losing/winning | NCIS

They haven't lost him.... but they haven't won, either. As he lays suffering, the crew struggles to find out anything about the monster that would do such a thing. But nothing. No steps taken in the right direction... The tension in the atmosphere suddenly becomes more choking, day by day, affecting everyone involved. With growing aggression and lack of sleep, the crew is desperate to solve the case before Dr. Mallard comes back. Would it be winning? No, they've already lost... but it will be something.
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(This is mainly an angsty Tate - KatexTony - fanfic, with the plot revolving around their interactions with each other and everyone else in the team once the atmosphere of the office is more desperate and hostile. If you don't like Tate, then don't read! This is set someplace in Season 2.)