J. Stratton's
Reviews
Editor's note: Justine has been brought to this site to offer her own unique insight into the stories presented throughout Season Two. Unique for the sole reason that she is a complete outsider when it comes to Doctor Who. A woman with no preconcieved notions of what Doctor Who should be, or what kind of background it has.
Episode One - First Contacts written by Andie J. P. Frankham
Art reflects life – whether this piece was drafted prior to September 11 or not, or whether this figures on an intuitive rather than on a conscious level, elements of universal fanaticism are captured in the states of conflict and opposition set forth in the start of this mood setting chapter.
Although it tended to bog down with technical details in the very beginning, I found this first installment picked up soon thereafter and set a fast pace for the story in general (even at 4:00 in the morning). Strong character development helped draw me into the action.
Speaking forever as an outsider to the Doctor Who phenomenon, I found myself finally “getting” The Doctor… From my perspective he is the voice of reason and through his own eccentricities appears not to take so seriously the nature of the events in which he becomes involved. He simply takes care of business.
I enjoyed how Alpha Centauri was portrayed – fascinating – a place I would want to visit. For a world virtually void of humans it is inviting indeed (or maybe that is part of its charm). In this portion of the story I found it easy to genuinely like the three central characters. I came to care about them and look forward to their involvement in Episode Two… That review to follow shortly – yeah, really. Oh, also loved the trick with the pick of “Nick” thingie.
Episode Two - Alpha Mondas written by Andie J. P. Frankham
In writing, there is nothing more satisfying than a good strong lead-in and this one was a grabber… a quick turn of events portending plot twists and turns. There is much change packed into the first few paragraphs alone. Diverging scenes rapidly leave you wanting more detail but action and dialogue are beautifully interwoven to easily draw you from one set of events to another. These “mood swings” in tone lend well to holding the reader's attention.
Adept use of quantum theory brings thought-provoking interest to the story – to both entertain and subtly inform the reader is an art in itself. No need to educate the author on the proper use of space-time coordinates, as he seems to have a highly developed intuitive grasp. No complaints there.
Action that begins developing toward the middle of the piece forces the Doctor to face new challenge and one gets to see him forge ahead. Though too short a scene, it is easy to become thoroughly involved and to ride the waves as emotions are stretched from one end of the spectrum to the other. Lovely, albeit all too quickly over.
Although understandably necessary to the development of the story, one can become lost in the stuffy formality of the scenes involving the “military types.” The dialogue, though informative, is lacking in emotional depth to keep one focused on the action. It does serve one purpose well by making the reappearance of the Doctor all the more enjoyable.
Also enjoyable is the introduction of the more “friendly” of characters leveling the mood to a hypnotic flow. Especially towards the end of the piece, we take an easy leisurely moment to relax.
A good story makes you wonder and guess at what will happen next... an even better story makes you care. The Doctor, back in action at the end of the episode, is of great comfort and holds promise of things to come.
Episode Three - The Relic written by Greg Miller
Scene-setting at its best… Watching quietly from a corner, the reader is there in the room when Nick awakens. The author artfully brings us with him as Nick makes his way through the structure and ends up sitting in the kitchen with Falex, Nick and the Doctor as they eat breakfast.
Remarkable is the feeling one gets that Nick wrote his own part in this piece, so genuine is his character in action and dialogue, idiosyncrasies and all (anyone who knows the “bloke” will recognize this.) Of course, where the other characters are involved, one sees uniquely and distinctly different personalities. Dialogue supports this conclusion as well as the varied manner of responses to any one given situation.
Listening to the Doctor’s answers rounds out the information that we need to move the story ahead. In fact the episode is packed with necessary detail. There is a uniform flow in staying with the central characters here. It is their adventure after all and the desire to keep abreast of their activities is fulfilled.
There is a pleasing and admirable use of phrasing that quickly projects mood, action and surroundings at the same time. It is interesting that just two words alone, placed side by side can convey such depth of imagery.
A real treat is being able to hear the thoughts that lie behind the characters’ spoken words (In this case, Nick’s). We get to listen to verbal exchanges and are allowed access to his private thoughts at the same time. The author has also managed to capture Nick’s sense of humor, as well.
A lengthy and highly interesting prison scene comes upon us quickly. On Nick’s fact-gathering mission we witness some unexpected exchanges and some surprises to boot. It is a fascinating story development. However, by circumstance of one small exchange between two of the characters, one can be left with an inexplicable uneasiness. Later, when the action returns deftly to these characters, the first impression is relief, but followed by a plunge into new and powerful foreboding.
Just a note: Regarding the composition of this Episode, there was one element of particular interest… Towards the end of the piece there appeared a structural “duplication” in two paragraphs, one immediately following the other. The first reading was somewhat off-putting. But upon closer analysis this was seen for what it was, a subtle and clever contrast made between the roles of two of the central characters.
Episode Four - The Sword of Honour written by Greg Miller
Although we are left with knowledge of impending doom, the author makes the transition easily back to the central characters where we continue to share their private thoughts that expand the depth of their personalities bringing us a newer and even more comfortable level of understanding.
There is an interesting use of action not seemingly essential to the plot development that helps the reader handle the tension of an impending battle, and further examines the differences between the two would-be warring factions. Laudable use of finely drawn “pictures in words” clearly set the scene’s action.
Relying solely on logic and objectivity, the prison guards allow the single-minded Martians their escape. Cowed by their presence, the “alpha male” wins out! If characters are meant to elicit emotions from readers, then these guards make one want to slap them silly for not sensing that something may be wrong, even just one moment sooner! Not a clue, not even a hunch! The reader is set-up to fully understand that the good-guys are suffering a distinct disadvantage.
The reappearance of the Doctor compensates us for having to endure the one-dimensional, no-nonsense Martian warriors. And by contrast here we have the “thinking man’s” hero. He characteristically outwits the aggressors, allowing himself time to correct the situation or at least determine an intelligent plan of action. We discover new talents with every challenge he faces. And we get to follow him through more than one conflict.
A well-written, enticing “clubbing” scene lures the reader into “Nicks night out.”
Excerpt:
“The dark areas were enhanced by the vibrant colours that flowed through the Alpha Centaurian skin in tune with their emotions, much as their tentacles writhed
rhythmically in tune with the music.”
Makes the reader want to get in there and get “jiggy” with them. (If they still do that sort of thing.)
Nick to the rescue! Now this was fun… a little adrenaline pumping action to pick up the pace… But then the rug is pulled out from under us! And it seems that everything is once again A-OK. Nick and the reader are both confused. Our chain has been jerked again! Were it not for the character, Vlaash, it would be of great difficulty to trust these Martians… but still, the reader may well think it is a wise thing not to do so.
Some actions seemed to be neglected, questions left unanswered in this episode… just a few minor points which could be disconcerting at times. But a beautifully detailed description of the ceremonial return of the Sword of Honour was, to say the least, vivid, most enjoyable and made up entirely for any small omissions.
Episode Five - Shadows written by Niall Turner
Reading this episode was no task and those who do so are in for a treat. We have the distinct pleasure of getting to know the Draconians as fully funtional three dimensional characters. At first we get to meet the alien Emperor on an intimate level, discovering intelligence and a depth of feeling heretofore unexplored. It is what the character represents that makes a difference. Engaging literary intensity rounds out the first encounter with startling results.
Poetic prose in an early encounter with the Doctor and in a later escape scene relaxes the reader from the usual no-nonsense action one comes to expect from the militaristic factions. Such fluidity is most noteworthy as is the wry sense of humor.
The author’s literary leanings abound in this installment. Meticulously pieced together, the scenes make a smooth transition one from another. In the beginning, action changes so rapidly it is akin to watching a split screen TV production. Familiar characters pop in and out of the work abruptly while new characters appear momentarily then vanish as well. However, as one scene runs in your memory, another runs smoothly along side it. The colorful imagery holds you to them.
Imaginatively written scenes between Nick and Falex (and the Doctor, as well) offer up truly menacing villains and incorporate lots of surprises blasting the senses with merely a few well-chosen words. The reader sees, hears, smells and tastes the action as it encompasses most all the feelings one can encounter.
Although provided with drama that enables the reader to tell the good guys from the bad guys, loyalties do seem to change rather rapidly. We rely as much on gut hunches as we do story developments to assess whether to trust one Draconian over another.
With no fear of multi-syllabic wording the author has produced an intelligently written piece that vastly moves the story ahead. An imaginative and riveting fight scene towards the end of the episode leads to the cliff hanger… What next? Oh! What next?!
And just a side note: A woman in power, with a fool for a husband – Hummmm – interesting concept.
Jaahkathna... You go, girl!
Episode Six - Black Sun Rising written by Niall Turner
If an author exercises his fluidity of thought, then this episode is a genuine romp in the park… Words flow effortlessly forming images that engage the reader’s mind. It is an easy read indeed. With a minimal of text the reader vividly surveys terrain laid waste by enemy destruction and at the same time captures the character’s personally felt sense of defeat. We also learn quickly the strength and weaknesses of those involved in the action.
A yummy use of humor becomes trademark with this writer in edging off tension. And phrasing, concisely and appropriately expressed, can stop and stun a reader by sheer imagery alone. “…eyes thin slits of madness.” or “…in a nightmare embrace.” Hypnotic, they are.
Psychology and philosophy woven in and out of the action is a real treat. We see the militant mentality shown for what it is… protecting the people from its own secrets. And the essential elements of the terrorist mind examined and exposed as motivated by the thrust of fanaticism. Interesting it is that the similarities awaken the reader more than the differences. Peace is not uppermost in mind for either side. And Jaahkathna makes a good Leader, but loses some of her “humanity” along the way.
A well paced piecing of the story parts easily moves one scene to the next maintaining the tone and staying true to the plotline.
Now, for the requisite nitpicking… I appreciate “Nick’s” colorful colloquialisms, however some regional expressions mystify this reader. Example: “Someone was going to be having it large for this one.” From one unfamiliar with the lingo, the meaning is barely discernable even when taken in context.
On a higher note, despite the seemingly desperate situation surrounding a couple of main characters… there was still time for the addition of a tantalizing tidbit in the form of a new character bringing on an evil wicked grin and a double “yum!” Ah, the possibilities! (For Nick??).
Heart pounding action rounds out this installment as the fever pitch takes off in all directions. In the end there is no cliff-hanger, though… we are left with a set-up that has sent everyone to their respective corners waiting for (and looking forward to) the next round.
Episode Seven - The Restaurant of Death written by James Beamish
This episode was a personal pleasure to read. The writer gives the reader picturesque descriptions of larger-than-life characters letting “Dorothy know she’s not in Kansas anymore…”
Off on a sojourn to an out of the way restaurant we are skillfully guided into a piquant atmosphere far removed from war and galactic domination. Clever banter between the Doctor and Nick is a welcome brief relief from the life-or-death dialogue necessary to the plot so far. The story unfolds gracefully (and humorously) rather than in-your-face action.
The smooth transitions relax and reward the reader along with easy going scenes that quickly set the mood allowing us to catch our breath while catching up on the whys and wherefores of unanswered questions.
Being once again in Nick’s mind was another welcomed delight. Easy to read phrasing allowed this reader the luxury of putting down the pen momentarily and just having fun inside his thoughts. An interesting turn involving a girl and Ossoban sent me for a small bowl of popcorn and a can of coke. I was drawn into the scene and on more than one occasion laughed out loud. Nick’s impulsiveness and knee-jerk reactions are hysterical as we watch an insanely funny situation evolve with a wealth of unusual characters.
There are no wasted words here… and fast action accounts move us from paragraph to paragraph never missing a beat. Very imaginative use of the unexpected, genuinely keeps our interest.
By the way, nice casting… maybe we should check the cast list before reading... Arnold??? Ha, I loved it!!
Episode Eight - Severed Dreams written by Simon Catlow
The stuff that dreams are made of? This episode would give that impression. A highly ambitious piece, this was the busiest installment to date… So much happening!
At first we are bounced from one scene to another with head-spinning speed. But nicely executed dialogue and descriptions lead the reader through surprising plot alterations and some captivatingly complex characteristics of the characters. Disconcerting, though, are the times when the Doctor experiences frustration as people appear and disappear on him. We experience the same frustration.
Dreamlike and surreal, yes… as objects mutate and events dissolve and reassemble into others and a psychological drama unfolds unlike any encountered thus far in the series. Ah, the never-ending search to find one’s self … especially when there are so many of one to find.
The Doctor’s mental excursions seemed real enough but whether happening in his reality [whichever that might be] or imagined as on another plane, they rang true in the reading.
Making the Doctor a victim was a formidable task for his enemies in trying to change his perceptions… but an impossible one?? The reader must determine this for his or herself.
When it seemed that there might be no resolution to the Doctor’s dilemma…(was he free or was he “theirs”?), there came a lovely surprise ending to be left for all to discover and to draw their own conclusions. A cliffhanger, perhaps? Maybe yes, maybe no.
Episode Nine - The Extinction Device written by Sally Wiget & Adam Perks
The ever-refreshing Doctor never fails to fascinate and live up to his reputation as an unconventional genius in this episode. One has to love the way he thinks and pulls us into his own little world where one quickly loses footing by the surprises in store… all quite natural to him it seems, not so for the characters who try to follow his line of thought though.
Our imagination is stimulated by the use of similes drawing clever comparisons. Distinctive to this particular piece is not only the use of descriptive visual effects, but sound effects as well. They abound in the details that challenge the readers mind. Literary license allows for the use of excerpts from Federation logs and journal entries… as well as the narrative element.
Dry tired technological text is replaced with animated descriptives as the Doctor and Nick take off on a quickly organized mission to save existence as they know it (or at least have recently experienced it.)
Although some portions arouse memories of past happenings that touch upon elements of a continuing plot, a lot of new information is packed into this stand-alone installment. The reader gets to know characters of interesting dissimilarities that are anything but ordinary run-of-the-mill aliens… primarily the species Omnisci whose characteristics and capabilities are explored in depth.
Carrying classic sci-fi elements to the next level this episode makes good use of virtual reality and dream-like speed in changing action that pulls the central characters from one fire into another with the Doctor busy orchestrating and performing the ultimate rescues.
As a collaborative effort, it seems nothing was impossible in this story. And quoting from one line of text… “The Doctor was suitably impressed.” The reader will be, as well.
Episode Ten - Into the Vortex written by Sally Wiget & Adam Perks
The dramatic plot progression of this episode and the visceral descriptions of Nick’s transformation help to redeem the rather choppy, difficult to read opening paragraphs. However, a welcomed return to dialogue was helpful in restoring the story’s flow smoothing out the rough edges.
Moving towards the middle of the piece, words do well to paint an agreeable landscape for the Doctor, Nick and the Omnisci; the changing locales beautifully written to encourage the reader on as the adventure continues.
Exploring the powers of the Omnisci as they evolve with the changing conditions met in this installment and discovering the imaginative new powers of the Doctor pleasurably excite and arouse interest in seeing this episode through to the finish.
Adding to this stimulation are offerings (set in italics) of events taking place ‘elsewhere” involving spiders and cylinders, etc. These exceedingly pleasing descriptions mesmerize as they present a grand view of this new world that teases us to tax our own visions as to what is yet to come.
Towards the end we find a fully reestablished and admirably executed flow of images and brilliantly utilized imagination.
OK, now be prepared!
“_____” attempted to create a perfect reality
that was foiled by the “________”, but still saved the “______”, yet left the “________” free and poor “_____” doomed.
Read it! There’ll be a quiz on Tuesday.
Episode Eleven - Reflections written by Mark Turner
Sans the Doctor, we pick up with a thread begun a few episodes back that once again reunites us with Nick and Falex. A nice momentum builds as these two interact in a genuinely likeable fashion with Nick relating the tale of his escapade with the Martian Vlaash while Falex questions Nick and receives answers that help to fill in some gaps in the plotline.
The delightfully charming recap of what has gone on before serves to refresh the reader's memory in the gentle, yet captivating manner of a bedtime story.
It seems that whenever Nick comes into the action we are right there with him so when the tale turns into a real time adventure we are ready for him to act and react quickly to the changing circumstances. This time the mission is to accompany Vlaash who sets about to save the honor of the Martians and reinstate them as allies to the Federation against the Cybermen.
This installment incorporates a strange trip on a yacht heading for Delta Prime that includes a cast of characters the likes of those found in a Christie mystery or Poe poetry with lots of intrigue, attacks, murder, mistrust and looking over the shoulder at every turn!
As this is the beginning of a two part episode, we are left with the little matter of how a vessel can sink into a moon… you can if it’s made of mud and ice.
Next up… Is escape possible?
Episode Twelve - The Planet of Mud written by Mark Turner
Having crashed into a moon of icy mud, and left at the mercy of the elements, the travelers deal with impending doom as personal priorities surface quickly for each of the characters.
Secrets abound and set the story line spiraling and looping, changing in a breath as the trapped passengers face their greatest fears. So our reluctant hero once again swings into action. Hang the murder investigation, the suspected traitors and assorted hysterical and suicidal types! Burial alive is the imminent concern for Nick as well as anyone else who wishes to save his self from being frozen and suffocated in a small metal vessel.
Regardless of their agendas one might want to think that survival would be uppermost in the minds of more than a handful of these travelers… Yet it is only a few resourceful fellows that come up with any ideas on how to stave off disaster, and who engage persistence in obtaining that objective.
So, which ones survive? And what stops the others from participating in their own rescue? There is a strange set of choices being made here, rather than just happenstance ruling the outcome. It is a genuine character study of contrasts under conditions of dire circumstance set forth in a unique presentation.
This installment is a good example of how pressure of this sort of intensity brings out the best and the worst of those involved
Episode Thirteen - Echoes of the Past written by Andie J. P. Frankham
“Meanwhile, back at the ranch…” Errr, the war room that is. Nick and the Doctor hook up once again. The Doctor on his own as usual, digging for facts that might help win Federation backing in the impending battle against the Cyberman, while Nick attempts to convince him that the “ice warrior” Martians are really a good lot. They struggle to understand each other’s opinions that differ as to who is really on their side. The Doctor acts testy at first insistent that the true colors of the “players” must be determined before trust is given over to anyone.
Although it has been some time since this portion of the story was followed, it easily picks up where it left off thus rekindling our interest in the situation as the action comes successfully flashing back to mind.
The Doctor has dug deep to ferret out the would-be conspirators, traitors and spies (oh, My!) as he tries to establish the advantage before advantage is taken of them. He calls into use all his resources to put forth a good and workable plan – No details are overlooked and all the holes are filled in this episode.
Emphasizing character development again, we get to see a side of Alf that Nick failed to mention rounding out her personality as a likable human in her own right. Independent, competent and self-directed she gives us reason to believe she may have been slightly over qualified for her old job as a prison guard.
His natural, almost relentless persistence pays off for the Doctor (and the reader) as the pace picks up in the end taking on a James Bond-like chase and escape scene complete with bittersweet finale. Now, the search for allies continues as we await part two of this storyline.
Episode Fourteen - The Revelation written by Andie J. P. Frankham
A taut presentation of dialogue provides an excellent succession of ideas and informative exchanges that carry the reader into anticipation of the story’s next moves. Personal characterizations remain intact helping to maintain our interest as well worked and visually striking descriptives entrance us with the devastating desolation of Peladon.
Impressive originality comes through by the introduction of plot twists that carry the story into uncharted territory. We react along with the players in their confrontations and discover new depth to the personalities involved emphasizing their scope and strengths.
The Doctor’s part in this adventure is defined early on as he sets the ball rolling. There is no mistake that the plan, the direction comes from his decisions and no other. We are also given broader understanding of the capabilities of the Doctor as a Time Lord.
Interchange between Moresh and the Doctor in uncovering Moresh’s true identity provides a quick and easy read leaving us well informed and leads to a befitting ending to at least one threat to the Doctor’s overall objective.
This episode offers some surprises and advances the story at a fine pace leaping ahead but carefully directing the action towards specific goals. The ending provides even more startling twists that help us to piece together the puzzle-like plot. And a good ending properly leaves us wondering, rather than knowing what will happen next.
Episode Fifteen - Power Play written by Simon Catlow
With no uncertainty, this episode weeds out the players from the spectators for the upcoming battle. We are introduced to a dozen or so new characters of various species that emphasize the diversity involved in the lot of them coming together in agreement for a common cause.
It is a mood-setting installment allowing the reader access to the thoughts behind the actions of each new character. It is time to learn who should be given trust and who shall remain suspect. This lends to the setting of attitude as well as mood. The texture of the plot relies on the strongest presence taking charge, yet does not progress wholly without feeling. The episode also provides a much need bridge from debate to decision and from decision into action.
We get to catch up with our “regulars” in this story. We see the weary Doctor taking on the lonely intellectual pursuit that hopefully leads to the plan that will save the day. And we learn that Falex is safe but sadly, that Nick is in regrettable distress with an affliction that requires special accommodations be made for him in order that he may remain even a small part of the action.
A shot in the arm for the series ushers in a mysterious “hero” acquainting us with a strong (and naturally) silent type who appears from out of nowhere to aid an underdog in an altercation. His presentation is short-lived and we learn little about him at first, still he reappears to peak our curiosity at the end ensuring that our interest carry over to the next episode.
Episode Sixteen - Survival of the Fittest written by Simon Catlow
In this episode we get a clear idea of who’ll be the “shirts” and who’ll be the “skins” in the upcoming war. The story development neatly follows through the identification process once again. It informs the reader as to who is hiding something and whose lives depend on discovering that fact for their own survival.
This installment emphasizes Nick’s uneasy situation on all counts… from his awkward meeting with Falex to his lack of cooperation in his own recovery. Highly readable dialogue though, takes the edge off the situation as genuine warmth between the two reestablishes the attachment that they have for each other. It also stresses the conspicuous absence of the Doctor from what was once their threesome.
Clever twists reveal complex conflicts not only between opposing forces, but within the alliances as well. And a creative weaving of details gives new meaning to the term “mind games” as the Qux take their battle into the mental plane where they effectively use the arena to control the actions of others to their advantage.
An incident involving an explosion heightens tensions all around calling for increased security against unseen and unsuspected forces. Still, this chapter continues to set-up the story rather than resolve it. So we are required to wait for the ultimate confrontation. War.
Aside: In keeping with a personal love for a well-turned phrase, I acknowledge the reference to a line following “a thunderous noise of approval” The author writes: “It growled as it pulsed through the ship.” As memorable prose goes, that little snippet is filed under the heading: Wished I’d Written That.
Episode Seventeen - War Stories: Pride written by Niall Turner & Greg Miller
Alf’s back. A nice refresher course in the form of her ruminations bring us up to speed as we begin to realize she figures prominently in this episode. And we no longer ponder the state of Vorkuuthh as he takes time out to heal. His reflections are a sweet philosophical bonus presenting his thoughts in a relaxed manner relaxing us into a dreamlike rhythm along with him.
When the story turns to action, a lively infusion of urgency underlies the pithy dialogue. And encounters abound as Alf moves to involve herself in her own fate by choosing to participate in the inevitable war at the behest of Vorkuuthh. But her position is clearly challenged by an anal retentive better known as Rukaar who begrudgingly serves as head of her welcoming committee as she joins the alliance. The reader recognizes Alf’s value to their cause, but Rukaar’s rigid formal training does not see the promise in her presence. Pitting the two of them against each other beautifully stresses the quirky qualities of each of the characters. The well-written almost confrontational meeting between the two allows Alf to let some of the straw out of this stuffed shirt whom she knows she must tolerate if for no other reason than to gratify Vorkuuthh.
A pleasing use of carefully chosen words throughout the private meeting of Vorkuuthh and Alf easily carries us into the mood of the piece leaving us well informed in an entertaining manner, a fine example of social intercourse.
Unexpected events occur during Vorkuuthh’s meeting with his son Voraann and the group of Peace Timers… a twist that leaves much concern over the possible outcome of the expected war. Add to this a full blown hand-to-hand confrontation between Alf and her newest irritant Rukaar, a scene written with enticing imagery that leads up to a nice little teaser at the end.
Episode Eighteen - War Stories: Fall written by Niall Turner & Greg Miller
A nicely tailored episode, we first encounter Alf awakening from a vivid dream after her ship crashes on the Settii Satellite. The senses are aroused as the dream melts into the stark reality of an alien atmosphere. Her position is well worked in detail to emphasize the gravity of Rukaar’s and her situation.
When the scene switches to Voraann, Vorkuuthh and party, the pace changes to a fast read as the picture fills in, words carrying the reader energetically from one image to another. One can only assume that the author must love words in order to use them this efficiently, he seeds them well as they grow from his rich imagination. We are both informed and enthralled.
The overall theme of this installment is one of survival and heart pounding peril in the escape from danger at all costs. Close calls, unfamiliar terrain, windstorms, threats of ritual sacrifice in deep caverns, captures and rescues alike keep up the momentum that builds as both groups of survivors merge in their common goal.
In the spirit of good adventure writing, the hazards mount one after the other appearing in full force then vanquished and replaced by yet other threats. Ultimately, working as a team, they beat the odds. But it is not so much the finish, but the process that stays with the reader when this episode ends. All in all, quite remarkable.
Episode Twenty - Road to Dead written by Simon Catlow
An interesting and unusual treatment here is seeing battle from so many perspectives… each group of players involved in their individual conflicts yet fighting for a single cause emphasizing the multi-layered reality of war.
A smooth and easy narrative presents the reader with an engaging story centered around the theme: man against machine – or perhaps in this case: lifeforms against machines. It seems the Federation fleets are lain waste in the aftermath of the great battle and we follow the drama unfolding under distinctly different circumstances as each group of the alliance assesses their damage and examines their options… where there are any.
The Federation Fleet is not having a good day as a result of the GodEngine, of which little is known. How to defeat this ominous device is the supreme consideration. But each ally must direct its attention first to its remaining capabilities. No two situations are the same as each of the members has suffered greatly from the attack.
It is a dire picture painted for most but some persistence pays off for others as repairs are affected and glimmers of hope return. Still, the concept of martyrdom in war is illustrated by those who are willing to offer their own lives for the ultimate goal, or in their minds, the greater good… the defeat of the Cybermen and their weapon.
Sadly, it is a lack of familiarity and intimate understanding of many of the characters that keeps the reader a cool distance from feeling empathy towards these would-be Federation heroes. We know The Doctor and Nick and Falex on a personal level… it makes us care what happens to them. Would that it was also true for those who share their objective. Then again, strangely enough, the coldness, the inhumanity of war is brought home by this very fact.
Episode Twenty One - The Final Solution written by Simon Catlow
The story continues with diverse experiences separating the parts of the whole in the effort to defeat the Cybermen. We see a distinct disadvantage here as everyone is fighting the same battle but using individual tactics. There appears to be no central command, no allied commander for this all-important encounter. Many of those involved seem able to do little more than watch as the others try out their own strategies.
On the one hand this is somewhat understandable as the overall conflict touches each group in a different way, putting some out of communication and others totally out of commission. We have the Martians on their homeland joining up with Vorkuuthh and Alf. The Draconians moving to destroy the Cyber Control Complex with the Doctors help. As well as Wallarzlee with the Chosen Ones on a kamikaze mission. All disjointed action that must frustrate and signal futility as there is no unification as a whole.
Still, imaginative telling of these individual tales and the elaborate details of battle give rise to keeping the reader involved. In one moment all is lost and in the next there is the glimmering of hope. And one cannot say there are no elements that touch upon the stranger aspects of war universal. We have self-sacrifice and the path to glory… the eleventh hour decisions based upon moment-to-moment critical developments… the use of every possible means to achieve the desired ends… and ultimately, the brilliant efforts of the Doctor… and the sadness of loss.
Aside: Interestingly this episode includes factors that are common to significant current world events brought home by the eerie aspects that even though the battle may or may not have been won the threat looms that “…they’ll rise again from the tombs on unseen worlds…”
Episode Twenty Two - The Pirate of Time written by Niall Turner
Forgive me for gushing, but I have suffered through many books that could not touch the exquisite talent of this author. I am lifted by the almost hypnotic tone of the text, carried gently like a precious infant into the dream-like state he creates.
This is a hugely imaginative episode. For those seeking adventure, it is 50,000 watt entertainment. There is fascination in the use of quantum physics as it relates to the story line’s Mobius/Chronos phenomenon. We leave one reality for a taste of an alternate reality that seemingly works under a different set of assumptions; a reality where things pop in and out of existence like pulses of perception blinking on and off. There is a genuine grasp of theory here. So much so that it brings about a greater understanding for those of us who remain solidly rooted in this reality.
We see Nick and Falex hook up with Bartholomew and enter one of the stranger planes of existence. There is a light humor spread throughout as the details come alive. It is a sideshow atmosphere we encounter both here and when we catch up with Alf who meets up with N’hestereeza who magically morphs into Alf’s mind. The idea that nothing is as it appears to be is presented in an effectively captivating manner.
There are enlightening scenes as well as the bizarre encounters. Falex runs off and is captured by pirates as he experiences the similarities between fear and excitement. And Vorkuuthh travels into the void to find our lost heroes. Then everything seems to warp out of existence…
Are these really the places lunatics go “when the lights are on, but nobody’s home”? Is one reality as much an illusion as any other? So much to be resolved… definitely a fitting preamble for the end to the Second Season.
Episode Twenty Three - Future Signs written by Niall Turner
“It’s a wrap”, as they say… and with some very pleasant surprises.
Most enjoyable was our reunion with Nick in his dream-like reality where thoughts materialize instantaneously; limitations are broken down and disabilities become abilities. Nick’s nightmare involves a theme: Choices… one that is carried throughout this episode. And examines the nature of illusions which compose camouflage universes it seems. It makes this reader wonder how closely related this may be to our own reality.
Nick also meets up with N’hestereeza and, at long last, reunites with Alf. Strangeness remains key in this final installment as well. Whereas before we experienced a reign of terror, here we experience a rain of frogs!
Vorhuuthh makes a dramatic entrance, a valiant rescue attempt and then yet another as BlackStar the pirate comes back on the attack. But who really foiled the pirates? The “lunatic cherub and an elderly dandy in crushed green velvet and cravat.” That would be my guess!
We meet up with others as well… EnalcKarnip. And Nick and Alf are off for the ceremony of honor where they are acknowledged for their acts of heroism. It is a tremendous reception, this ceremony that Jaahkathna has overseen from the beginning. And although Nick is his naturally awkward self at first, his final gesture is one of breaking his sword… perhaps suggesting that war does not bring peace, only peace brings peace. Jaahkathna, Vorhuuthh, and Tkoorsh follow suit. But all too soon, circumstances change and Alf has to say: “The war’s over and the battle hasn’t begun.”
In the background other interests are drawing a new agenda. And Kolataar becomes a page in a book! His important newly found secrets gone with him! And Falex is being led onto a different path… he has his choices to make as well.
Due for the happiest of surprises, we find that our very clever Doctor has foiled fate once again. But readers should savor this for themselves, as it is a wonderful turn of events!
Yes, the season is over, but more is to come, as interwoven between the lines of this season are characters whose true natures have only begun to emerge… the “constructs”… the “mind dwellers”, we seem only to have scraped their surface.
And we await more…
Aside: I look forward to the upcoming season as a series of pleasurable hours of pure escapism as I become a reader and a reader only. Kudos to all the authors on a job very well done!
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