S5·E20 Fade

Episode recap

In the episode, Clark Kent intervenes to rescue a stranger who has found himself in mortal danger. The rescue prompts the man to feel indebted to Clark, and he offers to repay the favor in a manner that reflects his own unique talents. The rescued individual possesses the extraordinary ability to become invisible at will, a power he has honed alongside a career as a professional assassin. Recognizing an opportunity to aid Clark, he proposes to employ both his invisibility and his lethal expertise to eliminate Lex Luthor, whose continued presence threatens Clark’s personal life.

The plan unfolds as the invisible hitman moves covertly through the town, using his unseen state to position himself for a decisive strike against Lex. The episode builds tension around the moral implications of employing such a method, as well as the practical challenges of confronting a figure as formidable as Lex Luthor. Ultimately, the hitman’s actions bring Lex to a critical juncture, creating a scenario in which Clark’s long‑standing conflict with his father’s former partner reaches a climax.

Concurrently, the narrative follows the evolving relationship between Clark and Lana Lang. With Lex’s influence removed, Clark anticipates a reunion with Lana, yet the two must confront lingering uncertainties. The episode culminates in a candid exchange in which Clark and Lana openly discuss the status of Lana’s new romantic involvement. This conversation forces both characters to articulate their feelings, assess the future of their connection, and acknowledge the changes that have occurred since their earlier bond.

By intertwining the covert operation against Lex with the personal reckoning between Clark and Lana, the episode explores themes of gratitude, redemption, and the complexities of love in the shadow of extraordinary circumstances. The resolution leaves Clark with a clearer understanding of his own priorities and the consequences of relying on unconventional allies, while also providing a moment of emotional clarity for the pair as they navigate the aftermath of the night’s events.