Really enjoyed this one, but also felt like it was trying to do too much. I probably could have done without the Genesis plot, which i felt needed it's own episode. Also the stuff with Darem should have been the sole storyline of the episode. I think it would have been great to meet his parents and family and see how his relationship with them impacts his personality and feelings about himself. We're not really given much time with either plot and the episode is also trying to propel and set up other plot points for the season. The season really should have been 13 episodes instead in 10. 10 episodes works well when your telling a season-long story like Disco but I think 13 works better with episodic storytelling.
I really liked the revelation that Genesis operates from fear and that she feels like she doesn't belong anywhere. This is a feeling i can identify and relevant to my own life at the moment. Ake's response that we are all wildly flawed was something I needed to hear. I hope we get further exploration of this side of Genesis.
Equally with Darem, I really identify with his family issues. The revelation that around his family, Darem is quiet and dutiful and just wants to make sure everyone is happy is really relatable to me. The stuff between Darem and Jay-den was compelling as well. I think it's clear by the end of the episode that Jay-den is having some feelings himself. It's also funny that Kyle is from the war college and trying to be a peacemaker with Darem, while the Academy cadet is being the antagonist. I feel like the rivalry between Darem and Kyle is going to come to a head in the next episode.
Overall, I appreciated the break after the trauma of last week and it had the same vibes as other 'calm after/before the storm' episodes like 'Family' and 'In the Cards'. But this really needed to be two separate episodes.
Honourable mentions to the adorable warp slugs and Ake being someone who crams luggage instead of neatly packing luggage.
