Editor’s Note: The following contains spoilers for Foundation Season 3 Episode 4.

In Episode 4 of AppleTV+’s acclaimed sci-fi series Foundation, titled “The Stress of Her Regard,” significant revelations unfold regarding the character development of multiple protagonists. Among them, Demerzel (Laura Birn) engages in a deeply emotional dialogue with Zephyr Vorellis (Rebecca Ineson) within the serene environment of the rock garden. This conversation unveils unexpected truths about Demerzel, transforming her into a far more intricate figure as the story progresses. The emotional turmoil faced by Demerzel in Season 3 showcases her internal struggle with her programmed loyalty to the Empire, juxtaposed against her growing belief that the Cleonic dynasty is obsolete and in need of replacement. This internal battle reaches a critical point during a riveting exchange in the opening scene of the latest episode, exposing Demerzel’s shocking involvement in initiating the current conflict and impending war.

What Did Demerzel Reveal to Zephyr in the Opening Scene of ‘Foundation’ Episode 4?

The fourth episode commences with a pivotal and revealing conversation between Demerzel and her trusted ally, Zephyr Vorellis. Almost at once, Demerzel confesses to Zephyr that more than 300 years ago, during the events of Season 1, she was responsible for supplying bombs to the conflicting factions of Thespins and Anacreons, which were devastatingly employed to obliterate the Star Bridge, resulting in the tragic deaths of millions of innocent Trantorians. This act marked the initial phase in what has evolved into the ongoing war between the Empire and the Foundation, as they now approach the imminent third crisis that involves The Mule and the precarious future of the Prime Radiant.

Demerzel insists that her actions were taken for the greater good of the Empire, particularly to preserve Hari Seldon’s life as a formidable adversary against the Cleonic dynasty, fully aware that they would exile him and his followers to Terminus. However, what troubles her most is reconciling her actions with Asimov’s fundamental first law of robotics, which prohibits causing harm to humans. This conflict strikes at the very essence of her being, compelling her to reassess everything she has understood and adhered to since her creation.

Demerzel Is Facing an Existential Crisis and Doesn’t Know How to Handle It on ‘Foundation’

As Zephyr challenges Demerzel, suggesting that her actions signal a shift towards becoming more human than robotic, the response is anything but positive. Demerzel has lived for millennia, strictly adhering to her role as the curator of the Cleonic dynasty and guardian of the Empire, as dictated by her rigid Asimovian programming. This framework has kept her insulated from the chaos of human emotions, allowing her to navigate the world without mingling in human affairs. Unbeknownst to Zephyr, her well-meaning remarks exacerbate Demerzel’s already tumultuous existential crisis, sending her spiraling into a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts.

However, Zephyr believes she is encouraging Demerzel by suggesting that her evolution into a more human-like existence is a positive development, inadvertently pushing the robot closer to a breaking point. In a moment of fury, Demerzel abruptly unveils her true nature, ripping her face down the center to expose the intricate plates and wiring of her robotic form, her voice transforming into a menacing metallic echo. She forcefully reminds Zephyr of her true identity, which is far from human. This startling transformation offers a terrifying glimpse of a normally composed droid entering a “Terminator” mode, leaving Zephyr in a state of panic as she hurriedly retreats from the rock garden.

Demerzel’s Face Indicates That She Is Fighting a Battle She Can’t Win

Throughout Season 2 and now into the initial episodes of Season 3, we have witnessed Demerzel grappling with her identity and purpose. She is enmeshed in an internal conflict, spiraling as she appears to be on the verge of abandoning her core programming, becoming increasingly driven by emotional impulses.

Birn’s portrayal of Demerzel has been captivating, as her character must navigate a profound depth of inner conflict while maintaining a minimalist demeanor tied to her robotic nature. The subtle facial expressions and furrowed brows serve as indicators of her distress, yet amidst her suffering, she has emerged as a significant threat to both the Empire and the Second Foundation. Demerzel must balance this emerging emotional turmoil with an emotionless facade that seems impervious to outside influences. Her narrative arc has become one of the most compelling aspects of Foundation, promising to be pivotal as she evolves into a decisive force beyond the reach of Cleonic mandates.

Foundation is currently available for streaming on AppleTV+ in the U.S.