James heals from near-fatal wounds in an abandoned Yellowknife house, reflecting on centuries of existential weariness. He turns five new vampires in the catacombs under St Patricks church while broadcasting a false radio challenge.

Multiple POV showing galaxy response: Vashar freed and given command of deployment, Traq oversees protocol deployment to 43K Vanguards, Oliver handles security, Corinne brings corroborating alien tech data. Entity fleet confirmed 48 hours out.

Night before the campaign. Petrillo cleans his blade, observes the restless team, and shares Dominick's bourbon with Emma on the back steps. They acknowledge their connection. Petrillo maps the perimeter angles himself, carrying Dominick's training forward.

Five-year assessment. Marcus surveys Chicago from Willis Tower. Anchors convene at St. Bernardine's: 17 cities, 119 anchors, declining casualties. Power scaling explained - controlled access through anchor networks is safe regardless of timeline count; uncontrolled access is catastrophic.

Chelsea testifies what Kate would want (no rescue) vs what Chelsea wants (her daughter back). Emotional testimony tears council.

Kate Morrison undergoes testing in the containment chamber to demonstrate her abilities. She successfully removes Hollowing corruption from an infected crew member, but the experience leaves her bleeding and vomiting black substance. Chelsea intervenes to stop further testing.

Rylee demands options. Lucas: "We can try to sever Kate connection. Might kill her. Or we use her until the Hollowing takes her completely." No good choices.

Torretti returns to St. Bernardine's alone at dawn. Kneels at the hellmouth and confesses to Jonathan Kane — the murder, the fifteen-year friendship, the thirty-seven years of covert guardianship. Reveals Jonathan's last words: 'Tell him about the roses.' Surrenders the Lance at the hellmouth.

One year after Veras defeat. Gregory leads reformed Order with civilian oversight. Seals failing in 6-9 years. Bryce and Abigail agree to advise. Gregory senses Void Walker activity through disruption damage. Ends with Gregory working at his desk preparing for the real war ahead.