Episode 3 deepens the show’s mystery surrounding the frozen researchers found in the ice, as Danvers and Nararro realize that researcher Raymond Clark is unaccounted for among the bodies. Further investigation points to a connection with Oliver Tagaq, a hunter who is rather impossible to find, which prompts Navarro to seek help from Qavvik (who has many contacts due to his homebrew business).
Qavvik has been painted as a gentle character so far, one who cares deeply about Navarro, respects her boundaries, and is sensitive to the trauma-fueled episodes that her sister Julia (Aka Niviâna) often experiences. He proposes a quid pro quo to exchange information, promising to help her out in exchange for personal information about Julia’s childhood. However, unlike the nefarious nature of the exchange between Lecter and Clarice, this conversation is honest and devoid of any ulterior motives — Qavvik simply wishes to know and understand Navarro better, as she has a tendency to remain guarded due to her tumultuous past and the challenges she faces as a trooper.
Although initially hesitant, Navarro opens up about her mother and how her abusive father urged her to bring her kids back up north. Shortly after, her mother also experienced episodes of psychosis and left the sisters behind, only to never come back as she was murdered by someone who remains on the loose. This is the first instance where Navarro talks openly about the cyclical nature of trauma and allows herself to be vulnerable in front of someone she cares about. It’s also a bittersweet exchange that fleshes out one of the show’s leads in a humane manner while establishing a stronger connection between latent discontent and the cruel injustices of life.
New episodes of “True Detective: Night Country” premiere on Sundays on HBO and Max.