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NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3, titled The Edge, aired on October 28, 2025. With the return of Dr. Donald “Ducky” Mallard (Adam Campbell), a pivotal figure from the original series, it marks a significant moment in NCIS: Origins.
The episode explores his role as a liaison to evaluate the need for a medical examiner at Camp Pendleton, leading to a blend of mystery, personal growth, and a touching tribute to the past.
Disclaimer: The following article contains spoilers from NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3. Reader’s discretion is required.
The plot of the episode centers on Ducky’s arrival at Pendleton, where he is tasked with determining whether the team needs an in-house medical examiner. In the episode, they learn more about Ducky's impact on the team, especially his relationship with Gibbs, and his role in solving a chilling case.
In the end, Ducky uncovers the truth behind the murder of a Navy officer’s wife, while also reconciling with his past and helping others find closure.
Ducky's arrival at Camp Pendleton in NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3
A detailed recap of NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3 (Image via CBS)NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3 begins with a familiar face at Camp Pendleton. D.C. liaison Dr. Donald "Ducky" Mallard evaluates whether Pendleton needs its own medical examiner. He appears suspiciously to the team, who suspect a different purpose.
The team is aware of the recent rumors of restructuring within NIS, and Franks, in particular, is doubtful of the official explanation. However, what starts as a simple investigation turns into a journey of discovery, both for the team and for Ducky.
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Franks’ skepticism and Ducky’s arrival
A detailed recap of NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3 (Image via CBS)Franks’ initial skepticism about Ducky’s intentions comes from the growing concerns around potential changes in the structure of the agency. He dismisses Ducky’s arrival as unnecessary, especially as Franks has been relying on the county’s medical examiner.
Despite Franks’ hostility, Ducky’s charm and eccentricities win over the rest of the team, who quickly realize that Ducky isn’t just there to evaluate them. He is also there to help them with a case that’s far from simple.
The crime at the center of the episode involves the death of Mimi Lam, the wife of a Navy lieutenant commander. Mimi is found frozen in a walk-in freezer, and the team must figure out whether it was an accident or murder.
Ducky's help is needed when a mass casualty event leaves the local medical examiner unavailable. When the team needs Ducky for the autopsy, the audience sees his skill and dedication.
Also read: NCIS season 22 brought Gibbs back, but in a very interesting way
The mystery of Mimi Lam’s death
A detailed recap of NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3 (Image via CBS)Ducky quickly realizes that Mimi didn't die from the freezer's cold after examining her body. He discovers she was strangled and frozen. This revelation turns the accident investigation into a murder investigation.
Roland Lam, Mimi's husband, claims she died after getting trapped in the freezer, but Ducky found otherwise. Ducky's body examination reveals that Mimi died with a note, disproving Roland's alibi.
The note is initially mysterious. After further investigation, the team discovers that the note was a password, not Mimi's message to her killer. Mimi was an IT specialist supporting her struggling restaurant, and the note was her computer login credentials. This raises a new question: Mimi discovered a nerve agent secret that killed her.
Ducky’s emotional impact on the team
Aside from his role in solving the crime, Ducky also plays a significant emotional role in the episode. His presence provides a moment of reflection for several team members. Lala, struggling with a traumatic brain injury, seeks Ducky’s counsel about her future and the changes in her life.
Ducky offers her reassurance, telling her that the core of who she is remains unchanged, and she simply needs time to adjust to the new normal. His words of wisdom and his compassionate approach to healing help Lala regain some much-needed perspective.
Franks also tells Ducky about his depression-afflicted dog Gary Callahan. Franks acknowledges that he has neglected his personal life, and Ducky gently suggests that he fix himself before helping his dog.
Also read: NCIS: Origins season 2 premiere recap: What happened to Lala?
The nerve agent and Mimi’s discovery
The investigation takes a critical turn when the team discovers that Mimi had uncovered information about a nerve agent that was being developed at a nearby seed packing plant. An even more dangerous nerve agent than Operation Orange was being transported frozen, and Mimi accidentally exposed herself to it.
She had copied the data onto a floppy disk, which ultimately led the team to solve the case. Her decision to walk into the freezer was a calculated move to preserve the evidence, even as she faced certain death.
Ducky is devastated that thawing Mimi's body may have destroyed crucial evidence, but he later discovers that her porcelain molar remained colder than her body, providing the final clue. The team arrests the nerve agent manufacturer at the seed packing plant after this discovery.
Also read: NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 2 recap: Is Gibbs ready for his first interrogation?
Ducky’s legacy and Gibbs’ tribute
A detailed recap of NCIS: Origins season 2 episode 3 (Image via CBS)Ducky and Gibbs share a touching moment before leaving Pendleton. They remember their early days and how their friendship began. Ducky gives Gibbs a ship in a bottle to symbolize their friendship and lasting impact.
The episode ends with Gibbs contemplating his future and Ducky encouraging him to take up boat building again. This quiet but touching moment honors Ducky and their friendship.
Also read: 7 actors you probably forgot made a cameo in NCIS
To watch more of NCIS: Origins season 2, tune in to CBS or stream it on Paramount+.
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Edited by Rajan Bhattacharya
English (US)