Star Trek: Discovery 3.12 Review: Ups And Downs From There Is A Tide

4. Diplomacy Returns To Star Trek

Osyrra boards Starfleet HQ, flanked by guards and....sits down to talks with Admiral Vance (and the holographic lie detector, E-Li). FINALLY. This is a scene that immediately evokes memories of the franchise as a whole, and thankfully both Janet Kidder and Oded Fehr are strong and comfortable enough with each other to make the scenes between these two characters stand out.

While the direction of the franchise overall may have leaned slightly closer to action in recent years, it has not by any means abandoned the ideals of Star Trek as a whole and this interaction is a perfect example of it. Here are two leaders, both extremely invested in the outcome of these talks, both keenly interested in securing the best deal for their interests.

If we are to take the scene on prosthetic face value, then Osyrra is elevated as a character here. She genuinely wants peace in the galaxy, opposing the slavery in her own organisation. She may be ruthless, but she is a leader nonetheless, seeking the best outcome for the people in her care. E-Li confirms she is telling the truth and Vance presses her on accepting terms that will see the Federation and the Emerald Chain united. However, they reach an impasse on what should become of Osyrra herself.

The scenes are quintessential Trek and are all an UP this week.