While exploring an uncharted debris field, the Tulip discovers a sarcophagus floating in space. Mishkin, the sarcophagus' lone occupant, spreads a disease among the crew that makes Rudolpho and Marcus question their positions aboard the ship.

The crew of the holovision reality series, ""The Third Thing"", follow the crew of the Tulip. Marcus, wanting more hands-on experience, is given the job of capturing a petty criminal.