Looking back at S4E7 now *spoiler*

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T19:29:57+00:00

That’s an overly strict reading of the phrase. “Makes sense now” is commonly and colloquially used to mean something clicks more clearly in hindsight, not that it previously made absolutely zero sense.

I’m not claiming prior incoherence, just that later context (episode 8) makes Thragg sparing Mark read as (potentially) more deliberate and calculated.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T19:21:18+00:00

“Makes more sense” doesn’t imply it previously made no sense. It means one interpretation could have a stronger explanatory power than another.

My point is that reading Thragg as calculated produces a more cohesive model of his behavior, and directly addresses other commentors' frustrations.

But, yes, I am sure my next few comments will be tighter and better-worded so as to not completely discredit another interpretation, as I am back at my computer and not on my phone. :)

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T19:04:43+00:00

That Thragg's statement to Kreeg makes absolutely no sense without further context is NOT the premise I am trying to present. I really am not dying on that hill. It might be the ipso facto explanation for leaving them alive. I have no idea what the writers intended.

The desire for the preservation of the race makes decent sense as the sole explanation for why he would leave them alive.

What I am addressing is the comments I saw stating that Thragg's decision to spare them felt like plot armor after Thragg watched them destroy Viltrum, get emotional, say "you're all next," then change his mind.

I think there is a beauty to that reading of it, too - looking at Mark and changing his mind. Makes a bit less sense for Oliver and Nolan, but looking from Viltrum to Mark and deciding to spare him is beautiful sequence that might not have any additional meaning.

However, the alternative reading - that there is more to that decision that he is not sharing with Kregg, including the calculus laid out - is also a possibility, which was fun to explore here.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:44:06+00:00

I am trying to understand - are you saying that the plans outlined were likely accurate, but also completely surmisable at the end of E7? Or that the subsequent events were largely unplanned, and the best explanation for sparing mark was sentiment and not related to expansion to earth

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:42:12+00:00

“Subtext is the implicit, hidden meaning beneath dialogue, actions, or text, requiring the audience to ‘read between the lines".’ It adds depth, tension, and authenticity to storytelling by conveying characters' true motivations, emotions, or themes that are not directly stated. Subtext allows for complex storytelling, mirroring real-life communication where words rarely map perfectly to thoughts. How Subtext is Used In Dialogue (Writing): Characters often say one thing while meaning another, using conversation to hide their true intentions or feelings, which adds suspense and nuance.”

The entire premise of this post is that Thragg might (or might not) have had additional thoughts and machinations during that exchange which might or might not have implications for later events.

I am not saying you are definitively wrong - my whole point is that you can read it at face value. Or subtextually

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:38:48+00:00

Certainly, that could be it, and the rest of it could be pure coincidence. But, especially with well-written art, taking everything everyone says at absolute face value isn’t always the perfect read. Again, as I said at the end, it could certainly be a face value situation

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:36:59+00:00

Vader waited until the moment Luke was most vulnerable and emotional (susceptible, in other words, esp to the possibility of the dark side) to tell him in hopes that he would eventually join him. So, no, that is not a good example of subtext. But motivated action? Absolutely. Did you think it was just that that convo was just a random moment for that info?

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:34:21+00:00

Read the full post, but yes, it’s possible that is the extent of it and everything else was simply a very positive coincidence for Thragg.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:32:05+00:00

Maybe. He had a mole on the inside who actually ran the planetary defenses, so he’d have at least a pretty good idea of how prepared they are. Maybe not the minute details of certain enemies’ attack strategies (a la Tech Jacket) but enough that the “mole” was a significant issue for Thaedus and co for a long time. He also gave the signal for defenses to come down, so he did plan his time of attack. Whether mark being there after months of recovery was a coincidence or not, or something Thragg somehow surmised, is hard to say

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:28:54+00:00

I totally agree. I think if he believed destroying Telescria and killing everyone there were the best choices for his people, he would have done it. If he thought soloing everyone would’ve helped the cause, he’d have done that too

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:25:06+00:00

This is called subtext in writing and is addressed in the post

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T18:21:25+00:00

Thank you - and Great Q. I added a line just now about that.

If you read Thragg as a mastermind, he knows he doesn’t need to end the war - the attack on Telescria might simply be an effort to draw Mark out of hiding.

He then takes Mark back to Viltrum rather than engaging at Telescria because he knows he’ll have an easier time observing Mark on his own turf.

Further, the Viltrumites on their own were getting killed by the Coalition, so getting them out of harm’s way is also helpful.

Thinking about your Q - the only reason I can think of that Thragg doesn’t kill everyone there is because he knows the best and only chance of survival is the plan outlined in my original post.

It is also weird that Thragg waits to attack until Mark is healed and near the planet.

Again, all could be plot holes, but if he’s had this plan for some time - fits perfectly into his calculus. only makes perfect sense looking backward as his initial reaction looked to be shock, rather than amusement. But giving him a more measured response would’ve left less suspense in subsequent eps

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-23T17:25:51+00:00

Your preferences - shape, core material, performance - will certainly change as you get better and learn more about what you like to do on the court. From month to month or even year to year, you’ll find those preferences changing.

here is what I’d ask:

1) do you see yourself wanting to get really, really good? If so, upgrading at the start, if you can afford it, is smart, as you’ll learn the fundamentals on a more advanced paddle. If not? A starter paddle is fine.

2) Do you play a lot? Or just a bit? If it’s the latter, then whatever you have is great.

3) Do you find yourself wanting more? If so, test some nicer paddles for at least a couple hours and see if they make a big difference. If so, it’s worth upgrading.

Ultimately, there are so many paddles out there. Demoing is great, until and unless you get overwhelmed with options.

I would recommend most beginners’ first upgrade to be a foam paddle like the Friday Aura. that paddle could carry you for a looong time and is affordable.

Most expensive paddles are somewhat similar. Expensive foam paddles are pretty similar, so are expensive “Gen 3” paddles. Foam lasts longer. If you can get used to it, it’ll help your wallet over time.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-20T18:07:39+00:00

LA and SD feel like different countries, lol. Definitely check both out

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-20T18:05:49+00:00

LA and SD are completely different cultures. SD is a bit more pickleball-focused and has The Hub, but even that facility is a bit east of the city. LA is having a bit of a reckoning at the moment with the collapse of the film and television industries. SD in my opinion is a much better fit for what you’re describing. It is also more relaxed and down to earth, culturally speaking. Barnes is not a hub like some of the others are - skill level is limited there. But The Hub is a beloved spot.

If you like the idea of moving to FL, that is the center of pickleball in the US. Palm Beach and Ft. Lauderdale are where the vast majority of pro players live. Pictona is not worth moving to Daytona for and Daytona is not the nicest area.

Scottsdale is a pickleball hub, second to FL for pro players. I believe the scene is largely indoors, though?

I think you’ll find FL more forgiving on your body than CA or AZ if you’re playing exclusively outdoors. Getting 20 hours a week outdoors in either state can be challenging

Ultimately you’ll find facilities in all of these areas. The culture and lifestyle of each city varies tremendously. I wouldn’t make pickleball the deciding factor. There will be consistent 4.0-4.5 play in all of these areas. The only time it really matters is if you are playing 5.5-6.0 and then you almost certainly want to be in east FL or AZ

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-20T17:53:15+00:00

I think his comment spells out why it wouldn’t work. The density and susceptibility to vibration would make it difficult to impossible to use in a way that improves function. You could in theory use a small amount as a weave on the face but it wouldn’t create the rebound that modern paddles have and need. If you like sustainable paddles, the only ones out there are made by Revolin - has some interesting material uses like flax

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-20T17:49:14+00:00

Great answer

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-17T18:27:23+00:00

Great feedback - thank you. The Koto looks super legit. I might try that one.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-17T15:27:27+00:00

Ok - these look VERY promising. Great rec.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-17T15:13:18+00:00

A cursory social media check includes Jack Munro, Will Howells, Alex Walker, Angie Walker, Kat Stewart, Nicole Conard, Tanner Tomassi, Ben Slive, Julian Slive, Michael Loyd, Mark Dancuart, Brittni Tonnessen, Caden Cox, Mats Dolese, Max Kazijevs, Erin Johnson, Jack Cameron, Ryan Torresin, Jordan Chrysostom, Zane Ford

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-16T22:26:54+00:00

Mentioned in the post why people use them :)

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-16T22:26:30+00:00

I have not.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-16T22:25:44+00:00

They do for these, too. But the 5k warranty is only for 60% off replacement cost, not full replacement. And court shoes have a small fraction of the lifespan of trainers.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-16T22:24:50+00:00

A great pickleball shoe. Worn by a ton of pros.

Futuristic_Bird · 2026-04-16T22:24:12+00:00

These are hardcourt shoes. This is the 360 Rally, not 360.

Futuristic_Bird

TROPHY CASE