Star Trek: Discovery (2017–…): Season 4, Episode 8 - Episode #4.8 - full transcript
Previously on
Star Trek: Discovery...
Pull up Kwejian
on the deep-space array.
What happened?
- My ship was hit by something.
They're gone.
Five light-years across.
That's the size
of the gravitational anomaly
that hit Kwejian.
The DMA disappeared.
It reappeared 4.2 seconds later,
1,000 light-years away.
The only logical explanation
is someone created it.
For now, we're classifying
those responsible
as Unknown Species Ten-C.
Thank you, Commander,
for reaching toward me.
What are those?
- The coordinates.
- To Species Ten-C.
- I'm struggling.
The DMA has brought up
a lot of, uh, uncertainty.
You are only human.
If you don't find fulfillment
in something other than work,
then you will fail those
in the chair in front of you.
And I designed this.
A weapon capable
of destroying the DMA.
A "cascading subspace burst"
sounds a lot like the result
of an isolytic explosion.
My proposal carries some risk,
but not nearly as much
as doing nothing.
We need to defend ourselves.
If we make first contact
peacefully,
then we can determine intent
before we act.
Introducing the next generation
spore drive.
We have 94 seconds
before they realize it's gone
and figure out I'm the one
who took it.
Next part's all you.
Book. No.
I need Booker's ship found.
Scramble every available vessel.
Eisenberg class, shuttle,
I don't care.
They've stolen classified tech.
Do we have any idea where it is?
Negative, sir. It spore-jumped.
- Any idea where it's headed?
- Not yet, sir.
All available personnel
are looking.
Can anyone please tell me,
how the hell did our prototype
get out in the first place?
Security requires dual
authorization, does it not?
Yes, sir.
It has dual authorization.
Uh, Ruon Tarka entered
his code somehow
in conjunction with, uh...
...yours, sir.
Admiral.
I'll ask you both just once.
Did you have any idea
this was coming?
No, Madam President.
- Okay, then,
how did you have no idea
it was coming?
Tarka was your guy, Admiral.
Handpicked.
You gave him free reign.
Barely any oversight.
And it is one thing to miss
the capacity
for criminal misbehavior
in a professional relationship,
but yours was also personal.
I knew Book was struggling,
but he... he gave no indication
that he would do
something like this.
Hmm.
That spore drive technology
is the closest we have come
to ending
our dilithium dependence.
If word gets out that
the only functional prototype
has been stolen,
it will threaten everything.
Including trust
that we have the ability
to pull off this monumental
first contact mission
that you just helped to sell
a few hours ago.
That doesn't even
take into account
the risk we now run of provoking
a highly advanced species
who are capable
of destroying us all,
if Booker and Tarka succeed.
With all due respect, ma'am,
he's a good man
who's not thinking clearly.
He's grieving, he's-he's dealing
with unimaginable loss.
He thinks he's preventing
another Kwejian.
We are trying to prevent
something even worse.
I can get him to see that
before it's too late.
In order to build
an isolytic weapon,
Tarka needs isolynium.
That's a black-market element
that is not easy to track down.
That buys us time to find them.
Discovery's primary repairs
are done.
We can leave immediately.
I know you want to help,
Captain.
But you're too close to this.
You cannot be involved.
I'm told Intelligence
has identified four vendors
who are believed to have access
to isolynium.
I'm deploying ships
to all locations
with orders to detain
Booker and Tarka on sight.
Good. In the meantime, I'd ask
that Discovery gather data
on Species Ten-C.
We have to prepare
for a first contact,
provided our rogue associates
don't beat us to it.
I agree.
You have your orders,
Captain Burnham.
Dismissed.
So, how'd it feel?
The spore drive.
The interface. Efficiency.
Hit me. Come on, you're
the first real beta tester.
- It's impressive.
- Oh, come on, now.
Specifics.
It works.
It'll help us stop the DMA.
That's all that matters to me.
Can't fault your honesty.
We're safe for now,
out of scanner range.
How long do you need
to build the weapon?
24 hours should do it.
- She's hailing you again.
Yeah. And there's this, too.
Well, it's not the most
flattering picture of me,
but you, you look fantastic.
It's not lost on me, what
you're giving up to do this.
It's worth it, whatever
my sentence turns out to be.
Your sentence?
Once billions of lives
are saved, you'll be a hero.
That's not how
the Federation works.
You had half the assembly
eating out of your hand.
- We still lost the vote.
- Rillak's a political animal.
Once the DMA is gone,
she'll face political pressure
to pardon us.
She'll find a way to explain
that, in this case,
the ends justified the means.
Let's just worry about saving
the billions of lives first.
Okay?
Very well.
Once you've secured us
some isolynium,
- I can finish
the third phase of...
- Wait, what?
You made it sound like
you knew exactly how to get it.
I was counting
on the Federation's help.
- We don't have that now.
- Unbelievable.
What's the issue here?
I thought couriers
could find anything.
Buying something
that's dangerous and rare
is never easy, especially
with Starfleet on our asses.
I know a place
that won't be on their radar.
But it's gonna cost us.
See? That's the spirit.
And don't worry,
cost won't be an issue.
- Come.
Admiral.
I first met Ruon Tarka
when he was giving a lecture
ten years ago.
One of the most brilliant minds
I've ever encountered.
He had all these ideas
for new propulsion systems
and power sources.
Made it sound like
anything was possible.
And I believed him.
I still do.
I keep asking myself,
why would he do this?
What am I missing?
Sir, I wish I had answers.
Maybe Tarka couldn't handle the
council voting down his plan?
He has quite the ego...
...but I don't think that's it.
I just got my family back,
Captain.
The thought that I will have
to send them away again,
for their protection, because
someone I brought into the fold
might invite a war that
we couldn't possibly win...
We will figure this out.
And I will do everything in my
power to help make things right.
I think we can both agree
that Booker's not foolish enough
to buy isolynium
from any of the known suspects.
Sir, you and President Rillak
were pretty clear.
Yes, and it's very important for
the Federation president and I
to present a united front,
so I would never
publicly contradict her.
But I can take a page
out of her own book
and encourage you,
as one of the most creative
and adept officers
in my service,
to do everything you can
to stop them
within the parameters
of the mission you were given.
You find a way, Captain Burnham.
That's also an order.
♪
♪
♪
Well, the president wants us
to make first contact
sooner rather than later.
What have we found
at the coordinates?
Uh, Commander Stamets
was just updating me.
But may I say first,
we support you, Captain.
We all do.
And, uh,
we hope Book's okay.
Thank you.
What have we got?
Well, unfortunately, not much.
Data on what lies
beyond the galactic barrier
is extremely limited.
That gap in the center?
Is that where the Ten-C
are located?
Well, um, like I said,
it's limited.
But the orbit of
the extra galactic stars nearby
indicate a significant
gravitational presence.
There's definitely
something there.
To find out what,
we'll need a visual on the area.
Any idea how to do that?
- Zora?
Yes, Commander Stamets.
I may have something.
The sphere data has records
of a civilization
located 30 light-years away
from these coordinates,
just inside
the galactic barrier.
The Stilph.
They're warp-capable.
So they're advanced enough
and close enough
that their standard
stellar surveys
should cover the area we need.
Zora, has the Federation ever
crossed paths with the Stilph?
No. And no diplomatic
relations exist.
But they've dealt with
the Orions in the past.
Mm. Rather complicated
intermediaries.
We don't have
to go through them.
I know a broker on Porathia.
He has relationships
with everyone.
He can get us what we need.
A broker?
He's an old friend.
I will have to make
the request myself.
Keep combing through
for more data points
- in the meantime.
- Yes, Captain.
I'd be happy to complete
that task myself.
It is perhaps more tedious
than is worthy of your time.
Thank you.
Uh, I'd appreciate that.
Mr. Saru?
I'm bringing Commander Owosekun
to verify the surveys.
The Federation
isn't exactly welcome
on Porathia,
so once we jump there,
Discovery will need
to keep its distance.
We'll take a shuttle down.
Captain, am I correct
in assuming that this broker
is from your courier days
with Mr. Booker?
Yes.
And are President Rillak
and Admiral Vance aware
that you are planning
to pursue him?
You don't miss much, do you?
Only when sleep-deprived.
Vance unofficially ordered me
to kill two birds
with one stone.
And I believe this broker
is where Book will go
to get the isolynium.
I see.
You think I'm too close to this?
I believe there is no one else
who could possibly convince
Mr. Booker to correct his path,
but I do not envy your position
should he refuse.
I'll be back as soon as I can.
Uh, be safe, Captain.
Above all.
Welcome to Haz Mazaro's
Karma Barge.
We're gonna need
to make this fast.
Not what I was expecting
when you said
we'd find isolynium here.
There's nothing Haz won't
take bets on in the front
or sell in the back.
He'll have it.
Or know someone who does.
Charming place.
I should probably mention
that we didn't part
on the greatest of terms.
Do I need to know
the particulars?
Only that it was something
I did on my own.
Hopefully he's forgotten,
'cause it doesn't look
like a good day to be here.
Empty out your pockets.
Show me your hands.
Nothing. See?
Always wondered where Emerald
Chain dimwits went to die.
Listen, Haz is fun
until he's not.
So let me do the talking.
Think of me as a shadow.
♪
Haz know you?
Tell him it's Glow-Worm.
Glow-Worm? Hmm.
Glow-Worm!
A swamp cat could've
learned the Hortan Hustle
since I last saw you.
Seems like good terms to me.
Your timing's perfect.
I'm having a special
on Devore scanners
and modified scan deflectors.
Who's Mr. Personality?
My shadow.
- Where's Michael?
- Not here, obviously.
Come on, tell your buddy Haz.
What's the what with you two?
Still none of your business.
Look, I'm here for
something important, okay?
This Devore scanner
couldn't pick out
a Betazoid standing
all alone in a Nieser cage.
Apologies for my associate.
His filter was taken from him
by cognition pirates. Very sad.
I'm here for isolynium.
Heavy stuff.
Why, exactly,
do you need it?
Chatty as always, I see.
Not that I mind.
Each to his own,
- her own, their own,
all the things.
- Hmm.
I do happen to have access.
But it'll cost you
more than that.
We need proof it's pure.
Not the usual stuff
cut with sammonium.
Pay first, inspect later.
Shadow.
Take it all.
- We have a deal?
- I'll take your latinum,
but we don't have a deal.
Old score to settle.
Or did you forget?
Course not. But it wasn't on me.
I warned Ertel to stop
delivering Tranceworms.
It was dangerous business.
It wasn't,
until you stole his cargo
and he spent six months
trying to get back his losses.
Cost me my best customer
in the meantime.
I'd say that about covers it.
- We need the isolynium, Haz.
Weren't you listening?
I said not without more latinum.
It'll take a few days.
We don't have a few days.
Sorry, Glow-Worm.
Nice seeing you, though.
Give Michael a hug for me.
Haz. Haz, wait, wait. Wait!
Your guys out there,
they're looking for crooks
or card counters, right?
Detection tech hasn't worked.
I can't even tell you
how many are in the ring.
So you got nothing to lose
by letting us try.
You keep the latinum,
we get the isolynium.
Win-win.
You got yourself a deal.
But jab a brussel fly,
and I'll scoot some greenbread.
Clear?
Crystal.
The casino
is a dead zone by design,
so all of our weapons,
tech and comms
have to be checked at the door.
The Federation has no authority
on Porathia,
so we'll be on our own.
And there may be
a few surprises.
I-I'm not sure.
Any questions?
Just one.
You can verify
stellar surveys yourself.
Why bring me?
Saru told me what happened
at the subspace rift.
How you didn't want to
stand down when he told you to.
I was totally out of bounds.
I-I apologized to him.
I know.
But I also know how it feels
to want to do something.
Anything.
And how it feels when you can't.
Thank you.
♪
Just wait for it.
- We're here.
"Karma barge"?
- Friendly bunch.
- Always.
Watch yourselves, Starfleet.
Oh, we're good. Don't worry.
I heard we had Starfleet guests,
so I just had to scurry
like a spider cow
to welcome you.
- Right Hook?
Starfleet Captain Right Hook?
Tale for another time.
This is
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun.
This is Haz Mazaro.
I feel like I'm in
a time warp today.
So, uh, are you here
as part of Starfleet?
Or are we still friends?
Both. Both.
Here to buy some
extra galactic stellar surveys
from a civilization
called the Stilph.
They've had some run-ins
with the Orions.
I may know an Orion or two.
But why would you want
pictures of stars?
Stars are pretty.
Everyone
is so secretive nowadays.
I have missed you
like a Cardassian misses cake.
Unfortunately,
that won't be enough.
Ah.
And yet she remembers
the way to his heart.
It's true what the Elasians say.
Give a man a tor-bak,
and you are warm in the desert.
Anything else you need,
- it's yours.
- How about isolynium?
The plot thickens.
You said anything else I need.
Should be enough latinum
to cover it.
Sadly, the price goes up
with multiple bidders,
and there's already
someone else in play.
But perhaps you knew that.
- Is the other bidder here now?
- He might be
sniffing out some vermin for me.
Which gives you two lovelies
a chance to hit
the tables. See if you can
at least double that.
I'll get your star charts.
Open 'em up.
Let's get some tables going
in here
- while I'm out.
A new room is now open!
It's Book, isn't it?
The other bidder.
I had a hunch,
but I wasn't certain.
- If you want to wait
in the shuttle...
- No.
I'm in.
All the way.
And, for what it's worth,
there's no way you could have
seen this coming.
Thank you, Owo.
All right. Let's do this.
Haz said his detection tech
couldn't find the cheaters.
What makes you think
that thing will?
Given
the obsolete kernel patches
on the translators
he was hawking,
I wouldn't put any faith
in Mr. Mazaro's judgment
of what technology can
or cannot do.
Lots of possible cheats in here.
Pickpockets.
Card counters.
And that guy.
Check out his eyes.
Where?
I lost them. Their eyes
were locked on the deck,
and they had this
rhythmic blink, like a signal.
Maybe it's how they communicate.
Good. That's good.
- I'll be back.
- Hey. What?
We need to talk.
How did you find me?
You really need to ask?
You shouldn't be here.
Neither should you.
Whatever Tarka did or said
to sell you on this
doesn't matter now.
Just come back
while you still can.
If you take the isolynium
off the market
and out of Tarka's hands,
you could earn some grace
with the Federation.
They'll understand
how you got pulled into this.
I wasn't pulled into anything.
Tarka and I came to this
together, okay?
- You broke a half dozen laws.
- That's what it takes
to stop that thing
from killing more people.
But that's... That's not how...
This isn't the way.
When you first met me,
I had just hijacked
someone else's cargo
to save an endangered species.
Are you really surprised
by this, Michael?
If you buy that isolynium,
you'll be crossing a line
you cannot come back from.
You should leave, Michael.
Okay? Just go back,
say you never saw me.
I can't do that.
Then what are you gonna do?
Stop you.
If you like a challenge,
we need challengers!
I was just telling
your associate
that the stellar surveys
won't be an issue,
but, uh, they'll take time.
No problem.
We have some other business
to attend to, anyway.
Haz, how much do you want
to take the isolynium
out of play?
Three times what you have now.
Fine. I just need access
- to a comms channel.
- Ah.
Last thing I need
is more Starfleet sweeping in,
no offense, and that's
exactly what'll happen
when they find out Book's here.
I monitor Federation channels.
I know what's what.
Then you know
you cannot sell him
- the isolynium.
Sure I can.
Unless I sell it to you.
I'm a banta tree either way.
Book's not gonna
change his mind, is he?
Which means we need to score
a lot of latinum-- fast.
♪
Got an idea.
It's a little crazy.
Visit us up here
at the fight ring,
and we'll match your first bet
up to five slips.
- Um... Hugh?
- The ship cleans for us.
- Yeah, well...
sometimes,
it needs a little zhuzh.
No! How many times
do I have to say it?
Return to dock!
You're stressed.
- I'm not stressed.
- You're also cleaning.
Ergo, stressed.
Just... clearing my head.
Is this about Book?
He was
in a volatile emotional state,
and I didn't do enough.
This is what Kovich
was warning me about.
Pushing myself.
Wearing myself out.
Failing people.
What he did is not on you.
But it is. I'm responsible
for the psychological
and emotional health
of everyone on board this ship.
Book included.
You know
that's a completely unreasonable
expectation to bear.
You can't solve
your patients' problems.
All you can do is help them
find their own answers.
I know that. I do. I just...
It's all I can think about.
What I could've
done differently.
Hugh, listen to me.
I get anxiety.
I mean, right now,
I'm-I'm toggling between the DMA
and how Gray is settling in
to life on Trill.
Is Book okay, wherever he is?
And let's not forget
about how badly
I handled the situation
with Zora, so...
It's not the same as yours,
but it all comes
from the same place:
uncertainty.
Which is terrifying.
So, let's be terrified together.
Kovich said you need to take
some time for yourself, right?
The holodeck just got updated
with the Venabalia bloom
from Salata Major,
so how about we take
a little stroll
through a field full of flowers
for a bit?
I'd like that.
Are you sure about this?
Things are gonna be heating up
in the ring soon, folks.
You won't want to miss it.
Place your bets now!
Don't miss your chance
to score
on Joann "Oh Wow" Owosekun,
the most ferocious fighter
this side of Felton Prime!
Two to one odds are a steal,
folks. Double your money now.
We have one rule.
First one to hit the mat loses.
How you get there
is up to you.
- Fight!
That's right, keep your feet.
Limit vulnerabilities.
You got this.
Come on!
Wait for your moment!
At two-to-one,
your winner,
Ato Kurr!
- I want another shot.
- I don't think
that's a good idea.
We need the win.
Come on, let me try.
I can do this.
Who's gonna finally...
- Come on.
That was just a warm-up, folks!
Don't miss out on the rematch.
You'll regret it
if you don't bet it.
Owosekun for the win!
The odds
are ten to one.
Place your bets now.
Michael's here.
What? How?
She guessed
this is where I'd go.
The Federation
has no authority here.
I didn't think she'd risk it.
She's gonna try to buy
the isolynium out from under us.
Fight!
- I doubt she'll have enough
to get a sandwich,
seeing how that's going.
She always finds a way.
So if you could manage
to help find the cheaters ASAP,
I'd appreciate that.
Does it look
like I'm having fun here?
Had to get into the mindset.
I had to see
the action up close.
- Found another cog
in your network,
- by the way. You're welcome.
His variances
between his large and small bets
is far too sporadic.
Plus, look at his eyes.
Pardon me
if I mispronounce this,
but you were right.
That is how they signal
each other.
Thanks for the drink.
It's a Changeling.
The network is a ring of one.
Blinking must be a nervous tic.
Everybody's got a tell.
Keep on him.
I'll put together
a little something
to make sure he can't get away.
Ato Kurr has...
That's enough. We're done here.
I'm not quitting.
I'm not letting you
get killed.
- He's twice your size.
You can't win.
You don't get
- to decide this for me.
- Please.
Let's just cut our losses.
- Come on!
- Fine! Okay! Okay. Okay,
- rematch. Last one. All in.
We have ourselves a rematch.
Odds coming in
at 45 to one.
- Okay.
Place your bets now.
I want the money line.
Bet it all on Owosekun.
Someone should teach you
when to quit.
Someone should teach you
and your friend some manners.
Fight!
Finish him!
45 to one,
your winner:
Joann "Oh Wow" Owosekun!
We need to move. Now.
You can't rush genius.
Congratulations.
Everyone's a winner
on Haz Mazaro's Karma Barge.
Do you want a bag?
Because there's more.
Actually,
you can just send it all to Haz.
Actually, we'll take it.
You hustled us.
You don't want to do that.
You definitely don't want
to do that.
- Thanks for the assist. Yeah.
- My pleasure.
- Want me to, uh...?
- Nah.
I got it.
Ouch.
Ooh!
- I see where the Right Hook
comes from.
Changeling.
Could use an assist myself.
What in the katterpod
and Calaman sherry
- is going on here?
- We've got your latinum.
- We got your cheater.
- Looks like we got a draw.
- You should have more
than enough for the isolynium.
- Doesn't matter.
Latinum talks, Haz.
He already agreed.
We saved you more
- than I could've
possibly owed you.
- And you
should hear this loud and clear.
And you always liked me more...
- Enough!
- That Changeling
would've ripped you off
for months.
While you two
were strutting around
like Klingons in a disco,
I reached out
to some of my regulars
and found two who'd be happy
to take the isolynium
off your hands
so you can get back
to your relationship whatnot.
There are many ways we can solve
this conundrum, but I thought,
in honor of how I met you,
we should settle it in
the traditional courier fashion
with a game of Leonian Poker.
We had a deal, Haz.
My raft, my rules.
You want the isolynium or not?
I'm in.
Then so am I.
Delightful.
Usual rules apply.
Your latinum buys you in.
I keep all of that, of course.
The winner gets the isolynium.
The rest get nothing.
Drop out? Still nothing.
Act like an Armus?
Swim the Porathian Ocean
with weighted boots.
Any questions?
Yes.
For a, uh, a gamble this big,
shouldn't we each get a chance
to verify the quality of goods?
Fair enough.
You first.
You know who those two are,
right?
Emerald Chain holdouts
hoping to be the next Osyraa.
Yeah, I know.
Yeah, so, we don't agree
on a lot of things right now,
but we both know
they cannot get the isolynium.
I don't plan
on losing it to them.
Or to you, for that matter.
You're great at Leonian Poker.
You're a hell of a lot better
than me.
But you're no sure thing.
No one is.
- So?
- So,
you remember Schaefer Colony?
Mm-hmm.
Odds can be modified
if we work together.
Next!
I got your pretty star pictures.
I knew you'd come through.
Want a Tetryonic Dosimeter
to measure potency?
- No, thank you.
Isolynium has the same
metallic luster as pyrite,
and its crystals are equant,
meaning they have
roughly equal dimensions.
When cut with impurities,
opacity and shape
are affected, so...
Learn a lot of useful things
as a courier.
This is the real deal.
I don't know what's happening
between you two,
and I've never really been much
for love,
but for what it's worth,
I hope it still works out.
Now for the fifth stretch.
Last bet on the hand.
And as the saying goes,
to the Souvlo goes the spud.
Wow!
Spices things up a bit.
Check.
How are you folks doing?
Things going well
in the intimidation industry?
Bet. 10,000.
You know,
I've played this guy before.
He's good,
but he has a tell.
Rubs his ear on a good hand.
Call.
Oh, what to do?
What to do? What to do?
You know, I...
I played a game once
at Schaefer Colony.
There-there was this guy
who bet it all
on a new wardrobe,
thinking it was his night,
only to go home
in the emperor's new clothes
on a flush draw.
Not that anybody
was complaining.
Well, looks like I'm all talk.
Let's see it.
Great action
in those Schaefer Colony games.
♪
- I'll raise.
Just a little one.
Little baby bet, yeah?
I'm stunned, too.
Who would've thought,
with a four and a six...?
It's the best night of my life.
I don't...
They make a pretty good team.
I'd be sweating a little
if I were you.
And you are?
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun.
Tell me,
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun,
what's your opinion
of what Book and I are doing?
I assume
you toe the company line?
I actually understand
why you saw this as a way to go.
- Hmm.
- Still a gigantic risk.
Hoping it doesn't blow back
on all of us.
And to do this against
the advice and will of so many
takes a hell of a big ego, no?
I'm not surprised
you think that.
What is it, then?
You're the Federation's
genius darling.
Why throw it all away?
Makes no damn sense.
I couldn't care less what
the Federation thinks of me.
It's not about them.
So who is it about, then?
Someone who's gone?
Died?
So this is, what, revenge?
You're getting back at someone?
Or keeping a promise, maybe,
to that someone who died.
Okay, you're boring me.
Go stand somewhere else.
I know what it is
to lose someone.
You can choose to make
something good come out of it.
There are varying degrees
of loss,
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun.
And if you could feel
the weight of mine,
if only for a fleeting moment,
you'd reconsider
how much choice one has
with regards
to what comes out of it.
I don't appreciate bad behavior
at my table.
Goodbye.
Now for the Battle
of Bygone Love.
You know if you win this,
and you take that isolynium,
every bridge you have ever built
will be incinerated instantly.
The bridge between us--
will that be gone, too?
You'd leave me no choice.
Starfleet will come after you
with everything they've got.
I'll be one of the tools
they use.
Doesn't have to be like that.
We can end this.
Let's end this.
All right.
Let's end it.
The bet's to you, Michael.
All in.
Straight.
Flush.
Congratulations, Glow-Worm.
I'm sorry.
Sacrifice is always heavy.
And though doing it for
the right reasons should help,
it never does.
In time, I do believe Burnham
and others will understand.
Maybe.
The only thing
that would be worse
is that sacrifice done
for nothing.
Hmm.
So let's do
what we came here to do--
end the DMA.
For good.
As I understood it,
you were gathering data
for first contact
and doing nothing else.
I was there to acquire
a rare set of stellar surveys.
Thought it would shed some light
on what's located
at the 10-C's coordinates.
They're being analyzed now.
Did I hope to run into Book
in the process?
Yes, that is also true.
I can't help but be impressed
by your ability
to navigate a loophole, Captain.
Wouldn't be surprised if you had
some inspiration, either.
I am troubled, however,
that you were not able
to make your loophole count.
You should have found a way to
drag Booker and Tarka back here.
With respect, Madam President,
she was outside
Federation territory,
without a weapon, without
a badge, without authority.
Be that as it may, she literally
bet it all, and lost.
Not quite. Book is incredible
at Leonian Poker,
so going into the game, I
already knew that I would lose.
So, I made the best play
that I could with the hand
that I was dealt.
When cut with impurities,
opacity and shape
are affected, so...
I planted a tracker.
Same kind Starfleet put
in dilithium shipments
back when deliveries were
being stolen.
And as you may remember,
Madam President,
the signal can be detected
from multiple sectors away.
Not many people have the ability
to surprise me, Captain Burnham.
I won't deny
what Book means to me.
But I also won't compromise
my commitment
to the safety of the
Federation and everyone in it.
They're not moving.
Tarka's assembling the weapon.
We'll only have one shot
at surprising them.
It has to count.
We'll begin mission-planning
immediately.
Apologies for the interruption,
Admiral,
but Commander Stamets
has something very important
to show you.
It cannot wait.
This is what we found
at the species' coordinates.
Their
technological capabilities
are beyond
our wildest assumptions.
How do you conclude that
from this?
It looks like a... blob.
Natural astrophysical objects
emit a broad spectrum
of black body radiation.
This does not.
Therefore,
it can only be artificial.
And, whatever it is,
it's 228 million kilometers
in radius.
That's enough
to contain a host star
with two
or three orbiting bodies.
Any signals being emitted
from inside of this thing?
None that we can register.
The structure--
a hyperfield of some kind--
seems to function
as some sort of Faraday cage.
We have no way
of knowing what's inside.
Must be astronomical,
the amount of energy
required to maintain that.
Where would
all that energy come from?
Zora, analyze the areas
of space left behind
after the DMA changed location.
What are you thinking?
The remaining gases
and elements should all fall
within known
statistical parameters,
but if something specific
is missing, like boronite...
Boronite. Of course!
Mr. Saru, if you don't mind?
Boronite is an element
that forms naturally,
albeit
in infinitesimal quantities.
In sufficient amounts, however,
it can be synthesized
into some of the most powerful
substances in existence.
Would there be enough energy
for this hyperfield of theirs?
And then some.
Your hypothesis was correct,
Captain.
There's no trace of boronite
at any
of the DMA's
prior known locations.
The DMA removed it.
They mined it.
That's the purpose of the DMA.
That's why it seems
to move so randomly.
It's not a weapon.
It's a dredge.
If the DMA is
their mining equipment,
we can only imagine
what their weapons are like.
And if their power supply is
threatened,
it will almost certainly be seen
as a hostile act.
Booker and Tarka
must be stopped.
Whatever the cost.
I know.
Captioning sponsored by
CBS
♪
♪
Star Trek: Discovery...
Pull up Kwejian
on the deep-space array.
What happened?
- My ship was hit by something.
They're gone.
Five light-years across.
That's the size
of the gravitational anomaly
that hit Kwejian.
The DMA disappeared.
It reappeared 4.2 seconds later,
1,000 light-years away.
The only logical explanation
is someone created it.
For now, we're classifying
those responsible
as Unknown Species Ten-C.
Thank you, Commander,
for reaching toward me.
What are those?
- The coordinates.
- To Species Ten-C.
- I'm struggling.
The DMA has brought up
a lot of, uh, uncertainty.
You are only human.
If you don't find fulfillment
in something other than work,
then you will fail those
in the chair in front of you.
And I designed this.
A weapon capable
of destroying the DMA.
A "cascading subspace burst"
sounds a lot like the result
of an isolytic explosion.
My proposal carries some risk,
but not nearly as much
as doing nothing.
We need to defend ourselves.
If we make first contact
peacefully,
then we can determine intent
before we act.
Introducing the next generation
spore drive.
We have 94 seconds
before they realize it's gone
and figure out I'm the one
who took it.
Next part's all you.
Book. No.
I need Booker's ship found.
Scramble every available vessel.
Eisenberg class, shuttle,
I don't care.
They've stolen classified tech.
Do we have any idea where it is?
Negative, sir. It spore-jumped.
- Any idea where it's headed?
- Not yet, sir.
All available personnel
are looking.
Can anyone please tell me,
how the hell did our prototype
get out in the first place?
Security requires dual
authorization, does it not?
Yes, sir.
It has dual authorization.
Uh, Ruon Tarka entered
his code somehow
in conjunction with, uh...
...yours, sir.
Admiral.
I'll ask you both just once.
Did you have any idea
this was coming?
No, Madam President.
- Okay, then,
how did you have no idea
it was coming?
Tarka was your guy, Admiral.
Handpicked.
You gave him free reign.
Barely any oversight.
And it is one thing to miss
the capacity
for criminal misbehavior
in a professional relationship,
but yours was also personal.
I knew Book was struggling,
but he... he gave no indication
that he would do
something like this.
Hmm.
That spore drive technology
is the closest we have come
to ending
our dilithium dependence.
If word gets out that
the only functional prototype
has been stolen,
it will threaten everything.
Including trust
that we have the ability
to pull off this monumental
first contact mission
that you just helped to sell
a few hours ago.
That doesn't even
take into account
the risk we now run of provoking
a highly advanced species
who are capable
of destroying us all,
if Booker and Tarka succeed.
With all due respect, ma'am,
he's a good man
who's not thinking clearly.
He's grieving, he's-he's dealing
with unimaginable loss.
He thinks he's preventing
another Kwejian.
We are trying to prevent
something even worse.
I can get him to see that
before it's too late.
In order to build
an isolytic weapon,
Tarka needs isolynium.
That's a black-market element
that is not easy to track down.
That buys us time to find them.
Discovery's primary repairs
are done.
We can leave immediately.
I know you want to help,
Captain.
But you're too close to this.
You cannot be involved.
I'm told Intelligence
has identified four vendors
who are believed to have access
to isolynium.
I'm deploying ships
to all locations
with orders to detain
Booker and Tarka on sight.
Good. In the meantime, I'd ask
that Discovery gather data
on Species Ten-C.
We have to prepare
for a first contact,
provided our rogue associates
don't beat us to it.
I agree.
You have your orders,
Captain Burnham.
Dismissed.
So, how'd it feel?
The spore drive.
The interface. Efficiency.
Hit me. Come on, you're
the first real beta tester.
- It's impressive.
- Oh, come on, now.
Specifics.
It works.
It'll help us stop the DMA.
That's all that matters to me.
Can't fault your honesty.
We're safe for now,
out of scanner range.
How long do you need
to build the weapon?
24 hours should do it.
- She's hailing you again.
Yeah. And there's this, too.
Well, it's not the most
flattering picture of me,
but you, you look fantastic.
It's not lost on me, what
you're giving up to do this.
It's worth it, whatever
my sentence turns out to be.
Your sentence?
Once billions of lives
are saved, you'll be a hero.
That's not how
the Federation works.
You had half the assembly
eating out of your hand.
- We still lost the vote.
- Rillak's a political animal.
Once the DMA is gone,
she'll face political pressure
to pardon us.
She'll find a way to explain
that, in this case,
the ends justified the means.
Let's just worry about saving
the billions of lives first.
Okay?
Very well.
Once you've secured us
some isolynium,
- I can finish
the third phase of...
- Wait, what?
You made it sound like
you knew exactly how to get it.
I was counting
on the Federation's help.
- We don't have that now.
- Unbelievable.
What's the issue here?
I thought couriers
could find anything.
Buying something
that's dangerous and rare
is never easy, especially
with Starfleet on our asses.
I know a place
that won't be on their radar.
But it's gonna cost us.
See? That's the spirit.
And don't worry,
cost won't be an issue.
- Come.
Admiral.
I first met Ruon Tarka
when he was giving a lecture
ten years ago.
One of the most brilliant minds
I've ever encountered.
He had all these ideas
for new propulsion systems
and power sources.
Made it sound like
anything was possible.
And I believed him.
I still do.
I keep asking myself,
why would he do this?
What am I missing?
Sir, I wish I had answers.
Maybe Tarka couldn't handle the
council voting down his plan?
He has quite the ego...
...but I don't think that's it.
I just got my family back,
Captain.
The thought that I will have
to send them away again,
for their protection, because
someone I brought into the fold
might invite a war that
we couldn't possibly win...
We will figure this out.
And I will do everything in my
power to help make things right.
I think we can both agree
that Booker's not foolish enough
to buy isolynium
from any of the known suspects.
Sir, you and President Rillak
were pretty clear.
Yes, and it's very important for
the Federation president and I
to present a united front,
so I would never
publicly contradict her.
But I can take a page
out of her own book
and encourage you,
as one of the most creative
and adept officers
in my service,
to do everything you can
to stop them
within the parameters
of the mission you were given.
You find a way, Captain Burnham.
That's also an order.
♪
♪
♪
Well, the president wants us
to make first contact
sooner rather than later.
What have we found
at the coordinates?
Uh, Commander Stamets
was just updating me.
But may I say first,
we support you, Captain.
We all do.
And, uh,
we hope Book's okay.
Thank you.
What have we got?
Well, unfortunately, not much.
Data on what lies
beyond the galactic barrier
is extremely limited.
That gap in the center?
Is that where the Ten-C
are located?
Well, um, like I said,
it's limited.
But the orbit of
the extra galactic stars nearby
indicate a significant
gravitational presence.
There's definitely
something there.
To find out what,
we'll need a visual on the area.
Any idea how to do that?
- Zora?
Yes, Commander Stamets.
I may have something.
The sphere data has records
of a civilization
located 30 light-years away
from these coordinates,
just inside
the galactic barrier.
The Stilph.
They're warp-capable.
So they're advanced enough
and close enough
that their standard
stellar surveys
should cover the area we need.
Zora, has the Federation ever
crossed paths with the Stilph?
No. And no diplomatic
relations exist.
But they've dealt with
the Orions in the past.
Mm. Rather complicated
intermediaries.
We don't have
to go through them.
I know a broker on Porathia.
He has relationships
with everyone.
He can get us what we need.
A broker?
He's an old friend.
I will have to make
the request myself.
Keep combing through
for more data points
- in the meantime.
- Yes, Captain.
I'd be happy to complete
that task myself.
It is perhaps more tedious
than is worthy of your time.
Thank you.
Uh, I'd appreciate that.
Mr. Saru?
I'm bringing Commander Owosekun
to verify the surveys.
The Federation
isn't exactly welcome
on Porathia,
so once we jump there,
Discovery will need
to keep its distance.
We'll take a shuttle down.
Captain, am I correct
in assuming that this broker
is from your courier days
with Mr. Booker?
Yes.
And are President Rillak
and Admiral Vance aware
that you are planning
to pursue him?
You don't miss much, do you?
Only when sleep-deprived.
Vance unofficially ordered me
to kill two birds
with one stone.
And I believe this broker
is where Book will go
to get the isolynium.
I see.
You think I'm too close to this?
I believe there is no one else
who could possibly convince
Mr. Booker to correct his path,
but I do not envy your position
should he refuse.
I'll be back as soon as I can.
Uh, be safe, Captain.
Above all.
Welcome to Haz Mazaro's
Karma Barge.
We're gonna need
to make this fast.
Not what I was expecting
when you said
we'd find isolynium here.
There's nothing Haz won't
take bets on in the front
or sell in the back.
He'll have it.
Or know someone who does.
Charming place.
I should probably mention
that we didn't part
on the greatest of terms.
Do I need to know
the particulars?
Only that it was something
I did on my own.
Hopefully he's forgotten,
'cause it doesn't look
like a good day to be here.
Empty out your pockets.
Show me your hands.
Nothing. See?
Always wondered where Emerald
Chain dimwits went to die.
Listen, Haz is fun
until he's not.
So let me do the talking.
Think of me as a shadow.
♪
Haz know you?
Tell him it's Glow-Worm.
Glow-Worm? Hmm.
Glow-Worm!
A swamp cat could've
learned the Hortan Hustle
since I last saw you.
Seems like good terms to me.
Your timing's perfect.
I'm having a special
on Devore scanners
and modified scan deflectors.
Who's Mr. Personality?
My shadow.
- Where's Michael?
- Not here, obviously.
Come on, tell your buddy Haz.
What's the what with you two?
Still none of your business.
Look, I'm here for
something important, okay?
This Devore scanner
couldn't pick out
a Betazoid standing
all alone in a Nieser cage.
Apologies for my associate.
His filter was taken from him
by cognition pirates. Very sad.
I'm here for isolynium.
Heavy stuff.
Why, exactly,
do you need it?
Chatty as always, I see.
Not that I mind.
Each to his own,
- her own, their own,
all the things.
- Hmm.
I do happen to have access.
But it'll cost you
more than that.
We need proof it's pure.
Not the usual stuff
cut with sammonium.
Pay first, inspect later.
Shadow.
Take it all.
- We have a deal?
- I'll take your latinum,
but we don't have a deal.
Old score to settle.
Or did you forget?
Course not. But it wasn't on me.
I warned Ertel to stop
delivering Tranceworms.
It was dangerous business.
It wasn't,
until you stole his cargo
and he spent six months
trying to get back his losses.
Cost me my best customer
in the meantime.
I'd say that about covers it.
- We need the isolynium, Haz.
Weren't you listening?
I said not without more latinum.
It'll take a few days.
We don't have a few days.
Sorry, Glow-Worm.
Nice seeing you, though.
Give Michael a hug for me.
Haz. Haz, wait, wait. Wait!
Your guys out there,
they're looking for crooks
or card counters, right?
Detection tech hasn't worked.
I can't even tell you
how many are in the ring.
So you got nothing to lose
by letting us try.
You keep the latinum,
we get the isolynium.
Win-win.
You got yourself a deal.
But jab a brussel fly,
and I'll scoot some greenbread.
Clear?
Crystal.
The casino
is a dead zone by design,
so all of our weapons,
tech and comms
have to be checked at the door.
The Federation has no authority
on Porathia,
so we'll be on our own.
And there may be
a few surprises.
I-I'm not sure.
Any questions?
Just one.
You can verify
stellar surveys yourself.
Why bring me?
Saru told me what happened
at the subspace rift.
How you didn't want to
stand down when he told you to.
I was totally out of bounds.
I-I apologized to him.
I know.
But I also know how it feels
to want to do something.
Anything.
And how it feels when you can't.
Thank you.
♪
Just wait for it.
- We're here.
"Karma barge"?
- Friendly bunch.
- Always.
Watch yourselves, Starfleet.
Oh, we're good. Don't worry.
I heard we had Starfleet guests,
so I just had to scurry
like a spider cow
to welcome you.
- Right Hook?
Starfleet Captain Right Hook?
Tale for another time.
This is
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun.
This is Haz Mazaro.
I feel like I'm in
a time warp today.
So, uh, are you here
as part of Starfleet?
Or are we still friends?
Both. Both.
Here to buy some
extra galactic stellar surveys
from a civilization
called the Stilph.
They've had some run-ins
with the Orions.
I may know an Orion or two.
But why would you want
pictures of stars?
Stars are pretty.
Everyone
is so secretive nowadays.
I have missed you
like a Cardassian misses cake.
Unfortunately,
that won't be enough.
Ah.
And yet she remembers
the way to his heart.
It's true what the Elasians say.
Give a man a tor-bak,
and you are warm in the desert.
Anything else you need,
- it's yours.
- How about isolynium?
The plot thickens.
You said anything else I need.
Should be enough latinum
to cover it.
Sadly, the price goes up
with multiple bidders,
and there's already
someone else in play.
But perhaps you knew that.
- Is the other bidder here now?
- He might be
sniffing out some vermin for me.
Which gives you two lovelies
a chance to hit
the tables. See if you can
at least double that.
I'll get your star charts.
Open 'em up.
Let's get some tables going
in here
- while I'm out.
A new room is now open!
It's Book, isn't it?
The other bidder.
I had a hunch,
but I wasn't certain.
- If you want to wait
in the shuttle...
- No.
I'm in.
All the way.
And, for what it's worth,
there's no way you could have
seen this coming.
Thank you, Owo.
All right. Let's do this.
Haz said his detection tech
couldn't find the cheaters.
What makes you think
that thing will?
Given
the obsolete kernel patches
on the translators
he was hawking,
I wouldn't put any faith
in Mr. Mazaro's judgment
of what technology can
or cannot do.
Lots of possible cheats in here.
Pickpockets.
Card counters.
And that guy.
Check out his eyes.
Where?
I lost them. Their eyes
were locked on the deck,
and they had this
rhythmic blink, like a signal.
Maybe it's how they communicate.
Good. That's good.
- I'll be back.
- Hey. What?
We need to talk.
How did you find me?
You really need to ask?
You shouldn't be here.
Neither should you.
Whatever Tarka did or said
to sell you on this
doesn't matter now.
Just come back
while you still can.
If you take the isolynium
off the market
and out of Tarka's hands,
you could earn some grace
with the Federation.
They'll understand
how you got pulled into this.
I wasn't pulled into anything.
Tarka and I came to this
together, okay?
- You broke a half dozen laws.
- That's what it takes
to stop that thing
from killing more people.
But that's... That's not how...
This isn't the way.
When you first met me,
I had just hijacked
someone else's cargo
to save an endangered species.
Are you really surprised
by this, Michael?
If you buy that isolynium,
you'll be crossing a line
you cannot come back from.
You should leave, Michael.
Okay? Just go back,
say you never saw me.
I can't do that.
Then what are you gonna do?
Stop you.
If you like a challenge,
we need challengers!
I was just telling
your associate
that the stellar surveys
won't be an issue,
but, uh, they'll take time.
No problem.
We have some other business
to attend to, anyway.
Haz, how much do you want
to take the isolynium
out of play?
Three times what you have now.
Fine. I just need access
- to a comms channel.
- Ah.
Last thing I need
is more Starfleet sweeping in,
no offense, and that's
exactly what'll happen
when they find out Book's here.
I monitor Federation channels.
I know what's what.
Then you know
you cannot sell him
- the isolynium.
Sure I can.
Unless I sell it to you.
I'm a banta tree either way.
Book's not gonna
change his mind, is he?
Which means we need to score
a lot of latinum-- fast.
♪
Got an idea.
It's a little crazy.
Visit us up here
at the fight ring,
and we'll match your first bet
up to five slips.
- Um... Hugh?
- The ship cleans for us.
- Yeah, well...
sometimes,
it needs a little zhuzh.
No! How many times
do I have to say it?
Return to dock!
You're stressed.
- I'm not stressed.
- You're also cleaning.
Ergo, stressed.
Just... clearing my head.
Is this about Book?
He was
in a volatile emotional state,
and I didn't do enough.
This is what Kovich
was warning me about.
Pushing myself.
Wearing myself out.
Failing people.
What he did is not on you.
But it is. I'm responsible
for the psychological
and emotional health
of everyone on board this ship.
Book included.
You know
that's a completely unreasonable
expectation to bear.
You can't solve
your patients' problems.
All you can do is help them
find their own answers.
I know that. I do. I just...
It's all I can think about.
What I could've
done differently.
Hugh, listen to me.
I get anxiety.
I mean, right now,
I'm-I'm toggling between the DMA
and how Gray is settling in
to life on Trill.
Is Book okay, wherever he is?
And let's not forget
about how badly
I handled the situation
with Zora, so...
It's not the same as yours,
but it all comes
from the same place:
uncertainty.
Which is terrifying.
So, let's be terrified together.
Kovich said you need to take
some time for yourself, right?
The holodeck just got updated
with the Venabalia bloom
from Salata Major,
so how about we take
a little stroll
through a field full of flowers
for a bit?
I'd like that.
Are you sure about this?
Things are gonna be heating up
in the ring soon, folks.
You won't want to miss it.
Place your bets now!
Don't miss your chance
to score
on Joann "Oh Wow" Owosekun,
the most ferocious fighter
this side of Felton Prime!
Two to one odds are a steal,
folks. Double your money now.
We have one rule.
First one to hit the mat loses.
How you get there
is up to you.
- Fight!
That's right, keep your feet.
Limit vulnerabilities.
You got this.
Come on!
Wait for your moment!
At two-to-one,
your winner,
Ato Kurr!
- I want another shot.
- I don't think
that's a good idea.
We need the win.
Come on, let me try.
I can do this.
Who's gonna finally...
- Come on.
That was just a warm-up, folks!
Don't miss out on the rematch.
You'll regret it
if you don't bet it.
Owosekun for the win!
The odds
are ten to one.
Place your bets now.
Michael's here.
What? How?
She guessed
this is where I'd go.
The Federation
has no authority here.
I didn't think she'd risk it.
She's gonna try to buy
the isolynium out from under us.
Fight!
- I doubt she'll have enough
to get a sandwich,
seeing how that's going.
She always finds a way.
So if you could manage
to help find the cheaters ASAP,
I'd appreciate that.
Does it look
like I'm having fun here?
Had to get into the mindset.
I had to see
the action up close.
- Found another cog
in your network,
- by the way. You're welcome.
His variances
between his large and small bets
is far too sporadic.
Plus, look at his eyes.
Pardon me
if I mispronounce this,
but you were right.
That is how they signal
each other.
Thanks for the drink.
It's a Changeling.
The network is a ring of one.
Blinking must be a nervous tic.
Everybody's got a tell.
Keep on him.
I'll put together
a little something
to make sure he can't get away.
Ato Kurr has...
That's enough. We're done here.
I'm not quitting.
I'm not letting you
get killed.
- He's twice your size.
You can't win.
You don't get
- to decide this for me.
- Please.
Let's just cut our losses.
- Come on!
- Fine! Okay! Okay. Okay,
- rematch. Last one. All in.
We have ourselves a rematch.
Odds coming in
at 45 to one.
- Okay.
Place your bets now.
I want the money line.
Bet it all on Owosekun.
Someone should teach you
when to quit.
Someone should teach you
and your friend some manners.
Fight!
Finish him!
45 to one,
your winner:
Joann "Oh Wow" Owosekun!
We need to move. Now.
You can't rush genius.
Congratulations.
Everyone's a winner
on Haz Mazaro's Karma Barge.
Do you want a bag?
Because there's more.
Actually,
you can just send it all to Haz.
Actually, we'll take it.
You hustled us.
You don't want to do that.
You definitely don't want
to do that.
- Thanks for the assist. Yeah.
- My pleasure.
- Want me to, uh...?
- Nah.
I got it.
Ouch.
Ooh!
- I see where the Right Hook
comes from.
Changeling.
Could use an assist myself.
What in the katterpod
and Calaman sherry
- is going on here?
- We've got your latinum.
- We got your cheater.
- Looks like we got a draw.
- You should have more
than enough for the isolynium.
- Doesn't matter.
Latinum talks, Haz.
He already agreed.
We saved you more
- than I could've
possibly owed you.
- And you
should hear this loud and clear.
And you always liked me more...
- Enough!
- That Changeling
would've ripped you off
for months.
While you two
were strutting around
like Klingons in a disco,
I reached out
to some of my regulars
and found two who'd be happy
to take the isolynium
off your hands
so you can get back
to your relationship whatnot.
There are many ways we can solve
this conundrum, but I thought,
in honor of how I met you,
we should settle it in
the traditional courier fashion
with a game of Leonian Poker.
We had a deal, Haz.
My raft, my rules.
You want the isolynium or not?
I'm in.
Then so am I.
Delightful.
Usual rules apply.
Your latinum buys you in.
I keep all of that, of course.
The winner gets the isolynium.
The rest get nothing.
Drop out? Still nothing.
Act like an Armus?
Swim the Porathian Ocean
with weighted boots.
Any questions?
Yes.
For a, uh, a gamble this big,
shouldn't we each get a chance
to verify the quality of goods?
Fair enough.
You first.
You know who those two are,
right?
Emerald Chain holdouts
hoping to be the next Osyraa.
Yeah, I know.
Yeah, so, we don't agree
on a lot of things right now,
but we both know
they cannot get the isolynium.
I don't plan
on losing it to them.
Or to you, for that matter.
You're great at Leonian Poker.
You're a hell of a lot better
than me.
But you're no sure thing.
No one is.
- So?
- So,
you remember Schaefer Colony?
Mm-hmm.
Odds can be modified
if we work together.
Next!
I got your pretty star pictures.
I knew you'd come through.
Want a Tetryonic Dosimeter
to measure potency?
- No, thank you.
Isolynium has the same
metallic luster as pyrite,
and its crystals are equant,
meaning they have
roughly equal dimensions.
When cut with impurities,
opacity and shape
are affected, so...
Learn a lot of useful things
as a courier.
This is the real deal.
I don't know what's happening
between you two,
and I've never really been much
for love,
but for what it's worth,
I hope it still works out.
Now for the fifth stretch.
Last bet on the hand.
And as the saying goes,
to the Souvlo goes the spud.
Wow!
Spices things up a bit.
Check.
How are you folks doing?
Things going well
in the intimidation industry?
Bet. 10,000.
You know,
I've played this guy before.
He's good,
but he has a tell.
Rubs his ear on a good hand.
Call.
Oh, what to do?
What to do? What to do?
You know, I...
I played a game once
at Schaefer Colony.
There-there was this guy
who bet it all
on a new wardrobe,
thinking it was his night,
only to go home
in the emperor's new clothes
on a flush draw.
Not that anybody
was complaining.
Well, looks like I'm all talk.
Let's see it.
Great action
in those Schaefer Colony games.
♪
- I'll raise.
Just a little one.
Little baby bet, yeah?
I'm stunned, too.
Who would've thought,
with a four and a six...?
It's the best night of my life.
I don't...
They make a pretty good team.
I'd be sweating a little
if I were you.
And you are?
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun.
Tell me,
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun,
what's your opinion
of what Book and I are doing?
I assume
you toe the company line?
I actually understand
why you saw this as a way to go.
- Hmm.
- Still a gigantic risk.
Hoping it doesn't blow back
on all of us.
And to do this against
the advice and will of so many
takes a hell of a big ego, no?
I'm not surprised
you think that.
What is it, then?
You're the Federation's
genius darling.
Why throw it all away?
Makes no damn sense.
I couldn't care less what
the Federation thinks of me.
It's not about them.
So who is it about, then?
Someone who's gone?
Died?
So this is, what, revenge?
You're getting back at someone?
Or keeping a promise, maybe,
to that someone who died.
Okay, you're boring me.
Go stand somewhere else.
I know what it is
to lose someone.
You can choose to make
something good come out of it.
There are varying degrees
of loss,
Lieutenant Commander Owosekun.
And if you could feel
the weight of mine,
if only for a fleeting moment,
you'd reconsider
how much choice one has
with regards
to what comes out of it.
I don't appreciate bad behavior
at my table.
Goodbye.
Now for the Battle
of Bygone Love.
You know if you win this,
and you take that isolynium,
every bridge you have ever built
will be incinerated instantly.
The bridge between us--
will that be gone, too?
You'd leave me no choice.
Starfleet will come after you
with everything they've got.
I'll be one of the tools
they use.
Doesn't have to be like that.
We can end this.
Let's end this.
All right.
Let's end it.
The bet's to you, Michael.
All in.
Straight.
Flush.
Congratulations, Glow-Worm.
I'm sorry.
Sacrifice is always heavy.
And though doing it for
the right reasons should help,
it never does.
In time, I do believe Burnham
and others will understand.
Maybe.
The only thing
that would be worse
is that sacrifice done
for nothing.
Hmm.
So let's do
what we came here to do--
end the DMA.
For good.
As I understood it,
you were gathering data
for first contact
and doing nothing else.
I was there to acquire
a rare set of stellar surveys.
Thought it would shed some light
on what's located
at the 10-C's coordinates.
They're being analyzed now.
Did I hope to run into Book
in the process?
Yes, that is also true.
I can't help but be impressed
by your ability
to navigate a loophole, Captain.
Wouldn't be surprised if you had
some inspiration, either.
I am troubled, however,
that you were not able
to make your loophole count.
You should have found a way to
drag Booker and Tarka back here.
With respect, Madam President,
she was outside
Federation territory,
without a weapon, without
a badge, without authority.
Be that as it may, she literally
bet it all, and lost.
Not quite. Book is incredible
at Leonian Poker,
so going into the game, I
already knew that I would lose.
So, I made the best play
that I could with the hand
that I was dealt.
When cut with impurities,
opacity and shape
are affected, so...
I planted a tracker.
Same kind Starfleet put
in dilithium shipments
back when deliveries were
being stolen.
And as you may remember,
Madam President,
the signal can be detected
from multiple sectors away.
Not many people have the ability
to surprise me, Captain Burnham.
I won't deny
what Book means to me.
But I also won't compromise
my commitment
to the safety of the
Federation and everyone in it.
They're not moving.
Tarka's assembling the weapon.
We'll only have one shot
at surprising them.
It has to count.
We'll begin mission-planning
immediately.
Apologies for the interruption,
Admiral,
but Commander Stamets
has something very important
to show you.
It cannot wait.
This is what we found
at the species' coordinates.
Their
technological capabilities
are beyond
our wildest assumptions.
How do you conclude that
from this?
It looks like a... blob.
Natural astrophysical objects
emit a broad spectrum
of black body radiation.
This does not.
Therefore,
it can only be artificial.
And, whatever it is,
it's 228 million kilometers
in radius.
That's enough
to contain a host star
with two
or three orbiting bodies.
Any signals being emitted
from inside of this thing?
None that we can register.
The structure--
a hyperfield of some kind--
seems to function
as some sort of Faraday cage.
We have no way
of knowing what's inside.
Must be astronomical,
the amount of energy
required to maintain that.
Where would
all that energy come from?
Zora, analyze the areas
of space left behind
after the DMA changed location.
What are you thinking?
The remaining gases
and elements should all fall
within known
statistical parameters,
but if something specific
is missing, like boronite...
Boronite. Of course!
Mr. Saru, if you don't mind?
Boronite is an element
that forms naturally,
albeit
in infinitesimal quantities.
In sufficient amounts, however,
it can be synthesized
into some of the most powerful
substances in existence.
Would there be enough energy
for this hyperfield of theirs?
And then some.
Your hypothesis was correct,
Captain.
There's no trace of boronite
at any
of the DMA's
prior known locations.
The DMA removed it.
They mined it.
That's the purpose of the DMA.
That's why it seems
to move so randomly.
It's not a weapon.
It's a dredge.
If the DMA is
their mining equipment,
we can only imagine
what their weapons are like.
And if their power supply is
threatened,
it will almost certainly be seen
as a hostile act.
Booker and Tarka
must be stopped.
Whatever the cost.
I know.
Captioning sponsored by
CBS
♪
♪