1. Storytelling
As Stargazers episode 5 opens, Leon arrives back home from his date with Ino, who had to leave the station with his parents as they moved on with their travels. Leon's parents want to know how the date went, and he says it went fine before asking them both if they ever considered a career in Starfleet, likely because it's what Syrrik wants — and he wants to understand the longing.
While Leon's father says no and doesn't elaborate, his mother, Valentina, tells him that it did occur to her and that she could see the attraction of it because it was a way to see new places and, if you'll pardon the pun, to explore strange new worlds.
Valentina then says, "There are other ways to see the galaxy," as if speaking from a great deal of experience. The storytelling Melendez uses here not only tells us that Leon feels comfortable speaking to his parents about his personal life but that he trusts their advice as well.
My favorite part of this scene is Valentina asking her son if he needs "a little treat" after having to say goodbye to Ino because who hasn't used food to comfort themselves and others, especially when it's such a part of someone's culture?
I also have so much to say about Leon reading a book called the Archduke of the Bracelets because of my own absolute lifelong love affair with The Lord of the Rings! I give Melendez all the points for referencing something even casual fans of fantasy will catch.
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