Fabula
S3E28 · The Return
S3E28
· The Return

Monoid Two murders Yendom to secure the launcher

After Monoid Two’s violent confrontation with Yendom—where Yendom accuses him of planning to abandon the Guardians—Monoid Two fatally shoots Yendom to prevent him from interfering with the launcher. This act solidifies Monoid Two’s ruthlessness and his commitment to the Monoids’ rebellion, ensuring their exclusive control over the Ark’s fate. The Doctor and Dodo later discover Yendom’s body, confirming the escalation of the Monoid uprising and the Guardians’ helplessness. The event marks a critical turning point: the Monoids now hold unchecked power, while the Guardians’ resistance is effectively crushed. The Doctor’s arrival at the scene underscores the fragility of the Ark’s balance and the inevitability of the coming conflict between the two species.

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

1

Dodo wonders whether Monoid Two went back to the launcher, prompting the Doctor to state they will soon find out.

inquiry to resolve

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

4
Monoid 2
primary

Coldly determined, with an undercurrent of urgency. His actions suggest a man who has fully embraced the Monoids’ revolution and sees Yendom’s death as a necessary step toward securing his species’ future. There is no regret, only resolve.

Monoid Two initiates a physical struggle with Yendom after the Guardian accuses him of planning to abandon the human crew. The confrontation turns deadly as Monoid Two draws his weapon and fires a single, fatal shot, killing Yendom instantly. He then immediately enters the launcher to transmit a warning to Monoid One, his actions betraying no hesitation or remorse. His body language is rigid, his movements efficient—every gesture underscores his commitment to the Monoids’ cause and his willingness to eliminate obstacles, no matter the cost.

Goals in this moment
  • Silence Yendom to prevent him from interfering with the Monoids’ plan to abandon the Guardians on Refusis.
  • Secure control of the launcher to transmit a warning to Monoid One about the unseen Refusians, ensuring the Monoids can prepare for their arrival.
Active beliefs
  • The Monoids deserve sole dominion over Refusis and the Ark, having suffered under human oppression for too long.
  • Yendom’s resistance is a direct threat to the Monoids’ survival and must be eliminated without hesitation.
Character traits
Ruthless Single-minded Physically dominant Emotionally detached Strategic
Follow Monoid 2's journey

Furious and desperate, with a sense of betrayal that borders on despair. Yendom’s emotions are raw—he knows the stakes, and his last act is one of defiance, even as he realizes it will cost him his life. There is no fear, only a burning need to stop Monoid Two, no matter the personal cost.

Yendom confronts Monoid Two in a desperate attempt to stop him from contacting the Ark and abandoning the Guardians. He physically struggles with Monoid Two, his voice laced with anger and betrayal, but his efforts are futile. Monoid Two shoots him at close range, and Yendom collapses, his body left in the jungle undergrowth. His death is sudden, violent, and symbolic of the Guardians’ helplessness in the face of the Monoids’ uprising. The jungle swallows his final moments, his defiance unheard by anyone but his killer.

Goals in this moment
  • Prevent Monoid Two from contacting the Ark and solidifying the Monoids’ betrayal of the Guardians.
  • Defend the Guardians’ right to land on Refusis, even if it means risking his own life.
Active beliefs
  • The Monoids’ plan to abandon the Guardians is a violation of their shared mission and a betrayal of trust.
  • He has a moral obligation to resist, even if it means certain death.
Character traits
Defiant Loyal to the Guardians Physically courageous (but ultimately outmatched) Morally outraged Desperate
Follow Yendom's journey
Supporting 2

Deeply troubled, with a sense of foreboding. The Doctor is acutely aware of the implications of Yendom’s death—it marks a turning point in the Monoids’ rebellion, and he knows that the Guardians’ fate now hangs by a thread. There is a quiet anger beneath his composed exterior, but his primary focus is on assessing the situation and determining his next move.

The Doctor arrives on the scene after the confrontation, discovering Yendom’s body in the jungle. His expression is grave, his demeanor one of quiet urgency. He exchanges a brief, tense dialogue with Dodo about Monoid Two’s whereabouts, implying he understands the gravity of what has just occurred. Though he does not witness the shooting itself, his presence here—standing over Yendom’s corpse—underscores the escalation of the conflict and the Doctor’s role as an outsider caught in the crossfire of this violent power struggle.

Goals in this moment
  • Understand the full extent of the Monoids’ betrayal and the immediate threat it poses to the Guardians.
  • Locate Monoid Two and assess whether he has already transmitted his warning to the Ark, which could further escalate the conflict.
Active beliefs
  • The Monoids’ actions are a direct consequence of past injustices, but their current path is leading to genocide.
  • He must intervene before the situation spirals completely out of control, but he is also acutely aware of his own limitations as an outsider.
Character traits
Observant Gravely concerned Strategic thinker Empathetic (though he masks it with pragmatism) Urgent
Follow The First …'s journey

Tense and uneasy, with a growing sense of dread. Dodo is no stranger to danger, but the brutality of Yendom’s death—and the implication that Monoid Two is still nearby—puts her on edge. She masks her unease with sharp observations and a readiness to act, but beneath the surface, she is deeply unsettled by the violence unfolding around her.

Dodo accompanies the Doctor as they discover Yendom’s body, her sharp eyes scanning the jungle for signs of Monoid Two. She voices her suspicion that Monoid Two has returned to the launcher, her tone laced with alertness and a hint of fear. Though she does not yet grasp the full weight of what has happened, her instincts are on high alert, and she is ready to act on the Doctor’s lead. Her presence here highlights the growing danger of the situation and the need for the companions to stay vigilant.

Goals in this moment
  • Determine Monoid Two’s location and intentions, particularly whether he has reached the launcher.
  • Support the Doctor in assessing the situation and preparing for whatever comes next.
Active beliefs
  • The Monoids are becoming increasingly dangerous, and their rebellion is spiraling out of control.
  • She and the Doctor need to act quickly to prevent further bloodshed, but she is also aware of their own vulnerability in this conflict.
Character traits
Alert Suspicious Quick-witted Loyal to the Doctor Adaptable
Follow Dorothea Chaplet …'s journey

Objects Involved

Significant items in this scene

2
Monoids' Gun

Monoid Two’s gun is the instrument of Yendom’s death—a single, decisive shot fired at close range. The weapon is wielded with cold efficiency, its use marking the irreversible escalation of the Monoids’ rebellion. Before the event, the gun is likely holstered or carried casually, a tool of authority rather than immediate threat. After the shooting, it is either reholstered or discarded nearby, its purpose fulfilled. The gun symbolizes the Monoids’ newfound power and their willingness to use lethal force to secure it. Its presence in the jungle, where the echoes of the shot linger, serves as a grim reminder of the violence that has just taken place.

Before: Holstered or carried by Monoid Two, ready for …
After: Either reholstered by Monoid Two after the shooting …
Before: Holstered or carried by Monoid Two, ready for use but not yet deployed in a lethal capacity.
After: Either reholstered by Monoid Two after the shooting or left near Yendom’s body, its role in the confrontation now complete.
Refusis-Ark Launcher

The Refusis-Ark Launcher is the strategic prize in this confrontation. Monoid Two’s primary goal is to reach it so he can transmit a warning to Monoid One about the unseen Refusians. The launcher itself is a compact, alien communication device, its panels glowing with urgent beeps as Monoid Two activates it. Before the event, it is untouched, a neutral piece of technology awaiting use. After the shooting, Monoid Two immediately enters the launcher, seizing control and ensuring his message is sent. The launcher becomes a symbol of the Monoids’ dominance—its activation is the final step in their betrayal of the Guardians, and its location in the jungle underscores the isolation and desperation of this power struggle.

Before: Untouched and inactive, situated in the dense Refusis …
After: Activated by Monoid Two, who uses it to …
Before: Untouched and inactive, situated in the dense Refusis jungle, its purpose unknown to Yendom until the confrontation.
After: Activated by Monoid Two, who uses it to transmit a warning to the Ark. Its role in the Monoids’ rebellion is now cemented, and it becomes a critical asset in their plan to abandon the Guardians.

Location Details

Places and their significance in this event

1
Refusis Jungle

The Refusis Jungle Launcher is the prize Monoid Two fights to reach. Hidden within the jungle, it is a compact communication hub that allows him to transmit a warning to Monoid One about the unseen Refusians. Before the event, it is untouched, its panels dark and its purpose unknown to Yendom. After the shooting, Monoid Two forces his way inside, activating its controls with urgent beeps and glowing panels. The launcher becomes a symbol of the Monoids’ newfound authority—its activation is the final step in their betrayal, ensuring their message reaches the Ark and solidifying their grip on the ship’s destiny.

Atmosphere Tense and urgent. The launcher’s interior is tight and functional, filled with the sharp scent …
Function Strategic communication hub used by Monoid Two to transmit a warning to the Ark, ensuring …
Symbolism Represents the Monoids’ seizure of power. The launcher, once a neutral tool, is now a …
Access Initially accessible to both Monoid Two and Yendom, but Monoid Two’s violence ensures he is …
Compact interior with glowing panels and beeping controls, creating a sense of urgency. The sharp scent of alien technology, mingling with the jungle’s oppressive atmosphere. The weight of Monoid Two’s betrayal, as he uses the launcher to secure the Monoids’ future at the Guardians’ expense.

Organizations Involved

Institutional presence and influence

2
Monoids

The Monoids are the driving force behind this event, their rebellion reaching a violent climax as Monoid Two eliminates Yendom to secure their dominance. This act is not just personal—it is a calculated move to ensure the Monoids’ exclusive control over the Ark and Refusis. Monoid Two’s actions are a direct extension of the organization’s goals: abandon the Guardians, claim Refusis for themselves, and eliminate any opposition. The shooting of Yendom is a stark demonstration of their willingness to use lethal force to achieve these ends, marking a turning point in their revolution.

Representation Through the direct action of Monoid Two, who embodies the Monoids’ ruthlessness and strategic cunning. …
Power Dynamics Exercising overwhelming authority over the Guardians, who are now powerless to resist. The Monoids’ power …
Impact This event cements the Monoids’ transition from oppressed laborers to dominant rulers. Their use of …
Internal Dynamics The Monoids operate as a unified front, with Monoid Two acting as an extension of …
Secure exclusive control over the Ark and Refusis by eliminating Guardian resistance, as embodied by Yendom’s defiance. Transmit a warning to Monoid One about the unseen Refusians, ensuring the Monoids can prepare for their arrival and solidify their dominance. Lethal force (the shooting of Yendom), demonstrating their willingness to kill to achieve their goals. Strategic use of technology (the launcher), allowing them to communicate and coordinate their actions across the Ark and Refusis. Psychological intimidation (the abandonment of Yendom’s body in the jungle), sending a message to any remaining Guardians who might resist.
Guardians

The Guardians are the victims of this event, their fate sealed by Yendom’s death and the Monoids’ betrayal. Yendom’s defiance is his last stand as a representative of his people, but his failure to stop Monoid Two symbolizes the Guardians’ complete helplessness. The organization is now on the brink of annihilation, with no means to resist the Monoids’ plan to abandon them on Refusis. The Doctor and Dodo’s discovery of Yendom’s body underscores the Guardians’ vulnerability, their once-proud mission reduced to a struggle for survival in the face of genocide.

Representation Through Yendom’s physical presence and defiance, which embodies the Guardians’ final, futile resistance. His death …
Power Dynamics Completely subjugated and powerless. The Guardians have no agency in this moment—they can only react …
Impact This event marks the effective end of the Guardians as an organization. Their mission, their …
Internal Dynamics The Guardians are fractured and leaderless, with no clear path forward. Yendom’s death removes one …
Prevent the Monoids from abandoning the Guardians on Refusis, as represented by Yendom’s attempt to stop Monoid Two. Survive the Monoids’ betrayal, though this goal is now effectively impossible given Yendom’s death and the Monoids’ control of the launcher. Moral appeal (Yendom’s accusation of betrayal, which Monoid Two ignores), demonstrating the Guardians’ reliance on principles that the Monoids have discarded. Physical resistance (Yendom’s struggle with Monoid Two), which is ultimately futile but symbolizes the Guardians’ refusal to accept their fate passively. Dependence on outsiders (the Doctor and Dodo), who arrive too late to intervene but whose presence hints at the Guardians’ last, desperate hope for salvation.

Narrative Connections

How this event relates to others in the story

What led here 4

"Yendom's awareness of Monoid Two's betrayal leads directly to his attempt to stop Monoid Two from contacting the Ark (beat_5278ef855026c231 -> beat_1af13240be186e49)"

Dodo exposes Monoid Two’s betrayal
S3E28 · The Return

"Yendom's awareness of Monoid Two's betrayal leads directly to his attempt to stop Monoid Two from contacting the Ark (beat_5278ef855026c231 -> beat_1af13240be186e49)"

Doctor reveals Refusians to skeptical Monoid Two
S3E28 · The Return

"Dodo accuses Monoid Two of planning to abandon the Guardians, and Yendom confirms that with a cry of betrayal in `beat_5278ef855026c231`. This confirms Yendom's allegiance to the Guardians, and motivates his attempt to stop Monoid Two in `beat_f5ad5754cb3e4556`."

Dodo exposes Monoid Two’s betrayal
S3E28 · The Return

"Dodo accuses Monoid Two of planning to abandon the Guardians, and Yendom confirms that with a cry of betrayal in `beat_5278ef855026c231`. This confirms Yendom's allegiance to the Guardians, and motivates his attempt to stop Monoid Two in `beat_f5ad5754cb3e4556`."

Doctor reveals Refusians to skeptical Monoid Two
S3E28 · The Return
What this causes 1

"Yendom's death at the hands of Monoid Two allows Monoid Two to try to warn the others which is then Interrupted and leaves the fate of landing party unknown (`beat_1af13240be186e49` -> `beat_cc6da1368d4afe3c`)."

Monoid Two’s Aborted Warning
S3E28 · The Return

Themes This Exemplifies

Thematic resonance and meaning

Part of Larger Arcs

Key Dialogue

"YENDOM: We, meaning only the Monoids. When you spoke of it before you meant that only you and only your kind would make the landings, didn't you."
"MONOID 2: Yendom, I do not have to account to you."
"YENDOM: I'll not let you contact them."
"DODO: What about the Monoid? Do you think he's gone back to the launcher?"