Episode 3 of Snowpiercer unfolds with a pivotal scene in New Eden, where Ruth stands firm, assuring her fellow inhabitants that all is in order and security measures have been tightened. Yet, in stark contrast, Layton seethes with impatience, consumed by the urgent need to rescue his daughter, Liana, from the clutches of Snowpiercer. It becomes clear that the Peacekeepers' scheme has been meticulously plotted, fueling Layton's desperate desire to pilot Big Alice in pursuit, a move that necessitates reigniting its engines and setting it back on the tracks.
Ruth, however, stands as a bastion of reason, reminding them that they are now a democracy where decisions must be reached through consensus. She argues against undermining their hard-won progress solely to satisfy Layton's personal quest, no matter how heinous the crimes committed against his family.
As the meeting convenes, a sobering revelation emerges: Big Alice's engine serves as a vital lifeline for New Eden, ensuring its survival, particularly during emergencies when other systems falter. Thus, Layton's impulsive departure threatens to unravel all they've built.
Meanwhile, on Snowpiercer, the dynamic shifts to the harsh realities faced by its inhabitants, enduring grueling labor under oppressive conditions. Bess, having endured torture for information, remains resolute, her silence a testament to her resolve amidst this labor camp-like existence. The collective yearning for liberation, particularly the downfall of the Admiral, simmers beneath the surface.
Ben, a shrewd strategist, counsels patience to Bess, urging her to bide her time before striking. The grim toll of their treatment is palpable, with exhaustion and illness claiming victims, the latest being Lt. Lee. His demise, however, presents Ben with an opportunity to seize control and transform their fortunes. If he assumes leadership, a pivotal electrical project awaits, one that promises to double their food supply but necessitates handling a perilous "potent synthetic compound."
Ben negotiates reduced work hours and the inclusion of Bess in his endeavors, a deal reluctantly accepted by their captors. Yet, they remain under strict surveillance as Ben seeks answers from Nima, the enigmatic figure who, under the Admiral's thumb, remains tight-lipped about their tasks. Nima's orders from the Admiral—to halt work and keep a watchful eye on them—underscore the fragile balance of power within Snowpiercer's confines.
Ben and Till, their minds rife with suspicion, are firmly convinced that something sinister lurks beneath the surface. Seated at the rear of the train, they realize their position is perilously isolated, making it all too easy for them to be separated from the rest. As they delve into the labyrinthine pipes, their curiosity turns to alarm; the density within is unmistakably not water, leading them to uncover a secret sub-train. Together, they embark on a quest to unravel the mystery of these chemicals and devise a strategy to turn the tables on the Admiral and his cronies.
Meanwhile, in New Eden, Osweiller returns to base, where Layton enlists his support, fueled by a burden of guilt over Zarah's perilous journey to check on him. Determined to make amends for his community, he sets their plan into motion, with Javi lending a hand by securing energy for New Eden, ensuring their survival for three crucial weeks ahead.
However, the intervention of Sykes throws a wrench into their plans, as she overpowers Layton, her strength undeniable. Ruth finds herself torn between conflicting loyalties, as some residents rally behind Layton's vengeful mission to rescue his daughter and fight for those they cherish. Ultimately, she decides to put the matter to a vote, seeking the collective wisdom of the community.
Layton stands before his fellow citizens, his voice resonating with passion and purpose. He declares his unwavering commitment to fighting for Zarah, as he would for any one of them. His words strike a chord, granting him the train's engine and a window of three weeks, along with the freedom to choose up to three carriages, sans any from Ag-Sec. Each companion must volunteer willingly, forging a bond of solidarity amidst uncertainty.
Alice's findings, however, paint a chilling picture. Mr. Sprinkles has returned, but in death, his frozen blood a chilling reminder of the unknown dangers they face. She ponders if this anomaly is akin to a fragile bubble, doomed to burst, and resolves to delve deeper into her research, her path intersecting with Layton's as he embarks on his quest. A diverse group, including Josie and the surprising addition of Ruth, rallies around Layton, their spirits united in the face of adversity.
Back in the shadows, Till and Ben's intricate plan to neutralize the Admiral through chemical warfare takes a devastating turn when Zima betrays them, trapping them in a perilous situation. The chemicals they had been meticulously preparing, it transpires, were destined for Big Alice. As Layton and his team approach, the stage is set for a climactic confrontation, the fate of many hanging in the balance.
