9 Ups & 1 Down From Star Trek: Lower Decks 5.3 — The Best Exotic Nanite Hotel

… doing something they… should have done about a year ago. Following on from my UP for the return of "Jariner," and not (just) because I like to see everyone single and alone, I thought the true re-ending of the Jennifer/Mariner story was particularly well done. Much like for a certain human and Bajoran on Risa, a holiday resort can also be conducive to more amicable separations.

Sure, most 'break-ups' don't happen wrapped around a palm tree whilst a giant, icosahedral cluster ("Glumpus") of nanites rampages through the space cruise ship you're on, but most things aren't Lower Decks. If a tree and imminent death is what it takes, a tree and imminent death is what it takes.

Although this time not quite the "responsible boss" to Boimler's "fun [not fired] boss" of Shades of Green, Mariner was clearly moving forwards from the "bad" reputation that had attracted Jennifer to her in the first place. Clinging to that tree, the pair found a way to talk through their feelings and to be happy as friends. For Mariner in particular, a character who has notably struggled with their mental health, that is truly great to see.