Chapter Text
This is the expanded version of Chapter 51: Aviation and Investigators (Admiral Beau 'Cyclone' Simpson)
Philip Davenport was in a quandary because he was in two minds. He wouldn't usually meet with an SFA, but Agent DiNozzo wasn't just any Agent, and he didn't want to lose his skills to another Federal Agency, so he'd agreed to the meeting. In truth, he was testing the waters, "So, are you done with NCIS?"
Tony shook his head but wanted to make his feelings known, "No, but I am done being demeaned and told to ignore threats to National Security."
Davenport didn't get how the gossip could get it so wrong about someone, "When I ask about you, Agent DiNozzo... They say you are loyal to Gibbs."
DiNozzo shook his head to refute that idea, "I am loyal to justice and the truth. I believed our ideals aligned."
This was alarming, and he queried, "Do you no longer believe that?"
Tony shrugged but answered as diplomatically as possible, "I think a lot has happened to him in a short time, but Director Sheppard has approved his return."
Davenport challenged him, knowing what people would say and being curious himself about the answer, "And if people say it is sour grapes about being demoted?"
Tony tilted his head to the side because he could tell there was more at play here than even he could guess. "One might say I kept the solve rate high and improved the prosecution rate."
Davenport definitely liked that answer as it was data-driven and easy to prove. He did want an answer to one thing that had been bugging him, "Why did the Prosecution rate go up?"
Tony offered his most blank and professional smile, "I don't ignore procedures that I know a good lawyer can use to get their clients off on a technicality."
And that answer was the crux of the problem. Davenport figured he could share his thoughts and see what solution was suitable. "So you see, I have a problem!"
DiNozzo was uncertain but played along, "How can I help?"
Davenport sighed because he knew what was right, but what would be more effective? "You see, the smart play would be to order you to stay in charge of the MCRT."
DiNozzo shook his head because that was the last thing he was willing to do. Plus, after the attempted undercover sting she wanted him to be part of, he'd gone scorched Earth, "I'd say I've burned those bridges with Director Sheppard."
Davenport chuckled, but DiNozzo had unwittingly shown that he was a rare breed - an honest man. "I would agree, but I have a proposal for you, but it would be unorthodox."
"I am intrigued."
Davenport leaned in closer, liking the idea more and more. "Well, I think you should be a Special Investigator for my office. You would be impartial and sent wherever I feel you would be of benefit."
Tony sighed, "Will I have to play politics?"
"Don't play stupid with me; even your scorched Earth policy is a form of politics. Don't worry; at most, you will have to be bored at the Navy Balls like me." Davenport offered with his hand out.
Tony accepted the handshake and effectively sealed the deal, "I can't wait," he assured his latest boss.
It is crazy how that would be the best thing to ever happen to him.