dragonheart | NCIS Episode Review - 8.21 Dead Reflection

I am not sure yet how I feel about this episode - I may need more time to ponder it, there was so much going on under the surface that I don't really know what to think. I guess my main emotion is bewilderment.

I am really confused about the Tony/EJ relationship. The writers are going out of their way to remind us that there is a relationship there and it is blatant. I lost count of how many times we were reminded of it in this episode, but it was alot. They have never done this before EJ- so why now? They are setting us up for something and all the spoilers are hinting that something big is going to happen. I have a few ideas, none of which I especially like.

I am confused about the portrayal of EJ. The writers have spent time portraying her character as this strong, independent woman who isn't intimidated by Gibbs or afraid to go after what she wants. They have actually taken the concept to the nth degree and stretched strong into bitchy, even mild mannered Ducky called her surly. So, now why throw in her insecurites about Ziva? Twice she questioned Tony about his whereabouts and specifically mentioned Ziva both times. Is she now jealous of Ziva? Is this supposed to be a bone thrown to the Tiva crowd? Is EJ now going to become all whiny and clingy? Is this a case of character incontinuity or is it intentional?

I am confused about why we need another jealousy arc with McGee/Abby/Cade? Isn't one enough? I am all about more face time for McGee and Abby, but does it have to be done this way?

And there's not enough time or space to ask the questions I have about Gibbs and Tony. And Tony and Ziva is just one big WHY????

This episode left me with alot of "whys". I hope I get some of my answers soon as it is looking to be a long summer hiatus.