Personally, I loved the story thread with the Defiant. I especially love that they took the broad strokes of the SCE story involving its recovery. I always loved that story.
I agree that the Nimbus III parts fell flat. But, it was nice to see a reason all three parties would continue sending diplomats that was better than, "it's there."
Over all, I liked it. The end of Ganz's story was good. I also agree that Quinn was portrayed very in character and will hopefully rise above it in the end.