Track 1: Gathering Strength 0:00 – 1:28 [fadeout needed] (Class Series 1 OST)
Track 2: An Alien Forrest (Doctor Who The Edge of Time OST)
Track 3: Emer-gency Exit (Doctor Who The Edge of Time OST)
Track 4: London (Doctor Who The Edge of Time OST)
Track 5: Tendril (Doctor Who Series 11 OST)
Track 6: Ranskoor av Kolos (Doctor Who Series 11 OST)
Track 7: Emer's Theme (Doctor Who The Edge of Time OST)
Track 8: The Doctor's Plan (Doctor Who The Edge of Time OST)
Track 9: Pure as the Driven (Ripper Street OST)
Track 10: Big Fat Liar 1:04 – 2:18 (Doctor Who Series 12 OST)
Track 11: Kiss Goodbye (An Adventure in Space and Time OST)
Track 12: Irreplaceable (An Adventure in Space and Time OST)
Track 13: Tentacles! (Class Series 1 OST)
Track 14: Long Story (Doctor Who Series 11 OST)
Track 15: Umbreen (Doctor Who Series 11 OST)
Track 16: Jenny Lewis (Primeval OST)
Track 17: Corakinus Lives (Class Series 1 OST)
Track 18: Detained 0:00 – 4:10 (Class Series 1 OST)
Track 19: Walk in Eternity 0:00 – 1:30 (Doctor Who The Edge of Time OST)
Track 20: Lazy Boy (The Last Tree OST)
ROLL TITLES
1 EXT. SEA - NIGHT
[Track 1: Gathering Strength 0:00 – 1:28] Pan across the waves overlapping each other with intense furiosity under an inky black sky - flashes of red lightning smash down from the heavy clouds towards the water, and each time the surface is charged and the bolts dispersing down into the depths illuminating it. Every now and then, the clouds break apart, revealing something beyond this small world - bright lights, but only streaming through a small tear in the sky. On the horizon sits an island, almost insignificant in the context of the vast ocean surrounding it. From a distance, it looks almost deserted, but as we move closer, a small settlement, at the bare minimum, is seen on the beach, hidden under the shadow of a huge rock formation at the centre of the island, towering up like a mountain.
2 EXT. CENTRE - NIGHT
A villager stands by a damaged well, with the heavy storm having eroded the stonework and flooding the hole. He's soaking wet, obviously, but it's something he's clearly used to, not allowing the drops to cloud his vision, his hand still firmly ringing a bell and his voice still bellowing out to his peers, who are wearing very similar clothes to him - thick, billowing robes, but very muddy and basic.
ANDAGUN
Weather Warning! Weather Warning! Weather Warning!
People sprint frantically about the settlement, holding their families close and trying to swiftly rebuild the architecture of their homes and structures with ropes, all getting harrowed and collapsing in on themselves.
ANDAGUN
Weather warning-! Everybody brace!
Lots of people dive to the floor as a huge wave rises up and comes crashing down! They're even more drenched than before, some of the villagers getting swept away as the water slinks back down towards the beach, crying out desperately for help, their friends trying to reach out. A wiser, older man, with dark skin and a large, greying beard, steps onto a podium on the cobbled streets.
RUSAN
We must move to the caves immediately! Leave everyth-AAGH!
The strong gales throw the villagers to the floor, knocking trees over and the rain intensifying. Even more buildings collapse on top of the villagers, but most of them escape, holding each others hands and making their way through the flooded forests, the big palm leaves getting battered by the torrential downpour.
3 INT. CAVE OUTLOOK - NIGHT
A fire has been started in a narrow cave built into the mountain - from the natives' tired expressions, it's clear that they've climbed up from another entrance point lower down, now having the vantage point to look over their settlement, still getting ripped to shreds. Rusan stares out in despair, cringing at the silent sobs.
RUSAN
Are we all safe? Is everybody here?
The people sit motionless with fear struck into their eye sockets. They look towards their leader briefly only to turn away sharply in grief. Rusan runs his shaking fingers through his beard as his eyes glance out into the destruction below.
ANDAGUN
What are we going to do?...I mean is there anything we can do? The nights get colder with every soul we lose and morale is worse than ever...
His voice trails off like a departing train. His emotions get the best of him, forcing him to collapse against a jagged rock extruding from the cave wall. Rusan slides his body down the curved imperfections of the wall to level with Andagun who is sat in a ball, face in his hands. His attention is briefly turned to the villagers, their fragile bodies cradled among one another.
RUSAN
I have faith in the gods that when the day comes, we will be freed from our test of strength.
[Track 1 fades] The other villagers turn towards him where they are sat, much like children gathering around a teacher for story time. A few are clearly exhausted, zoning out from Rusan's words of encouragement and leaning back onto the rough ground - for many, it's something they're used to, falling into a dream state almost immediately, but some take a while to adapt, but using the sounds of the storm echoing through the cave to soothe them.
FADE TO:
[Track 2: An Alien Forrest] It has deepened further into the night, and all, save Rusan, have fallen into a heavy sleep. He stares out into the night, feeling the weight of his task rest upon him. He reaches out his arm, allowing the raindrops to batter his hand, but unlike earlier, he embraces the harsh nature. Suddenly, the sky rumbles, but a very unusual rumble - A flash of light catches Rusan's eye, something streaming down, further, further, further, until-
CRASH!
It slams down onto the surface, creating a tremendous roar. The ground violently quakes, awaking the villagers with a start.
RUSAN
There's… there's something on the beach.
ANDAGUN
What- What?
Murmurs and disarray grow within the population, but Rusan settles them.
RUSAN
I promise that we shall see in the morning, but we must gather our strength, and it's still far too dangerous to travel with the skies opening above us. Please, try and rest.
ANDAGUN
How can we, when danger is roaming through what is left of our world? Have you no idea as to what it could be?
RUSAN
No. I don't. Please trust me. I shall keep us safe.
Rusan looks amongst his people, who have doubt seeded into their expressions, but at the same time, trust in their leader. They retreat back to their initial positions, and Rusan stands guard over them all, taking to his duty with immense seriousness.
FADE TO:
4 EXT. BEACH – MORNING
The waves fall back with a quiet hiss, revealing debris of broken stone structures, large, almost comical palm leaves and funky branches, a lot of it already buried deep into the sand. As Rusan steps onto the beach with two other villagers, wearing wool jackets as to not feel the bracing cold and gripping tightly onto wooden sticks, he feels the wet particles wrap around his foot, breaking apart as he lifts it back up with the next step, leaving an imprint that he knows will have washed away by the following morning.
KELLEN
Are you sure about this?
RUSAN
Andagun knows the way, he has served me well all this time. He shall protect our people as he has done for many excursions I have had an advantage over.
KELLEN
I meant hunting down your mystery.
RUSAN
Oh. Not exactly.
Kellen rolls his eyes, but Rusan stops dead in his tracks.
RUSAN
But there it is.
Over one of the hills presents a large object, blue and in the shape of a cube, billowing smoke – by the writing and the position of the blacked-out windows on the box, it's clear to the trio that it's on its side. The smoke seems to be filtering through the doors that are face up, with more wording and a handle.
KELLEN
By the Gods, what is it?
RUSAN
Correct. A gift by the hands of our gods. A sacrifice.
The other member of the group – a woman, with dirty white hair and wrinkles lining her forehead, steps forward.
KARA
What are these… strange symbols?
She presses her hand against the sign, fondling the gold-plated letters, then peers into the windows, despite Rusan's anxious expression, shifting hesitantly with the thought of pulling her back but at the same time fascinated by what lies before them. Thankfully, though, Rusan is startled by Kellen's yell, bringing him back to reality.
KELLEN
Come away from there! Please.
KARA
Our life has been cracked open like a boot stepping on a shell, and all that is left as a clue is this strange shape… and you want us to leave it?
KELLEN
I didn't say that. But we don't know what it is.
She steps back down, wiping her hands off and rejoining the others.
RUSAN
Come, perhaps there may be more to this than initial glances.
[Track 2 ends] Rusan circles the box, then assists the others in their search.
KELLEN
Hey!
RUSAN
What?
KELLEN
There's… there's someone here!
KARA
Here, too!
Rusan looks between his two friends, standing on opposite sides of the box, before hurrying over to Kellen. A young man, in a dirtied leather jacket is strewn uncomfortably across the sand, resting on a bruised log. The three share a look, before Kara kneels down to gently shake the man. Groaning, he throws his hand to his head and sits up. [Track 3: Emer-gency Exit]
ZACH
Eh…? What? What's… going on here…?
KELLEN
He talks! He speaks of our tongue.
RUSAN
Yet he is of a plane I don't recognise.
ZACH
Deisha, where's- Plane? No, I was on the… on the… the TARDIS. This box thing, bigger on the inside. Now I'm saying that, I'm realising how stupid it sounds. I'm not mad, I swear.
He looks past Rusan and sees the TARDIS wedged into the beach, dirtied, stained by sand and water - and more obviously, smoking.
ZACH
Definitely not mad, then. Where's the Doctor?
RUSAN
Who?
ZACH
She calls herself the Doctor. Don't ask me why, but she was… was with me. Or actually, I was with her.
He tries to stand over, but keels over, obviously still disoriented. Kellen catches him and helps him stand back up.
ZACH
Thanks.
He looks around at his environment, with the black sea washing over the sand and then retreating back, before turning around to the vast jungle with the large shrubbery and assortment of exotic plants.
ZACH
Seriously though, what the hell is going on?
He can barely make out the Doctor's boots on the other side of the police box, stumbling towards her.
ZACH
Doc- Doctor? Doctor!
He falls to her side, seeing her half buried under the sand and easily dragging her out.
ZACH
Please don't be dead. Doctor!
She sits up with a jolt.
DOCTOR
Oh my word, do you have to yell in my ear like that?
He grins with relief, sitting back on the sand and wiping the sweat off his forehead.
DOCTOR
Honestly, I was just having a little nap…
ZACH
No time for that. I think we're on an alien planet… Doesn't look like Earth, anyway.
DOCTOR
No… That okay?
ZACH
Yep. Sure. Well, I don't really have a choice, though, do I? Um, also I think your machine broke.
Her eyes widen, jumping to her feet and running to the TARDIS.
DOCTOR
Oh, no, no, no. No, no, no, no, no.
ZACH
Can it be fixed?
DOCTOR
She's a she, not an it.
ZACH
Sorry, can she be fixed?
DOCTOR
Not easily.
She pats herself down.
DOCTOR
And certainly not without my key. I must've dropped it somewhere on the beach, have a look around for it.
She goes to scour the beach, but Rusan stops her.
DOCTOR
Oh, sorry, didn't see you there. Don't suppose you've seen any keys, have you?
RUSAN
Have you come from the sky?
The Doctor glances up towards the sky for a few moments, almost as if she's studying the strange patterns in space, then refocuses on Rusan.
DOCTOR
Could say that, yeah. Why?
RUSAN
Then it's true. You are our salvation.
DOCTOR
Ah, well I always try to be! You might be able to help me out too, looks like the extractor fans aren't working. You got a pin or something? That should restart the motor.
He raises his pointed staff, and the other two follow suit.
DOCTOR
Well, I think that's a bit big, but I can always give it a go-
He prods the Doctor, prompting her and Zach to move in their direction.
DOCTOR
Oh, alright! Cheeky.
They make their way off the beach, rather nervously. [Track 3 ends]
5 EXT. JUNGLE – MORNING
[Track 4: London] Rusan takes charge, using his stick to cut through the foliage until they find the main path; Kellen and Kara are taking up the rear; and the Doctor and Zach are sandwiched in the middle. He takes note of a few creatures scurrying into the lush bushes – pink, hairless rats, with beady eyes and six legs. They hide in the shadow of the leaves, watching on as the group continues to voyage through their territory.
ZACH
Yeah, so I've got a few more questions.
DOCTOR
You like to keep journeys entertaining, don't you? Good to see travel hasn't changed you. Go ahead, then.
ZACH
Um, where? Who? How?
He gestures to the environment around him.
DOCTOR
I'll take your questions one at a time. I don't know, I don't know and… bad flying. From the context, I think we crashed.
ZACH
No sh-
DOCTOR
BUT… I don't exactly know how. There was nothing there, we were traversing deep space, on our way to the closest planet in sight, Salfax. It's a planet made from pure gold, and there are some regions of the planet that are so hot, that it's liquid – imagine seeing a gold waterfall! Anyway, suddenly the systems became jammed and here we are. And I dunno, something feels… off about this place. Don't you feel it?
ZACH
Like the fact we've been captured?
DOCTOR
No, it's like a tang. Something in the air.
ZACH
How am I supposed to know? This is my first alien planet, it feels completely different. The furthest I've travelled is Newcastle.
DOCTOR
Oh, I love Newcastle!
ZACH
Really? Why?
DOCTOR
Most planets are normal – might have a different gravity, lack of air, all that, but this… it's like a buzzing in my ears, a warning alarm, telling me something's wrong.
ZACH
I've had that – you're telling me that's not meant to happen?
DOCTOR
Not to my knowledge.
She brushes back her hair, looking back up to the sky, glimmering through the large, thick leaves.
ZACH
What are you looking at?
DOCTOR
Space.
ZACH
Space?
They come towards a clearing, looking towards the settlement which lies in ruins.
ZACH
What happened here?
DOCTOR
I dunno. Raids? War?
KELLEN
The gods.
ZACH
Sorry, your gods did this to you?
KELLEN
Correct. Don't fear, though. You shall change all that.
DOCTOR
And how are we meant to do that?
KELLEN
By fulfilling your purpose.
They push them down the slope. [Track 4 ends]
6 INT. STONE RUINS – MORNING
[Track 5: Tendril] The Doctor and Zach enter the remains of one of the buildings, square in shape – a lot of the stonework has crippled away, and wooden beams have collapsed and splintered, almost creating diagonal archways between the walls and the mud floor. Part of the framework still stands, but bare and naked, allowing Zach to infer the majesty of what the structure must have been like in its prime.
ZACH
Are they just going to keep us here now?
The Doctor slumps against a wall, once again staring up into the sky.
ZACH
Seriously, what are you doing?
DOCTOR
Trying to determine the point in space at which we are. Bit hard during the day, but not impossible. That sun, there's something off about it. Sort of shimmering.
ZACH
Don't stare at it too long, you'll hurt your eyes.
She sighs, resting her head in her hands, almost bored.
ZACH
Do you have a plan?
DOCTOR
Not exactly.
ZACH
Do you know what they're going to do with us?
DOCTOR
Not exactly.
ZACH
I'm so glad I've got you, then. Stuck on an alien planet and who do I have to rely on? The science fiction equivalent of Joey from Friends.
DOCTOR
Oh, come on! Chandler, at least.
ZACH
Somehow that's worse.
He turns around and begins to pace back and forth. [Track 5 ends]
7 EXT. CENTRE – MORNING
[Track 6: Ranskoor av Kolos] The crowd gathers in the square, climbing over broken trees and rubble to flock around Rusan.
RUSAN
I know many of you are wondering what the strangers' presence is. But I assure you, that our troubles should soon be over.
Clamours of excitement and hesitance.
RUSAN
For I believe these strangers… to be an offering. A gift that we shall soon return to our overlords. This is the pinnacle of our great strength. This is the final challenge, to prove our loyalty to them. Kara, Sayan, please prepare the runes.
Kara and Sayan bow to Rusan before hurrying away.
RUSAN
As our way dictates, they are a present from the Great Beyond, and so they shall stay that way. We shall treat them with delicacy and fondness until the time comes when they shall return to whence they came. Cora, please tend to their nutritional needs. They must be well-fed for the event that shall take place at midnight tonight.
The young girl, Cora, with muddy hair and tanned skin, looks up meekly.
CORA
But our foodstocks have already been stripped.
RUSAN
That is why Andagun shall lead his party to hunt.
ANDAGUN
We will bring honour to you, my chief.
RUSAN
As for the rest of us, a new era dawns. This is a new age for our world, and we must be ready. We are not in a fit state to welcome it. We must rebuild, repair, save what we can. Search this area and salvage what we can bring with us to the New World. This is our time!
A simultaneous cheer, almost like a chant, bursts out, echoing across the village.
8 INT. STONE RUINS – MORNING
They hear the chant, prompting Zach to try and peek through the loose stones. The Doctor sits in a cross-legged position, almost as if she's meditating.
ZACH
Sounds like they're massing for a war or something out there. Hey, I'm sure we could break out of here. They're not cemented together or anything, what kind of rubbish design is that?
DOCTOR
Then what?
ZACH
We get the parts and go home.
DOCTOR
Have you thought about this?
ZACH
It's easy, just help me out here.
It's at this point the Doctor stands up to focus on Zach.
DOCTOR
Just think. There's a reason that these stones aren't cemented. This civilisation is basic. They've got minimal resources, and you want to steal even more from them? Take everything away?
ZACH
We don't have a choice!
DOCTOR
There's always a choice!
The door swings open, and the pair falls silent. Cora steps in, balancing a tray with two wooden bowls and a bit of slop in each, sort of like a green soup, before placing it down before them. She keeps them in her eyesight at all times, wary and vigilant.
ZACH
What's this?
CORA
It's food. On the command of our chief, you are to be well looked after by me.
DOCTOR
Thank you so much. What's your name?
CORA
C-Cora.
She begins to have a coughing fit. Instinctively, Zach goes to help her, but she stumbles back.
CORA
Stay away!
ZACH
S…sorry… Are you okay?
She runs back out and the door slams shut, locking once again. He grimaces, unable to get the girl out of his mind. He glances at the Doctor, who's very stern.
DOCTOR
Is that who you want to condemn? Innocent children, families, real life? Just to save your own skin.
ZACH
That girl… What's wrong?
DOCTOR
Rudimentary medical supplies, weak immune system… Bound to contract an infection eventually.
ZACH
Is there anything we can do to help her?
DOCTOR
You've changed your tune.
Zach's face falls into the shadows. [Track 6 ends]
FADE TO:
9 INT. DEISHA'S BEDROOM – NIGHT
[Track 7: Emer's Theme 0:00 – 0:51] The warm glow of Deisha's bedside lamp barely illuminates her room – the walls are coated in a vivid yellow, decorated with lots of drawings of the London landscape, all roughly similar to the one outside her window in which a potted cactus resides. Other drawings include Disney princesses (the most notable being Moana), self-portraits and a few flowers; it's obvious that these have been made by Deisha, and she is incredibly skilled – even if they aren't exactly hung up all too expertly. There are a few shelves on the wall opposite her closet, propping up a few children's books and a stack of old kids' movies, guarded by plushies on either side. More lights run around the rim of the ceiling, shining in the colours of the rainbow, bringing a sparkle to the girl's bedroom. Deisha is wrapped up tightly in her pyjamas, tucked into her twin bed with bright blue colours. Zach is sat on the other end, passing a mug to her.
ZACH
Exactly as you asked, madam.
DEISHA
Thanks.
She coughs a little, but takes a drink.
ZACH
That better?
DEISHA
Much.
ZACH
How's your head?
DEISHA
Still… headachey.
ZACH
Well, hot chocolate is a known factor to cure colds.
DEISHA
Really?
ZACH
I dunno, it's got hot in the name, it's a direct contrast to cold…
Deisha stifles a giggle.
ZACH
You miss your friends today?
DEISHA
A little, I guess.
ZACH
Whaddya think they're up to right now?
DEISHA
Probably homework.
ZACH
Oh, there's homework? I better contact your friends and ask them what it is, then!
DEISHA
No- Daaad!
ZACH
Oh, do you hear that?
Zach imitates a ringing sound, and takes out his phone.
ZACH
Oh, you'll never guess who it is! It's only Lily White.
DEISHA
Stop, seriously!
ZACH
How funny, we were just talking about you. You wouldn't happen to have your class' homework, would you?
DEISHA
Dad!
They both chuckle together, then hug for comfort. [Track 7 ends]
10 INT. STONE RUINS – MORNING
The laughter echoes away, and Zach is brought back to the present situation. The shadow of the leaves that were cast upon his face have now faded away.
ZACH
What can we do to help?
DOCTOR
There's got to be some resources in the TARDIS, cables, computers, stuff like that.
ZACH
What's that going to do?
DOCTOR
On its own, not much. But hopefully they've got some resources somewhere on this island. It just needs a technical mind to connect it together.
ZACH
They don't seem to be the most considerate of people, though.
DOCTOR
They brought us food!
ZACH
Yeah, after they locked us up. How do we convince them that we're here to help?
She strokes her chin for a few moments, then her face lights up. She drops to the floor and starts carving some shapes and patterns in the mud.
ZACH
Woah, uh… what are you doing?
DOCTOR
Planning.
ZACH
You know, I really appreciate it that you can never give me a straight answer.
DOCTOR
Sarcasm?
ZACH
You bet. Planning what?
DOCTOR
I'm planning… something extravagant. The best trick ever performed.
He crouches down, befuddled.
ZACH
You're going to do a magic trick…
She reaches behind his ear, revealing a shiny gold coin. He does a mock gasp, like a parent to a child.
11 EXT. RUNES – DAY
[Track 8: The Doctor's Plan] The sun is continuing to shimmer, now at the peak of the daytime. On the top of a large ledge extruding from the mountain walls, sits a few natural stone structures, positioned perfectly into a circle. Engravings have been carved into them, presenting strange symbols with some forgotten meaning. Beside the rocks are long sheets of cloth, that are usually draped over them. Sayan is picking them up and throwing them into a bundle, whilst Kara is knelt in front of the central stone in the middle, fashioning a tablet. She rests her hand on the tablet and bows her head before it.
KARA
Forgive us our trespass, in honour we bring eternal life. We praise your sayings, your meanings, and wish to understand them forevermore. Forgive us, our Lords. Forgive us our trespass…
The wind picks up a little, blowing Kara back and forcing her to stand.
KARA
They have heard our pleas. Next time, don't forget to ask before removing the shrouds.
SAYAN
I apologise, I was… distracted.
KARA
By what?
SAYAN
What do you think?
Kara places a comforting hand on Sayan's shoulder.
KARA
Your love has transcended to the Great Beyond. It is there she shall-
SAYAN
-Teach the Lords of our bond, and it shall bring further virtue down upon us, I know the sayings. But it shouldn't be like that.
KARA
What?
SAYAN
We must lose what we love to be happy? I look around and I don't see happiness. I see death, destruction, calamity. Many people have lost our loves, but I see no virtue, no fortune, nothing that makes it worth the loss.
Kara steps back, almost disturbed by Sayan's declaration.
KARA
Did you do that on purpose? Desecrating the runes as a form of disrespect? You did a very good job at it!
SAYAN
Why do we praise those who gave us life if all that we experience is death? These rituals, asking to move about our land, they result to nothing that we believe in!
KARA
Sayan, for shame! Damnation upon you!
SAYAN
What good will damnation do?! We've already been sentenced to a life of bereavement. Our demise has been locked in, and no faith shall change that.
He buries his hands in the shrouds and begins to walk down the path, heaving a dead sigh.
KARA
Sayan!
Kara swiftly turns back to the stones, beginning to utter further words of prayer and forgiveness, almost terrified of the argument between them. [Track 8 ends]
12 EXT. SEA – DAY
Wide shot of the island, as the sun passes over it and the night sky begins to descend.
13 INT. STONE RUINS – NIGHT
Zach is playing with his food. He looks up to the Doctor, who is still working away and hasn't touched her food.
ZACH
You should eat.
DOCTOR
Time Lords have a different digestion system to humans, we don't need to eat as much. It's better if it actually goes to someone who needs it.
ZACH
Are you judging me for eating? They gave it to us, it's called manners.
DOCTOR
They're starving.
ZACH
I'm starving! Believe it or not, I don't have lots of money. I don't know who you usually hang out with in your fancy spaceship, Doctor, but some of us are on the bare minimum. Luckily, I can afford a nice place, and it's nicely decorated, but there are some people I know who don't even have that, and they really appreciate it when they're a guest in my home. This is me showing my appreciation. Don't you dare try and say that I am taking advantage of them.
The Doctor is left speechless. The door opens, and Kellen enters with Andagun.
DOCTOR
Ah! Some friends at last.
Zach turns away from the Doctor to face the two men.
DOCTOR
Nice to make your acquaintance. What can I do for you two boys?
ANDAGUN
We are to escort you to the runes. You shall return to your place of origin, and be sat at the right hand of our Lords.
DOCTOR
Place of origin?
ANDAGUN
The Great Beyond.
DOCTOR
Now, from where I'm standing, that sounds like some sort of afterlife, am I correct?
KELLEN
You should know.
DOCTOR
Yes, I should, shouldn't I? Anyway, lead the way, gentlemen!
The Doctor and Zach follow Kellen and Andagun.
14 EXT. RUNES – NIGHT
[Track 9: Pure as the Driven] They are tied with a material very similar to fishing rope to a pole wedged into the middle of the centre stone. The wind howls, bringing an icy chill to the two prisoners. They watch as all of the villagers climb up the hill towards the ledge, approaching the runes in a line, each professing a short prayer and bowing before it before surrounding them.
ZACH
What are they doing?
DOCTOR
Showing their respect. They think we're some sort of offering to the gods, this is sacred ground. Worse than that, I think these are sacrificial stones.
ZACH
Sorry, I think I misheard you. Did you just say SACRIFICIAL stones?
DOCTOR
I mean, I could be wrong.
The Doctor sees Rusan grasping an object shaped like a dagger, with a few strange symbols on it like the ones on the stones.
DOCTOR
Probably not, though.
ZACH
Now's the time for your magic trick.
DOCTOR
Yes, quite right. Well, I sort of need to be untied to perform the trick.
ZACH
Let me get this right. You planned a trick to free yourself.
DOCTOR
Yes.
ZACH
Under the implication you had free movement.
DOCTOR
Yes.
ZACH
While we were prisoners.
DOCTOR
Yes. Starting to see the flaws in this plan, now. Thankfully, I've spent quite a bit of time with Houdini. Nice chap, loved planes, great at pub quizzes.
ZACH
What, really?
DOCTOR
No. Well…
ZACH
You're doing the "being intentionally confusing to distract me" bit again.
DOCTOR
Am I?
ZACH
So do we actually have a plan?
DOCTOR
Yes!
ZACH
One we can carry out?
DOCTOR
Uh, no.
ZACH
Oh, my god.
DOCTOR
I just need to catch the rope on a splinter, then I can start cutting it.
She fumbles with her hands against the pole, trying to break free. The entire village has finished their prayers and now watch on at the ceremony. Rusan is in a rather elegant gown, addressing his people.
RUSAN
Welcome, my people! This is a joyous occasion! For here, these two mortals shall take away our sins and free us from the shackles of damnation!
ZACH
The name "Pontius Pilate" is coming to mind…
RUSAN
Please, confess your sins, so they may be lost in the winds forever!
SAYAN
No!
Sayan runs forward into the centre, thrusting his staff into the centre stone. The pole that the Doctor and Zach were tied to comes free, throwing them out of the circle as the stones spark and crash, the symbols of the runes lighting up and fluctuating. The villagers all fall to the grounds.
ZACH
Augh… was that part of the plan?
DOCTOR
No, but it worked. Look, my hands are free.
The Doctor stands up to perform her magic trick, but Zach pulls her back.
ZACH
I don't think that's necessary, look.
Rusan and the other villagers stare in shock and horror at Sayan's actions.
RUSAN
Sayan! What devilry is this?! Dare you desecrate our traditions?
SAYAN
Our traditions are false! Look at us! We lose over and over and over and still we stay at mere survival! There's something more to life than fighting constantly!
RUSAN
Consider your actions, boy!
SAYAN
I have! I've followed our laws blindly, we all have, and now it's time to reject them!
Rusan expels a blood-curdling yell, and two people instinctively respond to this, throwing Sayan to his knees and keeping a firm grip on his shoulders. Rusan treads forwards, pointing the dagger at Sayan's neck. His breath wavers.
SAYAN
What now? You kill me for my free will?
RUSAN
No. The Lords say that death is a gift.
SAYAN
Then they're wrong! Death brings nothing but-
Rusan smacks Sayan on the cheek and he falls to the floor. The Doctor bursts forward, interjecting herself between Rusan and Sayan.
DOCTOR
Hey! You have to stop this now. You don't need to kill anyone!
RUSAN
What? Why do you say this?
ZACH
Because you're right! We are from the Great Beyond, but we're not offerings, we're messengers! We're here to help you take advantage of your resources!
DOCTOR
Yes, we are! Thank you, Zach! My box, the one on the beach, that sign says advice and assistance obtainable immediately. That's us! Come on, what do you say?
Rusan's vengeful eyes drop, as does the dagger to the floor. The Doctor shakes his hand. [Track 9 ends]
DOCTOR
Thank you.
Zach runs to Sayan and kneels down to help him.
ZACH
Are you okay?
SAYAN
Urh… yes, yes.
DOCTOR
Now, when does the tide come in?
RUSAN
It already has.
DOCTOR
No… no, no, no.
ZACH
What?
DOCTOR
The TARDIS key. I lost it on the beach. If the tide has come in…
ZACH
It'll get washed out to sea- We can't get back in!
KARA
Sorry- Is it this you're after?
Kara takes out the TARDIS key from her threadbare pocket. The Doctor's face lights up gleefully, taking it from her.
RUSAN
Where did you find that?
KARA
It was next to them when I found them on the beach.
DOCTOR
Oh, thank you. You don't know how much this means to have it back!
Zach gets in close to the Doctor.
ZACH
We can leave now, right?
DOCTOR
No. The TARDIS is still damaged, and these people still need help. It looks like we'll be here for a while…
Zach raises an eyebrow.
15 EXT. CENTRE – DAY
ONE MONTH LATER…
[Track 10: Big Fat Liar 1:04 – 2:18] Pan down from the clear sky towards the settlement – the structures have been rebuilt, maybe to a lesser extent, but now there is a flood barrier encircling it, made from corroded bricks and now a strange form of cement. Zach comes out from a hut, now embracing the culture in which he has been immersed with clothing very similar to the other residents – a long, beige gown (but his white T-Shirt is still underneath). He walks along the path, taking note of the children playing, before seeing a few men come out from the jungle, in the direction of the beach and carrying advanced pieces of equipment. Zach looks down to the men by the lake; once a valley, but with the contraptions surrounding it, it's clear that the rain water has been filtered and drained down towards it. The men are fishing, and rather enthusiastic about it. Zach turns to some of the women, who are atop the flood barrier, and scribbling away at some notebooks – from contest, Zach knows that they are studying the environment and incoming weather. He takes a left and heads towards the stone ruins, passing the guards and entering through the wooden door encased in the archway.
16 INT. STONE RUINS – DAY
The framework and remnants of the tower are now gone – instead, a simple wood board has taken the place of the ceiling. Sayan is inside, sat tucked away in the corner and grimacing. Zach pokes his head inside and edges forward.
ZACH
Good morning.
Sayan responds with a single grunt. Zach throws him a foodstuff – it looks like bread, but it has an odd texture. Sayan eyes it cautiously.
ZACH
You know, people normally say thank you. Nothing to say?
SAYAN
This is tainted.
He chucks it away.
ZACH
That was a waste. If you didn't want it, someone else could've.
Zach awkwardly stuffs it back in his pocket.
SAYAN
You lied to them.
ZACH
Oh, did I?
SAYAN
There're no gods. These traditions are false.
ZACH
And how would you know that? Everyone else seems drilled into their beliefs. So how come you've got free will?
SAYAN
The more pressing question is… who really are you?
ZACH
I could say the same thing.
They stare off at each other. [Track 10 ends]
SAYAN
It's funny. Your eyes…
ZACH
What about them?
SAYAN
I hadn't noticed before. They have a hardness about them. But you hide that. You hide that around your friends, you hide that in your language, but the eyes are a window to the soul. And it is empty.
Sayan's face softens, sympathising. [Track 11: Kiss Goodbye]
SAYAN
Why do you show me your truth now? And… and why do you come much later than usual? The light has changed – you arrive at dawn, not now. What kept you occupied this morning?
ZACH
…Nothing.
SAYAN
More lies. I wonder, is there any truth within you? Is there any part of you that holds honesty?
Zach grits his teeth.
ZACH
Shut up.
SAYAN
What?
ZACH
I said shut up!
His breath trembles.
17 INT. ZACH'S HUT – NIGHT
Zach is tucked up on a primitive bed in a hut – fairly basic, with a poorly constructed desk on one wall beside a window and a carpet strewn on the dirt floor. Zach throws back his covers, fidgeting, choking on his breath, staring at the lights of the night streaming through the window. He sits up, exhausted, broken, lost in his thoughts. He takes a pack of tissues that are on his desk, then feels his face – dry. He looks confused at this, as if there should be tears. He sits back in his bed, and stares up at the ceiling, trying to sleep, but failing to.
18 INT. STONE RUINS – DAY
Zach stares at Sayan, sighing.
ZACH
I'm sorry. It's stupid, doesn't matter.
SAYAN
Whatever it is… I'm sorry.
ZACH
It's fine, I'm fine. I-
He stands up straight, washing away a hint of his true feelings, and returns to his stern expression.
ZACH
If you feel like opening up about who you really are, let me know.
Zach marches off, but stops as he hears a faint-
SAYAN
You too.
He looks back at Sayan, and the two share a smile. [Track 11 ends]
19 EXT. BEACH - DAY
[Track 12: Irreplaceable] Zach strolls along the beach towards the TARDIS. He knocks on the door, and almost immediately, the Doctor pokes her head out, blocking Zach's view inside rather suspiciously.
ZACH
Oh. Hi, uh… Just wanted to know how the repairs are going?
DOCTOR
Fine. But it's still very dangerous, shouldn't go in.
She steps out and swiftly shuts the door behind her.
ZACH
Oh, okay.
DOCTOR
Apparently, there's a hole in Lera's roof again, and there's prediction of a storm in 30 minutes, so better get that fixed.
He looks up, confused at the sunny weather.
ZACH
30 minutes? You're sure about that?
DOCTOR
The environment works differently here. It's disturbed, fickle.
She starts towards the jungle, and Zach stares after her.
ZACH
Doctor? I was thinking…
She glances back.
ZACH
That day at the café back home… You said you passed through different places, helping out.
She shoves her hands back in her pockets, walking back towards him.
ZACH
This… this isn't passing through. This is staying. I know the TARDIS is broken and all, but if she wasn't… would we still be here?
DOCTOR
…I don't know. There are people who need help here, they need us looking after them, but…
She sighs.
DOCTOR
I've been… I've been studying the stars, working out exactly where we are in space. There are none… Except for a small crack in the sky.
ZACH
Oh. So?
DOCTOR
Imagine the Universe like a bathtub, full of water. Every now and again, bubbles form. Small, separate universes, temporarily housed inside the main Universe. But soon enough, they die out. This one seems to be determined to stick around. That's what that buzzing is behind our ears. We're in the wrong space. We're not in our own universe, and our minds know that, sending us a warning alarm.
ZACH
Warning alarm for what?
DOCTOR
To get out. The bubble shouldn't be lasting as long as it is, it's weaking the integrity of both universes. I think we're keeping it open. The longer this place exists, the closer we get to destruction. They need us. If we leave, they'll die, but if we don't, we're endangering our Universe.
Zach pouts for a few moments, then frowns, incredibly concerned. [Track 12 ends]
ZACH
But that can't be right. If it's a bubble, and it's not meant to last long, then how did the people evolve into what they are now?
The Doctor realises. Suddenly, her attention is caught by Kellen, running from the jungle in a heavy sweat. [Track 13: Tentacles!]
ZACH
What is it, what's wrong?
KELLEN
Something's wrong with Cora. Please, come take a look.
The Doctor and Zach throw each other a worried expression, then rush back.
20 INT. THE DOCTOR'S HUT - DAY
A storm rumbles overhead, adding to the doomed atmosphere within the hut. Rain is battering the wooden roof which covers the hut, but it's still managing to keep the weather away from basic surgery tools and a range of medical equipment which lie flat out on a splintered wooden table. On a slab lies Cora, sickly and pale. Her forehead is perspiring immensely, but the Doctor is tending to her, Zach by her side.
DOCTOR
Water?
Zach passes her a glass of water, which is forwarded onto Cora.
DOCTOR
Take a swig of that.
She drinks the water, then wipes her mouth and places it back on the table.
CORA
Am I going to be okay?
DOCTOR
You've had to fight off countless diseases with scarcely an immune system. It's hard to pinpoint what exactly you've got, and if there's even a remedy I can procure here.
ZACH
Is there anything I can do?
DOCTOR
Not here. They might need you outside. Check in with Rusan, find out how the co-ordination is going.
ZACH
Okay. Before I go- Cora, can I ask? Where are your parents?
CORA
Parents?
ZACH
Mum, dad.
CORA
I'm sorry, I don't know what you're talking about.
The Doctor frowns.
DOCTOR
I don't get it.
ZACH
It's like I was saying, they couldn't have evolved in a bubble. That takes millions of years. They came from nowhere. They don't have families.
DOCTOR
That can't be right. Cora, how were you born?
CORA
Born?
She takes out the sonic and scans her. Upon looking at the readings, she scronches her face.
DOCTOR
What?! This doesn't make any sense!
They hear a commotion outside.
ZACH
You keep working here, I'll go and see what can be done out there.
He hurries out of the Doctor's hut.
DOCTOR
How old are you, Cora?
CORA
I… I don't know.
DOCTOR
When you were a baby, who looked after you?
CORA
I was never a baby.
DOCTOR
What? You don't age? You've been a 10 year old girl your entire life?
CORA
Year?
Once again, the Doctor scronches her face – in utter disbelief.
DOCTOR
It can't be…
She shakes her head, confounded. [Track 13 ends]
21 EXT. CENTRE – DAY
[Track 14: Long Story] The sun has disappeared behind the storm clouds. Zach bounds over to Rusan, who's busy ordering his people about.
ZACH
Rusan! What's the plan?
RUSAN
We must evacuate!
ZACH
What?! I thought we agreed, those old tactics are a force of habit, it's going to get people killed! Get everyone inside, let the machines do their work!
RUSAN
The 'machines' have already failed us!
ZACH
What?
RUSAN
They've split apart! Down by the lake!
ZACH
Oh, no, no, no, no, no!
He spins around and starts towards the lake, wiping the rain from his eyes.
22 EXT. LAKE – DAY
The metal shafts which carried the water down towards the lake have collapsed onto the wooden frame, with the fishermen travailing to hoist it back up to its original position. Zach joins them.
ZACH
What happened?!
FISHERMAN
Iss the pipes, they jus' gave wey!
ZACH
The flood barriers are still in place – if this happens all over the village, the entire place will drown!
FISHERMAN
Can we lower 'em?
ZACH
Not enough time! We need to reassert the foundations first, rebuild the ballast!
As the fishermen begin to hold the supports together, Zach sprints over to pick up some sturdy rope and planks of wood. He rushes back, binding the rope and the wood together to create a lift.
ZACH
Nice to see Scouts worked out after all! You two, help me carry this!
Zach and two other fishermen carry the metal shaft onto the lift. He throws the other side of the rope around.
ZACH
Alright, everyone keep it steady! I'm going to put the pipe back on the frame, then we'll use the rope to tie it together – that'll work til the rain stops! Hopefully…
Zach climbs under the frame to get to the rope on the other side. The fishermen all struggle to hold the frame in place due to the heavy downpour of the torrential rain.
ZACH
We ready? Heave!
He tugs at the rope, leaving burns on his hands as the lift raises up, careering it towards the frame and placing it down. Zach climbs up on the shoulders of two of the fishermen to remove the lift and use the rope to tie the shaft into place.
ZACH
That should work, now get out of here, go!
The fishermen sprint away back to the settlement, but as Zach goes to follow, he glances back at the lake and hesitates. In the centre forms a whirlpool, made of whites and greys, looking very odd in the usually still lake.
ZACH
What the hell…?
The water rises up the banks towards him, before forming into the shape of a fist and grabbing his ankle.
ZACH
Wha- Aargh!
A wave rises up and washes over him, pulling him further and further into the whirlpool, before- [Track 14 ends]
CUT TO BLACK:
23 EXT. CENTRE – MORNING
The Doctor pokes her head out of her hut to see the aftermath; whilst there are lots of fallen trees and the paths are drenched with rain, most of the settlement has remained intact. She gleams.
24 INT. THE DOCTOR'S HUT – MORNING
[Track 15: Umbreen] She turns back inside to focus on Cora whose condition, if anything, has worsened.
DOCTOR
Good news is, your gaff is still standing.
CORA
And the bad news?
Cora's voice is croaky.
DOCTOR
I don't understand your biology, I've never seen anything like it. It's like your blood has its own filtration system. Completely clean and allows the optimum elements needed. No infections, no diseases, nothing. Has anything like this happened before? To other people?
CORA
Y… yes.
DOCTOR
And have they died?
CORA
Yes.
DOCTOR
Where are their bodies? Do your people store them? I need to compare the results.
CORA
There are no bodies. They just… disappear.
DOCTOR
What?
CORA
There's no trace of them.
DOCTOR
And you assume they're dead?
CORA
Yes.
DOCTOR
Nothing about your culture makes any sense. No diseases, yet you're ill. Death is honourable, yet never seen. How can you know what death is if the bodies just disappear? How can you come to that conclusion? How can there be death without birth?
She rummages in her pocket and takes out a small pill.
DOCTOR
Take this.
CORA
What is it?
DOCTOR
Antibiotic. From my studies of your body, it can't hurt you, but I don't know what the effect will be, either curing you or nothing. 50/50 split. Put it on your tongue and drink some water.
Cora follows the Doctor's directions, swallowing the tablet, leaving a rather sour taste in her mouth.
DOCTOR
There you go. Now, get some rest, I'll be back in half an hour or so. I need to find Zach.
She strolls out of her hut.
25 EXT. CENTRE – MORNING
The Doctor wanders through the settlement, moving her head around continuously like it's on a ball joint. She calls out for Zach, but instead, bumps into a fisherman.
DOCTOR
Ah! Sorry- have you seen Zach anywhere?
FISHERMAN
Not sint' yesserday.
DOCTOR
Where was he?
FISHERMAN
Down by the lake, 'e was. Fisking that silly pipe.
DOCTOR
Thanks.
She runs off towards the lake.
26 EXT. LAKE – MORNING
Once again, the lake has returned to calm – a few trees litter the water, and its banks are dampened with rocks and wet sand. The Doctor examines the makeshift repair on the gutter, smiling proudly.
DOCTOR
Bit shoddy on the left side, the rope's a bit weak underneath, but overall nice work, Zach! Now where did you go?
She takes out the sonic and begins to whip around, pointing it forward as it glows a deep yellow, blinking at a high-pitched frequency. She gasps.
DOCTOR
Oh! Massive sonic transmissions coming from the lake. No, not from the lake… TO the lake! Someone was controlling the elements? Wait, but that means… the weather going haywire, that was on purpose. Who would do that? And how, and why? What were they doing? Hang on, if I can… replicate the source feed- Got it!
She points the sonic at the lake, and once again the whirlpool forms.
DOCTOR
You are beautiful! I mean, totally perilous and not at all good news, but the mastery to do that… Wait, wait, wait, wait, there's more to the signal! Oh, that's clever! That's how the lake is the same volume as before, part of it drained into a small hole in the ground, like… like a water slide. More water, more draining and it remains the exact same. Balanced, but what… Water slide. Oh, no, no, Zach.
She rushes back immediately. [Track 15 ends]
27 INT. CAVE – MORNING
Zach is faceplanting the uneven rocky floor. As he wakes up, he tries to stand up, but bangs his head on the ceiling, much lower than expected.
ZACH
Ow! God…
He takes this time to look around – he is standing an asymmetrical tunnel, the walls emanating an effervescent, warm light. He notes that the floor is immersed in a small layer of water, and he now heads towards the source.
28 EXT. CENTRE – MORNING
[Track 16: Jenny Lewis] The Doctor rings the bell anxiously, as all the villagers, bemused, edge out of their homes.
DOCTOR
Good morning, everyone, sorry for this! We've got a bit of a problem. Well, problem and some answers, which is always the way, isn't it?
RUSAN
What?
DOCTOR
My friend Zach has been taken.
Gasps and gawps are imitated from the crowd.
DOCTOR
The good news is, it's helped me figure out a bit more about your planet. Someone is working behind the scenes to manipulate the conditions of your world to make it more hostile. The lake created a whirlpool and I think he was sucked in – Normally, I think that'd mean he's dead, but there was more to that whirlpool, it pulled him underground. That means, wherever he is, I need to be there too, cos it might be the key to uncovering this mystery. I can't work out how far down it goes. Now, I wouldn't normally put you in danger like this, but I need some volunteers to help me. You know the terrain, any clues of what we find will be integral.
RUSAN
I shall come, as will Kellen and Andagun. They are my best men, and they won't let you down.
KARA
No!
Rusan turns and stares at Kara.
RUSAN
What did you say?
KARA
You always pick Andagun and Kellen for the important tasks, you always side with them, you never listen to the rest of us!
RUSAN
Don't you speak against me, girl.
KARA
I don't appreciate your tone, my chief.
She looks over to the Doctor.
KARA
I volunteer myself. I want to help. I don't need yours or Rusan's approval.
DOCTOR
Glad to have you aboard.
SAYAN (oc)
Me too.
The Doctor hears a voice, and looks around. She notices Sayan watching from a small bay window in his stone confinement.
SAYAN
If you're going to learn the truth, I want to be by your side. I'm sick of the indoctrination, listening to what others spout as the only way. I want to know the objective, not the subjective. And your friend is missing… He cared for me, even when no-one else did. He brought me food, kept me warm… He was so kind, always helped me. I would like to return the favour.
FISHERMAN
'e saved all of us lass night. 'e's never been uncivil or rude. 'e's been one of t'nicest people I known. We shall pray for you to rescue 'im.
DOCTOR
Thank you. Kara and Sayan will come with me.
RUSAN
What? This is absurd! You can't seriously be consigning a traitor!
KARA
Sir, with respect, shut up. Instead of running around like a headless Ghurkel and doing whatever the hell you want, go and be a leader for once.
Kara hurries over to the stone building, whilst Rusan stands, frozen with a look of loss on his face. The door unlocks and Sayan steps out, taking a heavy breath of fresh air.
SAYAN
Thank you.
DOCTOR
Now, team! There's no time to lose.
The Doctor whispers to Rusan.
DOCTOR
I'll bring your people back, I promise.
RUSAN
Just save your friend and stop this nightmare. Please.
DOCTOR
I'll do my best. While I'm gone, there's a girl in my hut, Cora. Please make sure that she's cared for until I return.
RUSAN
I'll set Kel…
Rusan glances over to Kara, then back to the Doctor.
RUSAN
I'll see to it myself.
DOCTOR
Thank you.
She beams, prompting a similar response from him, then the three dart back down to the lake. As soon as the Doctor is out of sight, his smile drops. [Track 16 ends]
29 EXT. LAKE – DAY
[Track 17: Corakinus Lives] The Doctor, Sayan and Kara are stood, watching the water ripple back and swirl around into the same shape it has before.
SAYAN
You're sure about this?
DOCTOR
Not at all. Ready?
Kara dives into the lake, and the Doctor and Sayan hastily follow – just like before, the wave begins to rise up, and crash down upon them, engulfing their screams with water.
30 INT. CAVE – DAY
The ceiling opens up, and washes them inside. All three of them take a few moments to recover – naturally the Doctor is the first one up, giddy with the excitement of the ride, whilst Sayan is up second, obviously less giddy and wearing an indignant snarl, becoming ever more present on his face as he, too, bangs his head, and Kara is the last one to stand, uncomfortable and weary, stumbling about the place.
DOCTOR
Well, that was easier than expected. Shall we go again?
SAYAN
No!
DOCTOR
Alright, suit yourself.
The hole in the ceiling closes up, sealing the day away from them and leaving the only source of light to be the ethereal glow of the cavern walls.
DOCTOR
Entrance blocked. No way to go but forward.
SAYAN
Where… are we?
DOCTOR
Underground, presumably.
SAYAN
Fascinating… A whole world hidden away from us.
KARA
Doctor, I have a question.
DOCTOR
You're making an excellent replacement for Zach, go ahead!
KARA
We worked out a way in, but… how do we get out? How can we return to the surface?
DOCTOR
…ah. Hadn't thought that far ahead.
Kara's jaw drops.
DOCTOR
Ah well, I'm sure something will work out eventually. You know what they say – Onwards and… downwards.
The Doctor leads the charge, with Sayan and Kara sharing an uneasy glance before following her.
KARA
I don't see your friend.
DOCTOR
That's a good sign. There was an air cushion at the bottom of the tunnel. That's why the cave wasn't flooded. To break our fall. Someone wanted Zach alive. Although…
She jumps on each foot, feeling the splash of the thin water layer on the ground.
DOCTOR
Obviously not perfect, allowing some to filter through. Whoever's doing this, they don't have total power. That's another good thing.
SAYAN
Zach has had ages ahead of us. Who knows how far away he could be?
DOCTOR
Well, it's possible that he was unconscious for a bit of it. I've studied your biology, and from personal experience, I know we've adapted to have a stronger tolerance than humans. Even though, for you that's impossible. But you're right, he'll be quite a bit ahead.
KARA
Let us pray that he hasn't reached the mastermind yet.
SAYAN
Like praying ever helps.
KARA
Listen, Sayan-
SAYAN
No, you listen. Us being down here is to prove that your prayers and worship are false!
KARA
No, it's to save our friends. If Zach is alive, then maybe the others are too. Keep that in your head rather than showing off about how right you were.
SAYAN
Showing off? Why, you little-
DOCTOR
Guys, please! We've got work to do. You guys came along for a reason, whether that was to learn the truth, save your friends, prove yourself capable, whatever. Don't make me regret my decision by bringing you along. Now, do either of you know anything about this place? Any of the stories mention this?
KARA
No. The gods come from above, not below- I know you say the gods told you nothing about The Great Beyond before your journey here, but surely you should know this?
SAYAN
She's not from the Great Beyond. Neither of them are.
KARA
Enough of this, Sayan.
DOCTOR
He's right. We're not from your planet, we're from a different one. We're travellers, not messengers.
KARA
What? So all this… it's been… one big ruse?
DOCTOR
You were dying, it was the only way to save you.
KARA
Stay away from me!
Kara staggers back, in a half-run.
SAYAN
Kara, you can't leave! We have to stay together!
DOCTOR
Kara!
The Doctor and Sayan race after Kara. [Track 17 ends]
31 INT. CORE – DAY
[Track 18: Detained 0:00 – 4:10] Kara climbs through a small hole into an opening. In the centre of the opening is a small metal platform, very manufactured and on the opposite wall to Kara is a glass chamber, showing lots of holographic, opaque images of different people, and a wall panel with lots of different buttons beside it, all pulsating.
KARA
Aah!
The Doctor and Sayan follow her inside, and see the chamber.
SAYAN
Impossible.
DOCTOR
Are they your people?
SAYAN
Nala!
Sayan sprints towards the chamber, seeing a woman around his age with silky hair, but she is soon replaced by-
DOCTOR
Zach!
SAYAN
They're here! They're all here!
KARA
Can we get them out? Are they alive?
DOCTOR
I don't know. I think so, it's probably like a stasis chamber. A sort of living death.
KARA
What?
DOCTOR
Okay, bad description. How did someone make this?
She scans the chamber with the sonic, then reads it.
DOCTOR
I can't shut down the system, they're part of it. It's like they've been uploaded to a computer, this is a slideshow of their minds.
SAYAN
Computer?
DOCTOR
The question asking is starting to get a little distracting now. Ugh, so many things to piece together, too much input!
The Doctor stares at the buttons, hesitant to press one.
DOCTOR
What does this button do?
She taps it, and the chamber fixes on one man. Kara's eyes widen.
DOCTOR
Do you know who that is?
KARA
It's… it's the old chief. Rusan's predecessor.
SAYAN
So it is our people. The ones who have all died.
KARA
Can they really have been down here all this time?
The Doctor presses all the buttons until she finds Zach.
DOCTOR
There we are. Safe for now. I hope. Can we get him out?
The Doctor holds down Zach's button, and he begins to squirm. He sees the Doctor on the other side, and tries to bang on the chamber glass.
ZACH
Doc… Doctor!
DOCTOR
Zach!
ZACH
Get me out of here! Get me out!
DOCTOR
Working on it!
ZACH
I didn't see anything, it was so bright, but there was this horrible voice! She trapped me in here, my mind… full of so much!
She crouches down and begins to fiddle with the controls.
DOCTOR
It's okay, I'm here. Ugh, I don't get these systems! Hello? Mysterious space god? Could you help me out here? Little clue?
Silence.
DOCTOR
Come on! Time for the walk of fame, celebratory speech, whatever! We've come all this way, we beg an audience with the organ grinder! Time to meet these gods we've heard so much about!
The ground rumbles, and from the metal platform erupts a burst of golden energy. After materializing from nothing, a silent being with eyes like glass stands in front of them. She stares at the group intently, a sensation similar to butterflies takes a hold over Kara, unease in Sayan and the Doctor, and fear in Zach's.
DOCTOR
Hi. I'm the Doctor, this is Zach. Are you God?
KARA
My Lord, I am your humble servant. I revere myself before you.
Kara drops to her knees.
DOCTOR
Kara, keep back. This might act like your god, but I'm sure it's far worse than that. Do you have a name? Allah, Apollo? …Hades?
MEGAERA
You mock me?
DOCTOR
Oh, I would never do that, your worship. What's your name?
MEGAERA
Erinyes.
DOCTOR
No…
Megaera chuckles.
SAYAN
What are you?
DOCTOR
Creatures only concerned with inflicting malice on others. In the Dark Times, there were three of them. Tisiphone, Megaera, and Alecto. They tortured "lower beings" for their own amusement. They were around on Earth for a while, created the myth of the Furies in Ancient Greece, but in your mythology, they were only punishing those who deserved it, acting like "benevolent" gods.
SAYAN
You kept the people you tortured… locked away here, like trophies.
DOCTOR
My people, the Time Lords, they fought the Erinyes and exiled them to death.
MEGAERA
My sisters perished, alone and afraid, but I was not.
DOCTOR
Let me guess, you used your power to sustain the bubble. Keep yourself alive. But if the Time Lords saw you doing this, why didn't they stop you?
SAYAN
And where do we come into this?
The Doctor stops, realising.
DOCTOR
Oh. Oh…
ZACH
What, what is it?
DOCTOR
You. All these people you've got locked up. They're not trophies, they're bargaining chips.
MEGAERA
Such speed, such intelligence. You really are a Time Lord, I can see it.
DOCTOR
All of you, you're just pawns in her games. Hostages. You've been programmed by Megaera into following her unquestionably, but you've got some semblance of free will. Free will that grew when we arrived. That's why you started to question the stories, Sayan. That's why you stood up for yourself, Kara. You might have been made by Megaera, but you're real. The Time Lords can't manually destroy this dimension without committing genocide.
MEGAERA
Such a genius concept, free will. I was able to torture them in ways they couldn't believe!
SAYAN
You hurt us for nothing!
MEGAERA
And it was delicious.
DOCTOR
Of course they sent me to make the decision for them. Or… save them. If I take away your toys, then the Time Lords can stop you. You can't escape.
MEGAERA
Ugh, so close. I really thought you had it there. You're endangering this universe because you don't belong in it. And if you take my subjects away to your Universe, then they'll endanger it. There is no way out of this. You think a mortal weakling can do what an entire army of gods couldn't? I am in control here. Observe! Kara, step towards me.
KARA
…No!
MEGAERA
I said step towards me!
Megaera raises her arm and pulls Kara toward her like a magnet. Upon impact, Kara's arm begins to burn, as does the rest of her skin, before her entire body turns to ash.
DOCTOR
Kara!
MEGAERA
So tasty. Another addition to my little collection.
Zach disappears, and is replaced by Kara. [Track 18 ends]
DOCTOR
Let her go. Let them all go!
MEGAERA
It'll be nice to show my enemy that I've got their little pet.
DOCTOR
Don't you dare!
[Track 19: Walk in Eternity 0:00 – 1:30] The Doctor spins around, dashing back to the controls, but once again, Megaera shoots her arm out, now pointing towards the Doctor, holding her in place. She cackles.
MEGAERA
Too easy, too easy! I haven't had this much fun in YEARS!
A rock breaks apart against Megaera's face, enraging her. She drops the Doctor and looks in the direction in which it was thrown – It's Sayan, with many more rocks.
SAYAN
You tormented me for my entire life! Made me think I was something I'm not! Now I'm not going to back down from a fight!
Sayan lunges at Megaera. She grabs him, as he yells out in anguish from the burning, much like Kara, but he overcomes it, a rage-fuelled spark in his eyes, like fire.
SAYAN
If I'm from you, then I bear your powers… somewhere within. I just… have to… UNLOCK IT!
She shrieks, as a continual resounding pulse echoes out across the room and down the cave, bright lights beaming around the two competitors. The Doctor dives for the pod, studying it.
DOCTOR
I don't know what to do!
Sayan moves one hand, aiming at the pod and firing a blast. It reforms into a cloud of gases, and the Doctor reaches in, pulling everyone out one by one – starting off with Kara, then Zach, then countless other villagers.
DOCTOR
Come on, all of you, out of here!
They see the battle ensuing behind the Doctor.
DOCTOR
Kara, get a shift on! Back to the surface, find an exit!
KARA
…Through the mountain!
DOCTOR
Good girl, off you go!
The villagers all flee, making their way back through the caves, until it leaves only Sayan, the Doctor, Zach and Megaera in the chamber. The lights die down, and Sayan is thrown back against the wall. Feebly, he gets back up, panting.
SAYAN
This… is over.
MEGAERA
No… you are MY subject! Bow down to me!
DOCTOR
Starting to question free will now, are we? You can't hurt them anymore.
MEGAERA
No. NO!
Sayan fires one last blast, as does Megaera, culminating into an unstable stream of energy filling the room.
SAYAN
You stole my friends… my loves… my life! You took everything away from me! And now I'm taking it all back! I don't answer to your rules anymore!
He screams, the beam intensifying, and smashing into Megaera as she disperses into burning snowflakes across the chamber, exploding into a bright light. [Track 19 ends]
FADE TO WHITE:
32 EXT. CENTRE – EVENING
[Track 20: Lazy Boy] The Sun is setting, and the villagers huddle together, staring out to the purple evening sky.
KELLEN
What do we do if they don't return?
RUSAN
We learn how to use their machines. We've survived without them before, we can continue to do so in the future.
DOCTOR
Yes, you can!
They all turn around, and marvel at the Doctor and Zach leading the prisoners back to the village, grins on their faces. People sprint to reunite with each other, tears form and laughter grows.
RUSAN
Doctor, what- what?
CORA
Doctor!
Cora sprints to the Doctor, embracing her warmly – she's obviously a lot healthier and enthusiastic.
DOCTOR
Hey, Cora! Look at you, fighting fit! Told you you'd be up in no time!
ZACH
I don't remember that. In fact, you were rather rubbish with your bedside manner.
DOCTOR
Alright, I was busy. How are you feeling now?
CORA
Better. Much better.
DOCTOR
Brilliant. Go and join your friends, I'm sure you've got quite a bit of catching up to do!
CORA
Thanks for your help, Doctor!
She skips off excitedly, then the Doctor and Zach return to Rusan.
RUSAN
What happened? Where did… all these people come from?
DOCTOR
They never died. You only thought they did because a demon in your mind tricked you. That's who you've been worshipping this entire time. I'm sure Sayan and Kara will explain everything, but for now your problems are over. You'll have new ones in the future, but you've got your people back.
ZACH
Quite a lot of people. You'll probably need to expand.
RUSAN
You can say that again. It seems like quite a lot will be changing around here. These people, they… we will be searching for a new direction.
DOCTOR
Rely on each other, use each other's knowledge to work your way forward. Community – best thing there is.
RUSAN
It's possible that we could use a new leader. I can't say I've been the best. Tonight, looking after that girl, I was completely helpless. But you… you knew what to do. I don't suppose I could tempt you with the offer?
DOCTOR
Sorry, we're out of time. We should've been more honest. We're not exactly from the Great Beyond. In fact, the Great Beyond was just another lie by your gods to make you think that all that torture was worth something. In truth, Zach and I aren't from your Universe. We're travellers and we don't belong here, see?
Zach gawps at the Doctor's hand, which is fizzing immensely.
DOCTOR
We've got to move on, so we don't destabilise both Universes.
RUSAN
I don't understand your wording, but I think I grasp the premise. It is time for you to leave us.
ZACH
Yeah. Sorry we couldn't do more.
RUSAN
Please, you've already done plenty. Look around you – Peace has been restored to the village.
ZACH
Make sure it stays like that.
RUSAN
I'll try my best.
ZACH
That's all anyone can do. See ya, Rusan.
DOCTOR
Bye.
The Doctor and Zach hurriedly leave the celebrations to the villagers, heading towards the jungle one final time.
33 EXT. BEACH – NIGHT
They approach the TARDIS.
ZACH
Is the TARDIS fixed now?
DOCTOR
Ah. Well, funny story…
ZACH
What?
DOCTOR
Just think about the good we did here. Protecting this village from danger, stopping a malevolent force from torturing them, saving the Universe.
ZACH
Wait a second… Oh, my god.
DOCTOR
Yep.
ZACH
Protecting the village. You got the parts from the TARDIS. We didn't need to stay here at all. The TARDIS has been repaired for ages, that's why you wouldn't let me inside.
DOCTOR
Sorry.
He groans.
DOCTOR
Look on the bright side. If we had left, Megaera would still be trying to break back into our Universe. Now, the Time Lords can make sure that this bubble universe does what it's meant to.
She has a solemn look on her face at this point.
ZACH
Wait, but that… that means they're going to die in a matter of hours. The settlement.
DOCTOR
Yes. Possibly, yes. Or, the bubble will stay open naturally, and they'll thrive. I don't know what will happen, this is a new experience for me, too. Maybe they'll use their own new found powers to evolve further.
She walks on, but Zach calls for her to stop.
ZACH
Doctor, wait! You were talking earlier about honesty, and… I need to tell you something. I know you know that I've not had the greatest of lives, but… Ever since last year, with my brother, I've… I've not felt great. Worse than usual. Every day's a struggle. Even just getting out of bed some days. And, I can't stand by and abandon them. You told me the same thing on this very beach yesterday.
DOCTOR
I know.
ZACH
Haven't you ever lost anyone?
The Doctor thinks back.
DOCTOR
Yes. But here's the thing.
She raises her hand, even more unstable than before.
DOCTOR
We shouldn't be here. If we stay for much longer, we'll destabilise the fabric of the Universe and everything we've worked for will be lost. Small victories, even just making sure that they're around for one more day, that's worth it. We've left them the technology, we've given them the freedom to explore their own self, we're ensuring that the Universe remains stable, small victories like that are what keeps us going. You want to save them. And this is how we can.
Zach smiles a little.
DOCTOR
Besides, you saw what Sayan did down there. They're much stronger than you give them credit for. And if you ever need someone to talk to about the troubles you're feeling, I'll be right here.
ZACH
Thanks.
She opens the TARDIS doors, and the pair walk inside, as it disappears once again. [Track 20 ends]
ROLL CREDITS
NEXT EPISODE: 1989