Ep 9. The Weeping Somnambulist

As the ninth episode of season two of The Expanse, titled "The Weeping Somnambulist," opens, tensions are running high both within the Rocinante crew and between the various factions vying for power in the Solar System. Holden, Naomi, and Alex are still reeling from their close encounter with the protomolecule on Ganymede, which nearly cost them their lives. Meanwhile, on Earth, UN Deputy Undersecretary Avasarala is scrambling to unravel the complex web of intrigue surrounding the protomolecule, as well as maintain the delicate balance of power between Earth, Mars, and the Belters.

Against this backdrop of uncertainty and danger, the crew of the Rocinante receives a distress signal from a civilian freighter, the Weeping Somnambulist, which has come under attack by a group of Belters. Although Holden initially hesitates to get involved, recognizing the potentially explosive nature of the situation, he ultimately decides that they have no choice but to investigate. However, when they arrive at the scene of the attack, they find that the situation is far more complicated and dangerous than they had anticipated.

As they board the Weeping Somnambulist, the crew of the Rocinante is met with suspicion and hostility from the surviving crew members. It quickly becomes clear that there is more going on than just a simple pirate attack. The captain of the freighter, Sakai, seems to be hiding something, and tensions between the remaining crew members are running high. Meanwhile, on the Rocinante, tensions between Naomi and Amos come to a head as they grapple with the aftermath of the Ganymede incident.

As the situation on the Weeping Somnambulist spirals out of control, with factions within the ship turning against each other, the crew of the Rocinante finds themselves caught in the crossfire. With their ship damaged and their own loyalties strained, Holden, Naomi, Alex, and Amos must find a way to navigate the complex web of relationships and motivations on the freighter if they hope to get out alive.

"The Weeping Somnambulist" is a tense and action-packed episode that showcases the strengths of The Expanse as a tightly plotted and character-driven show. The various factions and alliances within the Solar System are on full display, as are the complex web of motivations and loyalties that drive the various players. As always, the show's attention to detail and world-building is impressive, with the setting of the Weeping Somnambulist feeling fully realized and immersive.

The episode also continues to delve into the complex and often fraught relationships between the members of the Rocinante crew. Holden is grappling with the weight of responsibility and the consequences of his actions, while Naomi and Amos must confront the fallout from their actions on Ganymede. Meanwhile, Alex continues to serve as a steady presence who keeps the group grounded.

Overall, "The Weeping Somnambulist" is a thrilling and engaging episode of The Expanse that showcases the show's strengths. Fans of the series will find much to appreciate here, as the various plot threads and character arcs are expertly woven together to create a tense and satisfying narrative. As always, The Expanse delivers a nuanced, intelligent, and engaging viewing experience that will leave viewers eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this epic story.