7 Ups & 1 Down From Star Trek: Strange New Worlds 3.5 — Through The Lens Of Time

9. UP — The Good Gamble

Not unlike all those quantum uncertainties in the temple, introducing a new character to an established TV series can be fraught with uncertainty. Not so for Nurse Gamble, now named as such (on screen). This ensign is the wager that paid off immediately back in Wedding Bell Blues, and with dividends in Through the Lens of Time.

The episode begins on the "junior medical officer's log," six months in to his service aboard the Enterprise. Gamble's unfettered enthusiasm is infectious. His joyful and genuine interest in all things is the essence of Starfleet. "After today, I know my life is never going to be the same again," he notes. In hindsight, that is practically a premonition. If only we could reach through the screen to warn him!

Gamble is so delighted to be joining the away team, so fascinated by Doctor Korby's research, that his reaction is to hug Doctor M'Benga. 'Professionalism be damned' is somewhat the point. Gamble wears his heart, his gratitude, on his (jumpsuit) sleeve — a rather precious quality of youth that can all too often vanish amongst the rigours of rank, age, and so-called 'responsibility'.

Unbeknownst to both participants, the hug was also a goodbye. The ensign never truly returned from Vadia IX. The opening scene in sickbay was his final resting place. Here lies the 'good Gamble' — soon to be ancient, but never to be old.