The fifth episode of Star Wars Resistance's second season, entitled "The Engineer," was initially broadcast on Disney Channel on November 3, 2019.
The episode commences with a wide-angle view of the Colossus' command bridge. Imanuel Doza, the Captain, inquires of Jarek Yeager whether he has full confidence in Neeku Vozo's abilities. Doza states that restoring the scanners to operational status is of utmost importance, especially after their recent encounter with the First Order. Yeager acknowledges the urgency of the situation but assures Doza that Neeku is the most skilled engineer present on the platform.
Neeku encounters difficulties while attempting to repair the scanner, suggesting that it requires some fine-tuning. He requests that Kaz hand him the adjustable throttle. Kazuda Xiono struggles with the controls, prompting Neeku to decide to retrieve the throttle himself. The console reactivates, leading Kaz to believe that he has successfully repaired it. However, the console subsequently malfunctions. Neeku skillfully fine-tunes the controls, successfully reactivating the long-range scanners.
4D-M1N informs Captain Doza that the long-range scanner has been brought back online. Captain Doza expresses his gratitude to Neeku, who reciprocates the sentiment. Shortly thereafter, the long-range sensor detects a transmission. A Nikto female asserts that her vessel was attacked by the First Order and that her oxygen levels are critically low. She provides the coordinates of her location. Neeku identifies this as a distress signal, emphasizing the need for immediate assistance.
Yeager expresses caution, suspecting a potential trap. Kaz questions the possibility of it being genuine, while Neeku emphasizes the unlikelihood of encountering another vessel given their isolated location. He voices his concern that she may perish without assistance. Captain Doza acknowledges the inherent risk. Kaz offers to investigate, suggesting that Neeku continue his repairs in his absence. Neeku agrees, asserting that he does not require sleep. Doza consents, instructing Kaz to return promptly. Yeager advises Kaz to bring along someone proficient with a blaster. Kaz acknowledges that he has been practicing but complies. Before his departure, Neeku cautions Kaz to avoid disintegrating anyone.
Kaz and Synara San depart from the Colossus aboard a Star Commuter 2000 shuttle. Synara inquires as to why Kaz requested her presence on this mission. Kaz explains that the individual on the damaged vessel may be formidable, and having backup would be beneficial. Synara asks if it is not because she is a more accurate shot than he is. Kaz concedes that this is indeed the reason. Synara expresses her hope that this is a genuine rescue operation and not an ambush.
They approach the damaged vessel, characterized by two prominent orange wings. Kaz docks the Star Commuter shuttle with the stricken ship. CB-23 reports that there is only a single lifeform present on board. Kaz and Synara maintain a state of readiness with their blasters drawn as the airlock disengages. The stranded crew member is revealed to be a blue Nikto female. She is initially taken aback by their firearms, inquiring whether they are pirates.
Kaz assures her that they are not pirates, although he acknowledges that Synara was formerly a pirate. The Nikto expresses her desire to return to her vessel, but Kaz reassures her that they are there to rescue her. Upon Kaz's inquiry, the Nikto reveals that the First Order is expanding its reach throughout the galaxy. She states that entire planets are surrendering and that she narrowly escaped her own world. Synara remarks that she is incredibly fortunate.
When Synara inquires about the Nikto's purpose in this location, she responds that she is unsure of her exact whereabouts. She introduces herself as Nena, identifying herself as a computer engineer with a malfunctioning engine. Kaz mentions that they could benefit from someone with her skills, as their station has sustained damage from the First Order. He explains that their current engineer is overworked. In exchange for repairing her ship, she could assist in repairing the Colossus. Kaz asks Nena if she would consider their offer.
Subsequently, Kaz introduces Nena to Captain Doza and Yeager, informing them that her vessel was damaged by the First Order. Captain Doza expresses his sympathy for her situation, acknowledging that they received her distress signal. Nena informs Doza that her thrusters malfunctioned, forcing her to reroute power to life support in order to survive. Before she can express her gratitude, Neeku interjects, brushing past her to address the long-range transmitter.
Nena observes that the refueling station requires significant attention. Yeager comments that resolving one issue seems to invariably lead to the emergence of another. While observing Neeku's repairs to the sensor, Nena suggests readjusting the case bind to reset the system. Neeku admits that he had not considered this approach and agrees to try it. Nena's suggestion proves effective, and the scanner returns to operational status.
Yeager believes that she would make a competent mechanic. Nena clarifies that she is technically an engineer. Neeku introduces himself, and Nena identifies herself as Nenavakasa Nalor, adding that her friends refer to her as Nena. As the lights begin to flicker, Captain Doza suggests that if she is willing, they could use someone with her skills to lend a hand. Nena expresses her gratitude for their kindness, stating that it is the least she can do.
Later, in the engineering deck, Neeku presents Nena with a problem. He explains that he has even replaced the micro-cables but has been unable to resolve the issue. Nena advises him to reroute the power at this junction, which successfully restores the hyperdrive. Subsequently, Nena repairs the display board at the Aces' Lounge, impressing the Aces. Freya Fenris announces that hologame nights are back on and vows to defeat Hype Fazon. Nena also impresses Opeepit, the Frigosian janitor, by repairing his floor sweeper.
Nena delights Neeku by repairing the garbage vaporizer. A grateful Aunt Z invites both of them to enjoy complimentary drinks at Aunt Z's Tavern. Nena is uneasy due to the presence of the Warbird gang, who are pirates. Snarl requests Neeku's assistance in repairing their sail barge, the Galleon. Nena expresses her reluctance to participate, but she inadvertently bumps into Gork. Neeku assures them that it will not take long.
The pirates escort Nena and Neeku to their hangar, where two of their members are engaged in playful fighting. Neeku reassures Nena that these pirates aided them in their fight against the First Order and are harmless. In the hangar, Snarl explains that they are experiencing difficulties routing power to their vessel. Neeku examines the issue while Nena conducts a power usage scan using her datapad. Based on the results, she asserts that the pirates are drawing power from the Colossus.
Nena informs Neeku that she cannot trust pirates because they are solely motivated by self-interest. Her remarks provoke the ire of Kragan Gorr, the leader of the Warbirds, who perceives it as an insult. Neeku defends Nena, stating that she is merely reporting her findings. Kragan is accompanied by Valik, Skreek, and Gork. Nena maintains that the data speaks for itself and presents the datapad to Kragan, who dismisses her data as inaccurate.
Kragan threatens to teach her some manners, but Nena challenges him. As the power flickers, Neeku attempts to de-escalate the situation, asserting that there is no need for violence. He suggests that they are all friends and fellow platformers. Nena disagrees, alleging that the pirates are exploiting him and stealing the Colossus' power.
Kragan refutes this claim, arguing that they are not receiving their fair share. Gork grunts in agreement. At that moment, the hangar lights extinguish once more. Nena urges Neeku to escape under the cover of darkness. Kragan and several of his associates mock them as cowards. Synara senses that something is amiss and turns her head.
Back on the Colossus bridge, Nena shares her findings with Captain Doza and Yeager. Doza demands that the pirates leave his ship, claiming that they have cost them too much. Yeager points out that the pirates will resist eviction. Kaz requests permission to investigate the matter. He proposes severing their power supply while Nena and Neeku ensure that the pirates cannot steal it again. Captain Doza nods in agreement.
While the pirates are asleep, Kaz and CB-23 stealthily enter their hangar. He instructs his droid to remain silent. Kaz examines the cables, finding nothing inherently suspicious about their arrangement. As Kaz investigates the cables, Synara stirs from her sleep. Kaz walks past Gork, who is asleep, and approaches the main plug.
However, Synara taps him on the shoulder and silences him. Kaz inquires as to her presence, prompting Synara to reciprocate the question. A pirate demands that they keep the noise down, as he is trying to sleep.
Meanwhile, Neeku presents Nena with his new power regulators, asserting that no one will be able to steal their power again. He expresses his enjoyment of working as a team. Nena asks Neeku why he chooses to reside in this flying fuel station and whether he has family here. Neeku reveals that his family are bantha herders who did not comprehend his fascination with machines. He explains that they sold their prized bantha calf so that he could pursue his aspirations of becoming a great engineer. Neeku observes that it has been a considerable amount of time since he has spoken about himself.
Nena notes that his friends never inquire. Neeku chuckles, mentioning that Kaz enjoys discussing the New Republic Military Academy, the Resistance, and his personal encounters with Leia Organa, the General. Nena remarks that Kaz simply enjoys talking as she tightens a wrench. This activates the regulators.
Neeku then inquires about Nena's childhood. Nena recounts that she was a young girl when pirates abducted her. They sold her to a Hutt clan, and she labored as a slave for several years until she managed to escape. Neeku understands her aversion to pirates. Nena informs Neeku that the case blind she installed is not functioning as intended. She admits that she did not come there to repair things. Neeku jokes that she is doing a terrible job and asks her to assist in completing the final adjustments. Nena lowers her head sadly and acknowledges that he is correct.
Meanwhile, Kaz argues with Synara. He believes that the other pirates are stealing power. Synara counters that she knows that the pirates are not stealing power because she installed those power couplings herself. Kaz states that he observed the reroutes, which indicated that the station's power was being diverted to the pirates. Synara points out that Neeku's new friend Nena has been tampering with the power. Kaz responds that she has been trying to help, but Synara urges him to consider why she couldn't repair her own ship if she is such a skilled engineer. Synara also asks Kaz to consider what he truly knows about Nena. Kaz admits that he knows very little about her.
Synara proposes inspecting Nena's ship to verify her claim that she was attacked by the First Order. Kaz believes that Nena's ship appears quite damaged. Synara clarifies that the surface damage is merely wear and tear. As they enter the ship, Synara states that they need to delve deeper and ascertain her recent whereabouts and contacts.
Synara examines the cockpit, suspecting that Nena is attempting to conceal something. She notices that all of her flight data has been encrypted. Kaz finds this peculiar, but Synara suggests that it is not if she is trying to hide something. Synara reveals that she is an experienced code-breaker. The ship's data reveals that Nena has been tracking them for days and that she is collaborating with the First Order.
Kaz asks what their next course of action should be. Synara states that she will remain with Nena's ship to ensure that she cannot escape. Kaz says he will warn everyone. While running along the corridor with CB-23, he informs the astromech droid that Nena is working for the First Order and that they cannot allow her to contact them. Kaz notes that Neeku is very fond of her and that it is difficult to dissuade him once he has made up his mind. CB-23 remarks something about Kaz being the "greatest pilot" in the galaxy.
Kaz enters the engine room to find Neeku and Nena laughing together. Neeku tells Kaz that he and Nena have just repaired the lights. Kaz asks Neeku if they can have a conversation. When Nena asks how his encounter with the pirates went, he claims that it went well before pulling Neeku aside. In private, Kaz informs Neeku that Nena is working for the First Order. Neeku suspects that Kaz is insecure because he is no longer Neeku's best friend, as Nena has become his best friend. He assures Kaz that he is still his best friend, even though Nena is a vastly superior engineer. Neeku believes that Kaz is fabricating stories, but Kaz points out that she is sabotaging the ship.
At that moment, the lights go out. They discover that Nena has vanished, but Neeku believes that it is a deception orchestrated by Kaz. Kaz drags Neeku along into the corridor. Nena flees into the corridor and utilizes her datapad to power up her ship and transmit her coordinates to the First Order. An official from the First Order speaks into the intercom of Nena's ship, instructing her to prepare for their arrival. Synara conceals herself outside the ship.
In the corridor, Neeku asks Nena not to run. As they approach her, Nena fires a blaster at Neeku and Kaz, forcing them to take cover. She informs them not to bother warning anyone because they have no power, thrusters, or defenses. She reveals that the First Order is en route as they speak.
Kaz asks her if she earns her living by sabotaging ships and leaving them at the mercy of the First Order. Nena expresses her surprise that he deduced it so quickly. Neeku tells Nena that she lied about everything. Nena retorts that not everything was a lie and reveals that she was enslaved by pirates as a child. She states that she is prepared to do anything to survive.
Neeku counters that that is what he and his community do – survive. He pleads with her to stay and assist them. Neeku tells her that she is intelligent and capable. Nena replies that she is smart enough to be on the winning side. She fires some more shots before fleeing down the corridor despite Neeku's pleas. Nena asserts that the Resistance has already lost and implores him to join her, adding that she has never had a partner before. She says he is different.
Despite his feelings for her, Neeku says he cannot go with her because he won't abandon his friends. CB-23 attempts to ensnare her with its grappling hook, prompting Nena to exclaim that Neeku tricked her. CB-23 attempts to block her path, but she leaps over the droid.
Meanwhile, Pyre, a Commander, emerges from hyperspace aboard his Resurgent-class Star Destroyer. 4D-M1N informs Captain Doza that the First Order has arrived, taking the Captain by surprise. In the hangar, Synara ambushes Nena, and the two engage in hand-to-hand combat. Nena breaks free and rushes aboard her ship. Synara fires at her but is unable to prevent her from entering her ship.
At that moment, Kaz and Neeku arrive. Nena powers up the ship and reverses out of the hangar. A heartbroken Neeku watches as Nena flies away. At that point, Captain Doza contacts Kaz and alerts him to the presence of the First Order and that nothing is functioning. Kaz informs Doza that Nena is responsible for everything. He instructs Kaz and Neeku to undo her actions, or the First Order will destroy them.
Kaz asks Neeku how they are going to fix all of this. He responds that he doesn't know because she fixed everything. Neeku points out that she rerouted and drained the ship's power. When Kaz asks how he can help, Neeku instructs him to go to the command deck and tells Kaz to go to Service tunnel A2 and disable the regulators.
The Resurgent Star Destroyer dispatches several TIE fighters while Nena flies past in her freighter. She informs Commander Pyre that the Colossus is defenseless and that her mission is complete. He informs Nena that her account has been credited and expresses his gratitude for her excellent work. In private, she is remorseful and hopes that Neeku understands what she was trying to convey. She jumps into hyperspace.
Aboard the bridge of the Star Destroyer, Pyre grudgingly concedes that Tierny, an Agent,'s plan involving the saboteur is proving effective. Tierny is pleased that Pyre is admitting, for once, that she is correct and asserts that he will come to regret ever doubting her. Pyre responds that they will see about that.
TIE fighters bombard the Colossus, disabling the holographic projectors above the Colossus marketplace. In Service tunnel A2, Kaz manages to disable the regulators. Neeku instructs him to proceed to engineering. In the deck, Yeager reports that communications have been restored. TIE fighters continue to strafe the Colossus.
In the engineering deck, Kaz manages to restore the turbines. Neeku then instructs him to repair the plasma cables. 4D-M1N reports that the shields are fully operational, but the thrusters are still offline. Captain Doza instructs them to get the thrusters working, as they need to escape. While Neeku is repairing the thrusters, he informs Kaz that they need to reroute more power.
As the Colossus' gun emplacements eliminate some marauding TIE fighters, Neeku informs Kaz that he needs him to do one more thing. Kaz informs Synara and the pirates that he needs them to disconnect their power source. Snarl is reluctant to comply. At that moment, some objects topple. Kaz asserts that there will be nothing left if they do not assist him. Kaz apologizes for falsely accusing them of draining the ship's power but emphasizes that they have no time to spare.
Kragan Gorr orders the pirates to disconnect their power source. Kaz informs Neeku that the pirates have complied, but Neeku realizes that something is still missing. As the TIEs strafe the bridge, Neeku recalls the case blind and removes it. 4D-M1N reports that all systems are fully functional. Captain Doza orders 4D to jump into hyperspace. The Colossus escapes into hyperspace.
Aboard the bridge of Pyre's Star Destroyer, Pyre taunts Agent Tierny that her saboteur failed to completely disable the Colossus. Agent Tierny issues orders for Nena to be executed for her failure, arguing that an asset is only valuable as long as they are effective. Pyre responds with satisfaction.
In the Colossus marketplace, Kaz apologizes for the trouble caused by Nena. Neeku expresses regret for being trusting and open with others, but Kaz assures him that that is what makes him a good person. He reassures him that he is the best he has ever met. Neeku in return tells Kaz that he is his "bestest" friend because he values him as a friend. When Kaz asks him who else is his friend, he tells Kaz he is fond of a particular chair, Buggles is quite interesting, and that he loves Bibo. He wonders what Bibo is doing now.