7) Country air

The nitro-nine destroyed its targets in an almighty explosion. Each one burnt, the organ stopped playing its haunted tune and a blue, almost electric, mist rose from the area before dissipating into the atmosphere. The Doctor turned to Ace and smiled, 'I still don't approve of it…'

'Admit it has its uses though' Ace said as she moved over to where Amy laid, 'Professor, quick'

The Doctor kneeled beside Amy and held her head, 'Amy' he said softly, 'Amy Pond'

She stirred before her eyes opened, 'Doctor' she said looking at him, 'I heard these voices, as if people were in my head'

'They were' he replied holding her, 'you had everyone who they consumed in your mind'

Ace looked around. Windows in the houses had opened and a man in 1950s costume was wiping the windows down of the local pub whilst a woman in clothes of the same era materialised in front of her walking down the street, 'Doctor' she said alarmed, 'there are people'

He looked up, 'they were never fully digested. Therefore the destruction of the Yavrox brought them back. Sometimes Ace there is a glimmer of hope. And this time the glimmer came through. Come on Pond, you'll be fine'

As more and more people started materialising in the village the three made their way back towards the TARDIS, 'but how do they come to terms with what has happened?' a still dazed Amy asked

'I think…' the Doctor responded as a UNIT vehicle flew past them on its way to the village, 'we leave that to the professionals. Bit of country air and they'll be fine'

The TARDIS was a welcome sight for all three of them, 'Come and have a look Ace' the Doctor said as he opened the door and let Amy in.

Ace agreed to look and followed him into the TARDIS. It was much different from the way she remembered it, 'you've improved it' she said looking around, 'better colour scheme than the white anyway'

The Doctor smiled, 'I know, how do you fancy travelling in it?' he asked quickly.

She shook her head, 'I don't think I can, not now anyway' was her response, 'I need to move on. Besides I've got other things I need to do at Torchwood'

He was disappointed but could understand her reaction, 'one day' she added, i'll see you again and then I'll take up that offer'

He smiled at her, 'I'm sure we will. But before then be careful with that Nitro-nine. Oh and don't let Captain Jack talk you into any of his mad ideas'

She laughed before hugging him, 'I'll take it on board. Goodbye for now Professor'

With a swift tap at her vortex manipulator she was gone leaving just a taste in the air.

'You know' Amy said as the Doctor started to set a course, 'I liked her. You should be proud of her'

'Amy Pond' he said, 'I'm beyond proud of her. Equally so I'm proud of you'

And with that he pulled a lever, the time rotor span into life and the TARDIS took off.