Part 5/8:
Meanwhile, back on Earth, Erik collaborates with reporter Harper to decode an alien sound message from the artifact, raising stakes as he uncovers the potential dangers tied to the extraterrestrial presence. In space, the crew's victory over the virus is short-lived as they encounter another planet with a similar artifact, drawing their curiosity further into the secrets of the Achaia aliens—the architects of the artifacts.
Tensions escalate aboard the ship as Sasha, the diplomat, succumbs to alien control. When he tries to wrestle control of the ship towards an impending black hole, the crew must act decisively to reclaim their agency. Niko ultimately succeeds in seizing back control with AI William's assistance, preventing total catastrophe.