Following up on the two-parter Scorpion, this episode continues the story by saying goodbye to Kes, and beginning Seven of Nine's journey on Voyager. This was one of my favorite Voyager episode, and it was genuinely emotional (it was also focused on a dialogue between 3 strong and compelling female characters - Janeway, Kes, and Seven). The parallels between Kes and Seven are powerful. While Kes has ended her time on Voyager - and is able to move on to become something "larger" - Seven has just begun her journey, on the ship and as an individual. Although others have criticized this episode for effectively "replacing" Kes with Seven, I think that was the point. Kes had reached the pinnacle of her individuality, while Seven is only just beginning to become an individual. Seven needs Voyager - she needs the community and support - but Kes does not.
All in all, a beautiful episode, and a beautiful goodbye to Jennifer Lien's Kes.
All in all, a beautiful episode, and a beautiful goodbye to Jennifer Lien's Kes.