The USS Shenzhou encounters a mysterious object while patrolling Federation space. This puts First Officer Michael Burnham to the test.

The USS Shenzhou prepares for a potential war as they meet face-to-face with Klingon vessels. Amid the turmoil, Burnham looks back to her Vulcan upbringing for guidance.

Burnham finds herself on the USS Discovery. She soon realises things are not as they seem, including the mysterious Captain Gabriel Lorca.

Starfleet continue their efforts to end the war with the Klingons; Burnham begins to settle in her new position on the USS Discovery.

Burnham voices her concerns about the repercussions of the drive jumps on Ripper; while on a mission, Lorca unexpectedly finds himself in the company of Starfleet Lieutenant Ash Tyler and Harry Mudd.

Michael uses her connection to Sarek to help find him after he is wounded in an attack; Lorca deals with an unexpected visitor.