Wanderer of Time: Darkness Within

by Tinker16

The powers within have been steadily growing, buying time until the moment of remembrance. The moment swiftly approaches. Wanda's fears are coming to a head as she realizes what has been living inside her has only one purpose in the universe. And it holds no qualms in destroying any who gets in its way, even those who Wanda loves. (Part Three of the Wanderer of Time trilogy)

67. Ch 67: The Closing Chapters

Hello again, everyone.

I hope things have been going well. Here's to a new chapter to get the week started for you all. :)

XxXxXxXx

Chapter 67: The Closing Chapters

Wanda did not go right away to places she knew where she was needed. In the end, for once in her life, she wanted to be selfish. She wanted to keep seeing moments with her Theta. Moments when he was happy. Moments when the companions were happy with him. Moments where she could be with her Theta and companions, just at peace in where the universe was. But, of course, the universe had other plans for her. She should have realized this was the reason why she kept running into Ten during times in between the departure of Donna and his regeneration. It was the universe's way of showing her where she was needed to go before . . . before the end of her story.

She noticed how every time she showed up with Ten . . . something was bothering him greatly. She knew certain moments it would have been the fresh departure of Donna from their family. Then later moments it would have been . . . after Mars. But it was more than that. Something was driving the Doctor mad. He would never tell Wanda what exactly it was. But she could see it in his eyes. The way he stared at her. As though he was struggling internally, a massive weight on his shoulders. As though he were watching a dead person walking and there was nothing he could do about it. She wanted to tell herself it was because he knew that his time as the Tenth Doctor was ending. But she knew what it was. Deep down, she knew. Because . . . somehow, even though she promised herself she would never tell until later Doctors, it seemed that he knew that her story was ending. And the more she slowly realized that he knew, the more she saw just how . . . angry he was becoming. He never showed it around her. But there was a storm brewing within those old brown eyes of his. A storm ready to unleash.

She tried to ignore it. Tried to pretend it was all just her imagination. It helped because, with later Eleven, she had talked about it with him. Talked about her ending story. Though she remembered how much he tried to deny it during his earlier days, after seeing Trenzalore at his grave it seemed to finally sink in for him. He began to be more at peace with the idea. Mostly because he seemed to keep a strong hold on the idea of both of them dying on Trenzalore. Even when she tried to explain how it was not the end of his story. In how that version of Trenzalore he saw was another timeline. But he would never hear it from her. Merely, he would always end in kissing her, dragging her off for another adventure, and acting as though they were going to live out the rest of their days happy until that moment for them arrived. She gave up after that in trying to assure him of his life. If it made him happy in thinking he was going to die alongside her . . . she did not wish to break his hearts in reminding him of the truth. And she should have realized that Ten was not in the same peaceful mindset as Eleven was.

Her wakeup call that the Doctor was heading into dangerous waters came when she arrived at a snowy street. Where the street was located, she had no chance to inspect, for the hushed tones of voices captured her attention first. She had appeared right on the other side of a line of buildings. And from the sounds of it, the voices were coming from the front of the houses. Stepping to the side, she stared at the back of Ten, who faced an older woman staring back at him in outrage, in pure and utter disbelief. As though this woman had seen something quite horrible of the man who stood in front of her. It took Wanda a moment to recognize the woman. It was Adelaide Brooke, Captain of Bowie Base One. The very first international human colony established on Mars to begin the frontier into space. The very same colony that was a point in time, meant to be fixed in the colonists' deaths to inspire future space travellers from Earth. One such traveller including Adelaide's granddaughter. But, of course, things had been . . . altered.

"You should have left us there," Wanda heard the distant voice of Adelaide coming from down the street. The Wanderer knew what Adelaide was angry about. The fact that the Doctor had . . . he had . . . changed a fixed point in time. A point in time that was meant for the future of Earth. Without it . . . the consequences could be disastrous. Of course, the Doctor knew that. But Wanda remembered, by this point, he just did not care anymore. And that thought . . . scared Wanda down to the bone. This moment in time for the Time Lord always had frightened her. In the timeline she had seen before, it had been because he had lost his way. Lost his way because of being alone for so long. But she had been with him only a few days ago. What had changed for the Doctor to have strayed so far from the man he was? From being a Doctor? What had changed?

"Adelaide, I've done this sort of thing before," the Doctor replied smoothly to the woman, not at all bothered by what he had just done to history. "In small ways, saved some little people. But never someone as important as you. Oh, I'm good!" Wanda winced, feeling a sting in her hearts. Little people? Adelaide seemed to feel the same as Wanda did about that statement. But more angered by it than hurt.

"'Little people'?" Adelaide retorted angrily. "What, like Mia and Yuri? Who decides they're so unimportant? You?"

"For a long time now, I thought I was just a survivor, but I'm not. I'm the winner. That's who I am. The Time Lord Victorious," the Doctor stated, a voice of full authority. Though, his words were unrecognizable to Wanda. They were . . . unhinged coming from her Theta's mouth.

Adelaide stared at him, looking greatly unnerved now. "And there's no one to stop you?"

"One person, yeah. But once she sees why I'm doing this . . ." Wanda watched as the Doctor's ridged body shook a bit. "I'm doing this for her. She has to see it. She has to understand. I will save her. I'll stop it no matter what it takes."

"So, you're doing this all for one person? Destroying history, deciding who's important and unimportant, calming yourself 'victorious' because of one person? Well, I hope this one person does stop you because Time Lord Victorious is wrong."

"That's for me to decide." Wanda shivered at how cold the Doctor's words were. Just how . . . sinister the implications of all what he had said so far. She ducked back around the corner of the house, pressing her back up against the cold, brick wall as she heard the Doctor unlock Adelaide's house with his sonic. Wanda closed her eyes, feeling her hearts beats pick up as she heard Adelaide's footsteps crunch through the snow, going to her house.

Once the door had shut and locked, it was then that the Wanderer slowly stepped out from behind the building. She saw how the Doctor was taken back by seeing her there. But then he gave her his usual grin, happy to see her there once more. But the happy face felt different this time. It was . . . unsettling.

"Wanda! Good to see you again," the Doctor cheered as she walked over to him. He grinned from ear to ear once she stood in front of him. "Ready for the next adventure? I got a load of things planned for us. Big things." His voice dropped from cheer somewhat when he said these last words. And from what she had heard only moments ago, she knew exactly what sort of 'big things' he had in mind.

"Doctor . . . what have you done?" Wanda whispered, shaking her head slowly as she gazed at him with eyes of utter horror.

"I'm saving you," the Doctor said gruffly, stepping towards her as his eyes grew dark. "You know about it. I know you do. You always know. You know about your coming death."

"Yes," Wanda breathed, holding her ground as the Time Lord loomed over her. "Yes, I know. But it's not something we can change. It's a fixed point in—."

"Don't say it!" screamed the Doctor.

Wanda flinched, stepping back from him. "Doctor?"

The Doctor took a step to her once more. "I've lost so many people. So many. But no more. I am tired of losing. I will not lose another important person in my life. Never again."

"We all have to die someday," Wanda breathed, trying to have him see reason.

"NO!" He grabbed her arms in a vice grip. He even shook her a bit. "Don't you see? Time obeys me now. I tell time what to do. Me! The universe will do as I say for once!" He jerked her, looking manic now as he smiled at her. "Don't you see? I can save you! Me! I changed this fixed point in time, I can change them all! That includes you. Because I am never letting you go. Never!"

"Doctor . . . you're hurting me." Wanda cried, trying to pull back from him.

"You're not leaving me!"

His smile disappeared the instant they heard the firing of a gun from Adelaide's house. He blinked, seeming to snap out of it as he very gradually let go of Wanda's arms. Taking a shaking step back from her, gazing at her fearful eyes that stared back at him, he could only shake his head. He backed into the TARDIS, letting out a quivering breath.

"What has she done?" he breathed in a hitched breath. "I saved her. Why? Why would she do that? I saved her! I changed time for her! Why?!" He covered his face with his hands, pressing them hard into his eyes as he slowly slid to the ground. He broke down as he felt wave after wave of disgust and horror at what he had done. At what he had said. At what he knew Adelaide had just done inside her home just down the street from him and Wanda. Then, sorrow swept through him in knowing that this was a sign from the universe. A sign telling him he had no control over what was to come for his Wanderer. For his love. He could not save her. Just as he could never save anyone who meant so much to him. He was just . . . so useless.

He stiffened as a kind hand touch him. Such a soft and gentle hand. He looked up, staring at the caring emerald eyes of the woman he loved. Even after all he had said and done . . . even after he had frightened her so badly . . . she was still always too good to him.

"I've gone too far . . . Haven't I?" he asked her weakly. She crouched down in front of him. Eyes that met his held such sadness. He knew his answer by this eyes. "I'm so sorry. I—I didn't mean . . ." He knew his apology would never be enough. There was nothing he could do now. There would be consequences of his actions today. That prophecy he had been given a while ago about the four knocks itched at the back of his mind. But at the moment, he could care less about his regeneration. All he cared about now was knowing that once he regenerated . . . it would be all that much closer to his Wanderer's death.

"I know you didn't," Wanda spoke quietly, taking his hand into hers and thumbing it tenderly. "But I'm sorry, Doctor, you've lost your way. You should have never done that. Now, your fate is set."

"I don't care about that," he said, shaking his head slowly. "I just don't want you to die. Why can't the universe take me instead? I would give anything for that. Just as long as you can live, that's all I want. Why can't the universe ever grant me that? Why can't you live for our daughter in our future? What will me and Ember do without you?"

Wanda's eyes grew even sadder still. Unable to answer that no matter how much her hearts wept. She thumbed away the tears from his face carefully, thinking on what to say. "You can never change a fixed point in time, even if you want to. Even if that fixed time is your own demise. And if it is the only way in the end to save the ones you love, then it is worth it time and time again."

"But why does it have to be you?"

"Doctor," she sighed, shaking her head sadly, "I've been dying since the moment I remembered everything from my past. It unlocked all those barriers that separated me and Alpha. Our body cannot handle two consciousness inside of one mind. Maybe if we were full fledge Time Lords . . . But the powers inside our body has been slowly tearing us apart piece by piece. It's only a matter of time now before our body finally gives out."

The Doctor shook, gripping her hand on his cheek tightly as he stared at her in desperation. "Isn't there anything I can do?"

"I'm sorry." She kissed his head, thumbing his cheek gently. She tried to give him a reassuring smile. "Oh, my Doctor, please, don't be sad. You still have so many more adventures to come with me. So, so many. They will be so fantastic, you'll see."

A few more tears ran down his face. Still, he shook his head. "Please," he pleaded with her.

"Theta . . . in my death, it will ensure the survival of the universe. Are you really willing to give up the universe just for me?"

"Yes." He tried giving her a weak smile as though joking. But they both knew that deep down he was not. He truly meant it.

Wanda let out a soft sigh. "And maybe that's also why my story needs to end. Just look at what you've done today because of me. What will I turn you into if I stay any longer?"

The Doctor could not say anything to that. He did not know how to respond. What would he not do for her? Where would he draw the line? So long ago he had known that answer. Now? He had no idea how far he would go just for her. He felt her kiss him gently against his head before standing up slowly from him.

"I'm ready," Wanda said quietly, seeing Bad Wolf standing just down the street from them behind the TARDIS. The entity nodded slowly.

"I know you are," whispered Bad Wolf.

The Doctor looked up, going to ask Wanda for more answers. Going to beg her to tell him how far she had until the end. To tell him just how much time they would have together so he could know how long he had before coming up with a plan to save her. But when he looked to where she had been, she was gone.

XxXxXxXx

Wanda appeared inside of an office room of some sorts. Smelling the air, she could tell it was Earth, 21st century. At the moment, she did not really care about that. For the moment she arrived inside the room, she felt Alpha immediately go on edge and snarl when seeing the Master slowly getting up from the ground at her feet. The wolf in her growled as well as her hairs bristled on the back of her neck. She watched tensely as the Time Lord rubbed at the back of his head as though it hurt, standing up as armed men wearing all black marched into the room quickly. The moment the Master stood up and faced her, she saw how he froze in place, staring at her with caution.

"Sir?" one of the armed men questioned, seeming just as wary of Wanda's presence. She heard the Master's voice coming from this man. A reminder of what the Master had done earlier. He had turned all humans on Earth into exact copies of himself. How he had done this, she remembered vaguely from watching the show. But at the moment, she could care less about the details. Because just feeling the entire Earth being the Master made it almost impossible to keep Alpha under control inside.

Kill him! Rip him to shreds! BURN THEM ALL! Alpha screamed inside her mind, banging against her barrier, ready to be released so she could go on a rampage of vengeance.

Alpha . . . wait and let me handle this. Wanda told her other half calmly, trying to quell both Alpha and the wolf inside.

"Well? What are you waiting for?!" the Master yelled at his lackies. "Get after the Doctor!" Once all other duplicate Masters were gone, it left only the Time Lord and the Wanderer facing each other.

She gazed him up and down coolly, taking in this form of him. She saw the change in hair colour, matching hers almost perfectly. Something which irritated Alpha to no end. Then, of course, he was wearing rather dirty clothing. Nothing like the sleek suit he had once been in. Then, she noticed the twitching. The way he shifted from foot to foot. As though he were far more on edge with her than she was with him. Or, that could have been the fact that his resurrected body had not been fully brought back to life thanks to the death potion Lucy, his old wife, had thrown into the mix when he tried to revive himself.

"So . . . come to kill me again?" the Master decided to finally say, seeming to take the direct approach of what was on his mind. "I'd prefer if you didn't use a gun this time, thanks."

"No," Wanda said quietly, keeping herself as calm as possible while speaking with him.

He narrowed his eyes, taking an aggressive step towards her. "Tell me what you've told him?"

Wanda blinked, frowning as she felt confused by this. "What?"

"I know you told him! You said it yourself. The Doctor of the future knows. Well? He knows, doesn't he? He just won't admit it. No matter how much I pry, all he talks about is our old friendship. But all he's trying to do is soften me up. I know how he works!" The Master panted, looking unnerved as he stood there shaking.

Wanda could only stare at him, feeling almost sorry for the Time Lord. She had always pitied him in the past. Because of the life choices he had made. Because of all that potential he had wasted through all these years. Then, lastly, because of what Rassilon had done to the Master during his childhood. If he had not been the one to kill her child . . . she most likely would have been willing to help him through all of this, giving both him and the Doctor a second chance at life. But now . . .

"He doesn't know," Wanda answered him steadily. "But he will. In his far future, he'll know. And the day you two cross paths once more, you can be sure there will be hell to pay." The Master stormed up to her, glaring at her fiercely.

"That day will never come as long as I can help it," he hissed at her. It was now his turn to eye her coolly, smirking lightly at her. "So . . . if you're not here to kill me again . . . why are you here?"

She almost told him the real reason for her being here. But she thought better of it. "To help the Doctor."

"Aww, you're going to help your Doctor? How cute?" He rolled his eyes before narrowing them. "Tell me why you're really here, Alpha."

"To stop the end of time and to remind you where you stand in the universe, Koschei."

The Master's eyes flared angrily. "The name is the Master," he gritted through his teeth.

"And my name isn't Alpha. But I doubt you'll ever call me by my chosen name, so why should I call you by yours?" Wanda retorted coldly, narrowing her eyes at him.

Staring at her for a moment, he soon smirked and stepped back from her. "Doesn't matter. Call me whatever you like. Either way . . . you're going to die today. I can't have you ever telling him. But first . . ." He made a click with his fingers, calling other duplicates of himself into the room. "Status on the Doctor."

"The Doctor has escaped using a teleport," said his other self. "We've been unable to trace where he's gone. But we've ensured he cannot return."

"Good," the Master responded, sounding ever so smug. "Then he has no way of knowing his little pet has returned." He and all other Masters in the room smiled darkly at Wanda. "What shall we do with her, hmm?"

"Roast her," one said.

"We're so hungry. She'd be tasty," said another.

"Hmm," the Master hummed thoughtfully. "She could supply me with enough energy to last quite a while." He smirked at her with an amused gleam in his eye.

"Or my energy destroys you forever and ruins all of time as we know it," retorted Wanda. She glared at him in annoyance, feeling her ire with him increasing by the moment. Or rather Alpha's fury was growing by the second. It was getting harder and harder to hold herself back from launching at the Time Lord and just ending him here and now.

"Hmm. Suppose this means you're never useful," mocked the Master with a sneer. He snapped his fingers to his lackies. "Lock her up."

Wanda eyed the men who stepped towards her. Alpha flared up dramatically, breaking through for a moment. "Touch me and I'll rip out your hearts," Alpha growled darkly through her teeth. Wincing, Wanda pulled her back, keeping the reins as best she could on the raging Alpha.

"Ooh, now there's the Alpha I remember," she heard the Master chortle darkly. "I wonder if I push your buttons enough if I can get the real you to come out and play?"

The moment the hands of the other Masters grabbed at her, her hold on Alpha snapped. Alpha opened her eyes and snarled loudly. Her eyes glowed in their sinister white light as she launched herself at the men who dared touch her. She made quick work of them. They barely lasted a second before she moved onto her main target. She was on top of the Master before he knew it. They landed on the ground with her pinning him down, snapping her teeth at his face. He let out a barking laugh before shooting out some sort of electricity from his hands and throwing her off of him. Alpha flipped around in the air before she even hit the ground, throwing herself right back at him as soon as she got her footing. She grabbed ahold of his hand before he could hit her again, spinning him around and slamming him to the ground in a painful hold. Her other hand lifted up high as the one held him down, ready to strike a deadly blow. But the hand on him swiftly let go and held the striking hand back. She stumbled away from him, quaking on the spot as Wanda gained back control.

"No, Alpha, this isn't the way," muttered Wanda. "You know what's supposed to happen. We can't interfere."

"He killed our daughter! He deserves to suffer for what he did! For EVERYTHING he's done!" Alpha managed to scream through Wanda's lips.

"We cannot kill him!" Wanda yelled in return. She panted as she threw the barrier up between herself and Alpha, keeping the wolf at bay. She felt Alpha pouting angrily in the back of her mind, peeved that she could not exact her revenge on the Master.

". . . What the Doctor said was true," she heard the Master breath in disbelief. She looked at him, seeing the look of awe on his face. "You really are separated from Alpha. Two beings in one mind. How are you even alive?"

"How are you alive after all these years with those drums in your head?" Wanda replied easily.

"You know about the drums? You believe me?"

"I've always known. And why would I not believe you?"

Very slowly, the Master grew a bright smirk on his face. "Oh, but that's just brilliant. You're exactly like me. Noise inside your head, urging you onto war and death. No wonder you and I have clashed for so long. We're a match you and I."

Wanda felt revolted. "I am nothing like you."

"Oh? How strong is Alpha in that mind of yours, hmm? She getting louder just like my drums are?" The Master chortled when seeing Wanda's uneased expression.

Soon, Wanda relaxed and looked at him with steady eyes. "You're right. We are alike, you and I. Because both of us were made as weapons for the Time War."

Eyes widening for a second, the Master narrowed his gaze in suspicion. "What do you mean? Tell me. Tell me!" He stood up, storming over to her in rage.

Wanda straightened up, now gazing back at him in pity. Apparently, it was something that revolted him to no end. Mostly because of the idea of someone forcing him to be something he had no control over enraged him more than anything else. Finally, she truly did feel sorry for him. He had been forced into this life just as much as she had. Maybe if he never been used in such a way, created as a signal so Rassilon could break through the Time Lock and keep Gallifrey alive . . . maybe then Ember would have never died. And she saw it in her mind. The possibility that could have been. If Rassilon never implanted that signal that drove the Master into insanity . . . then the Time Lord truly would have been something great alongside the Doctor. Friends until the end. But, sadly, this could never be now.

"You're a weapon, just like me," Wanda spoke softly, voice full of pity for him, something which angered the Time Lord even more. "With no control over your life, no say in how you've lived, and with the only purpose to accomplish what you had been created for. I'm sorry . . . but your whole life has been corrupted by a madman and there was nothing you could ever do about it."

This time, it was him that lost control. He launched himself at her, making them roll on the floor as she tried to keep him off of her. All the while his skin kept becoming translucent in his rage, showing her his skeleton underneath his skin. Before Alpha could do anything to retaliate, Wanda flipped them both over to where she was on top of the enraged Time Lord.

"Koschei, listen to me!" she barked, knowing she needed to get her message across. "Just because you're a weapon, does not mean you cannot fight back against your creators. Fight them! Show them they cannot control your purpose in life! Fight them like I fought my Masters the Daleks!"

"I. Am. Nothing. Like. You!" the Master bellowed in rage, unwilling to listen to her words of warning. He threw her off of him with his electricity and at her once again. Alpha started to gain back control, ready to strike him down. Wanda closed her eyes quickly, concentrating as she knew she had to get out of this situation. She felt herself transport away, laying on her back on cold metal. She kept her eyes closed, trying to catch her breath as she lay there. She felt someone grab her suddenly. Her body reacted in an instant. Instincts of the wolf kicked in for a fight. She yanked at whoever had a hold of her, flipping them over so she was on top of them and held them down while she raised her hand up high for a strike. She froze when seeing Ten's face staring back at her.

"Doctor!" she gasped, hurriedly getting off of him. "I'm so sorry. I—I didn't mean to . . ." She covered her face with her hands, feeling humiliated to have lost herself in front of a younger Doctor. Her body stiffened when she felt the warm embrace from her Theta as he wrapped his arms around her.

"I'm so glad you're here," he breathed in a sigh into her ear. He pulled away, cupping her face tenderly as he smiled. "I was worried I would have to go through all of this alone."

"Never," she promised, smiling in return. They met for a chaste kiss before he pulled her up and led her over to the controls he had been working on. She let him ramble, telling her about all that had happened with the Master and with the Vinvocci who had rescued him. She did not pay much attention, already knowing all of this. But it felt nice just listening to her Theta's voice. Something she knew she would always miss.

"So . . . where have you come from?" he asked her curiously as they both worked on repairing the controls of the ship they sat in. He looked over when he received no answer. He saw the way she stared distantly at the wires in her hands, clearly lost in thought. Was she feeling guilty to have acted instinctively when he had surprised her? He knew it was not her fault. Too much of old habits from the Time War would be there inside her returned memories. He had done the same after the war. He knew he should have known better than to surprise her like that.

"Wanda?" he questioned softly, gently placing his hands over hers. She blinked out of her stupor, looking up to him. "What's wrong?"

"Sorry," she whispered. "I've just . . . come from a confrontation with the Master."

The Doctor stiffened, feeling uneasy by this. "Yeah . . . I've come from a confrontation with him, too." He looked away, fiddling with some wires before he stared back at her, dropping what he was doing to face her fully. "You knew. All this time after killing him, you knew he was going to come back. So why kill him in the first place?"

"Because if I hadn't he would have done a lot more damage to the universe using the TARDIS." Wanda looked at her Theta sadly in guilt. "I'm sorry I couldn't have told you. But I had no choice. The consequences of you taking him back to the TARDIS would have been disastrous. It had to be done."

"So, you had to shoot him?"

"No, not me." Wanda swallowed heavily twisting her fingers together as guilt weighed her down. "My original plan was to give the gun to Lucy. She was the one I saw who would shoot him. She deserved to, really, after the hell he had put her through. But when I pulled out that gun that day . . . I was just so angry that I . . ." She let out a soft sigh, staring down at her hands. "I was hoping I could get my hatred for him off my chest before . . . But my way of trying to forgive him sort of backfired on me. I lost my hold on Alpha. Her hatred for him outweighs the hatred against Rassilon, I think."

The Doctor scooted over to her, wrapping a comforting arm around her. He let them sit in a peaceful silence as they gazed out the observation window from the ship down to Earth below. The sun was setting for the planet, casting a shadow across the world. But not a shadow that fell over them. They felt light still within their bond. A bond that kept them at warm and safe with each other against the cold universe. She leaned her head against his shoulder, taking in every moment she could with him.

"I'm very proud of you for trying to forgive him," the Doctor finally said softly. "Don't feel guilty for not being able to, either. It's okay to not feel forgiveness for someone. Sometimes it's an impossible thing to do."

"You forgave him," Wanda replied quietly. "After everything he's done to you, you've forgiven him time and time again. Suppose that means you're a much better person than me."

"No," breathed the Doctor. "It just means I'm a fool. Trapped and unable to see past the memories I've shared with an old childhood friend." He went quiet for a moment, rubbing circles on her arm. "I wonder though . . . if I ever find out what he did to you . . . will I still be able to forgive him even then? Truthfully, even though I don't know the details, just thinking about him hurting you . . ." His voice went dark for a moment as he said this. Then, he went right back to thoughtful Doctor. "I tried getting him to tell me, you know. But he wouldn't budge. Something tells me he really doesn't want me to know." He glanced at Wanda, trying to see if he could get a reaction out of her. Some sort of sign as to what the Master might have done to her. Or possibly that she might tell him the truth. But still, she held a distant yet peaceful expression on her face. Still keeping her silence on the matter.

"Still," he sucked in a breath before letting it out, "I gotta find out a way to stop him. I'll figure out what to do with him afterwards." Wanda was in front of him suddenly, taking him by surprise. She held his face in her hands, looking into his eyes so desperately as though everything depended on him to understand something important.

"Theta, please, listen to me," she breathed, barely above a whisper. "When you take that gun, and you will take it, shoot where your hearts tell you to. And when he finally knocks four times . . . please, please don't angry at him. It was never his fault. The universe chose him and there was nothing he could have done to stop it from happening. So please, don't let the last moments you have with him be that of anger." She kissed him hard before he had a chance to say anything more. And then, in an instant, she was gone.

XxXxXxXx

She appeared in the TARDIS. The old grunge look there making her know instantly where she was. She looked over, seeing Rose by the console, unconscious in a peaceful rest. The TARDIS time rotor was in motion, showing the ship was in flight. And at the controls was Nine, gripping the edge of the console and appearing grim. She had meant to come to him first. But . . . she had wanted to get the hatred for the Master off her chest before anything else. Get the unpleasantries out of the way really. She did not want to die with hatred in her heart. But coming to Nine now after that . . . maybe it was good that she was going a bit out of order. He looked up suddenly, eyes going wide in surprise when seeing her standing there. She smiled warmly, feeling her hearts swell at the sight of him. The first Doctor she had fallen in love with.

"Hello," she greeted quietly.

"Hello," he greeted in return. He drummed his fingers on the console, seeming to think on what to say. Though no matter what he would say, he felt it would be rather awkward. "I'm going to regenerate soon. You know that, right?"

"Of course," Wanda nodded, appearing sad and guilty about this. "That's why I'm here. Don't have much time before . . . So, I just wanted to pop in for a goodbye. So . . . goodbye." She gave him her usual playful, crooked smile.

He let out a laugh, shaking his head. "Goodbye, then. But really, it isn't 'goodbye' when you can go back and see me any old time." He missed the sad expression she had as he looked at the scanner on the console. Soon, he let out a sigh. "Suppose I messed up again. First Wanda and I left off with me yelling in her face. That's me now. Always angry." He looked her to with such a sad expression. "I don't want to be angry anymore. I just . . . Suppose the next man I become will be better. You deserve better. Better than whatever I could be for you."

"Now, don't say that," Wanda said with a shake of her head, going up to him. She gently placed her over his. "You are perfect just the way you are. Don't ever think otherwise."

"Yeah, well . . . won't be me for much longer." The Doctor shrugged, looking away towards the scanner again. "But that's fine with me. I had a fantastic time . . . even if I was a prat most of the time." He tried giving her a light smile of humour, but it looked more like a grimace.

"Well, I was, too." Wanda smiled, trying to make him feel more at ease with how their relationship had been. She did not wish for him to regenerate thinking he had been horrible to her in any way. Yes, they had gotten into rows here and there, but it did not mean that she had loved him any less.

"No . . . You're perfect. You always are." The Doctor gave her a genuine smile before looking to Rose on the floor. "She most likely won't remember any of what happened. Just like I probably won't remember much of what we're talking about now. You know how regeneration goes. Memories get scattered here and there . . . It's always a bit dodgy, this process."

Wanda nodded, feeling guilty for Nine having to regenerate so soon in his life. There could have been centuries more for him. And he was getting so much better in healing after the Time War. But now . . . "I'm sorry. If I could have—."

"Don't." He looked to her, turning to face her probably now. "What's done is done. No changing the past for us. And don't think I regret it. Not ever." Both of them looked at the peacefully sleeping Rose, feeling warm affection for their companion. "I would have rather it been me to die today. I don't want you to ever have to die because of something I could have prevented."

Wanda walked over to him, giving him a strong hug. She rested her head on the crook of his neck, enjoying the feel of him. Something she realized she had always taken for granted over the years. She should have . . . Nah, there needed to be no regrets on her end, either. Things happened as they were meant to. And she would never regret any moment she had with her Theta.

"I will always love you for what you did for her. Remember that," she whispered softly into his ear. She felt him tense under her hold, looking at her in wonder. There was a part of him that seemed afraid of the way she said these words. She remembered the time she had let it slip in telling him 'I love you' during a past adventure with him. It had seemed to terrify him of the aspects of someone falling for him, and he in return, in his future. Now, however, it almost looked as though he felt more willing to see where this new adventure between them might lead him. Though, still rather hesitant as she knew it would take him time to be okay with any sort of deeper relationship between them.

"Wanda . . . can you tell me what you, First Wanda, meant about Rose?" the Doctor decided to ask her instead of voicing more about the whole 'love' thing between them. "What you meant by Rose and Gallifrey? What connection do they have with each other because of Rose being Bad Wolf?"

Wanda gave him a sympathetic smile. If only she could tell him now to save him so much heartache for later. "Spoilers. But I promise, you'll know. One day, it'll all become clear, and it will be the happiest day for you. I promise with all my hearts."

He seemed highly sceptical of this promise. But he nodded all the same, taking her word for it. He looked sad once more, taking a small step back from her when he saw the golden glow in his hand. "It's almost time now." His eyes searched hers for a moment, seeming conflicted on what to say next. There was something on his mind, but . . . "Wanda, before I go, I just want to know . . . Will you miss me?"

"What sort of question is that?" Wanda laughed lightly, feeling confused on why the Doctor would ever ask her that. Then again, Nine was always second guessing their friendship. "We'll see each other again."

"No, that's not what I meant." He shook his head, staring intently into her eyes to convey his meaning. "Will you miss me? Because I know how horrible I was to you . . . so I understand if you—." He froze when she suddenly kissed him. She held his face so tenderly in her hands, thumbing his cheeks as she pressed her warm lips to his. He did not even have time to register how it felt when she pulled away, beaming so brightly at him.

"I will always miss and love you, my Fantastic Doctor. And I will never forget our times together. For they really were . . . fantastic." She felt her hearts beat in elation when seeing his warm smile, seeming at peace in knowing how much she really did like him and how much she would miss him as the Ninth Doctor.

And she was gone before he had a chance to reply or even kiss her like he wished to in return.

XxXxXxXx

Wanda arrived at a peaceful park. It was a sunny day. Children were playing with their laughter carrying all around. She smiled as she looked at them, knowing that they were celebrating the Earth's return home in the solar system. The day had been saved from the Daleks, and everyone on the planet breathed a sigh of relief. Just glad to be alive and safe.

The TARDIS will be arriving soon. She heard Bad Wolf say in her mind. You'll only have about eight minutes, so . . . make it count.

Thank you. Wanda sighed, feeling even more appreciative to Bad Wolf and the TARDIS than ever before with them helping her in this farewell journey of hers.

It was the least we could do for you. Bad Wolf said softly.

Wanda stared forward, looking to the spot where the TARDIS slowly materialized. The wind swept by her from the ship's arrival and the familiar sound of the universe filled her with hope. Oh, how she would miss that sound. As the door to the old girl opened, she placed on a smile, seeing Ten step out first and stare at her in shock. Soon, the others followed in behind him. Jack, Rose, Martha, Donna, Sarah Jane, Mickey, Jackie, and even the Meta-Crisis Doctor all came out to meet her.

"Wanda?" the Doctor called first, looking back at the TARDIS as though wary of Second Wanda suddenly coming out and meeting her future self. Not something that should happen today. The walls between the universe were still weak. Add in a big paradox like that and things could get rather explosive. "What are you doing here? Second Wanda said you called the TARDIS, how did you do that? You shouldn't even be here." He stopped just in front of her with all the companions standing behind him. Suddenly, his expression turned from confusion to concern as he looked her up and down. "What's wrong?"

She knew he could probably tell how sad she was at the moment. She did not mean to appear sad in any way. It was just, seeing all the companions here together . . . it made her rather emotional. Especially since these were all companions who she had not seen for decades now. She felt her hearts tear apart at the sight of them all. She remembered how happy she had been on this day. How happy they all had been. It was one of her fondest memories.

"Nothing," she said quietly. "I just . . . This had always been one of my favourite days. A day we were all together and happy. So, I thought it was a perfect day for a farewell. A nice point for goodbyes."

"'Goodbye'?" he wondered aloud. "What do you mean 'goodbye'?"

"Don't let other me know anything about this, though," she went on, acting as though he did not say anything. "It'd be bad spoilers for her. So, just pretend I was never here, okay?"

"What do you mean 'goodbye'?" he demanded, stepping towards her with a more serious tone and expression. Wanda's smile wavered somewhat.

"You know . . . just something a friend told me to do once. Pick a nice day for goodbyes and such," she replied, shrugging as though nothing were wrong. Before the Doctor could say anything more, Donna walked by and punched him in the arm.

"Oh, lay off her, Spaceman. If she wants a day of goodbyes, let her have it," Donna scolded him. She then smiled ever so kindly at Wanda, going up to give her the warmest hug. She knew what the blonde was talking about. The very thing Second Wanda and the companion had discussed not too long ago. "Goodbye then, sweetheart."

"Goodbye, Donna, the most important woman ever," Wanda giggled, smiling away as she skipped over to Jack next. "Goodbye, my Smexy!"

"See you around, my Tinkerbell," he responded with a wink, giving her an equally strong hug. When they pulled back, she saw the solemn expression crossing his face. She knew he realized what this day might be for her. But she did not confirm his thoughts. Instead, she moved onto Sarah Jane and Martha next, giving them strong hugs as well. Then Jackie and Mickey, hugging them together. Each companion giving brief saying of goodbyes in their own way. They all seemed confused as to why she was there and why she was saying 'goodbye' but they went along with it either way. She then moved onto Rose, seeing how the girl stared at her, looking as though she were seeing a ghost from so long ago in her life. Wanda gave her the best smile she could muster.

"Hey, girlie. Feels like it's been forever now," said Wanda.

"Yeah, it really has," Rose agreed. They both held soft smiles as they met for a tender hug. Rose gave her a lingering kiss on the cheek before they parted from the hug. The companion let her hands linger on Wanda's as the blonde moved away from the other, going over to the Meta-Crisis Doctor next. Wanda smiled, giving him a quick hug.

"Goodbye, you. I wish you the best new life," she said, smiling away in joy for him. There was so much he would experience in the new world and life with Rose. Truly, she hoped every moment with Rose was just perfect. He gave her an awkward smile in return.

"Umm, yeah. You, too," he replied, seeming even more confused by her than even the other companions. She did not blame him for feeling awkward or uncertain by her appearance. He had no idea who she was, after all. She stepped back, looking at all the companions fully now.

"I know you've all heard this a thousand times from me before, but . . .," she began to say. She sucked in a breath, smiling wavering just a bit. " . . . You're all just so brilliant. Always remember that." Each of them held uncertain expressions, trying to be happy to see her, but they all felt something was wrong in the way she said this. She felt herself being pulled back by the Doctor, making her turn to him.

"Okay, yes, we have our goodbyes in. Now, you are going to tell me what's going on," the Doctor said, forcing her to face him fully. Again, he gave her a searching look, trying to see what might be wrong with just her expression alone.

Tell him. Bad Wolf spoke in Wanda's mind, sounding firm. Wanda knew why the entity was saying this. But she still wished she could keep silent in what was going to happen to her later. Even if it meant she would be creating a paradox by not telling him, by keeping him from such heartbreak then it would be worth it to her. Tell him. Please. He might be able to help you.

You know as well as I do that he can't. Wanda replied quietly in her mind. She sucked in a breath as she directed her eyes onto her Theta's. Those big brown eyes of his . . . how could she ever deny them? "I was just . . . There's something coming up for me, so, I . . ." She swallowed, unable to say it.

"What?" he pried, trying to help her along in telling him. If it was something important, then he wanted to know so that way he could help her. With whatever it was, he wanted to help. He brushed a strand of hair from her face and behind her ear, cupping her cheek. "Please, tell me."

"I can't," Wanda breathed, her voice hitching as her eyes began to tear up. Damn. Why was this so much harder than she thought it would be? She wanted this to be a happy moment for them all. Not a sad one. This was their day of farewell. Not hers. She was intruding. She should not have come. She tried stepping back from the Doctor, but he pulled her right up to him.

"Are . . . Are you about to regenerate?" he questioned, wondering if maybe something had happened to make her begin the regeneration process but was somehow going around for a farewell reward. He knew he would have done the same if he were about to regenerate.

"No." She shook her head, knowing what he was thinking. "Just . . . finishing up a few things before . . ." She could not say it. Still wishing she could keep him from heartbreak.

"Before what? Tell me." When he received no answer, he grew more stern, grabbing her chin to make her look at him. "You've done this before. Coming to say goodbye to my Ninth face. What is it you're saying goodbye about? Are you . . ." He stopped, feeling an icy chill go through him. His breath hitched, seeing it there in her eyes. This was not a normal farewell. This was . . . "No. You're not . . ." His words came out barely above a breath. Everything wavered in him as he felt shaken as he saw all the signs there. Though wishing with all his hearts not to see them. "Are you . . . are you dying?" With her not answering him, his worst fears seemed to be answered. His eyes widened, shaking his head in denial. "Please tell me it's not true. Please tell me you're not dying. Please."

Wanda swallowed with her lip trembling. "I'm sorry. It's a fixed point in time. I can't avoid it. You know that."

"What?" gasped Donna.

"You're dying?!" Rose exclaimed, looking outraged. "To hell you are! I've just found you again!"

"Please, don't say that!" Sarah Jane said just as shocked.

"Everyone, please," Wanda said, holding up her hands to get them to calm down. Her eyes teared up even more as she gazed at them, feeling so loved in just how much they cared for her. Oh, if only she had more time to ease their worries and woes for her. She never wanted them to be troubled by her burdens. Not ever. "It's the only way to save you all. The universe . . . won't survive if I or Alpha live. And don't think I'll regret making this decision. I will meet this fate gladly for you all, the ones I love."

"No. No, no, no. Don't say that." The Doctor gripped her arms tightly, shaking as he felt a wave crashing over him.

"I'm sorry." Wanda shook her head, hearing the other companions beginning to voice concerns as well at the implications of her words. But her time was up. Second Wanda would be out here any minute now. She gave the Doctor a quick kiss before yanking away from him and running off from the group.

"Wanda!" she heard them shouting behind her. But she was gone before any could stop her.

XxXxXxXx

The blonde woman stumbled as she arrived quite suddenly to a snowy street of Powell Estate. She looked around, seeing the TARDIS just beside her. Where had she come to now? She thought by now she must be ready to go to . . . She looked over when hearing grunting of pain coming from down the way. Ten was slowly making his way down the street. Stumbling as he went, she could tell his body was struggling to keep going. From the way he blinked and shook his head, his sight must be going now, too. His face contorted as he let out an exclaim in agony, falling to his hands and knees on the snowy pavement. She ran to him then, rushing over to help him up. Placing one of his arms around her shoulders, she helped him back onto his feet. He leaned against her, panting into her ear as he tried to catch his breath. He blinked dully, seeming not recognizing her at first. Weakly he smiled at her.

"You're here," he wheezed. "I'm so . . . happy. I thought . . . I was going to be . . . alone." His words came out in gasps.

"You're never alone. Not really. And I would never let you be alone for something like this," she said softly, helping him slowly to the TARDIS. "You shouldn't have held back in your regeneration for so long, though. You know what kind of damage that does to your body."

"I wanted my . . . reward. I wanted my . . . goodbyes," he spoke in a hoarse voice. "I wanted . . . to see them all again."

"I know," she whispered, understanding completely where he was coming from. It was the same thing she was doing now, after all. She lifted up her fingers and gave a snap. The TARDIS doors slowly opened. The warm blanket of energy from the ship surrounded them in a caress, beckoning them inside for safety. The old girl would keep them safe and warm always. Once they were inside, the doors closed behind them. Wanda helped the Doctor over to the console, letting him lean against it. Gently as she could, she moved on in helping him get his overcoat off. She held the coat tightly in her hands, watching as he piloted the ship away from Powell Estate and off to somewhere else. Thumbing the tan material in her hands for just a moment, she moved over to placed the coat on a coral pillar.

"Please," the Doctor whispered behind her as he wrapped his arms around her from behind, "tell me . . . have you just come . . . from saying goodbye to us all in that park?"

"Yes," she breathed, feeling her hearts twist in how he shook while holding her. She turned in his grasp to face him. "I wanted my own reward, too. I hope that's okay."

He let out a watery laugh. "Why would it not be? If anyone deserves a reward . . . it's you, my Wanderer." He thumbed her cheek, staring searchingly into her emerald eyes, his lips trembling as his eyes began to tear up. "Please . . . I don't want you to go. Please, let me help you. I promise I won't go too far like I did. I'll be better . . . for you. I'll find a better way to save you. Please." She answered him with a caressing kiss. He sighed, leaning his forehead against hers, knowing that even if she had given up hope that he never would. Not until the very end would he ever give up hope in saving his Wanderer. "Will you miss me? Will you still love me?" he finally asked her, needing to know this last thing that was on his mind. "Will you miss me?"

"Yes," she answered, kissing him again. "I will always love and remember you, my Foxy Doctor. Our times together, oh, they were more than molto bene."

He laughed, kissing her deeply before stepping away from her. "I suppose . . . they were eccellente. Eh?" He sucked in a breath, looking down at his hands which picked up in their glow. His eyes met hers once more as his breath picked up. "I don't want to go."

"I know," she breathed sadly, feeling tears coming to her eyes. She knew how much Ten loved being alive and in this current incarnation. She wished there was more she could do for him. But she knew his time was up. Just as hers was as well. "I love you, my Theta."

"I love you, my Wanderer." He held their gazes together for one last moment before closing his eyes and letting the regeneration hit him fully.

As he threw back his head and was engulfed with golden energy, the Wanderer disappeared into another time and place.

XxXxXxXx

Where she arrived next, she stepped carefully around the very still and quiet home. It had been so long since she had been in this house that she had not recognized it at first. But soon, she saw the pictures hanging on the walls of a happily married Amy and Rory Williams. There were even a few pictures of River, too. She was glad to see how happy they all seemed in the photos. She only hoped that they were just as happy when the two companions were lost in New York of the past.

When she stepped around the corner, coming into the dining area of the home, she saw Amy and Rory both sitting at the table. Together, they held hands and held such solemn expressions. Amy had her head against Rory's shoulder while he gently stroked her hair in a soothing motion. Immediately, though it had been years since this day, Wanda knew why the companions were both so sad.

"Amy. Rory," she said quietly, earning their attention. They both looked startled, standing up quickly when seeing her just there in the entrance of the dining area.

"Wanda!" they both exclaimed, going over to her immediately. Each looked like as though they wished to hug her but stopped short as though they realized what they had been about to do. They glanced at each other warily, seeming to convey a secret message to each other before looking back at her.

"Ah . . . where have you just come from?" Rory decided to ask.

"Ha . . . That's probably something I should be asking you two," replied Wanda, giving them a wavering smile. "I'm guessing . . . you both know about Ember, right?" When seeing their fallen expressions, she knew where they had just come from. Strange. She assumed they had gone straight to New York after the time in the pocket universe. But perhaps the Doctor had dropped them off because he needed time alone? She thoughts were answered by Rory's next reply.

"You just missed the Doctor," he mumbled, looking uncertain on what else to say.

"He wanted some time alone with . . .," Amy stopped, looking very much conflicted. As though there were something she wanted to scream out but could not. Wanda knew what this most likely was.

"It's okay, Amy. It's been years for me. I'm here mostly to help you both feel more at ease with the whole situation," Wanda said kindly, going over to give them both strong hugs. They each returned the hug just as strong, gripping her hard. Each of them really not knowing what to say after they had stepped back.

"When you say years . . .," Rory began to ask.

"How long does that mean, exactly?" Amy finished in questioning.

"I'm now nine hundred thirty if that means anything," Wanda replied smoothly, not giving away any more information than that. She walked around the companions, ignoring their stunned looks.

"If you're that old . . . how long as it been since you've seen us?" Amy questioned carefully.

"Centuries," sighed Wanda. She felt uncertain about whether or not she should be telling them all of this, but . . . "My story is ending. So, I wanted to spend some time with those I loved before I have to meet my end."

"Wha—what are you talking about? You're not dying . . . are you?" Amy questioned, now very much concerned. When receiving no answer, the woman's eyes widened. "No. Don't tell us that. Please don't tell us you're dying."

"And as we've heard the Doctor say time and time again, we all have to die someday," Wanda replied, giving them a weak smile. She walked up, holding each of their hands before they could make any sort of protest or exclamation. She knew how hard it must be for them after just learning of Ember's fate to learn of hers as well. But they deserved the truth. Even if it was painful. "Don't be sad, please. I've had a happy life. So happy, more than I could ever hope for. But now . . . I just want to spend . . . a day with my beloved parents one last time." She let go of their hands, now feeling idiotic for saying that. "Sorry, I made things weird, didn't I?"

"No," Amy whispered, stepping forward to wrap Wanda into a comforting hug, "you've always been my Wanderer. Now more than ever."

"We'd be happy to be . . . your parents for a day," Rory added. He sounded more unsure about everything that Wanda was saying and from the strange time they had just come from the pocket universe. But he still wished to help the Wanderer feel at ease with whatever was coming for her next. And for that, Wanda loved them both even more.

In the end, they treated her like she really was a child of theirs. In many ways, something that they had always sort of acted like before. Even if they had never really thought of it that way until now. And even though they knew of how Wanda had viewed them in her world within the pocket universe, it felt like nothing really changed in their relationship with the Wanderer. In fact, it helped them each in loving her even more.

They took her to the park where they spent a nice, beautiful day playing games in the grass. They went out to get ice cream, laughing how Wanda giggled and bounced around as she ate her sweet treat. Then, the rest of the time they just spent talking and reminiscing together while they strolled about. Soon, after they gotten back to their home, Wanda grew tired. It had been a while since she had last slept. She did not wish to, though. Sleep that was. Time was running out for her and she did not wish to waste it sleeping. But of course, they scolded her and forced her into bed in the room she and the Doctor had once shared when living there.

Wanda smiled, enjoying how Amy turned on gentle music for her to listen to. She was asleep before either of them could say or act even more caring to her. Amy ended up fluffing up a pillow under Wanda's head and Rory pulled up the covers around the blonde even more. They held each other's hands tightly as they walked out of the room, sending fleeting glances towards the sleeping Wanda as though wishing there was more they could do or say to her. When they ended up downstairs, they stopped when seeing the Doctor there at their front door. They could hear him muttering quietly to someone just on the other side of the door. Soon, he shut the door with a sigh after there was a flash of white light on the other side. He turned, looking forlorn, but not as sad as they had seen him before. When spotting them at the foot of the stairs, he smiled lightly.

"Hello, Ponds," he spoke quietly. He rubbed his hands together, glancing into the kitchen. "Apparently, we're supposed to go to New York next. Not sure why, but there's already a picnic packed for us and—." He stopped, seeing the sad expressions on his companions' faces. "What's wrong? Look, I know things were bleak from Wanda's world, but after meeting—."

"Wanda's here," Rory stopped the Doctor before he could say anything more. The Time Lord paused, swallowing heavily.

"Which Wanda?" he asked in a hushed tone.

"Third," said Amy. She walked down quickly to the Doctor, giving him a tight hug before pulling back to look at him with such sadness. "She says . . . her story is ending. That she's dying." It was only a second of confusion from the Doctor before he bolted up the stairs where he felt his Wanderer was. Amy and Rory looked at each other sadly, grabbing each other's hand and walking into the lounge to let the two upstairs be.

The Doctor rushed into the room where he felt his love. But he stopped himself from exclaiming in a panic like he wanted to when seeing Wanda peacefully asleep in the bed. He stood there for a moment, just watching how relaxed she appeared to be as gentle breaths left her. Slowly, he came around the other side of the bed, getting under the covers with her. He scooted up, very carefully wrapping his arms around her and holding her close to him. Fortunately, she did not wake. Only cuddling up to him more as she slept on. This is how they stayed for hours. With the Doctor soothingly stroking her hair, feeling her hearts beat against his chest and thinking on what to do once she woke up. It had been so long since they had last discussed the day of her seeming death. Not since he had regenerated into his recent incarnation. Hell, he had almost forgotten about it. But after the last few days of what he and the others had seen and done . . . it now flooded him through him. The horror of knowing what Wanda was facing. What he would be facing. The very idea of losing her . . .

The Doctor shivered as dismay and horror swept through him. He refused to even think about it. Life without her . . . was unthinkable. What made it even worse was knowing . . . Damn spoilers. Damn paradoxes. If only he could . . . He froze when Wanda began to shift against him. His hold around her tightened somewhat in a sort of fear of her suddenly disappearing from his arms. He gave her the best smile he could muster as she sleepily blinked at him. Gently her hand came up, stroking the side of his face as she stared back so lovingly at him.

"Hi," she breathed.

"Hello," he chuckled, his smile wavering a bit. "Did you get enough sleep?"

"I think so," she chuckled weakly, leaning up to give him a brief kiss. "How are you feeling, sweetie? Where have you just come from?"

"Isn't that usually my question?" he teased, smiling more warmly now. His smile lessened as she gave him a knowing look. She knew where he had just come from. And it made her even more melancholy.

"Oh, Theta . . . I'm so sorry. If only I could change time for you."

He swallowed thickly, feeling his mouth go dry. "I wish the same thing. Oh, my Wanderer. If only I could change all of time and space. I would just for you." He pulled her forward, kissing her on the head. He held her to where she could rest her head in the crook of his neck. The perfect spot so that she could not see his tears beginning to form. Neither of them said anything for a long moment. Then, he took in a shaking breath, moving onto what they must talk about.

Since it had been so long . . . he had time to think over her so-called 'fixed point death' as she had said in the past. Something he absolutely refused to believe in . . . in the past. But after facing his own so-called 'fixed point,' he began to think that there was some truth to what was coming for her. The end to her story and such. But, again, he refused to believe it. If he could figure out a way to cheat his 'fixed point death' then he knew he could do the same for her. However, he could do nothing for her if she did not tell him what was coming for her. Would she even be willing to disclose such information? She seemed so willing to accept her fate that she might not be wanting to tell him what was coming. Perhaps as a way to keep him safe. In more ways than one. Maybe if he could trick her into telling him . . .

"Wanda . . . where are you going to next?" he asked quietly. She did not say anything for so long he thought perhaps she had gone back to sleep. But soon, she let out a long sigh, pulling away from him. She stared at him for a few minutes, gently stroking a thumb across his face, even letting her fingertips brush through his hair. It was like she was memorizing everything about this moment with him. Was she truly going straight into her death after their time together currently? "Please," he whispered weakly, feeling his throat tighten as tears pricked his eyes, "please, I need to know. I just . . ."

"Trenzalore," she replied, making him freeze up. "That is where I will die."

"But that's—."

"I know." She knew what he was thinking. It was the same place as the so-called prophecy had mentioned. The place where the infamous question would be asked. She wondered if he knew this would be the place of his so-called 'grave.'

"Will I die there, too?" he questioned, rather curious now.

"No. Your story will continue on for a very long time. Something that gives me peace in knowing that."

"Please." His voice cracked as tears began to fall down his face. "Please, don't leave me. How can I live without you?"

Wanda felt her own tears trailing down her face. Seeing how much heartache she was causing her Time Lord just crushed her. She grabbed his hand, giving his wrist the most tender kiss. "Please, don't be sad, my Theta. You will have the most brilliant life just as you always have." She stared at him intently. "Promise me something, though, before I go. Promise me you will never be alone. After I'm gone, promise me you'll find someone to make you happy. Even if it is just a friend to be by your side, find that someone and be a Doctor for them."

"I . . ." He swallowed heavily. "I promise."

Wanda felt some relief. Though she knew that most likely he would still falter with this promise. But at least she knew he would try and that was all that mattered to her. She gave his wrist one more kiss, hoping that she did not hurt him too badly this day. She closed her eyes as she felt the warmth beginning to spread through her. "Goodbye, my Theta. I love you."

The Doctor laid there, staring at the spot where his love had been. He turned to his back, gazing up at the ceiling in sorrow and silently cried.

XxXxXxXx

I don't know how long we've got now. Not long I think. Poor Wanda. Poor Doctor. Poor everyone. :( Any thoughts you wish to share, please feel free to leave a review. Especially if you wish to share some words of comfort. I think we're going to be needed it.

Reviewers:

lautaro94: Not quite sure what you mean there. I don't know the story of Zagreus, so really that's just a coincidence there. Sorry if I confused you with that in this story and that one is so similar. Anyway, I hope that you enjoyed the chapter at least. :)

swimmjacket: So glad you liked it! This adventure is one of my favorites, so you know I had to go all out for it. ;) I'm certain we'll find out who Aleena is before we are even ready for it. No, not much time at all now. Umm . . . yeah, about that . . . Well, I hope that you liked this chapter. Until next time!

All The Stories Are True 24601: haha Yep, definitely wandaful! :D So glad you liked it!

softthanos: So happy that you enjoyed it all! :) Well, he really doesn't have to give an answer per say. Just show Alpha a reason the universe is worth living. Nothing so far has shown Alpha that, so if he dies before she sees the reason to continue on and maybe make a new promise . . . Well, let's not think about that. I'm nervous-cited as well. haha. Can't wait to see what you think about the new chapter!

SakuraRcoa: Oh, no, I'm sorry that it was confusing. Really, it's not something to be really explained until the ending. Sorry again that it wasn't conveyed well. I hope that this chapter is a little better of a read.

bored411: Good theories. Could be either one of those, or she could be something else entirely. Guess we'll have to wait to find out. ;) Hope you enjoy the rest to come! Trust me, I feel the same. Poor Wanda. :(

silverhawk88: She might be. Or might not. Guess we won't know until the very end. Hope you enjoy the story until then. ;)

Momochan77: haha We will know soon. Trust me on this. ;) A little bit of everywhere of where Wanda popped up. And I think we all know where she's going to next. :( Hope to see you again soon!

Aliza Shepard: She could be. Good theory there. Can't wait to see if it comes true. :) I'm very happy to hear that you have enjoyed the story so much. I just hope that you will continue to find joy through reading them. Even if it isn't always great at times. Thank you for the health wishes, too! :)

Rosealyn: So glad you enjoyed it! There's always so many questions at times with very little answers haha. I think we'll find out all our answers very soon. ;) Very nice theories. I love them all! I think you're right on every one of them, but again time will tell with that. ;) I really hope that you liked the new chapter and will like the ending to come. Take care!

Belle France: She could be. Or could not. Who knows at this point. ;)

I cant read: You might be right there. Or Aleena could always be someone else entirely. Who knows at this point. Hope you like the new chapter! And thank you for the well wishes. :)

John736: Next chapter coming up. ;)

Guest(a): So glad that you liked it. :) It really is nearing the final bend now. Not much longer until we've come to a close on Wanda's story. :( I'm both looking forward to seeing how everyone likes part four and not looking forward to seeing the close to this trilogy. Good theory! Now it's just time to wait and see what happens next. ;) Until next time!

normandy1701: Aww, glad you liked her in this chapter. I think she was precious as well. :) Sorry to say, but I think what you think is gonna happen will indeed happen in the end. I'm so very sorry. :( Though finding out about Aleena will be worth it in the end I think. Hope you enjoyed the chapter and to see you again soon!

Moony R J Lupin: Yay! I'm just so happy that you liked it. :) Thank you for the health wishes and to see you again soon.

FREYA ASTRID NOVA: Very happy that you liked it. :) Worked very hard on making certain it was a good adventure. One of my favorites, so had to make certain it went well. Having all of the characters we love come together . . . it was too good of an adventure to pass up. I just had to make it epic haha ;) Who knows who Aleena is at this point. I know I don't lol ;) Until next time!

Whovianeverlark17: haha Very glad that you enjoyed it. :) Many questions, and so little answers. I'm certain we will get all our answers shortly. ;) Though the promise Alpha made was answered in the last chapter. Basically, a promise that she won't destroy the universe as long as the Doctor is either alive or can show her a reason to let everyone live. Sorry if the message wasn't conveyed well in the last chapter. But really hope that all messages are clear in this one and that it was an enjoyable read. :)

Wicken25: Hmm, good thoughts. Maybe she's both, or something else entirely. ;) Guess we'll just have to wait.

Mo: I'm not certain if you have either, but I'm very happy to see from you now. :D I'm just so happy that this story has brought you such joy. Aww, I'm so touched. I'm certain that whatever stories you create will be a million times better than anything I could ever write. You'll be fantastic. :) Thank you for taking the time to show support to the story and letting me know just how much joy it brought to you. I really hope to see you again the future. Take care!

Thanks again to all who posted a review. As always, cookies for all and a million hugs for a good life and great week. :)

~Tinker~