‘The Ark’ Recap: ‘Cycle of Violence’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

THE ARK -- "Cycle of Violence" Episode 209 -- Pictured: (l-r) Reece Ritchie as Ian, Christie Burke as Lt. Sharon Garnet -- (Photo by: Aleksandar Letic/Ark TV Holdings, Inc./SYFY)

Caution: This article contains spoilers for Episode 209 of ‘The Ark’. To revisit the previous episode, click here.
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Often times, science fiction stories that are eager to explore what humanity could become if it were to leave old haunts behind and unify as a species… show us the end result of that quest, for several reasons. In part because seeing humanity at its best, informs us immediately that we can do it. We can put our differences aside and forget the small stuff and truly work toward a better tomorrow where all are equal, and it truly is inspiring to see that and even offers catharsis. Especially during these trying times where it seems as though, we might not ever find that unity. Because of how deeply entrenched people are in their belief that their side, is the right side. Which brings us to the other reason as to why that positive angle tends to be the focus of these stories.

Because we often forget… that sadly… to achieve that peace, great suffering must come into play. Wherein there is great conflict and great sacrifice before those beliefs fall, and unity is finally before us. Which makes these stories escapist to a certain degree, and it is why The Ark on SYFY continues to be a revolutionary science fiction series. Because it is willing to explore those difficult first days, where those fundamental battles happen before progress is made, as evidenced by this week’s episode. A feat that ‘Cycle of Violence’ accomplished by plunging us into an intense cat and mouse game. One that saw Ark 1 immediately on the run to escape the Eastern Federation, only to have them… tail our heroes to their next destination. Making it clear that the EF had some manner in which to track the ship. Which as it turned out, was the shuttle, and sadly, with both ships recharging their FTL drives… a scary standoff ensued.

One full of bluster and bravado and even weapons fire came into play. All because the EF wanted the shuttle back and wanted the late Bojan back aboard their ship. But thankfully, once there was a lull in the posturing, Captain Garnet had one hell of an idea. In that, this moment was the perfect time to engage in peace talks with the Eastern Federation and try to forge a better path forward than the mutually assured destruction both sides with toying with. A move that at first, seemed to be a titanic was of time. Because despite agreeing to risky terms, such as swapping crew members while Captain Zed Avega of the EF was aboard Ark 1, as insurance, there was no progress. Just constant bickering, constant distrust, even with Ian doing his best to keep things even keel. Which prompted Garnet to just… go for broke and speak from the heart, to finally get across what she wanted to get across.

Wherein she expressed that they were all that was left of humanity, and they had to start thinking differently to survive and move forward. And that message resonated deep with Zed, to the point where he agreed to a grand plan to have Ark 1 pave the path for them at the new colony. Because the cycle of violence did have to end, and unity had to come into play. But alas, that’s not a sentiment that was shared in this tale. Which brought about suffering and sacrifice. The kind that saw Zed take a knife from his first officer over betraying the principles of the EF, and saw Lieutenant Lane, suffer awful injuries in the ensuing take down to save Zed from a swift death. But alas, Zed was badly injured and in critical condition, and Lane was faring no better. That brought about a powerful discussion about how best to save this fragile peace since the EF ship was ready to open fire with their captain in danger.

So, Garnet made a tough choice based on Ian’s recommendation. In that, with Lane’s health spiraling, it was best to use his liver to save Zed… and while that did showcase a beautiful push forward toward lasting peace, the fight for it cost this crew one of their own, a real hero that was beloved by the fans as well. Making this a devastating episode, one that will stay with us for some time. In part because of its bold decision to kill off a fan favorite character, but also because of the powerful moments it showcased. For now, we know that peace has its price, and it is a high one, and sadly… that is how the path toward a utopia begins. But while that is bittersweet, it does make sense. Because we cannot understand what to cherish, without losing something wondrous. Until next time.

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