Unable to convince his superiors of the existence of the NDs, Reece tries to trap one using Terell's craft as bait.

The town of Kirkhaven becomes the focus as more and more of its inhabitants succumb to the disease spread by Cdr. Friday. Meanwhile Shay tries to find a way to detect the gates, while Preston researches a ND toxin.

A huge black hill appears outside Kirkhaven, slowly enveloping more and more land. When even heavy artillery fire leaves it unharmed, Reece decides that someone must try to fly though it and gather data.