The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 1/6
It's Christmas time in the village, a gentle snow fall caresses the landscape as people excitedly dash between shops, desperate to complete last minute shopping. A distant bell rang out against the night sky, informing the shoppers that only eight hours remained until the big day. The peaceful joyous atmosphere was completed by the choir at the centre of town, singing classic Christmas Carols.
The Campbell family were out to buy their turkey for their family gathering tomorrow. Oliver Campbell, his wife Lucy and their nine year old son Oscar. Lucy was expecting and was due anytime in the next two weeks, she had hope for the sake of the family and Christmas celebrations, that she would be able to hold off until at least after Boxing Day, when they were hosting the entire wider family for Dinner.
She smiled as she watched young Oscar press himself up against the window of the toy shop admiring its contents.
Oscar:Mummy, look at that, this is so cool, I hope Santa leaves me that.
Oliver: Now Oscar, you know what I told you about asking for too much.
He winked at his wife, safe in the knowledge that the toy Oscar was admiring was sitting wrapped in his mother's house, ready to be picked up that night
Lucy: Only the boys who have been best behaved all year, could even hope to get something like that.
Oscar: But I have been Mummy. I haven't told lies all year and have only been bold once.
Lucy gasped as the baby kicked out unexpectedly in her stomach. He husband immediately grabbed her by the shoulders to support her
Lucy: Your little brother is saying hello. Oscar come here and you can feel him kicking.
Oliver We had best get going, get you in out of this weather. I couldn't live with myself if anything happened to you or the baby. We'll take the shortcut home.
He pointed towards the alleyway which ran from the centre of town to the street next to the one on which they lived. Going that way would cut out the trek through town and allow them to make it home in half the time.
Lucy: Good call, I'm starting to feel a little tired, I don't think I could make the long way.
When they were halfway down the alleyway, they were stopped my two men emerging from the opposite side. They were armed and their faces were covered with black masks and hoods.
Oliver:(whispering) Oscar run, as fast you can, back into town. Don't stop until you are safe.
Man 1: Oliver Campbell?
Oliver: What is it to you? What do you want?
Man 2: You dead.
Oliver: If that's what you're after, fine, just let my wife and unborn child live. They haven't done anything wrong.
Man 1: Our orders are to kill you all.
Oscar ran as fast as his legs would carry him, not daring to look back. The sound of the wind rushing in his ears drowned out the noise of his fathers pleas.
As he reached the end of the alleyway, he heard the sound of two gunshots in quick succession. He ran again, fear and despair overwhelming his frail little body.
Oscar:(shouting) Mummy! Daddy! Help Me!
Now he had got lost, running aimlessly as far away from the gunshot as he could, he was in an area he didn't recognise. There was no one around and the snowstorm was becoming more violent. The alleyways were more open here, and he noticed footsteps going towards the centre.
He followed them, and was now standing in the middle of the widening of the alleyway. It was here that the footprints abruptly stopped. They were too deep for the snow to have filled them in, but there was no where their owner could have gone.
Sitting in the snow, barely covered by any of the fresh snowfall was a small rectangular box, the deepest of blues in colour.
Oscar:(to no one) What is it?
He picked up the box and ran over to the bins at the edge of the alley, taking shelter from the snowy gale between them. After playing with the box for a moment, it opened revealing its contents of five dark blue matches. Longing for the heat that a flame would offer, he closed his eyes, and struck a match.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 2/6
TARDIS Wardrobe
The Doctor is standing in front of the mirror in the TARDIS wardrobe. He is talking to his reflection debating who he is.
The Doctor: Are you the Doctor, the man who saves, the man who heals. But how can you be, you did what you did because it was the only way you could justify your actions in the time war. You were the Doctor because you did good, but you convince yourself that you did that out of atonement.
He discards a grey suit, in favour of a jet black one from the rail
The Doctor: Yet how can you atone for something that never happened. You saved lives because you wanted to, deep down you always knew the truth. You chose to act because you could, you had the power. You are the Time Lord Victorious, but you aren't even that, because he survived. You haven't won yet, for now your just the Valeyard.
He pulls a dark navy shirt from the rail and puts it on with his black suit. He goes over to the tie rack to decide on a tie.
The Doctor: Bow tie? No, too Doctor. Black tie? No, too dark, too Valeyard
He reaches into the back of the tie rack, straining to reach. He draws out his hand with a bright lime green tie.
The Doctor: I like that one, it'll do.
He returns to his position in front of the mirror, this time a more solemn look on his face.
The Doctor: I can't go on like this, Doctor or Valeyard, I need to decide, but I can't. How can I made that decision?
He clicked his fingers as a beaming smile broke across his face
The Doctor: Oh that's brilliant, whoever I am I'm a genius. The Planet of Projections, exactly where I need to go.
He runs off in the direction of the TARDIS console room
The Planet of Projections
A dark planet with a thick atmosphere. Light from the nearest star is of a barely significant intensity by the time it reaches the planet, and when it does it's blocked out by the black gaseous climate. A damp, dark and cold lump of rock, but there was something very special about this small planet. So say that it is sentient, that it looks into your soul and projects your inner demons to you.
The TARDIS materialises and the Doctor emerges. The colours of his new attire make him difficult to see, his tie and face being the only things to be seen. A gentle wind breezes by his face, he strains his ears thinking he can detect whispering voices in it.
Voice 1: Sweetie, what did I tell you about travelling alone?
The Doctor:(confused) River?
Voice 2: Raggedy Man, don't be alone.
The Doctor(panicked) Amy! Amy! Where are you?
He is about to run from the TARDIS after the voice, buts stops and catches his breath. He realises that if he moves too far from the TARDIS, he will never find it again
The Doctor: Relax Doctor, it's just a projection, you can do this
Now a young boy appears in front of him, the Doctor does not recognise him. There is a slight ghostly glow around the boy's outline
Boy:(scared) Who are you? Where am I?
The Doctor:(laughing) Million Dollar question there.
The Doctor:(sarcastically) What are you meant to be, my inner child?
Boy: I don't understand. My name is Oscar Campbell. I heard you say you were a Doctor, can you help me?
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story. Part 3/6
The Doctor: What can I help you with, your just an image, I'm not greeting sucked into this mind game.
The young boy disappears and is replaced by an elderly man with white whispy hair. The Doctor instantly recognises him as himself, in his first incarnation.
First Doctor: You would do well to remember where you began, who you are and what you do!
The First Doctor is encompassed with the glow of regeneration energy. Now a man who he doesn't recognise is standing, he vaguely recognises the face but can't place it. The man has short curly grey hair and wears a blue suit.
Unknown Man: If you knew where you were going, would it show you who you are.
The Doctor: Are you...? You've made the decision, so who are you.
The Doctor(angry) Tell me!
Unknown Man: Even if I knew, I couldn't tell you, the decision is yours to make, it's time to make it.
The Doctor: I've never felt so empty, I'm lost.
The Doctor blinks, in that short time, the man has disappeared and had been replaced by Oscar again.
Oscar: Me too. Where am I?
The Doctor: The Planet of Projections
Oscar:(excited) A real alien planet?
Oscar:(sighing) It's not very awesome is it? Too dark. I thought it would be like I seen on TV.
Oscar disappears again, and is replaced by Luke Smith. The last time the Doctor had spoken to Luke they had fought, with Luke believing he could have done more to prevent Sarah Jane's death.
The Doctor:(sorrowful) There wasn't anything I could have done, I tried my best.
Luke: I know, it's ok.
The Doctor: You mean you understand?
Luke: Of course I do, it's your mind, your opinions I'm only a projection. And even at that you can make me forgive you, how can you seek forgiveness when you cannot accept yourself.
The Doctor: You're right, but who do I accept, Doctor or Valeyard?
When the Doctor looks back, Luke has gone and Oscar is back
Oscar: What's a Valeyard?
The Doctor: Possibly me, I don't know yet.
Oscar: Didn't you say you were the Doctor. I hope you are, I'm getting really cold now and my parents have been shot. Please I need someone to help me.
The Doctor: You're not real.
Oscar disappears again, and this time is replaced by the Master, standing with one his wide grins
The Doctor:(Hatefully) You! you did this to me. Why didn't you let me die, you destroyed who I am. Why did you make me live?
The Master:(laughing) Such self hatred, I love it. Do you forget your talking to yourself?
The Master: Tell me Doctor, were your parents shot?
The Doctor: What is it to you?
The Master: I know the answer is no. You came here to help make a decision. I think you've already made up your mind.
The Doctor: How so?
The Master: A lost little boy looking help, and you're ignoring him, dismissing him as a projection. How can you even consider using the name of the Doctor?
The Doctor places his head in his hands and takes a moments silence. Without him realising the Master disappears and Oscar has returned. Oscar's voice snaps the Doctor out if his trance.
Oscar: Doctor, help me!
The Doctor: I'm here Oscar, tell me where and when you are from. I promise I'll find you.
Oscar: I'm from Emberton, sir. It's Christmas Eve. But I'm really sorry, I only have one match left in the box.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 4/6
The Doctor: Hold on Oscar, I'll be there soon. I need you to help me. What year? And whatever you do, don't light that last match. Save it for as long as you can.
Just as he has finished speaking, Oscar fades away in front of him. This time there is no projection to take his place. It's pitch black, the only light a faint glow coming from the TARDIS a few metres away.
He turns and walks towards the TARDIS. From behind he he hears a voice, one he instantly recognises. It belongs to Sarah Jane Smith, his face bears a look of grief as he pauses in the doorway of the TARDIS. He can't bring himself to look at her projection.
Sarah Jane: Hello, Doctor are you there?
The Doctor:(ashamed) I'm in here somewhere Sarah.
Sarah Jane: Someone has given you a chance to prove that you are the Doctor. Take it! The universe owes you this one. A lonely little boy needing help. How very Doctor.
The Doctor:(determined) I will.
The Doctor clicks his fingers and the TARDIS doors slam shut behind him. In an instant he is consumed by that childish energy which had become characteristic of his actions in this incarnation. He is running around the console, pushing buttons, pulling levels and twisting knobs. He stops abruptly placing his face in his hands
The Doctor: What year? It could be any, how do I guess?
Oscar: It's 2013 silly. Is this your ship, it's pretty cool.
Oscar has appeared in front of the Doctor and is standing beside the console. He is paler now and looks ill. The Doctor checks the screen of the TARDIS monitor to confirm that he is no longer on the planet of projections.
The Doctor:(surprised) I'm not...how are you here?
Oscar: Every time I strike a match, I dream I'm with you.
The Doctor: What matches?
Oscar: I found them on the floor. I know I shouldn't have lifted them, but I was so cold
The Doctor: I've found your village, I'll be there soon. Show me one of these matches.
Oscar: I can't I've used the last one. Sorry.
Oscar sits on the floor and crosses his legs, he is weak and shivering.
Oscar: It's nice and warm here, I could stay here forever. I think I'll go for a sleep now.
The Doctor: Stay awake, stay strong, but most importantly stay alive.
Oscar:(meekly) I can't, I don't have the energy.
The Doctor: No, not now. Stay awake a few moments, I've found you, but the TARDIS won't land with you...
The Doctor stops talking as Oscar disappears in front of him. He feels a sense of dread in his stomach
Emberton, Widening in Alleyway
Barely breathing, young Oscar sits huddled between the bins, his eyes closed, his mind far away. In his small hand he clutches a match, one who's flame is about to extinguish. His only movement is a slight tremor of his hand, as he shivers in the cold. As the match goes out, so does his life and he breathes his last, his muscles relax and his face looks at peace.
A wind stirs throughout the alleyway as the TARDIS materialises. The majestic blue box appears in the middle of the undisputed snow. The Doctor emerges and spots Oscar lying between the bins, he runs over to him
The Doctor: Come on Oscar please be alive.
The cold air stings the tears forming in the Doctor's eyes. He checks for signs of life, but knows in his hearts that it is hopeless.
He tries his hardest to compose himself and walks towards the TARDIS again. He doesn't make it before opening into floods of tears. He screams an agonising scream as he rests his head against the TARDIS. He is distraught, defeated
The Valeyard:(furious) Too long I have tried to save this universe. And all it does is spit it back at me. Not any more. From now on I get what I want. I am the Valeyard, and no one will stand in my way.
He pulls himself into the TARDIS and the doors close. The TARDIS dematerialises leaving only the prints in the snow as company to Oscars frail body.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 5/6
Two people dressed heavily with coats scarves and gloves were are only people still present in the village centre. They are dressed for the cold to such an extent, that they are barely recognisable. All the shops have closed for the night, not to open again until Boxing Day at the earliest. One of the two people, the man is holding a small electrical device with protruding antennae.
The Tactician: No, I've lost it, the signal, it was right there, now it's gone. That's not possible.
He gives the side of the device a firm hit, a periodic bleep is emitted
The Tactician: Bingo! Gotcha! We're not far now Martha, signals coming from one of those alleyways to the west.
Martha: And this signal? You say it's Timelord, how's that possible?
The Tactician: It's not, unless it's him.
Martha: The Doctor?
The Tactician: The only Timelord not on Gallifrey. The Master sent him away, that I vaguely remember.
Martha: The Master? They hated each other, I've met the Master, there's no way he's capable of an act of kindness
They had reached a junction in the alleyway system. The Tactician was using the scanner device to determine their directions
The Tactician: We go left
A moments silence ensued
Martha: I've been meaning to ask, Mike Miller or The Tactician. Which is it? I've heard you use both.
The Tactician: Situation Dependant.
Martha:(laughing) What does that mean?
The Tactician: I don't know. (He pauses for a moment) They're both my name, well the Tactician was to be my chosen name, but Gallifrey fell before I could take it on. I use it when I can, but sometimes it feels like a cheat, other times it reminds me off-
They have reached a widening in the alleyway, the scanner had started bleeping faster and there was a large square imprint in the snow at the centre of the alleyway. There are footsteps coming from this square towards the bins at the side of the alleyway and back towards the square shaped impression
Martha: He been here alright, the Doctor.
The Tactician: We must have missed him by a few moments. The energy levels are still high.
The Tactician was already heading towards the bins, following the footsteps. Once he reached and seen what lay behind, he let out a heartfelt groan of agony
The Tactician: Oh god! No! This can't be happening, come here Martha.
Martha quickly made her way over. Upon seeing the child's body, she dropped to her knees, checking for signs of life
Martha: He dead. Oh that poor little boy.
The Tactician:(Solemnly) Martha, there's only one set of footprints. And this poor boys clothes are too good for him to have been a homeless shelterer.
Martha: What are you saying?
The Tactician You travelled with the Doctor, could he have done this.
Martha: Not a chance, he's like you. Wouldn't hurt a fly, and tries to save everyone he can. You know, you remind me of him a lot, the fight within you, the will to always do good, you are well aware of your place in the universe. As is he, your suggestion is impossible. But then, I never thought he could have left me like he did.
Something on the ground catches the eye of the Tactician as he bends down to pick it up. It's a small dark blue rectangular box. He opens it to find it is empty.
The Tactician: Look familiar?
Martha: TARDIS blue!
The Tactician: I really don't like the look of this.
They exchange glances as they stand in silence contemplating where they go next with the situation in front of them
The Tactician: No, you're right. There's no way the Doctor could do something like this. Absolutely not, this looks worse for him than it is.
Martha is distant, not listening to what he is saying, she is now looking at Oscars body, her mind processing thoughts.
Martha: It's Christmas Eve, and some poor family is about to get the worst news imaginable.
The Tactician: No, not happening.
Martha:(confused) Huh?
The Tactician: It doesn't have to be that way, I've got an idea. A long shot, but it just might work.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 6/6
(Don't read unless you have read all previous parts)
The Tactician: Time Lords have a little trick, a special way of cheating death. It's called regeneration, every cell in your body is renewed, basically you get a new body.
Martha: I know, the Doctor told me. How would that help anyway?
The Tactician: It's a tricky process though. It has a couple of prerequisites. It needs a lot of energy and your body needs to be fully developed, you need to be a certain age for that. I'm not old enough, I haven't learned how, so I can't do it.
Martha: So you can't regenerate? That's a little rubbish
The Tactician: Yes it is, a lot rubbish, it makes young Time Lords vulnerable. Or it would have, if not for a mutation that occurred over ten thousand years ago. Evolutionary selection means everyone has it now, and it means I can do this.
He walks over to the wall and places his palms on the wall. He grimaces his face and clenches his teeth as he drags his hands downwards, the rough brickwork tears the skin of his palms.
He returns to beside Oscar's body and kneels down beside him. He notices Martha casting him a quizzical look. His hands begin to glow as a gentle yellow light surrounds them.
The Tactician: Regeneration energy. High resting levels, I mightn't be able to regenerate, but I can certainly heal myself. I've never tired using it on someone else though.
He places his hands on Oscar's face as the glow from the energy becomes more intense and then stops. He removes his hands and a slight glow is observed in Oscar's cheeks. It dissipates too.
Martha: Did it work?
The Tactician: Give it a moment. I'm not sure.
Oscar coughs repeatedly for a moment and then sits up. He catches his breath after a minute and looks around. He is distressed as he realise he is surrounded by two strangers
Oscar(scared) who are you? Where am I?
Martha: It's ok, were here to help you. Where are your parents.
Oscar:(sad) Dead
The Tactician:When?
Oscar: Tonight, some baddies shot them. I ran away, did I do good.
The Tactician: What's your name?
Oscar: Oscar.
The Tactician: Well Oscar, you've done great. I need to ask one more thing of you though. As well as you can remember, tell me what happened tonight.
Oscar: We where out at the shops and were going home. Two scary men appeared in the alleyway. My dad told me to run, so I came here to hide.
The Tactician removes the match box from his pocket and shows it to Oscar, then puts it back in his pocket
The Tactician: What can you tell me about this?
Oscar: It was on the ground over there. It had five matches in it. I was cold though, so I lit them. It was awesome though, when I did, I had the most awesome dreams about a man called the Doctor and his super sweet spaceship.
Martha: Did you ever meet him, the Doctor?
Oscar: No, it was just a dream.
Martha: Give me a minute to talk to my friend.
Martha and the Tactician step into the middle of the alleyway, out of earshot of Oscar. They are talking in whispers
Martha: That's why the Doctor was here, I'll bet he was trying to save Oscar, that's why he's here.
The Tactician: I agree, this little box, I think it's laced with something, I've never seen anything like it.
The Tactician: His parents were killed tonight. It's Christmas Eve, so I'm not having that. I lost my parents at a young age too, it was horrible. I wouldn't wish it on anyone.
Martha: What are you suggesting?
The Tactician: We give him the best Christmas present we can. I have my TARDIS. All he said was he heard gunshots, that's not set in stone, is it.
He removes a car key from his pocket. He holds one of the buttons and his TARDIS appears silently in the middle of the alley. He is still using the shape of a Lamborghini as his Chameleon Circuit selection
Oscar: Awesome car. Can I have a joinery in it?
The Tactician: Of course you can. We're going to pick up your mum and dad too.
They all get into the TARDIS and it disappears as silently as it arrived.
Alleyway, a few hours earlier
Man 1: Our orders are to kill you all.
Oliver watches as his son runs from the scene, he reaches out and grabs his wife's hand. He can feel her shaking as she is overcome by fear.
Oliver: What could we have done to you to warrant this?
A voice belonging to a tall man, now wearing his usual grey pinstripe suit with its plain black tie, came from behind the Campbells. He was holding a gun.
The Tactician: They've done nothing, I'm not letting you hurt them.
He shoots both the men who dissolve into a creamy liquid which mixes readily with the snow.
The Tactician:(angry) Flesh Avatars, cowards!
Oliver: Who where they?
Lucy: Never mind that, where's Oscar.
The Tactician: He's in the car. Get in, I'll take you home.
Oliver: Wait, you're that guy, Mr. Miller, the Tactician. I've seen you on TV. Pleasure to meet you, I'm Doctor Oliver Campbell.
Lucy gets into the TARDIS eager to meet her son again. The Tactician uses the opportunity to talk to Oliver alone.
The Tactician: What are you involved in?
Oliver: Nothing special
The Tactician: They're not from Earth, they must have come here for a reason.
Oliver: Nothing springs to mind. Perhaps a crime of opportunity?
The Tactician:(Unconvinced) That must be it.
They both enter the TARDIS, it dematerialises, leaving the events of the night behind them
Outside Campbell Household, 00:01 25th December 2013
The TARDIS appears in the driveway and the Campbell family step out, they are followed by Martha and the Tactician.
Oliver: Mr. Miller I can't thank you enough. Please come in for a while, have some mulled wine and biscuits.
Oscar tugs at the Tactician's suit, trying to attract his attention
Oscar: Will you tell Santa Clause I've been a good boy?
The Tactician: Oscar, I'd say he already knows. Oliver, I'll take you up on your offer, it's Christmas.
They all enter the house
The End
It's Christmas time in the village, a gentle snow fall caresses the landscape as people excitedly dash between shops, desperate to complete last minute shopping. A distant bell rang out against the night sky, informing the shoppers that only eight hours remained until the big day. The peaceful joyous atmosphere was completed by the choir at the centre of town, singing classic Christmas Carols.
The Campbell family were out to buy their turkey for their family gathering tomorrow. Oliver Campbell, his wife Lucy and their nine year old son Oscar. Lucy was expecting and was due anytime in the next two weeks, she had hope for the sake of the family and Christmas celebrations, that she would be able to hold off until at least after Boxing Day, when they were hosting the entire wider family for Dinner.
She smiled as she watched young Oscar press himself up against the window of the toy shop admiring its contents.
Oscar:Mummy, look at that, this is so cool, I hope Santa leaves me that.
Oliver: Now Oscar, you know what I told you about asking for too much.
He winked at his wife, safe in the knowledge that the toy Oscar was admiring was sitting wrapped in his mother's house, ready to be picked up that night
Lucy: Only the boys who have been best behaved all year, could even hope to get something like that.
Oscar: But I have been Mummy. I haven't told lies all year and have only been bold once.
Lucy gasped as the baby kicked out unexpectedly in her stomach. He husband immediately grabbed her by the shoulders to support her
Lucy: Your little brother is saying hello. Oscar come here and you can feel him kicking.
Oliver We had best get going, get you in out of this weather. I couldn't live with myself if anything happened to you or the baby. We'll take the shortcut home.
He pointed towards the alleyway which ran from the centre of town to the street next to the one on which they lived. Going that way would cut out the trek through town and allow them to make it home in half the time.
Lucy: Good call, I'm starting to feel a little tired, I don't think I could make the long way.
When they were halfway down the alleyway, they were stopped my two men emerging from the opposite side. They were armed and their faces were covered with black masks and hoods.
Oliver:(whispering) Oscar run, as fast you can, back into town. Don't stop until you are safe.
Man 1: Oliver Campbell?
Oliver: What is it to you? What do you want?
Man 2: You dead.
Oliver: If that's what you're after, fine, just let my wife and unborn child live. They haven't done anything wrong.
Man 1: Our orders are to kill you all.
Oscar ran as fast as his legs would carry him, not daring to look back. The sound of the wind rushing in his ears drowned out the noise of his fathers pleas.
As he reached the end of the alleyway, he heard the sound of two gunshots in quick succession. He ran again, fear and despair overwhelming his frail little body.
Oscar:(shouting) Mummy! Daddy! Help Me!
Now he had got lost, running aimlessly as far away from the gunshot as he could, he was in an area he didn't recognise. There was no one around and the snowstorm was becoming more violent. The alleyways were more open here, and he noticed footsteps going towards the centre.
He followed them, and was now standing in the middle of the widening of the alleyway. It was here that the footprints abruptly stopped. They were too deep for the snow to have filled them in, but there was no where their owner could have gone.
Sitting in the snow, barely covered by any of the fresh snowfall was a small rectangular box, the deepest of blues in colour.
Oscar:(to no one) What is it?
He picked up the box and ran over to the bins at the edge of the alley, taking shelter from the snowy gale between them. After playing with the box for a moment, it opened revealing its contents of five dark blue matches. Longing for the heat that a flame would offer, he closed his eyes, and struck a match.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 2/6
TARDIS Wardrobe
The Doctor is standing in front of the mirror in the TARDIS wardrobe. He is talking to his reflection debating who he is.
The Doctor: Are you the Doctor, the man who saves, the man who heals. But how can you be, you did what you did because it was the only way you could justify your actions in the time war. You were the Doctor because you did good, but you convince yourself that you did that out of atonement.
He discards a grey suit, in favour of a jet black one from the rail
The Doctor: Yet how can you atone for something that never happened. You saved lives because you wanted to, deep down you always knew the truth. You chose to act because you could, you had the power. You are the Time Lord Victorious, but you aren't even that, because he survived. You haven't won yet, for now your just the Valeyard.
He pulls a dark navy shirt from the rail and puts it on with his black suit. He goes over to the tie rack to decide on a tie.
The Doctor: Bow tie? No, too Doctor. Black tie? No, too dark, too Valeyard
He reaches into the back of the tie rack, straining to reach. He draws out his hand with a bright lime green tie.
The Doctor: I like that one, it'll do.
He returns to his position in front of the mirror, this time a more solemn look on his face.
The Doctor: I can't go on like this, Doctor or Valeyard, I need to decide, but I can't. How can I made that decision?
He clicked his fingers as a beaming smile broke across his face
The Doctor: Oh that's brilliant, whoever I am I'm a genius. The Planet of Projections, exactly where I need to go.
He runs off in the direction of the TARDIS console room
The Planet of Projections
A dark planet with a thick atmosphere. Light from the nearest star is of a barely significant intensity by the time it reaches the planet, and when it does it's blocked out by the black gaseous climate. A damp, dark and cold lump of rock, but there was something very special about this small planet. So say that it is sentient, that it looks into your soul and projects your inner demons to you.
The TARDIS materialises and the Doctor emerges. The colours of his new attire make him difficult to see, his tie and face being the only things to be seen. A gentle wind breezes by his face, he strains his ears thinking he can detect whispering voices in it.
Voice 1: Sweetie, what did I tell you about travelling alone?
The Doctor:(confused) River?
Voice 2: Raggedy Man, don't be alone.
The Doctor(panicked) Amy! Amy! Where are you?
He is about to run from the TARDIS after the voice, buts stops and catches his breath. He realises that if he moves too far from the TARDIS, he will never find it again
The Doctor: Relax Doctor, it's just a projection, you can do this
Now a young boy appears in front of him, the Doctor does not recognise him. There is a slight ghostly glow around the boy's outline
Boy:(scared) Who are you? Where am I?
The Doctor:(laughing) Million Dollar question there.
The Doctor:(sarcastically) What are you meant to be, my inner child?
Boy: I don't understand. My name is Oscar Campbell. I heard you say you were a Doctor, can you help me?
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story. Part 3/6
The Doctor: What can I help you with, your just an image, I'm not greeting sucked into this mind game.
The young boy disappears and is replaced by an elderly man with white whispy hair. The Doctor instantly recognises him as himself, in his first incarnation.
First Doctor: You would do well to remember where you began, who you are and what you do!
The First Doctor is encompassed with the glow of regeneration energy. Now a man who he doesn't recognise is standing, he vaguely recognises the face but can't place it. The man has short curly grey hair and wears a blue suit.
Unknown Man: If you knew where you were going, would it show you who you are.
The Doctor: Are you...? You've made the decision, so who are you.
The Doctor(angry) Tell me!
Unknown Man: Even if I knew, I couldn't tell you, the decision is yours to make, it's time to make it.
The Doctor: I've never felt so empty, I'm lost.
The Doctor blinks, in that short time, the man has disappeared and had been replaced by Oscar again.
Oscar: Me too. Where am I?
The Doctor: The Planet of Projections
Oscar:(excited) A real alien planet?
Oscar:(sighing) It's not very awesome is it? Too dark. I thought it would be like I seen on TV.
Oscar disappears again, and is replaced by Luke Smith. The last time the Doctor had spoken to Luke they had fought, with Luke believing he could have done more to prevent Sarah Jane's death.
The Doctor:(sorrowful) There wasn't anything I could have done, I tried my best.
Luke: I know, it's ok.
The Doctor: You mean you understand?
Luke: Of course I do, it's your mind, your opinions I'm only a projection. And even at that you can make me forgive you, how can you seek forgiveness when you cannot accept yourself.
The Doctor: You're right, but who do I accept, Doctor or Valeyard?
When the Doctor looks back, Luke has gone and Oscar is back
Oscar: What's a Valeyard?
The Doctor: Possibly me, I don't know yet.
Oscar: Didn't you say you were the Doctor. I hope you are, I'm getting really cold now and my parents have been shot. Please I need someone to help me.
The Doctor: You're not real.
Oscar disappears again, and this time is replaced by the Master, standing with one his wide grins
The Doctor:(Hatefully) You! you did this to me. Why didn't you let me die, you destroyed who I am. Why did you make me live?
The Master:(laughing) Such self hatred, I love it. Do you forget your talking to yourself?
The Master: Tell me Doctor, were your parents shot?
The Doctor: What is it to you?
The Master: I know the answer is no. You came here to help make a decision. I think you've already made up your mind.
The Doctor: How so?
The Master: A lost little boy looking help, and you're ignoring him, dismissing him as a projection. How can you even consider using the name of the Doctor?
The Doctor places his head in his hands and takes a moments silence. Without him realising the Master disappears and Oscar has returned. Oscar's voice snaps the Doctor out if his trance.
Oscar: Doctor, help me!
The Doctor: I'm here Oscar, tell me where and when you are from. I promise I'll find you.
Oscar: I'm from Emberton, sir. It's Christmas Eve. But I'm really sorry, I only have one match left in the box.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 4/6
The Doctor: Hold on Oscar, I'll be there soon. I need you to help me. What year? And whatever you do, don't light that last match. Save it for as long as you can.
Just as he has finished speaking, Oscar fades away in front of him. This time there is no projection to take his place. It's pitch black, the only light a faint glow coming from the TARDIS a few metres away.
He turns and walks towards the TARDIS. From behind he he hears a voice, one he instantly recognises. It belongs to Sarah Jane Smith, his face bears a look of grief as he pauses in the doorway of the TARDIS. He can't bring himself to look at her projection.
Sarah Jane: Hello, Doctor are you there?
The Doctor:(ashamed) I'm in here somewhere Sarah.
Sarah Jane: Someone has given you a chance to prove that you are the Doctor. Take it! The universe owes you this one. A lonely little boy needing help. How very Doctor.
The Doctor:(determined) I will.
The Doctor clicks his fingers and the TARDIS doors slam shut behind him. In an instant he is consumed by that childish energy which had become characteristic of his actions in this incarnation. He is running around the console, pushing buttons, pulling levels and twisting knobs. He stops abruptly placing his face in his hands
The Doctor: What year? It could be any, how do I guess?
Oscar: It's 2013 silly. Is this your ship, it's pretty cool.
Oscar has appeared in front of the Doctor and is standing beside the console. He is paler now and looks ill. The Doctor checks the screen of the TARDIS monitor to confirm that he is no longer on the planet of projections.
The Doctor:(surprised) I'm not...how are you here?
Oscar: Every time I strike a match, I dream I'm with you.
The Doctor: What matches?
Oscar: I found them on the floor. I know I shouldn't have lifted them, but I was so cold
The Doctor: I've found your village, I'll be there soon. Show me one of these matches.
Oscar: I can't I've used the last one. Sorry.
Oscar sits on the floor and crosses his legs, he is weak and shivering.
Oscar: It's nice and warm here, I could stay here forever. I think I'll go for a sleep now.
The Doctor: Stay awake, stay strong, but most importantly stay alive.
Oscar:(meekly) I can't, I don't have the energy.
The Doctor: No, not now. Stay awake a few moments, I've found you, but the TARDIS won't land with you...
The Doctor stops talking as Oscar disappears in front of him. He feels a sense of dread in his stomach
Emberton, Widening in Alleyway
Barely breathing, young Oscar sits huddled between the bins, his eyes closed, his mind far away. In his small hand he clutches a match, one who's flame is about to extinguish. His only movement is a slight tremor of his hand, as he shivers in the cold. As the match goes out, so does his life and he breathes his last, his muscles relax and his face looks at peace.
A wind stirs throughout the alleyway as the TARDIS materialises. The majestic blue box appears in the middle of the undisputed snow. The Doctor emerges and spots Oscar lying between the bins, he runs over to him
The Doctor: Come on Oscar please be alive.
The cold air stings the tears forming in the Doctor's eyes. He checks for signs of life, but knows in his hearts that it is hopeless.
He tries his hardest to compose himself and walks towards the TARDIS again. He doesn't make it before opening into floods of tears. He screams an agonising scream as he rests his head against the TARDIS. He is distraught, defeated
The Valeyard:(furious) Too long I have tried to save this universe. And all it does is spit it back at me. Not any more. From now on I get what I want. I am the Valeyard, and no one will stand in my way.
He pulls himself into the TARDIS and the doors close. The TARDIS dematerialises leaving only the prints in the snow as company to Oscars frail body.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 5/6
Two people dressed heavily with coats scarves and gloves were are only people still present in the village centre. They are dressed for the cold to such an extent, that they are barely recognisable. All the shops have closed for the night, not to open again until Boxing Day at the earliest. One of the two people, the man is holding a small electrical device with protruding antennae.
The Tactician: No, I've lost it, the signal, it was right there, now it's gone. That's not possible.
He gives the side of the device a firm hit, a periodic bleep is emitted
The Tactician: Bingo! Gotcha! We're not far now Martha, signals coming from one of those alleyways to the west.
Martha: And this signal? You say it's Timelord, how's that possible?
The Tactician: It's not, unless it's him.
Martha: The Doctor?
The Tactician: The only Timelord not on Gallifrey. The Master sent him away, that I vaguely remember.
Martha: The Master? They hated each other, I've met the Master, there's no way he's capable of an act of kindness
They had reached a junction in the alleyway system. The Tactician was using the scanner device to determine their directions
The Tactician: We go left
A moments silence ensued
Martha: I've been meaning to ask, Mike Miller or The Tactician. Which is it? I've heard you use both.
The Tactician: Situation Dependant.
Martha:(laughing) What does that mean?
The Tactician: I don't know. (He pauses for a moment) They're both my name, well the Tactician was to be my chosen name, but Gallifrey fell before I could take it on. I use it when I can, but sometimes it feels like a cheat, other times it reminds me off-
They have reached a widening in the alleyway, the scanner had started bleeping faster and there was a large square imprint in the snow at the centre of the alleyway. There are footsteps coming from this square towards the bins at the side of the alleyway and back towards the square shaped impression
Martha: He been here alright, the Doctor.
The Tactician: We must have missed him by a few moments. The energy levels are still high.
The Tactician was already heading towards the bins, following the footsteps. Once he reached and seen what lay behind, he let out a heartfelt groan of agony
The Tactician: Oh god! No! This can't be happening, come here Martha.
Martha quickly made her way over. Upon seeing the child's body, she dropped to her knees, checking for signs of life
Martha: He dead. Oh that poor little boy.
The Tactician:(Solemnly) Martha, there's only one set of footprints. And this poor boys clothes are too good for him to have been a homeless shelterer.
Martha: What are you saying?
The Tactician You travelled with the Doctor, could he have done this.
Martha: Not a chance, he's like you. Wouldn't hurt a fly, and tries to save everyone he can. You know, you remind me of him a lot, the fight within you, the will to always do good, you are well aware of your place in the universe. As is he, your suggestion is impossible. But then, I never thought he could have left me like he did.
Something on the ground catches the eye of the Tactician as he bends down to pick it up. It's a small dark blue rectangular box. He opens it to find it is empty.
The Tactician: Look familiar?
Martha: TARDIS blue!
The Tactician: I really don't like the look of this.
They exchange glances as they stand in silence contemplating where they go next with the situation in front of them
The Tactician: No, you're right. There's no way the Doctor could do something like this. Absolutely not, this looks worse for him than it is.
Martha is distant, not listening to what he is saying, she is now looking at Oscars body, her mind processing thoughts.
Martha: It's Christmas Eve, and some poor family is about to get the worst news imaginable.
The Tactician: No, not happening.
Martha:(confused) Huh?
The Tactician: It doesn't have to be that way, I've got an idea. A long shot, but it just might work.
The Little Match Boy - A Christmas Story Part 6/6
(Don't read unless you have read all previous parts)
The Tactician: Time Lords have a little trick, a special way of cheating death. It's called regeneration, every cell in your body is renewed, basically you get a new body.
Martha: I know, the Doctor told me. How would that help anyway?
The Tactician: It's a tricky process though. It has a couple of prerequisites. It needs a lot of energy and your body needs to be fully developed, you need to be a certain age for that. I'm not old enough, I haven't learned how, so I can't do it.
Martha: So you can't regenerate? That's a little rubbish
The Tactician: Yes it is, a lot rubbish, it makes young Time Lords vulnerable. Or it would have, if not for a mutation that occurred over ten thousand years ago. Evolutionary selection means everyone has it now, and it means I can do this.
He walks over to the wall and places his palms on the wall. He grimaces his face and clenches his teeth as he drags his hands downwards, the rough brickwork tears the skin of his palms.
He returns to beside Oscar's body and kneels down beside him. He notices Martha casting him a quizzical look. His hands begin to glow as a gentle yellow light surrounds them.
The Tactician: Regeneration energy. High resting levels, I mightn't be able to regenerate, but I can certainly heal myself. I've never tired using it on someone else though.
He places his hands on Oscar's face as the glow from the energy becomes more intense and then stops. He removes his hands and a slight glow is observed in Oscar's cheeks. It dissipates too.
Martha: Did it work?
The Tactician: Give it a moment. I'm not sure.
Oscar coughs repeatedly for a moment and then sits up. He catches his breath after a minute and looks around. He is distressed as he realise he is surrounded by two strangers
Oscar(scared) who are you? Where am I?
Martha: It's ok, were here to help you. Where are your parents.
Oscar:(sad) Dead
The Tactician:When?
Oscar: Tonight, some baddies shot them. I ran away, did I do good.
The Tactician: What's your name?
Oscar: Oscar.
The Tactician: Well Oscar, you've done great. I need to ask one more thing of you though. As well as you can remember, tell me what happened tonight.
Oscar: We where out at the shops and were going home. Two scary men appeared in the alleyway. My dad told me to run, so I came here to hide.
The Tactician removes the match box from his pocket and shows it to Oscar, then puts it back in his pocket
The Tactician: What can you tell me about this?
Oscar: It was on the ground over there. It had five matches in it. I was cold though, so I lit them. It was awesome though, when I did, I had the most awesome dreams about a man called the Doctor and his super sweet spaceship.
Martha: Did you ever meet him, the Doctor?
Oscar: No, it was just a dream.
Martha: Give me a minute to talk to my friend.
Martha and the Tactician step into the middle of the alleyway, out of earshot of Oscar. They are talking in whispers
Martha: That's why the Doctor was here, I'll bet he was trying to save Oscar, that's why he's here.
The Tactician: I agree, this little box, I think it's laced with something, I've never seen anything like it.
The Tactician: His parents were killed tonight. It's Christmas Eve, so I'm not having that. I lost my parents at a young age too, it was horrible. I wouldn't wish it on anyone.
Martha: What are you suggesting?
The Tactician: We give him the best Christmas present we can. I have my TARDIS. All he said was he heard gunshots, that's not set in stone, is it.
He removes a car key from his pocket. He holds one of the buttons and his TARDIS appears silently in the middle of the alley. He is still using the shape of a Lamborghini as his Chameleon Circuit selection
Oscar: Awesome car. Can I have a joinery in it?
The Tactician: Of course you can. We're going to pick up your mum and dad too.
They all get into the TARDIS and it disappears as silently as it arrived.
Alleyway, a few hours earlier
Man 1: Our orders are to kill you all.
Oliver watches as his son runs from the scene, he reaches out and grabs his wife's hand. He can feel her shaking as she is overcome by fear.
Oliver: What could we have done to you to warrant this?
A voice belonging to a tall man, now wearing his usual grey pinstripe suit with its plain black tie, came from behind the Campbells. He was holding a gun.
The Tactician: They've done nothing, I'm not letting you hurt them.
He shoots both the men who dissolve into a creamy liquid which mixes readily with the snow.
The Tactician:(angry) Flesh Avatars, cowards!
Oliver: Who where they?
Lucy: Never mind that, where's Oscar.
The Tactician: He's in the car. Get in, I'll take you home.
Oliver: Wait, you're that guy, Mr. Miller, the Tactician. I've seen you on TV. Pleasure to meet you, I'm Doctor Oliver Campbell.
Lucy gets into the TARDIS eager to meet her son again. The Tactician uses the opportunity to talk to Oliver alone.
The Tactician: What are you involved in?
Oliver: Nothing special
The Tactician: They're not from Earth, they must have come here for a reason.
Oliver: Nothing springs to mind. Perhaps a crime of opportunity?
The Tactician:(Unconvinced) That must be it.
They both enter the TARDIS, it dematerialises, leaving the events of the night behind them
Outside Campbell Household, 00:01 25th December 2013
The TARDIS appears in the driveway and the Campbell family step out, they are followed by Martha and the Tactician.
Oliver: Mr. Miller I can't thank you enough. Please come in for a while, have some mulled wine and biscuits.
Oscar tugs at the Tactician's suit, trying to attract his attention
Oscar: Will you tell Santa Clause I've been a good boy?
The Tactician: Oscar, I'd say he already knows. Oliver, I'll take you up on your offer, it's Christmas.
They all enter the house
The End