Ep 8. Quickening

In Angel season 3 episode 8, titled Quickening, the show takes a dark turn as Cordelia's physical state takes a turn for the worse. Connor seeks out Angel for help, but their relationship continues to be fraught with tension. Meanwhile, Wesley and Lilah work together to obtain a rare object that could aid in Cordelia's recovery.

The episode opens with Cordelia physically struggling and feeling weaker by the day. She is hesitant to confide in her friends about her condition, but eventually admits that something is seriously wrong. The gang starts to worry when she faints during a vision, indicating that her time as a higher being has taken a toll on her body.

When Connor comes to them with news about Cordelia, Angel is hesitant to help. Connor's constant distrust of him and his own guilt over Connor's birth make their relationship strained at best. However, when he sees how much Cordelia means to his son, Angel agrees to investigate. Through a series of flashbacks, it is revealed that Darla's death and Connor's birth were all part of a larger plan to bring Angel's son into the world as a means of protecting him from a powerful demon.

At the same time, Wesley and Lilah are on a mission to obtain a rare artifact that could help Cordelia recover. Their uneasy alliance is put to the test when they face a series of obstacles including demon attacks and a betrayal from a former ally. The tension between the two of them mounts as Lilah's true motives become more clear.

The episode reaches its climax as the gang comes together to try and save Cordelia. Wesley and Lilah's mission to obtain the artifact is successful, and Angel performs a risky ritual to heal Cordelia. However, the quickening has already taken its toll on her body and the consequences of her time as a higher being cannot be undone.

The episode ends with a somber tone as the gang mourns the loss of their friend. Cordelia's absence is felt deeply by all, especially Angel and Connor. The episode leaves viewers wondering what consequences her death will have for the rest of the season.