THE CULT OF FENRIC The New Adventures of Doctor Who American Online, 11-12/95 Plot line by DrTuna ---------- Background: TIME: 344 AD, a week in March. LOCATION: ASIA MINOR, AROUND AND ABOUT CONSTANTINOPLE Background: Constantinople was founded in 311 by Constantine the Great, who sketched the walls out in the sands with his sword. By 344 it is the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire, which is in ascendancy while the West is in decline. Christianity is now accepted by the Romans, but many other religions vie for the allegiance of the people. ---------- DRTUNA : <<<>>> DRTUNA : <<<>>> DRTUNA : <<<>>> DRTUNA : <<>> THE NEW ADVENTURES OF DOCTOR WHO AMERICA ONLINE 11/29/95 11: 16: 28 PM . IN THE CASTLE OF THE CULT OF FENRIC, IN THE COASTAL MOUNTAINS OF ASIA MINOR, HIGH PRIEST ERLICK SITS ON HIS THRONE Roth Starr : $ ----> 344 AD, March, around tea time, A Time Swept Caste standing precariously on a hill Roth Starr : $ ---> Inside two beings putter about, one clothed in clothing not unlike Lawrence of Arabia, the Roth Starr : $ ---> The other wears clothing of the thieves guild tradition Roth Starr : $ ----> The two beings are Erlick, The High Priest of Fenric, and Solia, Princess of Thieves Roth Starr : $ : : : Erlick turns, his clothing fluttering dramatically to look down up Solia from his throne: : : Sosunami : $ : : Being escorted by two of Erlick's guards: : You sent for me, Lord Erlick? Roth Starr : $ : : To Solia: : : Yes my dear : : motions for the guards to leave: : I have, how shall we put it, a need of your services Sosunami : $ And what services might those be, Lord? Roth Starr : $ Your uncanny ability to procure things that one needs Sosunami : $ It is an ability that is indeed in high demand, Lord. : : soft smile: : My talents do not Sosunami : $ come without cost. A cost that balances on what is needed. Roth Starr : $ : : : A grin peeks from behind the mask: : : Oh of course My dear you shall be well compensated of course Roth Starr : $ For I need your best men on this job, absolute best this must be perfect Roth Starr : $ : : : Thunder booms outside: : : Roth Starr : $ For you must find me a body, the most perfect body there is Roth Starr : $ Simple yes? But there must be no mistakes and I need it before the next new moon! Roth Starr : $ : : : ominous music begins to play: : : Roth Starr : $ Solia: That is all my lord, a good physical specimen? Roth Starr : $ Erlick: Yes that is all, when your bring him to me you shall receive quite a compensation.... : : Grin: Sosunami : $ Perhaps if you where more clear on my compensation I could 'acquire' this person sooner. Sosunami : $ : : smile: : Roth Starr : $ Oh my dear riches beyond your wildest dream, my entire treasure horde... behold..... Roth Starr : $ : : : Waves hand and a vault opens behind him showing piles upon piles of gold: : : Roth Starr : $ All this is yours, for just one man. Sosunami : $ : : Raising an eyebrow, but no other emotion present on face: : Very well. I will bring the Sosunami : $ one you seek to you when I have found him. : : smile not fading: : I can see that you'll pay Sosunami : $ well for my efforts. Roth Starr : $ I'll pay you exactly what you deserve my dear : : Under his breath: : Exactly what they all deserve Sosunami : $ : : Bowing, the smile fading: : Farewell, Lord. I will be in touch. : : Turning and leaving: : Roth Starr : $ : : : Motions his hand and the temple doors close behind Solia: : : Sosunami : $ : : Returning to The guild of thieves: : Roth Starr : $ : : : The thunder begins to grow louder as the dim temple is illuminated not by the flashes of lighting Roth Starr : $ but by the chilling smile creeping across Erlick's face: : : IN THE PALACE OF CONSTANTINOPLE, EMPEROR THEODORIC AND HIS GENERAL MEET Gnr Justus : % : : : : pacing around: : : DoctorWho8 : % I'm very worried about cult that is starting to come out into the open. Gnr Justus : % : : : : looks at Theodoric: : : : I agree... they represent a tricky conundrum DoctorWho8 : % What is your position about handling this cult? DoctorWho8 : % General? Gnr Justus : % I... I'm not sure...They do represent a threat to security yet finding them is the problem DoctorWho8 : & Yes I agree. Do you have any idea where their main hideout is? Gnr Justus : % I have men searching as we speak... DoctorWho8 : % If they gain anymore power, they might take over the whole empire. Gnr Justus : % I believe once we locate them we should use full force to eradicate their influence DoctorWho8 : % Yes, but what if they get to us first? Gnr Justus : % Not to worry my lord, I have our troops on full alert and have posted extra guard around Gnr Justus : % the cities.... any upsurge will be quashed immediately DoctorWho8 : % Let us hope God is on our side. Gnr Justus : % If not sir... then he has surely forsaken this world DoctorWho8 : % Let's hope he hasn't. DoctorWho8 : % I hope someone with some sort of insight into this cult comes to help us defeat them. ABOARD THE TARDIS DRTUNA : # : : : The Tardis is in flight. : : : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor is playing chess with the head of K-9 ... : : : DRTUNA : # : : : ... which is attached to the console control board. : : : DRTUNA : # Check! I've got you now! DRTUNA : # Negative. Knight to Queen's Bishop's 2, mate in two moves. DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor chuckles and stands up. : : : DRTUNA : # Very well, old dog, but you can't say I am a pushover! MsTegan : # What's so funny Doctor? DRTUNA : # Probability that you will make a fatal error... DRTUNA : # ... against a level 1 opponent - 62.3% . MsTegan : # : : Jumps when K-9 talks: : That thing gives me the creeps! DRTUNA : # Oh Tegan, K-9 thinks 62% error rate is unacceptable. DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor smiles : : : Not bad odds in my line of work! MsTegan : # : : Rolls eyes at the Doctor: : I'd take better odds any day! DRTUNA : : : : The Tardis has landed. : : : DRTUNA : # I say, Tegan, have you seen Daniel? DanielC71 : # : : : Enters Console room: : : MsTegan : # : : Giggles: : There he is Doctor! DRTUNA : # Well, here we are 342 AD, Daniel. DanielC71 : # : : : Looks behind him: : : DRTUNA : # or is it 344? .... just outside the historic city of Constantinople. MsTegan : # Wow, that's a long time ago! DRTUNA : # Yes, 344. DanielC71 : # 342? Constantinople? DanielC71 : # 344? DRTUNA : # Right, I'll need a detailed weather log for the next few days. DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor grabs a small print out. : : : DRTUNA : # Well Daniel, this isn't ancient Troy but it is close by, and at an exciting time in history. DanielC71 : # Good enough, I guess. So this is this Constantinople, not Istanbul, right? DRTUNA : # I am interested in exploring a bit. Our libraries are very weak on this period. But not Istanbul yet. DanielC71 : # : : : to Tegan: : : If you've a date in Constantinople, he'll be waiting in Istanbul! MsTegan : # Delmin, you silly! DRTUNA : # Care to take a look? DRTUNA : # I believe, my friends, that we shall all return safely. DanielC71 : # REALLY? DRTUNA : # Yes, I do. DRTUNA : # I would suggest a change of attire, however. MsTegan : # How's that Doctor? DRTUNA : # Well, Tegan, See you in the wardrobe! DanielC71 : # Good idea. Where's the wardrobe? MsTegan : # : : Brightens at the chance to wear new clothes: : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor leaves the console room and goes to the wardrobe room. : : : DanielC71 : # : : : Follows the Doc: : : MsTegan : # : : Scrambles past Delmin, and beats him to the wardrobe: : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor sorts through a rack of clothing : : : DRTUNA : # I wish Romana was here to advise me. Oh well... DRTUNA : # Plainly cut, but with rich fabrics... DRTUNA : # ... and a hint of elegance should do just fine for you two.... MsTegan : # : : Looks over all the choices: : DanielC71 : # : : : Takes the Doctor's suggestion of clothes: : : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor slips a rich dark blue smock on, a few modest silver chains,: : : DRTUNA : # : : : and a black velvet hooded cape. He stands for all to admire. : : : DanielC71 : # Very nice Doc! DRTUNA : # Well, usually I don't dress up, but I'm going to impersonate a wizard... DRTUNA : # ... and my psycho historical profile of this time indicates this should do the trick. DRTUNA : # ...and tricks. I am depending on a few rather primitive magic tricks to do the rest. MsTegan : # : : Tegan slips on one of the outfits suggested by the Doctor, Teal in color: : DanielC71 : # : : : Changes: : : Gosh, I'll miss my trench, though. MsTegan : : : Kicks off those nasty high heels and slips her feet into cozy comfy sandals: : DRTUNA : # You two, make sure to take cloaks, it will rain heavily this afternoon. MsTegan : # : : Sighs, because it feels so good to liberate her feet from heels: : DanielC71 : # : : : grabs a cloak: : : DRTUNA : # Tegan, you look like a noblewoman of the city, I must say! MsTegan : # : : Takes cloak: : DanielC71 : # : : : emerges dressed in correct style: : : DRTUNA : # I say, you look quite sharp, Daniel. MsTegan : # : : Smiles and models new outfit: : DanielC71 : # Thank-you, Doctor. DanielC71 : # Tegan! : : : clutches hand over heart: : : MsTegan : # : : Grins at Delmin: : You look pretty dashing yourself! DRTUNA : # You know, humans average over a foot taller in your century, DRTUNA : # and Tegan's as well, than they do in 344 AD. DRTUNA : # We shall all be rather large and, dare I say, handsome to them. DRTUNA : # Handsome? Now you know why I have come here. DanielC71 : # Doctor, you don't need to tell us we're handsome in 344! MsTegan : # I like the sound of this trip more and more, Doctor! DRTUNA : Sorry to be in such a good mood, but I have a good feeling about this stop! DanielC71 : # Don't apologize! You can go back to your old self once everything goes wrong! DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor gives out locator bracelets to all. : : : DRTUNA : # Now, these bracelets will let me know where you are should we get separated. DanielC71 : # : : : Takes a bracelet: : : MsTegan : # : : Takes a bracelet: : Just what we need! Wonderful idea Doctor! DRTUNA : # You know, separated, it does happen, from time to time. : : : The Doctor smiles : : : DanielC71 : # Interesting... It looks simple but... very elegant design. MsTegan : # : : Admires the way the silver bracelet glitters upon her wrist: : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor hands them each a small tablet. : : : DRTUNA : # Basic directions in the city. It's not that large yet, only being about 30 years old. MsTegan : # : : Takes the tablet: : DRTUNA : # Well? MsTegan : # Kind of like a map, is it? DRTUNA : # Yes. : : : The Doctor goes to the console room and opens the door. He exits. : : : DanielC71 : # : : : Takes tablet: : : MsTegan : # I'm game if you are, anything to look out for, or is this just for fun, Doctor? MsTegan : # To Delmin> He's not telling us everything, I think! DanielC71 : # To Tegan> He never does! DanielC71 : # Out we go... : : : follows Doctor: : : DRTUNA : # It's all for fun, really! MsTegan : # : : Hurries after Delmin and the Doctor: : DRTUNA : # : : : The door closes behind Tegan and Delmin as they exit. : : : IN THE MOUNTAINS, A HORDE ON STRANGE WARRIORS IS MOVING Drami1 : ::: mountain villages where the drugged crazed army is recruiting. ::: Drami1 : * : : A horde of blank-eyed crazed overly muscular men stand poised on a slope above their: : Drami1 : * : : latest target: : Drami1 : * : : They stand paused for a moment, eerily focused to kill, then rush down upon the city with almost: : Drami1 : * : : inhuman screams and joyous howls of testosterone: : Drami1 : * : : Walls burst into flames, denizens are messily beheaded, buildings are crushed: : Drami1 : * : : One of the warriors grabs a healthy-looking citizen, bonking him with a big rock and: : Drami1 : * : : slinging his prone body over the saddle behind him for future drugging and conditioning, then: : : Drami1 : * : : continues killing the weaker populace: : THE DOCTOR, TEGAN, AND DELMIN EMERGE FROM THE TARDIS DRTUNA : @ : : : The Tardis is hidden in a rock formation near the city. : : : DRTUNA : @ : : : The Doctor stands, admiring the modest city gate. : : : MsTegan : @ To Delmin> I wonder what he is up to this time? DanielC71 : @ : : : shrugs: : : MsTegan : @ I guess he'll tell us when he is good and ready! DanielC71 : @ He's probably just visiting a friend or something. DRTUNA : @ I know what you are thinking. Trust me. This will work out just fine! Just observe and enjoy. DanielC71 : @ to Tegan> OK, NOW I'm worried. MsTegan : @ Delmin, well he said to enjoy, so let's just do that, okay? DRTUNA : @ : : : The Doctor begins walking towards the city gate. : : : DRTUNA : @ Well, I am bound for the Palace, to gather information. DRTUNA : @ I understand they are auditioning seers today... DRTUNA : @ ...and I want arrive in time to predict a freak rain storm which is due in about an hour. DanielC71 : @ In that case, you'll get the job flat, Doctor! DRTUNA : @ Why thank you, Daniel. : : : The Doctor stops at the gate, which features a stream of citizens going in and out. : : : DRTUNA : @ Care to accompany me? DanielC71 : @ As you bid us, my lord! : : : bows to show fealty: : : MsTegan : @ Whatever you think is best, Doctor! MsTegan : @ But, I kind of just want to look around and do some shopping, is that okay? DRTUNA : @ Perhaps we should meet here again at sundown. DanielC71 : @ Sundown, but no later. This will be dangerous during the day. DRTUNA : @ Very well, enjoy yourselves you two. No tour package can compare to this! DRTUNA : @ : : : The Doctor walks through the gate and towards the Palace. : : : MsTegan : @ : : Grins at the Doctor and waves as he scurries off: : DRTUNA : @ : : : The Doctor rounds a corner, and comes to the palace gates. : : : MsTegan : @ : : Sighs: : Well, I say let's have fun, and he can have his little mystery! MsTegan : @ Game. Delmin? : : Eyes twinkle: : MsTegan : @ This is going to be a blast! : : Pulls Delmin into the gates of the city. ERLICK IS IN HIS CASTLE Roth Starr : $ Erlick: : : as if in a trance: : I love these calm little moments before the storm.... Roth Starr : $ : : : Suddenly as if under a trance thousands of almost soulless beings walk like automatons into the Roth Starr : $ temple, the lightning flashes, Erlick mutters as a strange energy engulfs him, soon the energy Roth Starr $ : engulfs the warriors as their very life essence is devoured by Erlick: : : Roth Starr : $ Go, Now, My Soulless Ones, Bring down the Wrath of Fenric, bringer of Ragnarok and killer of Gods down Roth Starr : $ upon these puny humans. Do as he wishes! GO!!! Roth Starr : $ : : : The Legion of Doom just stand there: : : Roth Starr : $ Ooh you miserable bags of bones, move!!!! Roth Starr : $ : : : The Army of Darkness marches from the temple to a nice little drum beat: : : Roth Starr : $ : : ominous music ala Enlightenment or EarthShock begins to play: : : Roth Starr : $ Now there is nothing but to wait! Soon Fenric you shall be freed from your shackles by the Death Drami1 : $ : : The mindless legions march on to the music that only Erlick can hear: : Roth Starr : $ brought on by your Army of Darkness, then your body, the last phase before Ragnarok! Roth Starr : $ A Body!!!! Roth Starr : $ : : : Erlick settles down into his throne and becomes engulfed in the cloak: : Roth Starr : $ : : : The storm rages outside and in tune with the thunder and screams of death Erlick speaks: : : A body! Roth Starr : $ Mwhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha Roth Starr : $ : : : Death and Silence: : : Roth Starr : $ : : : Erlick breaks into sweeny todd while waiting: : : Roth Starr : $ We all deserve to die Roth Starr : $ Tell you why Mrs.. lovit tell your why.... Oh joy company!! IN THE MARKETPLACE OF CONSTANTINOPLE Sosunami : * : : People watching streets: : MsTegan : * : : Drags Delmin over to the nearest marketplace: : Let's look here first! MsTegan : * Come on you slow poke! MsTegan : * :: Delmin grins and follows after Tegan: : Sosunami : * : : One of two people watching Delmin and Tegan from the crowds runs off: : MsTegan : * Wow! Stops in front of a cart and asks to try a sample of perfume: : DanielC71 : * Smells like a Turkish cat house in this alley... MsTegan : * : : Lifts wrist to Delmin: : Smell this one! DanielC71 : * : : : sniffs: : : Just like the last one. Pungent. MsTegan : * I like it! I think I'll get myself some! DanielC71 : * With what will you buy it? MsTegan : * : : Pulls some gemstones the Doctor gave her out of her pocket, triumphantly: : With these! DanielC71 : * Um, Tegan, if you don't want to be mugged, put those away... MsTegan : * : : Haggles with the vendor, and gets a small pot of the perfume for only one stone: : DanielC71 : * No Red Dwarf tapes here! : : : hmph: : : MsTegan : * : : Grits teeth: : All right Delmin, you worry too much! : : Puts away stones: : MsTegan : * : : Cant' stay mad at Delmin long....Laughs: : Thank goodness! MsTegan : To Delmin> See any other booths that look interesting? DanielC71 : * to Tegan> Let's try over here... DanielC71 : * Maybe they sell scrolls on the street by this time. MsTegan : * No, let's try over there! : : Points the opposite way: : DanielC71 : * Or are we too early for that? DanielC71 : * Right, your way! : : : follows: : : MsTegan : * What to you want with a nasty old scroll anyway? DanielC71 : * It's called READING, Tegan. IN THE LAIR OF THE GUILD OF THIEVES IN CONSTANTINOPLE Sosunami : # : : Runner runs in: : " Guild Mistress Solia, there is a tall one in the market, he and a Sosunami : # Young girl are there shopping. Saif is watching them now. Sosunami : # Good. Get Fres and Gorlan, tell them to dress as we planned. Sosunami : # : : Sorlia turns and begins preparing: ; DRTUNA : THE DOCTOR, DRESSED AS A WIZARD, APPROACHES THE PALACE DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor approaches the palace gates and the guard outside. : : : DRTUNA : % Kind sir, I seek admittance to the audiences being offered to seers and magicians. DRTUNA : % Seer? Magician? You look a bit overfed for that line of work! DRTUNA : % A true wizard is not judged by his appearance as much as his aspect. DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor flips up his thumb, it appears to be on fire : : : DRTUNA : % : : : then he snuffs it out with his other hand and it is gone. : : : DRTUNA : % Please, sir guard, you will be rewarded for introducing me, but not for delaying me. DRTUNA : % Well, wizard enough to get an audience, I imagine. DRTUNA : % Follow me, oh substance laden sage. : : : Guard smirks: : : DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor follows the guard into the audience hall. : : : SOLIA AND HER PARTY ARRIVE AT THE MARKETPLACE Sosunami : * Two guards led by Solia approach Delmin and Tegan: : DRTUNA : DanielC71 : * : : : Sees guards approach: : : DanielC71 : * Take cover! DanielC71 : * : : : throws hood over his head: : : MsTegan : * : : Crouches behind a pile of baskets, then decides to get inside of one: : Sosunami : * : : Speaking in a commanding tone: : " Guards, seize them! " : : pointing at Delmin and Tegan: MsTegan : * : : Pulls lid over top of basket: : MsTegan : * ::: Guards can't find Tegan ::: DanielC71 : * : : : Hears 'take them' order and knows he's in for it: : : Sosunami : * They are traitors to the empire, as they work with Fenric. DanielC71 : * : : : Delmin is captured by two guards: : : DanielC71 : * Fenric? You're mistaken, I've never met him! MsTegan : * : : Tegan tries not to move inside the basket: : MsTegan : * The guards walk past dragging Delmin: : DanielC71 : * I think you're making a mistake! : : : dragged away: : : Sosunami : * Basket: : Lord Erlick should be pleased with this example of a superb body. MsTegan : * : : Tegan overhears the guards and Solia's plans: : Sosunami : * Heretic! Bring him. : : In a less commanding voice to one of the guards, as I walk by the... DanielC71 : * Heretic?! MsTegan : * : : Hears something about Delmin's superb body being perfect: : MsTegan : * : : Stifles a giggle: : MsTegan : * : : Thinks perfect for what?: : DanielC71 : * : : : Tries to remember if he should impersonate a 4th century Christian or a Muslim: : : MsTegan : * : : Catches a wisp of conversation as the guards and Solia fade into the distance: : DanielC71 : * Um, has Islam been,,,, INVENTED yet? MsTegan : * Hears "A perfect body for Fenric." MsTegan : * Wonders what that means, and thinks that doesn't sound too good. MsTegan : * : : Peeks out of the basket, sees no guards, exits: : Sosunami : * Speak not, traitor! : : Thumping Delmin: : Guards, Silence him! MsTegan : * I've got to tell the Doctor! DanielC71 : * : : : Blacks out: : : MsTegan : * Think, Tegan! Which way did the Doctor go? MsTegan : * : : Turns and walks the opposite way towards the Emperor's Palace: : Sosunami : * : : Solia and her guards leave the city via hidden ways: : MsTegan : * : : Tries to look like a tourist, but her heart is thumping with worry for Delmin: : THE LEGION OF DOOM MARCHES TOWARDS ITS NEXT TARGET Drami1 : & : : march march march march march march march march march MARCH : -) : : : Drami1 : & : : the army of legions of lunatic darkness nears the tranquil coastal city of Pergamum: : Drami1 : & : : some lone remaining neuron, left unblasted by the drugs and mind control, lights up in the: : Drami1 : & : : warriors' brains as they prepare to sack Pergamum: : Drami1 : & : : the newly-zombified warriors rush towards the city, permanently on ATTACK mode: : Drami1 : & : : happy seaside vacationers run screaming as the city crumbles around them: : Drami1 : & : : the warriors decimate the local tourist industry and grab some new recruits in one stroke: : Drami1 : & : : sack sack sack, pillage pillage pillage: : Drami1 : & : : pillage sack sack pillage - and BURN! for a little variety: : Roth Starr : & : : : An old man in the village screams out- "I'm not dead yet!": : : Drami1 : & : : : villagers split like a banana under the impact of too many nuts and whipped cream, but few escape: Drami1 : & : : one warrior's lone last neuron exclaims, "'Ere, 'ee sez 'ee's not dead yet!" and the warrior: : Drami1 : & : : solves this overdone dialogue problem with a handy club: : Drami1 : & : : the warrior rides on, just part of the whole...: : Drami1 : & : : sack sack pillage SACK! The zombie soldiers ride off, satisfied, while Pergamum lies in ruin: : Drami1 : & : : behind them: : Drami1 : & : : the warriors race back 'home', all their mental and physical power focused permanently into: : Drami1 : & : : fighting and killing at Fenric's/Erlick's order: : THE DOCTOR ENTERS THE AUDIENCE HALL OF THE PALACE DRTUNA : % : : : Dr. enters room with Justus & Theodoric: : : DRTUNA : % A claimant magician seeks the tolerance of his imperial majesty. DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor bows and checks his pocket watch. : : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : Justus and Theodoric look at the Doctor: : : Theo> Really, and what kind of magician are you? DRTUNA : % I come to inform, learn from, and serve your majesty... DRTUNA : % I know much but not all ... much of the future and the past. DRTUNA : % In return, I only seek knowledge from your majesty about the present. DoctorWho8 : % Just> And what information would that be? DRTUNA : % The more I know, the more I may serve the Emperor. DRTUNA : % While we wait a brief time, I would ask a few simple questions. DRTUNA : % I am arrived from a distant world, and I only seek knowledge. DRTUNA : % What is it that your Empire could best be protected from? DoctorWho8 : % Theo> Really? Do you know anything about the Cult of Fenric? DRTUNA : % Do they use mind control and drugs? DoctorWho8 : % : : : Theo looks a Just: : : Just> Not that we know of. DRTUNA : % What is their goal? DRTUNA : % : : : A gust of wind blows the Doctor's velvet robes about. : : : DoctorWho8 : % Just> We believe that they are trying to take over the empire. DRTUNA : % Are you sure it is FENRIC? DoctorWho8 : % Yes we are sure it is Fenric. DRTUNA : % As a demonstration of my knowledge in your service... DRTUNA : % ... I bring word that a sudden and violent rain storm will come this afternoon. DRTUNA : % I suggest you secure the palace, even though this is not the rainy season. DRTUNA : % The storm will be fearsome, even though the sky is now bright. DoctorWho8 : % Theo> Really? How do you know? DRTUNA : % I am a modest wizard, your majesty, hopefully in your service against Fenric. DRTUNA : % Fenric. Do they occupy towns and villages, or just destroy them? DoctorWho8 : % They raid villages and kill a lot of people and take their bodies. DRTUNA : % : : : The wind builds, rushing in through the windows. : : : DRTUNA : % Yes, I believe of know of this Cult, your majesty. DoctorWho8 : % What they do with them, we do not know. DRTUNA : % Hark, the storm arrives! DRTUNA : DoctorWho8 : % : : : Theo and Just look outside: : : DRTUNA : % : : : The air is split by a clap of thunder, the sky is darkening. : : : DoctorWho8 : % Just> Good lord, he was right. DRTUNA : % Fear not, it will swiftly pass. Tis a freak storm, and a natural one. DoctorWho8 : % Theo> This is not a good sign. Magician, will you help us? DRTUNA : % Unlike this storm which will pass .. DRTUNA : % ... I fear the storm of Fenric is rising against the city! I offer my assistance. DRTUNA : % Emperor, may I speak to your masters of intelligence on this cult? DoctorWho8 : % Talk with Gen. Justus. He knows more about the cult than I do. DRTUNA : % : : : Rain begins to fall, the winds begin to howl. : : : DRTUNA : : : : The Doctor huddles with General Justus, exchanging information. : : : DoctorWho8 : % Just> What is it you would like to know? DRTUNA : % Is there a claim that Fenric will return to rule? DoctorWho8 : % There are rumors that Fenric might return, but I don't see how. DRTUNA : % Emperor Theodoric, there may be some devilish truth in this. DoctorWho8 : % Justus> How can this be, Fenric is not real. DRTUNA : % Fenric may soon be very real, General. DoctorWho8 : % Just> What do you mean? DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor's bracelet begins to glow. : : : DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor receives Tegan's concern in the bracelet. : : : DRTUNA : % Tegan! Come to the palace DRTUNA : % : : : The storm rages : : : DRTUNA : % General ... One of my companions seeks me. May she be admitted to tell us her news? MsTegan : % : : Hears the Doctor, and walks faster towards the palace: : DoctorWho8 : % Theo> Yes why not. You've been helpful so far. MsTegan : % : : Arrives at the palace doors: : DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor moves toward the ante-room, expectantly awaiting Tegan. : : : MsTegan : % : : Knocks on the door: : DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor sees Tegan enter. : : : DRTUNA : % Tegan! What has happened! MsTegan : % : : Enters and spots the Doctor: : MsTegan : Doctor! : : Rushes to his side: : MsTegan : % Delmin has been captured! MsTegan : % I overheard their plan for him! MsTegan : % The said they want his superb body for the new Fenric or something! DRTUNA : % Quick, let us join the Emperor. MsTegan : % : : Follows the Doctor: : DRTUNA : % My Lords, my companion has just come with frightful news. DRTUNA : % Delmin, my companion, has been kidnapped by the Cult of Fenric. DoctorWho8 : % Theo> Oh dear. There's no way of helping him now. DRTUNA : % The evil God Fenric may return in the body of my friend. MsTegan : % It's all too true. I heard them say so myself! DRTUNA : % Your majesty, I propose to rescue my friend and stagger this cult! DRTUNA : % I seek your permission to assault his captors, as well as some assistance! DRTUNA : % Your courage would be welcomed, General! DoctorWho8 : % : : : Theo looks at Just, they talk a little: : : DoctorWho8 : % Theo> We will help you. Magician. It's about time to destroy this cult for good. MsTegan : % : : Thinks to self: : Let's get on with it! DRTUNA : % Don't worry Tegan, I'm ready this time! MsTegan : % : : Wonders how the Doctor knows what she is thinking: : DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor takes his new prize from a pocket in his robe...: : : DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor has a Tardis REMOTE RECALL DEVICE. : : : DRTUNA : % My lords, if I can have your attention, please do not be alarmed at what you are about to see. DRTUNA : % : : : The Tardis materializes in the palace audience room. : : : MsTegan : % : : See the device and smiles: : You did it! DRTUNA : % : : : The crowd gasps ... now they think he's a wizard!: : : DRTUNA : % : : : The Doctor smiles : : : Well, Tegan, how's that for service? MsTegan : % : : Whispers: : You liked my idea! DRTUNA : % It was a very good idea! DoctorWho8 : % : : : Just draws sword: : : What was that?! DRTUNA : # This is my ship ... a heavenly blue stone ... with a door. Do not be afraid. MsTegan : % : : Grins at the Doctor: : It's quite an improvement! DRTUNA : % You and a small number of your finest soldiers should follow us inside. DRTUNA : % It is ... * ahem* ... bigger than it looks. DRTUNA : % : : : The violent storm begins to subside. : : : DoctorWho8 : % Theo to Just> Just do what he says. I think he knows what he is doing. MsTegan : % : : Smiles: : Wait till they get a glimpse! They'll really be impressed by your powers, Dr.! DoctorWho8 : % : : : Justus gathers a group of warriors and heads for the TARDIS: : : DRTUNA : % Tegan, can you board our passengers, please? MsTegan : % : : Gestures towards the crowd and leads them into the Tardis: ; DRTUNA : % By the way Theodoric, before I forget, clear tonight, cloudy tomorrow. Trust me. DRTUNA : % : : : The Tardis door closes behind the Doctor, Tegan, Justus, and the swordsmen he commands. : : : DRTUNA : % : : : The Tardis dematerializes. : : : DoctorWho8 : % Theo> Wish I had one of those. I'd be up there with God. DoctorWho8 : % Theo: : : thinks that he should prepare the city in case of attack: : : SOLIA AND HER THIEVES ARRIVE AT ERLICK'S CASTLE/TEMPLE WITH DELMIN Sosunami : $ : : Speaking to the Guards outside Erlick's place: : Let me speak with Erlick. Tell him I Sosunami : $ Have his Superb body. DanielC71 : $ : : : Delmin wakes up but feigns unconsciousness: : : Roth Starr : $ : : : Yelling to guards: : : Admit Solia!!! Roth Starr : $ : : : The doors open for Solia et al: : : Sosunami : $ : : To the two Thieves who where dressed as guards: : Bring him. Sosunami : $ : : Striding confidently into the Temple: : Roth Starr : $ : : : Like a child on Xmas morn: : : You have the body!!???!! Sosunami : $ : : Stepping aside to show Erlick our 'prize': : Here is your 'Perfect' body, Lord Erlick. DanielC71 : $ : : : Thinks: : : : Perfect body? That's ridiculous! Roth Starr : $ : : : Examining Delmin's err size: : : Ooh yes, he shall do indeed, so large, his proportions I mean DanielC71 : $ : : : thinks: : : I'm only an 8 out of 10. Sosunami : $ : : Motioning for the guards to haul Delmin forward to show Erlick: : Roth Starr : $ : : : licking his lips: : : yes he shall do... : : : Turning to his guards: : : tie him up DanielC71 : $ Blast... Sosunami : $ : : Watching Erlick's guards tie up Delmin: : DanielC71 : $ : : : Pulling a Houdini trick that's never worked for him before: : : Roth Starr : $ : : : To another set of guards: : : Fetch the poison! Soon we shall take Constantinople!!! DanielC71 : $ : : : Tightens his muscles to makes the ropes too big: : : Roth Starr : $ All we need is to poison their water ... Mwhahahahahahahahahahahahhhahahaha Roth Starr : $ : : : Motions to Solia: : : There is your gold, take whatever you wish, we have no more need of it Roth Starr : $ Soon shall come Fenric and then Ragnarok! Sosunami : $ : : eyes narrowing at the words Poison, but not saying anything, then gesturing for my guards Sosunami : $ to take their fill of gold before I do so: : Roth Starr : $ Now where is my poison!! DanielC71 : $ : : : Tries to slip out of the ropes. Doesn't get far: : : Roth Starr : $ : : : Several Evil Dead bring Erlick his poison: : : Soon I shall swallow all of Constantinople's souls!!! Sosunami : $ : : Wondering if me and my two guards should leave: : Sosunami : $ : : Whispering to a guard: : Sosunami : $ : : Turning to leave, as one of my guards bumps into one of the potion carriers: : Sosunami : $ : : By accident: : INSIDE THE TARDIS, THE NEW GUESTS ARE A LITTLE STARTLED MsTegan : % : : Stands back and enjoys the looks on the poor souls faces: : MsTegan : % : : Thinks: : Same thing happened to me when I first saw it too! >>>>>END SIM<<<<< ---------- Date: Thu, Nov 30, 1995 4:41 PM EST From: Sosunami Subj: Solia's Thoughts To: BenJacksn, Drami1, PrKronotis, O Sillyman, DRTUNA, MsTegan, Cybermen@interport.net, DoctorWho8, ProfG Whiz, Tendrillia, ValyardWho, Zeezorum, DErv Daen, Chessene, Sosunami I saw the Lord Erlick today, and provided him with a certain Superb body. However, I have fears about what he intends to do, both with the person I brought to him, and to his goals for the future. He intends, I believe, to poison the water supply for Constantinople, and in doing so, many of my people. Perhaps he bodes ill for the rest of the world as well. My plan to capture a superb body went farely well. Most of the townspeople will suspect only that the strange one and his companion are traitors to the Empire, and think nothing of thier removal. However, we were able to capture only one of them, the other, the woman, got away. This is the first time that someone has gotten away from me. No matter, there is little harm she can do. She should be the last, after this, I will be set for life. We were paied very well for the tall one. I still wonder if Erlick has my best interests at heart; If all of the empire falls, then there will be nowhere for me to enjoy my 'retirement'. Needless to say, I had Rean 'borrow' a small flask of the poison, so that we may attempt to find a cure before the poisoning takes place. At this point, I think it may be best if we left here. Not many places scare me as much as this, and it is better that I not be here, should Erlick decide that I should be the next in his long line of sacrifices to his 'god'. ---------- Date: Sat, Dec 2, 1995 7:49 AM EST From: MsTegan Subj: Tegan's Log 11-29-95 To: BenJacksn, Chessene, cybermen@interport.net, DanielC71, DErv Daen, DoctorWho8, Drami1, DRTUNA, O Sillyman, PrKronotis, ProfG Whiz, Sosunami, Tendrillia, ValyardWho, Zeezorum, WV Ace, KSmith6236, EdDrWho I'm worried about Delmin. He's been carted off by some insane people who seem to be overly excited about his "perfect body." Well, granted, he may have a perfect body, but does that make it okay to just drag the guy off? I'm so mad at myself for just sitting there and letting it happen! Delmin would have put up a fight for me. And how do I return the favor? By just staying put, quaking in a basket, not lifting a finger to help him! I could lie to myself and say that it was my plan all along to go find the Doctor and bring back help. The plain ugly truth is that I was scared silly. I've got to find him and make sure he's okay. The guy deserves better than this. ---------- Tardis timecode: zx44.23a.777201.rel We are on Earth, the location Constantinople in Asia Minor, the date is March, 344 AD. I have come here because I must. In 1944 Ace and I vanquish Fenric, an evil force from the dawn of time. When that happens, Fenric obviously knows me, and indicates that we have met before, at about this time, and at about this place. In that meeting we play a chess match which I win, condemning him to isolation in a special flask. He told me all of this. Good thing, otherwise I would not have known. I even know where Fenric has come from -- the matrix records I have just received make this clear -- from Shada. Though not a Timelord, he was imprisoned there and escaped during my ill-fated adventure at the prison planet of the Timelords. So, I thought I would just drop in and tidy him up. I know I win, and I know I triumph over him in 1944, all I have to do is get him to play a chess match with me, and off he goes. There really is very little risk. To me. Damn my self-centered nature! Safe for me, but what about Tegan and Daniel? I forgot about them! They should have stayed aboard the Tardis, or be on some vacation planet, but not here, in Fenric's way! Now, Daniel has been kidnapped by the Cult of Fenric. I should immediately ask Tegan to stay in the Tardis while I attempt to rescue him, but I doubt that she will agree to that. I started this thinking it was a simple task of temporal housekeeping and an easy way to catch one of the Shada escapees, and now I have put many others at risk. And what if I fail to lure Fenric into the chess match? What then? I might be the cause of the shattering of the timestream myself. If Fenric rules Constantinople, it could change Earth's history irreparably. I must stop being so blasˇ and start focusing more. Just when I think things will be easy, all is put at risk! I need to face the fact that this will be as difficult as any of my other recent scrapes. ---------- THE CULT OF FENRIC, PART 2 The New Adventures of Doctor Who America Online, 12/6/95 8: 01: 20 PM >>>* DIT* The image of DRTUNA dissolves into the image of the spinning TARDIS<<< >>>>>>The New Adventures of Doctor Who<<<<<< >>>>>>>>>>>>The Cult of Fenric<<<<<<<<<<<<<< >>>>>>>>>>>>>>BEGIN SIM<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< DANIEL DELMIN IS BEING HELD CAPTIVE BY ERLICK, HIGH PRIEST OF FENRIC, IN HIS MOUNTAIN TEMPLE-FORTRESS DanielC71 : * : : : All tied up: : : Roth Starr : * MWhahahahahahahahahaha DanielC71 : * rope and evil laughter seem to go together, don't they? Roth Starr : * : : : Comes down from his chair towering above everything else to look right at Delmin: : : Roth Starr : * You, dear sir, do not know the half of it DanielC71 : * : : : Studies the fabric in Erlick's costume: : : Roth Starr : * And I seriously doubt that you will ever know DanielC71 : * This early Turkish doesn't suit you. DanielC71 : * What do you think of plaid? Roth Starr : * For soon your soul shall be replaced by that of a greater being DanielC71 : * Greater being... Is Elvis in the house? Roth Starr : * : : Snicker: : That's right keep in good humor, for you shant live much longer DanielC71 : * That's right. I keep in good humor until I'm fried and then watch out! Roth Starr : * What do you know of Elvis, blasphemer! DanielC71 : * Some geek who preceded the Beatles in the 20th century. Roth Starr : * You know not of Fenric or his long lost brother Elvis and their neighbor the Anti-Elvis DanielC71 : * Do you get any call for Elvis records in the 3rd century? DanielC71 : * Well I never could stand Anti-Elvis. You had to play all of his records backwards. Roth Starr : * You speak in strange tongues sir, perhaps I might have your tongue as something to remember you by DanielC71 : * I can think of uglier momentos. Roth Starr : * I'll hang it on my out of fashion belt : : : Pulls a long curved dagger from his belt: : Roth Starr : * : : : Suddenly one of Erlick's guards taps him on the shoulder: : : DanielC71 : * God, get RID of the sashes and belts, man! This isn't the dark ages! Roth Starr : * Well hello Mr.. fancy pants, the king of fashion Roth Starr : * If didn't need your body I have endless fun doing nasty things to it with random anomaly DanielC71 : * How often have I thought the same thing? Roth Starr : * Hmph, I like burlap, course and strong, yet soft and yielding, just like my women DanielC71 : * You like your women breathing... Roth Starr : * That's optional DanielC71 : * Gross. Roth Starr : * : : Guard: : Sir the Army of Darkness is approaching Constantinople, shall they attack? DanielC71 : * : : : to Guard: : : Tell them to rot until they drop alive! Roth Starr : * : : Erlick: : Ignore being who's Eulogy will be "evolution in action" tell the Army to upgrade Roth Starr : * status to Murder, Death, Kill DanielC71 : * Or at least to fold, spindle, and mutilate. DanielC71 : * No one with a useless body would be a soldier under MY command! Roth Starr : * : : : Guard: : : Very well, the Army shall march on Constantinople DanielC71 : * And tell them NOT to attack Istanbul again! ! Roth Starr : * Constantinople, its not Istanbul at the moment DanielC71 : * So tell me... Does an Army of Darkness carry a lot of dead weight? Roth Starr : * Do you have friends? I should think not. Roth Starr : * Those puns hurt you know. Stab real deep. DanielC71 : * You wouldn't, Mr. Burlap Necro. DanielC71 : * Erlick, if you can't beat an Army of the dead, join them. Roth Starr : * Mwhahahahahaha if you only knew my dear soon to be fiend, what role that fates have for you Roth Starr : * You'd be hesitant annoying me so DanielC71 : * If I wanted to be annoying, I'd tell you to sell once your IQ hit 50. Roth Starr : * Do you know the main reason not to piss me off? DanielC71 : * You're ugly and your momma dresses you funny? Roth Starr : * Ha. No it's because you're tied up and I'm not : : Begins to savagely tickle Delmin: : : Roth Starr : * Fetch the comfy chair! ! ! ! ! DanielC71 : * Not ticklish... sorry. DanielC71 : * Comfy what? Roth Starr : * : : : Guard: : : Not the Comfy Chair? Roth Starr : * Yes bring it in! ! Roth Starr : * : : The guards leave and return with the Comfy Chair: : : Roth Starr : * We shall see who's laughing now DanielC71 : * It's not who laughs and who doesn't, it's whose voice is the most annoying. Roth Starr : * : : : The guards set Delmin lightly down in the Comfy Chair: : Now you shall stay their till your ready Roth Starr : * for possession Roth Starr : * now shut up and smile or I'll kill you DanielC71 : * Well if you want me to shut up I can shut up I'm not one of those people who doesn't shut up when DanielC71 : told to shut up! Roth Starr : * Do you speak this way to your mother? THE DOCTOR, TEGAN, GENERAL JUSTUS AND A FEW OF HIS IMPERIAL GUARD ARE IN THE TARDIS DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor is navigating the Tardis. : : : MsTegan : # : : Tegan is worrying about Delmin: : DRTUNA : # : : : The Tardis rematerializes just outside...: : : DRTUNA : # : : : ... the Mountain Stronghold of the Cult of Fenric. : : : MsTegan : # Hurry, Doctor! DRTUNA : # Well, here we are. I want to do a more accurate scan first,.. DRTUNA : # ... find out just where Delmin is and who is with him. DRTUNA : # Care for a bit of a recon? : : : The Doctor opens the Tardis door and steps out. : : : MsTegan : # Oh all right, but hurry on with it! DRTUNA : # General, perhaps you can advise us on this structure? Follow me. MsTegan : # : : Almost knocks the Doctor and General over in her hurry to find Delmin: : IN HIS PALACE, EMPEROR THEODORIC PONDERS THE STATE OF HIS EMPIRE DoctorWho8 : % : : : ponders on events that are currently going on: : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : sits down at desk and notices a new paper on it: : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : it states that there is an increase in people dying of unknown causes: : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : Theo thinks that a curse has been put on his city because people are dying for no reason: : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : he calls in the guard from outside and tells him to fetch the Chief Healer: : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : The Chief Healer arrives and the doors close behind him: : : DoctorWho8 : % Chief Healer> You requested my presence, your majesty? DoctorWho8 : % Theo> Yes. The matter I need to talk to you about is the sudden increase of unknown deaths. DoctorWho8 : % Chief H.> Ah yes. DoctorWho8 : % Theo> What are your theories on this problem? DoctorWho8 : % Chief H.> Well, your majesty, it is very difficult to figure out what is killing all these people. There are no symptoms of illness or disease or any kind of fatal wounds. It's as if... DoctorWho8 : % Theo> As if what? DoctorWho8 : % Chief H.> As if their soul was taken from them. DoctorWho8 : % Theo> I see. Do whatever you can to try and stop this or at least slow it down. Whatever it is... DoctorWho8 : % it must be stopped. I pray to God that he saves us all. You may go now, Chief Healer. DoctorWho8 : % Chief H.> Yes, your majesty. : : : leaves room: : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : Theo contemplates what all these deaths could mean: : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : Could they be the beginning of the end of the Empire? Or could they mean that someone... or something is coming back, perhaps the Devil?: : : SOLIA, PRINCESS OF THIEVES, AND HER PARTY CARRY BAGS OF GOLD OUT OF THE TEMPLE FORTRESS OF FENRIC Sosunami : @ : : Backing slowly out of the main hall in the temple, followed by my two 'Guards': : Sosunami : @ " Lets go, you two. We've got what we came for. And a bit more. Saif, keep a hold of your Sosunami : @ Package. : : Turning on my heel with my own bags, and beginning to flee the temple: : Sosunami : @ : : Jogging down the hallways of the temple, nodding and smiling at Fenric's guards, and Sosunami : @ hoping that they don't decide to stop us: : Sosunami : @ : : Skidding to a stop as a guard steps around the corner that we're heading toward, then Sosunami : @ slipping smoothly by him(it?) followed by Solia and the other guard: : " Pardon us. " Sosunami : @ Running out the open doors of the front of the temple, turning and glancing at Saif..: : Sosunami : @ " Come on, clumsy oaf. " : : then running the rest of the way down the hill: : Sosunami : # : : Pausing as Saif stumbles over some random branch: : Hurry up. If Erlick decides that Sosunami : # we're next on his list, it could be us as well as that stranger in his grasps. THE TARDIS HAS LANDED ON A MOUNTAINSIDE NEAR AN IMPOSING STRUCTURE DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor stands outside the Tardis and looks up....: : : DRTUNA : # at the looming stronghold perched precariously on a mountain. : : : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor uses his pocket watch (hidden in his robes) to scan the edifice. : : : MsTegan : # : : Follows the Doctor's gaze, and gasps at the imposing looking fortress: : DRTUNA : # Yes, Tegan, he is in a holding area near the center of the building. MsTegan : # Great! How on earth will we ever get him out of that thing? DRTUNA : # He is alive and well, but who knows for how long. DRTUNA : # Well, I'm glad that we are using these bracelets! MsTegan : # Well, that's good to hear at least. DRTUNA : # I think we should try a Tardis attack! DRTUNA : # Tegan, we may be able to take them by surprise and land right next to him. MsTegan : # : : Slaps self on forehead: : Why didn't I think of that? DRTUNA : # A low level sonic field may help create confusion. We will need to act fast! DRTUNA : # I would suggest that you stay in the Tardis when we land, but.... MsTegan : # Then let's get on with it! : : Races back into the Tardis: : MsTegan : : : Stops short: : What me stay inside? DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor calls to Tegan : : : WAIT! DRTUNA : # We need a plan first! MsTegan : # You can just forget it, Doctor! I don't need any plan! Delmin needs us NOW! ! DRTUNA : # You go to him, slit his bonds (get laser probe) and I'll deal with his captors. DRTUNA : # Then, back into the Tardis before they know what hit them! MsTegan : # Okay, okay! ! ! Let's get on with it! DRTUNA : # Damn, Tegan, I feel responsible for this. DRTUNA : # This gambit may be safe for me, but I have been remiss as regards you and Daniel! MsTegan : # I'm the one who let him down, Doctor! MsTegan : # I just hid and let them take him! MsTegan : # I didn't even try to stop them! MsTegan : # I've got to make it up to him! He's saved me time and time again! DRTUNA : # Daniel would go in to save us, we must do the same! MsTegan : # Exactly! You understand what I'm trying to say! THE LEGION OF DOOM, ERLICK'S ARMY OF ZOMBIES, IS IN ACTION Drami1 : $ : : meanwhile... the zombie army marches along mindlessly, leaving a path of dead trees, trampled: : Drami1 : $ : : The guard sent from Erlick runs up, a masterpiece of speed and agility, and delivers the: : Drami1 : $ : : order to Murder, Death, Kill: : Drami1 : $ : : the army pauses only long enough to murder death kill him and leave his body to fertilize the: : Drami1 : $ : : hillside, then they aim towards Constantinople and shift into overdrive: : THE DOCTOR, TEGAN, AND JUSTUS SEE A PARTY APPROACHING THEM ON THE MOUNTAINSIDE DRTUNA : # Who is that? : : : The Doctor sees Solia and her thieves. : : : MsTegan : # They look like the thugs that nabbed Delmin! MsTegan : # Be on your guard, Doctor! Sosunami : # : : Pausing as Saif stumbles over some random branch: : Hurry up. If Erlick decides that Sosunami : # we're next on his list, it could be us as well as that stranger in his grasps. DRTUNA : # You have just come from the stronghold, yet you are not of the Cult? Who are you? MsTegan : : : Picks up several stones and slips them into her pocket, unnoticed by the Dr.: : MsTegan : # : : Stands back a bit and fingers one of the stones in her pocket: : Sosunami : # Skidding to a stop, mouth falling open at the sight of the other strange one and yet another Sosunami : # one. : : MsTegan : # : : Grabs stone tightly, still in pocket: : Sosunami : # Glancing at Saif: : I thought I told you to deal with that one. : : looking very annoyed: : DRTUNA : # I need information. I seek a finely built friend of mine, Daniel Delmin. Have you seen him? MsTegan : # What's your problem? Didn't expect to see me again so soon did you? : : Angry voice: : Sosunami : # : : Turning back to the Doctor: : Look, sir. All I know is that there is a madman in that Sosunami : # place up there who may be planning to destroy my home, and somehow the other one... hmm, Sosunami : # her friend, : : pointing to Tegan: : is somehow a major part of it all. I have no intention DRTUNA : # You really must warn the city! Prepare for attack ! Tegan and I must do something more first! Sosunami : # of joining any of Erlick's zombie guards, nor being poisoned with the rest of the city. MsTegan : # Keeps one hand in her pocket and the other one clenched around a rock: : DRTUNA : # Farewell, and good luck. We will join you when we can. DRTUNA : # Well, Tegan, this is where you and I come in. DRTUNA : # How about a surprise visit for Daniel's ungracious hosts! MsTegan : It's about time! ! : : keeping a wary eye on the thugs: : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor takes Tegan's hand and heads into the Tardis. : : : DRTUNA : # I miss Ben, but we are all we have...and we are enough! Come on Tegan, time for action! MsTegan : # : : Is embarrassed that the Dr. might see she's holding rocks: ; Sosunami : # : : Shrugging: : Saif, come on. Let's at least tell Theodoric that the army's about to come Sosunami : # knock his door in. DRTUNA : # : : : The Tardis dematerializes. : : : THE DOCTOR AND TEGAN PREPARE TO LAND THE TARDIS WHERE DELMIN IS BEING HELD MsTegan : # I'm more than ready! Let's go! ! : : slips rocks into pockets: : MsTegan : # : : Rushes out of the Tardis: : IN THE MOUNTAIN FORTRESS TEMPLE OF FENRIC, DELMIN IS HELD CAPTIVE BY HIGH PRIEST ERLICK DRTUNA : * : : : The Tardis rematerializes in the room where Delmin is being held. : : : DanielC71 : * oh look! An anachronism! DRTUNA : * : : : The zombie guards seem stunned and confused.: : : DRTUNA : * : : : The Tardis door springs open, and out pops the Doctor. : : : Roth Starr : * : : : Runs to the TARDIS: : : Mmmmm, Anachronism.... MsTegan : * : : rushes out of the Tardis as the doors whoosh open: : DRTUNA : * : : : The Doctor activates a device creating a sonic field to confuse Delmin's captors. : : : MsTegan : * : : Runs to Delmin: : DRTUNA : * : : : The bracelets protect the Tardis crew.: : : Roth Starr : * : : : Confused: : : Who that heck are you? DanielC71 : * Tegan, untie me? : : : smiles: : : DRTUNA : * I command you to attention! Prepare for a message from your master! Listen and hear! MsTegan : * : : slits bonds with knife: : DRTUNA : * Hurry, I'm not sure how much even a zombie will fall for this. MsTegan : * Knives work better Delmin! DanielC71 : * : : : The ropes are cut: : : DRTUNA : * Quickly! Into the Tardis! MsTegan : * Grabs Delmin and a laser probe and rushes back to the Tardis with both: : DanielC71 : * : : : Gets up: : : Shall we? Roth Starr : * : : : To the guards: : : Get them! ! Stop them! Don't just stand there incapacitated by the Deus Ex Machina! DRTUNA : * : : : The Doctor helps Tegan with Daniel. : : : MsTegan : * : : pushes Delmin into the Tardis: : No time for niceties! DRTUNA : * : : : The Doctor shouts to the guards as he follows Tegan and Daniel into the Tardis: : : : DRTUNA : * And now for something completely different! DRTUNA : * : : : The Doctor shuts the Tardis door. : : : DRTUNA : * : : : The Tardis dematerializes. : : : INSIDE THE TARDIS, THE DOCTOR AND TEGAN ARE WITH A NEWLY RESCUED DELMIN DanielC71 : # ;: : in the TARDIS: : : Whew! MsTegan : # : : Hugs Delmin around the neck: : DRTUNA : # Daniel, are you all right! I am so sorry... DanielC71 : # : : : Hugs Tegan. Turns to DR. and says: : : And now for something completely different? MsTegan : # I'm so glad you're okay! DRTUNA : # Just trying to confuse, them, Tegan. DanielC71 : # Thanks! I was in trouble there for a minute but you came on time! DRTUNA : # I am so glad you are safe! But many more are not! DanielC71 : # They have an army of undead DanielC71 : # And they wanted my body for some... thing to possess. DRTUNA : # The Cult of Fenric is on the move. We met a woman, a leader of the thieves, who claims... DanielC71 : # : : : Delmin pantomimes a zombie for Tegan's edification: : : DRTUNA : # ...that Fenric is about to occupy a human body and lead his army in conquest of Constantinople. MsTegan : # Oh! Like in that Michael Jackson video! I get it! DanielC71 : # Good grief! DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor listens as he sets the coordinates for their next stop. : : : DanielC71 : # Michael Jackson.... yech... DRTUNA : # What is with all this pop culture? MsTegan : # Hey! Don't tell me you don't like Michael Jackson? DanielC71 : # Tegan' obsessed with it. It must be her delinquent 20th century lifestyle. MsTegan : # : : pokes Delmin in the ribs: : You're just jealous that's all! DRTUNA : # I understand that, but now we need to act to stop Fenric! DanielC71 : # How? DRTUNA : # : : : The Tardis materializes on the battlements of Constantinople. : : : DRTUNA : # : : : The Dr. raises the view screen: : : MsTegan : # I'm sorry, Doctor. How can we help? MsTegan : # : : Looks out the view screen and exclaims: : Look at the size of that army! DanielC71 : # I can't count them all... DRTUNA : # The city is about to fall, Fenric's legions are going to break through. MsTegan : # How on earth can we hope to stop something like that, Dr.? DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor rises on tiptoe and points upward! : : : MsTegan : # : : Looks up: : DRTUNA : # No, no, looking up was simply a dramatic move! DRTUNA : # A risky gambit, but I gamble on Fenric's arrogance! DanielC71 : # If he's anything like Erlick, it sounds like a safe bet! IF he doesn't destroy you outright first! MsTegan : # To Delmin> He sounds like he knows this Fenric guy! DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor works at the console, then steps back. : : : DanielC71 : # to Tegan> Who knows? DRTUNA : # I have thrown up a force field around the city. MsTegan : # to Delmin> I hate it when he doesn't let us in on all he knows DRTUNA : # Fenric's troops are locked out, and we are locked in! DRTUNA : # Just the way I want it! Now to break the impasse! DanielC71 : # What can we do? DRTUNA : # We should join our allies on the battlements! MsTegan : # : : Stamps foot: : You're not telling us what's going on Doctor! DRTUNA : # Don't worry, I'll take all the risks from here on out! DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor opens the door and steps outside. : : : MsTegan : # : : FUMES: : I HATE IT WHEN HE SAYS THAT! DanielC71 : # Let's go and see if we can't stop him killing himself. : : : Walks out of the TARDIS: : : ERLICK IS IN HIS MOUNTAIN FORTRESS TEMPLE Roth Starr : * I hate it when this happens Roth Starr : * I try to be a good master villain, I even get the laugh right and look how they treat me Roth Starr : * No respect. It's a disgrace I say Roth Starr : * I work so hard at what I do and not even a card Roth Starr : * All they do is foil my plots Roth Starr : * I'm going to pout now Roth Starr : * : : : Ceremoniously pouts: : : SOLIA IS IN THE LAIR OF THE THIEVES GUILD Sosunami : ! Saif... Take this vial of the poison to the Theodoric, and ask him if there is anything Sosunami : ! the thieves guild may do. Sosunami : ! Also inform him that it may be the poison in this vial that is the cause of the deaths. Sosunami : ! Saif nods, the rushes off BENEATH THE EARTH, THE SPIRIT OF FENRIC RISES Roth Starr : @ : : : Somewhere in the Umbra Fenric is getting bored and decides hell take Erlick's body: : : Roth Starr : @ : : : Which is conveniently in a state of pouting making it easy for Fenric to override it's soul: : : IN THE PALACE OF EMPEROR THEODORIC Sosunami : % : : One of Theo's Guards knocks on his door: : Sir, there's a young man... a street rat, who Sosunami : % wishes to see you. Should I have him tossed in with the others? DoctorWho8 : % : : : He says a prayer to God to protect all in his Empire and the help stop the evil that is to come: : Sosunami : % Saif taps his foot, waiting for Theo.'s Guard to come back and tell him weather or not Sosunami : % he can see the Theodoric, knowing why he didn't vote for the guy anyway. DoctorWho8 : % : : : Theo opens the door to leave and sees someone standing there: : : DoctorWho8 : % Can I help you? Sosunami : % Saif: Yes sir. I have been sent to tell you that the deaths may be caused my this, : : hands Sosunami : % Vial to Theo: : A poison, and The cult of Fenric. Solia also sends her regards, and asks Sosunami : % If she may help. Sosunami : % As well as how she may help. DoctorWho8 : % So this is what has been killing my people. I thank you and your Solia. Tell her to come here... Sosunami : % Saif smile: : The Head of the Thieves Guild would hardly agree to seeing you where she is Sosunami : % not exactly welcome, sir. DoctorWho8 : % Well, she is welcome now thanks to her help. Sosunami : % In fact, she'd prefer to stay out of the hands of your guards. : : He grins: : Sosunami : % I will deliver your message. I do not know if she will come. If she will not, perhaps you Sosunami : % would consent to a meeting on the battlements. DoctorWho8 : % Tell her she will not come to any harm what so ever if I have any say in it which I do. Sosunami : % Saif bows, and departs, off to find Solia. : : DoctorWho8 : % : : : heads for Chief Healer's room so he can start making an antidote for the poison: : : DoctorWho8 : # : : : Theo makes it outside and sees what is going on: : : THE LEGION OF DOOM IS AT THE WALLS OF CONSTANTINOPLE Drami1 : $ : : the soldiers descend on Constantinople, pillaging and burning happily: : Drami1 : $ : : The roman troops, with Justus, defend their land, but are sadly outnumbered: : Drami1 : $ : : The Legions of zombies kill kill kill and burn: : Drami1 : $ : : One of the zombies expertly slashes at Justus' side: : Drami1 : $ : : The tide of war slowly turns toward the zombies' favor: : THINGS ARE BEGINNING TO CHANGE FOR HIGH PRIEST ERLICK Roth Starr : * : : : The space-time of the room begins to distort as something begins to push its way into our world: : : Roth Starr : * : : : The energy surges into Erlick's body which falls to the floor spasming: : : Roth Starr : * : : : The temple explodes in a flash of paradox: : : Roth Starr : * : : : When the smoke clears a single figure is left standing in the rubble: : : Roth Starr : * : : : His face is hidden in the shadows and smoke except for smile which can be seen like the calm Roth Starr : * before the storm: : : Roth Starr : * : : : The beings raises his arms to the heavens and cries out: : : Roth Starr : * Hail to the king baby! ! ! Roth Starr : * : : : : Lightening strikes the being and an eerie laughter pervades the air: : : : Roth Starr : * I am Fenric, and darn it, I'm OK Roth Starr : * : : : Fenric points at the sky and lighting streaks from his finger tips: : : Roth Starr : * : : : The bolt strikes the fading sun and a wave of fire flies down it back towards Fenric hitting him Roth Starr : * like bad fruit cake: : : Roth Starr : * : : : Fenric begins to chant in something not unlike Machine Code and the Fire is formed into a chariot: Roth Starr : * : : Fenric steps onto the chariot and begins to fly off into the night: : : Groovy! ! ! Roth Starr : * : : : Fenric, like a meteor flies through the sky till he crashes in front of Constantinople: : : ON THE WALLS OF CONSTANTINOPLE Drami1 : # : : the zombies hack mindlessly away at everything around the force field, now oblivious to the lack: : Drami1 : # : : : of fresh new killing going on: : DRTUNA : # : : The Dr. is outside, on the walls, looking down at the now discontinued battle. : : : DRTUNA : # : : : Below, the Legion of Doom is unable to break the force field created by the Tardis. : : : Drami1 : # : : some of the zombies just bang away at the force field with their swords, others mill around: aimlessly: : MsTegan : # : : Grumbles and follows Delmin out : : I may kill him first DRTUNA : # Well, this should be unacceptable to Fenric. I imagine he'll be arriving any time now. DanielC71 : # : : Throws rocks on zombies' heads: : : MsTegan : # : : Flings a rock at the zombies, but it just bounces off the force field: : DRTUNA : # Yes, this should get his attention. DRTUNA : # I always liked flat stones, but prefer skipping them on a pond or lake. MsTegan : # : : Glares at the Doctor: : DanielC71 : # I like cheese.. MsTegan : # Are you going to let us in on how to help in this crisis or are you playing some kind of a MsTegan : # game? DRTUNA : # Yes, Tegan, a game, but a deadly game, and only I can play. MsTegan : # Fine then! : : Frustrated decides to go for a walk along the battlement: : DRTUNA : # Let's keep our eyes out for his arrival. Will it be Fenric or his thug? DanielC71 : # : : : Point to meteor: : : DRTUNA : # Ah, Fenric. DRTUNA : # There he is, human in body only. I predict he has a demand. IN AND AROUND THE MAIN GATES OF CONSTANTINOPLE Roth Starr : # : : : The fire and smoke fade and Fenric stands ready to lead his troops: : : Come on you miserable bags of bones! Roth Starr : # : : : To the Legions of Doom: : : Is there some reason you haven't slaughtered everyone yet? Roth Starr : # It's not as if I have all day, I'm a busy God you know Drami1 : # : : the legions look at him blankly: : DRTUNA : # Oh Fenric, remember me? In your castle? DRTUNA : # : : : The Dr. shouts: : : DRTUNA : # You cannot break through, Fenric. Care to go back to Shada? Roth Starr : # : : : Whips around, SHOUTS: : : YOU! ! ! What are you doing here! ! ! DRTUNA : # I am here for you, Fenric. I am your past and your future. You are my present. Roth Starr : # Well Hello Mr. Fancy Pants! ! DRTUNA : # Insult all you want, spawn of chaos, but we have reached an impasse! Roth Starr : # I tell you what, lets make a deal... Sosunami : # : : Moves quietly along the battlements, shaking had at the army. : : Next time, I don't deal with cults. MsTegan : # : : Fingers rocks in pockets and wishes she could pound someone with them! : : Sosunami : # Pulling my cloak around me tighter, and glancing around, spotting Saif: : Sosunami : # Exchanging messages with him, then back to my watching the army: ; DRTUNA : # Play a simple game of chess with me. If you win you get me.... Roth Starr : # A game you say? Roth Starr : # You die, and I feast on your carcass. How's that sound? DRTUNA : # You get my body, and the force field will come down, and Constantinople will be yours. Roth Starr : # And if you win? DRTUNA : # If I win, I will get you.... DanielC71 : # Doctor, this sounds very risky! DRTUNA : # You will be imprisoned in the Shadow Dimensions for many centuries, but not forever. DRTUNA : # Chess, perhaps. You know it? Roth Starr : # Mwhahahahahahahaha MsTegan : : : Sits on the Battlement, and kicks legs over the edge: : Sosunami : : : Positioning myself as close to Fenric as the battlements allow, and balancing a throwing Knife in my hand under my cloak: : MsTegan : # : : Sees Solia fumbling under her cloak: : Roth Starr : # Your body... hmmm yes I think this is a good game Roth Starr : # Let us begin! ! ! Roth Starr : # : : : Fenric suddenly appears beside the Doctor.: : : DoctorWho8 : # : : : Theo makes it outside and sees what is going on: : : Roth Starr : # Have you the pieces to which I shall seal your fate? DRTUNA : # # : : : The Doctor reaches into his pocket and pulls out a few bones and begins... DRTUNA : # : : : to carve some of them rapidly into crude chess pieces. : : : DRTUNA : # : : : Incredibly, the Doctor has carved the pieces within a few moments.: : : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor also takes the white knight given him DRTUNA : # ...: : : by the Gamester out of his pocket and adds it to the set.: : : Sosunami : # Now Fenric's right here, tossing the hood of my cloak back and shouting at him Sosunami : # Voice cold: : Die, Killer. : : Throwing the knife at Fenric: : Roth Starr : # Oh please : : : Points at Solia's knife and it disintegrates in mid-air: : : Roth Starr : # : : : Points at Solia and a sonic blast sends her flying backwards through the air: : : Sosunami : # : : eyes going wide at the disintegration of my knife: : Sosunami : # : : Falling backwards off the battlements: : Sosunami : # : : Bouncing off of a wood roof, and then hits the ground, not moving... Saif and misc. Sosunami : # Other thieves from the guild come running up: : DoctorWho8 : # : : : wonders what is going on. Sees Solia get blasted and Theo goes to her aid: : : MsTegan : # : : Sees the action and tries not to be interested: : DRTUNA : # Fenric, can you create a playing board for us? DanielC71 : # : : : Stands nervously: : : Roth Starr : # Oh, why certainly Doctor, anything for a friend Roth Starr : # : : : Points at three guards and they scream as they are slowly transmogrified into a board of living Roth Starr : flesh: : : DRTUNA : # : : : The pieces are placed on the board engineered by Fenric. : : : MsTegan : # : : Takes a rock and flicks it at the Zombies one more time: : DRTUNA : # At least you could wish me luck! DanielC71 : # Um... good luck. Are you sure about this? MsTegan : : : Sniffs, but doesn't answer the Doctor: : DRTUNA : # If I fail, the Tardis will take you home. K-9 will see to it. DRTUNA : # I must face my future. It is mine alone. DanielC71 : # Oh... good. You wouldn't consider just living through this, would you? DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor to Daniel : : : If I win, throw down one of these lamp oil urns. DanielC71 : # OK. DRTUNA : # No time for small talk, Fenric. Your move! Roth Starr : # As always Doctor, as always : : : Fenric points at the board and the flesh rises to move Fenric's piece Roth Starr : # Check Doctor DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor concentrates on the game. : : : Roth Starr : # Can you survive? DoctorWho8 : # Checks Sofia> My lady, are you all right? Sosunami : # : : Unconscious, and not breathing very well... is bleeding slightly from the ears: : Roth Starr : # : : : Pauses quickly to look at Solia: : Ooh that's gotta hurt : : Turns back to the game: : DoctorWho8 : # : : : checks Solia's pulse: : : I'm afraid she is gone. : : : says prayer: : : DoctorWho8 : # Or maybe not. DoctorWho8 : # My lady, are you hurt badly? DRTUNA : # : : : The moves come quickly...one right after the other.: : : DRTUNA : # The Doctor pauses little, moving immediately after Fenric. : : : Roth Starr : # Well Doctor, the game is at hand? MsTegan : # : : : : Flicks a rock at Delmin: : DanielC71 : # : : : Is tempting to toss Tegan down to zombies: : : MsTegan : # Delmin, I need to tell you something, come here. DanielC71 : # Hold on Tegan! DanielC71 : # to Tegan> One more stone my way and down you go to the zombies! MsTegan : All right, I won't throw any more rocks.. DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor stands and steps away from the game. : : : DRTUNA : # Check, Fenric, and mate in four moves...surely you see it! No escape. Roth Starr : # No Doctor, I still have a chance Roth Starr : # : : : Makes one last futile move: : : DRTUNA : # Make your move, then! You cannot escape my gambit. DoctorWho8 : # : : : to thieves: : : Someone help me take her inside to see the Chief Healer, please. Sosunami : # : : Saif and another lift Solia, and follow Theo... : : Roth Starr : # : : : Fenric growing worried, makes his move: : : DRTUNA : # Now, the final move! Knight to King's rook three! Roth Starr : # NO! ! ! DanielC71 : # You've lost Fenric! DRTUNA : # Now, you must accept our oath! You are lucky I am not sending you back to Shada! DanielC71 : # : : : Picks up oil urn...: : : DanielC71 : # : : : Throws it down as requested: : : Roth Starr : # : : : Fenric's cry of defeat rocks the very foundations of city: : : DoctorWho8 : # : : : comes back out after leaving Solia with the Chief Healer: : : MsTegan : # : : Gets up and walks towards the Tardis: : MsTegan : # : : very preoccupied: : MsTegan : # : : Walks around oil urn: : Roth Starr : # Doctor, I tell you this, maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but for the rest of your life Roth Starr : # You'll regret this. DRTUNA : # Into this urn, spawn of Chaos, but know this, you will escape, we shall meet again! Roth Starr : # I doubt it not, I doubt it not MsTegan : # : : Heads for the Tardis doors, ignoring the entire cosmos: : MsTegan : # : : Moody, moody, grumpy and then some: : MsTegan : # : : Flicks one last rock at Delmin and bolts into the Tardis: : DanielC71 : # : : : Catches rock in mid-air: : : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor suddenly feels very silly in his wizard outfit. : : : DRTUNA : # : : The Dr. turns to Theodoric. : : : Roth Starr : # : : Enters the urn screaming: : 'Till the world ends, 'Till the world ends.... DoctorWho8 : # to Doctor> What has happened, Wizard? DRTUNA : # Your highness, you must protect this urn. Store it safely. And one more request... DRTUNA : # ...please do not speak of this in your histories. DoctorWho8 : # I will do as you ask, Wizard, for I do not want this to happen again. DRTUNA : # Yes, your majesty, and now my friends and I must step away for a time. : : : DanielC71 : # Yes! Ciao! DRTUNA : # : : : The Dr. bows to Theodoric: : : DoctorWho8 : # May God bless you for all the work you have done for us. Farewell. DanielC71 : # : : : Bows and pulls Doc toward the TARDIS: : : DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor steps into the Tardis. : : : DanielC71 : # : : : Enters TARDIS: : : IN THE TARDIS DRTUNA : # : : : The Doctor steps into the Tardis. : : : MsTegan : # : : Stomps down the winding endless hallways: : MsTegan : # : : reaches her room, enters and slams door: : DanielC71 : # : : : Enters TARDIS: : : DRTUNA : $ Daniel, is Tegan inside? She wasn't once, you know. MsTegan : # SLAM : : the sound echoes all the way into the console room: : DanielC71 : $ Yes, she came in and threw a rock at me. MsTegan : : : Yells: : MEN! ! ! DanielC71 : $ I hear her rage against all with testosterone... DRTUNA : $ : : : The Tardis dematerializes. : : : DanielC71 : $ Okay, Doc, HOW did you know all this? DRTUNA : $ Daniel, I have already been in Fenric's future. He bragged about this meeting. DanielC71 : $ Ah... so you knew YOU'D be safe. DRTUNA : $ That is how I knew how to defeat him. He told me how I did it. DRTUNA : $ But I forgot it might endanger you. DRTUNA : $ You have to learn from your past, especially when it is someone else's future. DanielC71 : $ How did you know what chess move to use? DRTUNA : $ Chess, well, K-9's been coaching me! DanielC71 : $ Hmm... If you say so. MsTegan : $ : : Removes one last rock and sets it on the table by the bed: : DRTUNA : $ Now, where is Tegan? DRTUNA : $ : : : The Doctor leaves the console room. : : : MsTegan : $ : : Plops on the bed and fumes: : DanielC71 : $ : : : Watches TARDIS controls, pulls out NetLink, does some computations: : : ---------- Date: Sat, Dec 9, 1995 7:34 PM EST From: DanielC71 Subj: Delmin's log To: BenJacksn, Drami1, PrKronotis, O Sillyman, DRTUNA, MsTegan, cybermen@interport.net, DoctorWho8, ProfG Whiz, Tendrillia, ValyardWho, Zeezorum, DErv Daen, Chessene, Sosunami, WV Ace, EdDrWho Delmin's log Date: 12/9/2395 (?) Location: The TARDIS Tegan seem to be getting fed up with the Doctor's secrecy. I understand how she feels. However, I saw in him a man getting the job done. That I can sympathize with. She actually threw rocks at me! I think she has trouble expressing her feelings... As I do mine. [end] ---------- Date: Sat, Dec 9, 1995 9:15 AM EST From: MsTegan Subj: Tegan's Diary To: BenJacksn, Chessene, cybermen@interport.net, DanielC71, DErv Daen, DoctorWho8, Drami1, DRTUNA, O Sillyman, PrKronotis, ProfG Whiz, Sosunami, Tendrillia, ValyardWho, Zeezorum, KSmith6236, EdDrWho Tegan's Diary 12-5-95 Dear Diary, I don't think I've ever been so distracted. Delmin and the Doctor just frustrate me to no end sometimes. First, there's the Doctor with all his little games and secrets. He keeps me in the dark and it drives me crazy. Sometimes it makes me so mad that I just bug him until he tells me what's going on. I can be a real pest sometimes. Other times, like today, I just feel like excess baggage. I'm along for the ride on the Tardis, but what purpose do I serve? How can I help if I don't understand what is going on? I feel like I am more in the way than anything. So I decided to go and sit off to the side today. Call it a strike of sorts. I thought the Doctor's game would play itself out, without me involved. I was right. It hurt, and put me in a foul mood. Then there's Delmin. I just don't know what I feel about him. My feelings are so muddled and confusing! When he was captured and taken away I was terribly upset and worried. Upset that I had done nothing to prevent his capture, worried that I might never see him again. When we found Delmin safe and sound, I was incredibly relieved. It surprised me; the intesity of my relief. I was always happy to see Ben whenever he came back from being tied up with a rope somewhere. But this was different. When I saw Delmin, my heart sang with joy.... I can't be falling for the guy, can I? Nah. He's cute and all, but he drives me crazy more than anything. No matter what I say or feel, he seems to want to pick an argument. I can't even talk to the guy really. I wanted to apologize to him for not putting up a fight to save him when he was captured. But I found instead that I couldn't voice my feelings. So what did I do? I threw rocks at him out of frustration! That's a funny way to show a friend you care. Gad! I just want to go crawl in a hole and die. How can I ever face Delmin again? First I let him down, and then I pelt him with rocks? He probably hates my guts. If he does, it would make me incredibly sad. ---------- Tardis timecode: zx44.23a.777222.rel The Doctor is in a room in the Tardis, it is located not far from the swimming pool and the Cloister Courtyard, and contains some unusual equipment. It is the room which houses the "Prowl Program," the system the Doctor has jury-rigged to find the criminal Timelords who escaped from Shada so that they can be returned or contained. The Doctor is studying a data transmission on a large color screen, but the colors seem a bit out of balance ... reds and greens confused. The Doctor furrows his brow and finishes reading. He switches on his log program. I have just received a response from the Matrix on Gallifrey. They have received my message about Fenric being contained and seem actually pleased with me, as if I really cared. They have been active themselves, having rounded up a number of the escapees. The identity of those still at-large is now known to me. There are some dangerous gaps still, but it actually might be do-able. What once seemed impossible, repairing my failure on Shada, may be possible. I have become fixated on this quest. I have hidden my fixation from Daniel and Tegan, but it is pretty obvious. Every stop we make we face another evil challenge, and even my off hours are busy preparing (playing chess with K-9, for example, until he finally had coached me sufficiently that I could beat Fenric in a match). Tegan and Daniel have been pulled into to my obsession, and in a way that has either endangered or neglected them, neither of which is suitable. Perhaps I should divert myself from this fixation for their sake (and my own, for that matter). But I dare not. This new information indicates that the number of escapees is known. I must act before they are dispersed throughout time and space in such a way that they can never be found ... or else will only reveal themselves when they are ready and the rest of the universe is not. I've got to make Tegan and Delmin understand, or at least warn them. I was wrong to think that our last trip could have been safe just because I had a clue from Fenric's future. You can never be too well prepared. I've been thinking about bringing K-9 along ... after he is reconstructed, that is. Perhaps soon. Perhaps some new features... The new information has given me a new lead. We really need to follow it quickly. Giving up isn't an option. I am pretty stubborn in this regeneration. ----------