A/N: So, alas, yet another post- Aliyah story. I tried my best to resist starting this, but obviously, I failed:-) If you are readying this, please know that I'm deeply appreciative. I do hope you enjoy.

Ch. 1 Ziva

"Tell me everything you know about NCIS," The man's voice was calm, but firm. He was not in a rush. Yet. However, the force with which he pulled her head back was enough to confirm that he was serious.

Concentrating on moving her aching jaw, Ziva's voice came out barely above a harsh whisper, due to hours without water. "NCIS," she paused, locking her one good eye on those of her interrogator, "stands for the Naval Criminal-," Ziva's voice was cut off by a sharp backhand to the already swollen side of her face. She clenched her teeth, willing herself to keep the cry of pain inside.

"You would do well to cooperate, Officer David." The man lit another cigarette.

"So you can kill be sooner?" Ziva's voice was weak in volume, but not in spirit. The man could see the rebellion in her eye. He bent over so that he could stare directly into her face. He then laughed, sending the acrid cigarette smoke into her face.

"Officer, you will be begging for death before we are done. Dying quickly is not an option." He left her alone in the room, with one thought coursing through her head.

How do they know that I am-was, NCIS?"