EVER has infiltrated the Farspace Fleet command structure and pressures Captain Rufus to allow a trapped DAA patrol squadron to die in a magnetic storm (caused by a mutated Protocore) rather than compromise the Protocore's research value. Rufus refuses — he severs the suppressor's connection and uses his flagship's shields to protect the trapped squadron, severely damaging his own warship. EVER observation drones circle the dying vessel. Colonel Caleb arrives piloting a black fighter jet, redirects the magnetic energy surge away from Rufus's flagship, and destroys EVER's drone swarm. The official narrative Caleb presents: Rufus perished, Caleb recovered the Protocore and prevented catastrophe. In reality, Rufus is alive and hiding at Caleb's undisclosed covert medical facility. Rufus recognises that his successor has orchestrated a perfect cover story to preserve Farspace Fleet's independence from EVER while establishing his own operational position within the system.