is the third episode of the fifth and final season of Stargate Atlantis . Originally airing on July 25, 2008, it is a high-stakes character piece that focuses on Ronon Dex and his complex history with the Wraith and his own people. Plot Overview
The episode begins with the abduction of Ronon Dex by , a former friend and fellow Satedan soldier who first appeared in the Season 4 episode "Reunion". Tyre, desperate to regain his standing with the Wraith and addicted to their life-giving enzyme, trades Ronon to a Wraith Commander. Key story beats include:
: This episode is famously associated with the removal of Ronon's signature dreadlocks. Due to the weight of the hair causing Momoa physical strain, it was cut off; for the rest of the season, he wears a wig that was specifically styled to match his original look.
: After being betrayed and left for dead by the Wraith, Tyre is rescued by the Atlantis team. He undergoes a painful detoxification from the Wraith enzyme and ultimately helps Colonel Sheppard’s team locate and rescue Ronon.
: Martial artist Mark Dacascos reprises his role as Tyre, delivering intense action sequences, including a memorable sword fight with Ronon.
: The episode is widely noted for Momoa's physical and emotional range as he portrays Ronon's descent into madness and his subsequent recovery from brainwashing.
: A secondary plot follows Teyla Emmagan as she struggles with the balance of being a new mother and her duty as a member of the expedition. By the end of the episode, she officially decides to return to active duty on Sheppard's team. Production & Character Impact