“Sticks & Stones”, The latest high octane episode of NCIS saw the team facing an unprecedented situation: the potential outbreak of World War III. A cryptic message intercepted by NCIS Naples suggested Belarus was planning attacks across Europe, prompting a rapid response from the U.S. government. With Air Force One incommunicado and the acting president eager to launch a nuclear strike, the NCIS team found themselves in a precarious position.
Agent Parker (Gary Cole), leading the charge, clashed with FBI Deputy Director Sweeney (Erik Passoja) over the proper course of action. Sweeney, wary of tipping off the perpetrators, restricted communication with NCIS Naples. Meanwhile, the team raced against time to decode a second message, hoping it held the key to de-escalation. This involved agents McGee (Sean Murray), Torres (Wilmer Valderrama), and Kasie (Diona Reasonover) working tirelessly, even resorting to unconventional methods like using a dating app for communication.
Tensions rose as the team defied orders, leading to their arrest by Sweeney’s FBI agents. Amidst the chaos, Kasie managed to decipher the message, revealing that Ukrainian forces had already neutralized the threat. The crisis was averted, though the team’s actions led to a DOD hearing. Ultimately, their efforts were acknowledged, with both Parker and Sweeney recommended for Distinguished Public Service Medals.
The episode also explored the complicated relationship between former couple Knight and Palmer. A late-night rendezvous in Knight’s RV led to a bittersweet resolution as they acknowledged their love for each other wasn’t enough, given their differing career paths.
NCIS airs Monday nights on CBS.
