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scifi_rewatchThis is one of the bigger episodes in terms of character reveals. I’m referring to a specific introduction, though I won’t be more overt with that above the spoiler cut, but it’s also a revealing episode in terms of character relationships and motivations. With Zhaan’s mortality on a fragile precipice, I’d say this early episode kind of has the feel of a season ender.
I’m going to go ahead and give special kudos to the ScapeCast as well, because their conversation encouraged me to look at John in a more critical light. He’s certainly not the most selfish person on the ship—that award still goes to Rygel—but his wormhole obsession that catapaults the plot of this two-parter certainly has it’s drawbacks. In fact, he’s the one who gives this episode it’s specific title, while the overall miniseries name has a more general feel. Our crew members are certainly inflicting a lot of wounds on themselves, from Chiana cheating on D’argo, to Zhaan dying for Aeryn, and everything in between. Although through the plot the danger to Moya is imminent, this episode is as much about the interpersonal as anything.
Episode summary is here, courtesy of the John and Aeryn Fansite.
So, let’s start with the Pathfinders. Elitist to the max, they don’t even partake in translator microbe usage, so it’s a lucy thing John was around to sort that out. Actress Victoria Longley did a spectacular job bringing their leader to life. She was a complicated woman—egotistical and dismissive of our lower life forms on Moya, yet also compassionate enough to attempt to compromise and save their crew along with hers. Of course we ultimately learn that she and members of her staff have ulterior motives—a nefarious objective that they can’t share with our protagonists, which is never a good thing. And yet, even there, we realize that the families of these Pathfinders are being held hostage, so you can’t quite say their motivation for privileging their own ship is inhumane. Zhaan is certainly less forgiving on that point than I am. But anywho. Intriguing (if despotic in governance) species with ties to world building that interests John—and arguably the showrunners—the most; that having to do with wormholes and how they work. (I’ll grant that the showrunners—and John—are probably more interested in ethical issues, like who’ll get it and what they’ll do with it, than the research nerd Pathfinders seem to be.)
Our next alien reveal is Joolushko Tunai Fento Hovalis—who claims she doesn’t go by a nickname, but I distinctly remember your cousin referring to you as “Jool” last episode, young lady. :P Jool is played by Tammy MacIntosh, and isn’t generally well-liked in fandom from what I can tell. I might as well spoil that she’s going to be around for awhile—after all, unlike her cousin, she didn’t die upon minutes of revival, so something is going on there. She’s definitely annoying—elitist and bratty, if occasionally funny, both intentionally (snarking on an “Earth”-sounding disease) or unintentionally (attempting to shoot John.) She also has a piercing, metal-melting scream that’s as shrill as her personality…it also reminds me of Catalina, from my beloved “Space Cases.” :/ I assume Jewel Staite was getting involved in “Firefly” production around this time. Anywho! She awakes accidentally in the midst of a crisis and is able to help out with some theoretical stuff about the ships, though mostly she’s in the way. Rygel finally finds some use for her as revenge against John, who, earlier had broken the Hynerian’s nose, amongst other assaults, because of Rygel’s selfish attempts at sabotage. Then her hair turned red…a little obvious, but ok. :P Also, she sheds. And D’argo is finally able to personify her as part of his own need for therapy—the ladies are a pain in his mivonks lately, and he gets to tongue this one, hee. Wow, that sounded more untoward than I intended!
There are two ladies on Moya who are taking on more of the mothering role—Aeryn and Zhaan. Maybe this is due to their recent unity and life force sharing. OK, taking it a little overboard. Though I still feel, especially after certain glances this episode, that when Neeyala asks Aeryn if she’s ever been responsible for someone else’s death, at the moment the former Peacekeeper is thinking specifically of her Delvian friend. :/ Anywho. Aeryn tries to get D’argo to talk—warrior to warrior. She refers to Jothee and Chiana as kids acting out, which seems alarmingly astute, despite the nature of their transgression. D’argo compares Aeryn trusting John again to him trusting Chiana again, which does seem a little unfair—John literally had no freedom of will when attacking Aeryn last season finale. That being said…his relationship with the remnants of Harvey is different now, and revolves around wormholes. Aeryn recognizes more easily than John does how quickly this will become a slippery slope for him—it’s a level of nuance she might not have been capable of a cycle ago, but Claudia Black plays it so beautifully now. Finally, she even has to nix some passes by Stark, which does seem a little out of left field. I dunno, I cut Stark some slack because of all of the voices in his head. He talks about them in detail this episode.
Zhaan and Stark are almost in contrast to each other this episode—as Stark tries to motivate her to think of getting well and using her gifts again, Zhaan is more resigned to the probability of her life’s end. I think I have less of an issue with their relationship than do most others—they are both such spiritual, internal people, and also, I was intrigued by the fact that they are the keepers of memory from season two’s “The Locket.” Zhaan tries to pass on the responsibility of being Moya and Pilot’s caretakers (poor Stark gets vomited on for that one,) and her lover tells her a bit more about the darkness he’s accumulated from the souls he’s helped to pass over. Paul Goddard has a remarkable, haunting way of making Stark’s trauma feel multi-dimensional with just his face and the inflection of his voice. Anywho. Zhaan is also the only person able to reach through to Rygel and make him embrace his more humane side—until John pelts him with the wormhole ball, and the Hynerian gets his heckles up again. She also comforts Chiana, who is torn between her love for Moya and Pilot, and her desire not to die in this distorted region of space that they find themselves in. It’s really something, given that hers is the death that is far more certain, but she immediately envelops the sobbing Chiana into a hug and becomes her caretaker. It seems like Stark’s promise that she will use her healing powers again have already come to fruition.
Some odds and ends…wow is D’argo in a bad place. Or at least he starts that way, claiming the end is already here for those smart enough to see it, though he ends by sitting quietly with Chiana, giving her comfort while tears run down her face. It’s a rather touching moment, testament to the fact that maybe their relationship (platonically, at least,) can be salvaged. Chiana tries to explain her internal logic for cheating on him—like most of us, feeling the need to purge the guilt after the worst has passed. Classic Chiana—feeling cornered and lashing out sexually. Apparently she also dresses the part, because Jool pegged her as a “back-alley whore.” I’m holding that cruelty against the new gal. Anywho. Anthony Simcoe was great—dealing directly with Chiana, dealing around Chiana issues, ripping out chords and developing a fascination with his new ship (apparently it’s protected by a force field…) D’argo was raw and real. Apropos to little, I also like how the Pathfinder vessel and Moya melded together. Set designers hopefully had a little fun with that one.
Finally…John. Oh John. I think I wrote off his—let’s be honest, selfish—obsession with wormholes too easily in the past. If he—and Pilot—weren’t so caught up with analyzing that wormhole, maybe they would’ve gotten out of their faster. “Could’a, would’a, should’a,” John tells an unconscious Pilot at the end of the episode. Yeah…hindsight is 20/20. But in both conversations John was supposed to be focused on more altruistic things—Zhaan and Pilot. Instead, when apologizing to Pilot for their wormhole misstep, he’s still distractedly looking in Neeyala’s gizmo for more wormhole clues. (Sidenote: I’m a fan that the Earth image he found was from “The Three Stooges.” Honestly…it fits John’s role in the Uncharted Territories so well. :P Or maybe the crew in general of late—how they’re supposed to be a team, but keep stumbling over each other. Anywho.) Our homeboy was playing with his wormhole ball all ep, so I guess I was fore-warned. But Rygel, in the module, was almost holding up a mirror to John. Aren’t they all in this for their own interests? Will John stick with the crew when the chance at wormholes and a way home might come to him? He even gets Harvey out of the dumpster to debate the whole Moya vs Pathfinder thing. Perhaps I’m being callous, but I kind of feel like John got Harvey out to play the part that his bad conscience was already playing—he wanted the wormhole tech badly enough to consider leaving Moya and Pilot in the lurch. It’s just easier to hear it from Harvey than it is from himself. Also, might be easier to hear it at a drive-thru projecting the images. :P That was very cute. My big John-related niggler is…I don’t like how the episode ended. Yeah, like anyone believes our first billed star will be killed in part one of a two-parter. Out of context, it’s weak shock value to have “Zhaan’s” serpent attack him like that. Granted, we will learn more about the serpent and it’s behavior in part two. So, until then!
Favorite Crichtonism: What? Wha-? It-?-Uh- I mean - we're not even on the fairway? We're in the rough?
Favorite Quotes:
*Aeryn attempts therapy with D’argo about his annoying ships—the literal one and the figurative :P*
D’argo: Why the hezmana don't we just JETTISON this thing into FRELLING space? Crichton - first he wants to question these creatures, then he wants to BURY them - I mean, why don't we just open the last chamber and ASK them where Earth is?
Aeryn: And then he'll die in the first 30 microts like this one did.
D’argo: Well death isn't always a bad thing Aeryn. Who wants to live when your place in the universe has been suspended?
Aeryn: Jothee and Chiana are just kids D'Argo.
D’argo: I don't want to discuss it.
Aeryn: They were rebelling, they weren't trying to hur-
D’argo: REBELLING? Rebelling is smoking some galla root. Rebelling is NOT sleeping with- *backs into new ship* ARRRGGGHHH!
Aeryn: Look D'Argo, if you want to talk-
D’argo: I'm not ready.
Aeryn: Now that ship I'd like to jettison.
D’argo: What if there's some weapon aboard we can use?
Aeryn: What if the next system we set off destroys us all?
D’argo: We're already destroyed Aeryn. It's just that some of us don't know it yet.
*John cares about Zhaan—to a point…*
Pilot: I am as concerned about Zhaan’s welfare as you Commander. However-
John: Stark says that we gotta get her into the ground. How long?
Pilot: *transmission reacting to John pitching his wormhole ball at his projected face* Uunngghh!! A planet meeting --Zhaan’s aaaah-tmospheric requirements is less than an arn away!
John: So hetch it up baby! Come on! Let's go!
Pilot: I simply thought you'd like to see this before it went away!
John: What? *wormhole outside!* HO-ly- Pilot - take readings. Complete spectrum roll, diffuse electron analysis across the electromagnetic range. It's only theoretical but we'll look for a dimensional bend in the halo effect!
Pilot: Commander-
John: I know! I know! Zhaan. Look - scan on the parabolic curve, give me a chance to dip in for some readings! Prepare to launch my module!
*John realizes the lack of understanding; Aeryn reacts as a soldier*
John: What the hell did you do to Moya?
Kreetago: We must maintain integrity as described.
Aeryn: Crichton my comms aren't wor- WHAT DID YOU DO?
Kreetago: NEEYALA! BACK OFF! IT CARRIES A WEAPON!
Aeryn: GET ON THE GROUND NOW! GET ON THE GROUND!
John: Aeryn! Whoawhoawhoa! Stop it-stop it. I don't think they understand what we're saying!
*Farscape loves it’s gross-out humor, but D’argo and Stark are still stunned by this one :P*
Pilot: I don't know what's wrong! I don't know what's happening to us!
D’argo: All right, just calm down Pilot, and tell us how you feel.
Pilot: Well I feel - *massive retching, mostly onto Stark’s face*
D’argo: I had no idea that he could do that!
*science fiction culture saves the day again*
Neeyala: We were regaining dimensionality when our ships collided. They must have been subjected to a massive burst of photonic distortion. Once the phaztillion generator is repaired, we'll dose ourselves and hope your living ship doesn't interfere with non-thermal dimensional forces.
Aeryn: Do you understand any of those words?
John: Yeah I watched all kinds of Star Trek. It's just the order that they're in.
*Zhaan sees an omen. Stark sort of thinks Zhaan is his omen*
Zhaan: I am to die soon. The Goddess has chosen my harbinger.
Stark: A magnificent planet lies just out there to rejuvenate and sustain you.
Zhaan: A serpent lies between.
Stark: You are ill - hallucinations.
Zhaan: My Stark... My wonderful Stark - so afraid to let go.
Stark: I have a darkness which frightens lovers away. Whenever I assist the dying, I cannot help but absorb a tiny spillet of their existence. Over the cycles, the endless parade of death... I've accumulated a vast reservoir of evil. I cannot bear to lose the one thing that mitigates this twisted core of my existence.
*referencing “Hogan’s Heroes” to an alien who can’t understand him…same difference as taking the microbes, really :P*
Aeryn: How do we get the ships separated?
John: Save that for later- *waves hand at Kreetago* - Colonel Klink! Yo! inspection is over!
*Chiana and D’argo, presumably, have their first post-relationship chat*
Chiana: What can I do to help?
D’argo: Two tiers down, 4 chambers across - Moya’s external pressure sensors - yank 'em all.
Chiana: I mean, what can I do about us?
D’argo: That relationship does not exist.
Chiana: We could die. It exists for me.
D’argo: If you did not want to marry me, you could have found some other way to tell me.
Chiana: When I'm cornered, I-I don't think clearly.
D’argo: At least now you're speaking the truth.
*introduction to Jool, who’s been frozen for 22 cycles*
John: Hey... Sleeping Beauty... Wake up and die.
Jool: Who are you?
John: My name is John. Listen - we don't have much time-
Jool: Correct. Yours is up. *refusing John’s help to get up* GET-!Don't touch me!
John: Do you know me? My race?
Jool: Sebacean. Intellectually suited to carry weapons and die marching in formation.
John: Human. Your species and mine might be related.
Jool: Of course they are. I have a brother who's a Stinerian lizard.
John: Have you ever heard of Earth?
Jool: On Trintika Major, the Predorian fly transmits a fatal rheumatoid disease called - Arth.
Rygel: Ah - very similar.
Jool: The animal speaks?
John: Whoa- *holding Rygel back* What's your name?
Jool: Joolushko Tunai Fenta Hovalis.
Rygel: What do they call you for short?
Jool: My whole name.
*D’argo and Chiana have the most amusing reaction to the bad starburst. Sad end. :(*
Chiana: Bad?
D’argo: Is 2 of you bad?
Chiana: That so depends.
D’argo: Well it's not bad enough.
Chiana: You should let Zhaan have a look at it.
D’argo: Zhaan does not have much respect for my head.
Chiana: You know, it's okay to be in pain D'Argo. But since you're all right - I'll get back to work.
*Zhaan has a lack of patience for Neeyala’s elitism*
Zhaan: Pathfinder Neeyala - if your crew will not accept translator microbes, then I cannot communicate. If I cannot communicate - I cannot heal.
Neeyala: Ah we have rules against alien exposure. It is sufficient I have broken them.
Zhaan: I understand - but under these extreme circum-
Shreena: Pathfinder! Pathfinder help him please! His leg -- we need help!
Zhaan: Tell her to follow me. My lab is the only place I might heal him.
*Aeryn is worried about John’s decision to go out in his module for rocky research*
Aeryn: *to Neeyala* May we have a moment? *softly, to John* Insane.
John: Since birth.
Aeryn: Suicidal.
John: Test pilot.
Aeryn: Do you trust her?
John: If we don't do something, we're gonna die.
Aeryn: I'm worried you're a little too excited by all this.
John: It's wormholes. That's what Scorpius wants.
Aeryn: Scorpius is dead. That's what you want.
John: Aeryn. It can be a tool or a weapon. Let's get there first.
Aeryn: Let's get there alive - first.
Neeyala: She doesn't like you.
John: Nah it's a phase. It's part of her charm.
Neeyala: Hm. I admit to some skepticism myself.
*Neeyala’s indignant reaction to the module*
Neeyala: If this is - some kind of - jest-
*Stark is randomly a creeper*
Stark: It's no use. Even with the isolation D'Argo's providing, we're traveling too fast for Pilot to cope.
Aeryn: It's all right. I know the hangar door configuration. *Stark gets in close* Something wrong?
Stark: You're very pretty.
Aeryn: But I'm not Zhaan, right? Never be her. It's all right Stark. We're going to get her out of here and we're going to put her in the soil she needs to heal.
*Chiana tries to cover for John with Jool; doesn’t go too well*
Jool: I can't believe my cousins are dead.
Rygel: They didn't suffer... Much.
Jool: Animal! How did they die?
Rygel: if you must know - We were at a surgical facility where you were all frozen. Crichton needed a brain-
Chiana: -STORM - on - how he could rescue you. We saved, uh... 2 pods.
Jool: One of my cousins survived?
Chiana: Yeah - for 30 microts. Then he oozed this-this black gunk. We don't know how the other one died, do we Ryg?
Jool: What is it you're not telling me?
Chiana: Well, that we're in a crisis Hairdo. So you can either help, shut up, or go back to sleep.
Jool: I won't be spoken to like that by some - alley whore.
Rygel: How could she know that about you?
*John takes Rygel on the wormhole ride*
Rygel: Are we - dead?
John: Ooohhh no... Rygel you know what this is?
Rygel: No.
John: The Holy Grail. The Zone - we are in the effin' zone man. This is the dirty little secret of the universe. It all works if you know how to use it.
Rygel: Can these things take us - home?
John: In a heartbeat -if you know where you're going.
*D’argo and Aeryn therapy, take two*
Aeryn: D'Argo! D'Argo! Pilot has been unconscious for over an arn now.
D’argo: Well why didn't you stop me earlier!
Aeryn: Well somehow I have a feeling this isn't about him anymore.
D’argo: I'm sorry... I'm angry with myself because I can almost forgive her.
Aeryn: Why don't you?
D’argo: How can I trust Chiana with my heart? Can you trust Crichton again?
Aeryn: He trusts these aliens.
D’argo: We know nothing about them.
Aeryn: I think wormholes blind him.
D’argo: Well at least he has a hobby.
Aeryn: Help me keep an eye on it.
*not entirely just about Rygel being selfish*
Rygel: Next gap is the big one right?
John: Yep.
Rygel: Why don't we just escape?
John: Does it ever bother you? Being selfish?
Rygel: It's self-preservation - and no.
John: What about our friends?
Rygel: What friends? We were thrown together against our will and we're all just trying to make the best of it until we can get the chance to screw the others and get what we want. I vote out at the next gap.
*Zhaan has a final favor to ask of Stark*
Stark: You are masterful with him.
Zhaan: I am but a servant. This you will learn.
Stark: I could never replace you.
Zhaan: Stark you must. For me - you must remain here and minister these souls. I'm relying on it.
Stark: But I love you.
Zhaan: If I did not feel the same and more - could I ask this sacrifice of you?
*John and Rygel end on a sour note*
John: Hey! Whoawhoawhoa! Keep your hands off those controls!
Rygel: You have no right to make decisions for me! *struggle, break into normal space* We're free! Escape! Save our lives!
John: Guido - we are goin' back! *breaks Rygel’s nose with several jabs of the elbow, and brings them back where they’re supposed to be* Son of a bitch!
Rygel: You - broke my nose.
John: You ain't got a nose Guido! You got slits! Farscape 1 to Moya - positive contact with the docking web! Hey nice catch guys!
Rygel: I won't forget this Crichton - I swear you've attacked me for the last time!
John: You brought it on yourself, rugrat.
*the serprent rachets up Neeyala’s stress levels*
Neeyala: I never imagined you'd encounter this beast - otherwise I would have issued warning! You must believe me!
Zhaan: How can we Neeyala? Look at what you've done to our ship!
Neeyala: What I have done? It is YOU who have destroyed my life’s endeavor whilst I have suffered your probing, your confusions AND your smell. Do you not think that my bristles contain enough poison to dispatch you all? Yet, when I fail to overload what are clearly inferior intellects with a drist of needless information - YOU - bring weapons to bear! Kill me if you will - see how you fare on your own!
Aeryn: Do you feel better?
*Zhaan soothes Rygel’s temper…temporarily*
Zhaan: Do you hope someday to be Dominar, Rygel?
Rygel: I am still Dominar! Always Dominar!
Zhaan: I mean ruling from a throne, instead of a throne sled.
Rygel: They'll never know if I kill Crichton.
Zhaan: But you will. Fool the others if you like. But I see the larger goodness in a small Hynerian. Separating this alien ship from Moya must be your first priority Rygel.
Rygel: Have I ever told you that I appreciate your counsel?
Zhaan: Continuously - by accepting it.
*John has a devil’s advocate conversation with Harvey*
John: It's amazing the number of species picked up by Neeyala’s gizmo. Thousands of cultures spread out across the galaxy.
Harvey: I resent you calling me here at a whim.
John: That's the way it works Harvey. You don't like it, I can toss you back in the dumpster. Do you think Scorpy's still alive? Do you think - Scorpius - is - still - alive?
Harvey: Without a doubt.
John: What's he doing with the information he stole from my brain?
Harvey: The knowledge placed there by the Ancients, is by now, centerpiece of a sprawling new research facility.
John: If he masters wormhole technology, what will he use it for?
Harvey: Faster delivery of pizzas.
John: Neeyala thinks it's possible we can separate the ships. But only one will survive. We have to pick which one.
Harvey: Yes, it's a shame about Moya. She'll be fondly remembered.
John: It's not a done deal!
Harvey: Did you call me here to talk you out of your guilt?
John: No. It's just - the information amassed inside their ship...
Harvey: No contest! I sit here inside your feeble brain - listening to the arguments bounce off the hollow spaces! How could you not choose science over a beast of burden? You disgust me John! I long for the dumpster. Pilot and Moya are to die John. Take the wormhole knowledge that's fallen in your lap and call it day!
*John’s shipmates call him out on the same thing*
Zhaan: Forgive me Pathfinder Neeyala, but I do not count you as unbiased.
Rygel: Hah! Like you are! You know what you and Pilot have in common besides big eyes? You're both dying! And now you want to take us with you! *John strikes him with the wormhole ball* OOF!
John: Can it F Lee! Zhaan - Pilot is unconscious. Moya’s nexus system is so backed up the Roto-Rooter man couldn't get it-
Zhaan: I know the litany John. How desperate you must be for this wormhole knowledge.
John: Unfair.
D'argo: You place your obsession above the lives of your friends.
John: What?
Stark: What have these strangers done to so earn your trust?
*Zhaan offers Chiana comfort as death looms imminent*
Chiana: How you feelin'?
Zhaan: You missed the debate.
Chiana: Th-that's what I wanted to talk to you about - I feel guilty.
Zhaan: What possibly for?
Chiana: I-I love Pilot and I-I love Moya - but I don't want to die here.
Zhaan: There is nothing wrong with a decision of the heart child. In the time that is left, use your mind to satisfy your soul that it is correct.
*Aeryn and John don’t get quite so far*
Aeryn: I'm going to take a run through the ion backwash chamber, see if there's anything I can do.
John: Hey - you all right?
Aeryn: No.
*Jool acts on Rygel’s intel; D’argo saves the day*
John: What the hell are you tryin' to do?
Jool: You lied to me. You butchered my cousins brain so you could steal a wellot of his neural fluid? A member of the intellectual elite. 16 advanced degrees. Traded - for the likes of you?
John: Cut it out lady.
Jool: If we're to perish - then at least you'll die first. *her shot dissipates against the new ship’s shield; D’argo tongues her*
D’argo: I thought you were good with women.
John: I am.
D’argo: Did you see what happened when she fired at the ship?
John: Actually no. I was looking at the - pulse rifle.
D’argo: There's a small gap in the force field - which unsurprisingly, is the key to its access. Now, John -- we're trapped in this - varn of a wormhole, Pilot's unconscious, Moya is dying - and my son has slept with my betrothed. Lock - this woman - up.
*the aliens and their ominous secret mission…*
Neeyala: I do not enjoy sending you to your death youngling. But options are depleted.
Shreena: I want to live.
Neeyala: More important, do you want your family do live? You know what happens to ours should this ship fail to return.
Shreena: Will you tell them?
Neeyala: That you thought of them, to the end. Attention now Shreena. Time is limited. These creatures - I will distract them. They must not know your true mission.
*Moya’s crew tries to come to terms with abandoning her. Neeyala is more determined*
Zhaan: I have failed my purpose Stark.
Stark: You protect, heal, give hope.
Zhaan: This ship and her Pilot are to die.
Stark: As do all things. Once out of the wormhole, you will heal in the soil of a fertile planet. And one day - your gifts will again help others.
…
D’argo: I cannot take you back Chiana. But I won't leave you alone in pain.
…
Neeyala: Have you - ever been responsible for another’s death Officer Sun?
Aeryn: Yes I have.
Neeyala: This is my first time.
Aeryn: Did you know your crew well?
Neeyala: Enough to steel my determination. On their memory, I will not fail.
*John makes his apologies to an unconscious Pilot*
John: Pilot you should see all these cultures - that you could touch with one wormhole. Man I wish you were goin' with us. Hey Pilot - I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Could'a, would'a, should'a.
___
I’m going to go ahead and give special kudos to the ScapeCast as well, because their conversation encouraged me to look at John in a more critical light. He’s certainly not the most selfish person on the ship—that award still goes to Rygel—but his wormhole obsession that catapaults the plot of this two-parter certainly has it’s drawbacks. In fact, he’s the one who gives this episode it’s specific title, while the overall miniseries name has a more general feel. Our crew members are certainly inflicting a lot of wounds on themselves, from Chiana cheating on D’argo, to Zhaan dying for Aeryn, and everything in between. Although through the plot the danger to Moya is imminent, this episode is as much about the interpersonal as anything.
Episode summary is here, courtesy of the John and Aeryn Fansite.
So, let’s start with the Pathfinders. Elitist to the max, they don’t even partake in translator microbe usage, so it’s a lucy thing John was around to sort that out. Actress Victoria Longley did a spectacular job bringing their leader to life. She was a complicated woman—egotistical and dismissive of our lower life forms on Moya, yet also compassionate enough to attempt to compromise and save their crew along with hers. Of course we ultimately learn that she and members of her staff have ulterior motives—a nefarious objective that they can’t share with our protagonists, which is never a good thing. And yet, even there, we realize that the families of these Pathfinders are being held hostage, so you can’t quite say their motivation for privileging their own ship is inhumane. Zhaan is certainly less forgiving on that point than I am. But anywho. Intriguing (if despotic in governance) species with ties to world building that interests John—and arguably the showrunners—the most; that having to do with wormholes and how they work. (I’ll grant that the showrunners—and John—are probably more interested in ethical issues, like who’ll get it and what they’ll do with it, than the research nerd Pathfinders seem to be.)
Our next alien reveal is Joolushko Tunai Fento Hovalis—who claims she doesn’t go by a nickname, but I distinctly remember your cousin referring to you as “Jool” last episode, young lady. :P Jool is played by Tammy MacIntosh, and isn’t generally well-liked in fandom from what I can tell. I might as well spoil that she’s going to be around for awhile—after all, unlike her cousin, she didn’t die upon minutes of revival, so something is going on there. She’s definitely annoying—elitist and bratty, if occasionally funny, both intentionally (snarking on an “Earth”-sounding disease) or unintentionally (attempting to shoot John.) She also has a piercing, metal-melting scream that’s as shrill as her personality…it also reminds me of Catalina, from my beloved “Space Cases.” :/ I assume Jewel Staite was getting involved in “Firefly” production around this time. Anywho! She awakes accidentally in the midst of a crisis and is able to help out with some theoretical stuff about the ships, though mostly she’s in the way. Rygel finally finds some use for her as revenge against John, who, earlier had broken the Hynerian’s nose, amongst other assaults, because of Rygel’s selfish attempts at sabotage. Then her hair turned red…a little obvious, but ok. :P Also, she sheds. And D’argo is finally able to personify her as part of his own need for therapy—the ladies are a pain in his mivonks lately, and he gets to tongue this one, hee. Wow, that sounded more untoward than I intended!
There are two ladies on Moya who are taking on more of the mothering role—Aeryn and Zhaan. Maybe this is due to their recent unity and life force sharing. OK, taking it a little overboard. Though I still feel, especially after certain glances this episode, that when Neeyala asks Aeryn if she’s ever been responsible for someone else’s death, at the moment the former Peacekeeper is thinking specifically of her Delvian friend. :/ Anywho. Aeryn tries to get D’argo to talk—warrior to warrior. She refers to Jothee and Chiana as kids acting out, which seems alarmingly astute, despite the nature of their transgression. D’argo compares Aeryn trusting John again to him trusting Chiana again, which does seem a little unfair—John literally had no freedom of will when attacking Aeryn last season finale. That being said…his relationship with the remnants of Harvey is different now, and revolves around wormholes. Aeryn recognizes more easily than John does how quickly this will become a slippery slope for him—it’s a level of nuance she might not have been capable of a cycle ago, but Claudia Black plays it so beautifully now. Finally, she even has to nix some passes by Stark, which does seem a little out of left field. I dunno, I cut Stark some slack because of all of the voices in his head. He talks about them in detail this episode.
Zhaan and Stark are almost in contrast to each other this episode—as Stark tries to motivate her to think of getting well and using her gifts again, Zhaan is more resigned to the probability of her life’s end. I think I have less of an issue with their relationship than do most others—they are both such spiritual, internal people, and also, I was intrigued by the fact that they are the keepers of memory from season two’s “The Locket.” Zhaan tries to pass on the responsibility of being Moya and Pilot’s caretakers (poor Stark gets vomited on for that one,) and her lover tells her a bit more about the darkness he’s accumulated from the souls he’s helped to pass over. Paul Goddard has a remarkable, haunting way of making Stark’s trauma feel multi-dimensional with just his face and the inflection of his voice. Anywho. Zhaan is also the only person able to reach through to Rygel and make him embrace his more humane side—until John pelts him with the wormhole ball, and the Hynerian gets his heckles up again. She also comforts Chiana, who is torn between her love for Moya and Pilot, and her desire not to die in this distorted region of space that they find themselves in. It’s really something, given that hers is the death that is far more certain, but she immediately envelops the sobbing Chiana into a hug and becomes her caretaker. It seems like Stark’s promise that she will use her healing powers again have already come to fruition.
Some odds and ends…wow is D’argo in a bad place. Or at least he starts that way, claiming the end is already here for those smart enough to see it, though he ends by sitting quietly with Chiana, giving her comfort while tears run down her face. It’s a rather touching moment, testament to the fact that maybe their relationship (platonically, at least,) can be salvaged. Chiana tries to explain her internal logic for cheating on him—like most of us, feeling the need to purge the guilt after the worst has passed. Classic Chiana—feeling cornered and lashing out sexually. Apparently she also dresses the part, because Jool pegged her as a “back-alley whore.” I’m holding that cruelty against the new gal. Anywho. Anthony Simcoe was great—dealing directly with Chiana, dealing around Chiana issues, ripping out chords and developing a fascination with his new ship (apparently it’s protected by a force field…) D’argo was raw and real. Apropos to little, I also like how the Pathfinder vessel and Moya melded together. Set designers hopefully had a little fun with that one.
Finally…John. Oh John. I think I wrote off his—let’s be honest, selfish—obsession with wormholes too easily in the past. If he—and Pilot—weren’t so caught up with analyzing that wormhole, maybe they would’ve gotten out of their faster. “Could’a, would’a, should’a,” John tells an unconscious Pilot at the end of the episode. Yeah…hindsight is 20/20. But in both conversations John was supposed to be focused on more altruistic things—Zhaan and Pilot. Instead, when apologizing to Pilot for their wormhole misstep, he’s still distractedly looking in Neeyala’s gizmo for more wormhole clues. (Sidenote: I’m a fan that the Earth image he found was from “The Three Stooges.” Honestly…it fits John’s role in the Uncharted Territories so well. :P Or maybe the crew in general of late—how they’re supposed to be a team, but keep stumbling over each other. Anywho.) Our homeboy was playing with his wormhole ball all ep, so I guess I was fore-warned. But Rygel, in the module, was almost holding up a mirror to John. Aren’t they all in this for their own interests? Will John stick with the crew when the chance at wormholes and a way home might come to him? He even gets Harvey out of the dumpster to debate the whole Moya vs Pathfinder thing. Perhaps I’m being callous, but I kind of feel like John got Harvey out to play the part that his bad conscience was already playing—he wanted the wormhole tech badly enough to consider leaving Moya and Pilot in the lurch. It’s just easier to hear it from Harvey than it is from himself. Also, might be easier to hear it at a drive-thru projecting the images. :P That was very cute. My big John-related niggler is…I don’t like how the episode ended. Yeah, like anyone believes our first billed star will be killed in part one of a two-parter. Out of context, it’s weak shock value to have “Zhaan’s” serpent attack him like that. Granted, we will learn more about the serpent and it’s behavior in part two. So, until then!
Favorite Crichtonism: What? Wha-? It-?-Uh- I mean - we're not even on the fairway? We're in the rough?
Favorite Quotes:
*Aeryn attempts therapy with D’argo about his annoying ships—the literal one and the figurative :P*
D’argo: Why the hezmana don't we just JETTISON this thing into FRELLING space? Crichton - first he wants to question these creatures, then he wants to BURY them - I mean, why don't we just open the last chamber and ASK them where Earth is?
Aeryn: And then he'll die in the first 30 microts like this one did.
D’argo: Well death isn't always a bad thing Aeryn. Who wants to live when your place in the universe has been suspended?
Aeryn: Jothee and Chiana are just kids D'Argo.
D’argo: I don't want to discuss it.
Aeryn: They were rebelling, they weren't trying to hur-
D’argo: REBELLING? Rebelling is smoking some galla root. Rebelling is NOT sleeping with- *backs into new ship* ARRRGGGHHH!
Aeryn: Look D'Argo, if you want to talk-
D’argo: I'm not ready.
Aeryn: Now that ship I'd like to jettison.
D’argo: What if there's some weapon aboard we can use?
Aeryn: What if the next system we set off destroys us all?
D’argo: We're already destroyed Aeryn. It's just that some of us don't know it yet.
*John cares about Zhaan—to a point…*
Pilot: I am as concerned about Zhaan’s welfare as you Commander. However-
John: Stark says that we gotta get her into the ground. How long?
Pilot: *transmission reacting to John pitching his wormhole ball at his projected face* Uunngghh!! A planet meeting --Zhaan’s aaaah-tmospheric requirements is less than an arn away!
John: So hetch it up baby! Come on! Let's go!
Pilot: I simply thought you'd like to see this before it went away!
John: What? *wormhole outside!* HO-ly- Pilot - take readings. Complete spectrum roll, diffuse electron analysis across the electromagnetic range. It's only theoretical but we'll look for a dimensional bend in the halo effect!
Pilot: Commander-
John: I know! I know! Zhaan. Look - scan on the parabolic curve, give me a chance to dip in for some readings! Prepare to launch my module!
*John realizes the lack of understanding; Aeryn reacts as a soldier*
John: What the hell did you do to Moya?
Kreetago: We must maintain integrity as described.
Aeryn: Crichton my comms aren't wor- WHAT DID YOU DO?
Kreetago: NEEYALA! BACK OFF! IT CARRIES A WEAPON!
Aeryn: GET ON THE GROUND NOW! GET ON THE GROUND!
John: Aeryn! Whoawhoawhoa! Stop it-stop it. I don't think they understand what we're saying!
*Farscape loves it’s gross-out humor, but D’argo and Stark are still stunned by this one :P*
Pilot: I don't know what's wrong! I don't know what's happening to us!
D’argo: All right, just calm down Pilot, and tell us how you feel.
Pilot: Well I feel - *massive retching, mostly onto Stark’s face*
D’argo: I had no idea that he could do that!
*science fiction culture saves the day again*
Neeyala: We were regaining dimensionality when our ships collided. They must have been subjected to a massive burst of photonic distortion. Once the phaztillion generator is repaired, we'll dose ourselves and hope your living ship doesn't interfere with non-thermal dimensional forces.
Aeryn: Do you understand any of those words?
John: Yeah I watched all kinds of Star Trek. It's just the order that they're in.
*Zhaan sees an omen. Stark sort of thinks Zhaan is his omen*
Zhaan: I am to die soon. The Goddess has chosen my harbinger.
Stark: A magnificent planet lies just out there to rejuvenate and sustain you.
Zhaan: A serpent lies between.
Stark: You are ill - hallucinations.
Zhaan: My Stark... My wonderful Stark - so afraid to let go.
Stark: I have a darkness which frightens lovers away. Whenever I assist the dying, I cannot help but absorb a tiny spillet of their existence. Over the cycles, the endless parade of death... I've accumulated a vast reservoir of evil. I cannot bear to lose the one thing that mitigates this twisted core of my existence.
*referencing “Hogan’s Heroes” to an alien who can’t understand him…same difference as taking the microbes, really :P*
Aeryn: How do we get the ships separated?
John: Save that for later- *waves hand at Kreetago* - Colonel Klink! Yo! inspection is over!
*Chiana and D’argo, presumably, have their first post-relationship chat*
Chiana: What can I do to help?
D’argo: Two tiers down, 4 chambers across - Moya’s external pressure sensors - yank 'em all.
Chiana: I mean, what can I do about us?
D’argo: That relationship does not exist.
Chiana: We could die. It exists for me.
D’argo: If you did not want to marry me, you could have found some other way to tell me.
Chiana: When I'm cornered, I-I don't think clearly.
D’argo: At least now you're speaking the truth.
*introduction to Jool, who’s been frozen for 22 cycles*
John: Hey... Sleeping Beauty... Wake up and die.
Jool: Who are you?
John: My name is John. Listen - we don't have much time-
Jool: Correct. Yours is up. *refusing John’s help to get up* GET-!Don't touch me!
John: Do you know me? My race?
Jool: Sebacean. Intellectually suited to carry weapons and die marching in formation.
John: Human. Your species and mine might be related.
Jool: Of course they are. I have a brother who's a Stinerian lizard.
John: Have you ever heard of Earth?
Jool: On Trintika Major, the Predorian fly transmits a fatal rheumatoid disease called - Arth.
Rygel: Ah - very similar.
Jool: The animal speaks?
John: Whoa- *holding Rygel back* What's your name?
Jool: Joolushko Tunai Fenta Hovalis.
Rygel: What do they call you for short?
Jool: My whole name.
*D’argo and Chiana have the most amusing reaction to the bad starburst. Sad end. :(*
Chiana: Bad?
D’argo: Is 2 of you bad?
Chiana: That so depends.
D’argo: Well it's not bad enough.
Chiana: You should let Zhaan have a look at it.
D’argo: Zhaan does not have much respect for my head.
Chiana: You know, it's okay to be in pain D'Argo. But since you're all right - I'll get back to work.
*Zhaan has a lack of patience for Neeyala’s elitism*
Zhaan: Pathfinder Neeyala - if your crew will not accept translator microbes, then I cannot communicate. If I cannot communicate - I cannot heal.
Neeyala: Ah we have rules against alien exposure. It is sufficient I have broken them.
Zhaan: I understand - but under these extreme circum-
Shreena: Pathfinder! Pathfinder help him please! His leg -- we need help!
Zhaan: Tell her to follow me. My lab is the only place I might heal him.
*Aeryn is worried about John’s decision to go out in his module for rocky research*
Aeryn: *to Neeyala* May we have a moment? *softly, to John* Insane.
John: Since birth.
Aeryn: Suicidal.
John: Test pilot.
Aeryn: Do you trust her?
John: If we don't do something, we're gonna die.
Aeryn: I'm worried you're a little too excited by all this.
John: It's wormholes. That's what Scorpius wants.
Aeryn: Scorpius is dead. That's what you want.
John: Aeryn. It can be a tool or a weapon. Let's get there first.
Aeryn: Let's get there alive - first.
Neeyala: She doesn't like you.
John: Nah it's a phase. It's part of her charm.
Neeyala: Hm. I admit to some skepticism myself.
*Neeyala’s indignant reaction to the module*
Neeyala: If this is - some kind of - jest-
*Stark is randomly a creeper*
Stark: It's no use. Even with the isolation D'Argo's providing, we're traveling too fast for Pilot to cope.
Aeryn: It's all right. I know the hangar door configuration. *Stark gets in close* Something wrong?
Stark: You're very pretty.
Aeryn: But I'm not Zhaan, right? Never be her. It's all right Stark. We're going to get her out of here and we're going to put her in the soil she needs to heal.
*Chiana tries to cover for John with Jool; doesn’t go too well*
Jool: I can't believe my cousins are dead.
Rygel: They didn't suffer... Much.
Jool: Animal! How did they die?
Rygel: if you must know - We were at a surgical facility where you were all frozen. Crichton needed a brain-
Chiana: -STORM - on - how he could rescue you. We saved, uh... 2 pods.
Jool: One of my cousins survived?
Chiana: Yeah - for 30 microts. Then he oozed this-this black gunk. We don't know how the other one died, do we Ryg?
Jool: What is it you're not telling me?
Chiana: Well, that we're in a crisis Hairdo. So you can either help, shut up, or go back to sleep.
Jool: I won't be spoken to like that by some - alley whore.
Rygel: How could she know that about you?
*John takes Rygel on the wormhole ride*
Rygel: Are we - dead?
John: Ooohhh no... Rygel you know what this is?
Rygel: No.
John: The Holy Grail. The Zone - we are in the effin' zone man. This is the dirty little secret of the universe. It all works if you know how to use it.
Rygel: Can these things take us - home?
John: In a heartbeat -if you know where you're going.
*D’argo and Aeryn therapy, take two*
Aeryn: D'Argo! D'Argo! Pilot has been unconscious for over an arn now.
D’argo: Well why didn't you stop me earlier!
Aeryn: Well somehow I have a feeling this isn't about him anymore.
D’argo: I'm sorry... I'm angry with myself because I can almost forgive her.
Aeryn: Why don't you?
D’argo: How can I trust Chiana with my heart? Can you trust Crichton again?
Aeryn: He trusts these aliens.
D’argo: We know nothing about them.
Aeryn: I think wormholes blind him.
D’argo: Well at least he has a hobby.
Aeryn: Help me keep an eye on it.
*not entirely just about Rygel being selfish*
Rygel: Next gap is the big one right?
John: Yep.
Rygel: Why don't we just escape?
John: Does it ever bother you? Being selfish?
Rygel: It's self-preservation - and no.
John: What about our friends?
Rygel: What friends? We were thrown together against our will and we're all just trying to make the best of it until we can get the chance to screw the others and get what we want. I vote out at the next gap.
*Zhaan has a final favor to ask of Stark*
Stark: You are masterful with him.
Zhaan: I am but a servant. This you will learn.
Stark: I could never replace you.
Zhaan: Stark you must. For me - you must remain here and minister these souls. I'm relying on it.
Stark: But I love you.
Zhaan: If I did not feel the same and more - could I ask this sacrifice of you?
*John and Rygel end on a sour note*
John: Hey! Whoawhoawhoa! Keep your hands off those controls!
Rygel: You have no right to make decisions for me! *struggle, break into normal space* We're free! Escape! Save our lives!
John: Guido - we are goin' back! *breaks Rygel’s nose with several jabs of the elbow, and brings them back where they’re supposed to be* Son of a bitch!
Rygel: You - broke my nose.
John: You ain't got a nose Guido! You got slits! Farscape 1 to Moya - positive contact with the docking web! Hey nice catch guys!
Rygel: I won't forget this Crichton - I swear you've attacked me for the last time!
John: You brought it on yourself, rugrat.
*the serprent rachets up Neeyala’s stress levels*
Neeyala: I never imagined you'd encounter this beast - otherwise I would have issued warning! You must believe me!
Zhaan: How can we Neeyala? Look at what you've done to our ship!
Neeyala: What I have done? It is YOU who have destroyed my life’s endeavor whilst I have suffered your probing, your confusions AND your smell. Do you not think that my bristles contain enough poison to dispatch you all? Yet, when I fail to overload what are clearly inferior intellects with a drist of needless information - YOU - bring weapons to bear! Kill me if you will - see how you fare on your own!
Aeryn: Do you feel better?
*Zhaan soothes Rygel’s temper…temporarily*
Zhaan: Do you hope someday to be Dominar, Rygel?
Rygel: I am still Dominar! Always Dominar!
Zhaan: I mean ruling from a throne, instead of a throne sled.
Rygel: They'll never know if I kill Crichton.
Zhaan: But you will. Fool the others if you like. But I see the larger goodness in a small Hynerian. Separating this alien ship from Moya must be your first priority Rygel.
Rygel: Have I ever told you that I appreciate your counsel?
Zhaan: Continuously - by accepting it.
*John has a devil’s advocate conversation with Harvey*
John: It's amazing the number of species picked up by Neeyala’s gizmo. Thousands of cultures spread out across the galaxy.
Harvey: I resent you calling me here at a whim.
John: That's the way it works Harvey. You don't like it, I can toss you back in the dumpster. Do you think Scorpy's still alive? Do you think - Scorpius - is - still - alive?
Harvey: Without a doubt.
John: What's he doing with the information he stole from my brain?
Harvey: The knowledge placed there by the Ancients, is by now, centerpiece of a sprawling new research facility.
John: If he masters wormhole technology, what will he use it for?
Harvey: Faster delivery of pizzas.
John: Neeyala thinks it's possible we can separate the ships. But only one will survive. We have to pick which one.
Harvey: Yes, it's a shame about Moya. She'll be fondly remembered.
John: It's not a done deal!
Harvey: Did you call me here to talk you out of your guilt?
John: No. It's just - the information amassed inside their ship...
Harvey: No contest! I sit here inside your feeble brain - listening to the arguments bounce off the hollow spaces! How could you not choose science over a beast of burden? You disgust me John! I long for the dumpster. Pilot and Moya are to die John. Take the wormhole knowledge that's fallen in your lap and call it day!
*John’s shipmates call him out on the same thing*
Zhaan: Forgive me Pathfinder Neeyala, but I do not count you as unbiased.
Rygel: Hah! Like you are! You know what you and Pilot have in common besides big eyes? You're both dying! And now you want to take us with you! *John strikes him with the wormhole ball* OOF!
John: Can it F Lee! Zhaan - Pilot is unconscious. Moya’s nexus system is so backed up the Roto-Rooter man couldn't get it-
Zhaan: I know the litany John. How desperate you must be for this wormhole knowledge.
John: Unfair.
D'argo: You place your obsession above the lives of your friends.
John: What?
Stark: What have these strangers done to so earn your trust?
*Zhaan offers Chiana comfort as death looms imminent*
Chiana: How you feelin'?
Zhaan: You missed the debate.
Chiana: Th-that's what I wanted to talk to you about - I feel guilty.
Zhaan: What possibly for?
Chiana: I-I love Pilot and I-I love Moya - but I don't want to die here.
Zhaan: There is nothing wrong with a decision of the heart child. In the time that is left, use your mind to satisfy your soul that it is correct.
*Aeryn and John don’t get quite so far*
Aeryn: I'm going to take a run through the ion backwash chamber, see if there's anything I can do.
John: Hey - you all right?
Aeryn: No.
*Jool acts on Rygel’s intel; D’argo saves the day*
John: What the hell are you tryin' to do?
Jool: You lied to me. You butchered my cousins brain so you could steal a wellot of his neural fluid? A member of the intellectual elite. 16 advanced degrees. Traded - for the likes of you?
John: Cut it out lady.
Jool: If we're to perish - then at least you'll die first. *her shot dissipates against the new ship’s shield; D’argo tongues her*
D’argo: I thought you were good with women.
John: I am.
D’argo: Did you see what happened when she fired at the ship?
John: Actually no. I was looking at the - pulse rifle.
D’argo: There's a small gap in the force field - which unsurprisingly, is the key to its access. Now, John -- we're trapped in this - varn of a wormhole, Pilot's unconscious, Moya is dying - and my son has slept with my betrothed. Lock - this woman - up.
*the aliens and their ominous secret mission…*
Neeyala: I do not enjoy sending you to your death youngling. But options are depleted.
Shreena: I want to live.
Neeyala: More important, do you want your family do live? You know what happens to ours should this ship fail to return.
Shreena: Will you tell them?
Neeyala: That you thought of them, to the end. Attention now Shreena. Time is limited. These creatures - I will distract them. They must not know your true mission.
*Moya’s crew tries to come to terms with abandoning her. Neeyala is more determined*
Zhaan: I have failed my purpose Stark.
Stark: You protect, heal, give hope.
Zhaan: This ship and her Pilot are to die.
Stark: As do all things. Once out of the wormhole, you will heal in the soil of a fertile planet. And one day - your gifts will again help others.
…
D’argo: I cannot take you back Chiana. But I won't leave you alone in pain.
…
Neeyala: Have you - ever been responsible for another’s death Officer Sun?
Aeryn: Yes I have.
Neeyala: This is my first time.
Aeryn: Did you know your crew well?
Neeyala: Enough to steel my determination. On their memory, I will not fail.
*John makes his apologies to an unconscious Pilot*
John: Pilot you should see all these cultures - that you could touch with one wormhole. Man I wish you were goin' with us. Hey Pilot - I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. Could'a, would'a, should'a.
___
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