#ncisla spec

[chrisodonline]

Finale Spec/Wishes, pt. 1

Not sure what else to call this. Also, this is mainly G related because, well, duh. It’s me. There would be other stuff for other characters, though some of that IS mentioned.

I just need to get some of this typed out so I stop thinking about it and risk just adding on. (Lolz. Me? Going on too long? LOLZ.) 

It’s a mix of “What I could see happening and either like/don’t mind and have accepted” with the occasional “This would be a DREAM come true.”

I have no idea who all would even be able to come back, either, but well. It’s early yet. 

Also, not formatted in any special way because there’s a lot of dialogue that’s not official dialogue so I’m not about to make this so many more paragraphs longer than it should be. 

Again, not a fic. Just rambling. 

Also, I am breaking it up because it is clearly going to be ridiculously long. Even for me. So this is just part 1. (For the two people who might read all of it.)

Stuff that would have to happen in the third to last episode:

There’s a case, sure, but who cares or pays attention to that.

The episode begins with Callen having set a date for the wedding and letting everyone know. Kensi gently points out most people send Save the Dates. So Callen starts writing the information on a post-it note, and Sam stops him. Tells him he needs to get some real invitations printed. G: “I think this is more personal, though.” Deeks: “I think those are actually Kensi’s post-its that made their way onto your desk.”

Callen promises to get something more professionally printed.

Penultimate episode:

More formal invites have been printed and people are starting to get them. Case stuff case stuff case stuff. Villain of the week is pretty icky and sociopathic, which makes Kensi and Deeks reflect on all the “monsters” they’ve had to deal with. Kensi says it’s hard, but she also is glad she gets to be one of the people to help get those monsters put away. Even if they don’t always stay put away. Deeks knows she’s talking about Kessler. He mentions the body stitchers and how being in the field makes you have to face the worst of it. Kensi agrees that’s definitely a drawback. She looks at him, again, and he’s clearly been thinking about something. She asks him what. He doesn’t want to share just yet, but she tells him there’s nothing he can say right now that’s worse than what they had to deal with today.

Deeks admits he’s been looking at opportunities at the base in San Diego. There has been some turnover since people are starting to retire, and, unlike people who retire from OSP, they actually will stay retired. Kensi, “Opportunities? Like what?” Deeks: “Well, keep in mind we’d be limited to really dealing with base matters or more behind-the-scenes analytical matters.” Kensi asks if he wants to leave LA and OSP. Deeks says he just wants them to look at it and consider it. Kensi could get a job instruction/training if something more up her alley is available right away. It would be steadier, even if in another town, but still a day trip from LA. Kensi says they’ll talk about it more later. Deeks, “I just don’t want to keep facing psychos and risk collecting more enemies that can hurt us. Our family.” Kensi reiterates they’ll talk about it.

Callen is arriving home, he greets Anna. Anna hands him a card that came for him in the mail. He opens it, and it’s a “Congratulations” card. Anna, “Someone must’ve gotten their invite. Who is it?” Callen’s confused, “Not sure.” He opens to the card to read it: “My dearest Callen, Imagine my surprise to learn that you’re getting married. Looking forward to the wedding and seeing you again. - Janiver”

Callen drops the card, and Anna asks what’s wrong. He just looks at her, freaked out. Episode ends.

Finale:

Kensi’s in the shooting range. Deeks comes in, asks how long she plans to stay in there. She’s gone through dozens of rounds already. And this was after she woke up early and did intense cardio. Kensi says she’s just doing what’s needed to stay good at her job. Deeks offers, “This wouldn’t have anything to do with Janvier’s card, would it?” Kensi keeps shooting. Deeks, “Or with what we talked about. Or with how that first thing I mentioned is making that second thing seem like something we should really be talking more about.” Kensi stops shooting.

Kensi says it’s just a reminder that Kessler is still out there, and if Janvier is a threat again, it would be a lot. The latter killed coworkers and was involved with getting Deeks tortured, and vowed to come back and hurt them all. She understands where he’s coming from. Deeks, “Well, that’s good.” Kensi, “No, it’s not good.” Deeks, “What’s the problem.” Kensi, “It’s bad because  you’re right.” Deeks, “I’m not sure how to take that.” Kensi, “I mean, I know you’re right. It makes sense. San Diego. I just wish you weren’t right.” Deeks, “Again, I love you, but I am not sure how I’m supposed to be taking this.” Kensi just looks at him, almost near tears, “I wish leaving OSP wasn’t the right thing to do. Because I don’t want to do it.” Deeks, “We don’t have to. We’re not even guaranteed spots. They might be iffier about spouses working together, so we may have to be--” Kensi, “No, that’s the thing, Deeks. We do have to.”

Sam is pacing near the door. Rountree and Fatima are at their desks. Fatima, “How long has he been pacing? Should we worry?” Rountree, “I don’t know. He’s not usually a pacer. He’s usually a ‘punching bag is my fidget toy’ guy.” Fatima nods. “Maybe you should go check on him.” Rountree just eyes her. Fatima, “Better you than me. Go.”

Rountree approaches Sam. He asks Sam if he’s okay. Sam just shakes his head. “It’s not okay. My partner is an idiot. And  he called when he was about half an hour out, so he should be here soon.” Rountree, “Are you worried something’s going to happen to him before he gets here, like with the Katya thing?” Sam just stops. He looks over at Rountree and stares. “Well now I am.” Rountree apologizes. “I’m sure he’s fine.” Sam just nods. “He better be fine. It’s gonna be a lot harder to yell at him if he’s injured or doesn’t make it here.” Rountree’s eyes widen, things just got awkward, and he slinks away. He looks at Fatima, “Tag, you’re it next time.” 

Callen walks through the door. Sam stares at him. Callen cracks, “Hi, honey. I’m home.” Sam just glares more. Callen sighs and starts walking. Sam doesn’t let him get far. “You shouldn’t have gone alone. It could’ve been a trap.” Callen shakes his head. “That’s exactly why I had to go alone. He always threatened to go after all of you first. If it was a trap, you would’ve been in more danger than I was.” Sam, “Then why not take someone he might not know, like the rookies over there.” Callen, “You really want to put them on his radar? No. It made sense I went alone. You’ll be happy to know, he is still very much locked up.”

Sam nods. “That’s good. Any idea how he found out?” Callen shakes his head, “None. He did claim that he just felt it in his heart. So maybe he just wanted to screw with my head.” Sam, “Right. It’s just mind games, G. He’s locked up. He’s not a threat. I told you this.” Callen notes that he probably still has connections, so we don’t really know that. “I’m not chancing it. I’ve already talked to Anna. We’re changing the wedding date.” Sam looks shocked, “You’re what?” Callen explains that they’re going to push it up and just have a smaller ceremony than planned, which he has no complaints about. He’s hoping sooner rather than later gives anyone who might have something planned less time to even find out when and where it’s moved to.  Sam asks when the wedding is. Callen explains they’re not sharing the exact date, time, and location until it’s much closer. Sam is super annoyed with this. Callen says, “Look, just keep the first full week next month really open. All I’m saying.” Sam, “That’s just weeks away.” Callen nods. 

[chrisodonline]

Finale Spec/Wishes, pt. 6

Okay, I lied. I didn't feel like scheduling in case it tempted me to go back and add things to it. So, just consider today with three posts making up for the days I missed.

Last part for reals. If you need a recap on what this is, visit any of the parts mentioned:

Pt 1 | Pt 2 | Pt 3 | Pt 4 | Pt 5

Cut to the beach. Callen and Hetty are arriving. Callen starts walking towards the beach when he sees some familiar figures…doing a choreographed dance. “Nell? Eric?” They both stop dancing and look over to him. Eric says, “Hey, Callen!” They walk over to him. It’s not lost on Callen that Hetty doesn’t seem surprised to see them, and they don’t seem surprised to see Hetty. But he’s so glad to see them, he gives them hugs. “What are you guys doing here?” Eric says, “What do you mean what are we doing here? We’re just hanging out at the sidewalk waiting on you.” Callen says, “No, I mean, here in general.” Nell says, “Well, Kensi called. Said there was a party we absolutely could not miss. Richie Rich and I hopped on a nice, private jet and here we are!” Eric nods. “Yes, to celebrate. I may have also paid for some things.” Callen says, “And you came dressed fancy, too.  Oh, wait. I should’ve stopped by the store to pick something up.” Nell grabs his arm and says, “I promise, you’re fine.” Eric’s cell goes off. He reads a text then tells Nell, “Okay, they’re ready.” Callen asks, “Ready for what?” 

They all walk closer to the beach. Callen is greeted by Sam, Kensi, Deeks, Fatima, Rountree, and Nate. He quickly notices they’re all dressed up. “What’s going on?” Eric chimes in, “Well, we were the distraction.” Everyone is grinning, and then Callen finally looks around behind him and realizes what’s going on. Deeks explains, “It’s exactly what you wanted. A wedding so top secret, not even the groom knows.” 

Callen is shocked. “I thought this was going to be an annual family celebration?” Kensi nods. “Oh, it is. It’s the year, it’s your wedding. One year, it might be Rosa’s graduation. Or Aiden’s wedding. Or…who knows?” Callen looks at Sam, who just shrugs and says, “I couldn’t stop them.” Deeks says, “Pssh, couldn’t stop us? Callen, my friend, I will give you three guesses as to who is responsible for all the origami crane decorations at the tables.” Callen continues, confused, “How did you do all this?” Kensi says, “Just a little quick planning. And we knew Hetty would show up, so we had an automatic officiant. Also, Nine Barnes made your cake. Some of the flowers may look like tiny guns but try not to overthink it. She was being kind of cheeky.” Callen asks, “Wait, where’s Anna?” Fatima says, “Don’t worry. She and Arkady are just waiting in place. It’s bad luck to see her before.”  Callen has yet another sudden realization. “Arkady. Wait, who’s going to watch Arkady? This is too much free range space for him.”

Everyone starts looking at each other. One of the things they didn’t plan. Nell offers up, “Um, well, how about Nate?” Everyone but Nate quickly agrees it should be Nate. He asks, “Why me?” Sam explains, “Well, you are an expert in human psychiatry.” Nate quickly replies, “Yes, human psychiatry. We still don’t know what exactly Arkady is.” Nell reaches up and pats him on the back. “You’ll be fine.” Sam looks over at Callen, “Come on. Let’s get you dressed real quick.”

Cut to: Callen standing at the altar, Sam and Deeks with him. Kensi and Nell are on the other side. Arkady walks Anna down the aisle. They exchange vows. They kiss. Cheers.

Cut to: later, the makeshift reception is going on. Callen and Anna are walking around, talking to people. They stop and chat with Kilbride who is having to duck out early to be on his way. Callen then looks over and sees the gang sitting and joking at a table. He takes a big sip of champagne from his glass. Anna asks him, “Are you okay?” He nods and mutters something about “Liquid courage.” He signals with a head nod to the table. Anna knows he wants to walk over there. 

Deeks is telling Kensi, “You know, maybe this is what we should be the Chip and Joanna Gaines of. Top secret weddings for federal agents.” Kensi says, “I don’t know how viable that would be.” Eric offers, “Look, if you need an investor.” Nell jump in, “Eric, this isn’t Shark Tank. I’ve told you about pretending that real life is just VC pitch after VC pitch.” Sam just shakes his head. “This was great, but maybe don’t quit your day jobs.” Deeks says, “Wait, Sam, you don’t want in? We could really use a fashion guy!”

Callen and Anna make their way over. Anna quickly tells everyone thank you, again. And they all congratulate them. Callen says, “Yes, I did want to say thank you, again.” Kensi interrupts, “It was nothing.” Deeks adds, “I wouldn’t say nothing.” Kensi concedes, “Fine it was something but something worth the something.” Callen smiles. He goes to say something, and it’s clearly a struggle. He looks down trying to psych himself into this. He starts, “I didn’t just want to thank you for this, though. I wanted to thank you for…everything. And I mean everything.” Deeks says, “We’ll miss you, too.” And Callen smiles but then shakes his head.

“This is hard for me to say.” He clears his throat. “But you should be brave with your whole heart.” He looks up at them, and says, “I always though I never knew who I was because I was missing things like my name, where I came from. But, even when I learned them, I still didn’t feel like they answered who I was. It took me a long time, probably too long, to realize that the part of me that was missing was a true family.” Deeks interrupts, “Grisha Callen, are you saying we complete you?” Callen just smirks. “I’m saying you are all a part of who I am. And thank you.” 

Nell jumps in, “You’re so close, Papa Bear.” Callen looks at her, confused. “What?” She continues, “You’re so close. You’re almost there. You can say it.” Callen looks at Sam, who quickly says, “Don’t look at me.” Deeks jumps in, “Tell us you love us.” Callen is shocked. “What? I think that’s implied…” They shake their heads. Kensi says, “You got this.” Eric adds, “Come on. Make this trip worthwhile.” Callen looks at Nate. “I think Nate would be the first to say that acts are really more important than words.” Nate comes back with, “But isn’t saying words that are hard a meaningful act in itself?” Rountree says, “You literally say it to Sam all the time. I’ve heard you say it to him at the shooting range or even when he hands you a pen.” Fatima adds, “Oh, that’s true.” Everyone is nodding.  

Callen looks over at Anna, who just smiles back him and squeezes his hand a little tighter. He takes a deep breath, looks at the table, and says, “Okay. Fine. I love you all.” Everyone cheers. Eric bursts out with, “I love you all, too!” Deeks says, “Hashtag same!” Everyone laughs. They’re hugging and laughing and exchanging “I love you’s” as the credits roll. 

[chrisodonline]

Finale Spec/Wishes, pt. 5

So it’s looking like this is actually going to be a six-parter. Oops. But it made sense to let this be its own post not just because it’s long, but, well, you’ll see. (You = 2 people following this.) As always, mostly unformatted liveblogging/recap style straight from my brain to the screen.

(I will probably try to finish the last part today but schedule for tomorrow to avoid being spammy.) 

Pt 1 | Pt 2 | Pt 3 | Pt 4

Cut to Friday/day of party.

The Mission is mostly dark. Callen is walking a group of important looking people down the stairs. One of them tells him, “So we’ll see you in DC next week.” Callen says, “Sounds good.” Important Looking Person says, “See you then, Mr. Callen.” Callen watches them walk out the door to The Mission, still adjusting to not hearing “Agent” before his name. He stands there processing things, then we see him look up to the side, registering a sound. Without turning around, Callen says, “I had a feeling you’d be showing up.” He turns around. “Do I even have to ask if you’ve heard the news?”

Hetty is sitting at her old desk, moving papers and typing something on a computer. She turns on a nearby lamp. “It would be extremely impolite of me not to make sure I cleaned things out for you.” Callen walks to the desk. He just stares down at her, not saying anything for a while. “You’re going to get off easy today.” 

Hetty plays dumb/innocent, “I beg your pardon?” Callen sits down. “You’re getting off easy. I am already going to be saying goodbye to two people next week. And I need to go to a party today and put on my best party face. All things considered, I’m actually glad to see you. So I won’t push you. Today. But where you’ve been, I do want to know. And you know I have more questions about the Drona Project. I deserve answers.” Hetty asks, “Answers about what? I think you’ve put the bigger pieces together. What else are you wanting?” Callen looks agitated. “Oh, let’s see, ‘why’ is a good one?” 

Hetty responds, “The past can get fuzzy. You of all people know that memories aren’t always clear.” Callen shoots her a look. Hetty continues, “Does the why even matter at this point?” Callen says, “The reasons matter. They matter to me. And that should matter to you.” Hetty says, “I didn’t do what you think I did. I didn’t know what you think I knew.” Callen quickly follows with, “Then what did you know?” 

Hetty sighs. “I knew that there was a program. A program to identify, test, and better prepare children with promise. I knew there were studies cited. It all seemed…promising. I knew that once the government classified people as assets, it would make sure they were protected. Any child selected had not only a chance in a promising career, but a better chance at being safe.” Hetty looks at Callen to see if he can see where she’s going. His expression hasn’t softened, though. He just asks, “And you didn’t question anything?” Hetty just says, “You’ve asked for the truth. I’m telling it. I knew if you kept moving around, it would be harder for the Comescus to find you. But I knew that couldn’t last forever. I only ever wanted was best for you.” She looks off. Takes a deep breath. And continues.

“After your first set of testing, I was told that you had promise with cognitive skills but there was concern you were too weak, too soft, to be anything they’d consider valuable. You were susceptible to bullying and showed no sign of being able to fight back. One of the doctors, though, said there was some promising training that could help you. I didn’t want you to grow up and become a victim for anything and anyone. I wanted you to be strong and not be taken advantage of. They weren’t going to take you at first, but I…insisted. It wasn’t until later on when you really started to act out at your foster homes that I started to question things. I pushed for more answers. And you know what I found. I felt so embarrassed I had missed it. After that, I made sure I never missed anything ever again. I made sure I always knew everything there was to know, no matter how I had to go about it. I also made sure that any potential ‘assets’ I wanted to keep safe and put on the right path were handled by me and me alone.”

Callen’s eyes are slightly tearing up. He looks off. He just sits there in silence. Hetty gives him a chance to ask any questions or make any comments. He doesn’t. She finally continues talking, “You see, Mr. Callen, you’ve been looking at this as something that ‘created’ you. Of where you came from and who you are. But it isn’t. It is much more where the Hetty Lange you know of came from.” 

Callen looks at her, “So that makes it okay?” Hetty says, “I can’t tell you that. The truth is always, in its most natural form, simply that. The truth. What we take from it or add to it exists in ourselves and not in the facts. I am only giving you the facts.” She turns back to the computer. “Before I came here, I did more digging. I found something that I didn’t think still existed. It took me a while and a favor or three, to get it digitized.” 

Callen asks, “What is it?” Hetty just says, “I wanted to find something to remind you of who you really are and where you really came from. Neither have to do with an experimental program.” Callen looks confused. Hetty says, “I’ll give you a few minutes, but remember we have to get to a party.” Hetty presses play on the computer. She walks away.

We hear static-y sounds. The audio is choppy. A man says, “Intake interview #31170. Please state your name for the record.” A woman replies, “Clara Callen.” Callen’s face drops. Interviewer asks, “Ms. Callen, you performed well in the pre-training. We understand your father was in OSS.” Clara says Yes. Interviewer then notes they also understand her mother is Romanian. There are concerns with Eastern European infiltration in government agencies. They ask her why she is truly wanting to join. Clara responds, “I promise, I have no ulterior motive. Whatever I can do to prove it to you, I will. I want to serve this country. I want to contribute. I think I can be an asset. I will walk up any hill you give me, even if it is just to prove my loyalty.” Interviewer, “You have a lot of conviction for a woman your age, Ms. Callen.” Clara responds, “Thank you. Not to worry you by speaking Romanian —“ the interview chuckles a little and so does Callen — “but my mother’s favorite phrase was 

‘A-ți lua inima în dinți:’ it literally translates to taking your heart in your teeth. It’s just a way of saying to be daring when you do something. She told me I shouldn’t just have courage, I should always make sure people know I have it. Be brave with your whole heart.” Callen mouths the last sentence as she says it, remembering it. The interview thanks Clara for her time and the recording ends. 

Callen starts crying, hands on his face, just like at the end of “Reznikov, N.”  He knows Hetty is still there. “I can hear her saying to us now. She used to say that all the time. I remember it now.” He looks down and tries to compose himself. “Thank you.” 

Hetty just says, “I figured it was the least I could do. Now take a minute. We’ll be late for the party.”

[chrisodonline]

Finale Spec/Wishes, pt. 3

Just in case you aren’t one of the two people who are actually following this, see part one and part two. Again, this is non-formatted liveblog/recap style version of my brain. 

Part 3 of ???

Farmer’s Market lady ran when Kensi and Deeks identified themselves, so she was immediately sus. They take her in. Have her in the boat shed. They grill her about Good Queen Bess. Farmer’s Market lady is like, “I have no idea what you’re talking about.” Kensi and Deeks explain that her booth has not been doing well — more people are wanting vegan-only choices, and others are tight on funds. You sell grass fed beef. Money problems = motive for chicken ransom. Deeks suggests, “Or maybe you wanted to score some money in an underground chicken fighting ring?” Farmer’s market lady is like, “There’s no such thing as a chicken fighting ring. Who would do that?” Deeks follows up with, “There’s a first time for everything. It would be like the GLOW version of cock fighting.” 

Farmer’s Market lady is still like, “And why would I expect to get money out of a chicken ransom?” Kensi offers, “Maybe you weren’t trying to get money. Maybe you were trying to get intel. To watch High Ranking Chicken Guy trip up.” Farmer’s Market lady, “What would I do with intel?” Kensi says sell it for the right place. This guy obviously has a weakness for his chicken. Good Queen Bess is his Lock Screen. Good Queen Bess has her own castle. A desperate man makes bad decisions. Kensi and Deeks just sit and look at her. Deeks adds, “You know we’re checking your phone logs now. Some odd numbers.” FM lady is like, “What’s odd about them?” Deeks explains, “4 of them were only in service for a few days each. Do your Farmer’s Market friends have a need for burner phones?” FM lady looks away. Kensi and Deeks stare more. FM lady is like, “Fine. Someone did call and offer me money to take Good Queen Bess. But I didn’t take her!” Kensi asks why didn’t she say something sooner — or report a possible chicken-napping to the authorities. FM Lady says she thought the person was half-joking. Deeks asks if this person gave a name. FM lady says no. And then when they realized she wouldn’t do it, they threatened her. Kensi is like, “Your life?” And FM Lady is like, “No. They were going to kill my cows. They’re my livelihood! And they were going to poison them and then make sure there is enough on social media to suggest I’ve been selling tainted meat. They’d ruin me!” Deeks says, “I guess that makes sense. I’d hate to see a bovine massacre. I hate to be the one to say it, though. Not sure Southern California is the best marketplace for beef.” 

FM lady starts crying suddenly, “It’s all I know! I moved here with my husband, but then he won a reality show and left me! We were supposed to be the Chip and Joanna Gaines of the Cattle World!” She continues crying. Kensi and Deeks step out of the room. Kensi says, “Well that seems like a dead end unless we can get more on those burners. This whole thing is kind of crazy, don’t you think?” Deeks says, “Tell me about it. No one will ever be the Chip and Joanna Gaines of anything other than Chip and Joanna Gaines.” Kensi just smirks at him. “So you don’t want to be the Chip and Joanna Gaines of our field?” Deeks, “Oh, oh. Ohhh. I love that you speak my language and know exactly what to say at all times. I’m going to remember this after work.” 

Kensi shoots him bedroom eyes, and they’re interrupted with the sound of someone clearing his throat. They turn and it’s Callen and Sam in Ops, staring at them. Kensi asks how long they’ve been listening. Callen replies, “Long enough to wonder if that makes us the Property Brothers.” Deeks just says, “I KNEW you loved those shows, man. I KNEW it.” Sam just shakes his head. “You all need to get out more.” On this, Kilbride enters Ops. “I believe we are in agreement on that, Agent Hanna. I would also suggest that you all need to get to solving this case more. I take it from the lack of arrests and lack of a chicken, our main lead did not pan out.” Callen says he’s right. They’ve hit a dead end. Kilbride says, “Well I hope you are able to revive that dead end because this is the Office of Special Projects, and I expect you all not to get stuck. Especially on this case.” Sam adds, “We always do, Admiral. We always do.” Kilbride nods and says, “Carry on.” Then leaves. Deeks asks, “Is it clear?” Callen and Sam say it is. Deeks says, “Do you guys ever feel like he uses whatever bugs Hetty had in Ops to perfectly time coming in to insult us?” 

Rountree and Fatima are with High Ranking Chicken Guy. They explain to him about the burner phone caller offering to pay for intel gotten from the chicken ransom. Does he know anyone, an enemy, who would benefit from info he had? Who also knows about Good Queen Bess? High Ranking Chicken Guy asks if they think she’s already dead. Rountree and Fatima explain that two things work in her favor: 1. she’s worth more as a ransom and 2. She’s a chicken, so she can’t identify her kidnappers to the cops. High Ranking Chicken Guy is like “Well there is This Criminal Guy we’ve been after for a while but could never get enough to bring him in. We’re closing in on him, but only a few people know what we have. I did hear that the fact that we’re close may have made it past the designated personnel.” Rountree and Fatima immediately phone this in. Callen and Sam thank them and pull up info. Sam wonders why High Ranking Guy didn’t mention this enemy when they first asked. Fatima hand waves it and says he seems so distraught. 

Kensi and Deeks go back into the room. “We have a video we want to show you.” They show FM lady a video from YouTube of a guy unboxing a shop vac. FM lady asks why they’re showing her this. “We just want to know if it means anything to you.” “Like what?” “If we tell you, that might influence you and you misremember.” “I don’t have that model of shop vac, I know that.” Kensi and Deeks just look at each other, debating on stopping the video. Then FM lady says, “Oh, wait. Do a quick jump back, so I can hear him say that again.” They do. “That’s it! That’s the voice!” 

Cut to Criminal Guy’s warehouse location — because that is a shady person’s base. Both duos are on the ground in their tiny ass vests ready to go in and take Criminal Guy down. If they didn’t have him on international drug smuggling, they’ll definitely have him on chicken napping and coercion with cow threats — which Deeks dubs “cow-ercion.”  They go in and take down Criminal Guy. Kensi asks, “Where’s Good Queen Bess?” Criminal Guy asks, “I don’t know. Maybe take a time machine and go to England in the past.” Deeks says, “First off. That’s not even a good joke. You kidnapped a chicken, and you can’t afford to look any lamer. Second, we know you have her. Where is she?” Callen contacts Rountree on comms, “You guys have any luck yet?” Rountree says, “No.” Fatima is also searching, “Is there anything that would make a chicken squawk so we can find her?” “Are you saying we go around bocking?”  Kensi says, “Maybe something to freak her out. Chickens don’t get quiet when they’re scared.” Deeks says, “Look at you, Wikipedia.” Fatima is like, “Oh, hey, I got it!” She starts tapping her phone and asks Rountree for his. She works on his and then holds up both. Rountree asks what she’s doing. Fatima says, “What we always do.” She plays the most blaring, annoying alarm sound on both phones at the same time, creating an echo and extending everywhere. Rountree covers up his ears quickly, and so do Kensi and Deeks. Callen and Sam do the same. Sam says, “You couldn’t have told us to cover our ears before in case it blasted through all the comms?” Fatima says, “Sorry, I-“ Then they hear it. They hear Good Queen Bess clucking loudly. Rountree looks over impressed. “How’d you think to do that?” Fatima simply says, “Like I said. What we always do. A little chaos A little shock and awe.” Deeks throws in, “Or bock and awe, in this case.” 

[chrisodonline]

Finale Spec/Wishes, pt. 2

For an explanation of what exactly this is, you can visit part one. Again, not really formatted because who has time? It’s really more like I’m recapping or liveblogging my brain.

This is part 2 of ?? (To think. I thought this would just be one post. LOLZ.)

Kensi and Deeks make their way to the bullpen. They notice Callen’s back. They welcome him back, and both seem a little off and distant. Sam asks if they’re okay, and they quickly reply that they are. They were just talking about some plans they were making, working through logistics, etc.

Callen tells them, “Well, just be sure not to make plans for the first full week of next month.” They both look surprised, “Well, actually, we’re not sure when we’ll be able to go through on these plans. So first week of next month is kind of up in the air.” Callen looks disappointed. “Oh. I was just talking to Sam about moving the wedding date up.” Deeks, “First off, you know the way you said that it makes it sound like you and Sam are getting married. Second, are you sure you want to move it up? Not that you should scheduled around us, but our next month or month and a half may be busy. Or not.” Sam asks what’s going on. Kensi and Deeks both say, “Just some personal stuff.” No one prods them further. Callen, “Um, let me talk to Anna.” He pulls out his phone and goes to walk off when Kilbride appears on the stairs. 

Kilbride bellows, “Agent Callen. My office now. The rest of you, get to Ops. There’s a case.”  Callen asks if he can make a phone call real quick. Kilbride quickly comes back with, “Unless that phone call is 9-1-1 because you are in the middle of a medical emergency, I would advise you not to make me wait and get to my office right now.”

Callen reaches Kilbride’s office. Kilbride invites him to sit down. Callen’s face says he’s registering this as big. Kilbride explains that his son has recently been diagnosed with a serious medical issue, and he plans to go and spend time with him — help take care of him — to just try and make up for some things. Callen says he’s sorry to hear that Kilbride’s son is sick, but Kilbride assures him that the prognosis is actually very good, but he’s overdue to be a caregiver. Hopefully even when his son is better, they can still stay connected. 

Kilbride says, “Obviously, I won’t be able to be here.” Callen nods. “You’re taking a leave of absence?” Kilbride explains, “Yes, a permanent one.” Callen is definitely registering this. Kilbride out. No sign of Hetty. Who would they send? Kilbride says, “I had a very long conversation with Director Vance. He doesn’t usually ask someone something again if they’ve said No once because it looks like begging. However, since your last no was over 10 years ago, he’s willing to give you another chance.”

Callen is surprised. “Director Vance wants to offer the job to me?” Kilbride nods. “I believe that’s what I just said.” “I guess I’m surprised you didn’t try to talk him into somebody else…Unless you did?” Kilbride just stares at Callen. “I’m the one who brought your name up.” This surprises Callen even more. Kilbride continues, “I know we haven’t always agreed on things, and I would personally like weekly therapy to be a contingency for you in this job offer, but that part isn’t my decision to make. You realize you would’ve been gone a long time ago if I wanted you gone. I think this team can be better. I think the spirit of Hetty will always linger over, and that isn’t completely horrible. But I also can’t have Hetty 2.0. The higher brass doesn’t want that either. I only ever wanted you to see that Hetty wasn’t always right, and you can’t run this place as if she were.”

Callen nods. “When do you need a decision?” Kilbride explains, “I understand you would want to take a day.” Callen nods again. Kilbride adds, “This may not be field work, but don’t think you’re just pushing papers all day. Steadier workdays, though.” Callen says, “You’re not exactly selling me on it.” Kilbride finishes, “I didn’t tell you about my son for pity. I don’t want teddy bears with balloons, or fruit baskets, or some special message on TikTok. I want to remind you to think about the next 5, 10, 15 years. Things are going to be a lot different when you have someone waiting at home for you.” Callen notes, “I’ve had someone waiting for a while now.” Kilbride buttons with, “When you make a vow, though, it’s different. We’re taught to be honorable. Nothing less honorable than a broken promise.”

In Ops:

Case stuff. Nothing difficult. Y’all know it’s gotta be solved in like 15-20 minutes of screen time. I don’t know. Some high ranking official is beside himself because someone stole his prized chicken. (Do you know how much eggs are these days? Talk about a High Value Target!) Let’s make that the placeholder.

Anyway, Callen enters, and they catch him up briefly. Callen nods and says, “Okay, we should go talk to some people. Do we like anybody for this?” Deeks asks if they can list Wiley E. Coyote as a suspect. Callen explains that they cannot. Deeks ask if they can list a general coyote as a suspect. Callen agrees that’s a possibility, but they wouldn’t be working this case if the TPTB didn’t think it was relevant or a case with merit. (LOL.) Everyone else is kind of suspicious of this number that has called the high ranking person a dozen times in a week, but doesn’t appear to be a main contact. Someone new and aggressive if you go by call logs alone. They checked the number, and it belongs to a lady who has a booth at the farmer’s market. Highly sus. Callen sends Kensi and Deeks to interview Farmer’s Market lady. Fatima and Rountree are supposed to go look at the crime scene. Callen says he and Sam will stay back. Everyone looks a little surprised by this, but they all go their ways.

Sam looks at Callen, also a little confused. Callen never volunteers for Ops. Callen just looks at him and says they need to talk. Callen grabs an ear piece and tablet then asks Sam to step just outside the door. It’s a private conversation, but he’ll hold onto the devices in case they go off and need to be addressed. Callen tells Sam Kilbride offered him the job. “And I wanted to get your opinion on—“ Sam cuts him off. He tells G flat out, it’s time he took it. Think about Anna. Just because he takes the job it doesn’t magically mean he thinks Hetty is never coming back. It just means he’s ready. They can do what they planned. He would be ridiculous not to take it. Callen says, “Actually, I wanted you to be the first person to know that I said Yes. But good to know you agree.” Sam excitedly says, “You said yes? You really did? The job. The office. The meetings. The bureaucracy. Everything?” “I didn’t say yes to the office. I don’t want that thing. I plan to talk to Vance about turning it into a Conference Room. Apparently the main HQ has one. Somewhere. We probably should, too. I figured I’d work downstairs or in Ops when needed. Closer to the team.” Sam asks what Callen needed his opinion on then. Callen says, “Don’t take it the wrong way. I was going to ask Kensi to be team leader. I just think —“ Sam interrupts, “She’s more than earned it. It’ll be a pay bump for her, which is good for her family. I’m happy to back her up. I won’t be here forever. Besides, my dad’s going to need more and more care. It makes sense, since I might need even more time off.” Callen notes that Sam’s new boss is pretty understanding about those things. “‘My new boss.’ I think you liked saying that a little too much.” Callen just smirks. Sam adds on, “You know what I just realized? You’re going to have to wear a suit every day.” Callen looks annoyed. “Don’t worry. We can go shopping. And I promised I’d introduce you to my tailor.”

The other partners are doing the investigation thing. We see Kensi and Deeks talking, and Deeks admits he’s more than just looked at job openings. He’s made actual calls. Put feelers out. Someone might be calling soon. He asks if Kensi is still in. She says she is. He points out she may have her own contacts that could help. They should think of specific questions and positions to talk to people about.  Fatima and Rountree are at the crime scene, looking for any extra clues. They’re in the chicken coop, which for some reason is decorated like a castle. “This guy really loved his chicken.” Fatima points out, “He did name her Good Queen Bess.” They talk about why a chicken could be so important, and why its loss would be a matter of national security. They are at a loss. “Do you think it’s just a case of someone getting more eccentric when they’re older?” Rountree, “I don’t know. Why? Are you worried you’ll become eccentric?” Fatima shrugs and says maybe. Rountree says, “I’m imagining Old Lady Fatima now.” “Stop!” “She has cars she never drives but she loves dressing them up like animals. She has a cat car, and a dog car, and—“ “Oh, well how about Old Man Tree? He likes to keep the wrong holiday decorations up just to make a point. [imitating old craggy voice] It’s the principle of the thing!”  High Ranking Chicken guy walks up. They pull themselves together. And ask if he could think of anything from the last week or so that might help, even if it just seemed odd at the time. Anything could be something. He says, “No, not really.” Beat. “Wait, there was something.” He shares something that sounds pretty dang important, and Fatima and Rountree look at each other to let us know it’s super important. Whatever it is. I can’t think of everything here.

[chrisodonline]

Finale Spec/Wishes, pt. 4

Just in case you aren’t one of the two people who are actually following this, see part one , part two, and part three. Again, this is non-formatted liveblog/recap style version of my brain. 

Kensi, Deeks, Fatima, and Rountree are all back at the boathouse. They’re giving High Ranking Official Guy Good Queen Bess. He holds her tight, and says, “I can’t thank you all enough. If there’s ever anything I can help you with, just let me know.” Kensi assures him they were just doing their jobs. Fatima comments, “Good Queen Bess seems…like a very special girl.” High Ranking Official Guy is like, “The most special girl.” They all smile. High Ranking Official Guy says, “I was worried when we moved out of San Diego, that she’d have trouble adopting to LA. Especially without Stephen. But she hasn’t.” 

Kensi and Deeks look at each other. Deeks asks, “You worked in San Diego?” High Ranking Guy is like, “Of course. These days I do more consulting than anything else. After Stephen passed away, I wanted at least somewhat of a change. Everyone understood. He loved Good Queen Bess as much as I did.” Kensi says they’re all sorry to hear about his loss. High Ranking Official Guy — whose name I still haven’t picked even though I named his chicken and husband — appreciates it. High Ranking Official Guy says he should be heading on out, but he does want to know if they ever found the person who took Good Queen Bess directly. Rountree explains that Criminal Guy paid off a drifter whose name was probably not really Smitty Jones MacGuffin, and he’s probably taken his large sum of money and run off somewhere. However, they won’t give up. They’ve got a description out to all agencies. Deeks adds, “Unfortunately, cases like this one can’t be completely wrapped up in a day.”

High Ranking Official Gauy nods. Kensi asks him to hang back a minute. She has some questions. He agrees. Kensi tells Fatima and Rountree to go on ahead of them, they’ll be to the bullpen shortly. Fatima reminds her Callen wanted to see all of them, and they can wait. Kensi shakes her head and says, “It’ll make you two look really good if you beat us there.” Deeks winks. Fatima and Rountree just shrug and leave.

Cut to Kensi and Deeks arriving to the bullpen. Callen, Sam, Fatima, and Rountree are all standing around waiting for them. Deeks asks, “Why is it so quiet? I feel like I should be nervous.” Sam replies, “Most rooms are quiet until you get there. Don’t be so paranoid.” Fatima interjects, “We were just trying to convey to Callen and Sam just how much High Ranking Official Guy loves Good Queen Bess. I guess I don’t see the purpose of a pet chicken. They’re not affectionate like dogs, or as entertaining as cats. Or as soothing as fish.” Sam explains, “Some people are okay with one-sided affection, but I’m sure a chicken shows her affection in her own way. You just have to look for it. And there is something to be said for a hilarious but endearing creature who is both needy and vulnerable but convinced they’re completely tough and independent.” Kensi notes, “That’s very insightful of you, Sam.” Sam nods. “That’s the basis of my relationship with Callen.” 

Callen looks over at him, annoyed. “That wasn’t funny two hours ago, and it’s still not funny.” Deeks adds, “It’s a little funny.” Callen shoots him a look and just sighs. “Moving on. I wanted to call you all here to first off, say, Good Job today.” Everyone nods and smiles, appreciating the compliment. “I also wanted to break the news to you that Kilbride is leaving. His son needs some help, and he wants to be there for him.” Everyone is shocked. Rountree is the first to speak and ask, “Wait, what does that mean? Permanently? Are they sending somebody else?” Callen says, “All good questions.” And Deeks interjects, “I think another good question is, ‘Do they know our track record?’” Callen laughs. “I think they do…which is probably why the higher ups were more than willing to offer it to me.” Another shock, seen on everyone’s faces. Fatima quickly asks, “Did you take it? Are you the new Ops Manager?” They all stare at him, relieved Fatima was willing to be the first one to blurt it out. Callen nods. “I am.”

Everyone congratulates him. And there is hugging (yay). Callen says they’re dismissed for the day. He just wanted to let them know. He tells them good night. He turns to Kensi at her desk near his, and quietly says, “Hey, Kens, can I talk to you for a minute.” Kensi nods. They go off. Sam lets Fatima and Rountree know they don’t have to stay, they can go. Fatima and Rountree walk off. Rountree mentions wanting to get dinner. “Definitely nothing with poultry. Or eggs.” 

Callen and Kensi are off somewhere. He tells her, “Kensi, you know that if I’m Ops Manager, that means my current job is open, right?” Kensi nods. “I already let Sam know. I want you to have it.” Kensi face drops. “Oh, Callen. I didn’t want to say anything until we had something for sure, but Deeks and I are looking at moving.” “Moving?” Kensi nods. “To San Diego — work on the naval base there. Still room for excitement. And challenges. But steadier schedule — steadier presence. We’ve learned a lot with Rosa, and we were hoping to look into trying to get Pilar. Plus, things would be…safer.” Callen nods. “Less monsters like body stitchers you’d run into.” Kensi gives him a sad smile. “I’m sorry. It means so much that you’d ask me. And if things were different —“ Callen assures her, “It’s okay. I understand. I’m surprised we managed to hold onto you and Deeks for so long, just in general.” Kensi puts her arm around his back. “You sure you’re okay?” Callen nods. “Of course. I mean, I won’t be happy to see you go, but I will be happy for both of you if this is what you want. We’ve at least got you guys for a few weeks or more, right? Until you find a spot?” Kensi’s face drops again. “Actually, we talked to the guy from today. He’s got really good connections, plus the ones we already have, and — we could know something in the next few days.” Callen just nods silently. 

Back in the bullpen, we see the simultaneous conversation Sam was having with Deeks. Deeks asks Sam, “So, what’s that about? Wedding stuff?” Sam shakes his head. “Something else. Work related.” Deeks nods. “Vague. Cool.” He pauses. “Speaking of work stuff, I’m sure Kensi is biting the bullet and breaking it to Callen now…” Sam looks over at him, confused. “We’re looking at going to the base in San Diego. Getting jobs with better schedules. You understand.” Sam says, “Wow. That’s big.” Deeks nods. “We’ve already started conversations, and it looks like it might be sooner than we thought. We want to make sure we get to make Callen’s wedding, though. He and Anna didn’t manage to pick another new date yet?” Sam shakes his head. “I know sooner rather than later. I told him not to rush, but he’s worried. Do you know how long it took me to convince him to pick a date without Hetty back?” Deeks offers, “You should’ve just told him that if he wants her to show up, he should just pick a date. She’ll make an entrance.” Sam says, “That’s exactly what I told him! It still took a while. Now, though, he’s gone in the complete opposite direction. It’s like he overcorrects in the most extreme way possible. And he is still not wanting to give out the actual date until it’s almost time. Wants it to be even more top secret.” Deeks just nods. “That’s some pet chicken you got there.”

Callen and Kensi return to the bullpen. Deeks says, “You told him?” Kensi says, “I did. Did you tell him?” Deeks nods. Callen says, “Well, this has been a surprisingly exciting day considering our case was a missing chicken.” Deeks says, “Not to be that guy, but you guys realize this is one of the last times we’re all standing around our desks with each other, right?” Everyone just looks down, sad. They all stand in silence for a couple beats. Kensi then says excitedly, “Oh, I have a great idea!” What about, end of this week, we all go back to the beach and have another celebration?” Callen asks, “A celebration for what?” Kensi adds, “More of a party. A celebration for family. We turn it into a tradition. Make it an annual thing.” Sam says, “That’s a good idea.” Callen says, “I’m in.” Deeks says, “That’s my ladybird. A beautiful genius.” 

Callen adds, “Can we make it Friday?” Kensi says, “Sure, I mean, we haven’t planned anything yet. I was thinking Saturday or Sunday, but Friday is fine if you want Friday.” Callen says, “Thank you. I’m assuming there will be alcohol? I’ve got meetings all day, and I’m going to need a drink or two.” Everyone smiles and laughs.

[chrisodonline]

Okay, and even next week’s looks good...

Dare I get excited? Ahhh, Callen is with Rountree and not by himself like I thought he might be. 

I’m guessing they had to remove the Nell keeps Callen in the dark think because it’s a “twist” or...it comes up in the episode right after that has some of the same cast (Anna/Joelle). And is a Bartels episode. So I’m reasonably certain the mini-arc payoff will be good, or at least handled well.

[chrisodonline]

So... if not the DOJ Lady and her peeps... who's following Callen?

Is it cheating to use the press releases and BTS info...I hope not!

We know we’ve got two eps with Anna and Joelle coming up, plus other Russians, which Callen finds when he follows who’s telling him. (Hetty’s cryptic message was mentioned, and I feel like the C in it might refer to Callen.)

If Nell is keeping him in the dark about the team’s search for Katya, which they took out, that might be tied to the third ep. 

So, if he follows someone and it leads him to a ton of Russians, including Anna, I’d say some Russians...who are probably tied to the CIA.  And they’re probably tailing Callen to keep an eye on him on behalf of Anna/Joelle/whoever is running this and make sure he’s not being hurt and hunted down by Katya or any other baddies related to the case. Annoying questions/mysteries always seem to be done in “Callen’s best interest” after all. 

I’m sure we’ll get more info this week via sneaks and pics (hopefully < because I like the jacket he’s wearing in the press release). 

[chrisodonline]

It looks like a follow-up tonight with G/Finn, which is not something a mind in theory -- and enjoyed their scenes.  (The actor is definitely an issue, though.)

That being said, the other main G/someone follow-up we’ve actually had this season was with Joelle/Beth/Jane/Not Dead-y Betty.

People I would have liked to see updates with for G before the above:

His Dad(?!!?!?!?!)

Sam’s Kids

Alex/Jake

Arkady

Nate

Jennifer Kim (Thought it looks like I’ll get my wish on that one?)

But that’s just me.