Changing The Future

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 1

The Doctor and Adric were in the console room of the Tardis, en-route to their next unknown destination, after leaving E-space. The Doctor was sad and comforted himself by holding his maroon scarf to his face, which was on the coat stand.

ADRIC-------Don't worry, Doctor. Romana will be okay.
DOCTOR----I'm sure she will.
ADRIC-------She can look after herself, you know.
DOCTOR----Oh, I do know that, Adric.
ADRIC-------I do miss her though.
DOCTOR----So do I. Little Miss bossy boots. Always thought her intellect was superior to mine in everything, just because she did better at the Academy that I did.
ADRIC-------So, wasn't she?
DOCTOR----Certainly not! Wisdom comes from experience, Adric, and not books.
ADRIC-------I suppose you're right.
DOCTOR----Once you've had more experience, you'll see.
ADRIC-------Do you think K9 will stay repaired?
DOCTOR----Yes.
ADRIC-------It seems strange without him being under your feet.
DOCTOR----Yes. It's like losing your best friend. Ah!
ADRIC-------What is it? Are you in pain?
DOCTOR----I've just had a brilliant idea.
ADRIC-------So it's pain then.
DOCTOR----Are you trying to be funny?
ADRIC-------Yes, but not very well it would seem.
DOCTOR----Stick to mathematics, Adric, hmm.
ADRIC-------So, what's your idea?
DOCTOR----How about a little visit to see K9?
ADRIC-------You mean, we go back into E-space?
DOCTOR----No, I do not mean that.
ADRIC-------I don't understand.
DOCTOR----The other K9.
ADRIC-------The other K9? You mean, there's two of them?
DOCTOR----Well obviously.
ADRIC-------But, I thought there was only one.
DOCTOR----The other's on Gallifrey with an old friend of mine. Coming?
ADRIC-------Do I have a choice?
DOCTOR----Of course you do. I could drop you off somewhere and go alone.
ADRIC-------If it's all the same to you, Doctor, I'll stay with you.
DOCTOR----Good lad. Right, Gallifrey, here we come!

The Doctor set the co-ordinates and a few minutes later they arrived on the planet. He and Adric left the Tardis. The Doctor raced away leaving Adric trying to catch him up.

ADRIC-------Wait, Doctor!
DOCTOR----Sorry. I keep forgetting your legs are shorter than mine.
ADRIC-------Where are we going?
DOCTOR----To see K9. Come on, this way.
ADRIC-------How much further is it?
DOCTOR----Not far. Ah!
ADRIC-------What now?
DOCTOR----I spy a familiar face. Andred! Andred! It's me, the Doctor.
ANDRED----(bitterly) I know very well who you are.
DOCTOR----How are you? What's the matter?
ANDRED----I swore that if I ever saw you again, I'd kill you.
DOCTOR----Not that old chestnut again. I thought we were friends.
ANDRED----That was before Leela did what she did because of you.
DOCTOR----How is Leela?
ANDRED----Dead I hope.
DOCTOR----You don't mean that.
ANDRED----Oh, yes, I do.
DOCTOR----Where is Leela?
ANDRED----Expelled.
DOCTOR----Expelled?!
ANDRED----That's what I said.
DOCTOR----But why?
ANDRED----That is none of your business.
DOCTOR----I think it's very much my business. Did she kill someone?
ANDRED----No. What she did was much worse.
DOCTOR----Worse than murder?
ANDRED----Yes.
DOCTOR----But what?
ANDRED----She betrayed me - all of us on Gallifrey.
DOCTOR----But what did she do that's so terrible?
ANDRED----Ask her yourself.
DOCTOR----Oh I intend to do just that, Andred.
ANDRED----Provided she's not already dead.
DOCTOR----Then for your sake, you'd better hope she isn't. Come on, Adric.

Adric followed the Doctor outside the Capitol. The Doctor called out to Leela several times but got no response.

ADRIC-------Perhaps she is dead.
DOCTOR----What? Oh, what nonsense. She can look after herself.
ADRIC-------Like Romana.
DOCTOR----Better than Romana.
ADRIC-------We seem to have company, Doctor.
DOCTOR----What?

The Doctor looked round and saw they were surrounded by Shobogans. The Doctor raised his hands and nudged Adric, who copied.

RABIN-------What do you want here?
DOCTOR----We're looking for someone.
RABIN-------And, who might that be?
DOCTOR----Her name is Leela. I understand she was expelled, I don't know how long ago.
RABIN-------And, what do you want with Leela?
DOCTOR----I've already told you. She's a friend, and we're looking for her.
ADRIC-------Doctor, let's just go back to the Tardis.
RABIN-------Doctor?
DOCTOR----Yes.
RABIN-------You are the Doctor? The one we aided to dispose of the Sontarans?
DOCTOR----I am.
RABIN-------Leela and Nesbin have talked a lot about you. Come. I will take you to them.
DOCTOR----Leela's still alive then?
RABIN-------Of course. Her and the child are very well.
DOCTOR----Child?
RABIN-------He is six years now. Already he is a good hunter.
DOCTOR----Just like his mother.
RABIN-------Yes. Come.

The Doctor and Adric followed Rabin and the others over several miles before being led into some caves in the mountains.

DOCTOR----It hasn't changed.
RABIN-------What hasn't?
DOCTOR----The mountains and surrounding area.
RABIN-------You know it?
DOCTOR----I used to play here as a child.
RABIN-------Please wait here. I will tell Leela and Nesbin you are here. (leaves).
DOCTOR----Of course.
ADRIC-------What is this place, Doctor?
DOCTOR----Caves, of course.
ADRIC-------I know that.
DOCTOR----It's obviously the Shobogan's base. I wonder why Andred didn't mention the child? It is his son after all.
ADRIC-------Looks like you won't have to wait long before finding out.
LEELA-------Doctor!
DOCTOR----Hello Leela.
LEELA-------It is so good to see you again.
DOCTOR----And you. Although I didn't expect to find you out here. What happened, Leela?
LEELA-------Happened?
DOCTOR----Between you and Andred. I thought you were so happy.
LEELA-------We were. But that was before.
DOCTOR----Before what? Why can't I get a straight answer out of you or Andred?
LEELA-------You have seen Andred?
DOCTOR----He told us where you were but not why.
LEELA-------Is he well?
DOCTOR----Well enough to blame me for what happened.
LEELA-------It is not your fault, Doctor. It is all mine.
DOCTOR----That probably won't stop him wanting to kill me.
LEELA-------He still threatens that?
ADRIC-------He hoped you were dead too.
DOCTOR----Adric.
LEELA-------It does not matter. It has taken this to realise he is wrong for me.
DOCTOR----Taken what?
LEELA-------I will explain soon, Doctor. I am sorry.... Adric, but I must only tell the Doctor. He will understand.
ADRIC-------And I won't?
LEELA-------I am sorry. I do not mean to exclude you.
DOCTOR----"Exclude"? You have learned a lot since I last saw you.
LEELA-------I had to learn to survive on your world, Doctor.
DOCTOR----Now you know why I left.
LEELA-------I will talk to Nesbin and the tribe, Adric. They are good friends. They will look after you.
ADRIC-------Fine.
LEELA-------It will not be for long.
ADRIC-------Okay.
LEELA-------Follow me.

A few minutes later they arrived at Leela's part of the cave. She asked the Doctor to sit down and sent her child to Nesbin.

DOCTOR----Fine looking boy.
LEELA-------Thank you.
DOCTOR----I understand he's become a hunter.
LEELA-------Out here he will need to learn a lot to survive.
DOCTOR----You don't have to stay here, you know.
LEELA-------I'm afraid I do.
DOCTOR----I'm sure it's nothing that a little talking won't solve.
LEELA-------It is no good, Doctor.
DOCTOR----But, he's your husband, Leela.
LEELA-------Not any longer. The High Council have annulled it.
DOCTOR----Annulled it?
LEELA-------That is the words they used.
DOCTOR----But, what about the boy?
LEELA-------What about him?
DOCTOR----Surely he can't be so heartless as to see his own child grow up out here. What's the matter? Leela? Are you ever going to tell me what went wrong?
LEELA-------It is not easy for me, Doctor.
DOCTOR----I understand that. But, if I know, I might be able to help you.
LEELA-------There is no help for me. I should never have left my tribe. If I had stayed none of this would have happened.
DOCTOR----None of what? Come on, Leela. Out with it.
LEELA-------Andred is not the father of my son.
DOCTOR----Then, who is? Leela? Oh, no.
LEELA-------It is all my fault.
DOCTOR----You're damn right it is!
LEELA-------I was confused, you know that.
DOCTOR----Yes I do but I never thought you and....
LEELA-------You cannot even say his name can you, Doctor?
DOCTOR----I wish I'd never come across him.
LEELA-------But you did. We did. You cannot change the past, Doctor.
DOCTOR----I know. What's done is done.
LEELA-------Yes. So you cannot change the fact that Avon is the father.
DOCTOR----Oh, Leela.
LEELA-------Like you said, Doctor. What's done is done.
DOCTOR----Did you tell Andred?
LEELA-------No.
DOCTOR----Then how did he know?
LEELA-------Andred cannot have children.
DOCTOR----You knew that but still went ahead with Avon?!
LEELA-------No! I did not know until after I found out. I was unhappy and confused.
DOCTOR----I know.
LEELA-------So do not judge me. I love my son and I don't care if I am out here.
DOCTOR----I can see that. And now?
LEELA-------Now?
DOCTOR----Are you still confused?
LEELA-------No. I know now it is Avon I love and I want to be with him.
DOCTOR----That might not be possible.
LEELA-------Why? Is he dead?
DOCTOR----I don't know. But so much has happened since you last saw him, Leela.
LEELA-------Oh. Well, if I cannot be with him, can you take me home?
DOCTOR----Home?
LEELA-------My tribe. I have good friends here but I do not fit in. I want to go home. I want my son to be a warrior of the Sevateem.
DOCTOR----I can understand that. But would you be happy, even without Avon?
LEELA-------With my son I can be. But I would rather have both of them.
DOCTOR----All right, Leela. Look, I'll take you back to your tribe and then try and find Avon, okay?
LEELA-------Thank you, Doctor.
DOCTOR----Don't thank me yet. I won't, however, mention the child.
LEELA-------Why not?
DOCTOR----Because if he does decided he wants to be with you, I'd prefer it if it wasn't because of his son.
LEELA-------I understand.
DOCTOR----I don't want you to be hurt, Leela, and I'm afraid he might just do that.
LEELA-------Yes, you are right. Thank you, Doctor.
DOCTOR----Shall we go?
LEELA-------Now?
DOCTOR----There's no time like the present, and we'll try not to bump into Andred on the way to the Tardis.
LEELA-------It will be difficult.
DOCTOR----But not impossible. I probably know more back routes than he has fingers. Come on.

The Doctor and Leela collected Adric and the boy, said their goodbyes then made their way towards the Tardis via the ventilation shafts. The Doctor returned Leela to her people and asked Adric to look after her until he got back then programmed the Tardis to take him to Servalan's Presidential residence in the future. He materialised in her office and switched on the scanner to check for guards. He was relieved when he saw her alone behind her desk reclining in her chair. He turned off the scanner, opened the doors and stepped outside.

SERVALAN---Ah, Doctor. Nice of you to drop in.
DOCTOR----That's one way of putting it. How are you?
SERVALAN---Very well.
DOCTOR----Still President?
SERVALAN---Obviously.
DOCTOR----Unopposed?
SERVALAN----Naturally.
DOCTOR----Stupid question. No pockets of resistance?
SERVALAN---None at all.
DOCTOR----All good little brain-dead sheep?
SERVALAN---Oh yes.
DOCTOR----I can't say I approve.
SERVALAN---I don't care whether you approve or not. It's the way things are done here.
DOCTOR----It's inhuman.
SERVALAN---Perhaps. But it keeps order and that's all that's important.
DOCTOR----Apart from absolute megalomania.
SERVALAN---That's only your opinion.
DOCTOR----Speaking of megalomaniacs, how's Avon?
SERVALAN---I really have no idea.
DOCTOR----Isn't he here?
SERVALAN---No. He left - suddenly - a few months ago.
DOCTOR----Haven't you tried to find him?
SERVALAN---He'll be found. And, how is Vila?
DOCTOR----Vila's dead, remember?
SERVALAN---Oh yes, so you said.
DOCTOR----You still don't believe me?
SERVALAN---I would prefer a body.
DOCTOR----Then I'll have to disappoint you. Vila was cremated.
SERVALAN---How convenient.
DOCTOR----As he's dead, Servalan, it wouldn't matter if it was convenient or not. He wouldn't have felt anything.
SERVALAN---He didn't while he was, 'alive'. So it would make no difference.
DOCTOR----Besides, what would he do in 1973 if he was alive? It's not his time. He would never have fitted in, and would've begged me to take him back.
SERVALAN---True. Without Avon at least, he'd have been lost.
DOCTOR----Well, thank you for your time. I can see you're very busy.
SERVALAN---Oh, I am. I'm sorry I couldn't help you about Avon.
DOCTOR----So am I. He's probably dead by now anyway.
SERVALAN---(smiles) Probably. Goodbye Doctor.
DOCTOR----Goodbye Servalan.
SERVALAN---Oh, Doctor?
DOCTOR----Yes?
SERVALAN---What did you want to see him about?
DOCTOR----Oh, nothing really. I just thought I'd pop in and see how you were both getting on.
SERVALAN---I see. And, will you be looking for Avon at all?
DOCTOR----No. I don't see the point of going from one place to another - probably for months, years - only to find out he's either dead or is where I'd just been. The proverbial needle in a haystack you might say.
SERVALAN---Well he did give me the needle several times.
DOCTOR----So I understand. By the way, how are the children?
SERVALAN---Very well, thank you.
DOCTOR----And, how many is it now?
SERVALAN---At the last count? Seventeen.
DOCTOR----Seventeen?! That's an awful lot of children.
SERVALAN---I know. I had to have them. It was all very primitive. Still, the plastic surgeons can do wonderful things these days.
DOCTOR----If I did come across Avon by some remote chance on my travels, is there any message you'd like me to pass on?
SERVALAN---Yes. You can tell him that if I ever find out where he is, or returns to Earth, I will personally kill him.
DOCTOR----Right. So, he's not on Earth then?
SERVALAN---I don't know. I presume not. He'd be very stupid to have stayed otherwise.
DOCTOR----Yes. And Avon was supposed to be the clever one.
SERVALAN---Supposed to be, yes.
DOCTOR----Can I go now or is there something else you want to say?
SERVALAN---No. You may go.
DOCTOR----Thank you. Enjoy your power, Madame President.
SERVALAN---Oh, I will, Doctor. You can be sure of that.
DOCTOR----I'm not sure of anything any more, Servalan. Cheerio then.

Servalan watched as the Doctor waved, entered the Tardis and dematerialised smiling. Once he'd gone the smile disappeared.

SERVALAN---If you weren't a Time Lord, Doctor, I would have you executed.

The communicator bleeped.

SERVALAN---Yes?
GUARD------<Message for you, Madame President. Shall I put it through?>
SERVALAN---Who's it from?
GUARD------<It just says, "from an old friend".>
SERVALAN---Very well.

The Doctor's face appeared on the screen much to Servalan's surprise.

SERVALAN---Doctor!
DOCTOR----Hello Servalan.
SERVALAN---What do you want this time?
DOCTOR----Oh, just to tell you that you should be grateful I am a Time Lord. You should be grateful for all Time Lords otherwise you wouldn't be where you are today, especially if the Rani wasn't as warped as you. But beware, Servalan. One day things might not be the same as they are now. And, if you did anything to any Time Lord, the High Council could see to it you were never born. So beware, Servalan. Go too far and who knows what might happen to you. Bye bye.

The screen went blank but Servalan wasn't worried.


To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 2

Meanwhile, in the Tardis....

DOCTOR----Stupid woman. If I wasn't so nice I'd really like something terrible to happen to her. Now, where did I put that little box of tricks?

He searched cupboard after cupboard, room after room and broke into a broad grin when he spotted his quarry.

DOCTOR----I knew you were here somewhere. Key. Key.

He searched the room then his pockets and proudly held it up like Excalibur.

DOCTOR----Key!

He refilled his pockets then took his quarry to the console room where he activated it.

DOCTOR----How are you doing, Orac?
ORAC--------Achoo!
DOCTOR----I didn't know computers caught colds.
ORAC--------They don't! I have a significant amount of dust in my primary circuits.
DOCTOR----Oh. Well, I'm sorry about that.
ORAC--------So you should be! Couldn't you have stored me properly, used me more often, or at least given me a clean once in a while?
DOCTOR----I've been busy, you know. Anyway, where I put you was only temporary.
ORAC--------And, how long was I there?
DOCTOR----Oooh, about fifty years.
ORAC--------Fifty years?! It's very surprising I still work at all!
DOCTOR----Well, you do, and as you do, I'd like you to do a little job for me.
ORAC--------Well, it's about time I did something different. Very well. What is it you'd like me to do?
DOCTOR----Find Avon.
ORAC--------Is he lost?
DOCTOR----In a manner of speaking. He seems to have disappeared.
ORAC--------I will do my best. When and where was his previous location?
DOCTOR----When? I'm not too sure. But, he was married to Servalan and living on Earth at her Presidential palace.
ORAC--------Married to Servalan?! I-I can't believe he would do something as stupid as that!
DOCTOR----I couldn't believe it either, Orac. But part of the bargain was to keep you from her clutches. Now, I've just left her and we're still in this time, so roughly he was last here about five years ago.
ORAC--------Roughly?
DOCTOR----It's only an estimate. He probably left a few years after, but five years ago was the last time I saw him.
ORAC--------Very well. I will try to discover his present location.
DOCTOR----Thank you, Orac.
ORAC--------On one condition.
DOCTOR----You won't do it for me?
ORAC--------No.
DOCTOR----Or Avon? He could be in terrible trouble, you know.
ORAC--------No.
DOCTOR----It's important, Orac!
ORAC--------Then you'd better agree, hadn't you?
DOCTOR----Looks like I've got no choice. No wonder Vila didn't like you. What's the condition, Orac?
ORAC--------If you are to continue taking care of me, you will use me more often, clean my circuits regularly so I am kept free of dust, and never put me in a cupboard or room again.
DOCTOR----Bossy little so-and-so, aren't you? All right, Orac, you win. Once you've found Avon, I'll clean you out, okay?
ORAC--------It will be to our mutual advantage.
DOCTOR----Well, what are you waiting for? Find Avon.
ORAC--------I already have.
DOCTOR----What?! When?
ORAC--------Before I made my conditions.
DOCTOR----Why didn't you tell me before?
ORAC--------If I had, you'd have locked me away again. This way, it was to both our advantage.
DOCTOR----Well?
ORAC--------Well, what? I do wish you would clarify questions instead of sounding like Vila.
DOCTOR----Where is he?
ORAC--------Earth in the year, 1973.
DOCTOR----Not Vila, you moron! Avon!
ORAC--------Why didn't you just say so in the first place? Avon is on the Federation penal colony, Cygnus Alpha and, from what I understand, has been there ten months.
DOCTOR----What's he doing there?
ORAC--------Is that a serious question, Doctor?
DOCTOR----Not to you, obviously. How did he get there?
ORAC--------By Federation cruiser.
DOCTOR----Federation cruiser?! That woman again. Orac, can you give me the co-ordinates?
ORAC--------There is no need. I have already programmed them into your inferior Tardis. We will be there in nineteen minutes. That gives you plenty of time.
DOCTOR----For what? All right, Orac. I'll go and get the sponge. Although I won't have you insult my Tardis, you know. The sooner I get you to Avon the better.

Meanwhile....

LEELA-------The Doctor has been gone a long time
ADRIC-------Don't worry. He'll be back as soon as he's found this Avon of yours.
LEELA-------He is not my Avon.
ADRIC-------But, you'd like him to be.
LEELA-------If it is possible. Perhaps, the Doctor has discovered he is dead and cannot tell me.
ADRIC-------He wouldn't do that. He's obviously having trouble finding him.
LEELA-------Why is it obvious? Avon might still be alive and the Doctor may have found him. You do not know. Avon might not want me any more.
ADRIC-------It's no good guessing until the Doctor gets here.
LEELA-------No. You are right. I am trying to be realistic.
ADRIC-------Not build your hopes up in case you're right?
LEELA-------Yes.
ADRIC-------I'm sure the Doctor won't be much longer.
LEELA-------I hope not. I am no good at waiting.

Back in the future, the Tardis materialised inside a cell on Cygnus Alpha. The Doctor turned on the scanner and saw the back of a man lying on the filthy floor. He opened the doors.

DOCTOR----Not pretty. Right, you stay here, Orac.
ORAC--------I'm not very likely to run away, am I (?)
DOCTOR----I don't know. You might have hidden feet, or something. Give us a shout if anyone starts creeping up behind me.

Before Orac could offer more abuse, the Doctor was gone. He slowly made his way to the man, crouched beside him and gently rolled him over.

DOCTOR----Avon! Avon? Avon?

Avon slowly opened his eyes but it was obvious to the Doctor even that was an enormous effort. The Doctor was shocked to see this once healthy irritator, pale and very gaunt. Avon tried to speak. The Doctor leaned closer to hear.

AVON-------(hoarse) Water.
DOCTOR----Just a sec.

The Doctor looked around the cell but saw no water. He frantically went through his pockets and pulled out a bottle. He opened it and helped Avon to drink. Avon coughed.

AVON-------What is that stuff?
DOCTOR----Ginger pop. I'm afraid I didn't have any water.
AVON-------It's better than nothing, I suppose. Thank you, Doctor. How did you find me?
DOCTOR----Orac.
AVON-------So, you still have it.
DOCTOR----You can have it back if you like.
AVON-------And what use would it be to me, here?
DOCTOR----Escape committee?
AVON-------There is no escape from here. I did it once but that was pure luck. Then again, after what has happened to me since, perhaps it was pure bad luck.
DOCTOR----I could get you away from here.
AVON-------No good. I have very little time left.
DOCTOR----Nonsense.
AVON-------I know I am dying, Doctor.
DOCTOR----All you need is food and drink, Avon.
AVON-------I need much more than that. Servalan's thugs did a very good job on me. She saw to that - personally.
DOCTOR----What happened between you two?
AVON-------Once I outlived my usefulness, she decided to have me transported here.
DOCTOR----Outlived your usefulness?
AVON-------It was my brains that helped her keep power. Since I've been here, I've done a lot of thinking. After a few days my head was clear and I realised she had used me.
DOCTOR----How?
AVON-------To breed mainly. She wasn't able to discover where we had taken the survivors and gene stocks of Auron to so couldn't use their replication plant again. Any child with both our intellects would be - and is - very dangerous. I realised too how she must have drugged me in some way to keep me around as her faithful pet for some time. Once she got too old, that was the end for me. She could hardly have her pet executed, so I was brought here.
DOCTOR----Yes. She told me you'd left. I had a feeling she knew more than she was saying.
AVON-------You've seen her?
DOCTOR----I'd hoped to have seen you.
AVON-------Sorry about that. You know, I hadn't realised how much I hated her voice. Every time she speaks now she's older, it sounds like she's gasping for breath. It used to be so seductive. And her laugh. Hur, hur, hur. I hate it!
DOCTOR----I know what you mean. I am so sorry, Avon.
AVON-------So am I. Sorry I let all that power go to my head yet again, even when I knew I'd regret it.
DOCTOR----Is there anything I can do for you, Avon?
AVON-------Yes, thank you. If you see Leela and if, by chance, she should ask about me, please don't tell her about this.
DOCTOR----What should I tell her?
AVON-------Anything. Say I was killed fighting the Federation or something.
DOCTOR----I will.
AVON-------You don't like me do you, Doctor?
DOCTOR----Of course I do, Avon. I wouldn't be here otherwise.
AVON-------This is not the time to lie, Doctor.
DOCTOR----All right, Avon. I don't particularly like you and you have a lot to answer for but I wouldn't wish what you've recently been through on anyone.
AVON-------Except Servalan.
DOCTOR----Possibly.
AVON-------If there hadn't been that.... affection, between Leela and myself, would you have liked me then?
DOCTOR----It's hard to say.
AVON-------I should never have let her go when you last came to see us.
DOCTOR----Last?
AVON-------On Scorpio.
DOCTOR----Ah. Does she really mean that much to you?
AVON-------Yes, which is surprising really considering I have no heart.
DOCTOR----I could always let you have one of mine.
AVON-------What?
DOCTOR----Joke. Not funny.
AVON-------As funny as Vila's.
DOCTOR----Hilarious then.
AVON-------I'm splitting my sides with laughter (!) How is Leela?
DOCTOR----Very well. Well, she was the last time I saw her.
AVON-------Is she still with her husband?
DOCTOR----You said it wasn't the time for lies, Avon. No, she isn't.
AVON-------What happened, or shouldn't I ask?
DOCTOR----Something between them. I won't bore you with the details.
AVON-------I'd like to know, Doctor.
DOCTOR----Well, I suppose under the circumstances, you have a right to know. Leela had a child.
AVON-------My child?
DOCTOR----Yes.
AVON-------How do you know it's not her husband's?
DOCTOR----She told me. I saw Andred before I found out they weren't together any more and he was very angry but wouldn't say why. He even threatened to kill me.
AVON-------Why?
DOCTOR----He says it's my fault. If I hadn't taken her on that last trip it wouldn't have happened.
AVON-------And Leela?
DOCTOR----Now they're no longer married, I've taken her and the boy back to her people.
AVON-------A son.
DOCTOR----He looks very much like you, Avon.
AVON-------Does he? You aren't just saying that?
DOCTOR----I've seen him. It took a while before Leela would tell me, but as soon as I saw the boy, I knew.
AVON-------What is his name?
DOCTOR----She's called him, Vila.
AVON-------Vila?! Why?
DOCTOR----She says it's because your jealousy of him made her realise her feelings for you.
AVON-------So, Vila was good for something after all. Is he still safe on Earth?
DOCTOR----Oh, yes. He's having the time of his life.
AVON-------Good. It's a pity I will never see my son. It would be good to tell another Vila what to do all the time. But...
DOCTOR----But what?
AVON-------Doctor, what are Leela's feelings towards me now?
DOCTOR----What are yours?
AVON-------I still love her.
DOCTOR----Yes. Well, you'll be pleased to know she realises she'd made a mistake too and should never have married Andred. She wishes she was with you.
AVON-------It can be arranged.
DOCTOR----What are you playing at, Avon?
AVON-------You could take me to her.
DOCTOR----But you said yourself you're dying.
AVON-------I know and I don't want her to see me like this. But all this need never have happened with your help.
DOCTOR----Why do I get the feeling I know what you're going to say next?
AVON-------Only you can do it, Doctor.
DOCTOR----No, Avon.
AVON-------All you have to do is stop me going with Servalan.
DOCTOR----No!
AVON-------Why not?
DOCTOR----I can't change the past, Avon. It's against the laws of time.
AVON-------Then Leela will be unhappy, my son will never know his father, and Seravalan's offspring will probably colonise Leela's planet if they ever get time travel.
DOCTOR----What do you mean?
AVON-------You're forgetting the Rani.
DOCTOR----Yes I am, aren't I? All right.
AVON-------You'll do it?
DOCTOR----I'll think about it.
AVON-------Thank you, Doctor.
DOCTOR----Don't thank me yet.

The Doctor crossed to the window where he thought about it. After weighing up all the pros and cons, he came to a decision. He went to tell Avon but discovered he'd died.

DOCTOR----I'm sorry it had to end this way, Avon. But, I'll make sure it doesn't happen again.

He closed Avon's eyes, went into the Tardis, closed the doors and programmed the co-ordinates for UNIT HQ, 1973. The Tardis materialised in the Brigadier's office so as not to alert his previous self. The Doctor activated Orac.

ORAC--------What is it now?
DOCTOR----I was just wondering if you could tell me where I could find Avon?
ORAC--------In this timestream, as I think you call it?
DOCTOR----Yes.
ORAC--------He's in Vila's room.
DOCTOR----Thank you. Oh, Orac?
ORAC--------Yes?
DOCTOR----Are you here too?
ORAC--------Of course I am since he hasn't given me to you yet!
DOCTOR----Right. Thank you, Orac.

He deactivated it then went to find Vila's room. He saw himself in the lab and smiled at the memory then ducked low as he went past. Finally he saw Avon standing in the doorway watching Vila.

DOCTOR----Hello Avon.
AVON-------Doctor!
DOCTOR----Shhh. We don't want to wake up Vila now, do we?
AVON-------No. I've always thought he was at his best unconcious. But thought you were in your laboratory.
DOCTOR----I still am.
AVON-------I don't understand. When you brought us here, you had white hair and were older. Now you are as you were the times Leela was with you. Now I know you can change your appearance.
DOCTOR----So?
AVON-------So have you done it since we arrived?
DOCTOR----Er, not yet. Come with me and I'll show you. But be quiet.

Avon followed the Doctor until he stopped just by the lab. The Doctor indicated to Avon to look, smiled then walked a few feet in the opposite direction.

AVON-------Now I really am confused.
DOCTOR----He is me, yes?
AVON-------If you say so.
DOCTOR----He changes into me. Simple enough for you?
AVON-------No, but I'll take your word for it.
DOCTOR----I'm risking the Blinovitch limitation effect just by being here.
AVON-------The Blinovitch-
DOCTOR----Never mind all that. I shouldn't really be here, okay?
AVON-------Goodbye then.
DOCTOR----Oh no, Avon. You don't get rid of me that easily. I've gone to a lot of trouble tracking you down over the centuries.
AVON-------Why?
DOCTOR----I'll come to that later. Now I've finally found you, I fully intend to have my say.
AVON-------I won't stop you.
DOCTOR----No, but you'd better listen to me, Avon.
AVON-------Give me a good reason why I should.
DOCTOR----Look, Avon, I'm tired and I've had a long day. I'd prefer you to co-operate, but I can always force you to listen if you don't.
AVON-------Get on with it then. Only be quick about it. I have things to do.
DOCTOR----Like running off with Servalan?
AVON-------How did you know that?
DOCTOR----I'm a Time Lord!
AVON-------So you are (!)
DOCTOR----You'll regret it if you go, Avon.
AVON-------I'll regret it if I don't.
DOCTOR----You surely aren't stupid enough to believe what she says.
AVON-------Perhaps I am. But not stupid enough to give up the chance of all that power.
DOCTOR----And what about Leela?
AVON-------Is she here?
DOCTOR----No.
AVON-------Then she's not important.
DOCTOR----Isn't she, Avon? If you had a straight choice between Leela and Servalan, who would you choose?
AVON-------You know who it would be.
DOCTOR----Why don't you tell me?
AVON-------Leela of course.
DOCTOR----Of course. Obvious answer really. All right, smarty pants, try this one. Would you choose enormous wealth and power or Leela?
AVON-------I'd prefer all three.
DOCTOR----But you can only have one, Avon.
AVON-------Wealth and power.
DOCTOR----Why?
AVON-------Because no matter how much I want Leela, she doesn't want me. So I'll settle for second best.
DOCTOR----What if she did want you, hmm? What then?
AVON-------Leela of course. Why drag all this up now? It's all in the past.
DOCTOR----Is it?
AVON-------Is that all?
DOCTOR----No. One more hypothetical question.
AVON-------(sighs) If it will shut you up once and for all then go ahead.
DOCTOR----If you had the choice of enormous wealth and power with Servalan down there or living happily ever after with Leela and having lots of little Leela's and Avon's while stuck on a primitive planet with only her tribe for company, which would you choose?
AVON-------Children with Leela?
DOCTOR----You could have some with Servalan. Add that to the hypothesis.
AVON-------A primitive planet?
DOCTOR----Her home. People like herself. Only thanks to her travels with me, she's more wise than they are.
AVON-------It's a difficult one.
DOCTOR----I'm sure you could make a decision.
AVON-------It's not easy.
DOCTOR----Take your time.
AVON-------All my life I've dreamed of being rich beyond my wildest dreams and having the power behind me to use it. But Leela.... Oh, Leela. There was only Anna before her. I do not admit my feelings often, Doctor, but I love Leela more than I ever loved Anna. So, if that was the choice, it would be Leela anywhere in the universe every time. But I know that it is not to be.
DOCTOR----I've got news for you.
AVON-------Please don't torture me anymore, Doctor.
DOCTOR----Leela and Andred's marriage was annulled by the Time Lords. She's back with her people.
AVON-------How do you know?
DOCTOR----Because I took her there myself. She wants you Avon.
AVON-------Are you sure?
DOCTOR----She told me. She's waiting for you right now.
AVON-------What about you?
DOCTOR----What about me?
AVON-------You don't like me. Do you blame me for her marriage failing?
DOCTOR----No. In fact, Avon, I never thought Andred was right for her. He's wetter than a drenched cloth.
AVON-------Do you think I'm right for her?
DOCTOR----No. But she's my friend so naturally I want to see her happy. And if that means being with you, then so be it.
AVON-------I'll go and tell Servalan my decision.
DOCTOR----Good. While you're doing that, I'll write your goodbye note. I'll meet you in the Brigadier's office. Do you know where that is?
AVON-------I'll find it. But why there?
DOCTOR----That's where my Tardis is. Good luck and remember, avoid the me in the lab.
AVON-------(smiles) I will.


To be continued...

[RitaLittlewood]

Part 3

The next morning at UNIT HQ.

DOCTOR----Any sign of him?
VILA---------We can't find him anywhere!
DOCTOR----What about the prisoner?
BRIGADIER---Still safely locked up.
VILA---------It looks like she's sulking too. Do you think Avon said something to her?
DOCTOR----Perhaps.
BENTON----We found this note on Avon's bunk. It's addressed to you, Doctor.
VILA---------What does it say, Doc?
DOCTOR----It says, "Dear Doctor. Avon's gone off to live happily ever after with someone I don't know yet but will surely come across in the future. As I'm the only one who knows where, tell Vila I'll take him for a visit after I've regenerated. He'll be very surprised. Orac's gone with him. Can't let that sort of technology fall into the wrong hands now, can we? Take care of Vila. He'll not know for a while the lengths Avon was prepared to go to to ensure his safety. Put this note in the manky Rudyard kipling book of ours in the Tardis and leave it there. Bye bye. Yours, the Doctor. P.S. Vila, try to cut down on the drink, otherwise you'll have less time for the pretty girls. Avon".
VILA---------Do you think he's dead?
DOCTOR----Oh, I shouldn't think so. I'm sure I'll look after him.

-------------------------------

DOCTOR----Ah, here we are.
AVON-------What's that?
DOCTOR----The note we left for myself.
AVON-------Can I see? Thank you. Did Vila lay off the booze?
DOCTOR----What do you think?
AVON-------I didn't think he would.
DOCTOR----Or could?
AVON-------Naturally. How is he?
DOCTOR----Still enjoying himself with all those female soldiers.
AVON-------I bet. What does he do?
DOCTOR----Apart from boozing and womanising? He's head of security and the specialist in the locks and safes department. Although he did have trouble picking locks for use with old-fashioned keys. But he learnt. Ah, we've arrived.
AVON-------Leela?
DOCTOR----Erm, not yet.
AVON-------Then where are we?
DOCTOR----I thought you'd like to see what happened to you if you'd decided to go off with Servalan.
AVON-------Go ahead.
DOCTOR----Are you sure? It's not very pleasant.
AVON-------I have a strong stomach.
DOCTOR----Very well.

The Doctor turned on the scanner and zoomed in on the dead Avon. The live one turned away from the screen in shock.

AVON-------Switch it off!
DOCTOR----Okay.
AVON-------What is this place?
DOCTOR----Cygnus Alpha.
AVON-------Cygnus... How did I end up here like that?
DOCTOR----How do you think?
AVON-------(bitterly) Servalan.
DOCTOR----Glad I talked you out of that now?
AVON-------You'll never know how glad I am, Doctor. And how grateful.
DOCTOR----Just make sure you never hurt Leela or make her unhappy.
AVON-------Or you'll come after me?
DOCTOR----One of me will, yes.
AVON-------Then I'll try not to. I owe you too much already. I will do my best to make Leela happy.
DOCTOR----You'd better. Shall we go to her?
AVON-------Why not, since you've kept us both waiting long enough.
DOCTOR----Just don't mention this, eh?
AVON-------I won't.
DOCTOR----By the way, you still haven't told me what Servalan said.
AVON-------It's unrepeatable.
DOCTOR----That bad?
AVON-------She told me the Rani was waiting for her.
DOCTOR----Don't worry about her. I soon sorted her out and she was glad to finally get away from Servalan.
AVON-------Who isn't?

Adric was the first to hear the familiar sound of the Tardis materialising and immediately rushed to tell Leela.

ADRIC-------The Doctor's back!
LEELA-------Are you sure?
ADRIC-------Yes. Come on.
LEELA-------Wait. Calib, will you look after Vila for me?
CALIB-------Of course I will.
LEELA-------Thank you.
ADRIC-------(grabs her hand) Come on!

--------------------------------

DOCTOR----Here she comes and alone too. Good.
AVON-------She has a boy with her.
DOCTOR----That's Adric.
AVON-------Adric?
DOCTOR----Jealous?
AVON-------Of course not.
DOCTOR----Of course not (!)
AVON-------Well, all right then. Yes, I am.
DOCTOR----There's no need to be. He travels with me now. I left him here to look after Leela while I found you. She looks well, don't you think?
AVON-------She looks as lovely as ever.
DOCTOR----Why don't you go and tart yourself up a bit?
AVON-------Sorry?
DOCTOR----Make yourself presentable.
AVON-------Yes of course.
DOCTOR----You know where the bathroom is. I'll go and talk to Leela. Just come out when you're ready.
AVON-------Thank you, Doctor.

No sooner had the Doctor stepped through the doors, than Leela threw her arms around him.

LEELA-------I thought you would not return.
DOCTOR----Well I'm here now and would like to be able to breathe, if it's all the same to you.
LEELA-------Sorry. Why were you so long?
DOCTOR----He wasn't easy to find.
LEELA-------He's here?
DOCTOR----Yes. Leela?
LEELA-------Yes?
DOCTOR----I haven't told him about Vila. I thought it best if it came from you.
LEELA-------Thank you, Doctor. Avon?
DOCTOR----What happened to pruneface?
LEELA-------Oh, Avon!

They threw their arms around each other and hugged tightly. Leela was crying with happiness and even Avon had tears in his eyes.

AVON-------I never thought I'd see you again.
LEELA-------I should never have left you.
AVON-------You chose your husband.
LEELA-------I meant, I should never have left you the first time.
AVON-------Oh, Leela. I do love you.
LEELA-------And I love you, pruneface.

They snogged so much the Doctor thought they were trying to suck each other into their mouths. He coughed politely and they broke apart.

DOCTOR----Leela, wasn't there something you wanted to tell Avon?
LEELA-------Oh, yes. Thank you, Doctor. Avon-
AVON-------Wait. I have something to ask you first.
LEELA-------Yes, Avon?
AVON-------I never want to be without you ever again. Leela, will you marry me?
LEELA-------Oh, Avon!
DOCTOR----Leela.
LEELA-------Sorry, Doctor. Avon, I would like to very much-
AVON-------That's wonderful!
LEELA-------But there's something you must know. Doctor, would you go and get Vila?
AVON-------Vila?
DOCTOR----Of course I will.
AVON-------Vila's here?
LEELA-------Not exactly. Vila, come here please.
VILA---------Yes mummy.
AVON-------That's Vila?
LEELA-------Yes.
AVON-------Is he your son?
LEELA-------He is our son, Avon. Yours and mine. The reason Andred had me expelled but it did not matter. I was all alone and longed for you but even that did not matter. I had your child to look after and that mattered.
AVON-------My son?
LEELA-------Yes.
AVON-------How old is he?
LEELA-------He is six years old. Do you still want to marry me, Avon?
AVON-------Six years? It has been a long time since we were last together. Oh, Leela. All those wasted years. Of course I still want to marry you. I'll never let you go again.

So, Avon and Leela were married. The Doctor and Adric stayed for the ceremony. The Doctor still had his doubts, but was pleased to see Leela so happy. After they said their farewells, the Doctor returned to Earth to see Vila.

VILA---------Hello Doc! This is a surprise. How are you?
DOCTOR----Very well. How long's it been, Vila?
VILA---------Ooh, must be all of six months.
DOCTOR----Really?
VILA---------I'm kidding. It's been twenty years.
DOCTOR----Twenty years?!
VILA---------Yep. I'm the only one left I know. The Brig, Benton, all the others, all gone.
DOCTOR----You haven't changed a bit.
VILA---------Just a little more weight and a little less hair.
DOCTOR----And glasses.
VILA---------Well, I have to be able to see what I'm breaking into or stealing. So, are you going to tell me what all that was about twenty years ago?
DOCTOR----All what was about?
VILA---------Avon's disappearance.
DOCTOR----Oh, that. He got married.
VILA---------Married?! Who'd be mad enough to saddle themselves with him?
DOCTOR----Leela.
VILA---------Leela? Why didn't you just say that in the note?
DOCTOR----Because that incarnation of myself hadn't met her yet. I wanted to keep it a surprise.
VILA---------How did they get together again then?
DOCTOR----I'll tell you on the way.
VILA---------On the way to where?
DOCTOR----You want to visit them, don't you?
VILA---------Of course. I've been waiting so long I thought you'd forgotton about me.
DOCTOR----How could I ever do that, Vila? Come on.
VILA---------Right. This should be fun.
DOCTOR----I think we'll arrive twenty years after their wedding.
VILA---------How about thirty?
DOCTOR----Why thirty?
VILA---------Forty then. I'm not fussed.
DOCTOR----Why so far?
VILA---------I want to see Avon old and useless of course!
DOCTOR----Thirty then. Tell me, what happened to Servalan?
VILA---------Oh, I forgot you never knew about that. She's in Holloway doing life with no chance of parole.
DOCTOR----For what?
VILA---------All the things we could think of. Come on, I want to see Leela and Avon.
DOCTOR----I'm coming!

They arrived thirty years after the Doctor left and found Avon and Leela still together.

VILA---------Bloody hell!
AVON-------Surprised, Vila?
VILA---------You can say that again!
DOCTOR----How are you both?
LEELA-------Very happy.
AVON-------(proud) We even have grandchildren now.
VILA---------Your bloodline is carrying on? I need a drink.
AVON-------Don't you always?
DOCTOR----No regrets?
LEELA-------No.
AVON-------Not one. Thank you for everything, Doctor.
DOCTOR----My pleasure. Where's Orac?
AVON-------Educating my grandchildren and everyone else on the planet.
DOCTOR----Not too much I hope.
AVON-------No. I love Leela just the way she is. Our family are half-savage but have more intelligence as well as good hunting skills.
DOCTOR----Good.
VILA---------Time to go now eh, Doc?
DOCTOR----Are you all right, Vila?
VILA---------I don't feel well.
AVON-------Nothing changes there then.
VILA---------I miss you too, Avon (!)
AVON-------Thought you did. Off you go then.
VILA---------Bye Leela.
LEELA-------Goodbye Vila.
VILA---------It was nice seeing you again. Although why you chose him over me, I'll never know.
AVON-------That's right. You'll never know.
DOCTOR----Goodbye, I'm glad it all worked out. Look after each other.
LEELA-------We will.
AVON-------We have.

The Doctor returned Vila to Earth then continued his journey with Adric to wherever.


The End

Patsy