A Year in the Life 1/6 - January - The Hall of Fame
The Tactician was weary, he had faced such adversary, such opposition. He had fallen to his knees, he was done.He was as close to reaching the Valeyard as he could get, yet he could not summon the energy to force his way through the final lines of defence. Within touching distance of revenge and redemption, yet what was the point. Even if he could take out the rest of the Valeyard's army, what would he do then? Of course the Valeyard would be expecting him, and he would have a means to finish him off Either way, he was a sitting duck, no point it fighting when the outcome would be the same regardless. As the soldier within him left along with any hope he still possessed. His head dropped, the sound of his single heartbeat hammering in his head, his pulse was racing. He had lost, this was the end.
Two Years Earlier
1st January 2014
A man whose face is concealed is sitting in an armchair. His room is furnished with olden attire. A faint flickering lamp lights the room. On the table in front of him sits an olden style radio. He sits in silence listening to the broadcast.
Host: Hello folks. Welcome to our special New Years radio broadcast. Today I have a special guest with me in the studio. Some of you may know him as Mike Miller, or even the Tactician. Either way I'm sure you all know who I'm talking about. He's earths saviour and he has just joined me in the studio.
The Tactician: Hello
Host: I'm correct in saying this is the first public interview you have given? I'm honoured
The Tactician: Yes it is, I thought it best to let the people of Earth get to know me a little.
Host: So how does it feel to be the man who saved the planet. Tell us about that, how has it changed your life?
The Tactician: It's rather strange, I had barely adjusted to this planet and how life works here. Now I can't do anything without the media knowing.
Host: You mentioned adjustment. What have you found the biggest change?
The Tactician: Tough question. Probably the people, where I'm from people were very traditional: formal dress, daily duties and a very structured society. It amazes me the individual styles that I have seen, the daily attitude to life. Makes a pleasant change from red robes anyway.
Host: So this place where you're from..
The Tactician: Gallifrey. Yes?
Host: Why did you leave?
The Tactician: Well, it's a long story. One I don't really want to talk about now. All the information is out there, anyone who wants to know should Internet it.
Host: I think you mean Google it?
The Tactician: Probably, I still haven't got the hang of the the internet yet.
Host: Best keep you off Twitter then. So I have to ask, of all the planets you could have chosen, why Earth?
The Tactician: Honest answer, if seen photos in a book and thought it looked beautiful. When I arrived I noticed the planet in a bit of a financial problem. Earth needed money, I needed a home. I had the funds and the know how, seemed like a logical pairing at the time. So far it's turned out to be a good decision.
Host: What about your relationship with President Obama, there's been a lot in the papers on that one. Care to enlighten us?
The Tactician: He's been great to me. Honestly it's unbelievable the difference it makes settling into a new home when you have someone who is so caring and supportive of you, when they don't even really know you. He had no reason to trust me, yet he did, he gave me my chance and for that I'm eternally grateful.
Host: If recent reports are to be believed, you've severed you professional relationship with him?
The Tactician: I've resigned from my advisory role, by mutual agreement. There were too many naysayers and conspiracy theories that I was an American tool, a weapon if you like, that it became counterproductive. Now I represent the freedom of everyone and will protect Earth in the name of each and every human being out there.
Host: So you're aware of the Naysayers then? What do you make of the ones who are protesting the fact that an alien is living among them.
The Tactician: I can see their view, but you only have to look at the recent history of this planet to see that the attempted invasions have been on the rise since around 2005.
Host: I think that's their point, why should they trust anyone who isn't human?
The Tactician: Obviously I can't force them to trust me. But it's quite evident that there will be more coming here to cause trouble. That's where you need me, someone to fight your corner. Sorry, this is my home too now, I will fight our corner.
Host: Would you look at that, we are out of time. Thanks for coming down today, it's been a pleasure having you.
A Year in the Life 2/6 - March - Two Birds, One Stone
17th March 2014
Martha and the Tactician step out of the Tactician's TARDIS. They are back in London, back in the present. For her birthday, the Tactician had taken Martha back in time to see the original West End production of Les Misérables In the Barbican Arts Centre. As they walk alone the street they pass a large billboard sign saying "St Jude's: Now re-opened". They are discussing their favourite parts of the play as they walk. A thin young man bumps into the Tactician, he wears a black hoodie with an ACDC logo on front, black track bottoms with a white stripe down the side and white trainers. His hood covers his face. The Tactician thinks nothing of the encounter and they walk on a few more metres.
He suddenly realises that the man has picked his pocket, and the keys to his TARDIS and his wallet are gone. As he turns he sees the man getting into his car shaped TARDIS and making an attempt to drive off. Instead he must have hit a wrong button and the TARDIS dematerialises. The Tactician buts his head in his hands "Oh no, this isn't happening."
Martha isn't listening, her gaze is transfixed on a nearby rooftop. "That statue, I think it has moved, it was pointing the other way a minute ago"
"Thankfully I had the TARDIS' time travel abilities locked between here and 1980. He can only be there, but I've got now way of getting to him." The Tactician was ignoring Martha, and was well aware of the fact that she was ignoring him. "Martha you are not listening. TARDIS, gone!"
"Well if you'd listen to me for a moment" She reached out behind trying to hit him to attract his attention. It was difficult to do while keeping her eyes locked on the statue above. "It's a Weeping Angel"
The words hit the Tactician like a slap across the face and immediately drew his attention. "A Weeping Angel? Up there" his gaze turned upon the statue and he stared mumbling to himself, "wingspan yes, height yes, shape yes". "Right then, we've got a Weeping Angel on our hands, and no TARDIS to help. Lovely. Two major problems no solutions". He looks over at Martha. "Any ideas? Two problems, no ideas. Great! Two birds, no stones." He paused for a minute his mid deep in thought. "Oh that smart, that's really genius. Two birds, one stone. And I have the perfect stone. Martha, don't take your eyes off that angel."
He ran off, emerging a few minutes later on the rooftop beside the angel. He was talking to it, Martha stained to hear him. "You can't hunt on this planet, I won't allow it. I understand you need energy, but you can't take peoples lives. I can make you a deal, I have an energy source that will last you a lifetime. You can have it if you let me take you off this planet. What do you say? I'm going to blink now, raise one hand for a deal. Martha look away now."
He closes his eyes momentarily. When he opens them again the angel has moved. "Ok then, we a deal. But I need something first. The stone is in my ship, my ship is in 1980, and I have no way of getting there." He bit his tongue, aware of how crazy the suggestion he was about to make was. "Unless you send me back in time. I'm going to turn my back on you now, send me to 1980 and I'll come back with your power source."
When Martha looked back on the rooftop, the angel stood alone, until it was covered by the TARDIS materialising. It instantly disappeared again, taking the angel with it. A moment later it appeared in the street again, in the same position it was originally parked. The hooded young man run from it, notably terrified. A few seconds later the Tactician emerged. "Took the angel to the moon, gave it a collapsing blue giant encased in a diamond mainframe for energy." He gestured to the door. "Let's go"
A Year in the Life Part 3/6 - May - A New Companion
24th May 2014
The Tactician enters a large laboratory, it consists of several long white benches with taps for gas and water at regular intervals. At a guess it accommodates about two hundred chemists. As he walks between the benches he notices a young man working at the far corner of the room.
He is a short blonde haired man, his hair is greasy as if he hasn't washed it in days. He wears thick rimmed glasses. He is dressed in a shirt and tie, the shirt is tucked into his trousers which sit a little too high, while his tie is far too long dragging well below his trouser line. His sleeves are rolled up and he has tight rubber gloves on. At a guess he is somewhere between twenty-five and thirty years old. He is conducting done sort of chemical experiment. The Tactician approaches him.
The Tactician: Hello. I'm looking for a Mister McGuiness
Peter: Sssshhh. We are getting to the interesting part no interruptions please. And it's Doctor McGuiness.
The Tactician watches as Peter throws a lump on dull metal into the container of liquid. It immediately becomes a little ball and moves rapidly on top of the surface of the liquid. It burns with a violet flame as it travels, until it eventually burns out.
Peter: Beautiful isn't it?
The Tactician: Potassium and water. Am I right?
Peter: You know your stuff. I'm impressed.
He looks up from his experiment for the first time. Upon recognising his visitor he smiles. His name badge which is now visible reveals him to be Peter McGuiness
The Tactician: Hello I'm...
Peter: Yes Yes I am aware of who you are. I assume you are here because of the painting.
The Tactician: Painting? I'm here about a spacial disturbance.
Peter: My boss said he called you in about a painting. He made me stay here. He's too busy with the St Jude's project.
The Tactician: What's so special about a painting?
Peter: Follow me and I'll show you.
The Tactician: Lead the way.
They walk to the back of the lab, towards the staff offices. They stop at a door as Peter removes a ring of keys from his pocket. He fiddles with them trying to find the correct one to open the door.
Peter: I suspect the painting could be the the spacial disturbance you mentioned. It really is special.
The Tactician: What could be special about a painting?
Peter: You'll see in a minute. I just need to open this door.
He finally finds the correct key and gets the door open. In the office on the wall is a painting covered in drapes. Peter moves to expose the painting
The Tactician: Why do you keep it covered?
Peter: It's strange, just looking at it makes us feel uneasy. Besides we don't know what it is meant to depict. How can we appreciate it?
The Tactician: Maybe I can tell you what image it holds.
Peter: I don't really care. As long as you take it far away from here.
He removes the covering revealing the painting
The Tactician: That's impossible.
Peter: An old man in some sort of specialised wheelchair. We suspected it's from somewhere in Asia. They have technology superior to ours. But these bronze things in the background, those we have no idea about.
The Tactician: This cannot be here.
Peter: A 3-D painting, it really is exceptional isn't it. Unsettling but beautiful.
The Tactician: That's Davros, and those are Daleks. That technology, they can't have access to it. It's Time Lord.
Peter: You know that man?
The Tactician: It's not a painting, he's actually inside that. It's made by something called a stasis cube.
Peter: What scientific journal is that from? I read them all.
The Tactician: No. It's from my planet. Far more advanced tech than you could imagine. Think of it like a box, you can store stuff in it. But it takes up no space.
Peter: So like a trans-dimensional bank vault?
The Tactician: Actually that's pretty much it. That man, that thing there, his name is Davros. He created a race of killer beings, hell bend on achieving supremacy. The only thing standing in their way was my people. War was imminent.
Peter: What happened?
The Tactician: Madame Kovarian. She wiped out their entire species, using biological weaponry.
Peter: So this Madame Kovarian, she's a heroine then?
The Tactician: No that's not the full story, I don't talk about the rest. I killed her you know, I still regret that, she was evil yes. But it's not my place to deliver justice, no matter what she has done.
Peter: You said all the Daleks were wiped out. So how are there some in here?
The Tactician: They used the stasis cube to avoid it. They stole our technology, we could have used that. Why didn't I think of that.
Peter: Don't beat yourself up. Now take this painting away.
The Tactician: Oh, I'm going to take it very far away, I can't have Daleks anywhere near Earth. That painting breaks and it's hell on Earth.
The Tactician tries to remove the painting from the wall. He is struggling to carry it by himself. Peter realises this and offers to help, together they carry the painting out of the office
Peter: So where are we taking this thing?
The Tactician: Somewhere safe. We need to go to my ship first though, it's a long journey.
Peter: And where's your ship?
The Tactician: In the corner over there to the left.
Peter: Beside the Portaloo?
The Tactician: It is the Portaloo. Don't ask, it's a chameleon circuit, it takes an image which makes it look inconspicuous. I don't like the fact it's a toilet though.
Peter: We won't both fit in there.
The Tactician: Trust me, we will.
Peter: If you say so.
They enter the Tactician's TARDIS
The Tactician: See I told you we would fit. What do you think?
Peter: Reversed physics. More internal mass than external. Amazing. I'd heard theories this was possible, but didn't realise anyone had managed it. Who do you work for.
The Tactician: No one, I severed all connections to any governments. Too political.
Peter: Wise Man
The Tactician: Right, back out of the TARDIS now.
They exit the TARDIS onto a barren planet. There are no signs of life in any direction, just expanses of flat black earth, except for the cave in front of them. In the sky above where two stars in very close proximity. Between them sat a blue crystalline planets, the reflection if the rays from the stars cast a blue dancing light across the planet in which they stood.
Peter: It's more beautiful that I could have possibly imagined. This is amazing. You have a space ship.
The Tactician: It's actually a time machine too. This is a million years in the future from where we left.
Peter: Right. I assume you mean to leave the painting in the cave.
The Tactician: Exactly somewhere it will never be found. I reckon we are the only people in all of time to walk on this surface.
Peter: Let's do it then.
They leave the painting reasonably deep into the cave. Upon exiting, the Tactician withdraws his weapon and shoots the rocks above the cave. The resulting landslide seals the cave from external entry
The Tactician: It had to be done, not taking any chances.
They return to the TARDIS and are standing at the console. They are chatting
Peter: This is really wonderful. I assume it's back home now then?
The Tactician: I guess so, you have a job, you were doing experiments.
Peter: Actually I don't anymore. I quit a week ago. My weeks notice is now done.
The Tactician:Why did you quit?
Peter: I applied for the lead of the St Jude's project. I was rejected. I didn't want to work somewhere I wasn't appreciated.
The Tactician: Good for you. You know I could be doing with someone like you around. What would you say if I asked you to be a part of my team?
Peter:Yes. One hundred percent yes.
The Tactician: Well then, you're in. Off we pop.
As the TARDIS dematerialises, the planet shakes violently as a strong earthquake occurs. Inside the cave, broken glass covers the floor
Dalek: EXTERMINATE!
A Year in the Life Part 4/6 - August - Vale Doctor
Unidentified Planet, sometime far into the future
Narrator: There once was a man whose very name inspired hope into those in need. A man who stood as a beacon to all that needed help. And his name was the Doctor. There were times when his TARDIS, that famous blue box could turn an army away in fear. His enemies had many names to describe him, hailing him as a glorious fighter, an oncoming storm. Yet he always used the name, Doctor, a healer and force for good.
A hand appears in front of a screen which previously held an image of all incarnations of the Doctor. The hand taps the screen and it turns to an image of a planet, the planet is burning
Narrator: Alas, everything chances, it must sooner or late. The Doctor has abandoned his name, his morales. Instead he has adapted a new persona, a name all Time Lords know. A myth, a fairy tale villain, a figure used to guide the morality of Time Lord children. Nothing more than An idea, but one which has now become a name.
The hand pinches the screen, zooming in on a small ship. One closer inspection, it is revealed to be a blue police public call box. Standing in the door observing the planet burn is a man wearing a black suit with a black tie.
Narrator: The Doctor: in his final incarnation, or the Valeyard as he now prefers. There are people who he once shown mercy to, now they are being revisited. Time to repay a debt. The Valeyard thinks the universe has dealt him one too many bad hands. He has taken it upon himself to deliver tough justice. He stands watching the people of that planet flee. There were days where that man would have been down there leading the escape. Now he's taking joy in watching their suffering.
The hand presses a button on the screen, a film begins to play of the events
Narrator: Sometimes it is impossible to fully change. To turn away from your true roots. Observe.
The film shows one if the escaping ships burning as it passes close to the TARDIS. Children's screams can be heard and a large tear is visible in the side of the ship. It is t going to make it, all on board are doomed to die
Narrator: A crashing ship, no business of the Valeyard, or so you would think. Watch.
The Valeyard: Hold on. I'll help you.
Narrator: And so he used his TARDIS to board the ship and rescue it's passengers. He takes them somewhere safe. But watch his interaction.
The Valeyard: You are safe here.
Young Boy: My home it burnt. How can I be safe anywhere.
The Valeyard: You are alive, consider this your lucky day.
Young Boy: But my friends, my family. They are all dead. It's not fair. Can't you do something.
The Valeyard: Join the club kid. Life's not fair, it a hard lesson. Now go! Before I change my mind.
Young Boy: Thank you!
Narrator: A heart he is still the Doctor, whether he knows it or not. He is not beyond redemption.
The screen stops playing as the young boy and the Valeyard part ways. The screen is revealed to be in a room with a round table. Six young men sit dressed in red robes. The man standing at the screen talking is significantly older, he is their leader. Rassilon. Of the men at the table one wears robes of a slightly different style to the others, he is a commander.
Time Lord Commander: Are you sure this is the Doctor after planet fall?
Rassilon: Certain. You forget I was there. You were merely a young boy. The Doctor I met was frail, he was angry. It isn't too much of a stretch to think he could have become this.
Time Lord Commander: Apart from us, is he the only survivor?
Rassilon: No. There was one other. But he is unaware that we escaped safely.
Time Lord Commander: Who?
Rassilon: The Tactician. One of my best Generals. I loved him like he was a son. He was as close to that as you can get.
Time Lord Commander: Is this is same man whose story of sacrifice you based out society?
Rassilon: Yes. He thought he was giving his life to let us go free. I wasn't aware he had survived, not until recently.
Time Lord Commander: And where is he now? Why does he not return to his people? We could be doing with his expertise.
Rassilon: He has found a new home on Earth. I would go to him now, only it looks like Time has demanded his presence. We shall be reunited with our Lord Tactician soon enough.
Rassilon taps the screen so it shows an image of the Tactician. Either side of him are photos of Martha Jones and Peter McGuiness. At the side are a list of alien species which they have fought against.
Time Lord Commander: Impressive list. Silurians, Slitheen, Zygons, Nestene and Androvax. He really has made Earth a fortress, I'm surprised there are still attempts to claim it. Three of them, against the armies of the universe, how does he do it?
Rassilon: He has a talent, each of his team do. The protect the plant well from external forces. Unaware that it's the people already there that present the most threat. The Tactician's fate is written, he must go to Saint Jude's. There his future will be confirmed.
Time Lord Commander: What future?
Rassilon: He shares a destination with my Lord Valeyard. Their paths are fated to cross again, nothing can be done. At that stage, we need to be there for him. He will need our support.
Time Lord Commander: Isn't there something we can do?
Rassilon: You suggest going against Time herself?
Time Lord Commander: Of course not. That isn't possible is it?
Rassilon: Maybe. On Gallifrey it was. But that was a long time ago.
Time Lord Commander: So what do we do?
Rassilon: We bide our time. I have already foreseen my point of intervention.
He presses the screen again. This time it changed to something else entirely. A panoramic view of a barren planet. Orbiting two stars, with a central sapphire planet.
Time Lord Commander: What is this place?
Rassilon: A barren insignificant planet.
Time Lord Commander: So why is it on the screen then?
Rassilon: Daleks. That cave right there, a million Daleks emerged from that a few weeks ago.
Time Lord Commander: How?
Rassilon: Stasis cube technology. Stolen from Gallifrey, from right under our noses.
Time Lord Commander: So the Daleks are back?
Rassilon: Yes, we can't let them know of our existence. They would start another Time War without a moments hesitation. We stay clear of them. Understood.
Time Lord Commander: Loud and Clear sir. What do you want me to do in the mean time?
Rassilon: Train your me for dealing with Daleks. I'm not taking any chances. Council dismissed.
A Year in the Life Part 5/6 - November - Information
Martha: So where are we going?
The Tactician: I have received reports of a haunted house. I thought we should check it out.
Peter: Wait a minute you mean paranormal beings are real? I shouldn't be surprised given the extraterrestrial encounter I have witnessed in my time with you.
Martha: Or course they are not real. Don't be silly.
The Tactician: Nope, no ghosts. Just aliens that live within the confines of the fourth dimension. They cause strange activity, to a primitive species with a tendency for superstition. They appear as what is known as a ghost.
Peter: Why can all the humans be smart. So these creatures, there are harmless, correct? There are million of haunted house stories. If it represents a threat surely we would have done something by now?
Martha: Good point actually, what's so special about this house?
The Tactician: That's the fun part. According to reports the only two people who have entered have died. Looking at the post mortem scans, something tried to occupy their brains.
Peter: So why are we going anywhere near this place. Can't we just stick up a keep out sign.
Martha: Man up Peter.
The Tactician: We've faced a lot worse so far.
Peter: I hate ghosts.
They exit the TARDIS and are standing in a middle class estate. The houses are detached and have large gardens around them. In the middles of the road sits an old wooden house. It is beginning to rot. It appears that no one has lived here for a long time. On the door is yellow and police police tape informing the public that it is an active crime scene.
Martha: Crime Scene?
The Tactician: I told you, the last two people who went in here alone, they died.
Peter: And the police assume murder?
Martha: Naturally, who really would blame ghosts.
The Tactician: Human Race, rationalising the irrational. I really love that about you.
They walk over to the door of the house and enter. A pile of door-to-door advertisement leaflets blocks their entry, making it difficult to open the door. When they do eventually enter they make their way down the hallway. Peter picks up a leaflet which he crumples into a ball
The Tactician: What was on that?
Peter:It was a pamphlet for St Jude's
Martha: The hospital?
The Tactician: That name, I heard it a few times before. It seems familiar.
Peter: Yeah I told you, they rejected my application, I don't want to talk about it.
He throws the paper against the wall. As it drops a blue energy form comes from a light on the wall near where the paper hit. It goes straight for the Tactician entering through his nose and mouth. He shakes violently for a moment and then stands completely still.
Martha: Are you alright?
The Tactician: I am the information. We require a host, a processor. But nothing is powerful enough. No host can process me.
Peter: Is that what happened to those two people. You tired to use them as hosts?
Martha: But you burnt them out, they died and left you without a host didn't they.
The Tactician: You are both smart for Humans. A mere human brain does not possess the processing power to sustain me. This host is Time Lord, so much more, yet worth so much less. A blight on the universe, a perfect host, a meaningless sacrifice.
Peter: You can't take him, we need him. He is my friend.
Martha: He's not like other Time Lords, trust me. I've seen him in action. He has saved so many lives. He puts everyone first. I won't let you use him as a host.
The Tactician: I concur with your viewpoint. From accessing the organisms memory bank I can confirm its value. However this is the only vessel capable of holding me. I will not be stuck here forever.
Peter: You don't need him, you are looking at it wrong. If you need processing, why go biological, computers have a much greater capacity for processing.
The Tactician: Go on. Where would I find one of these computers which you speak of?
Peter: It doesn't have to be a computer, anything with a chip. No neural circuitry means it won't burn out. Anything will hold you. Unfortunately I don't see any technology in this house.
Martha: Here take this, it's a digital watch, it has a chip in it. I think.
The Tactician: Preliminary analysis shows that it will work. Thank you.
The blue energy exits the Tactician and enters Martha's watch on her wrist. She removes it as the Tactician regains the freedom to move. She hands him the watch
Peter: Did it work?
Martha: I don't know.
The Tactician: Yes it did. The watch will hold it, but it isn't perfect. Once I get back to the TARDIS I can edit it, make it easier for him. You never know the Information could be of use to us, I need a watch anyway. Well done Peter, good thinking on your feet.
Peter: Thanks, I guess I got lucky. What next?
Martha: Who knows?
A Year in the Life - Part 6/6 - December - Hey Jude
TARDIS interior
Martha: Where to next?
Peter: Can we go to the past, I would love to see something historical. War time Germany would be fantastic.
The Tactician is looking at his phone, onscreen there is a message. It contains co-ordinates and a line saying "Come immediately, come alone" . He inputs the co-ordinates into the TARDIS. On the central console sits a watch with lots of wires attached to it, it's screen bares a message saying 97% complete.
The Tactician: I have a personal matter to attend to first. We will go where ever you like once I am done.
Peter: We've seen the future, now I want to see the past.
The Tactician: All in good time. Just let me get sorted first.
Martha: When you say personal, you mean not us. Don't you?
The Tactician: I'm sorry, yes I do. I need you to wait in the TARDIS.
Martha: I will as long as you're sure.
Peter: It's nothing serious is it?
The Tactician: No. I just got a message about alien machinery. I'm suspecting a personal connection.
Peter: It's Gallifreyan?
The Tactician: Could be.
Martha: Surely that means you need us more rather than not at all.
The Tactician: I know you two always have my back. But I need to do this one on my own.
Martha: Ok
Peter: Good luck.
The Tactician exits TARDIS. The co-ordinates have taken him to a warehouse somewhere outside London. He quickly runs into the warehouse to avoid the heavy rain. Upon entry he noticed as large object placed centrally and covered with a cloth. Aware of the prospect of a trap he cautiously walk towards it. He assesses his surroundings, lots of dark shadow cast areas and over walking gantries. The object was in an exposed position, he would be taking a risk going for it. He decides to anyway and removes the cloth. The object underneath is a simple earth tractor. Before he can react further, a voice from behind and above draws his attention.
Voice: Sorry to bring you all the way out here for nothing. Had to be done. The secrecy must be maintained.
The Tactician: Where are you? Show yourself.
Voice: Up here
A man is standing on the steps to the overarching walkways. He begins to walk towards the Tactician. The face seems familiar, but it's owner does immediately spring to mind. The two men now stand two metres apart. The familiar faced man is well dressed, as if he has prepared for a meeting. The scent of masculine cologne is overpowering.
The Tactician: We've met before haven't we?
Man: Indeed, about a year ago. You saved my family.
The Tactician: I've met a lot of people this past year. Forgive me if I don't remember them all.
Man: You saved my wife and I from an assassination by what you called Flesh Avatars. My son, Oscar, he told me what you did you know. I honestly cannot thank you enough.
The Tactician: Oliver Campbell. Strange way of showing gratitude.
Oliver: Yes I'm sorry about that. And I'm sorry I lied to you. You asked me if there was any reason why I would have been targeted. I told you no. Well that's not quite true.
The Tactician: What has this got to do with bringing me here.
Oliver: Yes sorry about that. I'm aware you are a busy man. You may have heard of Saint Jude's?
The Tactician: I've heard the name. My friends may know a little more about it than I do.
Oliver: No one truly knows what it is.
The Tactician: Then how do you?
Oliver: I'm the project director. I made the decisions. It's my child.
The Tactician: Isn't it just a renovation of the old Saint Jude's hospital in London
Oliver: That's what I wanted people to believe. Well at least that's what those higher than I dictated be released.
The Tactician: So there's more to it than that?
Oliver: Of course. It's being described as the future of health care. The solution to the beds problems. But I can't tell you anymore.
The Tactician: Why not?
Oliver: Moves, counter moves. I need to be sure that what I tell you stays between you and I. The easiest way to do that is to show you.
The Tactician: Why do you want to show me? There's got to be more too this. You wouldn't call me out here for nothing.
Oliver: You shall be my personal advisor. Dr Peter McGuiness shall have the position he coveted and Dr Martha Jones, no one will question a doctor in a hospital. Where are your friends anyway?
The Tactician: Outside. The message said to come alone.
Oliver: Good, so we are all ready to go. I'll call the cars to pick us up.
The Tactician: I'm not going anywhere until you tell me why you want me.
Oliver: There has been a emergence of unknown infections. You have helped me deal will aliens before. Who better to ask to do it again. Saint Jude's has been breached, I need your help.
The Tactician:Do I have a choice?
Oliver: No. We need to leave now.
The Tactician was weary, he had faced such adversary, such opposition. He had fallen to his knees, he was done.He was as close to reaching the Valeyard as he could get, yet he could not summon the energy to force his way through the final lines of defence. Within touching distance of revenge and redemption, yet what was the point. Even if he could take out the rest of the Valeyard's army, what would he do then? Of course the Valeyard would be expecting him, and he would have a means to finish him off Either way, he was a sitting duck, no point it fighting when the outcome would be the same regardless. As the soldier within him left along with any hope he still possessed. His head dropped, the sound of his single heartbeat hammering in his head, his pulse was racing. He had lost, this was the end.
Two Years Earlier
1st January 2014
A man whose face is concealed is sitting in an armchair. His room is furnished with olden attire. A faint flickering lamp lights the room. On the table in front of him sits an olden style radio. He sits in silence listening to the broadcast.
Host: Hello folks. Welcome to our special New Years radio broadcast. Today I have a special guest with me in the studio. Some of you may know him as Mike Miller, or even the Tactician. Either way I'm sure you all know who I'm talking about. He's earths saviour and he has just joined me in the studio.
The Tactician: Hello
Host: I'm correct in saying this is the first public interview you have given? I'm honoured
The Tactician: Yes it is, I thought it best to let the people of Earth get to know me a little.
Host: So how does it feel to be the man who saved the planet. Tell us about that, how has it changed your life?
The Tactician: It's rather strange, I had barely adjusted to this planet and how life works here. Now I can't do anything without the media knowing.
Host: You mentioned adjustment. What have you found the biggest change?
The Tactician: Tough question. Probably the people, where I'm from people were very traditional: formal dress, daily duties and a very structured society. It amazes me the individual styles that I have seen, the daily attitude to life. Makes a pleasant change from red robes anyway.
Host: So this place where you're from..
The Tactician: Gallifrey. Yes?
Host: Why did you leave?
The Tactician: Well, it's a long story. One I don't really want to talk about now. All the information is out there, anyone who wants to know should Internet it.
Host: I think you mean Google it?
The Tactician: Probably, I still haven't got the hang of the the internet yet.
Host: Best keep you off Twitter then. So I have to ask, of all the planets you could have chosen, why Earth?
The Tactician: Honest answer, if seen photos in a book and thought it looked beautiful. When I arrived I noticed the planet in a bit of a financial problem. Earth needed money, I needed a home. I had the funds and the know how, seemed like a logical pairing at the time. So far it's turned out to be a good decision.
Host: What about your relationship with President Obama, there's been a lot in the papers on that one. Care to enlighten us?
The Tactician: He's been great to me. Honestly it's unbelievable the difference it makes settling into a new home when you have someone who is so caring and supportive of you, when they don't even really know you. He had no reason to trust me, yet he did, he gave me my chance and for that I'm eternally grateful.
Host: If recent reports are to be believed, you've severed you professional relationship with him?
The Tactician: I've resigned from my advisory role, by mutual agreement. There were too many naysayers and conspiracy theories that I was an American tool, a weapon if you like, that it became counterproductive. Now I represent the freedom of everyone and will protect Earth in the name of each and every human being out there.
Host: So you're aware of the Naysayers then? What do you make of the ones who are protesting the fact that an alien is living among them.
The Tactician: I can see their view, but you only have to look at the recent history of this planet to see that the attempted invasions have been on the rise since around 2005.
Host: I think that's their point, why should they trust anyone who isn't human?
The Tactician: Obviously I can't force them to trust me. But it's quite evident that there will be more coming here to cause trouble. That's where you need me, someone to fight your corner. Sorry, this is my home too now, I will fight our corner.
Host: Would you look at that, we are out of time. Thanks for coming down today, it's been a pleasure having you.
A Year in the Life 2/6 - March - Two Birds, One Stone
17th March 2014
Martha and the Tactician step out of the Tactician's TARDIS. They are back in London, back in the present. For her birthday, the Tactician had taken Martha back in time to see the original West End production of Les Misérables In the Barbican Arts Centre. As they walk alone the street they pass a large billboard sign saying "St Jude's: Now re-opened". They are discussing their favourite parts of the play as they walk. A thin young man bumps into the Tactician, he wears a black hoodie with an ACDC logo on front, black track bottoms with a white stripe down the side and white trainers. His hood covers his face. The Tactician thinks nothing of the encounter and they walk on a few more metres.
He suddenly realises that the man has picked his pocket, and the keys to his TARDIS and his wallet are gone. As he turns he sees the man getting into his car shaped TARDIS and making an attempt to drive off. Instead he must have hit a wrong button and the TARDIS dematerialises. The Tactician buts his head in his hands "Oh no, this isn't happening."
Martha isn't listening, her gaze is transfixed on a nearby rooftop. "That statue, I think it has moved, it was pointing the other way a minute ago"
"Thankfully I had the TARDIS' time travel abilities locked between here and 1980. He can only be there, but I've got now way of getting to him." The Tactician was ignoring Martha, and was well aware of the fact that she was ignoring him. "Martha you are not listening. TARDIS, gone!"
"Well if you'd listen to me for a moment" She reached out behind trying to hit him to attract his attention. It was difficult to do while keeping her eyes locked on the statue above. "It's a Weeping Angel"
The words hit the Tactician like a slap across the face and immediately drew his attention. "A Weeping Angel? Up there" his gaze turned upon the statue and he stared mumbling to himself, "wingspan yes, height yes, shape yes". "Right then, we've got a Weeping Angel on our hands, and no TARDIS to help. Lovely. Two major problems no solutions". He looks over at Martha. "Any ideas? Two problems, no ideas. Great! Two birds, no stones." He paused for a minute his mid deep in thought. "Oh that smart, that's really genius. Two birds, one stone. And I have the perfect stone. Martha, don't take your eyes off that angel."
He ran off, emerging a few minutes later on the rooftop beside the angel. He was talking to it, Martha stained to hear him. "You can't hunt on this planet, I won't allow it. I understand you need energy, but you can't take peoples lives. I can make you a deal, I have an energy source that will last you a lifetime. You can have it if you let me take you off this planet. What do you say? I'm going to blink now, raise one hand for a deal. Martha look away now."
He closes his eyes momentarily. When he opens them again the angel has moved. "Ok then, we a deal. But I need something first. The stone is in my ship, my ship is in 1980, and I have no way of getting there." He bit his tongue, aware of how crazy the suggestion he was about to make was. "Unless you send me back in time. I'm going to turn my back on you now, send me to 1980 and I'll come back with your power source."
When Martha looked back on the rooftop, the angel stood alone, until it was covered by the TARDIS materialising. It instantly disappeared again, taking the angel with it. A moment later it appeared in the street again, in the same position it was originally parked. The hooded young man run from it, notably terrified. A few seconds later the Tactician emerged. "Took the angel to the moon, gave it a collapsing blue giant encased in a diamond mainframe for energy." He gestured to the door. "Let's go"
A Year in the Life Part 3/6 - May - A New Companion
24th May 2014
The Tactician enters a large laboratory, it consists of several long white benches with taps for gas and water at regular intervals. At a guess it accommodates about two hundred chemists. As he walks between the benches he notices a young man working at the far corner of the room.
He is a short blonde haired man, his hair is greasy as if he hasn't washed it in days. He wears thick rimmed glasses. He is dressed in a shirt and tie, the shirt is tucked into his trousers which sit a little too high, while his tie is far too long dragging well below his trouser line. His sleeves are rolled up and he has tight rubber gloves on. At a guess he is somewhere between twenty-five and thirty years old. He is conducting done sort of chemical experiment. The Tactician approaches him.
The Tactician: Hello. I'm looking for a Mister McGuiness
Peter: Sssshhh. We are getting to the interesting part no interruptions please. And it's Doctor McGuiness.
The Tactician watches as Peter throws a lump on dull metal into the container of liquid. It immediately becomes a little ball and moves rapidly on top of the surface of the liquid. It burns with a violet flame as it travels, until it eventually burns out.
Peter: Beautiful isn't it?
The Tactician: Potassium and water. Am I right?
Peter: You know your stuff. I'm impressed.
He looks up from his experiment for the first time. Upon recognising his visitor he smiles. His name badge which is now visible reveals him to be Peter McGuiness
The Tactician: Hello I'm...
Peter: Yes Yes I am aware of who you are. I assume you are here because of the painting.
The Tactician: Painting? I'm here about a spacial disturbance.
Peter: My boss said he called you in about a painting. He made me stay here. He's too busy with the St Jude's project.
The Tactician: What's so special about a painting?
Peter: Follow me and I'll show you.
The Tactician: Lead the way.
They walk to the back of the lab, towards the staff offices. They stop at a door as Peter removes a ring of keys from his pocket. He fiddles with them trying to find the correct one to open the door.
Peter: I suspect the painting could be the the spacial disturbance you mentioned. It really is special.
The Tactician: What could be special about a painting?
Peter: You'll see in a minute. I just need to open this door.
He finally finds the correct key and gets the door open. In the office on the wall is a painting covered in drapes. Peter moves to expose the painting
The Tactician: Why do you keep it covered?
Peter: It's strange, just looking at it makes us feel uneasy. Besides we don't know what it is meant to depict. How can we appreciate it?
The Tactician: Maybe I can tell you what image it holds.
Peter: I don't really care. As long as you take it far away from here.
He removes the covering revealing the painting
The Tactician: That's impossible.
Peter: An old man in some sort of specialised wheelchair. We suspected it's from somewhere in Asia. They have technology superior to ours. But these bronze things in the background, those we have no idea about.
The Tactician: This cannot be here.
Peter: A 3-D painting, it really is exceptional isn't it. Unsettling but beautiful.
The Tactician: That's Davros, and those are Daleks. That technology, they can't have access to it. It's Time Lord.
Peter: You know that man?
The Tactician: It's not a painting, he's actually inside that. It's made by something called a stasis cube.
Peter: What scientific journal is that from? I read them all.
The Tactician: No. It's from my planet. Far more advanced tech than you could imagine. Think of it like a box, you can store stuff in it. But it takes up no space.
Peter: So like a trans-dimensional bank vault?
The Tactician: Actually that's pretty much it. That man, that thing there, his name is Davros. He created a race of killer beings, hell bend on achieving supremacy. The only thing standing in their way was my people. War was imminent.
Peter: What happened?
The Tactician: Madame Kovarian. She wiped out their entire species, using biological weaponry.
Peter: So this Madame Kovarian, she's a heroine then?
The Tactician: No that's not the full story, I don't talk about the rest. I killed her you know, I still regret that, she was evil yes. But it's not my place to deliver justice, no matter what she has done.
Peter: You said all the Daleks were wiped out. So how are there some in here?
The Tactician: They used the stasis cube to avoid it. They stole our technology, we could have used that. Why didn't I think of that.
Peter: Don't beat yourself up. Now take this painting away.
The Tactician: Oh, I'm going to take it very far away, I can't have Daleks anywhere near Earth. That painting breaks and it's hell on Earth.
The Tactician tries to remove the painting from the wall. He is struggling to carry it by himself. Peter realises this and offers to help, together they carry the painting out of the office
Peter: So where are we taking this thing?
The Tactician: Somewhere safe. We need to go to my ship first though, it's a long journey.
Peter: And where's your ship?
The Tactician: In the corner over there to the left.
Peter: Beside the Portaloo?
The Tactician: It is the Portaloo. Don't ask, it's a chameleon circuit, it takes an image which makes it look inconspicuous. I don't like the fact it's a toilet though.
Peter: We won't both fit in there.
The Tactician: Trust me, we will.
Peter: If you say so.
They enter the Tactician's TARDIS
The Tactician: See I told you we would fit. What do you think?
Peter: Reversed physics. More internal mass than external. Amazing. I'd heard theories this was possible, but didn't realise anyone had managed it. Who do you work for.
The Tactician: No one, I severed all connections to any governments. Too political.
Peter: Wise Man
The Tactician: Right, back out of the TARDIS now.
They exit the TARDIS onto a barren planet. There are no signs of life in any direction, just expanses of flat black earth, except for the cave in front of them. In the sky above where two stars in very close proximity. Between them sat a blue crystalline planets, the reflection if the rays from the stars cast a blue dancing light across the planet in which they stood.
Peter: It's more beautiful that I could have possibly imagined. This is amazing. You have a space ship.
The Tactician: It's actually a time machine too. This is a million years in the future from where we left.
Peter: Right. I assume you mean to leave the painting in the cave.
The Tactician: Exactly somewhere it will never be found. I reckon we are the only people in all of time to walk on this surface.
Peter: Let's do it then.
They leave the painting reasonably deep into the cave. Upon exiting, the Tactician withdraws his weapon and shoots the rocks above the cave. The resulting landslide seals the cave from external entry
The Tactician: It had to be done, not taking any chances.
They return to the TARDIS and are standing at the console. They are chatting
Peter: This is really wonderful. I assume it's back home now then?
The Tactician: I guess so, you have a job, you were doing experiments.
Peter: Actually I don't anymore. I quit a week ago. My weeks notice is now done.
The Tactician:Why did you quit?
Peter: I applied for the lead of the St Jude's project. I was rejected. I didn't want to work somewhere I wasn't appreciated.
The Tactician: Good for you. You know I could be doing with someone like you around. What would you say if I asked you to be a part of my team?
Peter:Yes. One hundred percent yes.
The Tactician: Well then, you're in. Off we pop.
As the TARDIS dematerialises, the planet shakes violently as a strong earthquake occurs. Inside the cave, broken glass covers the floor
Dalek: EXTERMINATE!
A Year in the Life Part 4/6 - August - Vale Doctor
Unidentified Planet, sometime far into the future
Narrator: There once was a man whose very name inspired hope into those in need. A man who stood as a beacon to all that needed help. And his name was the Doctor. There were times when his TARDIS, that famous blue box could turn an army away in fear. His enemies had many names to describe him, hailing him as a glorious fighter, an oncoming storm. Yet he always used the name, Doctor, a healer and force for good.
A hand appears in front of a screen which previously held an image of all incarnations of the Doctor. The hand taps the screen and it turns to an image of a planet, the planet is burning
Narrator: Alas, everything chances, it must sooner or late. The Doctor has abandoned his name, his morales. Instead he has adapted a new persona, a name all Time Lords know. A myth, a fairy tale villain, a figure used to guide the morality of Time Lord children. Nothing more than An idea, but one which has now become a name.
The hand pinches the screen, zooming in on a small ship. One closer inspection, it is revealed to be a blue police public call box. Standing in the door observing the planet burn is a man wearing a black suit with a black tie.
Narrator: The Doctor: in his final incarnation, or the Valeyard as he now prefers. There are people who he once shown mercy to, now they are being revisited. Time to repay a debt. The Valeyard thinks the universe has dealt him one too many bad hands. He has taken it upon himself to deliver tough justice. He stands watching the people of that planet flee. There were days where that man would have been down there leading the escape. Now he's taking joy in watching their suffering.
The hand presses a button on the screen, a film begins to play of the events
Narrator: Sometimes it is impossible to fully change. To turn away from your true roots. Observe.
The film shows one if the escaping ships burning as it passes close to the TARDIS. Children's screams can be heard and a large tear is visible in the side of the ship. It is t going to make it, all on board are doomed to die
Narrator: A crashing ship, no business of the Valeyard, or so you would think. Watch.
The Valeyard: Hold on. I'll help you.
Narrator: And so he used his TARDIS to board the ship and rescue it's passengers. He takes them somewhere safe. But watch his interaction.
The Valeyard: You are safe here.
Young Boy: My home it burnt. How can I be safe anywhere.
The Valeyard: You are alive, consider this your lucky day.
Young Boy: But my friends, my family. They are all dead. It's not fair. Can't you do something.
The Valeyard: Join the club kid. Life's not fair, it a hard lesson. Now go! Before I change my mind.
Young Boy: Thank you!
Narrator: A heart he is still the Doctor, whether he knows it or not. He is not beyond redemption.
The screen stops playing as the young boy and the Valeyard part ways. The screen is revealed to be in a room with a round table. Six young men sit dressed in red robes. The man standing at the screen talking is significantly older, he is their leader. Rassilon. Of the men at the table one wears robes of a slightly different style to the others, he is a commander.
Time Lord Commander: Are you sure this is the Doctor after planet fall?
Rassilon: Certain. You forget I was there. You were merely a young boy. The Doctor I met was frail, he was angry. It isn't too much of a stretch to think he could have become this.
Time Lord Commander: Apart from us, is he the only survivor?
Rassilon: No. There was one other. But he is unaware that we escaped safely.
Time Lord Commander: Who?
Rassilon: The Tactician. One of my best Generals. I loved him like he was a son. He was as close to that as you can get.
Time Lord Commander: Is this is same man whose story of sacrifice you based out society?
Rassilon: Yes. He thought he was giving his life to let us go free. I wasn't aware he had survived, not until recently.
Time Lord Commander: And where is he now? Why does he not return to his people? We could be doing with his expertise.
Rassilon: He has found a new home on Earth. I would go to him now, only it looks like Time has demanded his presence. We shall be reunited with our Lord Tactician soon enough.
Rassilon taps the screen so it shows an image of the Tactician. Either side of him are photos of Martha Jones and Peter McGuiness. At the side are a list of alien species which they have fought against.
Time Lord Commander: Impressive list. Silurians, Slitheen, Zygons, Nestene and Androvax. He really has made Earth a fortress, I'm surprised there are still attempts to claim it. Three of them, against the armies of the universe, how does he do it?
Rassilon: He has a talent, each of his team do. The protect the plant well from external forces. Unaware that it's the people already there that present the most threat. The Tactician's fate is written, he must go to Saint Jude's. There his future will be confirmed.
Time Lord Commander: What future?
Rassilon: He shares a destination with my Lord Valeyard. Their paths are fated to cross again, nothing can be done. At that stage, we need to be there for him. He will need our support.
Time Lord Commander: Isn't there something we can do?
Rassilon: You suggest going against Time herself?
Time Lord Commander: Of course not. That isn't possible is it?
Rassilon: Maybe. On Gallifrey it was. But that was a long time ago.
Time Lord Commander: So what do we do?
Rassilon: We bide our time. I have already foreseen my point of intervention.
He presses the screen again. This time it changed to something else entirely. A panoramic view of a barren planet. Orbiting two stars, with a central sapphire planet.
Time Lord Commander: What is this place?
Rassilon: A barren insignificant planet.
Time Lord Commander: So why is it on the screen then?
Rassilon: Daleks. That cave right there, a million Daleks emerged from that a few weeks ago.
Time Lord Commander: How?
Rassilon: Stasis cube technology. Stolen from Gallifrey, from right under our noses.
Time Lord Commander: So the Daleks are back?
Rassilon: Yes, we can't let them know of our existence. They would start another Time War without a moments hesitation. We stay clear of them. Understood.
Time Lord Commander: Loud and Clear sir. What do you want me to do in the mean time?
Rassilon: Train your me for dealing with Daleks. I'm not taking any chances. Council dismissed.
A Year in the Life Part 5/6 - November - Information
Martha: So where are we going?
The Tactician: I have received reports of a haunted house. I thought we should check it out.
Peter: Wait a minute you mean paranormal beings are real? I shouldn't be surprised given the extraterrestrial encounter I have witnessed in my time with you.
Martha: Or course they are not real. Don't be silly.
The Tactician: Nope, no ghosts. Just aliens that live within the confines of the fourth dimension. They cause strange activity, to a primitive species with a tendency for superstition. They appear as what is known as a ghost.
Peter: Why can all the humans be smart. So these creatures, there are harmless, correct? There are million of haunted house stories. If it represents a threat surely we would have done something by now?
Martha: Good point actually, what's so special about this house?
The Tactician: That's the fun part. According to reports the only two people who have entered have died. Looking at the post mortem scans, something tried to occupy their brains.
Peter: So why are we going anywhere near this place. Can't we just stick up a keep out sign.
Martha: Man up Peter.
The Tactician: We've faced a lot worse so far.
Peter: I hate ghosts.
They exit the TARDIS and are standing in a middle class estate. The houses are detached and have large gardens around them. In the middles of the road sits an old wooden house. It is beginning to rot. It appears that no one has lived here for a long time. On the door is yellow and police police tape informing the public that it is an active crime scene.
Martha: Crime Scene?
The Tactician: I told you, the last two people who went in here alone, they died.
Peter: And the police assume murder?
Martha: Naturally, who really would blame ghosts.
The Tactician: Human Race, rationalising the irrational. I really love that about you.
They walk over to the door of the house and enter. A pile of door-to-door advertisement leaflets blocks their entry, making it difficult to open the door. When they do eventually enter they make their way down the hallway. Peter picks up a leaflet which he crumples into a ball
The Tactician: What was on that?
Peter:It was a pamphlet for St Jude's
Martha: The hospital?
The Tactician: That name, I heard it a few times before. It seems familiar.
Peter: Yeah I told you, they rejected my application, I don't want to talk about it.
He throws the paper against the wall. As it drops a blue energy form comes from a light on the wall near where the paper hit. It goes straight for the Tactician entering through his nose and mouth. He shakes violently for a moment and then stands completely still.
Martha: Are you alright?
The Tactician: I am the information. We require a host, a processor. But nothing is powerful enough. No host can process me.
Peter: Is that what happened to those two people. You tired to use them as hosts?
Martha: But you burnt them out, they died and left you without a host didn't they.
The Tactician: You are both smart for Humans. A mere human brain does not possess the processing power to sustain me. This host is Time Lord, so much more, yet worth so much less. A blight on the universe, a perfect host, a meaningless sacrifice.
Peter: You can't take him, we need him. He is my friend.
Martha: He's not like other Time Lords, trust me. I've seen him in action. He has saved so many lives. He puts everyone first. I won't let you use him as a host.
The Tactician: I concur with your viewpoint. From accessing the organisms memory bank I can confirm its value. However this is the only vessel capable of holding me. I will not be stuck here forever.
Peter: You don't need him, you are looking at it wrong. If you need processing, why go biological, computers have a much greater capacity for processing.
The Tactician: Go on. Where would I find one of these computers which you speak of?
Peter: It doesn't have to be a computer, anything with a chip. No neural circuitry means it won't burn out. Anything will hold you. Unfortunately I don't see any technology in this house.
Martha: Here take this, it's a digital watch, it has a chip in it. I think.
The Tactician: Preliminary analysis shows that it will work. Thank you.
The blue energy exits the Tactician and enters Martha's watch on her wrist. She removes it as the Tactician regains the freedom to move. She hands him the watch
Peter: Did it work?
Martha: I don't know.
The Tactician: Yes it did. The watch will hold it, but it isn't perfect. Once I get back to the TARDIS I can edit it, make it easier for him. You never know the Information could be of use to us, I need a watch anyway. Well done Peter, good thinking on your feet.
Peter: Thanks, I guess I got lucky. What next?
Martha: Who knows?
A Year in the Life - Part 6/6 - December - Hey Jude
TARDIS interior
Martha: Where to next?
Peter: Can we go to the past, I would love to see something historical. War time Germany would be fantastic.
The Tactician is looking at his phone, onscreen there is a message. It contains co-ordinates and a line saying "Come immediately, come alone" . He inputs the co-ordinates into the TARDIS. On the central console sits a watch with lots of wires attached to it, it's screen bares a message saying 97% complete.
The Tactician: I have a personal matter to attend to first. We will go where ever you like once I am done.
Peter: We've seen the future, now I want to see the past.
The Tactician: All in good time. Just let me get sorted first.
Martha: When you say personal, you mean not us. Don't you?
The Tactician: I'm sorry, yes I do. I need you to wait in the TARDIS.
Martha: I will as long as you're sure.
Peter: It's nothing serious is it?
The Tactician: No. I just got a message about alien machinery. I'm suspecting a personal connection.
Peter: It's Gallifreyan?
The Tactician: Could be.
Martha: Surely that means you need us more rather than not at all.
The Tactician: I know you two always have my back. But I need to do this one on my own.
Martha: Ok
Peter: Good luck.
The Tactician exits TARDIS. The co-ordinates have taken him to a warehouse somewhere outside London. He quickly runs into the warehouse to avoid the heavy rain. Upon entry he noticed as large object placed centrally and covered with a cloth. Aware of the prospect of a trap he cautiously walk towards it. He assesses his surroundings, lots of dark shadow cast areas and over walking gantries. The object was in an exposed position, he would be taking a risk going for it. He decides to anyway and removes the cloth. The object underneath is a simple earth tractor. Before he can react further, a voice from behind and above draws his attention.
Voice: Sorry to bring you all the way out here for nothing. Had to be done. The secrecy must be maintained.
The Tactician: Where are you? Show yourself.
Voice: Up here
A man is standing on the steps to the overarching walkways. He begins to walk towards the Tactician. The face seems familiar, but it's owner does immediately spring to mind. The two men now stand two metres apart. The familiar faced man is well dressed, as if he has prepared for a meeting. The scent of masculine cologne is overpowering.
The Tactician: We've met before haven't we?
Man: Indeed, about a year ago. You saved my family.
The Tactician: I've met a lot of people this past year. Forgive me if I don't remember them all.
Man: You saved my wife and I from an assassination by what you called Flesh Avatars. My son, Oscar, he told me what you did you know. I honestly cannot thank you enough.
The Tactician: Oliver Campbell. Strange way of showing gratitude.
Oliver: Yes I'm sorry about that. And I'm sorry I lied to you. You asked me if there was any reason why I would have been targeted. I told you no. Well that's not quite true.
The Tactician: What has this got to do with bringing me here.
Oliver: Yes sorry about that. I'm aware you are a busy man. You may have heard of Saint Jude's?
The Tactician: I've heard the name. My friends may know a little more about it than I do.
Oliver: No one truly knows what it is.
The Tactician: Then how do you?
Oliver: I'm the project director. I made the decisions. It's my child.
The Tactician: Isn't it just a renovation of the old Saint Jude's hospital in London
Oliver: That's what I wanted people to believe. Well at least that's what those higher than I dictated be released.
The Tactician: So there's more to it than that?
Oliver: Of course. It's being described as the future of health care. The solution to the beds problems. But I can't tell you anymore.
The Tactician: Why not?
Oliver: Moves, counter moves. I need to be sure that what I tell you stays between you and I. The easiest way to do that is to show you.
The Tactician: Why do you want to show me? There's got to be more too this. You wouldn't call me out here for nothing.
Oliver: You shall be my personal advisor. Dr Peter McGuiness shall have the position he coveted and Dr Martha Jones, no one will question a doctor in a hospital. Where are your friends anyway?
The Tactician: Outside. The message said to come alone.
Oliver: Good, so we are all ready to go. I'll call the cars to pick us up.
The Tactician: I'm not going anywhere until you tell me why you want me.
Oliver: There has been a emergence of unknown infections. You have helped me deal will aliens before. Who better to ask to do it again. Saint Jude's has been breached, I need your help.
The Tactician:Do I have a choice?
Oliver: No. We need to leave now.