06x12 - Closing Time

[bunniefuu]

EXT. CITY STREET, NIGHT

Streetlights flicker and a few people mill about the park across from Sanderson & Grainger department store.

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, NIGHT

A young clerk, KELLY, and her supervisor, SHONA, are serving the last customer of the night.

SHONA: Thank you. (gives customer his bag)

KELLY: I better cash up then? S'pose John-Joe can just wait for me? (doesn't move)

SHONA: No, I'll do it, you head off.

The lights in the store flicker.

KELLY: When's the council going to fix this? Last night my telly went off in the middle of Top Model.

SHONA: John-Joe's waiting. I'll do the changing rooms, too.

KELLY: Oh, thanks, Shona.

KELLY leaves and SHONA looks at the lights nervously.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, FRONT HALL, NIGHT

The hall light flickers as CRAIG and SOPHIE come down the stairs. SOPHIE has a coat on.

SOPHIE: There's a list on the fridge.

CRAIG: I saw it.

SOPHIE: And I've labelled the food And sort of numbered it.

CRAIG: Sophie, you don't need to number food.

SOPHIE: It's just a suggestion. Also, my mum might phone.

CRAIG: Might?

SOPHIE: And your Mum. And my Dad. And you know, just some people.

CRAIG: I can cope on my own! Now, please, go and have a rest. You need it. I love you.

SOPHIE: I love you, too. (hugs him) And thank you for this. And I do know you can cope on your own. And I may have drawn some arrows in the fridge.

CRAIG: You do really have to go.

CRAIG picks up her bag and walks her outside.

INT. STORE, LADIES CHANGING ROOMS, NIGHT

SHONA walks into the changing rooms and sees clothes strewn about the floor as the lights continue to flicker.

SHONA: Kelly!

SHONA bends over to start picking up the clothes. The curtain over the last room waves.

SHONA: Hello? Sorry, we need to close up? Two minutes, OK? (continues to pick up clothes)

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

CRAIG is sitting at the table talking on the phone.

CRAIG: Mum, it's not just you. I'm phoning everybody. I'm texting the world. Craig Owens can do it on his own. No-one is coming to help me! (knock on the front door) Mum, I'm going to have to call you back. (shuts off the phone and rubs his eyes as the knocking continues) I'm coping, I'm coping on my own... I'm coping on my own! (walks to the front door)

EXT. OWENS HOUSE, FRONT DOOR, NIGHT

CRAIG: (opens door) I'm coping on my own!

DOCTOR: Hello, Craig! I'm back!

CRAIG: She didn't? How could she phone you?

DOCTOR: How could who phone me? Nobody phoned me, I'm just here. (peers inside) You've redecorated! I don't like it.

CRAIG: It's a different house, we moved.

DOCTOR: Yes, that's it.

CRAIG: Doctor, what are you doing here?

DOCTOR: Social call. Thought it was about time I tried one out. How are you?

CRAIG: I'm fine.

DOCTOR: This is the bit where I say. "I'm fine, too" isn't it? I'm fine, too. Good. Love to Sophie, bye!

The DOCTOR turns and walks away but stops when the light at the front door begins to flicker.

DOCTOR: Something's wrong! (goes inside)

CRAIG shuts the door.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, HALL, NIGHT

The DOCTOR is scanning with the sonic. He then goes upstairs.

DOCTOR: On your own, you said. But you're not... you're not on your own!

CRAIG: (follows) Just, shhh!

DOCTOR: Increased sulphur emissions. And look at the state of this place. What are you not telling me?

CRAIG: Doctor, please!

DOCTOR: Shhh!

CRAIG: No, you shhh!

DOCTOR: Shhh!

CRAIG: Shhh!

DOCTOR: No, you shhh! (goes to bedroom door)

CRAIG: Doctor!

INT. STORE, LADIES CHANGING ROOMS, NIGHT

SHONA is still cleaning up when she sees the shadow of a pair of legs appear in the last changing room.

SHONA: (walks closer) Hello, who's in there?

INT. OWENS HOUSE, HALL, NIGHT

The DOCTOR opens the bedroom door and rushes in.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, ALFIE'S ROOM, NIGHT

We see the room is a nursery with stuffed toys and cloth hangings on the walls. The DOCTOR doesn't see any of this.

DOCTOR: Whatever you are, get off this planet!

ALFIE starts to cry and CRAIG goes over to the crib.

CRAIG: Oh, you've woken him!

INT. STORE, LADIES CHANGING ROOMS, NIGHT

SHONA stops just outside the curtain.

SHONA: Hello? You all right?

SHONA opens the curtain and screams. Inside is a CYBERMAN, albeit one that is dirty and scratched.

---

Matt Smith
Karen Gillan
Arthur Darvill

DOCTOR WHO
"Closing Time"
By Gareth Roberts

Producer
Marcus Wilson

Director
Steve Hughes

---

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

The DOCTOR closes the freezer door and turns to CRAIG

DOCTOR: So when you say on your own...

CRAIG: (holding ALFIE) Yes, I meant on my own with the baby, yes. Cos no-one thinks I can cope on my own. Which is so unfair. Because...I can't cope on my own with him! I can't. He just cries. All the time. I mean, do they have off-switches?

DOCTOR: (sits at table and flips through a pregnancy book) Human beings. No. I've checked.

CRAIG: (puts ALFIE in high chair) No, babies.

DOCTOR: Same difference. Sometimes this works though. (puts forefinger in front of his lips) Ssh.

ALFIE quiets.

CRAIG: Can you teach me to do that?

DOCTOR: (now looking at baby books) Probably not.

CRAIG: Oh, please come on, I need something, I'm rubbish at this.

DOCTOR: At what?

CRAIG: Being a dad. You read all the books, they tell you you'll know what to do if you follow your instinct. I have no instinct! That's what this weekend's about, trying to prove to people I can do this one thing well.

DOCTOR: (laughs at the book and closes it) So what did you call him? Will I blush?

CRAIG: No, we didn't call him "the Doctor"!

DOCTOR: No, I didn't think you would.

CRAIG: He's called Alfie. What are you doing here anyway?

As CRAIG prepares tea, the DOCTOR leans over and listens to ALFIE.

DOCTOR: Yes, he likes that, Alfie. Though personally he prefers to be called Stormageddon, Dark Lord of All.

CRAIG: Sorry, what?

DOCTOR: That's what he calls himself.

CRAIG: How do you know that?

DOCTOR: I speak baby. (stands)

CRAIG: Of course you do! I don't even know when his nappy needs changing. (sits) I'm the one supposed to be his dad.

DOCTOR: Oh, yeah. He's wondering where his mum is? (massages CRAIG'S shoulders) Where is Sophie?

CRAIG: Gone away with Melina for the weekend. Needs a rest.

DOCTOR: (to ALFIE) No, he's your dad, you can't just call him 'Not-Mum'.

CRAIG: Not-Mum?

DOCTOR: That's you. Also, Not Mum, that's me. And everybody else is...(leans in front of ALFIE) "peasants." That's a bit unfortunate. (tickles ALFIE's head)

CRAIG: What are you here for?

DOCTOR: I just popped in to say hello. (almost puts a piece of chalk in his mouth)

CRAIG: I checked down stairs when I moved in. And next door, both sides, they're humans. Is it the fridge? Are there aliens in my fridge?

DOCTOR: I just want to see you, Craig! Cross my hearts. (each hand crosses a heart) I've been knocking about on my own. A farewell tour. One last thing, popping in to see you, then I'm off to the Alignment of Exedor.

CRAIG: The Alignment of Exedor?

DOCTOR: 17 galaxies in perfect unison. Meant to be spectacular, I can't miss it. Literally can't. It's locked in a time stasis field, I get one cr*ck at flying my TARDIS straight into it, if I get my dates right. (looks at newspaper) Which I have.

CRAIG: Sounds nice.

DOCTOR: (picks up the paper again) So this is me popping in and popping out again. Just being social, just having a laugh. (slowly) Never mind that.

CRAIG: Never mind what?

DOCTOR: Nothing.

CRAIG: (stands) No, you noticed something. You've got your noticing face on. I have nightmares about that face.

The DOCTOR puts a hand over his face and spins around as CRAIG talks.

DOCTOR: Nope, given up all that, done with noticing things. (lights flicker) Didn't even notice that, for example. Got to go. Good seeing you, Craig. (shakes CRAIG'S hand) Goodbye, Stormageddon. (air kisses ALFIE on each cheek)

ALFIE starts fussing as the DOCTOR walks away.

CRAIG: No, no, wait, wait, could you do the shushing thing? Shhh.

DOCTOR: No, it only works once, and only on life forms with underdeveloped brains.

CRAIG: Hang on, you said farewell tour? What do you mean, farewell?

DOCTOR: Ssh...

CRAIG can't speak.

EXT. OWENS HOUSE, STREET, NIGHT

The DOCTOR walks down the street talking to himself.

DOCTOR: Just go. Stop noticing. Just go! Stop noticing! Just go. Stop noticing. Just go. Stop it! (sees the streetlight flicker) Am I noticing? No, no I am not. And what I am not doing is scanning for electrical fluctuations. (scans with sonic) Oh, shut up, you! I'm just dropping in on a friend, the last thing I need right no is a patina of teleport energy, I'm going. Going! Not staying. Going. I am through saving them. (rests head on TARDIS door) I'm going away now.

INT. STORE, TOY DEPARTMENT, DAY

The DOCTOR is demonstrating a remote control helicopter for a group of children.

DOCTOR: It goes up-tiddly up, it goes down-tiddly down-down! For only £49.99, which I think is a bit steep but then again it's your parents' cash and they'll only waste it on boring stuff like lamps and vegetables, yawn!

CRAIG enters pushing ALFIE in a stroller. He's on his mobile with SOPHIE.

CRAIG: Yeah, Soph... Just enjoy your holiday! Yeah, coping.

DOCTOR: Nobody panic, but I appear to be losing control.

CRAIG: Yeah, love you.

The helicopter comes down behind CRAIG. The DOCTOR sits on the display table.

DOCTOR: Oops. (kneels on the floor and gathers the children around him) Guys, guys, ladies and gentlemen, while I deal with this awkward moment you go and find your
parents/guardians! Try in lamps! (gives one girl a high five before they leave) Craig!

CRAIG: What the hell are you doing here?

DOCTOR: I'm the Doctor, I work in a shop now. Here to help. They gave me a badge (points) with my name on in case I forget who I am, very thoughtful, as that does happen.

CRAIG: You were leaving... the alignment of Exeter, what about that? One chance to see it, you said.

DOCTOR: Well, I was on my way, saw a shop, got a job, you got to live in the moment, Craig. (turns away) Mind Yappy.

CRAIG: What?

DOCTOR: Yappy. The robot dog. Not so much fun as I remember. (strokes YAPPY) You look awful!

CRAIG: I haven't slept, have I? I still can't stop him crying. I even tried singing to him last night.

DOCTOR: Yeah, he did mention that...he thought you were crying, too. He didn't get a wink. Yappy, say goodbye to Craig and Stormageddon. (pretends to be the dog) "Goodbye, Craig, goodbye, Stormageddon."

As the DOCTOR sets Yappy down, something whizzes across the floor at the other end of the department.

DOCTOR: What was that? (heads down the aisle)

CRAIG: You're here for a reason, aren't you? You noticed something, and you're investigating it.

The DOCTOR gets down on his hands and knees.

CRAIG: Because it's you, it's going to be dangerous and alien.

DOCTOR: (stands) It might not be.

CRAIG: Doctor, I live here, I need to know!

DOCTOR: No, you don't.

CRAIG: My baby lives here, my son.

DOCTOR: Sheila Clark, went missing Tuesday. Atif Ghosh, last seen Friday. Tom Luker, last seen Sunday.

CRAIG: (picks up newspaper) Why's that not on the front page?

DOCTOR: Page one has an exclusive on Nina, a local girl who got kicked off Britain's Got Talent. These people are on pages seven, 19, 22. (pushes the stroller) No-one's noticed yet, they're far too excited about Nina's emotional journey, which in fairness, is quite inspiring.

CRAIG: And what else?

INT. STORE, CHILDREN'S, DAY

DOCTOR: These funny old power fluctuations... which just happen to coincide with the disappearances.

CRAIG: That's just the council, putting in new cables. Isn't it?

The DOCTOR stops in front of the lift that is blocked by construction tape.

DOCTOR: Oh, yes, that's it, mystery solved, oh, wasting my time, now you can go home and (uses sonic on lift) I can go to Exedor, goodbye, and here's a lift.

CRAIG: It says out of order.

DOCTOR: Not any more. (pulls down tape) See? Here to help.

The lift doors open and the DOCTOR starts to push the stroller inside. CRAIG takes over.

CRAIG: It says, "danger".

DOCTOR: Oh, rubbish, lifts aren't dangerous.

CRAIG: Do I look like I'm stupid?

ALFIE gurgles.

INT. STORE, LIFT, DAY

DOCTOR: Quiet, Stormy! Oh, all right, there's more. (enters lift and uses sonic on the panel) Just between you, me and Stormy, don't want to frighten my punters. Someone's been using a teleport relay, right here in this shop. Missing people last seen in this area. (places his finger on CRAIG'S lips) Before you ask, CCTV's been wiped.

CRAIG: A teleport? (stammers) A teleport? Like a beam me up teleport, (uses hand motions) like you see in Star Trek?

DOCTOR: Exactly. Someone's been using a beam me up Star Trek teleport. Could be disguised as anything.

CRAIG: But a teleport? In a shop? That's ridiculous!

The lights flicker again and they are no longer in the lift. CRAIG hasn't noticed.

INT. CYBERSHIP, DAY

CRAIG: What was that? Was that the lights again?

DOCTOR: (squeaky) Yes, that's it. That's all, it's the lights.

CRAIG: Why did you say that like that?

DOCTOR: (high) Like what? (normal) Like, like what?

CRAIG: Like that, in that high-pitched voice.

DOCTOR: Just keep looking at me, Craig. Right at me, just keep looking.

CRAIG: Why?

DOCTOR: Well, because, because, because... (CRAIG starts to turn around and the DOCTOR grabs his arms) I love you.

CRAIG: You love me?

DOCTOR: Yes, Craig. It's you. It's always been you.

CRAIG: Me?

The DOCTOR puts his arms around CRAIG'S shoulders, trying to hide the fact he's taken out the sonic.

DOCTOR: Is that so surprising?

CRAIG: Doctor, are you going to kiss me?

DOCTOR: Yes, Craig. Yes, I am. Would you like that? Bit out of practice, but I've had some wonderful feedback. (puckers up)

CRAIG: Doctor, no, I can't, I'm taken... (turns around and sees the ship) Oh, my God!

DOCTOR: Or we could just hold hands if it make you'd feel more comfortable?

CRAIG: What is happening?

A Cyberman appears in the distance and sees them.

DOCTOR: Well, first of all, I don't really love you, except as a friend.

The Cyberman walks towards them.

CRAIG: And what is that?

With a scream, the DOCTOR uses the sonic on the machinery sending them back to the lift just as the Cyberman was about to reach them.

INT. STORE, LIFT, DAY

DOCTOR: Quick reverse!

CRAIG: What the hell just happened?

INT. STORE, CHILDREN'S, DAY

The lift opens and the DOCTOR strides out, followed by CRAIG pushing the stroller.

DOCTOR: They must have linked the teleport relay to the lift, but I've fused it! They can't use that again. Stuck up there on their spaceship.

CRAIG: What were those things?

DOCTOR: Cybermen.

CRAIG: Ship? Space ship? We were in space?

EXT. CITY STREET, NIGHT

The DOCTOR and CRAIG look up at the sky as the DOCTOR scans with the sonic.

DOCTOR: It's got to be up there somewhere, can't get a fix, it must be shielded.

CRAIG: You fused the teleport. You sorted it. They can't come back.

DOCTOR: I've just bought myself a little time. Still got to work out what they're doing before I can stop it.

CRAIG: But if they've got the teleport and they're evil, why haven't they invaded already?

DOCTOR: Craig... take Alfie and go.

CRAIG: No!

DOCTOR: No?

CRAIG: No, I remember from last time, people got k*lled, people that didn't know you. I know where it's safest, for me and Alfie. And that's right next to you.

DOCTOR: Is that so?

CRAIG: Yeah, you always win, you always survive!

DOCTOR: Those were the days.

CRAIG: I can help you, I'm staying!

DOCTOR: Craig...(shakes head) Craig, all right, all right... maybe those days aren't quite over yet. Let's go and investigate... I mean, there's no immediate danger now.

INT. STORE, JEWELRY, NIGHT

The DOCTOR and CRAIG walk in with the stroller. The DOCTOR greets an older woman behind the counter.

DOCTOR: Good afternoon, Val.

VAL: Hello.

The DOCTOR starts to walk over to the counter, but CRAIG grabs his arm.

CRAIG: Where am I investigating?

DOCTOR: Well, look round. Ask questions. People like it when you're with a baby, babies are sweet, people talk to you. That's why I usually take a human with me.

CRAIG: So I'm your baby?

DOCTOR: You're my baby! (hugs CRAIG)

From the counter, VAL watches and smiles. CRAIG leaves with ALFIE. The DOCTOR tries on a pair of sunglasses.

VAL: Hope you don't mind me saying, Doctor, but I think you look ever so sweet, you and your partner and the baby.

DOCTOR: Partner. Yes, I like it. Is it better than 'companion'?

VAL: Companion sounds old-fashioned. There's no need to be coy these days.

DOCTOR: You've not noticed anything unusual around here lately, Val?

VAL: Well...

DOCTOR: Yes, yes?

VAL: Mary Warnock saw Don Petheridge snogging Andrea Groom outside the Conservative Club on his so-called day off 'golfing'.

DOCTOR: Yeah. Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.

The DOCTOR air-kisses VAL on each cheek and starts to walk away.

VAL: And then there's that silver rat thing.

DOCTOR: (turns) What?

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, NIGHT

As CRAIG walks through pushing the stroller, we see a "silver rat thing" zip across the floor. CRAIG stops to give himself a pep talk.

CRAIG: All right, Alfie, you watch Daddy investigate. You look cute, I'll do the talking.

CRAIG approaches KELLY, who is holding bras up for size. CRAIG leans in a little close.

KELLY: Good afternoon, sir, can I help you?

CRAIG: Hiya! (holds out his hand) I'm Craig!

KELLY: (ignores CRAIG'S hand) Yeah?

CRAIG: Do you mind, if I just ask you some questions?

KELLY: Y'what?

CRAIG: Just between you and me, in confidence, have you noticed anything unusual? Interesting?

KELLY: Y'what?

CRAIG: Talk to me about ladieswear.

KELLY: (backs away) George!

A large security guard walks over.

CRAIG: Hi, George... nice uniform.

INT. STORE, TOY DEPARTMENT, NIGHT

The DOCTOR is under a table scanning with the sonic. He has a large net in his other hand.

DOCTOR: A silver rat. (stands) Glowing red eyes.

VAL: Yes, then it zizzed off. I wanted to get one for my nephew, but stockroom say there's no such item.

DOCTOR: I bet they do. (puts away sonic)

VAL: Well, what was it then? Answer me that.

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, NIGHT

GEORGE: Can I help you, sir?

CRAIG: Have you seen how cute my baby is? Look at his face. (backs away pulling stroller) I'm going to head off actually. All right, whoa..(knocks over a stand)

INT. STORE, TOY DEPARTMENT, NIGHT

The DOCTOR and VAL hear the sound of stands falling over.

VAL: What's all that hullabaloo?

DOCTOR: Umm. That'll be my partner! (hands VAL the net and runs off)

VAL: Aww!

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, NIGHT

CRAIG is trying to pick up the items. ALFIE is crying.

GEORGE: Make a habit of hanging round in womens' wear, sir?

CRAIG: I'm sorry, oh, ssh, ssh, Alfie, come on. (rocks the stroller)

KELLY: He's a pervert, look at him.

The DOCTOR runs over.

DOCTOR: Hello, everyone! Here to help.

KELLY: Hello, Doctor.

GEORGE: Hello, Doctor.

DOCTOR: Hello. Has anyone seen a silver rat? No, OK. Long sh*t, I see you've met my friend, Craig. Nice uniform George. (gives him the "OK" sign and whistles)

GEORGE: Thank you, Doctor. If he's with you, that's all right then.

KELLY: Sorry. I thought he was hassling me, ‘cause that's the last thing I need today. ‘Cause Shona's not turned up, right, so I'm doing twice the work for the same money.

DOCTOR: Ssh!

KELLY stops talking.

CRAIG: Please teach me how to do that.

DOCTOR: No hold on... Un-ssh! Shona?

KELLY: My supervisor. She's meant to be in today but never showed up.

DOCTOR: Where did you last see her?

INT. STORE, LADIES CHANGING ROOMS, NIGHT

The DOCTOR and CRAIG walk along the changing room corridor.

CRAIG: How do you do that? It's a power, isn't it, some sort of weird alien hypnotic power, I bet you excrete some sort of gas that makes people love you.

DOCTOR: Would that I could, Craig.

The DOCTOR opens a curtain and a woman screams. He closes the curtain.

DOCTOR: Sorry, Madam. (opens curtain) I'd try that in red if I were you. (closes curtain)

CRAIG: I'm right though, aren't I?

DOCTOR: (peers into another room) You love me, I've never excreted any weird alien gases at you.

CRAIG: I don't love you! Don't start that again.

ALFIE gurgles.

DOCTOR: Yes, I know. Of course he does. Of course you do, we're partners.

CRAIG: But I did exactly what you would have done, and I nearly got arrested!

ALFIE makes some more noises.

DOCTOR: Stormy thinks you should believe in yourself more. (scans with the sonic)

CRAIG: Great, now my baby is reviewing me.

The DOCTOR steps into the last room.

DOCTOR: Here. Right here Last night, a Cyberman took Shona.

CRAIG: A Cyberman...I thought it was a little silver rat?

DOCTOR: It's not a rat. It's a Cybermat!

CRAIG: All right don't have a go at me just cos I don't know the names.

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, NIGHT

The DOCTOR and CRAIG walk through the department.

DOCTOR: Cybermats are infiltrators. Very small, very deadly... they collect power like bees collect pollen. One of them's been sucking the electrical energy from this area. But why a shop, you know, why not a nuclear power station?

CRAIG: OK, why?

DOCTOR: Let's ask it. We wait for the shop to shut, we stake the place out, and grab ourselves a Cybermat.

CRAIG: And this is just a coincidence, is it?

DOCTOR: What is?

CRAIG: Aliens in Colchester? Aliens twice in my life, happening to me just when you turn up.

DOCTOR: This is not my fault, Craig.

ALFIE starts fussing.

CRAIG: Shh, shh. Look what you've done! (comforts ALFIE)

DOCTOR: It's his nappy, he's mentioned it twice.

CRAIG: I don't speak baby, do I?

DOCTOR: There's a changing station over by electrical goods.

CRAIG: And of course, you'd know that. Come on, Alfie. (heads off)

VAL sees what's happening while with a customer.

DOCTOR: Craig it's a coincidence. It happens, it's what the universe does for...

The DOCTOR turns around and sees AMY and RORY shopping—RORY carrying many bags. A GIRL comes up to AMY.

GIRL: Can I have your autograph please?

AMY:
Yeah. Sure. (takes the girl's notepad)

DOCTOR: ..fun.

AMY: What's your name?

GIRL: Ellie.

AMY: (signs autograph) I like your hairband.

ELLIE: Thank you.

The DOCTOR opens his mouth as if to call AMY. Instead, he backs away and ducks behind a rack of clothes.

RORY: All right?

AMY: There you go. (hands ELLIE her pad)

ELLIE: Thank you.

AMY and RORY leave. ELLIE points out AMY to her mother and then points in the DOCTOR'S direction. The DOCTOR questioningly points at himself before turning around. Behind him on the wall is a promotional ad bearing AMY'S face. It is for a perfume named Petrichor "For The Girl Who's Tired of Waiting".

DOCTOR: (smiles) Amelia Pond.

INT. STORE, PERFUME COUNTER, NIGHT

The DOCTOR and CRAIG hide as GEORGE walks by on patrol. The DOCTOR is holding the net.

DOCTOR: OK, sshh.

The DOCTOR and CRAIG get up as soon as GEORGE passes by. The DOCTOR starts scanning with the sonic.

DOCTOR: Right. Let's be having you then, Cybermat.

ALFIE starts crying.

CRAIG: Can't you put that on quiet?

DOCTOR: No! It's a sonic screwdriver. Sonic equals sound! (takes an item out from his coat) Take this. I got it on my discount, 10% off. It's a papoose. (drapes it on CRAIG)

CRAIG: Why do I need a papoose?

DOCTOR: Alfie wants to attach you to him. You're far too slow when he summons you.

CRAIG: When's he going to stop giving me marks?

DOCTOR: Never. That's parenthood. Couldn't you have got a babysitter? (ALFIE vocalizes) No, any babysitter...doesn't have to be a hot one.

CRAIG: I told everyone I know I didn't need their help this weekend, they won't answer my calls. I didn't know there was going to be an invasion of Cyberman. (ALFIE fusses) Sshh.

INT. STORE, BASEMENT, NIGHT

GEORGE is checking the fusebox. He taps one of the fluorescent lights and it comes on momentarily. He uses his torch to check the corridor.

INT. STORE, PERFUME COUNTER, NIGHT

The DOCTOR and CRAIG try to quiet ALFIE.

DOCTOR: It's OK.

As CRAIG picks up ALFIE, the DOCTOR sees the cybermat and lunges, catching it in the net.

DOCTOR: Ha-ha! (whispers) That's very odd. It must be on low power. Or I'm better at that than I remember.

The DOCTOR picks up the cybermat and stands, showing CRAIG.

CRAIG: Oh, is that it?

DOCTOR: Yeah.

CRAIG: Oh, it's quiet cute look at that. Look, Alfie, look.

The cybermat opens its mouth showing two rows of sharp teeth. CRAIG screams and the DOCTOR uses the sonic on it.

INT. STORE, BASEMENT, NIGHT

GEORGE walks down one of the corridors but stops when he hears a clanking sound. As he turns, behind him we see the silhouette of a Cyberman.

INT. STORE, PERFUME COUNTER, NIGHT

CRAIG is panicking.

CRAIG: Metal rat. Real mouth! Metal rat, Real mouth, metal rat, real mouth!

DOCTOR: Stop screaming. STOP SCREAMING! Sshh!

They hear a scream.

DOCTOR: Come on!

The DOCTOR runs off and CRAIG follows, putting ALFIE in the papoose as he does so.

INT. STORE, BASEMENT, NIGHT

The DOCTOR searches the corridors using the sonic's "torch" setting.

DOCTOR: George! (spots GEORGE'S torch on the floor and then sees GEORGE'S body) George...

As the DOCTOR bends over to examine GEORGE, a Cyberman comes out of the doorway and knocks him to the ground with its arm. He blacks out. He comes too with CRAIG looking down at him.

CRAIG: Doctor! Doctor! What happened?

DOCTOR: Oh, I've been chipped, chapped... Chopped! (CRAIG helps him stand) The Cyberman... it k*lled George, took him back to the ship.

CRAIG: The Cybermen are here! But you said.

DOCTOR: (stumbles) Yeah, I know what I said, I say a lot of things! (scans with sonic) But I fused the teleport it should have taken them days to repair.

CRAIG: Are you OK?

DOCTOR: I should be dead...but the arm it chopped me with, it was damaged, old spare parts. Must have changed those missing people.

CRAIG: They changed the missing into Cybermen? Why didn't they change you?

DOCTOR: Long story. I'm not exactly compatible. But why are they using spare parts, why? Everything I find out makes less sense!

CRAIG: Doctor, listen to me. If the Cybermen are here, then we're not safe, we've got to go. We've got to go back to base.

DOCTOR: We've got a base? When did we get a base?

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

The DOCTOR is playing mad scientist mixing up something on the table. Resting next to him is the cybermat.

CRAIG: I'm going down the shops, we're out of milk. You know what to do if he cries. (tosses intercom at the DOCTOR)

DOCTOR: No!

CRAIG: (from hallway) Me neither.

ALFIE starts crying.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, ALFIE'S ROOM, NIGHT

Above ALFIE'S crib is a soft mobile of the moon and stars. As it turns, it plays music and projects stars onto the ceiling. The DOCTOR steps cautiously into the room.

DOCTOR: Hello, Stormageddon. It's the Doctor. Here to help.

The DOCTOR picks up a small stuffed bunny and tries to get the baby's attention.

DOCTOR: Shhh. There, there. Be quiet. Go to sleep. Really, stop crying. (ALFIE looks at him) You've got a lot to look forward to, you know. A normal human life on Earth. Mortgage repayments, the nine to five, a persistent nagging sense of spiritual emptiness. Save the tears for later, boyo. Oh, no! (rubs forehead) That was crabby. No, that was old! But I am old, Stormy. I am so old. So near the end.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

On the kitchen table, the cybermat switches back on.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, ALFIE'S ROOM, NIGHT

The DOCTOR picks up ALFIE.

DOCTOR: You, Alfie Owens, you are so young, aren't you? And, you know, right now, everything's ahead of you. You could be anything. Yes, I know. You could walk among the stars. They don't actually look like that, you know, they are rather more impressive.

The DOCTOR uses the sonic and the projection becomes more realistic of space.

DOCTOR: Yeah! You know, when I was little like you, I dreamt of the stars. I think it's fair to say, in the language of your age, that I lived my dream. I owned the stage, gave it a 110%. I hope you have as much fun as I did, Alfie. (kisses ALFIE'S head)

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

The cybermat is no longer on the table, but scooting across the floor.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, ALFIE'S ROOM, NIGHT

DOCTOR: Your dad's trying his best, you know. Yes, I know. It's not his fault he doesn't have mammary glands. No, but neither do I! Alfie, why is there a sinister beeping coming from behind me?

The DOCTOR turns around slowly and sees the cybermat at the doorway, chomping its mouth.

DOCTOR: Oh, no you don't. (uses the sonic) Come on, Alfie. Run! It's only stunned!

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

The DOCTOR hurries down the stairs and through the kitchen to the door.

DOCTOR: It's going to be OK. Good, Alfie. We're going to go outside. Don't worry about it.

The DOCTOR opens the door but drops the sonic. The door locks behind him.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, FRONT HALL, NIGHT

CRAIG returns home.

CRAIG: I'm back!

CRAIG sets down his mobile and keys. The mobile buzzes.

EXT. OWENS HOUSE, BACK GARDEN, NIGHT

The DOCTOR is on his mobile.

DOCTOR: Come on, Craig, pick up, pick up, pick up, pick up!

INT. OWENS HOUSE, NIGHT

CRAIG checks the rooms for the DOCTOR.

CRAIG: Doctor? Doctor?

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

CRAIG goes into the kitchen and puts away the milk. As he turns around, the cybermat att*cks, flying for his throat. The power of the att*ck knocks CRAIG to the floor, but he is able to hold back the gnashing teeth

EXT. OWENS HOUSE, BACK GARDEN, NIGHT

The DOCTOR is on his mobile.

DOCTOR: Craig, don't worry, Alfie is fine, but on no account enter the house.

CRAIG: (inside)
Doctor!

The DOCTOR turns around and sees CRAIG fighting the cybermat.

DOCTOR: No, no, no, no, no, no, no, no, no!

CRAIG: (inside)
Help me!

The DOCTOR places ALFIE in his swing and kisses his head. He then spits on his hands, rubs them together and jumps through the glass door.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, NIGHT

CRAIG is sill holding the cybermat away from his neck.

CRAIG: Where's Alfie?! Where's Alfie?!

DOCTOR: He's safe, he's safe! (gets the sonic)

CRAIG: Get it off me!

DOCTOR: I have to find the right frequency, shut it down!

CRAIG: k*ll it!

DOCTOR: (groans) All right, all right, all right! MOVE!

The DOCTOR picks up a pot from the table and hits the cybermat, sending it skidding across the floor. CRAIG gets up but the cybermat is now at the DOCTOR'S throat.

DOCTOR: Ow! Baking tray, Craig, baking tray!

With timing, the DOCTOR throws it to the floor just as CRAIG covers it and holds it down with a baking tray. The DOCTOR gets up.

DOCTOR: Hold it down!

CRAIG: Get on with it!

DOCTOR: Ah, it must be shielded from metastatic energy! Of course!

CRAIG: Yeah, of course!

DOCTOR: Don't worry, I have an app for that. Stand back. Stand back!

CRAIG moves back and the DOCTOR fires at the cybermat, "k*lling" it.

DOCTOR: Success! That was amazing, you must be really, really strong. That thing should have had you easy.

CRAIG: Is it definitely dead?

DOCTOR: Inactive, yes. Technically never been alive. It was (air quotes) playing possum before, to take us by surprise. Bravo. (claps)

CRAIG: Whoo! (closes eyes and breathes deep) Alfie! (rushes outside)

INT. OWENS HOUSE, LIVING ROOM, NIGHT

The DOCTOR is sitting on the couch working on the cybermat, using a loupe. CRAIG is holding ALFIE.

CRAIG: I'm knackered. That thing was eating up the electricity.

DOCTOR: And transmitting it up to the Cybership. But why? Why do they need power, why are those conversions not complete yet, and what are they doing up there?

CRAIG: You said you were going to look at its brain.

DOCTOR: I had to wipe its brain. Now I can reprogram it, use it as a w*apon against them.

CRAIG: (sits on the couch) The Cybermat came after us?

DOCTOR: No, after me.

CRAIG: They sent it after us?

DOCTOR: After me. Because of me, you and Alfie nearly d*ed. (takes the loupe from his eye) Do you still feel safe with me, Craig?

CRAIG: You can't help who your mates are.

DOCTOR: No! I am a stupid and selfish man. Always have been. I should have made you go, I should never have come here.

CRAIG: What would have happened if you hadn't come? Who else knows about Cybermen and teleports?

DOCTOR: I put people in danger.

CRAIG: Stop b*ating yourself up! If it wasn't for you this whole planet would be an absolute ruin.

DOCTOR: (puts down cybermat) Craig, very soon I won't be here... my time is running out. I don't mean Exedor. Silence will fall when the question is asked. Don't even know what the question is. Always knew I'd die still asking. Thing is, Craig, it's tomorrow. Can't put it off any more. Tomorrow is the day I...

The DOCTOR looks over to see CRAIG and ALFIE both asleep. He smiles wistfully and sighs. He then stands and covers them with a blanket.

EXT. OWENS HOUSE, DAY

The DOCTOR closes the door gently behind him. He's holding the cybermat and a remote control.

DOCTOR: Safe mode. Clever me. Come along, Bitey. (pets the cybermat as he leaves)

INT. OWENS HOUSE, LIVING ROOM, DAY

CRAIG wakes with the sun in his eyes. SOPHIE is on the answer phone.

SOPHIE: 'So I'll be back about ten, cos Melina's totally gone off on one, she's going to k*ll David Jenkins. 'I'm stupid to worry, I can't wait to get home to my special boys!'

CRAIG stands and notices that the cybermat is missing.

CRAIG: Oh, no, no, no! Doctor?

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, DAY

CRAIG goes looking for the DOCTOR

SOPHIE: 'Love you. Alfie, love you, Craig!'

The DOCTOR left a note in silver ink on blue paper on the fridge. It reads: Dear Craig, Gone to stop Cybermen. Sorry. Goodbye. The Doctor.

CRAIG: You idiot!

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, DAY

The DOCTOR hurries in, looking around. VAL arrives.

VAL: Morning!

DOCTOR: Morning. Teleport's still fused. (walks with VAL) They didn't repair it. So the Cyberman last night, how did it get down here, how did it get out? And why, why, am I asking you?

VAL: You found the silver rat!

DOCTOR: But where are the silver men?

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, DAY

CRAIG has changed and has dressed ALFIE for outside. He puts the baby into the papoose.

CRAIG: Sorry, Alfie, I can't leave you here on your own. There's something up with the Doctor, and we owe him. I wouldn't have you or Mummy if it wasn't for him! He needs someone. He always needs someone and he just can't admit it. I promise nothing's going to happen to you! (kisses him on the cheek) All right, come on, here we go. (leaves)

INT. STORE, LADIES CHANGING ROOMS, DAY

The DOCTOR runs his theory past the cybermat.

DOCTOR: Secondary teleport. No, there is no other teleport, they must have had a back-up system, something complicated, something powerful, something shielded. Something like... a door. A door! (goes into last room) A disillium-bonded steel door disguised as a wall! That is cheating!

The full length mirror swings out on hinges revealing a roughly carved tunnel.

DOCTOR: So... it didn't teleport down. It climbed up.

INT. TUNNEL, DAY

The DOCTOR walks slowly and scans with the sonic. He then slides down and into a large cavern where the damaged cyber-ship was hidden.

INT. CYBERSHIP, DAY

The DOCTOR explores the ship and soon finds the conversion room.

DOCTOR: (whistles) Well, well, well. You have been busy.

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, DAY

CRAIG rushes in.

CRAIG: Doctor! Doctor!

VAL: Another row? He went in the changing rooms, something about silver men.

CRAIG: Oh, God, no. Val, I need you too look after Alfie for me, OK? (takes off papoose) Please look after him, the Doctor needs me. (hands ALFIE to VAL and runs off)

CRAIG: Don't follow me!

VAL: I wasn't intending to.

INT. CYBERSHIP, DAY

Partially buried in dirt on the floor, the DOCTOR finds GEORGE'S nametag. A CYBERMAN marches up behind him.

CYBERMAN: You have come to us.

DOCTOR: Took me a while, alot on my mind. (stands and turns around) Let's see, this ship crashed here centuries ago, no survivors, but the systems are dormant waiting for power. And then the council stick a load of new cables right on top of you. Bitey wakes up and channels the power, you start crewing up from the shop as best you can, not enough power, not enough parts.

CYBERMAN: When we are ready we will emerge. We will convert this planet to Cyberform.

DOCTOR: What, the six of you?

CYBERMAN: You know that is enough. You know us. You are the Doctor.

DOCTOR: Correct. And the Doctor always gives you a choice. Deactivate yourself, or I deactivate you.

The DOCTOR aims the sonic at it and the CYBERMAN takes a step back. Another CYBERMAN enters behind him.

INT. STORE, LADIES CHANGING ROOMS, DAY

CRAIG runs through the rooms.

CRAIG: Doctor? Doctor?

Craig sees the entrance to the tunnel. Looking around, he grabs a handheld UPC scanner before entering the tunnel.

INT. CYBERSHIP, DAY

The DOCTOR cries out as one of the CYBERMEN grabs him and holds his arms behind his back. The cybermat falls to the ground.

CYBERMAN 1: He must be the new leader.

CYBERMAN 2: No. He is not like us. Brain and binary vascular system incompatible.

CRAIG watches from the other room.

CYBERMAN 2: They will be discarded. Other body parts may be of use.

CRAIG: (brandishes scanner like a g*n) Oi, Cybermen! Get off my planet, or I activate this.

DOCTOR: Craig, stop this, get out!

CRAIG: It's like you said, Doctor, got to believe you can do it!

CYBERMAN 2: You located us?

CRAIG: Teleport in the lift, bit rubbish. That little Cybermat never stood a chance. See what you're dealing with?

CYBERMAN 2: You are compatible. You are intelligent.

The CYBERMAN touches his hand to his chest panel and then sh**t electricity at CRAIG, forcing him to drop the scanner. Another CYBERMAN grabs him and pulls him forward.

CRAIG: No, I'm not intelligent, you don't want me.

CYBERMAN 2: Do not fear. We will take your fear from you. You will be like us. You will be more than us.

CYBERMAN 2 moves to one of the conversion chambers and opens it.

CRAIG: No, no, no, no.

CYBERMAN 2: Your designation is Cyber Controller. You will lead us, we will conquer this world.

The CYBERMEN begin to force CRAIG into the chamber.

CRAIG: Doctor!

DOCTOR: Craig!

CRAIG: Do something! Please!

Different parts clamp down on CRAIG'S arms and legs.

CRAIG: DOCTOR!

DOCTOR: Craig, don't worry. I've reprogrammed the Cybermat, it'll drain their power!

The DOCTOR pulls the remote from his pocket. The cybermat scuttles across the floor until CYBERMAN 2 steps on it.

CYBERMAN 2: You have failed, Doctor. Begin conversion! Phase one. Cleanse the brain of emotions.

DOCTOR: No! Craig! Fight it! They can't convert you if you fight back! You're strong, don't give in to it!

CRAIG: Help me!

DOCTOR: Think of Sophie, think of Alfie, don't let them take it all away!

CRAIG: Make it stop. Please make it stop!

DOCTOR: Please, listen to me! I believe in you, I believe you can do this! I've always believed in all of you, all my life! I'm going die, Craig. Tomorrow, I'm going to die, but I don't mind if you just prove me right! CRAIG!

The headpiece closes around CRAIG, seamlessly welding shut down the middle.

CYBERMAN 2: Begin full conversion.

The DOCTOR watches in agony as we hear the whir of machinery.

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, DAY

VAL tries to comfort a crying ALFIE.

VAL: Don't worry, It's just a little light going out.

INT. CYBERSHIP, DAY

A monitor comes to life with security footage from the store of VAL and ALFIE.

CYBERMAN 1: Unknown soundwave detected.

CYBERMAN 2: It is the sound of fear. It is irrelevant. We will remove all fear.

DOCTOR: Alfie! I'm so sorry! Alfie, please stop! I can't help him.

CYBERMAN 1: Emotions eradicated conversion complete.

CRAIG'S fingers twitch. An alarm sounds.

CYBERMAN 2: Alert. Emotional subsystems rebooting. This is impossible.

Energy crackles around the headpiece.

DOCTOR: He can hear him. He can hear Alfie! Oh, please, just give me this! Craig, you wanted a chance to prove you're a dad. You're never going to get better one than this!

A cr*ck appears down the center of the headpiece.

CYBERMAN 2: What is happening?

DOCTOR: What's happening, you metal moron? A baby is crying. And you better watch out, cos guess what? Ha! Daddy's coming home!

The headpiece opens.

CRAIG: Alfie!

CRAIG begins the fight the machine and it starts to overload.

CRAIG: Alfie, I'm here! I'm coming for you!

The CYBERMEN stagger from the emotional onslaught.

DOCTOR: Yes, Craig!

The machine starts to release CRAIG. The DOCTOR pulls free of the CYBERMAN holding him.

CRAIG: Alfie!

DOCTOR: Alfie needs you!

CYBERMAN 2: Emergency. Emotional influx!

DOCTOR: (helps CRAIG) You've triggered a feedback loop into their emotional inhibitors. All that stuff they cut out of themselves, now they're feeling it! Which means a very big expl*si*n!

CYBERMAN 2: Overload, overload, overload.

The DOCTOR and CRAIG run to the doors.

CRAIG: Get this open, we need to get to Alfie!

DOCTOR: They've sealed the ship!

The head of one of the CYBERMEN explodes.

CRAIG: We've got to get out of here!

DOCTOR: I know!

Two more CYBERMEN lose their heads.

DOCTOR: The teleport!

As another CYBERMAN'S head explodes, the DOCTOR and CRAIG run to the teleport. The DOCTOR activates it remotely with the sonic as they cling to each other.

INT. CAVERN, DAY

The Cybership explodes.

INT. STORE, LIFT, DAY

The DOCTOR and CRAIG are hugging each other tightly. They pull apart when the lift bell rings. CRAIG rushes out.

INT. STORE, LADIES DEPARTMENT, DAY

CRAIG runs into the department.

VAL: How did you get in there?

CRAIG: Alfie!

VAL: Here's your daddy.

As VAL gives ALFIE back to CRAIG, the DOCTOR runs up.

DOCTOR: That was another review. Ten out of ten.

CRAIG: The Cybermen... they blew up. I blew them up with love! (hugs ALFIE)

DOCTOR: No, that's impossible, and also grossly sentimental and over simplistic. You destroyed them because of the deeply ingrained hereditary human trait to protect one's own genes which in turn triggered a... uh... Yeah. Love. You blew them up with love.

LATER…

The DOCTOR is explaining things to KELLY.

DOCTOR: The building should be totally safe, structurally, and of course the bonded disillium contained the expl*si*n.

KELLY: Right. Why you telling me all this?

DOCTOR: I don't know. Ssh.

CRAIG comes to VAL'S counter wearing a new shirt.

VAL: It suits you.

CRAIG: Thanks.

VAL: Discount applies to partners.

CRAIG: Great.

VAL: Are you two married then?

CRAIG: Nah, we talked about it, but it's just a piece of paper, isn't it?

The DOCTOR walks over and puts an arm around CRAIG'S shoulders.

DOCTOR: Thank you for your help, Val. Good noticing. Keep 'em peeled.

VAL: I will. I'm glad you two made up for baby's sake.

DOCTOR: Ah!

CRAIG: How d'you mean?

VAL: It's nice for baby to have two daddies who love each other.

CRAIG: Wait... hang on a sec! Two daddies?

Both the DOCTOR and CRAIG start making faces and shaking their heads.

CRAIG: You think I'm...?

VAL: His companion.

CRAIG: (laughs and turns around) Doctor?

The DOCTOR is gone.

VAL: Oh! Now where's he rushed off to?

CRAIG: (softly) He's gone.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, DAY

CRAIG enters the house and slowly looks around. The house has been cleaned and there are fresh cut flowers on the coffee table.

CRAIG: Who's tidied all this up?

INT. OWENS HOUSE, KITCHEN, DAY

CRAIG enters the kitchen to see it cleaned and the table is even set. The DOCTOR enters through the newly-repaired door.

DOCTOR: See, I do come back.

CRAIG: How did you...?

DOCTOR: Time machine! But even with time travel, getting glaziers on a Sunday, tricky.

CRAIG: You went back in time? That means you used up your hours. What about Exedor?

DOCTOR: What about you being in trouble with Sophie when she comes back? I couldn't let that happen.

CRAIG: You used up your time for me?

DOCTOR: Course I did. You're me mate. I notice Stormageddon's very quiet and happy. He prefers the name Alfie now. And he's very proud of his dad.

CRAIG: He calls me dad?

DOCTOR: Yes, of course he does now! Yeah, I know, he's a bit thick, isn't he?

CRAIG: Shut up, you two!

DOCTOR: Well... Now it's time. I have to go.

CRAIG: Doctor, I know that something's wrong, I can help you.

DOCTOR: Nobody can help me. I hope Sophie won't mind, I need these. (holds up blue envelopes)

CRAIG: Where are you going to go?

DOCTOR: America.

CRAIG: Sophie will be home any second, are you sure?

DOCTOR: I can't miss this appointment, Craig. Goodbye, mate.

CRAIG: Wait there. One second.

CRAIG leaves the room and the DOCTOR opens the fridge and looks inside, making a face. CRAIG returns with a Stetson.

CRAIG: From Sean's stag. (puts it on the DOCTOR'S head)

DOCTOR: Wow.

CRAIG: You ride 'em, pardner.

DOCTOR: Oh, thanks.

The DOCTOR snaps his fingers on both hands then points them like g*ns at CRAIG before heading for the back door.

CRAIG: Bye.

There's a knock at the front door and CRAIG looks to the front and then back again.

CRAIG: Doctor, that will be Sophie arriv...

The DOCTOR is gone, the back door open.

INT. OWENS HOUSE, FRONT HALL, DAY

There's another knock on the door and CRAIG opens it. It's SOPHIE.

SOPHIE: Hello! Hello! I forgot my keys! (steps inside)

CRAIG: Oh, I've missed you so much.(hugs and kisses her)

SOPHIE: Missed you too, both of you. (stands back) Are you wearing a papoose?

CRAIG: Yeah. (closes door)

INT. OWENS HOUSE, LIVING ROOM, DAY

SOPHIE enters and is shocked.

SOPHIE: Oh, my God, the place is spotless! Has anything happened? You look different.

CRAIG: Nothing happened! Nothing weird.

SOPHIE: Look at you two, thick as thieves. Who's Daddy's little boy then?

ALFIE: Doctor.

SOPHIE: What?! Craig?

EXT. OWENS HOUSE, DAY

The DOCTOR walks down the street towards the TARDIS. There are three children—a boy and two girls—playing in the cross-street. The DOCTOR stops just in front TARDIS door.

DOCTOR: Well then, old girl. (he licks his thumb and wipes off a spot) One last trip, eh?

He turns to look at the children who stop playing and walk towards him.

DOCTOR: Hey. I'm the Doctor. I was here to help. And you are very, very welcome. (puts his hand to his hat)

GIRL 1: (V.O.) 'It was funny. He seemed so happy but so sad at the same time.'

BOY: (V.O.) 'I was just a kid, I thought maybe he was a cowboy on his way to a gunfight.'

GIRL 2: (V.O.) 'I really liked his hat.'

INT. LUNA UNIVERSITY

RIVER is reading eyewitness accounts from the three children. She then opens her diary to an entry that reads: 22/04/11, 5:02 PM, Lake Silencio"

KOVARIAN: (V.O.) Tick, tock, goes the clock. And what now shall we play?

RIVER looks about the room but sees no one.

KOVARIAN: (V.O.) Tick, tock, goes the clock. Now summer's gone away.

RIVER: Hello?

KOVARIAN: (appears from the shadows) Such a lovely old song. But is it about him?

RIVER: You know about the Doctor?

KOVARIAN: So very well.

RIVER stands.

KOVARIAN: Oh, don't try and remember me. We have been far too thorough with your dear little head.

Two of the SILENCE walk up behind RIVER. She sees them and is startled.

RIVER: What are they? What are those things?

KOVARIAN: (reads RIVER'S diary) Your owners.

RIVER turns back.

RIVER: My what?

KOVARIAN: So they made you a doctor today, did they? Doctor River Song. How clever you are. You understand what this is, don't you? (points at the entry)

RIVER: According to some accounts it's the day the Doctor dies.

KOVARIAN: By Silencio Lake on the Plain of Sighs an impossible astronaut will rise from the deep and strike the Time Lord dead.

RIVER: (sits) It's a story.

KOVARIAN: And this is where it begins.

KOVARIAN looks to the door and two soldiers enter carrying the astronaut suit.

KOVARIAN: You never really escaped us, Melody Pond. We were always coming for you.

The soldiers set down the helmet and suit and grab RIVER by the arms.

RIVER: How do you know who I am? (struggles)

KOVARIAN: I made you what you are. The woman who kills the Doctor.

RIVER: No, no, no...! (sedated) Urgh!

RIVER falls into the chair and pants heavily.

KOVARIAN: Tick, tock, goes the clock and all the years they fly.

RIVER'S vision gets blurry and the voices are muffled.

KOVARIAN: Tick, tock, and all too soon your love will surely die.

INT. LAKE SILENCIO

RIVER slowly opens her eyes and she is in the astronaut suit underwater. We then hear the rhyme sung by a small girl.

"Tick tock goes the clock
He cradled her and he rocked her
Tick tock goes the clock
Till River kills the Doctor..."