Prologue

The TARDIS materialized parallel to a huge stellar core fragment. It was quite spherical, not too nubly (unlike an asteroid) emitting a bluish-white glow, with cascades of sparklies, occasion blue-violet gamma ray bursts.

The TARDIS was visiting the Moab sector to track the stellar core fragment of a disintegrated neutron star. The Doctor wanted to monitor the planetary disruptions in may cause.

In the Control Room, Nita was leaning over the Doctor at the console, reacting with concern to something. Carolyn and Michelle were also at the console.

"Looks like we've got a problem… our core fragment is going to pass by Moab Four in six days."

"That's what we anticipated."

"We didn't anticipate that somebody would be living there. An artificial environment has been constructed on the southern continent."

"Have you definitely established someone's inside it?"

"Yes, Doctor. Sensors are reading Human lifeforms."

"Human."

"Has there been a response to our hails, Michelle?"

"No, Nita."

"Any starships ever reported missing in this sector, Carolyn?"

"No."

"How the hell did they get themselves on a deserted planet?"

"I'm pretty sure they know we're here."

"Michelle?"

"I'm picking up deep E-M readings… looks like wave emissions from an obsolete subspace relay."

"Which would suggest they also have the ability to communicate with us."

"Michelle, open the lower band frequencies that were most commonly used in the last century."

"Channel open."

"This is the Doctor of Gallifrey. It is urgent that you respond."

"Defensive shields around the structure are increasing strength."

"Not exactly a welcome mat."

"We mean you no harm. We must warn you that your planet is about to experience massive seismic disruptions due to an approaching stellar core fragment. No structure will be able to withstand them."

"They are responding."

"On screen."

On the viewscreen appeared a human male, in his late 30's or early 40's. He wore power and authority easily for one relatively young and boyish looking. At the moment, he was obviously troubled.

"Doctor… I am John Snyder."

"Mister Snyder, we were unaware of any Human colony in this system."

"Doctor, I don't want to be rude but we don't wish to interact with outsiders. I have only responded because of your warning."

"The fragment will begin to have serious effects on your planet in six days."

"Yes, I know. We have been tracking it. But our biosphere has been contructed to withstand quakes of eight-point-seven on the Richter Scale."

"Carolyn?"

"The fragment has a density of one hundred billion kilograms per cubic centimeter. As a result, when it passes Moab Four, it will cause tectonic shifts well beyond eight-point-seven on the Richter Scale."

"I'm afraid we're going to have to evacuate your people."

"Evacuate? That's not possible. There must be an alternative."

"The alternative, sir, is dying."

"Mister Snyder, if you wish, we will find you another isolated planet that is safe."

"No, we must remain here."

"Maybe we haven't made ourselves clear."

"Of course, you have, Madam… and I hope I've made myself clear that we must seek an alternative solution."

"We will gladly explore the possibility with you, Mister Snyder… would you care to come aboard to discuss it?"

"Our environment is sealed. No one can get in or out."

"We are capable of materialization."

"Materialization?"

"Disappear here and appear there."

"Really. That's quite remarkable."

"May we arrange to materialize around you?"

"No. I must stay here."

The Doctor exchanged a glance with Nita, beginning to get impatient with this fellow.

"But under the circumstances, I will permit a small delegation from your ship inside the biosphere… if only to see this materialization you speak of."

"Very good. Nita and others will join you shortly. Doctor out."

The viewscreen returned to the planet. The Doctor was thoughtful.

"You three go, Nita."

Nita acknowledged and as she turned… "Michelle – I want to overwhelm him with evidence."

"Understood."

"Carolyn…"

She nodded and they moved toward the door.

Later, in a Genome courtyard, a thin, studious man in his 50's was arguing with Snyder. Both men were excellent physical specimens, dressed in comfortable clothes – closer to 20th-century garb than that of their time period.

"This is a mistake."

"Good Lord, Canada, what would you have me do?"

"Anything that would keep them out of here."

"We have nothing to hide."

"We have a great deal to lose."

They reacted to the sound of the TARDIS materializing.

"What is that?"

"It's them… Look at this, Canada."

They watched the TARDIS materialize.

"Incredible."

Nita, Michelle and Carolyn stepped out of the TARDIS and looked around, and began to have an inkling why these people were reluctant to leave. The Genome Colony was lush, spacious and peaceful. The courtyard was the main gathering place and there were dozens of people watching with amazement at the trio's arrival… they were all very attractive, perfect physical specimens. Exotic vegetation and pleasant seating areas make it an inviting, comfortable area. Walls with see-through panels separated this paradise from the red, barren, noxious landscape beyond – an ever-present indication that this courtyard was merely an oasis from the toxic atmosphere outside.

"Hello. Forgive me… I'm not sure how to welcome you. You are the first visitors we've ever had."