The Widening Veil

Dr. Nigel Rhodes monitors the dimensional barrier readings and discovers the entire barrier is degrading simultaneously. Deep space sensors detect the Dominion invasion fleet: approximately three thousand capital ships waiting on the other side of the failing barrier.

Chelsea tells Kate about the eighteen-month neural degradation timeline. Kate reveals she already sensed this through her connection to the Hollowing. Chelsea promises to find another way to save Kate. Kate discusses becoming a living seal like Lucas's great-grandmother.

Alexis Chen analyzes Kate's neural scans and discovers that each use of Kate's abilities causes approximately 0.3 percent neural degradation. She calculates that at current operational tempo, Kate will experience complete neural degradation within eighteen months.

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 Voss convenes the war council to discuss the failing dimensional seal. A scout ship has been destroyed in a Dominion incursion. Dr. Rhodes projects seal failure within days to weeks.

Alarms. A Dominion scout ship breaks through weakened warp route. First enemy vessel in 200 years. Rylee destroys it. But the message is clear: they are coming.

Marcus dying. Chelsea at his side. Final words: "She is still Kate. Fight for her. But if she is gone... end it quick. Do not let her become a door." Marcus dies. Chelsea weeps.

Kate accepts what she might have to become. Not today. Not soon. But someday. The Hollowing whispers: "You understand now. The door always opens eventually." Kate: "Not for you."

Lucas tells Kate directly: his great-grandmother was a portal closer two hundred years ago. She walked into the light and never came back. Her last words: Tell them it was worth it. His father - Admiral Chen - commanded the fleet that rescued them from Sanctuary.