In the thirteenth season of Chicago Fire, episode 17, titled “A Beast Like That,” viewers are pulled into a whirlwind of emotions and intense situations involving our favorite firefighters. The episode opens with a significant moment between Novak and Damon as they grapple with their complicated feelings.
“Next time, bring your gear,” Novak playfully suggests after a night together. However, Damon responds, “My job is more important.” It’s clear that both characters are struggling with the implications of their relationship; they shouldn’t pursue this again, yet the chemistry is undeniable.
Stella and Kelly: A Moment of Reflection
Meanwhile, Stella and Kelly engage in a lighthearted conversation about “Girls on Fire” while preparing for their shifts. Stella’s excitement grows as she contemplates purchasing baby furniture, but Kelly wisely advises her to hold off, pointing out that their timeline for starting a family is still far in the future.
(Peter Gordon/NBC)
As the day progresses, Damon expresses his relief at having his gear back, but Herrmann warns him, “You need to kick it up a notch because nobody will be taking it easy on you the second time around.” This advice sets the stage for the challenges Damon is about to face.
The Weight of the Past
In another subplot, Lieutenant Vale pays a visit to Pascal to offer condolences, hinting at a complicated backstory involving Monica, who has moved on with Dom. Pascal’s emotions are palpable as he grapples with his feelings of jealousy and loss. “I just looked down for one second,” the driver of a vehicle involved in an accident tells Pascal, who is still reeling from the emotional fallout of his own past experiences.
Emergency Response: The MVA Call
The tension escalates when the team receives a call for a motor vehicle accident (MVA) at Lakeside Mall. Pascal, determined to prove himself, rushes in but quickly finds himself paralyzed by the gravity of the situation. As he witnesses a young girl named Jenna trapped beneath a truck, his composure falters.
The crew works efficiently to rescue the driver of the SUV, who is visibly shaken. Violet assesses Jenna’s condition, noting that while she has no radial pulse, a carotid pulse is present. Meanwhile, Pascal confronts the driver, blaming her for the accident, only for the father to witness the emotional turmoil of the moment.
New Faces and Aspirations
In a lighter subplot, a young girl named Natalie approaches Stella about “Girls on Fire.” At only 13 years old, she is eager to pursue a path that goes beyond traditional education. Stella invites her to attend a noon session, igniting a spark of excitement in Natalie, who struggles to contain her enthusiasm.
As the episode unfolds, the dynamics of the firehouse become increasingly complicated. Violet contemplates calling Flynn while grappling with her own insecurities about their relationship.
Training Challenges and Personal Growth
Training at Firehouse 51 becomes a focal point, especially for Damon, who feels pressure to perform well. He and Cruz set a new house record for breaking through doors, a feat that boosts Damon’s confidence. However, he continues to be hard on himself, feeling as though he’s not performing at his best. Herrmann’s encouragement to “take the win, kid” resonates as Damon navigates his self-doubt amidst the pressures of the job.
Substance Abuse and Redemption
The narrative takes a darker turn when Stella discovers Natalie behind the firehouse, engaging in substance use. “Go home. Get yourself together. It IS a big deal,” Stella admonishes her. This moment highlights the struggles faced by many young people today, emphasizing the need for guidance and support.
Meanwhile, Violet’s instincts tell her something was off during the MVA call, leading her to hypothesize about the potential for hypoglycemia, especially given the circumstances surrounding the young man’s condition at the gym.
Checking In: Emotional Health and Team Dynamics
As the episode progresses, Novak checks on Pascal, who insists he’s fine despite the emotional toll of the previous day’s events. “I know people think I came back too soon, but I needed to be here,” he admits. This moment of vulnerability allows for a deeper connection between the two characters, as they both acknowledge the weight of their respective challenges.
Personal Lives Intertwined with Professional Duties
At Molly’s, Novak confronts Damon about his reluctance to engage, highlighting the awkwardness that pervades their interactions. Meanwhile, Stella’s admiration for Natalie grows, leading her to sign up for extra shifts at Molly’s, which surprises Kelly.
The plot thickens as Violet and Flynn discuss their shared interests, particularly in true crime, but Violet’s emotional walls become apparent as she tries to keep Flynn at arm’s length.
Final Calls and Tension Escalates
As the episode nears its conclusion, the team responds to yet another emergency call involving a young man named Connor, who exhibits violent behavior and has a severe leg injury. His roommate is visibly distressed, revealing the complexities of their living situation.
The urgency of the moment drives the team into action, showcasing their commitment to saving lives despite the personal battles each firefighter faces.
“A Beast Like That” is a compelling exploration of personal and professional struggles faced by the characters in Chicago Fire. The episode masterfully intertwines themes of love, loss, and redemption, highlighting the importance of teamwork and emotional health in high-pressure environments. As the season progresses, viewers are left to wonder how these relationships will evolve and what challenges lie ahead for the brave firefighters of Firehouse 51.
