Object

Danilo's / Bringloidi Makeshift Poteen Still (Illicit Distillation Rig)

A compact jury‑rigged distillation rig assembled from scavenged/battered cargo‑bay parts (metal drum, coiled tubing, patched condenser, glass carboys and a crude heat source). Steam and a sharp, solvent‑like/alcohol odor rise as pale amber liquid collects in stoppered vessels; the contraption is tended by Danilo and fellow Bringloidi until Brenna discovers it and Worf intervenes, converting illicit revelry into a disciplinary incident.

2 appearances

Purpose

Illicitly distill high-proof poteen (home-brewed alcohol) for private consumption.

Significance

Functions as a comic yet destabilizing prop that precipitates authority, discipline, and cultural negotiation aboard the ship: it exposes Danilo's contraband tastes, gives Worf a chance to reassert order pragmatically, and allows Brenna/Pulaski to pursue integration and enforcement measures—shifting covert pleasure into sanctioned channels.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments

S2E18 · STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION — Up the Long Ladder

From Illicit Still to Sanctioned Spirits

The jury‑rigged poteen still functions as the illicit focal prop: Danilo and companions operate it in secret to produce traditional alcohol. Its presence triggers Brenna's discovery and sets up Worf's intervention, symbolizing cultural persistence and contraband pleasure aboard the ship.

Before: Assembled and active in a secluded corner behind cargo containers, manned by Danilo and two cronies.

After: Abandoned/left unattended as Brenna scolds the cronies and Danilo exits; the illicit operation is effectively defused though the still's physical state is unchanged.

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S2E18 · STAR TREK: THE NEXT GENERATION — Up the Long Ladder

Brenna Quells Revelry and Reclaims Duty

The jury-rigged poteen still is the illicit focal point: Danilo and two cronies tend it covertly behind containers. It functions as the narrative cause of friction — a clash between Bringloidi cultural coping and shipboard order — and is effectively shut down by Brenna's arrival and rebuke.

Before: Operating behind cargo containers, actively being heated and attended by Danilo and cronies.

After: Left unattended and socially discredited; operators withdraw and activity halts though the rig itself remains physically present in the corner.

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