Enfin, Les Sous-Ponts Abordent enfin la Relation de Tendi et Rutherford

Star Trek: Lower Decks finally addressed a highly anticipated character relationship in its latest episode, “Parth Ferengi’s Heart Place.” In this episode, the crew of the USS Cerritos embarks on a duty assignment on Ferengar, the homeworld of the formerly disliked aliens from The Next Generation. Their mission involves experiencing the local culture and recreational activities for the Starfleet travel guide. This assignment forces Lieutenants D’vana Tendi and Samanthan Rutherford to confront their feelings for each other.

Since the beginning of the series, there have been clear indications that the show’s creators want fans to ship Tendi and Rutherford. However, their relationship has remained platonic thus far. Episode 6, “Parth Ferengi’s Heart Place,” seems to acknowledge the desires of shippers by placing the characters in a “forced relationship” scenario, a common trope in fanfiction. This episode serves as a nod to the fans, assuring them that their desires are not forgotten.

Episode 6 Regresses the Lower Decks Characters Back to Season 1

“Parth Ferengi’s Heart Place” feels reminiscent of a Season 1 episode of Lower Decks. The core four characters are sent on a seemingly insignificant mission that barely impacts the overall plot. However, instead of the typical grunt work assigned to Ensigns, the characters’ recent promotions allow them to enjoy a more desirable assignment. Essentially, it’s an unofficial shore leave. Nevertheless, the characters react as they would have as Ensigns. Despite the growth and development they have undergone, they still possess their fundamental character flaws.

In contrast, Tendi and Rutherford showcase a regression in their characters. Although they have grown closer and more comfortable with each other over the seasons, they revert to their old awkwardness when pretending to be romantically involved. In Season 1, they knew little about each other. Now, they can no longer deny the romantic undertones in their friendship.

Commander Ransom May Have Set Rutherford and Tendi Up Intentionally

Part of the reason Mariner spirals in this episode is her discovery that Commander Ransom orchestrated their assignment. This favor to Tendi and Rutherford can be seen as part of Ransom’s unorthodox training approach, aiming to loosen up the bridge crew. It’s possible that he intended to create a scenario where Tendi and Rutherford would explore their romantic feelings. However, these characters don’t fit the typical Starfleet mold, as Lower Decks has consistently shown. Their discomfort with the “pretend” relationship highlights the fact that they are already in love with each other.

While some fans may hope for a romantic relationship between Tendi and Rutherford, the show’s history suggests otherwise. Star Trek series often avoid long-lasting relationships for its characters, opting for other pairings or avoiding romantic commitments altogether. Nonetheless, if Lower Decks continues beyond its fifth season, a romantic relationship between Tendi and Rutherford could bring emotional growth and fresh challenges to their characters.

Should Lower Decks Put Tendi and Rutherford Together Romantically?

Ultimately, the decision to put Tendi and Rutherford together romantically rests with the show’s creators. A relationship between the two would represent significant emotional growth and provide new avenues for storytelling. However, if the show does not explore their romance, it would allow fan artists and writers to imagine and create their love story. Shippers fear not only not getting their desired pairing, but also that if their wishes do come true, the storytellers may mishandle or ruin it. Lower Decks has successfully balanced being a workplace comedy and a proper Star Trek show. If any group can navigate the complexities of a romantic storyline, it’s the creators of Lower Decks.

Star Trek: Lower Decks continues to air new episodes on Paramount+ every Thursday.

Source : www.cbr.com