Star Trek: Discovery season 4 episode 12 Recap and FAQ

Episode Summary

Discovery's mission to communicate with Species Ten-C involves using hydrocarbons to convey emotions. They approach a hyperfield and are captured by an orb, which disables their systems. Inside, they encounter a life-form and decipher the Ten-C's unique language combining hydrocarbons, light patterns, and mathematics. Meanwhile, Tarka on Book's ship plans to disable the DMA's power source, posing a risk to Discovery and Earth. Reno covertly warns Discovery of the plan. The Ten-C show understanding and empathy in their communication, but the episode ends with the threat of Tarka's actions looming.

Full Episode S04E12 Recap

### Introduction - The USS Discovery is out of the galactic barrier and into extragalactic space. - The crew is pursuing first contact with Species Ten-C, who are hidden inside a hyperfield. ### Planning the Approach - Commander Stamets prepares a communication attempt using hydrocarbons to convey emotions. - Discovery approaches the hyperfield, releasing DOTs with hydrocarbons to signal peaceful intentions. ### Discovery Enclosed in an Orb - An orb captures Discovery, disabling its shields, engines, and weapons. - Inside the orb, the crew finds themselves in a replica of the bridge, with a life-form excreting molecules for communication. ### The Ten-C's Communication - The Ten-C communicate using complex hydrocarbons and light patterns. - Discovery's crew starts deciphering the Ten-C's language, combining mathematics and emotional cues. ### Tarka's Plan - Tarka, held in Book's ship, plans to disable the DMA's power source. - He manipulates Ndoye to assist him, despite risks to Discovery and Earth. ### Diplomatic Efforts - The crew communicates with the Ten-C, conveying their fear of the DMA. - The Ten-C respond, indicating understanding and empathy. ### The Threat of Tarka - Tarka ignites a plasma stream to escape the orb, with Book reluctantly aiding him. - Reno, secretly on Book's ship, warns Discovery of Tarka's dangerous plan. ### Conclusion - The Ten-C release Discovery from the orb due to the breach by Book's ship. - Reno alerts Discovery about Tarka's plan, urging them to stop it to prevent catastrophic consequences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the USS Discovery's mission in this episode?

The USS Discovery is on a mission to make first contact with Species Ten-C and investigate the hyperfield.

How does the crew attempt to communicate with Species Ten-C?

The crew uses hydrocarbon compounds to convey different emotions as a means of communication with Species Ten-C.

What happens when Discovery approaches the hyperfield?

Discovery is captured by an orb that disables its key systems, including shields, engines, and weapons.

What is the significance of the hydrocarbons in the episode?

Hydrocarbons are used both as a communication tool and as a way to understand the Ten-C's language, which combines emotional and mathematical elements.

How does the Ten-C communicate with the Discovery crew?

The Ten-C use a combination of light patterns and complex hydrocarbons to communicate.

What is Tarka's plan regarding the DMA's power source?

Tarka plans to disable the DMA's power source to stop the DMA and save Earth, but his method is risky and potentially destructive.

How does the crew start deciphering the Ten-C's language?

The crew analyzes the Ten-C's light patterns and hydrocarbons, treating them as a bridge language based on mathematics and emotions.

What is the response of the Ten-C to Discovery's communication?

The Ten-C demonstrate understanding and empathy towards the crew's fear of the DMA.

What are the risks of Tarka's plan?

Tarka's plan risks destroying the hyperfield, the Ten-C, Discovery, and creating a toxic void near Earth.

How does the crew learn about Tarka's plan?

Reno, being held on Book's ship, sends a message to Discovery informing them of Tarka's dangerous plan.

Star Trek: Discovery season 4 episode 12

Species Ten-C