This story was never completely finished. However, most of the
important parts are extent. Parts of the script that were never fleshed
out are here in italics.
Story Copyright 1991, 1994 Douglas B. Killings; All rights reserved.
Additional revisions, August 1998. HTML Markup, August 2000.
Episode One
Dark Reunion
"Let anger now be your song..."
-- Homer, The Iliad
Opening scenes: While visiting a distant planet (possibly the planet from the previous episode), Ace comes down with a disease that the Doctor finds rather familiar. Aboard the TARDIS, he makes a diagnosis: Lazar's disease. Not taking any chances, he wheels out a medi-doc, a sort of suspended-animation thing on wheels.
ACE
What's that?
THE DOCTOR
A top-of-the-line Maas Biolabs Medi-doc. It should check the spread
of the disease until we can get help.
The Doctor opens the Medi-doc unit and motions for Ace to get in. Ace looks at the contraption dubiously. Nevertheless, she crawls in. The Doctor gives her a hand, then begins to examine the side control panel when she is inside. Ace puts an electrode-headdress like contraption on her head.
ACE
Perfessor, are you sure this thing is safe?
THE DOCTOR
Perfectly. You haven't a thing to worry about.
ACE
Why doesn't that make me feel better?
THE DOCTOR
Because you tend to mistrust everything I say.
ACE
And you think I don't have a good reason?
THE DOCTOR
(sounding a little annoyed)
Not really. You'd save us both a lot of trouble if you listened to
me every once in a while. Like now.
The Doctor pushes a few buttons and the medi-doc powers up. He closes the lid and secures it shut. For a brief moment the power fades off, but after a brief kick from The Doctor it goes back up again. Ace's eyes are wide in terror.
THE DOCTOR
Nothing to be alarmed about. It always does that once or twice when
it's taken out of storage.
ACE
(from inside the medi-doc, a tinge of fear in her voice)
And when was the last time this thing was out of storage?
THE DOCTOR
Oh, maybe a century or so ago. Sweat dreams.
Before Ace can protest further, The Doctor pushes a few buttons and Ace goes unconscious. The Doctor then examines the read-out and makes a few adjustments.
THE DOCTOR
There, that should hold you. At least I won't have to worry about you
blowing up the lab again.
The Doctor goes to the TARDIS control console and begins pulling up information on a computer screen. After a few moments he finds what he is looking for and begins to make adjustments on the console. The central column starts working, a sure sign the TARDIS is underway.
THE DOCTOR
Well, Ace, if we're going to find you a cure it would be best to go
to an expert... and I suppose it would be courteous to at least warn her
we're coming.
As The Doctor is about to begin sending a communication, the camera zooms onto the console computer screen, and for a brief moment we see the word "Terminus".
CUT TO: SFX shot of space.
A big ship appears, vaguely military in look. It is a mercenary assault
carrier, but looks like it has seen better days. As we watch the ship slide
through space, we hear a gruff female voice talking over the radio. She
sounds very perturbed.
FEMALE VOICE
Administrator, you are making this very difficult. Why should I allow
a search of my ship before docking?
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of assault carrier.
A roughly 40's-ish woman, the gruff voice, is leaning against a control
console and talking to a television screen. She is GERA TERUKA, captain
of the ship and leader of the mercenaries. On the screen is a much younger
woman, looking very business-like but slightly annoyed. She, of course,
is NYSSA, now Administrator of Terminus Station.
NYSSA
Captain Teruka, ordinarily I can't even allow armed vessels of any
sort within ten units of Terminus Station. You know the Accords. Terminus
is a neutral, free station. Military vessels of any sort are forbidden
by inter-galactic law.
GERA
Administrator, I have 278 cases of Lazar's onboard my ship, half of
which are already beyond stage two. I've already had almost forty fatalities
just getting here. Do you want me to lose another forty more while I wait
for your inspection team?
CUT TO: Interior, Nyssa's office on Terminus.
At Nyssa's side stands a slightly younger woman, her SECRETARY. In
the room is also a much older man, dressed in the uniform of Terminus Security.
His name is GAIRLEK, and he is Terminus' Chief of Security. Nyssa mulls
over the problem presented by Gera.
NYSSA
Captain Teruka, I understand your concern, and if there is any way
I can speed things up I will do so. But you must understand our problem
as well. Terminus is far too important to allow to fall into anyone else's
hands, and we've already had to repulse two such attempts in the past.
I will not allow even the possibility of a third.
GERA
(from video screen)
Ma'am, my troops aren't in any condition to stand on their own, let
alone fight. If you don't believe me, come see for yourself.
NYSSA
That's quite unnecessary. I've already read the initial reports.
Gairlek coughs, and Nyssa looks up at her security chief.
GAIRLEK
Ma'am, might I suggest that we search the patients as they board the
station, then inspect their ship afterwards. They can't smuggle weapons
through our security system, and should the ship prove hostile we can deal
with it.
NYSSA
Does that sound satisfactory?
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of assault carrier.
GERA
No, but it's the only option you've given me that works.
CUT TO: Interior, Nyssa's Office on Terminus.
NYSSA
Then you are clear to approach no closer than ten units distant, at
which time you will be met by our security ships and escorted to Terminus.
You are to follow their directions completely; any deviation will be viewed
as an act of hostile intent and will be handled accordingly. Is that understood?
GERA
(from desk communicator; sighing)
Understood. Our ETA is six hours, fifteen minutes. Blackbird
out.
NYSSA
Terminus out.
(To Gairlek)
Are you certain they do not pose a threat?
GAIRLEK
Our medivac team reports they definitely have the contagion onboard.
If it is a ruse, they've gone to awfully great lengths. But don't worry;
we can handle anything they might throw at us.
While Gairlek is speaking, there is a beeping noise off-camera. Nyssa's secretary goes to answer it.
NYSSA
(shaking head)
I hope you're right... There's still something I don't like about this,
but alright. Make certain before they dock they pose no threat... understood?
GAIRLEK
Yes, ma'am. Understood
The secretary returns.
SECRETARY
Umm... Administrator. There's a communication here you should look
at.
NYSSA
Oh? Put it on my screen.
Nyssa turns to read her screen. There is a look of obvious surprise on her face -- and a bit of pleasure.
GAIRLEK
Something wrong?
NYSSA
(chuckling to herself)
Oh no, far from it.
(she turns to Gairlek)
Just someone coming for a visit.
(she smiles)
An old friend...
CUT TO: SFX, space.
Another spaceship hanging in space. It is smaller, leaner, vaguely
hawk-like in appearance. It too looks like it has seen better days.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of smaller ship.
The flight deck of this ship is far more compact than that of Gera
Teruka's assault carrier. It is cluttered with cockpit-style instrument
boards, computer screens, and various other electronic devices. There is
a pilot's station in the front, with a large, bulky seat equipped with
heavy straps. Significantly, this station also contains a number of obviously
weapons-related controls. There are two crewmembers on the flight-deck,
a man and a woman, both of whom look to be roughly late twenties or early
thirties, although the woman may be a few years younger. The woman -- VIK
-- is bent over a computer screen and looks rather perturbed. The man --
KAL -- is standing nearby.
VIK
Oh dear. Kal, you'd better come and look at this.
Kal goes to Vik.
KAL
What's up, Vik?
VIK
(pressing a few buttons)
I'm not sure, but I think I've just detected the time-wake of a TARDIS.
KAL
(alarmed)
Uh oh. Any idea whose?
VIK
(pause, examining screen)
I think it may be The Doctor's.
KAL
(shaking head)
Great, just great. That's all we need now.
VIK
(sighing, shaking head)
I suppose it was inevitable we'd run into him sometime. You're right,
though -- this does muddle things somewhat. I wonder what the Captain will
think?
KAL
I don't think he'll like it one bit.
(he turns to a speaker on the console)
SELDON, are you there?
From above, a computer-esque voice is heard. It is SELDON, the ship's artificial intelligence.
SELDON
Affirmative.
KAL
Wake-up Captain tel-Varesh and tell him to come to the flight deck,
immediately. Tell him, uh, something's come up.
SELDON
Affirmative.
KAL
(to Vik)
The Doctor could ruin everything, you know. No matter what our reasons...
he'd still call it murder.
Vik considers this, but says nothing. Kal leans over and tears a computer print-out. As he does so there is a `whoosh', and the door to the flight deck opens. The camera centers on Captain tel-Varesh's back; we do not see his face, nor does he talk. He does, however, appear to be roughly the same age as the other two. Kal hands him the computer print-out.
KAL
Bad news, sir. It looks like The Doctor's on Terminus.
Captain tel-Varesh briefly examines the print-out, then angrily crumples it.
The TARDIS arrives on Terminus and is met by Nyssa. The Doctor explains what has happened to Ace and a medical team wheels her out. Nyssa begins an examination of Ace.
CUT TO: SFX, space.
A shot of Terminus. A voice, Kal, is heard over the radio.
KAL
Affirmative, Terminus control. This is free-merchant vessel Dublin
Again, six weeks out of Pell Station. We request clearance for docking
approach.
TRAFFIC CONTROL
Affirmative, Dublin Again. You are cleared for docking at bay
twenty-eight. Once docked, please standby for ship inspection and boarding
clearance.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus room.
On one wall is a docking hatch, from which emerges Kal, Vik, tel-Varesh,
and several Terminus security guards. The three crewmembers are wearing
loose-fitting jackets; tel-Varesh is wearing a distinctive black flightsuit
and a black helmet with a dark-glass faceplate, obscuring his face. They
are met by Gairlek and several more Terminus security personnel. The three
hand Gairlek identification and other papers. As they do, one security
guard (from the ship) -- SALAZAR -- approaches Gairlek and salutes. His
name is displayed prominently on his uniform.
SALAZAR
Sir! Inspection complete. All weapons are stowed and deactivated, no
other contraband detected.
Gairlek examines the three and their identification.
GAIRLEK
Your purpose on Terminus?
KAL
We've been contracted to pick-up medical supplies: Lazar-serum, and
the like. The purchase order should be there.
GAIRLEK
(examining papers)
Yes, I see... Is that all?
KAL
Well, that and stretching our feet, really. We haven't been off our
ship in more than a month.
GAIRLEK
(looking at papers and the three skeptically)
Pell station, eh? You three look to be an awfully long way from home.
KAL
(shrugging)
It's a living, I suppose.
GAIRLEK
(indicating tel-Varesh)
What's the matter with him?
KAL
He took a plasma-bolt to the face a few months ago; hasn't quite healed
yet. The medics say he might never. Believe me, you really don't want to
see him without the helmet.
Gairlek examines tel-Varesh from head to shoulder.
GAIRLEK
Hmmm. You know, we do have doctors who might be able to help.
Tel-Varesh slowly nods. When he speaks, his voice sounds distinctly distorted and unnatural, as if he were speaking through a voice synthesizer in his helmet. It is also even and business-like, with very little emotion.
TEL-VARESH
Unfortunately, most procedures require use of Quadro-seema, which I
am severely allergic to.
Gairlek shrugs, but decides to let them board.
GAIRLEK
Well, your papers seem to be in order. I suppose there's no sense in
delaying you any longer.
(he hands identification to Vik)
Marie Curie...?
(hands identification and papers to Kal)
Enrico Fermi...?
(handing identification to tel-Varesh).
and, Paul Adrien Maurice. The three of you are only authorized
to enter green and yellow areas. If you are found elsewhere without authorization,
you will be subject to arrest, detention, and deportation. Do you understand?
The three agree.
GAIRLEK
All right, then. Have a good stay on Terminus, what there is of it.
Lodging can be found on levels one and two, food on level three. Anything
else you might want, ask around. We're all here to help.
The three depart. After they have left, Gairlek motions for Salazar.
GAIRLEK
(whispering)
Try to keep an eye on those three. There's something not quite right
about them.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
Kal, Vik, and tel-Varesh are moving rather quickly down the corridor.
There are many other people -- some patients, some Terminus employees,
some nondescript others -- moving with them.
VIK
We're being followed...
KAL
I noticed. Not very good at hiding it, is he?
A throng of people come between them and their pursuer. Tel-Varesh motions toward a side corridor.
TEL-VARESH
Down there. Quickly...
The three enter this corridor, then quickly take another. They lose Salazar and find a safe place to talk.
VIK
Friendly hospital, this. It's practically an armed camp.
KAL
After what BioGen did to it, I'm not surprised. They're still not happy
about losing this place.
Kal takes out a communicator from his belt and speaks into it.
KAL
SELDON, are you there?
SELDON
(from communicator)
Affirmative.
KAL
Lock on our position and transmat.
SELDON
Affirmative.
CUT TO: Interior, the small spaceship.
The camera centers on a gunrack, in which are locked a large number
of weapons. Three small-to-medium guns begin to dematerialize, along with
some miscellaneous electronic instruments attached to a belt, which have
been nonchalantly draped over the gunrack.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
The gear materializes in front of them. The three each pick up a weapon
and sling them underneath their jackets. Kal takes the belt, but hands
one instrument to tel-Varesh.
KAL
Here, sir. You'll need this.
VIK
(grim-faced)
Are you sure this is really necessary? We could at least try talking
with The Doctor... We don't have to tell him everything.
TEL-VARESH
He'll figure it out. He isn't stupid, you know. Besides... the moment
he finds out I'm here he'll start asking questions. That's something we
can't afford at the moment.
VIK
(skeptically)
We can't? Or just you?
KAL
Leave it alone, Vik. You know he's right. Right now The Doctor is more
of a threat to this than anyone else.
TEL-VARESH
Vik... if that Bastard really is here, and there's no other way to
get the task done, I'll be the first to walk up to The Doctor and shake
his hand. But as long as there's the possibility we can get this done before
he knows what's happened... well, I'd rather take my chances against an
army of Daleks than to go up against The Doctor when he has his mind made
up.
VIK
I'll make sure to remember you said that. If you ask me, you're making
a big mistake. But... very well. What now?
TEL-VARESH
You see what you can find out on the lower decks, working your way
upwards. I'm going toward the upper levels. If you see or find any sign
of our target, tell me immediately. Got it?
KAL, VIK
Yessir...
TEL-VARESH
All right, then... move out.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
Salazar is busy looking for Kal, Vik, and tel-Varesh. He has doubled
back toward where the three lost him. Suddenly, from down another corridor,
comes a crash, a loud curse, then a strained male voice. Salazar turns
to investigate.
MALE VOICE
Hey, can you give me a hand over here?
Salazar shrugs, but goes to investigate. He cautiously walks down a corridor toward the voices. At the far end he finds a single man -- FABIO BAUM -- grinning.
SALAZAR
Sure. What do you need?
FABIO BAUM
Oh, nothing much...
Two men suddenly appear behind Salazar. They silently attack him.
FABIO BAUM
Just your life... and your uniform, of course.
Nyssa pronounces Ace's infection as "early, but not serious". She prescribes a new treatment that she has developed, saying "it should have her up in no time". While Ace is recuperating, The Doctor, very impressed with his former companion, gets filled in on the ten or so years it has been since she left the TARDIS. Most of the original group from "Terminus" have all gone their separate ways -- Valgard has retired, naming Gairlek his successor; Kari is still pirating and "drops by every once in a while"; the Garm disappeared one day and has not been seen or heard of since; and Olivr "got tired of the station and went back home" (NOTE: There should be a slight tinge of regret with these words). Nyssa, meanwhile, has managed to get Galactic opinion on her side and have Terminus declared an independent medical facility, with it's own finances and charities. BioGen, which owned Terminus Inc., still covets the place, but is unable to make it's claim stick due to heavy public sentiment against them. Meanwhile, unbeknownst to either of them, Kal, Vik, and the mysterious tel-Varesh are lurking their way through Terminus, intent on finding their "target". Kal and Vik almost stumble into Fabio Baum, and are immediately alarmed -- even more so when they realize he is wearing the uniform of Salazar, the security officer who was following them. They KNOW something is up. While this is happening, tel-Varesh is attempting to reach some of the upper levels through a very public corridor -- one where lots of other people and aliens are moving about. At the other end of the corridor, Nyssa and The Doctor are continuing to catch up on their lives.
The Doctor and Nyssa continue talking. As they walk, at the far end of the corridor (the direction they are traveling), tel-Varesh rounds a corner. He freezes suddenly as he sees the two.
NYSSA
Oh, it's not all bad. I still get into the lab a few times a week and
work on some of my projects, continue my research.
THE DOCTOR
But Administrator for the entire station... Somehow that doesn't sound
like you.
Tel-Varesh begins to -- slowly -- walk toward them. He seems to be listening very carefully. They do not take any special notice of him in the crowd.
NYSSA
(shrugging)
I didn't plan on it. I didn't even want the job when they offered it
to me. But someone had to do it, and after the mess BioGen made of this
place... well, I didn't want to see all that work destroyed for lack of
decent organization.
THE DOCTOR
Any regrets?
Tel-Varesh walks past them, trying not to look too obvious. The Doctor frowns slightly but does not seem to give any special attention to him.
NYSSA
(sighing)
A few, I suppose. Life doesn't always work out the way you plan it.
But all things considered... I suppose you just learn to take happiness
where you can find it.
THE DOCTOR
How true. I just wish the rest of the universe were that reasonable.
Once the two are safely behind him, tel-Varesh ducks into a side-corridor. There, he cautiously peers around the corner, carefully taking one last glimpse of the two.
NYSSA
It would make things a lot easier, wouldn't it?
THE DOCTOR
(voice trailing off)
Yes, I suppose it would at...
Out of the corner of his eye, The Doctor notices tel-Varesh just as tel-Varesh brings his head back. The Doctor stares for a moment, puzzled.
NYSSA
Something wrong?
THE DOCTOR
I don't think so, but... that man who just passed us, the one in the
helmet. Did he seem a little peculiar to you?
NYSSA
Not especially. We get all kinds of people here, after all. Why, do
you think there's something the matter?
THE DOCTOR
Probably not. Maybe I'm just getting paranoid in my old age, but...
there seemed to be something rather odd about him...
Nyssa considers for a moment, then pulls out a communicator.
NYSSA
Administrator Nyssa to Security Chief Gairlek.
GAIRLEK
(from communicator)
Gairlek here.
NYSSA
Can you report to my office as soon as you can?
GAIRLEK
Is it important?
NYSSA
I'm not certain... It's probably nothing, but it might be best to make
sure.
GAIRLEK
Alright, I'm on my way. Gairlek out.
THE DOCTOR
(shaking head)
It's probably nothing to worry about...
NYSSA
(slight grin)
Oh no, Doctor. I know you too well. Whole star systems begin to tremble
whenever alarm bells go off in your head.
The Doctor laughs. The two head for Nyssa's office.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
Tel-Varesh checks from side to side to make sure there is no one else
around. He can be heard muttering to himself.
TEL-VARESH
Damn, damn, DAMN!!!
There is a beep in his helmet. Tel-Varesh taps one side.
TEL-VARESH
Tel-Varesh here...
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
Kal and Vik are watching the bogus security guards intently.
KAL
Sir, we've got a big problem. Gera's here, or at least nearby.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
TEL-VARESH
(alarmed)
Are you certain?
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
VIK
Very. We just saw Fabio Baum and two others I know are Gera's people.
Fabio's wearing the uniform of the security guard who followed us.
KAL
Fabio's her point-man, sir. Something must be going down -- and soon.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
TEL-VARESH
Well, that beats my problem... There's someone else here who can identify
me. Another old acquaintance.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
VIK
Orders, sir?
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of assault carrier.
Gera Teruka is leaning against the console again, listening intently.
There is a slight smile on her face. A communications officer is seated
at the console.
TEL-VARESH
(from console)
Keep your eye on Fabio and the others. Watch their every move. Tell
me immediately the moment they do anything.
VIK
(from console)
What about you, sir?
TEL-VARESH
(from console)
It appears... I'm going to have a long talk with the Doctor after all.
Tel-Varesh out.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
TEL-VARESH
(to himself)
Somehow I never expected it to happen this way... Now, how the hell
do I do this?
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of assault carrier.
GERA
(to Communications Officer)
Did you get a fix on their positions?
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Yes, ma'am. Levels four and nineteen. Shall I order a team to intercept
them?
GERA
No, it's too close to operation commencement. Warn the reconnaissance
teams, though. Discreetly. We don't want the fool and his friends alerted.
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Yes, ma'am.
Gera turns away and heads toward the front of the flight deck, where a certain black-suited figure is standing. We only see his back, but it is very familiar. He is watching the stars, contemplating.
GERA
Sir! I'm afraid we may have a problem. It appears tel-Varesh is on
Terminus.
The figure laughs, then turns around to face Gera. As he turns around, the camera holds on his face, revealing...
THE MASTER
Really? So the fool has come as well? How amusing...
(laughter)
My, my... it seems we have something of a reunion in the works, don't
we? A rather unexpected reunion...
Camera centers on a tight shot of The Master.
THE MASTER
But this time, Doctor... you and your friends won't walk away so easily.
The Master snickers.
End episode, roll credits.
Episode Two
Shadows of the Past
"And I looked, and beheld a pale horse; and his name that sat on him
was Death..."
-- Revelations 6:8
RECAP OF PREVIOUS EPISODE:
SCENE: Interior, flight deck of assault carrier.
GERA
(to Communications Officer)
Did you get a fix on their positions?
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Yes, ma'am. Levels four and nineteen. Shall I order a team to intercept
them?
GERA
No, it's too close to operation commencement. Warn the reconnaissance
teams, though. Discreetly. We don't want the fool and his friends alerted.
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Yes, ma'am.
Gera turns away and heads toward the front of the flight deck, where a certain black-suited figure is standing. We only see his back, but it is very familiar. He is watching the stars, contemplating.
GERA
Sir! I'm afraid we may have a problem. It appears tel-Varesh is on
Terminus.
The figure laughs, then turns around to face Gera. As he turns around, the camera holds on his face, revealing...
THE MASTER
Really? So the fool has come as well? How amusing...
(laughter)
My, my... it seems we have something of a reunion in the works, don't
we? A rather unexpected reunion...
Camera centers on a tight shot of The Master.
THE MASTER
But this time, Doctor... you and your friends won't walk away so easily.
The Master snickers.
*****
THE MASTER
I'm sorry, I suppose I shouldn't laugh. It just seems so horribly amusing
that so many coincidences should be happening at once.
(sigh)
Oh well, I suppose it is to be expected... The Doctor seems to have
an aura conducive to improbabilities.
Gera shakes her head
GERA
Sir, tel-Varesh is dangerous. He should be neutralized at the earliest
possible moment. Between him and The Doctor they could easily disrupt all
our plans.
THE MASTER
The Doctor is who we should be worried about; the fool is merely a
nuisance. Yes, yes, I know you hold a grudge against him...
GERA
It's not just a grudge...
THE MASTER
Whatever... In the greater scheme of things he is entirely irrelevant.
The Doctor, on the other hand, is always a threat to watch for.
GERA
The Doctor isn't trying to kill you.
THE MASTER
Neither will the fool ever succeed.
The Communications Officer approaches Gera and The Master.
COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Sir! Madam! Terminus fighter craft are approaching to escort us in.
GERA
(to The Master)
General?
The Master squares his shoulders and faces the Communications Officer.
THE MASTER
(To Gera, smiling)
Commence operations, Captain.
As The Master & Gera prepare their attack, tel-Varesh discreetly shadows Nyssa and The Doctor. Oddly, he seems reluctant to approach them. The Doctor notices him and is very alarmed. Meanwhile, Ace's treatment is successful, and she is pronounced cured. Still, she needs a few medical check-ups, and Nyssa decides to take her for some tests in one of the labs "on level 19". The Doctor and Gairlek, on the other hand, corner tel-Varesh on level 18. They are just about to put him under arrest and take off his helmet when the whole station shakes with an explosion. The Master & Gera's plan is now being initiated: As Gera's assault carrier approaches Terminus under escort, it fires on the fighters, destroying them. Meanwhile, Fabio Baum and his team seize the control center. They seal off the lower sections of the station (where most of the crew, patients, and visitors are) and blow the hatches on levels 16-18 to bleed out the oxygen. As confusion and panic spread, Gera's mercenary troops materialize all over the station. Levels 1-15 are flooded with a cryogenic gas, putting most of the station population in suspended animation. While this is happening, Kal & Vik try as much as possible to stop Fabio but are unsuccessful; they flee toward one of the upper levels. On level 18, the sudden decompression catches everyone off-guard; in the confusion, tel-Varesh escapes, but not before saving The Doctor and Gairlek from being blown out into space. He eventually manages to link back up with Kal & Vik. Nyssa & Ace, too, escape. While The Master and Gera consolidate their hold on Terminus, The Doctor overhears The Master order one group of mercenaries to come with him and "secure the old bridge". The Doctor is alarmed; he and Gairlek head for the old bridge. "I know the way there." he tells a disbelieving Gairlek. Meanwhile, Nyssa and Ace run headlong into a group of the mercenaries, who are apparently looking for Nyssa. They are so intent on finding her that they take little notice of Ace, who escapes. The Mercenaries communicate to their superior.
MERCENARY #1
(to communicator)
Yes ma'am, we have her.
GERA
(over communicator)
Then escort her to the control center. The general wants her brought
to him.
As they are speaking, they are unaware that a black flightsuited figure is now slowly advancing on them. Nyssa suddenly notices tel-Varesh, but is unsure of what is happening until a single finger goes to his helmet, the universal sign of `keep quiet'.
MERCENARY #1
(to communicator)
Affirmative. We're on our way.
Mercenary #2 grabs Nyssa by the arm.
MERCENARY #2
Come on. The General wants a word with you.
Mercenary #2 hears a click, and turns to see tel-Varesh calmly pointing a gun at his head.
TEL-VARESH
What a coincidence. I want a word with you.
From a grating above Kal and Vik drop, each with their weapons trained on the two mercenaries.
VIK
Alright you two, drop them. NOW. Or you won't live to see next payday.
Suddenly outnumbered, the two mercenaries surrender.
TEL-VARESH
Vik, Kal -- search them, then tie them up.
Tel-Varesh holsters his gun, then turns to Nyssa.
TEL-VARESH
Are you alright, um, Administrator?
Nyssa looks at the three, unable to decide whether these new-found allies are trustworthy or not. Still, there seems something rather familiar about tel-Varesh...
NYSSA
Fine, I think.
(to Vik and Kal)
Who are you people? What is going on here?
VIK
We're friends, if you can believe that. Against a common enemy.
TEL-VARESH
Gera and her mercenaries have taken over most of your station, Administrator.
Decks one to fifteen have been flooded with cryo-gas, and sixteen to eighteen
have been spaced. They've shut down communications and are occupying the
control center.
NYSSA
What about my security force?
KAL
Dead or asleep, most of them. Gera bleeded out the oxygen on level
seventeen just as the take-over began.
TEL-VARESH
Your friend Gairlek escaped, though. I saw him running with The Doctor.
Nyssa looks at the three suspiciously, and at tel-Varesh more than just suspiciously.
NYSSA
That still doesn't explain who you are, or what you're doing here.
(to tel-Varesh)
Or why you've been spying on us.
TEL-VARESH
That, I'm afraid, is a very long... Nyssa, down!
As tel-Varesh pushes Nyssa to the side, an energy-weapon's shot comes from down the corridor, striking tel-Varesh squarely on the helmet. Kal and Vik jump to cover and return fire. There is a brief gunbattle between them and several mercenaries down the corridor, which ends with the mercenaries running away. The two captured mercenaries are hit. After the brief battle, Kal runs down the corridor momentarily in pursuit, while Vik goes to her captain, who is now on his hands and knees. Pieces of his helmet are lying before him. We still cannot, however, see his face.
VIK
Are you alright?
Tel-Varesh nods affirmative. Kal returns.
KAL
Well, that kills it! The Master has got to know we're here!
The mere mention of The Master suddenly alarms Nyssa. She has had enough surprises for one day and wants some answers.
NYSSA
The Master?!?! What does he have to do with this?
(to Kal)
Who are you people, and what is going on here?
Her back is to tel-Varesh, so she does not see him as he comes unsteadily to his feet. But as he speaks -- his voice now unmuffled and undisguised by the helmet mike -- she suddenly freezes. She knows that voice... as do we.
TEL-VARESH
He's after Terminus, Nyssa -- and probably you as well.
Nyssa slowly turns, not willing to believe. Tel-Varesh, meanwhile, is tipping his head forward and taking off the remains of his helmet. Once off, he stands erect, to reveal...
ADRIC
And unless we start cooperating now things are going to get a lot worse.
End episode, roll credits.
Episode Three
Named Utterances
"I am the utterance of my name... for if I am not spoken of, I am as
if dead."
-- Gnostic Texts verse
RECAP OF PREVIOUS EPISODE CLIFFHANGER:
SCENE: A Terminus corridor.
A brief gunbattle between Kal, Vik and several mercenaries down a corridor.
The mercenaries run away, with Kal in pursuit. Vik goes to her captain,
who was hit in the helmet by an energy blast. Pieces of his helmet are
lying before him. We do not see his face.
VIK
Are you alright?
Tel-Varesh nods affirmative. Kal returns.
KAL
Well, that kills it! The Master has got to know we're here!
NYSSA
The Master?!?! What does he have to do with this?
(to Kal)
Who are you people, and what is going on here?
Her back is to tel-Varesh, so she does not see him as he comes unsteadily to his feet. But as he speaks -- his voice now unmuffled and undisguised by the helmet mike -- she suddenly freezes. She knows that voice... as do we.
TEL-VARESH
He's after Terminus, Nyssa -- and probably you as well.
Nyssa slowly turns, not willing to believe. Tel-Varesh, meanwhile, is tipping his head forward and taking off the remains of his helmet. Once off, he stands erect, to reveal...
ADRIC
And unless we start cooperating now things are going to get a lot worse.
*****
Adric looks very different from when we last saw him -- older, but cold, impassive, stone-faced. An old scar runs across one side of his face, and his hair is cut almost military-short. He rarely shows emotion. When he talks, it is always in a controlled, emotionless, business-like manner. Something has happened to him, something very, very, disturbing...
Nyssa looks at him in shocked disbelief.
NYSSA
A...Adric? W...what... I mean, how...?
Adric looks at her as if that were the last question he wanted to answer. Instead he tosses the destroyed helmet aside and walks over to the mercenary prisoners. He ignores her question.
ADRIC
Not now. Too long a story, too little time.
He bends to examine one of the prisoners, Mercenary #2, then looks up toward Kal and Vik, who have been watching the reunion unsure as to what to do.
ADRIC
(to Vik)
Are you carrying any kayzine with you?
VIK
Some, yes.
Adric points to the prisoner.
ADRIC
Wake him.
Vik produces a small cylinder, which she presses against the captive's neck. There is a hissing sound, and the prisoner begins to wake. After a moment's grogginess, he opens his eyes on Adric -- and immediately panics.
MERCENARY #2
Y...y...YOU!!
VIK
Good, you're acquainted. Saves us the trouble of introductions.
Nyssa watches the interrogation with increasing astonishment. The Mercenary looks long and fearfully at Adric.
MERCENARY #2
But... you're suppose to be dead!
Adric pulls his gun and non-chalantly aims it in the mercenary's general direction.
ADRIC
Horrible rumor. You should never believe everything people tell you.
(pause)
I have some questions to ask you...
The mercenary suddenly turns very resolute.
MERCENARY #2
You won't get anything out of me.
Adric gives him a long, cold stare.
ADRIC
Are you quite certain of that?
The mercenary slowly nods, but it is obvious he is not as sure of himself as he wants them to think. Adric continues the cold stare.
ADRIC
Vik, break his arm.
Nyssa's eyes go wide. Vik casually examines their captive, as if trying to decide something.
VIK
Which one, left or right?
ADRIC
(pause, considering)
Surprise me.
Nyssa's mouth drops. As Vik calmly bends down to grab one of the mercenary's arms, the prisoner's fear overwhelms him.
MERCENARY #2
Ok, ok, I'll talk! Just... just don't break anything, please.
ADRIC
Depends on what you tell me. Where is The Master?
MERCENARY #2
(looking confused)
Who?
KAL
Nasty man. Black hair, black beard, black attitude. You can't miss
him.
MERCENARY #2
You mean General Vork?
ADRIC
Is that what he's calling himself today? Alright then, where is 'General
Vork'?
MERCENARY #2
He was on the ship last I saw, but we were suppose to bring her (pointing
at Nyssa) to the control center. He... he might be there now.
ADRIC
What do he and Gera want with Terminus?
MERCENARY #2
I don't know... Honest, I don't! Except... I overheard The General
order some of the men to look for something called 'the old bridge', and
then something about a contract with BioGen...
Nyssa bristles at the mention of BioGen, but says nothing. Adric notices this, but continues with the interrogation.
ADRIC
What about this 'old bridge'? Why does he want it found?
The mercenary looks helplessly among the four.
MERCENARY #2
I... I don't know. He only sent the elite squads to look for it...
Honest! I...I...I... can't tell you!
Adric leans back, considering. Then, after a questioning look from Vik, nods his head. Vik produces the cylinder again and injects the prisoner, who immediately goes unconscious. Adric stands and reaches for his communicator. Nyssa, however, looks at her old friend in bewildered shock.
NYSSA
(quietly)
What happened to you?
ADRIC
Trust me, you're better off not knowing.
(to communicator)
SELDON, are you there?
There is the hiss of static.
KAL
Sounds like jamming. He's onto us now.
ADRIC
He's playing with us.
(hurriedly, to Nyssa)
What's the fastest way to the bulkhead?
NYSSA
(pointing)
Up that way.
Adric, Kal, and Vik all begin heading in that direction. Nyssa, though, seems reluctant to follow them; this has been too much in too short a time.
ADRIC
Come on, then.
NYSSA
No, not until you tell me what is going on here.
From behind them, in the direction the fleeing mercenaries had gone, comes the distant sound of shouts and a large number of soldiers approaching. Adric shrugs and turns to follow his crewmates.
ADRIC
Suit yourself.
Nyssa watches, dumbfounded, but decides to follow them anyway.
NYSSA
Wait!!
ADRIC
Hurry up, then!
The Doctor & Gairlek reach the old bridge before the mercenaries do. Along the way, The Doctor figures out -- from things he overhears -- that what The Master is after are some "circuits" (several reddish-pink crystals) left in the control system of the ancient ship. He finds them with ease, does some quick fiddling around with the controls, and manages to escape just as The Master enters. The Master is furious and orders the mercenaries to capture them. Meanwhile, Ace is fumbling around trying to avoid being captured. In typical Ace fashion, she liberates a few grenades, then stumbles into a deserted lab. She sees the chemicals and smiles... Elsewhere, Gera arrives at the spot where Nyssa was freed by Adric and friends. She decides to take command of the situation and personally takes command of the search for the four.
SCENE: A Terminus corridor.
Vik, Kal, Adric/tel-Varesh, and Nyssa are cautiously moving down a corridor, with Adric at the point (front). Curiously, Adric seems to find Nyssa's presence uncomfortable. As they are moving, Vik approaches her captain.
VIK
(to Adric, slightly amused)
"Adric"?!? That's your real name? You never told us...
ADRIC
(annoyed)
You never asked.
Adric stops and knocks against the wall; it reverberates strangely, as if it where the hull of a ship. The others stop as well, Vik next to Adric, Kal next to Nyssa. Adric takes his communicator.
ADRIC
Here. This should do.
(to communicator)
SELDON, are you there?
SELDON
(from communicator, heavy static)
Affirmative.
ADRIC
I need you to scan Terminus and surrounding space-time for the following:
The location of any space-time vessels; the location, type and strength
of any military vessels; estimated troop strength and current disposition...
Adric's voice trails off as the camera focuses on Nyssa, who is leaning against a bulkhead, still dazed and bewildered by the re-appearance of Adric. She stares at him in amazement.
NYSSA
(to Kal)
Who is he talking to?
KAL
SELDON... our ship's A-Life.
NYSSA
Your ship?
KAL
The Blue Star Twice. Oh, I forgot... we docked under the name
Dublin
Again.
NYSSA
(smirk)
Do you always use an alias wherever you go?
KAL
Usually. We're not exactly liked in some parts.
(pause)
You knew him from before, didn't you? A long time ago?
NYSSA
I suppose you could say that. It's been at least a dozen years, though.
(shaking head)
But he was never like this.
(pause)
How long have you known him?
KAL
Six years. He saved me from one of The Master's botched operations,
and we've been together ever since. Vik's been with us almost as long...
Nyssa stares at Adric as he coldly discusses the situation with Vik and SELDON.
NYSSA
(quietly)
I can't believe it... It's almost as if he were another person.
KAL
Well, he's been like this ever since I've known him... worse when The
Masters around.
NYSSA
What... what does The Master have to do with him? Or rather, what does
he have to do with The Master?
KAL
Good question. I wish I knew the answer. All I know is he won't ever
rest until The Master is gone... and I mean that quite literally.
NYSSA
Gone?
KAL
Dead. Deceased. Deactivated. Whatever euphemism you wish to apply.
Adric and Vik approach Nyssa and Kal, interrupting their conversation. Adric is aware they were talking about him and is not thrilled, but only glares at Kal.
The four discuss their options. However, the sudden arrival of armed mercenaries puts them to flight once more. Meanwhile, The Doctor and Gairlek are captured. The Master orders The Doctor frisked. The frisking mercenaries find a variety of odd miscellaneous objects (including an old bag of jelly babies, to which The Doctor comments "Oh, I'd forgotten about those..."), but do not find the crystals. The Doctor and The Master trade vapish barbs; at one point, The Master comments that The Doctor and Gairlek were being escorted "for their own safety", a statement which The Doctor describes as "cognitive dissonance". Back in the corridors, Adric, Kal, Vik, and Nyssa are in a running gun battle, trying desperately to escape. However, they run head-long into Gera and her team. A brief battle erupts; Nyssa is captured, but Vik escapes. Adric and Kal are pinned down. Gera decides to use Nyssa as a hostage.
Adric glances around him and realizes they are outnumbered. He stands, bringing his weapon slowly down. As he does so, he turns to where Kal is hidden.
ADRIC
Come out, Kal. Not today.
Kal rises slowly from his hiding spot, but his gun is still drawn. Several of Gera's mercenaries immediately train their guns on him.
KAL
But...
ADRIC
(very forcefully)
Drop it. Now. We'll only get ourselves killed.
To emphasize his point, Adric drops his gun and calmly puts his hands on his head. Kal reluctantly does the same. Gera brings her gun back down from Nyssa's head and pushes her toward the others. Adric gives Gera an icy-cold stare as he is quickly frisked by her mercenaries. Gera, however, merely chuckles as she walks triumphantly toward her prisoners.
GERA
(to Adric)
Well, well, well... You again, in the way and underfoot as usual.
Nyssa's eyebrows arc as she realizes these two know each other. But then she gulps as she recognizes the electronic collar-like things one of the mercenaries is about to put on each of them. Kal, too, is uncomfortable. Adric acknowledges the objects coldly.
KAL
Captain, these look like...
ADRIC
I know. Do as she says.
GERA
(to her soldiers, pointing to Adric)
Watch that one carefully, and ignore anything he says. He may be a
fool, but he's a dangerous fool.
Adric looks Gera over from head to foot, as if gauging her.
ADRIC
(tauntingly)
How's the leg, Gera? Found a working replacement yet?
Gera's face turns immediately red, but with supreme effort keeps herself under control. Instead, she stomps off. The three are now escorted down the corridor with guns trained on them.
KAL
(whispering)
Was that really necessary?
ADRIC
She didn't hit me. That means she's under orders, which means The Master.
(to Nyssa)
Whatever happens, don't try to interfere. You'll only get yourself
hurt. Trust me on this.
NYSSA
If you'd tell me what this is all about, I might trust you more.
Adric stays stone-faced.
CUT TO: A Terminus corridor.
Ace is moving very carefully, trying not to attract the attention of
several mercenaries standing guard just down the hall. She is carrying
her backpack, with a couple of her special silver canisters peaking out.
One is in her hand. She is about to arm and throw when a hand reaches out
from behind, covers her mouth, and forces her into a side corridor. As
Ace squirms, she finds that her captor is Vik. The older woman puts a finger
to her mouth.
VIK
(whispering)
Be quiet, will you? Do you want them to capture us as well?
ACE
(quieting down)
You! I thought you'd been captured!
(she gestures toward the corridor)
I saw them bring The Doctor in there.
VIK
What? He's got The Doctor now, too?
ACE
I think so.
Vik takes her gun away from Ace, but keeps it drawn. She discreetly looks down the corridor, then back at Ace, considering.
VIK
I suppose you could be one of The Master's tricks, but I doubt it.
ACE
The Master?! He's here?! He's got The Doctor?
VIK
Yes, as well as several friends of mine.
(looking at Ace's knapsack)
What in the worlds are you carrying?
ACE
Just a few surprises for those soldiers out there. Nitro-nine, mostly.
Vik's eyes go wide open.
VIK
Explosives? Anything else?
ACE
A smoke bomb or two. Why?
Vik contemplates this news, and a plan begins to form in her head. She reaches a decision.
VIK
An idea, maybe.
(to Ace)
If we're going to get our friends out of this, we'll have to work together.
Understand?
Ace looks at her dubiously; she doesn't like being ordered, but decides that, under the circumstances, it might be better to trust Vik.
ACE
Alright, I suppose. What do you have in mind?
CUT TO: Terminus Control Center.
A large number of mercenaries are present, a few of which have their
guns trained on The Doctor and Gairlek. The Master is waving some circuit
boards and continuing to gloat.
THE MASTER
Now, Doctor. Did you really think I wouldn't notice what you'd done
to the original computer?
THE DOCTOR
It was worth a shot, I suppose. Anything to keep your megalomaniac
hands off those circuits.
THE MASTER
And yet you still refuse to tell me where you've hidden them?
(pointing towards Gairlek)
You know, I could force it out of you any number of ways.
GAIRLEK
(looking defiant)
Hell you could. I'd die before...
The Doctor shakes his head. He's in a bad position and knows it.
THE DOCTOR
That's probably what he means, Gairlek. He'll try to kill you to get
me to talk. It's an old, tired trick of his.
THE MASTER
(smiling)
But it works, so why change it? Especially with someone as annoyingly
principled as you are, Doctor.
GAIRLEK
(to The Doctor)
Don't worry about me, Doctor. I'm not afraid of him.
THE MASTER
(laughing uproariously)
Actually, my dear friend, you're far too suicidal for that idea to
work properly. No, for The Doctor to really talk I'd need someone with
more of a hold on him than you.
(he hears footsteps enter the room)
Ah. And if I'm not mistaken, the perfect targets have just arrived.
A large number of armed soldiers, led by Gera, escort Nyssa, Kal, and Adric into the room. There are more guns pointed at Adric than either of the others. As he enters the room, the Doctor does something of a doubletake, then glances questioningly at Nyssa, who gives him a 'don't look at me; I haven't the faintest idea' shrug. Adric, however, only gives The Doctor a brief glance before focusing his eyes squarely on The Master, where they stay fixed most of the time. He still seems cold and emotionless, but there is now a hint of determination and defiance. He looks at The Master with barely controlled hate. The Master, however, seems even more amused than he was before. The Master strolls toward his prisoners.
THE MASTER
Ah, yes. Once more, where would The Doctor be without his companions?
(to The Doctor)
You know, you can be quite careless where you leave your charges, Doctor.
Quite careless.
(to Adric)
You never know just who might find them.
Nyssa's eyes dart between The Master and Adric; suddenly, all the pieces fall into place. She looks sickened by the revelation. The Doctor, too, immediately understands. Adric's expression remains unchanged. The Master continues.
THE MASTER
(to The Doctor)
Earlier you were talking about 'cognitive dissonance', Doctor. Well,
I have an example for you.
(pointing at Adric)
This... "fool"... wants to kill me. Very much so, as I understand.
He almost succeeded twice.
ADRIC
Three times.
THE MASTER
(chuckling, to Adric)
Oh yes, you're quite right. I do stand corrected.
(to The Doctor)
Three close attempts on my life.
(shaking his head in mock exasperation)
My, my... Such ingratitude for saving his life...
ADRIC
(quiet, cold, mocking)
You should have left me where I was. You might even sleep better.
The Master snickers and returns to where The Doctor and Gairlek are being held.
THE MASTER
So, Doctor. There you have it. Either tell me where the circuits are
or your long lost friend over there will be even more long lost.
ADRIC
Don't tell him anything, Doctor. There's nothing he can do to me.
The Master turns once more toward Adric. He is enjoying this sadistic entertainment immensely. The Doctor, meanwhile, is having difficulty trying to decide between two very undesirable options. The Master knows this, and continues the mental torture.
THE MASTER
You really think you can defy me, can't you? Even after everything?
ADRIC
I never stopped defying you. The day I do is the day one of us is dead.
The Master produces a small instrument, the control unit for the collars now attached to Kal, Adric, and Nyssa. Kal and Nyssa bristle at the sight, but each brace themselves; they too are trying to look defiant.
THE MASTER
Have you reached a decision yet, Doctor? I'm warning you, my patience
is near an end.
ADRIC
Don't do it, Doctor. He can't do anything to me I haven't already survived.
THE MASTER
(snickering)
Really? Are you quite certain? Remember, I broke you once, fool. I
know more about you than probably you even know about yourself. I could
destroy you anytime I want.
ADRIC
(defiantly)
Then go ahead. Finish the job. Do us both a favor.
THE DOCTOR
All right, Master. You've made your point. I'll tell you where the
wretched things are.
THE MASTER
(to The Doctor)
That's very kind of you, Doctor.
(turning back to Adric)
But it seems I still have a point yet to be made.
Everyone watches helplessly as The Master approaches Adric again. Adric still looks cold and defiant.
THE MASTER
You've managed to make quite an annoyance of yourself, fool. I don't
take kindly to being shot at wherever I go.
ADRIC
I don't take kindly to mindprobes, or people who use them. Whatever
you're going to do, get it over with. You're not going to impress anyone
here with your little games.
THE MASTER
Who said anything about impressing?
The Master pushes some buttons on his controller. Adric begins to tremble and grimace in obvious pain. Still, he stands defiant, willing himself not to scream.
THE MASTER
Dear me, you have grown. I used to have you screaming long before this.
(he glances toward Kal and Nyssa)
Still, there are other ways to deal with you. In your own twisted way
you're almost like The Doctor.
NYSSA
(teeth clenched, very angry)
You're the twisted one. Haven't you done enough to him?
THE MASTER
No, actually.
The Master operates his controller. Kal and Nyssa go immediately stiff. The Doctor steps forward, but armed guards stop him.
THE MASTER
Watch your friends die, Adric. No, better yet.
(he turns a dial all the way up)
Kill them yourself. Start with her. Watch every detail...
Adric is obviously trying to fight the controller, but despite his efforts one hand begins to slowly reach for Nyssa's neck. There is fear and horror in both their faces. Adric's hand draws closer, and closer, and closer as we...
End episode, roll credits.
Episode Four
Nasty Epitaphs
"O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?"
-- 1st Corinthians 15:55
RECAP OF PREVIOUS EPISODE CLIFFHANGER:
THE MASTER
Dear me, you have grown. I used to have you screaming long before this.
(he glances toward Kal and Nyssa)
Still, there are other ways to deal with you. In your own twisted way
you're almost like The Doctor.
NYSSA
(teeth clenched, very angry)
You're the twisted one. Haven't you done enough to him?
THE MASTER
No, actually.
The Master operates his controller. Kal and Nyssa go immediately stiff. The Doctor steps forward, but armed guards stop him.
THE MASTER
Watch your friends die, Adric. No, better yet.
(he turns a dial all the way up)
Kill them yourself. Start with her. Watch every detail...
Adric is obviously trying to fight the controller, but despite his efforts one hand begins to slowly reach for Nyssa's neck. There is fear and horror in both their faces...
*****
The Doctor breaks free of his guards and interrupts.
THE DOCTOR
All right, you've proved your point! Let them go!
THE MASTER
Typical, Doctor. Just when it was getting interesting.
THE DOCTOR
(very, very angry)
If you harm any of them, I swear you'll never get anything out of me.
THE MASTER
(sighing)
I suppose you're right. Business before pleasure always.
The Master turns the controller off. Kal and Nyssa go limp, but Adric collapses to the ground. As Kal and Nyssa go to his side, Adric looks up toward The Master, murder in his eyes and perhaps mouthing a curse in his direction. The Master scarcely notices. Instead, he strolls toward The Doctor.
THE MASTER
Well, Doctor, where are they?
THE DOCTOR
Take those abominations off of them, first.
THE MASTER
And release my hold over you? Come, Doctor. You know me better than
that.
As The Master and The Doctor are talking, Vik enters wearing a stolen mercenary uniform and trying to stay out of Gera's sight. She bristles at The Master, but slowly makes her way toward the captives. Adric, trying to get his strength back, notices her. So do Kal and Nyssa. Vik's eyes glance toward a section of wall near the three; Adric nods minutely in understanding. The Master and The Doctor, meanwhile, continue.
THE DOCTOR
I know you too well... unfortunately. If I give you the circuits, those
three are as good as dead.
THE MASTER
Dead? No, I hardly think so, Doctor. They're more useful to me alive...
but only if you give me what I want.
THE DOCTOR
(gesturing at the number of armed individuals gathered around)
None of us are going anywhere. You've got me, and you've got them.
What more could you want?
THE MASTER
(pause, thinking)
The universe, for one. Those circuits, for a start.
(indicating the collar control unit)
I admit I'd prefer to take certain individuals alive, Doctor, but they
aren't as necessary as the circuits you possess.
THE DOCTOR
(quizzically)
What is your interest in Terminus, anyway?
THE MASTER
Nothing more than a little business deal, I assure you. Some interested
parties were not especially happy to lose so much on their investment,
so I merely offered them a chance to balance the books. I believe the proper
financial term is 'hostile takeover'?
THE DOCTOR
Magnanimous and altruistic gestures? How unlike you.
THE MASTER
I admit I had other reasons for going along... the most important of
which you are trying rather hard to delay. I'm growing tired of this, Doctor,
so I'll ask you one last time: Where are the circuits, or do I have to
resume disciplinary proceedings?
The Doctor looks across toward the three captives. Adric is once more stone-faced, eyes fixed on The Master; Kal and Nyssa are still defiant. All three obviously do not want to give-in to The Master. He seems to reach a decision. Vik, meanwhile, has wormed her way toward the captives.
THE DOCTOR
I'll take you to them... No, I can't just tell you. They're hidden
too well; you'd never find them for days.
The Master considers, then hands the control unit to Gera. Several armed mercenaries gather behind The Doctor, guns aimed.
THE MASTER
Very well then, Doctor. Lead on. But I'm warning you, any tricks and
your friends receive an instant lobotomy.
(to Gera)
If you don't hear from us in thirty minutes, execute that one (indicating
Kal), then the others every fifteen minutes. Save the fool for last.
Gera nods and fingers the control unit. Vik gives Gera a cold, hard stare and fingers her weapon. The Master motions for The Doctor to begin leading.
THE MASTER
After you, Doctor. I insist.
Just as The Doctor is about to leave with The Master, there is a sudden explosion; one section of the wall, the one Vik indicated, blows apart. As this occurs, a number of events happen more or less at once: Adric and Kal attack their surprised guards, taking weapons; Nyssa wisely dives for cover; Vik first releases Ace's smoke bomb, then rapidly fires at Gera -- one shot hitting the control unit and destroying it, another hitting one of her legs, which explodes in a shower of sparks. Gera goes down; Gairlek, too, attacks a guard and liberates a weapon, pushing The Doctor to cover in the process; from the hole in the wall emerges Ace and a half-dozen or so red-shirts in Terminus Security uniforms, providing cover fire and protecting the escape route. All hell breaks loose; an intense gun-battle now rages in the control center. Seeing their chance, Kal and Nyssa make for the opening, covered by Vik; as soon as they are under protection, they remove the mind-control collars. Adric, however, catches a glimpse of The Master trying to run away and charges him, intent on murder. The Master notices Adric too late; he freezes as the Alzarian brings gun to bear and pulls the trigger. There is a click, but nothing happens -- the gun has jammed. The Master escapes; Adric is furious as he dives for cover. Much to his surprise, Adric finds himself behind the same piece of protection as The Doctor and Gairlek. Adric takes one look at The Doctor and shakes his head.
ADRIC
(to himself)
Figures...
THE DOCTOR
(quizzically)
You don't seem very pleased to see me.
As Adric removes his collar, Gairlek hands him another weapon. Adric gives it a quick look-over as he speaks.
ADRIC
(semi-apologetically)
Sorry, Doctor. I'd say hello, but it's been a rotten day.
Adric peaks over the protection, fires a few shots, then brings his head back down.
ADRIC
(to The Doctor)
Right... On the count of three, run for the opening... Don't argue,
just do it! Gairlek?
GAIRLEK
With you.
ADRIC
Fine...
(taking quick breaths)
One, two, three...
At the count of three, Adric and Gairlek stand up and fire, while The Doctor runs for the opening. Once The Doctor is on his way, first Gairlek then Adric begin to withdraw toward the hole, firing the entire time. The others are now in the hole, some firing cover; a few of the Terminus Security personnel have fallen. The Doctor arrives first, with Gairlek and Adric just behind. Behind the hole is a dark corridor.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
The Doctor, Ace, Nyssa, Gairlek, and several surviving security personnel
are just down the corridor. Kal and Vik are just behind the hole, firing
their weapons.
ACE
Perfessor, are you alright?
THE DOCTOR
I'm fine, Ace. Good timing.
ACE
It wasn't my idea...
Ace indicates Vik, who is busy providing cover fire just as Adric bounds in.
VIK
(to Adric)
Sorry I took so long, sir; I had trouble finding an army for rent.
ADRIC
Better late than never.
(explosion above their heads)
Let's get out of here!
Adric and Kal take up the rear as everyone withdraws, firing back down the corridor to discourage pursuit. Much to Adric's surprise, they find Nyssa waiting for them just before a juncture. As they run past she activates some controls on the wall; two doors descend, one far along behind, the other just behind them. Nyssa activates some other controls, and a hissing noise can be heard.
KAL
(quizzically)
What are you doing?
NYSSA
Cycling the air out of that section. There, that should hold any pursuit
back.
ADRIC
(panting, out of breath)
Good thinking.
(pause)
Where are the others?
NYSSA
(indicating one side corridor)
That way.
(to Adric)
Did you...?
ADRIC
(shaking head, still angry)
No... The Bastard got away again.
Nyssa looks at Adric, as if unsure about his mental state. Adric notices but ignores the look. The three make their way to the others.
ACE
Where are we?
GAIRLEK
Robotic maintenance corridor. Haven't been used in years, at least
since we got rid of the robots and started doing our own maintenance.
THE DOCTOR
Do those idiots back there know about these?
GAIRLEK
If they didn't they do now. It won't be long before this area is flooded
with troops.
Adric enters, gun still drawn. He makes his way toward The Doctor.
ADRIC
All right, Doctor. Where are they?
The Doctor is taken aback by Adric's tone; like Nyssa, he finds the change in his friend more than a little alarming.
THE DOCTOR
Where's what?
ADRIC
The circuits, or whatever it is The Master's after.
THE DOCTOR
Oh... those.
The Doctor thinks it over for a moment, then lifts his hat. Inside are three small reddish-pink crystals of varying shapes. The only ones who do not look surprised are Adric, Nyssa, and Ace.
KAL
You mean you had them the entire time?!?!
THE DOCTOR
I had to string The Master along somehow. It wouldn't have done any
good to give-in immediately.
Adric picks up one crystal and examines it.
ACE
What are they?
ADRIC
(grimly)
Hyper-dimensional circuits for a dematerialization system. The Master
has been trying to repair his TARDIS for some time.
NYSSA
(suddenly very angry)
Is that what this has been all about? Repairing his ship?
ADRIC
Pretty much...
THE DOCTOR
It can't be everything. There must be something else in there he wants.
(pause, thinking)
You say he's been trying to repair his TARDIS?
VIK
(nodding)
The transcendental-dimensional matrix on his ship is deteriorating
-- rapidly. Unless he can make repairs soon, his TARDIS will simply break
apart.
ADRIC
Uh huh. And he's managed to make himself so unpopular he can't get
the materials he needs to make the repairs -- which is how we've been looking
for him. There are only a few places where he can obtain spare parts, and
we've been keeping an eye on them all.
(pause)
None of us knew about this place, though...
(another pause, closely examining crystal)
I think these are of Sarlin manufacture, Doctor.
The Doctor closely examines one crystal.
THE DOCTOR
I think you're right. I can't be certain, though. I've never seen a
genuine Sarlin artifact outside of the museum on Gallifrey.
VIK
Sarlin?
THE DOCTOR
The Sarlin are -- or rather, were -- a race of trans-dimensional privateers,
who used to jump from one universe to the other in search of easy prey
and quick profits. Mind you, they haven't been seen or heard from in aeons.
ACE
But what would these things be doing on Terminus?
NYSSA
(examining third crystal)
Because we're standing in a Sarlin artifact, aren't we? That's how
the original crew tried to pilot the ship through space-time?
THE DOCTOR
Probably. Wish the Garm was still here; he might have told us a lot
more.
ADRIC
Whatever The Master is after, these circuits are the key. We have to
find out what's built into their memories.
(to Nyssa & Gairlek)
Is there any way of reaching the docking level without going through
the cryo-gas?
NYSSA
No, there isn't. Not unless you want to crawl outside. Why, do you
want to get your ship?
ADRIC
(indicating crystal)
SELDON could decipher these. Encryption decoding is one of his specialties.
GAIRLEK
Wouldn't it be safer to just destroy them?
THE DOCTOR
(holding one crystal)
They're made of solid crystalline Carbon-96. You'd need a plasma torch
to even scratch one.
ADRIC
Which we also have on the ship.
THE DOCTOR
(pause, considering)
You know, we could try the TARDIS. I'm sure the console computer could
do the job just as well.
ADRIC
(pause, thinking it over)
And if not, I can link SELDON over through the space-time vortex. Very
well, then. The TARDIS it is.
NYSSA
And after that?
Adric hefts his weapon.
ADRIC
(grim-faced)
After that, we retake your station.
Adric turns away from the group. Some of the others, including Nyssa and The Doctor, stare at him. Gairlek turns to Nyssa, obviously impressed.
GAIRLEK
(whispering, watching Adric)
You never told me you knew Captain tel-Varesh, Administrator!
Nyssa and The Doctor exchange quick looks.
NYSSA
(shaking head)
I'm beginning to wonder if I ever did.
The Master orders Gera to find The Doctor's TARDIS and send troops to surround it. "We are falling behind schedule... it is only a matter of time before the authorities realize that this station isn't responding."
SCENE: Interior, the TARDIS control room.
The Doctor, Adric, and the others enter the TARDIS control room. As he enters, Adric freezes, then slowly proceeds toward the control console.
ADRIC
I see your taste in decor hasn't changed.
THE DOCTOR
Yes, well... The old girl likes to keep things the way they are...
or rather were...
(to himself)
Come to think of it, I think your room is still somewhere about...
Adric gives The Doctor a quick glare before turning his attention to the console. He looks a little confused (the console has changed a few times since Adric left the TARDIS).
THE DOCTOR
Oh, I'm sorry...
(pointing)
It's over there now.
Adric goes to where The Doctor has pointed. He begins to tap on the controls. The Doctor joins him there.
ADRIC
You're still using the A.S.-three, I see.
THE DOCTOR
Why not? It still works... Oh, be careful with that; it's still rather
sensitive.
ADRIC
(frowning)
What? No M-S interface? You upgraded the whole console and you STILL
haven't installed an M-S interface?
THE DOCTOR
Well, yes... but as I recall, you were the one who burned it out.
ADRIC
Yes, but I did repair it... remember?
THE DOCTOR
You did?
ADRIC
You kept complaining about the power surges.
THE DOCTOR
(thinking)
Oh yes... I do seem to recall that... I'm sorry, I never seemed to
have gotten around to re-installing...
While Adric and The Doctor's talk degenerates into technical gibberish, the others look in varying degrees of amusement - except for Nyssa, who looks rather depressed.
VIK
(shaking head)
I always wondered where he got it from...
(to Nyssa)
How did you ever manage to survive those two?
NYSSA
With teeth firmly clenched, mostly.
(sighing)
He never talked about us, did he?
Kal and Vik glance briefly at each other.
KAL
A little bit... in bits and pieces, mostly. He never mentioned you,
though, and what I know about The Doctor comes mostly from SELDON.
(pause)
He doesn't like to talk about his past.
NYSSA
Ever?
KAL
Ever.
NYSSA
(to herself, quietly)
Oh...
VIK
(pause)
I asked him about it once, you know.
NYSSA
And what did he say?
VIK
(smirk)
He told me the past was dead, and nothing could change it.
(shaking head)
None of us ever asked again.
KAL
As I said... he avoids his past whenever he can.
Nyssa looks even more depressed. She shakes her head and sighs.
NYSSA
(quietly)
I can't say I blame him.
(to herself)
Some friends we turned out to be...
The Doctor and Adric continue to work at the console. A small pedestal has lifted from the console, and one of the crystals sits on it. The instrument they are working with is humming; at one point the humming fades out, as if the instrument were losing power. Without hesitating (and, without thinking about it), both The Doctor and Adric give the console simultaneous kicks. The instrument goes back to its previous humming. The Doctor and Adric go on as if nothing happened.
ADRIC
No good. I need that interface if I'm going to break through that jamming.
THE DOCTOR
I don't suppose you remember where you left it?
ADRIC
(thinking)
The cupboard?
THE DOCTOR
Wait a minute... I'll check.
The Doctor goes off to one side of the console room and opens a door, revealing a room full of various electronic gear. He enters.
THE DOCTOR
Now, if I were an M-S interface...
From inside the room there is a loud crash.
THE DOCTOR
(shouting from room)
Um... could someone please be so kind as to give me a hand?
Nyssa, Ace, Gairlek, Kal, and Vik each give the other a quick glance. Everyone except Nyssa moves toward the door; Nyssa stays behind.
VIK
(to Nyssa)
Are you certain they're not related?
While the others go to help The Doctor, Nyssa gives Adric (who is still working on the console) a long and hard look. She gulps and seems to make a decision, then cautiously approaches him. She is very hesitant, but finally gathers her courage; she has to know.
NYSSA
Adric... h-h-how... how long did he have you?
Adric stops his work but does not look at her. Instead, he seems to struggle with himself, trying to decide if he should answer; she is asking about something he has tried very hard not to think about. Finally, he sighs.
ADRIC
(quiet, emotionless)
Two years... maybe three. I don't know, I lost track after awhile.
Nyssa looks pained; she obviously feels guilty in part for what has happened to her friend. From the cupboard, trying not to look obvious, The Doctor and the others too are listening. Adric continues to stare at the console.
NYSSA
(very quietly)
W...why?
ADRIC
(shrug)
A potential pawn against The Doctor... organic calculator for a decrepit
TARDIS... spare body for whenever his regeneration fails... take your pick.
NYSSA
(slowly shaking head)
We never knew. None of us did. We... we thought you'd... you'd... We
thought there was no way you could have survived.
ADRIC
I know what you thought. It might have been better if I hadn't. That
still doesn't change things.
NYSSA
We'd have come after you if we knew... You have to believe that. Is...
is that why you never said anything? Because you blame us?
Adric seems to ignore the question; instead, he resumes working. Vik, who has been watching the exchange, goes to Nyssa and silently indicates that it might be best to leave the question alone. But as Nyssa regretfully begins to step away, Adric speaks up.
ADRIC
(quietly)
I don't blame you. I don't blame any of you. It happened, and that's
all there is to it.
(he lifts his head and faces Nyssa)
All I ask is that you do not interfere. This is something I have to
see through to the end... no matter what it takes.
The Master & Gera move to take the TARDIS. Meanwhile, back in the TARDIS, Adric has succeeded in patching SELDON to the console computer.
The Doctor and Adric are hunched over the control console. The others are gathered around. One of the crystals is sitting on the pedestal. Above everyone's head, the screen displays an analysis of the crystal.
THE DOCTOR
It appears our friends the Sarlini were a lot more sophisticated than
I first thought.
(To Nyssa)
Did you know Terminus is a TARDIS?
NYSSA
(eyes wide)
WHAT?!?!
ADRIC
Makes sense... the laws of physics are constant: the Timelords can't
possibly be the only ones to discover its secrets.
THE DOCTOR
True... although I would point out that Terminus is not quite a Timelord
TARDIS, even though it operated under many of the same principals.
The Doctor taps a few buttons, and a computer display of Terminus appears.
THE DOCTOR
Notice how huge Terminus is in space. Did you ever wonder how something
that big could go through hyperspace?
GAIRLEK
We just assumed it used a lot of energy to move.
THE DOCTOR
Well, yes it did... in a way... but not the way you think. Here, let
me show you. In flight, this is how Terminus normally looked.
The Doctor taps a few more times on the console. The display of Terminus becomes a much smaller starship. Ace gets it immediately.
ACE
Its suppose to be transcendental dimensional... bigger on the inside
than on the outside.
THE DOCTOR
Exactly... only the transcendental dimensional system on Terminus shattered
when the original disaster occurred. When it finally dropped into our universe,
it couldn't maintain configuration... so it simply reverted to a normal
inter-dimensional ratio.
(he taps the console)
If it wasn't for the matrix on this ship, my TARDIS would probably
look much like Terminus.
ACE
So, does this mean Terminus could go anywhere, land anyplace, just
like a TARDIS?
THE DOCTOR
Well, not quite... First off, it's not a timeship -- just an inter-universal
ship. Second off, while the TARDIS can -- in theory, mind you -- change
its appearance to suit its environment, Terminus can only change its appearance
according to one of several pre-set configurations.
To emphasize, The Doctor taps some more on the console; the display changes to a number of different configurations -- all spaceships of varying kinds.
ADRIC
Most of those ship designs look more military than commercial.
THE DOCTOR
Quite. The Sarlini did not have a savory reputation.
GAIRLEK
So what are the other crystals for?
THE DOCTOR
Ah... well, that's the most intriguing.
The Doctor changes crystals.
THE DOCTOR
This crystal is apparently an energy sponge. It channels whatever energy
it can tap and uses that to power the ship.
KAL
What kind of energy?
THE DOCTOR
Whatever it can find... from stars, novas, galaxies... 3K background
radiation, neutrino decay, neutral hydrogen interactions... you name it,
it'll tap it.
NYSSA
Practically an endless source.
ADRIC
Mind you, with those figures... Terminus would have to use a lot more
energy than a TARDIS, wouldn't it?
THE DOCTOR
You're right, it's not nearly as efficient... If fully operational,
Terminus would require almost ten times more energy than the TARDIS...
VIK
And probably ten times less efficient to boot.
THE DOCTOR
Exactly.
The Doctor continues to explain the crystals. The third crystal is
a capacitor/dampener, designed to regulate the flow of energy from crystal
#2. It, however, is damaged -- an internal crack runs through it. Adric
is very interested in this...
Episode Five
Death's Likeness
"This is no life, alas, that I do lead;
It is but death as in Life's likeness,
Endless sorrow assured out of dread,
Past all despair and out of all gladness.
Thus well I know I am remedyless,
For me nothing may comfort nor amend
'Til death come forth and make of me an end."
-- Anonymous, late 15th century
The Doctor and Adric figure out The Master's plan -- to slave Terminus as part of The Master's TARDIS, giving him a larger ship, a repaired power source, and an army of slaves to boot. The Doctor, Ace, Adric, and Nyssa work together to try to stop The Master; Nyssa comes up with a scheme to retake Terminus station, which eventually succeeds. The Doctor, meanwhile, confronts The Master. "What did you do to him?" The Doctor demands, to which The Master replies sardonically "Gave him a reason to live?" The Master manages to get a hold of the crystals. With Terminus no longer in his control, he decides to "cut his losses" and escape, using a mind-controlled Gairlek as a hostage. In the process of his escape, he manages to lock The Doctor, Ace, Nyssa and Adric into Nyssa's office.
Adric pulls his gun while Ace and The Doctor examine the lock; there is a crazed look on his face.
ACE
He's jammed it!
THE DOCTOR
Let me try...
The Doctor starts to bend over to examine the control panel to the lock, but as he does so Adric steps behind him.
ADRIC
(from behind The Doctor)
Stand back! He's mine!
Ace turns around; her eyes go wide as she sees Adric aiming his gun in their direction. She pulls The Doctor away just as Adric fires at the control panel. It erupts in a shower of sparks, then the doors slowly slide open.
THE DOCTOR
(to himself)
Well, I suppose that's one way of doing it...
As he says this, Adric pushes the two of them aside and runs into the corridor beyond. From down the corridor he hears the sound of a weapon discharging and a man (Gairlek) screaming.
NYSSA
That was Gairlek!
Adric turns toward the direction of the scream and runs in pursuit. The others follow. However, while none of the others are looking (and, perhaps, so quickly we might not even notice), The Doctor quickly grabs a small blaster left by one of the fallen security personnel.
CUT TO: Terminus Control Center.
Gairlek's body, shrunken by the Master's favorite weapon, lies in the
middle of the floor. Adric runs into the control center, his gun drawn.
Nyssa, The Doctor, and Ace all follow far behind him. Nyssa gasps when
she sees the body of Gairlek. The Master's voice booms from his TARDIS,
highly amused. The first groans of de-materialization can be heard.
THE MASTER
(Laughing)
Too late, fool! Better luck next time!
ADRIC
Yaro!!!
As The Master's TARDIS de-materializes, Adric shoots his gun at it's fading form.
End Episode, Roll Credits
Episode Six
Full Circle
"For we have come full circle, and must prepare to meet our maker."
-- Ralph Waldo Emerson
RECAP OF PREVIOUS EPISODE CLIFFHANGER:
Adric runs into the control center, his gun drawn. Nyssa, The Doctor, and Ace are all far behind him. Nyssa gasps when she sees the body of Gairlek. The Master's voice booms from his TARDIS, highly amused. The first groans of de-materialization can be heard.
THE MASTER
(Laughing)
Too late, fool! Better luck next time!
ADRIC
Yaro!!!
As The Master's TARDIS de-materializes, Adric shoots off an entire clip at it's fading form. He only stops because he has run out of ammunition, not because The Master's TARDIS has completely disappeared.
*****
Adric is silent for a few moments, as he slowly brings the gun back down. His face is one of controlled anger. Nyssa and Ace are both looking at him as if he were a crazed lunatic. Only The Doctor seems passive.
THE DOCTOR
(to Adric)
Feeling better?
Adric scowls at him, but ignores the sarcasm. Instead, he reaches for his communicator.
ADRIC
We'll see who laughs last.
(to communicator)
SELDON, warm up the ship. I'm coming aboard.
SELDON
(from communicator)
Affirmative.
Adric turns to leave the room, but The Doctor stands in his way.
ADRIC
(forcefully)
Out of my way, Doctor. This isn't your fight.
THE DOCTOR
You're wrong. It's been my "fight" far longer than it has been yours.
ADRIC
I've waited nine years for him, Doctor. I'm not going to let him get
away this time.
NYSSA
Adric, let him go! He's not worth it!
ADRIC
Exactly. That's why he has to die.
THE DOCTOR
You think you're the only one who's suffered because of him? You think
you're the only self-appointed angel of vengeance? Wake up, man!
ADRIC
I think it's high time he's paid for his crimes, and if you won't do
it I will. Stand aside!
Adric steps forward, prepared to throw The Doctor if need be. Instead, The Doctor calmly produces a blaster and points it in Adric's direction. Even Adric looks surprised.
THE DOCTOR
Let him go, Adric. He'll show up again. He always does.
ADRIC
You wouldn't...
THE DOCTOR
Try me. If I have to stun you to get you to cooperate, I will. Order
your ship to stand down.
There is a tense moment as Adric and The Doctor glare at each other. Then the tension eases as Adric reluctantly capitulates.
ADRIC
(to communicator)
SELDON, belay that last order.
SELDON
(from communicator)
Affirmative.
Adric tosses his communicator to the floor. The Doctor notes the gesture and puts the gun away.
ADRIC
There. Satisfied?
THE DOCTOR
No, but I can't let you go after him -- not now. You'd be dead long
before you even got close.
ADRIC
That's a risk I'll take. I'm not afraid of dying.
THE DOCTOR
Then don't throw your life away on a useless gesture. Believe me, I
like letting The Master go even less than you do... I've got more reason
to hate him than you do.
ADRIC
(teeth clenched; cold anger)
You do? Sometimes I wonder.
Adric turns away and stomps off, pausing only to pound his fist into a bulkhead. The Doctor shakes his head, then turns to Nyssa.
THE DOCTOR
Go keep an eye on him. Make sure he doesn't do anything rash. Try to
talk some sense into him, too.
Nyssa nods and, grim-faced, goes off after her old friend. Ace is shaking her head, and looking not very pleased.
ACE
Don't you think you were being a little harsh on him? He has a point.
THE DOCTOR
True. But throwing his life away again isn't going to make it.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus corridor.
Nyssa catches up with Adric, who is attempting to move very fast. She
has had enough of this nonsense.
NYSSA
Adric, what is wrong with you? Why can't you just let it go for now?
Adric stops and turns to face Nyssa squarely.
ADRIC
How many people were on Traken, Nyssa?
Nyssa stops, speechless, her face going cold. Adric continues.
ADRIC
Or Logopolis? Or what about random violence - like your friend back
there, or Tegen's aunt? The man's a monster, Nyssa. He's amoral and insane.
And no one is willing to do what has to be done.
NYSSA
(sarcastically)
Except you, right?
ADRIC
I'd expected more from you. I'd thought you at least might understand.
NYSSA
Understand? This mad rush to self-destruction? No, I don't understand.
I'd hope you were at least willing to be rational, for a change.
Adric scowls, turns, and resumes walking down the corridor. He continues the argument.
ADRIC
It's my life and I'll do what I damn-well please with it. Why is everyone
suddenly so concerned how I spend it?
NYSSA
Well, what do you expect us to think? You come out of nowhere, without
any warning, and expect us to act like nothings happened? You never even
bothered to tell us you were still alive!
Adric once more stops, and for the first time in the entire story, his face seems to soften -- slightly. He sighs and faces her once more.
ADRIC
(quietly)
I didn't want to drag any of you into this. This is a dangerous game
I'm playing, Nyssa, with a dangerous opponent. If I'd told you or anyone
else I was still around... well, too many questions would have been asked...
and the answers might have gotten you killed.
NYSSA
And if The Master hadn't come here, you'd still have kept it a secret?
ADRIC
Probably. At least until I'd dealt with him. After that it wouldn't
have mattered.
NYSSA
And if you'd gotten yourself killed?
ADRIC
Then it still wouldn't have mattered.
Adric resumes his pace through the corridor. Nyssa shakes her head in exasperation.
NYSSA
Adric, you're alive... Despite everything, you've managed to survive.
Doesn't that mean anything to you?
ADRIC
No... It doesn't.
Nyssa, now very angry, passes Adric and walks in front of him.
NYSSA
Stupid, absolutely stupid. There's more to life than vengeance, Adric.
ADRIC
(sighing resolutely)
I'm sorry you think so.
In one quick move, Adric lands a Venusian karate chop on Nyssa, who immediately goes limp. Adric catches her and gently lays her on the ground.
ADRIC
I'm sorry, Nyssa. You truly don't know how sorry I am.
Adric pulls a communicator from his boot and stands. Perhaps we hear the opening bars of ominous, vaguely funeral-esque music.
ADRIC
(to communicator)
SELDON, are you there?
SELDON
(from communicator)
Affirmative.
ADRIC
Have you breached the security codes on The Doctor's TARDIS yet?
SELDON
Affirmative.
Adric takes a deep breath, preparing himself for what is to come.
ADRIC
Initiate Contingency Plan Alpha. I'm on my way.
Adric goes to a side door, but before stepping in pauses to take one last look at Nyssa. While he looks, the communicator beeps again.
SELDON
Do you request a systems update?
Adric does not answer at first, so SELDON tries again.
SELDON
Repeat, do you request a systems update?
Adric turns back to the doorway and steps through.
ADRIC
Negative. I'll get it when I'm aboard. Adr... um, Tel-Varesh out.
CUT TO: Interior, a large room on Terminus.
Kal and Vik are overseeing the surrender of Gera and her mercenaries.
There are a large number of soldiers with hands on their heads, a large
pile of weapons, and a number of recently liberated Terminus Security personnel
with weapons trained on the invaders. Gera looks to be in a foul mood,
with a medical doctor overlooking her artificial leg. The Doctor and Ace
enter.
THE DOCTOR
(to Kal)
Everything under control?
KAL
So far. Did The Master...?
The Doctor nods his head in the affirmative. Kal sighs; he'd more or less suspected that had been the case. Off to the side, Gera hears this and smiles, but says nothing.
KAL
Oh well, back to square one. Again.
Kal walks off. The Doctor watches him, and shakes his head.
THE DOCTOR
So many people, on such a stupid quest.
ACE
Look who's talking, Perfessor. It seems to me the things you've done
haven't been so different.
THE DOCTOR
True. But it's not an obsession, and it doesn't occupy my every waking
moment. I don't usually go looking for trouble, Ace, no matter what it
may look like. Adric and his friends... they've devoted their entire lives
to it.
(shaking his head again)
Such an awful waste.
ACE
Is that just it? Or do you feel guilty for letting him fall into The
Master's hands?
The Doctor is silent. Ace has obviously hit a sore spot, but The Doctor will not admit it. Across the room, a Terminus technician is having trouble with the station computer system. The Doctor goes over to see if he can be of any assistance. Ace follows him.
TECHNICIAN
(to himself)
Damn piece of Groaki hardware...
THE DOCTOR
Is there something wrong?
The technician looks up at The Doctor. Vik and Kal join him.
TECHNICIAN
Oh, nothing much. I'm trying to access the station engineering schematics
for this section. We've got some incendiary damage in one of the conduits,
and I need to see what's there before I do any cutting.
The technician makes a few more taps on the keyboard, and gives up in disgust.
TECHNICIAN
Great. I think the memory core's damaged.
VIK
(to The Doctor)
We can have SELDON run a scan and download it for you. The ship is
much more sophisticated than this equipment.
THE DOCTOR
Yes, I should think that might work.
(he smiles)
Besides, I've got an itch to talk with this computer of yours. He sounds
like an interesting, errr, fellow.
The technician gets out of his seat, and Vik sits down and pulls her communicator from her belt.
VIK
SELDON, are you there?
SELDON
(from communicator)
Affirmative.
VIK
I need you to run a localized structural scan. I need it for section...
SELDON
Negative.
VIK
What do you mean, "negative"? I haven't even given you the coordinates
yet.
SELDON
Access to this system is now limited to systems operator. All other
user access is temporarily suspended. Information downloads...
As SELDON is speaking, Kal and Vik trade "uh-oh" glances. Kal grabs the communicator from Vik.
KAL
SELDON, this is Kal.
SELDON
Affirmative.
KAL
Priority code: Papa-Alpha-Michael-two-four-three-one-five. Acknowledge.
SELDON
Negative. Access now limited to systems operator. All other user...
KAL
SELDON, under whose orders?
SELDON
(pause)
Captain tel-Varesh.
The Doctor has been watching this with increasing alarm. Just as he'd feared, something is going on.
THE DOCTOR
What's the matter?
VIK
The captain has shut us out of the system.
(to Kal, sounding very alarmed)
Good gods, he's not going to...?
At this moment, Nyssa enters, her walk stumbling but being helped along by a Terminus security officer. Ace goes to help her.
NYSSA
(panting)
Doctor, he's gone. I tried to stop him but...
The Doctor immediately grasps the situation and grabs the communicator from Kal.
THE DOCTOR
SELDON, get Adric on the line. NOW.
ADRIC
(from communicator)
I'm here, Doctor.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
Adric is strapped into the pilots seat. He is once more in a black
flight-suit. Another space helmet is visible. The flight deck is ablaze
with lights and electronic activity; the ship is obviously about to get
underway. It is still, however, docked with Terminus. While Adric talks
to the communications panel, from time to time he will examine a read-out,
throw a switch, or perform some other miscellaneous pre-flight check.
ADRIC
I thought it was too much to hope for a clean get-away.
THE DOCTOR
(from communications panel)
This is madness, Adric. You'll never get at him!
ADRIC
I still have a trick or two to try yet. I'll get close enough.
CUT TO: Interior, computer console on Terminus.
Kal, Vik, Nyssa, and Ace are all gathered around the computer terminal.
A video screen has now been trained on the Blue Star Twice. Kal grabs the
communicator.
KAL
Sir, I have to agree. You can't do this! It's too dangerous!
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
ADRIC
We both knew it would come to this, Kal. You even joked about it. There's
no other way, not without risking others. And I will not risk your lives
on my vendetta.
CUT TO: Interior, computer console on Terminus.
THE DOCTOR
Adric, this isn't just revenge you're talking about. It's murder. Cold-blooded
murder.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
ADRIC
(angrily)
How many more planets is he going to kill this time, Doctor? How many
more lives is he going ruin? It's time to end it, end him, NOW.
CUT TO: Interior, computer console on Terminus.
The Doctor's eyes go wide, as if he'd been slapped. Adric continues
over the radio.
ADRIC
(from communicator)
I'm sorry Nyssa, Doctor. It would have been nice to stick around. But
this is no place for any of you.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
ADRIC
Don't try to stop me, don't get between us. This is between The Master
and I.
CUT TO: SFX shot of Blue Star Twice, docked to Terminus.
It silently de-materializes like a TARDIS. Frantic, tension-filled
music starts. Tempo quickens as we --
CUT TO: Interior, computer console on Terminus.
THE DOCTOR
(hurriedly, to Kal and Vik)
What's his plan?
VIK
Time-ram, probably. Then unload the weapons at point-blank range.
THE DOCTOR & NYSSA
WHAT!?!?
KAL
It was the one plan we always held in reserve. We never used it because
it's a suicide-run!
THE DOCTOR
To the TARDIS!! Come on!!
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
Electronic activity on the flight deck is now at a fever pitch. Computer
screens at Adric's side display ship's readiness, weapons disposition,
and a tracking grid. Perhaps there is also a simple heads-up target display
on a screen or glass shield in front of him. Music has now gone to a somber,
military, almost funeral-esque march.
ADRIC
Master arm, on!
SELDON
Master arm, on.
ADRIC
Shields at full, Stand-by!
SELDON
Shields at full Stand-by.
ADRIC
Time to intercept. Mark!
SELDON
Six minutes, thirty-two seconds from mark.
(short pause)
The Doctor's TARDIS has de-materialized.
ADRIC
Can you hold them back?
SELDON
Affirmative, but for a limited time only. The Doctor's expertise with
computer systems makes...
ADRIC
Can it, SELDON. Hold them back for as long as you can.
SELDON
Affirmative.
CUT TO: SFX, the Blue Star Twice shooting through the space-time vortex.
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's TARDIS control room.
The Doctor, Ace, Nyssa, Kal, and Vik are all in the control room. The
TARDIS is in flight. The Doctor puts a computer display on the screen,
which shows three dots -- The Master's TARDIS, the Blue Star Twice,
and The Doctor's TARDIS. The Blue Star Twice is closing in on The
Master's TARDIS. The Doctor is working at the console frantically.
ACE
(anxiously)
Perfessor, what are you going to do?
THE DOCTOR
If he's going to try to ram, the only way to stop him is to get between
them.
ACE
But... He can't possibly do any damage to The Master's TARDIS, can
he?
VIK
(to Ace)
Twin recoiless ion accelerator canons powered by a polarity reversed
neutron phase array.
THE DOCTOR
(pause, then nods)
He's got a weapon that'll harm a TARDIS...
(shaking head)
I don't know whether to be impressed or appalled...
While The Doctor tries to get between Adric and The Master, The Master
has integrated the three crystals into his TARDIS; a jury-rigged system
is visible. The three crystals are glowing red. Back on the TARDIS, the
Doctor gets a very rude surprise -- SELDON has seized control of the TARDIS
via Adric's uplink with the BST. No matter what he does, The Doctor cannot
break SELDON's control of his TARDIS. Helplessly, The Doctor and the others
watch as Adric and The Master trade insults. Incredulously, The Doctor
realizes that Adric is goading The Master... Adric attempts a time-ram,
but the attempt is deflected; The Blue Star Twice is jolted out of space-time
into realspace.
ADRIC
You killed me, Bastard... You killed me as thoroughly as if the Cybermen
had done it. "Adric" might have let you live... his wraith will not.
KAL
(looking at screen)
Where the devil is he?
VIK
(examining console)
Time-wake at six-point-oh-three!!
THE DOCTOR
He's dematerializing...
Suddenly, The Master's TARDIS begins to appear -- dematerializing above and behind the Blue Star Twice. Nyssa grabs at the communications console.
NYSSA
(to console)
Adric, above you!
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
Adric frantically activates some controls.
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Master's TARDIS, now configured as a Sarlin attack ship, FIRES
on the Blue Star Twice. There is a brilliant burst of light.
CUT TO: Interior, The Master's TARDIS control room.
The Master looks quizzically at the pyrotechnics display.
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Blue Star Twice dematerialises above and behind The Master's
TARDIS. It fires; there is a shower of sparks as The Master's TARDIS takes
damage. The duel has begun.
CUT TO: Interior, The Master's TARDIS control room.
The control room rocks, sparks fly, some damage becomes apparent. The
Master works his controls to begin a counter-attack.
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's TARDIS control room.
The screen shows Adric's first hits on The Master. Ace is exuberant.
ACE
Awright! Get him, Adric!
The others give her an appalled look.
ACE
(shrugging)
Well...
KAL
(looking at screen)
The Master's coming around again...
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Blue Star Twice is trying to take evasive action, but The
Master's ship is much faster. It fires, and now it is Adric's turn to receive
damage.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
The flight deck rocks. Warnings flash on the computer screen. Adric
ignores them. He presses his controls to fire again.
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The two ships fight each other, playing cat-and-mouse. As the battle
progresses, it becomes obvious that The Master is inflicting more damage
on the Blue Star Twice than Adric is inflicting on The Master's
TARDIS.
CUT TO: Interiors, flight deck of Blue Star Twice and The
Master's TARDIS control room.
Interspaced with short battle scenes should be brief glimpses of the
two antagonists. Adric tends to swear a lot.
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's TARDIS control room.
KAL
(looking at computer screen on the control console)
He can't take much more of this, Doctor. He's loosing power rapidly.
The Doctor has one console panel open, exposing it's innards, as he tries to circumvent SELDON's control of his ship.
THE DOCTOR
SELDON, give us back control. He's not proving anything!
SELDON
(from control console)
Negative. You are forbidden to interfere at this time.
KAL
(slamming fist on console)
Damn it, SELDON! He's getting himself killed!
THE DOCTOR
(to Kal)
Keep talking to him. I might have something.
NYSSA
(looking at screen)
Make it fast, Doctor! He can't take much more of this!
VIK
(looking at screen)
He's just lost his starboard side!
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The right side of the Blue Star Twice is now twisted wreckage.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
The flight deck is now a virtual electronic wreck; smoke, sparks are
everywhere. Adric seems not to notice.
SELDON
Attention! We have lost starboard integrity.
ADRIC
(looking at computer screen)
Shut down life-support everywhere but here. Route starboard weapons
power to port.
SELDON
Affirmative.
(pause)
Enemy ship approaching at one-seven-one-mark-four.
ADRIC
Got it. Bringing us around again...
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Blue Star Twice maneuvers toward The Master's ship. It fires,
but the energy bolt is feeble.
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Master's TARDIS/Sarlin attack ship fires on the Blue Star Twice.
The left gun is hit; the ship, however, survives.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
Adric is frantically working a few of his remaining controls.
ADRIC
SELDON, all power to the shields, NOW!
He unstraps himself and jumps to one of the console stations behind him. Once there, he types on a keyboard. The words "Warp Drive Fusion Containment Pods" appear on the screen.
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Master's TARDIS/Sarlin attack ship begins to turn again on the
Blue
Star Twice. There is a return to the frantic, tension-filled music.
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's TARDIS control room.
The Doctor is working frantically on his control console; he is not
going to let Adric "die" again. Kal is shouting at the communications panel.
KAL
SELDON, he's dead in space. He can't fight any longer!
SELDON
Negative. You are forbidden to interfere...
The screen shows another hit on the Blue Star Twice.
ACE
Is he even alive?
Nyssa glances at one part of the control console.
NYSSA
The scanners say he's still there.
(she looks up at the screen, very worried)
But at the rate he's taking damage...
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Master's TARDIS/Sarlin attack ship is swooping down on what is
left of the Blue Star Twice.
CUT TO: Interior, The Master's TARDIS control room.
The Master grins in delight as his new toy fires once more on the Blue
Star Twice. On his screen the target glows as it's shields absorb the
blast.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
The ship rocks as Adric works grimly at the console. On the screen,
red warning flashes have begun to appear. A hissing noise begins to be
heard.
SELDON
Attention! Atmosphere breach on flight deck!
Adric finishes what he is doing; the entire screen is now flashing red. He returns to his pilot's station and puts on a pair of black gloves, then straps himself in. One screen shows The Master's ship approaching again. As he begins to don his helmet, he takes one last look around him, then faces his computer console.
ADRIC
Thanks for everything, SELDON. I'm sorry it had to end like this.
SELDON
Affirmative. Further orders?
ADRIC
(pause, thinking)
No. You know what to do.
SELDON
Affirmative.
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's control room.
VIK
His shields are buckling, Doctor!
THE DOCTOR
(from underneath console)
Almost got it...
SELDON
Warning! Unauthorized circumvention in progress...
VIK
Can it, SELDON!
The central console column begins to move up and down. The Doctor stands up to operate the dematerialization controls.
THE DOCTOR
Got it!
Suddenly, a part of the control console explodes; the central column stops moving. The Doctor is furious.
THE DOCTOR
This is becoming disgustingly familiar...
He once more goes beneath the console, conscious that they are running out of options.
NYSSA
Doctor, he's running out of time!
VIK
(looking at screen)
There go his shields.
The screen shows The Master's ship firing at the Blue Star Twice; the shields on Adric's ship fade completely.
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
Adric has donned his space helmet. His face is grim.
CUT TO: Interior, The Master's TARDIS control room.
The Master is gloating; victory is near.
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The Master's TARDIS/Sarlin attack ship turns and dives on the Blue
Star Twice.
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's TARDIS control room.
The screen shows The Master's ship closing in on the Blue Star Twice.
NYSSA
Doctor, hurry!
KAL
(looking at screen)
Too late...
The Doctor gets up from under the console and looks at the screen. He too knows it's too late. Vik and Nyssa both shout at the screen. (NOTE: this shot should look identical to the end scene of "Earthshock").
VIK
Captain!
NYSSA
Adric!
CUT TO: Interior, The Master's TARDIS control room.
A video screen shows his ship is closing in on the Blue Star Twice.
The Master is laughing, celebrating in his victory as his ship moves in
for the kill. It is now REAL close to the Blue Star Twice.
THE MASTER
DIE, FOOL!!!
CUT TO: Interior, flight deck of Blue Star Twice.
Through the faceplate of Adric's space helmet, we can see a look of
triumph on his face. For the first time in the entire story, he smiles.
ADRIC
Got you, you bastard!
CUT TO: Rapid freeze frames on The Doctor, Ace, Kal, Vik, Nyssa, Adric and The Master.
CUT TO: SFX, space with The Doctor's TARDIS in the foreground.
Suddenly, there is a titanic, HUGE explosion.
CUT TO: Interior, The Master's TARDIS control room.
The camera freezes on The Master, suddenly filled with horror and fear
as he realizes he's been tricked. From the jury-rigged crystal linkage,
the fractured dampening-crystal explodes -- unleashing the full power of
the explosion to surge through The Master's ship.
THE MASTER
NOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!
The screen bleeds incandescent white as the explosion envelopes his ship, and The Master screams as he dies...(?)
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's TARDIS control room.
The screen now shows two exploding balls. The Doctor grips the control
console; he knows what's coming.
THE DOCTOR
HOLD ON TO SOMETHING!!!
Even before he finishes, the TARDIS is struck by a powerful shock-wave, the death-throes of The Master's TARDIS. Everyone is either thrown to the floor or against a wall. Perhaps even the gong sounds...
CUT TO: SFX, space.
The two fireballs are now expanding to form one huge ball of flame.
CUT TO: Interior, The Doctor's TARDIS console room.
Absolute silence. Everyone is now getting up from wherever they have
fallen. Most are looking at the screen, dumbfounded by the turn of events.
Vik and Ace are crying. Nyssa, though, just stares at the screen in shock,
unable to believe this has happened again. Kal turns to The Doctor, who
is now glumly looking at a computer screen.
KAL
(very quietly)
Did he....?
THE DOCTOR
(nodding solemnly)
For what it's worth... that was The Master's TARDIS we felt. Both ships
are destroyed.
(he presses a few buttons)
SELDON is gone too...
ACE
(still crying)
Doctor... can't we... I mean... this is a time machine, right?
VIK
(quietly, shaking her head from side to side)
No, we can't. There's no guarantee we'd ever pull him out... and we'd
leave a rift large enough for even The Master to escape again.
(to The Doctor)
He wouldn't have wanted that...
THE DOCTOR
(solemnly)
Yes... I know.
Everyone is silent, unable to say anything but unwilling to give up. The moment drags on. Finally, The Doctor reaches for the de-materialization switch.
THE DOCTOR
(solemnly)
No sense in staying around...
Just as he is about to throw the switch, a faint radio transponder sound begins to be heard. As the seconds tick by, the sound gets louder and clearer. Everyone looks at each other, not willing to believe as realization begins to sink in.
VIK
(quietly)
That sounds like a...
The Doctor races to another part of the control console as he finishes the sentence.
THE DOCTOR
...a universal distress beacon!
Nyssa though, who has been watching the screen the entire time, is the first to spot it.
NYSSA
(very quietly)
Look...
On the screen is a very small black dot, growing alternately larger and smaller, as if an object were tumbling rapidly away from the explosions and at them.
CUT TO: SFX, space with a still brilliant explosion in the background.
A small black tumbling object is silhouetted against the whiteness.
A close-up reveals the object to be a very rapidly tumbling ejection seat,
the same as the one Adric was strapped to on the Blue Star Twice.
There is a black flight-suited figure strapped in. It is moving away rapidly
from the explosion.
CUT TO: Close up of space helmet.
Adric's face is inside, unconscious but alive.
CUT TO: Interior, a Terminus patient's room.
The camera is entirely on Nyssa, who is wearing a lab coat and holding
a medical clip-board. There are a number of papers attached, and she is
using one for reference. She looks extremely annoyed. She has also adopted
an extremely serious, matter-of-fact voice.
NYSSA
You have a broken arm, a broken leg, and three cracked ribs, all on
your right side.
As she says this, the camera turns to reveal Adric in a patients bed. He has several casts on him, a large number of computerized-looking medical gear, and possibly an I.V. tube stuck in him. Only one arm, the left, is free. He is, however, fully conscious and sitting up. The Doctor, Ace, Kal, and Vik are all sitting around, some looking slightly amused. Adric looks completely serious, but maybe with a trace of his old self. Nyssa continues with the diagnosis.
NYSSA
You have torn muscle and ligament in both your legs and arms, a dislocated
left shoulder, and a mild concussion. (she takes a deep breath and continues)
In addition, you have minor internal bleeding in your spleen and kidney,
minor nerve damage in all extremities, second and third degree burns on
your back, chest, and abdomen, some signs of minor cell damage due to radiation
exposure, and a temporary five-to-ten percent loss of hearing.
After the diagnosis, Nyssa gives him a look that roughly translates as "and if you ever do that again I will KILL you."
ADRIC
(utter deadpan)
Is that all?
NYSSA
(going through papers)
No, your blood pressure is ten points too high, you're ten kilos overweight,
and you're working on an ulcer.
THE DOCTOR
In other words, you'll live.
NYSSA
Despite your best efforts.
VIK
I thought Alzarians were suppose to be quick healers?
ADRIC
True, but there are limits to everything.
(wincing at a quick spasm of pain)
And I seem to have reached mine...
KAL
(shaking his head)
The ejection seats... You know, I never even thought of them.
ADRIC
I don't see why. You're the one who insisted on putting the damn-things
in.
THE DOCTOR
Ejection seats with a short distance transmat. You know, you managed
to surprise even me?
ACE
(to Adric)
What I don't understand is, if you knew you could eject, why wait for
the last second?
THE DOCTOR
The scanners, Ace. Remember how we detected he was still on his ship
before it blew? Well, so could The Master. And his sensors were better
than ours.
ADRIC
(nodding in agreement)
Uh-huh. And at those speeds and distances, two or three seconds warning
would have been enough to get him clear. No, I had to lure him close for
it to work; I wanted as much of that explosion as possible to surge through
The Master's TARDIS. It's also why I also staged that little fight just
before; he was using a lot of power maintaining that configuration. The
more he wasted on me...
VIK
The less he'd have to try and get away when your trap was sprung. Nasty.
KAL
(thinking)
Wait a minute. That means you expected us to be there when it was all
over.
ADRIC
Of course. You can't really expect The Doctor to stand by and not try
to interfere.
The Doctor coughs but says nothing. Nyssa shakes her head.
NYSSA
You've been at this far too long, Adric. You're beginning to think
like The Master.
Adric is silent for a moment. When he finally speaks, he looks as if he is prepared for the worst.
ADRIC
All right, I have to know. Is he or isn't he?
THE DOCTOR
Dead? The only answer I can give you is... probably.
ACE
What? You don't think he actually SURVIVED that?
THE DOCTOR
You can never tell with The Master. He's been thought dead before,
you know... but always seems to come back when you least expect him.
NYSSA
(silently, to herself)
Sounds like someone else I know...
THE DOCTOR
No, the only way I could tell you for certain is if you could produce
the body, and even then...
VIK
He's survived bullets, blasters, and broadswords, Ace.
ADRIC
Here's hoping thermonuclear destruction does the trick.
KAL
(pause)
Well, I don't know about you, sir, but... six years on a vendetta is
long enough for me.
VIK
(nodding)
And me.
ADRIC
(nodding)
Agreed. I've been blown up twice now; that's more than enough.
NYSSA
(to Adric)
So what will you do now?
ADRIC
I don't know.
(closing eyes and laying back)
It's been so long since I've had anything else to think about...
VIK
You know, I think I'm going to miss the ship. SELDON was always a pain,
but he was still...
ADRIC
(opening eyes and sitting up)
That reminds me. Doctor, there should have been a pack attached to
my seat.
THE DOCTOR
Yes, as a matter of fact, it's over here somewhere...
The Doctor picks up a medium-sized bag laying forgotten in one corner of the room. He fishes his hands into it and pulls out a large cylinder with various wires attached. Some silvery disks fall out as well. Kal and Vik look at it in amazement.
KAL
That's...
ADRIC
SELDON's memory core. Or at least, the back-up. Personality C.P.U.,
software, plus all our engineering files. SELDON updated everything before
I left Terminus.
KAL
We could rebuild the ship!
VIK
Or convert an old one. That's probably cheaper.
ADRIC
Whatever. The point is, we do have options.
(he turns to Nyssa)
We'd need someplace to work, though...
Nyssa thinks about it for a moment, and decides it might be nice to have Adric and friends stick around for a little while longer.
NYSSA
I think something can be arranged.
THE DOCTOR
Well, that's settled then. Now, if you don't mind, I think it's time
Ace and I...
ADRIC
Doctor, before you go I'd possibly like a word with you...
(he glances around at the others)
...in private?
The others get the hint and exit. Alone, there is an awkward pause between Adric and The Doctor. Finally, Adric breaks it.
ADRIC
You've been wanting to tear into me ever since I got back on the TARDIS.
I thought I'd give you the chance.
The Doctor thinks about it for a moment.
THE DOCTOR
You know I don't exactly approve of what you've done.
Adric nods.
THE DOCTOR
That doesn't mean I don't understand. Or even not sympathize. It's
just... I'd always hoped there would be a better way.
ADRIC
(quietly)
I know. I thought so too... once.
(pause)
I'm not proud of having killed him, you know. Glad, yes... but not
proud.
THE DOCTOR
So what will you do if he is still around?
ADRIC
I don't know. I suppose I'll find out when it happens. You will keep
me informed, will you?
THE DOCTOR
(nodding, reluctantly)
If I can, yes.
ADRIC
(thinking for a moment)
I will tell you this, though. If that sonnuva bitch is still around,
I'm not going to just stand by.
The Doctor nods, knowing he couldn't expect anything more under the circumstances. There is another awkward pause, this time broken by The Doctor.
THE DOCTOR
Adric... um... I'm sorry I never went after you. If I'd known...
ADRIC
(shaking his head)
No, don't torture yourself, Doctor. I know why you didn't, and I understand.
There's probably little you could have done in any case.
THE DOCTOR
But if I'd stopped to think...
ADRIC
There's no way you could have known. The Master had no reason to tell
you, and he covered his tracks very well. I doubt even Gallifrey could
have pieced them together. No, the only person who had to answer for it
has paid.
(pause)
Dearly.
(pause)
I hope.
The Doctor smirks and shakes his head.
THE DOCTOR
You know... for The Master's sake, I certainly hope you're right. I'd
hate to be in his shoes if I knew you were just a few steps behind.
The Doctor offers Adric his hand. The two shake.
THE DOCTOR
Welcome back.
Camera close-up of handshake.
Roll credits.