Logline
As a cadet sets out to solve an ancient Starfleet mystery, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns the value of forging her own path. Meanwhile, Nahla agrees to help a fellow chancellor with an elaborate alien ritual.
Written by: Kirsten Beyer & Tawny Newsome
Directed by: Larry Teng
The B-plot with the ambassadorial dinner thing felt a bit incomplete, and too comic-relief without quite landing. I guess it might keep going with the next episode, but overall this one was a decent exploration about the expectations of life and bearing being thrust into a role.
I wonder if there was more to it that got cut for time. I think it’s…fine as it is, if only because Holly Hunter’s physicality in the role is a sight to behold. But it doesn’t have much to offer besides the further development of the relationship between Ake and Kelrec.
That was my one gripe with the episode. I enjoyed the B-plot, but it felt disconnected to the rest. And with this episode otherwise serving as such a lovely coda to DS9, I wish they’d have kept it a bit more focused on that.
Those two have a Rimmer + Lister feel to them.