The | X-files 8x16

: Fans frequently cite the "black ops" mission with the Lone Gunmen and their "adorable" reunion with Mulder as a highlight of the episode.

: Mulder and the Lone Gunmen break into the Federal Statistics Center to access census data that allegedly tracks individuals for alien replacement. The X-Files 8x16

: A man named Howard Salt is shot on the White House lawn while attempting to hand over a disk containing information about a pending alien invasion. : Fans frequently cite the "black ops" mission

: After being denied reinstatement to the X-Files by Deputy Director Alvin Kersh, Mulder conducts his own investigation into the shooting. He is deeply suspicious of Agent Doggett, believing he is part of a government cover-up. : After being denied reinstatement to the X-Files

: The episode is highly regarded for finally letting the two leads "have it out". Reviewers from sites like The A.V. Club noted that while they clash "like cats in a bag," Doggett proves himself to be a vital part of the team.

: Doggett realizes the information he gave Mulder was a trap set by his contact, Knowle Rohrer. He rushes to the statistics center to save Mulder from approaching black ops mercenaries, though Mulder remains distrustful of his intentions. Critical Analysis and Themes

: The episode introduces the "Super Soldier" mythology. The final scene reveals strange protrusions on the back of Knowle Rohrer's neck, signaling that the conspiracy has evolved beyond the original Syndicate.