A mentor from Dal’s past persuades him to use their Federation cover for personal gain.

The novice crew of the Protostar tick off transporters and first contact this week in the animated introduction to the Star Trek universe. Significantly, Hologram Janeway is still troubled that she cannot remember what happened to the previous crew of the vessel.

The young ensigns are having fun beaming slices of pie around the deck before experimenting on the amorphous Murf (don’t worry, they’re fine!). Then comes a distress call from a widow needing assistance because her orphan children have the Phage. Dal recognises immediately they this is in truth a scam by his old mentor Nandi (Grey Griffin).

Nandi is a Ferengi, and by the end of the episode Dal’s eyes are opened to how poorly he was treated as a child, as well as the hurt caused by betrayal. Most importantly, the value of the Prime Directive of non-interference is brought to life.

Verdict: A sound episode, setting up a new villain and indications of where the show will go in its final episodes this part of the season. 7/10

Nick Joy