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Previous part of Seek and Destroy.

***

Chapter 11

Trent walked back into the house. "There was a cleaning crew taking care of a dead body."

"Rachel?" Danny whispered no matter what he had loved her once.

"No, a Stanley Edwards, I 'interviewed' one of the cleaners and he'd overheard parts of a conversation. It seems Mrs Edwards is the one that killed him. She was also going to leave the island."

"I'll call Chin and Kono to get the word out and have her picked up. They'll also check the different ways to leave the island if she has already left." Steve glanced over at his partner knowing how hard it must have hit him.

"She'll need a new identity." Tony added.

"Why didn't I see this? How many men have fallen for her act and did what she wanted." Danny couldn't believe how much of an idiot he was.

"You didn't know and haven't done anything like that at her request." Trent waited for the other man. "It's clear you have a strong personality." He ignored Steve choking and Danny hitting him on his stomach. "You're an honourable man."

"I'm glad the guide thing didn't happen earlier. She would've killed you and I would never feel whole. I hate to think what would've happened to me if I'd stayed with Catherine." Steve felt sick at the thought of never meeting his partner.

"I do remember I was starting to wonder if Rachel loved me and she started to act strangely. It was just a niggling feeling; it wasn't long after that she became pregnant. I hate that she used me, but I did get Gracie and she is something I will never regret."

"Do well tell Fornell, he knows there's something going on with Sacks. If anything happens he'll come to me." Gibbs looked around. "He might be a fed, but he's a good guy."

"We need to deal with Sacks; well I need to deal with him." Kort smirked maliciously.

XXXXX

Sacks had excused himself again and then disappeared around the corner. Fornell stood and walked closer so he could be heard but not seen. One thing about the younger man his arrogance made him think he was better than he was which meant he made so many mistakes.

"Rachel, you must carry on with our work. Find others to help you capture or dispose of sentinel and guides. I'm sure it won't take long before you find another man to 'aid' you. Good hunting."

Fornell moved back to his seat and waited. What the fuck was going on? Who was the Rachel person? Who or what were sentinel and guides? Lastly why did he think Gibbs and DiNozzo were involved in this?

XXXXX

"Chin says that Rachel has already left the island and used as fake ID." Steve repeated.

"I'm glad we caught them up, they're ohana, and we really should've done it earlier." Danny sighed. "So much has changed; I don't know what to think."

"Just concentrate on the good things in your life, Gracie, Chin, Kono and me."

"Okay, I'll give you the others, but Steve you are nothing but a pain in my ass." Danny saw the look on his sentinel's face. "Don't say a word, you animal."

Chin looked over at Kono as she spoke.

"How's Danny?"

"Coping, it'll hit him more when everything has settled down. Let's find out what Agent Ron Sacks has been up to while he's been on our lovely island."

She smirked at her cousin. "We're chasing an FBI agent, working here is never boring."

"Tell me about it." His fingers flew over their computer table.

XXXXX

Sacks sat in HPD and flicked through a folder. Fornell opposite him was doing the same thing. The elder agent managed to keep his mind on the case, he didn't want to make any errors and miss the chance to find the killer of a fellow agent.

"I don't think there's a conn-." Just then his cell went off, he grabbed it and stood. "Excuse me, I need to take this."

"Sure." Fornell smiled, put down the file. As soon as he saw his partner duck around the corner. He moved so he could hear what was being said. It was right by the coffee machine, which he desperately needed.

"Don't push too hard, Gibbs will notice when they get back. DiNozzo's an idiot, how he managed to get into NCIS let alone to the SFA I will never know. It could be the sentinel and guide thing, or it could be because he's fucking his second in command."

Fornell felt angry on behalf of his friend. Gibbs maybe a bastard, but he wouldn't abuse his position like that. There was that sentinel and guide thing. He looked around and noticed one of the HPD officers glance over as he also heard the conversation.

"Duke isn't it?" He waited for the man to nod. "You know something about sentinel and guides, don't you?"

"Just stories that my grandmother told me."

"I'd like to hear them, if you don't mind telling me."

"I'm going to lunch are you coming?" Sacks called as he reappeared.

"Not yet there are a few things I want to check out first."

"I still don't think there is a link, but if you find anything, call. I'll be in my room."

"Okay." Fornell waited and the turned to Duke. "Well?"

"Very well, I'll tell you over lunch. I'll take you to the place with the best food on the island. Let's go."

XXXXX

"I hope they're okay." Abby bit at one of her nails.

"They'll call as soon as they can. Let's do what we can to make their homecoming more comfortable." They'd received a list of sentinel friendly things, so they could clean Gibbs and DiNozzo's places, as much as they could anyway.

XXXXX

Fornell started to eat and moan in appreciation.

Duke laughed. "Best food you'll ever taste."

"This is amazing, so…"

"Remember it is just stories that I was told growing up."

"I understand, but I'd like to hear anyway."

XXXXX

Steve settled more into his bed and stretched his arm so it not only covered Gracie, but reached Danny. It had been hard on the little girl, her mother had just left and her step father was dead. They left it out that Rachel was the suspect for the murder of her second husband.

"I love you Danno, I love you Uncle Steve." She mumbled sleepily.

"We love you too." Danny replied. In this bed at the moment he felt at peace. The outside world didn't exist and the people he loved most were here with him. Just for this moment he could relax.

"Go to sleep Danny, I'll keep watch out." He knew that there was still a concern; people were after sentinel and guides.

"Okay." With that his eyes closed and he drifted off knowing that they were safe.

Steve smiled dopily as he glanced over at father and daughter. He made a promise and it was one he would keep, not just for tonight.

XXXXX

Gibbs opened his hotel room door and glared. "What do you want?"

Fornell pushed past him and into the room. "DiNozzo," he greeted the younger man who'd been watching the television.

"I asked you what the hell do you want." He repeated.

"Do the words sentinel and guide mean anything to you? Look you can trust me and Sacks is involved in this, whatever 'this' is. If you don't tell me I'm going to go around talking and asking random people. You know I'm not going to stop and how long before I ask the wrong person?"

"You're a pain in my ass Tobias."

"I feel the same about you Jethro. I know the stories about sentinel and guides, the prophecy that one day they would return."

"How the hell did you find that out?" DiNozzo asked.

"Sacks wasn't as careful as he should've been."

"I better his mother said that when she found out she was pregnant with him."

"Tony." Gibbs warned, but all three men chuckled.

"He's been acting suspiciously, secret calls that kind of thing. I overheard a few of them and there was an officer at HPD who turned as soon as sentinel and guides were mentioned. I got him to tell me what he knew, he did and here I am."

"Fine." Gibbs knew it was best to tell him everything. "I'm a sentinel and Tony is my guide." He was only going to mention the two of them, but would warn the others.

"Is that why DiNozzo follows and pants after you like a cat in heat?"

"Hey, I don't act like that."

"So that must mean the prophecy is true? So how did you two find out about this? Also I don't need to know about you jumping each other."

XXXXX

Rachel put the 'do not disturb' sign on the door. As soon as it was closed and locked, she leaned back against it and took a deep breath. She was safe for the moment. She walked into the room and placed the case on the bed, and on the bedside table was a file. It was the one Ron mentioned. It was her next target and it was time for her to rest before she started. Rachel knew that she might have to take care of Danny as he would never give up. It would also push Steve McGarrett into their hands; he would lead a long guideless life doing what they wanted.

XXXXX

Rachel ran her hand through her hair and started to walk until she bumped into another person. "I'm so sorry I wasn't looking where I was going. I'm visiting and think I'm uhh kind of lost."

"That's okay, where were you looking for? Is there anything else I can do to help?"

"Oh thank you, I'd appreciate that, where are my manners I'm Emma Trelayne."

"Hi, Ms Trelayne, I'm Tim McGee."

"Please call me Emma."

"I'm Tim." McGee reached and took her hand and shook it carefully as he stared into her eyes.

***

Chapter 12

Tim hummed as he sat down at his desk.

"You are happy today, what's happening?" Ziva queried.

"Nothing." He beamed.

"McGee, do not make me force you."

"A woman; her name is Emma and she has the loveliest accent."

"Oh, and where is this Emma from?" Ziva no longer cared as it had nothing to do with her.

"England." His eyes glazed over as he thought of her.

"Is there anything from Gibbs or Tony?" No answer. "McGee." Nothing. "McGEE!"

"What?" He jumped at his name.

"Any news on Gibbs or Tony?"

"No, I guess they've been busy." He muttered.

"I should've been the one with him." Ziva noticed McGee frown at her.

XXXXX

Danny and Tony glared at Blair.

"He's having way too much fun with this," Tony growled.

"You think you it's bad as guides, you're not the one tasting this crap or listening to conversations that are so mind-numbingly boring." Steve bemoaned.

"Oh, right not enough explosions or gunfights for you," Danny smirked at the look he received in return.

"I'm finding this fascinating. I'll talk to Mr Sandburg later to see what more can be done." Max jotted down some more notes. He found the link between guides and sentinels intriguing. Where it had a sexual element between Commander McGarrett and Detective Williams, also the same between the two NCIS agents. There wasn't anything romantic between him and Joseph. It was platonic but was still beyond anything he'd ever experienced.

XXXXX

"Agent Vance?" Blair walked over, his hand out. "I'm Blair Sandburg, this is Jim Ellison.

"This is my wife Jackie, our daughter is in with our son. A nurse Monroe is with them."

"She's a great nurse and knows to keep an eye on them while we talk. Please come with us."

Jackie glanced over at her husband; she was willing to try anything to help Jared, well within reason.

"You both understand about sentinels." Blair waited for them to nod. "The room is sentinel friendly, here's a list of things you can use which will make things easier on him."

"Thank you." Jackie took the piece of paper.

"What we're going to do is use two senses at once to start. We hope it will bring him out. His senses are overstimulated and if he focuses on one sense he can zone out." Jim explained.

"How did you learn all this?" Leon wanted to find out how this man knew all this.

"I'm a sentinel and Blair saved me. He's also my guide. They help us control our senses and can bring us out of these zone outs."

"How do we find a guide?" Leon demanded. "Sorry, I didn't mean it to come out like that."

"No need to apologise, at the moment we have no idea how guides are chosen. Myself, Tony, Danny and Max will all work with your son. We're hoping another guide will help." The sentinels weren't thrilled, but understood and Jared was only a kid.

"We appreciate everything you're trying to do." Jackie was still afraid to hope her son would improve.

XXXXX

"Yes sir. I'll do what I can." Gibbs sighed.

"What?" Tony asked as soon as he lover was off the call, they were in the hotel room resting.

"SecNav wants me to call Jenny."

"Why?"

"He's hoping I can get her to come here without asking and she will make a pass and say something which can be used against her. I guess they need more evidence." Gibbs smirked.

"Your smirk is a turn-on, who am I kidding everything about you is."

"How do you think she would react knowing you were in my room 'relaxing'? She's going to read more into anything I say."

"The director would be jealous, afterwards can I jump you?"

"Like I could refuse my guide."

Tony smiled and then frowned. "Hang on; you do all the time."

Gibbs laughed and dialled.

XXXXX

"Jethro," Jenny whispered sexily.

"I thought I would update you. We hadn't found out who took Tony or Danny yet."

Her jealousy would be her downfall.

"How long will you be and what shall I order from room service?" Tony called out.

Gibbs looked over at him and smiled. "Hold on a minute." He put the phone on mute and waited for a few minutes. When he thought it had been long enough he hit the mute button again so she could hear them. "Sorry, about...what...I'm working and trying to find out what happened to DiNozzo remember." He leaned back and let her complain. Tony moved so he sat next to him and ran his hands through silky silver strands.

XXXXX

Shepard glared at her phone, they were getting too close and she couldn't allow that. There was enough information she had on people to be able to keep her job if she went over to Hawaii. Jethro would see how they were meant to be together, he was being stubborn and he would also drop the harassment charge.

The door opened and in walked Cynthia. "Director, I have your mail."

"Thank you, can you please cancel my meetings and any appointments over the next week. I'll let you know when I have a definite time when I'm going to return. Please tell people there's an emergency."

"Of course." Cynthia knew she had to tell Agent Gibbs.

XXXXX

"Leon, she's on her way," Gibbs explained. "We've got everything set up." With that, he put his cell down.

"So, are you ready to be seduced?" Tony laughed.

"I want her to leave me alone."

"Jethro, you're not an easy man to get over."

"Well, that's not something you'll ever know. You're not getting rid of me." Gibbs pulled Tony into a quick kiss; they didn't have time for more.

XXXXX

"Where are you going Danno?"

"I'm going to visit a sick boy and talk to him."

"Can I come?"

He smiled at her hopeful face. "I think that sounds like a wonderful idea."

"Cool." She turned and ran off to grab her shoes.

No matter what happened with Rachel he would always be thankful for his daughter. It was the one thought that kept him going and stopped him from hunting his ex-wife.

XXXXX

"Hi Jackie, Leon, this is my daughter Grace. Gracie this is Mr and Mrs Vance, they're Jared's parents."

"Hi, Mr and Mrs Vance, I've come with Danno to read to Jared?"

"It's a wonderful idea." Jackie smiled at her. "Why don't you go in and start."

"Danno?"

"Go ahead." Danny watched her walk over to the room which was pointed out.

"Our daughter is asleep, Max and Joseph are babysitting. Could we introduce Grace to her?" Jackie asked.

"Of course."

"Danno!" Grace yelled.

The three adults glanced at each other before running into the room.

"What's...?" Danny's voice faded as he saw Jared awake and aware. "What happened?"

Grace went to walk away but Jared held her hand a little tighter. "Danno?"

"Tell us what happened, Gracie."

Leon and Jackie want to rush and hug him, but they needed to know and give him a little time, a lot of adjustments would be needed.

"I started to read like I promised. I then reached out and took his hand, and I carried on with the story. Then he squeezed my hand and his eyes were open."

Danny couldn't believe it, his daughter was Jared's guide.

***

Chapter 13

Gibbs sighed; it would be over soon and pulled the door open.

"Director Shepard, what are you doing here?"

She pushed past him and walked into the room; he followed and waited for her to start the conversation.

"Call me Jenny when we're like this. We've been playing around too much and our relationship should move forward." She stroked her nails down his chest.

Gibbs took hold of her wrist and stepped back. "There is no relationship between us except a work one."

"Jethro, don't push me away because of fear. You want me."

"I don't want you."

She needed to make him remember Paris. "Your team, especially Agent DiNozzo clouds your mind with lies. Can't you see how they're pushing us apart? I don't like their influence. The team will separate if you aren't in control."

"Are you telling me if I start a romantic relationship with you that you won't split my team up?"

"I would feel happier." Jenny moved to kiss him.

Once more he stepped back. "That's sexual harassment."

"It's not harassment if you want me."

"I keep telling you I have no interest in a relationship with you." He replied getting angrier.

"Jethro, you don't want work to become difficult for you and your team do you? If you do things my way, do as I want and you'll be fine. You'll enjoy the sex."

Before she could say or do anything the door opened and in walked Vance followed by the younger agent.

"Did you get everything you need?"

"Yes, thank you Gibbs. Director Shepard, SecNav wants to talk to you in Washington." Vance ordered.

"You set me up." She spat at the man she wanted.

"This is your fault, you wouldn't take no for an answer. If you had none of this would've happened," DiNozzo argued.

"You've stolen him from me." Before she could reach out and grab him, Vance pulled her away.

Gibbs stepped forward to protect his guide.

"I'll talk to you both later." With that Vance pulled Shepard with him out of the room.

"I can protect myself, Jethro. I'm a trained federal agent and all." DiNozzo sighed

"I can't help it."

"Well, that is going to make work a little more difficult."

"I'll try to tone things down."

"I know you will, and whatever happens we'll deal with everything together."

XXXXX

"Are you sure you want to be the director?" Jarvis asked.

Tom Morrow smiled. "This is the right time." He needed to help protect sentinels and guides, which was the reason he moved to Homeland. He would do everything he could to keep Gibbs and DiNozzo safe.

XXXXX

"So what's it like being an agent?" Rachel tried to sound interested.

"Busy, but worthwhile," McGee answered.

"I bet it is how do you make time for friends and romance?"

"I don't date a lot, but I make time for someone special." A radiant smile on his face. "It helps to have friends where you work. They understand how difficult things can get."

"You told me about Gibbs, DiNozzo and Ziva, right?" She waited for him to nod. "Please, tell me more about them."

He's so happy to meet someone who understood how much time his job took. Emma wanted to know about his work colleagues, his friends. She really liked him.

XXXXX

Days had passed and Abby grinned at the photo that Tim had sent her. She had been on at him since she'd found out he was seeing someone. Now, she got to put a face to the name.

"Why aren't they back?" Ziva complained.

"They need to find out what happened to Tony and his friend." Abby typed a message and sent the photo.

"There is something going on and I will find out what it is."

"You're imaging things." Abby hoped that she would give this up.

XXXXX

Tony paled at the photo Abby had sent. "Holy fuck."

"What is it?" Gibbs asked straight away.

"Abby sent me a photo of the woman McGee is seeing."

"So..."

"Take a look."

Gibbs grabbed the cell and looked. "Isn't that..."

"Rachel Edwards, yes it is. So she's with McGee because of us."

"We'll do everything we can to keep him safe." As much as he wanted to protect his friends, his first priority would always be Tony. "We'll call the others and then I'll call Balboa. She's under suspicion for murder; we can spin it that way."

"I'm not sure if people will believe it, but if you're sure." Tony hated the fact that they couldn't head straight back.

XXXXX

Balboa put his cell in his pocket and looked over at McGee. His job was to keep an eye on the other agent and make sure he was safe.

XXXXX

Trent called his usual contact. "Rachel Edwards has left Hawaii, with a fake ID. When we find out what the name is I will call with those details." He didn't like giving away too much information; it was part of his nature, even more so now he protected them. It was still hard to wrap his mind around the fact that it had started.

XXXXX

"Who are you?" Ziva demanded to the man who walked into the director's office.

"I'm Tom Morrow; I'm standing in while Director Shepard is under investigation."

"For what?"

"That I cannot divulge Ms..." He asked even though he knew who she was.

"I'm Officer Ziva David."

"Ah yes, the liaison."

"Yes, you should send me to Hawaii so I can help with the investigation into Tony's disappearance. I'll be on the next flight."

Tom almost laughed at her arrogance. "I'm sorry Officer David, but they don't need you in Hawaii. I'm not-."

"Do you know who my father is?"

"Yes, I do. Please go back to your desk and carry on with any outstanding casework." He walked back out of his office and over to Cynthia. "Can you please bring me Ziva David's file?"

"Yes sir, straight away." Messages of complaints had come to her, Cynthia had passed them on but Shepard deleted them. The Director had tried to protect the Mossad Officer, so it didn't come back and bite her in the ass. It looked like it was going to now.

XXXXX

"So with Grace around Jared should be fine?" Jackie asked Blair.

"She should be able to bring him out of zone outs. What are we going to do about their schools?" Blair asked.

Kort had listened to the conversation. "I'll see if there are any contacts within the education system here."

"Thank you, Agent Kort." Jackie smiled; it was still strange to find out that her son was a sentinel.

Kort stood and walked outside, grabbed his cell and spoke immediately. "Another sentinel and guide, children this time, Jared Vance and Grace Williams. Yes, NCIS Agent Leon Vance's son and Detective Daniel Williams' daughter." With that he hung up.

XXXXX

Governor Denning smiled as he watched his brother and Max. The ME had come up with a lot more tests and Joseph seemed happy to try every one. As long as his guide was happy, he was. He made a promise to himself that he would help protect sentinel and guides. People were out to kill them, but he wouldn't let his fear stop his brother from having a full life.

XXXXX

Assistant Director Roper, of the CIA, placed he slammed his cell on his desk. He hated the fact that he had to pretend to care about these animals. Now he could finally do something about it. After the call from Trent Kort, he then called Sacks. There were now children who were freaks, but it was a great chance for them to observe and experiment. They all knew the way to the Sentinel was through the guide. They were going to kidnap Grace Williams.

***

Chapter 14

A man flew out of the hospital with something in his arms. It didn't take Kort more than a second to realise that it was indeed a child, Grace in fact and the person carrying her was none other than Ron Sacks.

"Let her go!" Kort ordered coldly as he pulled out his gun and moved to block the other man's path.

Sacks looked at him and knew who it was straight away, Trent Kort, CIA agent. He also knew of his reputation, he was a man who wouldn't hesitate to kill anyone, a cold son-of-a-bitch. Then he heard shouts from inside, Sacks readjusted Grace and threw her towards Kort to distract him while he took off.

Kort quickly moved forward and managed to catch Grace before she fell to the pavement. He turned her around to check and make sure she was okay, as Grace wrapped her arms and legs around him tightly as she shook like a leaf. He reached down and put his gun back into his holster before gently stroked his hand through her hair and walked towards the hospital.

"It's okay, you're safe now. Let's get you back to your dad." He said softly and felt her nod against his shoulder in agreement.

"Gracie?" Danny yelled as he came running out. He breathed a sigh of relief at the sight of her. Steve was right on his heels. They took hold of her and huddled into a little group.

Gibbs, Tony, Jim and Blair joined Kort.

"What happened?" Gibbs asked.

"It was Sacks, it seems we have a traitor, someone has been feeding him information."

"You know who it is, don't you?" Tony guessed.

"I do, and I'll make sure that they're dealt with. We need to recheck people to make sure no one else gets through. Security needs to be tighter."

"I'll make sure of it," Ellison promised.

"Are those the ones who took us?" Danny asked.

"No, we did. We have a spray that knocks people out, sentinels can't smell. It's been passed down for generations. We needed to make sure that you were medically healthy and to have your details on file. If you're taken to the hospital, it will be flagged, and you'll be dealt with by one of us." Kort tried to explain.

"You could have asked," Tony snapped.

"Remember this is all new to us, we didn't know how you'd react. Things will change now that sentinels are coming online."

"Are you helping to take care of us?" Gracie looked over and asked.

"Yes I am," Kort smiled at her.

"What's your name?"

"Trent Kort."

"Okay, Uncle Trent." She replied happily.

Tony forced himself not to laugh at the look on the other man's face. Grace was told all about sentinels and guides, and she understood it was a secret. When they had been all introduced it seemed like they were all linked to Grace and to her that meant they were family. They had all become uncles. Gibbs had looked happy, but it was tinged with a little sadness as he thought about his beloved daughter.

XXXXX

Tom answered his cell as soon as it started to ring and it seemed to be doing that consistently since he 'd gone back to NCIS. It had confused many people. "Morrow...Kort? What can I do for you? You're sure, okay do you know who…Roper? I'll look into it and call you when we have confirmation." As soon as the call ended he sighed. Tom had no doubt it would be verified. People were going to have to be vetted very carefully.

XXXXX

"Are you okay?" Fornell frowned at Sacks as he sat down.

"I'm fine, a woman had her bag stolen, and I tried to help her."

"Did you get them?" Fornell didn't believe it because it wasn't the kind of thing the other man would do.

"Unfortunately he was too fast for me. It's this damn heat." Sacks complained.

"It does take some getting used to." Fornell couldn't believe it even when lying, Sacks had to make some excuse, and nothing was ever his fault.

XXXXX

"I'm going to call Fornell; I need to warn him about what happened," Gibbs told the others as he dialled. "It's Gibbs, don't give anything away. Do you understand? Good, is Sacks with you? Okay, be careful around him he tried to kidnap a kid earlier. Trent Kort saved her. We need to stop him without putting anyone innocent in the line of fire. I'll let you know as soon as we come up with a plan. Do your best to keep your eyes on him, but stay safe."

XXXXX

"Thanks for that, I'll catch up with you later." Fornell continued to speak after Gibbs had hung up.

"Anything interesting?" Sacks nodded towards the cell that was now on the table.

"Not really, just an update on one of my cold cases."

"Is there anything I can help you with?"

"Not at the moment, as soon as there is, I'll let you know."

Sacks observed Fornell something was going on that he was out of the loop on and he didn't like it.

XXXXX

Blair looked through the paper spread out on his bed and chuckled.

"Do you want to share the joke chief?"

"I'm sorting out training for adults and kids. It just reminded me of teaching back in Cascade." He got to his feet and hugged his partner, "and all those people that ridiculed me. When this all comes out, I want to be there to see the look on their faces."

"You'll be the foremost expert; everyone will want to talk to you." Jim tightened his hold.

"And I'll help them if I can. You, and then the other sentinels and guides are at the front of the queue."

"I'd hate to imagine where I would be if you didn't have an ex-girlfriend in the hospital."

Blair also hated to think about it; eventually if he hadn't been killed he would've been locked away. "Well, you're stuck with me." He then pulled the man he loved down for a kiss.

XXXXX

Danny stood next to Leon and watched Gracie, Jared and Kayla run around on the beach.

"I know this is the last thing you want for your daughter." He stopped the other man from interrupting him. "I'd feel the same if it was Kayla and I don't want Jared to be a sentinel, but here we are. I just want you to know that we consider Grace one of ours. If you need anything just call. If you're called out to work day or night just let us know, and we'll look after her. We're closer than a lot of families. We need to get to know each and be able to work with each other." Leon wanted him to know how important she was to them.

"I appreciate that everything has happened so quickly and the whole thing with Rachel, I don't even know what to do with that. Thank you for the offer; I'm glad Gracie can help Jared, at least now he'll have a life."

"I hoped, but I never believed anything would change." He smiled at how gentle his son was with his guide. "We're going to have to teach him how to control those sentinel urges."

Tony walked over and laughed. "Good luck with that, Jethro and Steve still can't seem to curb their protective instincts."

Leon groaned, and the other two laughed even harder.

XXXXX

Steve laughed as Jackie told a story about a stupid mistake her husband had made. He answered his cell when it started to ring.

"Hi Chin, what? That seems a little sudden. Okay, I'll get Gibbs to call his F.B.I friend. Get your butt over here, Kono as well."

"What is it?" Gibbs walked over as soon as he heard his name once Steve was off the phone.

"Agent Sacks is on a plane back to Washington, alone."

Gibbs grabbed his cell and dialled his old friend. "There's no answer."

***

Chapter 15

Steve managed to get a key from a hotel member of staff so they could open the room door. There lying on the floor bleeding was Fornell. Gibbs rushed to his side, while Danny called for an ambulance.

"Tobias?"

"It was Sacks; he was interrupted before he could finish the job. He disappeared out of the window. Whoever tried to get in here realised they'd got the wrong room or had forgotten something, either way, it saved my life." He coughed wincing.

"Okay, you explained, now shut up," Gibbs ordered, as the paramedics arrived. He moved away so they could work on his friend.

XXXXX

It didn't take the two NCIS agents, to say goodbye to everyone and promise to keep in touch. There was nothing left for them to do in Hawaii, but they had to get back to Washington to make sure that their teammate was safe.

XXXXX

Tom looked up as his office door opened and smiled.

"Gibbs, DiNozzo, it's good to see you both, hello Agent Kort."

"Getting settled in Tom?" Gibbs asked.

"I can now as I've been named the director of NCIS officially. They offered it to Vance, but he can't leave Hawaii as you know. How's his son?"

"He's doing well now that he has a 'friend' in Grace," Kort answered.

"So you know everything?" Tony waved a hand between him and Gibbs.

Tom laughed. "Yes, I know everything and when we're alone." It was clear that he wasn't sure if the room was bugged. "We can chat about it. Oh, and I have some unfortunate news for you Agent Kort."

"And that is?"

"I'm sorry to tell you that Assistant Director Roper was in a 'terrible' accident and didn't make it."

Kort knew precisely what was going on and was glad that it had been dealt with quickly. "The agency has lost 'an extraordinary man'. I'd better call the agency to see if they need me. I'll talk to you later." With that, he walked out of the office, and there stood open-mouthed were Ziva and McGee. Kort winked at them and laughed as he passed them.

XXXXX

Sacks threw his cell onto the hotel room bed. Roper had been discovered and taken out. Things had been going so well, and now it was all falling apart. There hadn't been any word on the death of Fornell, so the stubborn bastard must still be alive. If only he hadn't been interrupted, no matter he still had to carry on. Now he had to sort out a hiding place and continue from behind the scenes.

XXXXX

They hadn't stayed at the office for long. Morrow had told them to go home. Gibbs had ordered Ziva and McGee to get back to work; it wouldn't be long before they headed over to his place. As soon as they'd arrived back at Gibbs', Ducky and Abby were there waiting for them.

"We need a quick update before Timmy and Ziva arrive," Abby whispered urgently.

He unlocked the door and in they walked, but before they could talk about anything a car came screeching to a halt outside the house.

"Ziva," Gibbs growled.

The other two members of the team walked in. Ziva headed straight towards Tony. Ducky sat on one side of his young friend, and Abby dropped into the space on the other side. She glared at them and when no one moved Ziva finally moved over to the chair and sat down. Tim stood by the door, and Gibbs was by the fireplace.

"How have things been?"

"Timmy has a new girlfriend." Abby blurted out.

"Oh really, tell me all about her." He hated the fact that Tim was being used. Tony really hoped that his little probie wasn't indeed in love.

"She's beautiful, English and elegant. I'm so happy." That was all he was going to say on the matter.

"So what happened in Hawaii?" Ziva interrupted, she knew all about the girlfriend. She wanted to know what happened, so she watched as Tony and Gibbs glanced over at each other, something was going on. Why wouldn't they tell her about it?

"We didn't manage to get to the bottom of who took Tony and Danny or the reason why. We also couldn't stay any longer we do have jobs." Gibbs replied.

"Well, maybe, if I had gone it would have been solved." She lifted her head and eyed them arrogantly. As soon as she met Gibbs gaze, Ziva quickly changed the subject. "Where's Director Shepard?"

"How would we know, we haven't been here?" Tony threw her a bright grin.

"Since the Director and Gibbs were 'close' I thought he would know what was going on?" Ziva pushed, there were too many things that were going on, and no one would tell her anything.

"I'm not going to gossip with you." Gibbs wished he and Tony were alone. He felt on edge, there hadn't been any time for him to check out his home to make sure it was secure. He didn't want his guide to vanish again.

Tony's cell beeped, he glanced at it and then placed it in his pocket. Ziva walked over to his side and gently stroked a hand up his neck. Ducky could see that his old friend was barely holding it together. Something had to be done, and quickly.

"Well, I'm glad to see you both back. We'd all better get back to work. I have bodies to deal with, and you have cases to look at." Ducky grabbed Ziva by the arm and pulled her gently out of the door before anyone could say anything. The other two followed close behind.

Once they were alone, and they had heard the cars leave Tony was on his feet and straight into his sentinel's arms. "I only want you."

"I know, but she's pushing it. What was that on your phone?" He asked as he held Tony tightly.

"My what…oh it was Morrow, he's been in touch with Denning. They're doing everything they can to make sure we're safe. I still can't believe how long people have been waiting for 'our' return." Tony was still paranoid about using 'sentinel and guides'.

XXXXX

Jim lay in bed, his fingers playing with Blair's curls. He'd felt so alone for so long, but things had changed as soon as he met his guide. He bent his head and placed a soft kiss on the head that lay on his chest.

"Hey man, you should be asleep. There's going to be a long day of training and bonding with both adult and baby sentinels, while I deal with the guides."

"How many do you think are out there?"

"I don't know we have to figure out how to find and train them. We can't have them all going to one place, that's just asking for trouble."

"We'll sort it out, we have to." Jim couldn't believe that he wasn't the only one who was different. He wasn't a freak, it was a gift. He snuggled down and closed his eyes, Jim, for the first time felt complete.

XXXXX

Danny and Steve smiled as they watched a sleeping Gracie.

"She's going to be okay, isn't she?"

"Of course Danno, she is your daughter" He paused for a moment. "We'll make sure of it. Come on let's go back to bed." Steve waggled his eyebrows.

"We're going to sleep, I'm just exhausted. It's been a hell of a day."

"Is there anything I can do for you?"

"All I need is to be in your arms. How are you holding up?"

"I…I don't know, I still can't believe that Catherine betrayed me."

"Is there anything I can do for you?"

He took hold of Danny's hand and pulled him towards their bedroom. Everything he needed was in this house.

XXXXX

"Good morning gentleman, please have a seat. We have things we need to discuss, where to go forward," Morrow smiled at them both.

"I want Ziva off my team. She's a danger if we slip up and she talks to her father who knows what could happen."

***

Chapter 16

Tony nodded in agreement; he didn't like the never-ending sexual harassment which just seemed to be getting worse. Ziva seemed to feel like she had the right to act any way she wished too.

Tom sighed. "I agree with you, I've been through her file and Cynthia has also passed information via emails that had come in. There had been numerous complaints and the ones Shepard could destroy, she did. The liaison position should've ended quite a while ago."

"Why didn't anyone come to me?" Gibbs frowned, not understanding why they didn't.

"You treated her like a daughter; you let her get away with things." Tony tried to explain.

"I…"

"It's okay, Ziva knew what buttons to push. She knew your family history." He reached out and took hold of his sentinel's hand.

"I've had a few calls from her trying to get answers about what's going on between you and DiNozzo, and of course what is going on with Shepard."

"What is going on with Jenny?" Gibbs asked.

"She's been fired, and arrested while we look into her; some things are suspicious. I can't go into it as it is an ongoing case, but there was enough at initially found to have her arrested, more charges are pending the outcome."

XXXXX

Sacks walked down the dark alleyway. He was waiting for a contact to give him a fake ID so he could get the hell out of here. He'd tried to get hold of Shepard, but nothing. She would've helped him for information, and he had plenty of that.

It seemed that all the people he could ask for help had vanished. It was too dangerous for him to stick around.

XXXXX

Kort aimed the sniper rifle and smiled. Sacks had given him the perfect opportunity. A place where gunfire is normal and an area where he was alone. He squeezed the trigger once and watched as the man collapsed to the ground. Anyone who tried to destroy the sentinels or their guides would die by his hand, especially if they tried anything on Gibbs and DiNozzo. He couldn't believe how protective he felt towards them now. It didn't stop Kort from wanting to strangle the younger man; DiNozzo knew what buttons to push. It was an advantage, and people underestimated him all the time, Kort himself had even done that.

XXXXX

"So, how many times have you threatened Steve?" Tony chuckled at Danny's reply. Sentinels and guides in some ways we're all alike, but their personalities and interaction with each other were what made the differences. "Is Gracie doing okay?" As much as he'd disliked kids, she'd actually grown on him. "That's good to hear. Jethro is fine, okay he's actually happy. I honestly never thought I could feel like this. I know it's going to be hard, but it's all worth it." Tony paused. "It sounds like you have to leave, we'll talk soon. Make sure Gracie is there, she needs a cool guide to talk to." He laughed as the phone went dead.

XXXXX

Rachel slammed her cell onto the table, where the hell was Sacks? Her next orders were meant to come from him, what should she do now?

"Emma," Tim called out as he headed over to her and sat down in the chair next to her.

She pasted a smile onto her face. "Timothy, my love."

He blushed at the comment. "You're looking beautiful, as usual. So what did you want to do for lunch?"

Rachel lowered her eyes, her lip trembled ever so slightly, and her fingertip danced across the table top. "I…" She stuttered to a stop.

He took hold of her hand. "Tell me, what is it? I'll do anything you want."

"It's important, essential, do you love me enough to help me?"

"I–."

She pulled him into a passionate kiss and smiled at his dazed look as she pulled back. "Well?"

"Anything," Tim replied bewilderedly.

"Kill Anthony DiNozzo," Rachel whispered seductively against his ear. Tim had been easy prey, weaker than all the other men she had put under her spell. He also hated DiNozzo; you could hear it in his voice when they discussed his job and colleagues. Sacks also hated him, this is what he would want, she was sure of that.

Tim pulled back and stared at her in confusion. "What?" He must have misheard her.

"I'll do anything you want, anything if you kill him for me. You do love me right, and you hate him, I can tell when you talk."

Tim moved away from her. "I'm not going to kill him, and I don't hate him. He's my teammate, my friend." He realised how it may come across, Tony must think the same thing, which was something that needed to change.

Rachel growled at the hesitation, stood and pushed him hard so the chair fell back and Tim hit his head hard on the ground. "Fuck." She whispered and ran off.

When Tim got to his feet, his hand rubbed where his head had hit and looked around, she'd vanished into the crowd. He needed to let Gibbs and Tony know.

XXXXX

Rachel ran until she hit a road and took a deep breath, he hadn't followed her. Just then a van stopped in front of her, a man climbed out, grabbed her and pushed her into the vehicle.

"What do you want with me?" She whispered.

An older woman leaned forward her face cold. "I want my son to be happy and safe. He can't do that if he continues to worry about the man he loves and a little girl he considers a daughter. I may not be the best mother, but I do have certain skills. Steve loves them, and that makes Daniel and Grace my family as well."

"Mrs McGarrett?"

"We went to your hotel room, and with the added information we found out from 'sources' I know you plane to kill your ex-husband and daughter. You'll take my son while he grieves. I should make you suffer and the rest your pathetic little group, just like you planned for Steve."

"It wasn't me, I promise–." Her head hit the back of the seat; blood poured from the gunshot wound that was in the centre of her forehead.

"Shall I get rid of the body ma'am?"

"Yes, thank you. We have plenty of work to do to make sure sentinels and guides are safe. My son will have a full and happy life."

XXXXX

"Yes," Kort answered the unknown call.

"Rachel Edwards is dead."

"Why did you kill her?" He hoped that this was an ally; he could use more of them.

"I'm going to trust you. I want my son to be safe, as much as he can be anyway. It is difficult considering his job and his temperament. He and his guide will be as safe as I can make them."

"Your son?" He'd guessed because of the choice of victim and the information she had given to him, but he had to make sure.

"Steve McGarrett."

"Doris McGarrett, I've heard a lot about you from the agency."

Doris chuckled. "I've heard a lot about you too. In this, we both want the same thing. I'm willing to work with you; this number will be the one that you can contact me on. I'll await my next mission." With that, she hung up.

Kort smiled, they had another soldier for their side in this fight. He looked up and stared at Gibbs' house. The rise of the sentinels was truly on its way, and the world would change for the better, he had no doubt about that. All you had to do was look at those who were sentinels and guides to understand that. They were heroes who tried to protect people, that's what they were born to do.

The End

A/N Not sure if I am going to do anymore in this series. At the moment I have no plans.

***

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