Ep 13. Aquiel

Aquiel is the thirteenth episode of the sixth season of Star Trek: The Next Generation. It aired on February 5, 1993, and was directed by Cliff Bole. The episode follows the Enterprise crew as they investigate a mysterious distress signal from a remote Starfleet outpost located on a frozen tundra planet. Upon arrival, they discover that the only survivor of the outpost is Lieutenant Aquiel Uhnari, who is suspected of murdering her fellow officer.

As the Enterprise crew works to unravel the mystery surrounding the deserted outpost, they become increasingly convinced that Aquiel is not the culprit. Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge is sent to the planet's surface to retrieve Aquiel's logs and personal belongings for analysis, but he disappears without a trace. The crew must then race against time to uncover the truth behind the murders and find Geordi before it's too late.

The episode explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the impact of isolation on the human psyche. It also delves into issues of identity and the perception of others, as the crew grapples with the question of whether Aquiel Uhnari is truly who she appears to be.

The performances in this episode are particularly strong, with special recognition going to Renee Jones for her portrayal of Aquiel Uhnari and LeVar Burton for his portrayal of Geordi La Forge. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, and their scenes together are the highlight of the episode. The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, with standout moments from Patrick Stewart as Captain Picard and Jonathan Frakes as Commander Riker.

Overall, Aquiel is a suspenseful and thought-provoking episode that showcases the creativity and talent of the Star Trek: The Next Generation crew. It's a must-see for fans of the series and a great entry point for newcomers looking to experience the show's signature blend of sci-fi and social commentary.