Contains spoilers for this episode and earlier episodes.
Sauron's past is shown through the betrayal behind Adar's claim to have killed him. After Morgoth's defeat, Sauron tries to impose his rule on the Orcs, but Adar and his followers turn on him. His body is destroyed while his surviving essence slowly gathers strength and eventually takes the form of Halbrand. Joining human refugees brings him to the shipwreck where he meets Galadriel. In the present, he returns to Adar under that same disguise and offers information about Sauron's return, concealing that he is the enemy he promises to help find.
Galadriel reveals Halbrand's identity to Gil-galad, but Elrond refuses to trust the three rings made with his involvement. He escapes with them and seeks Círdan's help in destroying them. Círdan initially agrees, then changes his mind after seeing the objects themselves. At Lindon, the Elves are preparing to abandon Middle-earth when he brings the rings back. Círdan, Gil-galad and Galadriel wear them, and the failing tree regains its light. Elrond's objection remains even as the visible effect offers his people a reason to stay.
Nori and the Stranger struggle to navigate toward Rhûn while he dreams of a staff and fails to control his magic. Poppy catches up carrying maps that help them make progress, though riders are following their trail. Gil-galad sends a warning to Celebrimbor about Halbrand, but Sauron reaches Eregion first. The smith's workshop becomes his next destination after Adar releases him, unaware of the true identity behind their bargain.