Fabula
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

Gonds Destroy Krotons' Power Source

The Doctor and Zoe escape the collapsing Dynatrope just as Jamie and Beta—along with other Gonds—successfully pour gallons of sulphuric acid onto the Krotons' crystalline power source, dissolving its tellurium core. The Doctor confirms the science behind the destruction, revealing the Gonds' ingenuity in refining his earlier experiment. Thara declares the Krotons' defeat and the Gonds' liberation, but Vana immediately undercuts his triumph by reminding him of Eelek's lingering threat. The moment marks the Krotons' final defeat and the Gonds' newfound independence, though it also sets up Thara's leadership challenge and the unresolved conflict with Eelek. The Doctor, eager to depart, slips away unnoticed, leaving the Gonds to navigate their future without his guidance.

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

2

Jamie, Beta, and other Gonds pour acid on the Dynatrope as the Doctor and Zoe emerge from the machine, confirming the Krotons' defeat. Thara and Vana witness the machine dissolving.

tense to relieved

Zoe and the Doctor learn from Beta that they expanded upon the Doctor's earlier experiment using small amounts of the acid, with the Doctor explaining that tellurium, of which the machine is composed, dissolves in sulphuric acid.

curiosity to understanding

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

8

Hopeful but slightly disheartened by the Doctor's departure, his excitement at the Krotons' defeat tempered by the realization that the Gonds must now rely on their own resources. He is determined to contribute to their scientific and technological independence.

Beta, standing beside Jamie, watches as the sulphuric acid dissolves the Krotons' power source, his expression a mix of awe and intellectual curiosity. He listens intently as the Doctor explains the chemical reaction, his scientific mind engaged. As the Doctor prepares to leave, Beta turns to him with a hopeful expression, seeking his advice for the Gonds' future development. However, he is met with the Doctor's abrupt departure, leaving him to acknowledge that the Gonds must now find their own answers.

Goals in this moment
  • To seek the Doctor's guidance for the Gonds' scientific development, hoping to leverage his expertise for their future.
  • To embrace the challenge of building Gond science independently, using the lessons learned from the Doctor's brief intervention.
Active beliefs
  • That the Gonds' future lies in their ability to develop their own scientific and technological capabilities, free from external influence.
  • That the Doctor's departure, while disappointing, is an opportunity for the Gonds to prove their self-sufficiency.
Character traits
Intellectually curious Hopeful for the future Loyal to the Gonds Eager to learn Adaptable
Follow Beta Dalek's journey

Relieved and satisfied with the Krotons' defeat, his concern for the Doctor and Zoe's safety evident. He is eager to depart with them, his focus shifting from the battle to ensuring their safe escape.

Jamie, having just poured the sulphuric acid onto the Krotons' power source, stands beside Beta, his expression a mix of relief and concern. He greets the Doctor and Zoe warmly, ensuring they are unharmed, and listens as the Doctor explains the chemical reaction. As the Doctor urges their departure, Jamie follows without hesitation, his loyalty to the Doctor and Zoe evident. He sneaks up the stairs with them, his focus shifting from the Krotons' defeat to the practicalities of their escape.

Goals in this moment
  • To ensure the Doctor and Zoe are safe and unharmed after their escape from the Dynatrope.
  • To depart swiftly with the Doctor and Zoe, prioritizing their survival and the next adventure.
Active beliefs
  • That the Doctor's leadership and Zoe's intelligence are key to their survival in dangerous situations.
  • That their role as companions is to support the Doctor and each other, even in the face of overwhelming odds.
Character traits
Loyal Protective Resourceful Quick to adapt Relieved
Follow Jamie McCrimmon's journey

Relieved and curious, with a sense of satisfaction at the Krotons' defeat but also a lingering analytical mindset. She is eager to understand the science behind their victory and ready to move on to the next challenge.

Zoe, slightly disheveled from her escape, stands beside the Doctor as he explains the chemical reaction that doomed the Krotons. She listens intently, her scientific curiosity piqued, and questions the logic behind the acid attack. As the Doctor urges their departure, she follows without hesitation, her relief at their survival evident but tempered by her analytical mind. She sneaks up the stairs with the Doctor and Jamie, her focus shifting from the Krotons' defeat to the practicalities of their escape.

Goals in this moment
  • To understand the scientific principles that led to the Krotons' defeat, seeking validation for the Gonds' improvised solution.
  • To ensure a safe and swift departure with the Doctor and Jamie, prioritizing their survival over lingering celebrations.
Active beliefs
  • That scientific reasoning and improvisation are key to overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges.
  • That the Doctor's guidance, even if brief, is invaluable in navigating dangerous situations.
Character traits
Analytical Curious Loyal to the Doctor Resourceful Quick to adapt
Follow Zoe Heriot's journey
Thara
primary

Triumphant but cautious, with a simmering determination to consolidate power and confront Eelek's faction. His victory is bittersweet, as he recognizes the immediate threat Eelek poses to his leadership.

Thara stands triumphantly amid the ruins of the Dynatrope, his leg still bandaged from earlier injuries, as he declares the Krotons' defeat and the Gonds' liberation. He asserts his claim to leadership, directly challenging Eelek's authority, and acknowledges the unresolved threat his rival poses. His posture is confident, but his tone carries a mix of determination and defiance, signaling his readiness to confront Eelek and secure his place as the Gonds' new leader.

Goals in this moment
  • To solidify his claim as the new leader of the Gonds, replacing his father Selris and countering Eelek's influence.
  • To ensure the Gonds' newly won freedom is not undermined by internal conflict, particularly the threat posed by Eelek.
Active beliefs
  • That the Gonds' liberation from the Krotons is only the first step toward true independence, requiring strong leadership to navigate internal divisions.
  • That Eelek's faction must be dealt with decisively to prevent a power struggle that could destabilize Gond society.
Character traits
Assertive Defiant Strategic Protective of Gond independence Impatient for action
Follow Thara's journey
Vana
primary

Relieved by the Krotons' defeat but cautiously optimistic, with an underlying tension about the internal threats facing the Gonds. She is not jubilant but focused on ensuring the Gonds' stability moving forward.

Vana stands beside Thara, her expression a mix of relief and quiet resolve. She celebrates the Krotons' defeat but immediately tempers Thara's triumph by reminding him of Eelek's lingering threat. Her voice is steady, her demeanor practical, as she underscores the need for caution and unity in the face of the unresolved conflict. She does not seek the spotlight but ensures the Gonds' victory is not overshadowed by complacency.

Goals in this moment
  • To ensure Thara's leadership is grounded in realism, acknowledging the immediate threat Eelek poses to Gond unity.
  • To foster a sense of collective responsibility among the Gonds, preventing internal divisions from undermining their hard-won freedom.
Active beliefs
  • That true freedom requires not just the defeat of external oppressors but also the resolution of internal conflicts.
  • That Thara's leadership will need to be both assertive and inclusive to succeed in the post-Kroton era.
Character traits
Pragmatic Loyal to Gond unity Cautious Supportive of Thara's leadership but not uncritical Diplomatic
Follow Vana's journey

Satisfied with the outcome but eager to depart, his relief at the Krotons' defeat tempered by his discomfort with prolonged goodbyes. He is proud of the Gonds' resourcefulness but does not linger to bask in their victory, preferring to leave them to their own devices.

The Doctor, slightly shaken but composed, emerges from the collapsing Dynatrope with Zoe and Jamie. He praises the Gonds' ingenuity in using sulphuric acid to dissolve the Krotons' power source, explaining the chemical reaction with characteristic enthusiasm. However, his tone shifts abruptly as he urges the group to depart, his discomfort with goodbyes evident. He slips away unnoticed, leaving the Gonds to celebrate their victory without his guidance, his focus already on the next adventure.

Goals in this moment
  • To confirm the scientific validity of the Gonds' solution and celebrate their victory, albeit briefly.
  • To depart swiftly, avoiding emotional farewells and leaving the Gonds to navigate their future independently.
Active beliefs
  • That the Gonds have demonstrated the ingenuity and resilience needed to build their own future without his direct intervention.
  • That his role as a catalyst for change is best served by moving on to new challenges, allowing others to take ownership of their victories.
Character traits
Brilliant but restless Enthusiastic about science Averse to emotional farewells Quick to move on Supportive of allies' independence
Follow The Second …'s journey

None (as an organization, the Krotons are no longer active in this scene, their defeat complete).

The Krotons are not physically present in this scene, but their defeat is the central focus of the event. Their crystalline power source is dissolved by the sulphuric acid, leading to their final collapse. The Krotons' absence is palpable, their once-dominant presence reduced to the smoldering ruins of their machine, a stark reminder of their downfall. Their influence over the Gonds is now gone, leaving a power vacuum that the Gonds must navigate.

Character traits
Defeated Reduced to ruins Symbolic of oppression
Follow Lead Kroton's journey
Supporting 1
Eelek
secondary

None (as a character, Eelek is not physically present, but his potential for conflict looms over the scene).

Eelek is not physically present in this scene, but his name is invoked as a lingering threat to Thara's leadership and the Gonds' independence. His absence is felt as a shadow over the Gonds' celebration, a reminder that their victory over the Krotons is not the end of their struggles. Thara and Vana acknowledge his potential to undermine their newfound freedom, setting up the unresolved conflict for Gond leadership.

Character traits
Absent but influential A lingering threat Symbolic of internal division
Follow Eelek's journey

Objects Involved

Significant items in this scene

5
Dynatrope Core Power Generation System

The Dynatrope, the Krotons' massive power source and stronghold, is the primary target of the Gonds' sabotage. As the sulphuric acid is poured onto its crystalline structure, the machine destabilizes, its tellurium core dissolving under the corrosive onslaught. The Dynatrope's collapse is both a physical and symbolic event, marking the end of Kroton rule and the Gonds' liberation. Its destruction is the culmination of the Doctor's and the Gonds' efforts, a tangible result of their combined ingenuity and defiance.

Before: Functioning but vulnerable, with leaking power spheres and …
After: Collapsed and smoldering, its crystalline structure dissolved by …
Before: Functioning but vulnerable, with leaking power spheres and dwindling reserves. The Krotons are desperately trying to stabilize it as the Gonds launch their attack.
After: Collapsed and smoldering, its crystalline structure dissolved by the acid. The machine is reduced to ruins, its power source destroyed, and the Krotons themselves are no longer a threat.
Gonds' Sulphuric Acid Sabotage Weapon

The Gonds' sulphuric acid is the weapon that ultimately dissolves the Krotons' crystalline power source, triggering their collapse. Poured in gallons by Jamie, Beta, and other Gonds, the acid hisses as it eats through the tellurium core of the Dynatrope, a chemical reaction the Doctor had earlier hypothesized. The acid's corrosive properties are both the key to the Krotons' defeat and a symbol of the Gonds' resourcefulness and defiance. Its effectiveness marks a turning point in the conflict, shifting power from the Krotons to the Gonds.

Before: Stored in large urns, ready for use in …
After: Exhausted, having been poured onto the Krotons' power …
Before: Stored in large urns, ready for use in the Learning Hall, its corrosive properties untapped but known to the Gonds and the Doctor.
After: Exhausted, having been poured onto the Krotons' power source, its role in the battle complete. The urns are likely empty or discarded, their contents fully utilized in the victory.
Gonds' Sulphuric Acid Urns (Beta and Jamie's Urn)

The Gonds' sulphuric acid urns are the vessels that contain and deliver the corrosive liquid used to destroy the Krotons' power source. Hefted by Jamie, Beta, and other Gonds, these urns are tipped to douse the crystalline machine, their contents hissing as they eat through the tellurium core. The urns are a practical tool in the Gonds' victory, symbolizing their unity and resourcefulness in the face of oppression. Their use is a direct result of the Doctor's earlier experiment, scaled up for maximum impact.

Before: Full of sulphuric acid, ready for use in …
After: Empty or discarded, their contents fully utilized in …
Before: Full of sulphuric acid, ready for use in the Learning Hall. They are a critical resource in the Gonds' arsenal, prepared for the final assault on the Dynatrope.
After: Empty or discarded, their contents fully utilized in the attack. The urns may be left behind in the Learning Hall or the ruins of the Dynatrope, their purpose fulfilled.
Krotons' Dynatrope Power Sphere

The Krotons' power sphere, though not explicitly mentioned in this event, is implicitly referenced as part of the Dynatrope's destruction. Its earlier leak signaled the machine's vulnerability, and its dissolution in the acid attack is a critical moment in the Krotons' defeat. The sphere's failure to contain the acid marks the beginning of the end for the Krotons' power source, leading to the machine's complete collapse. Its role is symbolic of the Krotons' fragility and the Gonds' ability to exploit it.

Before: Leaking fluid, signaling the Dynatrope's vulnerability. It is …
After: Dissolved, its contents spilled and its structure destroyed …
Before: Leaking fluid, signaling the Dynatrope's vulnerability. It is part of the machine's failing infrastructure, a weak point that the Gonds exploit.
After: Dissolved, its contents spilled and its structure destroyed as part of the Dynatrope's collapse. It no longer functions as a power source for the Krotons.
Learning Hall Stone Staircase

The Learning Hall's stone staircase serves as the escape route for the Doctor, Zoe, and Jamie after the Dynatrope's destruction. The stairs are a practical means of exiting the collapsing structure, but they also symbolize the transition from the battle against the Krotons to the Gonds' newfound freedom. As the Doctor, Zoe, and Jamie sneak up the stairs, they leave behind the ruins of the Dynatrope and the celebrating Gonds, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. The stairs are a neutral but critical space, facilitating the group's departure and the Doctor's unnoticed exit.

Before: Intact and accessible, providing a clear path from …
After: Still intact, though possibly damaged by the collapse …
Before: Intact and accessible, providing a clear path from the Learning Hall to the surface. The stairs are part of the Hall's structure, unchanged by the battle but now serving a new purpose as an escape route.
After: Still intact, though possibly damaged by the collapse of the Dynatrope. The stairs remain a functional part of the Learning Hall, now a symbol of the Gonds' victory and the Doctor's departure.

Location Details

Places and their significance in this event

3
Dynatrope Interior (Control Room)

The Dynatrope Interior is the site of the Krotons' final defeat, though it is not physically present in this event. Its destruction is the culmination of the Gonds' efforts, and its collapse is implied as the sulphuric acid dissolves its crystalline structure. The Dynatrope's interior, once a humming, oppressive space where the Krotons conducted their operations, is now reduced to ruins, its power source destroyed and its influence over the Gonds ended. The location's role in this event is symbolic, representing the end of Kroton rule and the Gonds' liberation.

Atmosphere None (as the Dynatrope Interior is not physically present in this scene, its atmosphere is …
Function The site of the Krotons' final defeat, where their power source is destroyed and their …
Symbolism Represents the end of Kroton oppression and the Gonds' newfound freedom. The Dynatrope's destruction is …
Access None (the Dynatrope is collapsing and no longer accessible, its interior reduced to ruins).
The smoldering ruins of the Dynatrope, its crystalline structure dissolved by the sulphuric acid. The leaking power sphere, now destroyed, its contents spilled and its structure collapsed. The humming of the machine, now silenced, replaced by the hiss of the acid and the cheers of the Gonds.
Learning Hall (Gond Ceremonial & Educational Chamber)

The Learning Hall serves as the primary location for this event, functioning as both a battleground and a victory site. It is here that the Gonds gather to celebrate the Krotons' defeat, pouring the sulphuric acid onto the Dynatrope's power source and witnessing its collapse. The Hall, once a symbol of Kroton oppression, is now a space of liberation, its ruins a testament to the Gonds' defiance. The atmosphere is charged with relief and triumph, but also a sense of urgency as the Doctor and his companions prepare to depart. The Hall's symbolic significance is profound, representing the transition from oppression to freedom and the Gonds' newfound independence.

Atmosphere Tension-filled with whispered conversations and triumphant cheers, the air thick with the scent of sulphuric …
Function Battleground and victory site, where the final assault on the Krotons' power source takes place …
Symbolism Represents the end of Kroton rule and the beginning of Gond independence. The Hall's transformation …
Access Open to the Gonds and the Doctor's companions, though the collapsing structure may pose physical …
The ruins of the Dynatrope, smoldering and dissolving under the effects of the sulphuric acid. Large urns, now empty, scattered around the Hall, evidence of the Gonds' improvised weapon. Dust and debris from the collapsing structure, hanging in the air and settling on the Gonds' clothing. The stone staircase, providing a clear path to the surface and symbolizing the transition to freedom.
Outside the Dynatrope

The wastelands outside the Dynatrope serve as the departure point for the Doctor, Zoe, and Jamie. Though not explicitly shown in this event, the wastelands are implied as the location where the TARDIS dematerializes, marking the Doctor's unnoticed exit. The rugged cliffside wasteland, once a site of danger and oppression under the Krotons, now symbolizes the Doctor's departure and the Gonds' newfound independence. The location's role is transitional, representing the end of the Doctor's involvement and the beginning of the Gonds' self-sufficiency.

Atmosphere None (as the wastelands are not physically present in this scene, their atmosphere is implied …
Function Departure point for the Doctor and his companions, marking the end of their involvement in …
Symbolism Represents the Doctor's departure and the Gonds' newfound independence. The wastelands, once a site of …
Access None (the wastelands are open and accessible, though they may still pose physical hazards).
The rugged cliffside terrain, marked by boulders and the scattered remains of the Krotons' influence. The TARDIS, dematerializing as the Doctor and his companions depart, leaving the Gonds to their own devices. The poison gas jets, now silent, their threat neutralized by the Krotons' defeat.

Organizations Involved

Institutional presence and influence

2
Krotons

The Krotons, as an organization, are no longer physically present in this event, but their defeat is the central focus. Their crystalline power source is dissolved by the sulphuric acid, leading to their final collapse. The Krotons' absence is palpable, their once-dominant presence reduced to the smoldering ruins of their machine. Their influence over the Gonds is now gone, leaving a power vacuum that the Gonds must navigate. The organization's involvement is symbolic, representing the end of their rule and the Gonds' liberation.

Representation Through their absence and the ruins of their machine, the Krotons are represented as a …
Power Dynamics None (the Krotons are defeated and no longer exert any power over the Gonds or …
Impact The Krotons' defeat marks the end of their institutional power and the beginning of the …
Gond Indigenous Population

The Gond Society is at the heart of this event, celebrating the Krotons' defeat and the end of their oppression. The Gonds, led by Thara and Vana, pour the sulphuric acid onto the Dynatrope's power source, dissolving its tellurium core and marking their liberation. However, their victory is tempered by the acknowledgment of internal threats, particularly Eelek's faction. The Gonds' unity is tested as they transition from oppression to independence, with Thara asserting his claim to leadership and Vana reminding him of the challenges ahead. The organization's involvement is both triumphant and cautious, reflecting the fragile nature of their newfound freedom.

Representation Through collective action, as the Gonds unite to pour the acid and celebrate their victory. …
Power Dynamics Exercising authority over their own destiny for the first time, though internal divisions (e.g., Eelek's …
Impact The Gonds' victory over the Krotons marks a turning point in their institutional development, shifting …
Internal Dynamics The Gonds are divided between those who support Thara's leadership (e.g., Vana, Beta) and those …
To solidify their independence from the Krotons and assert their authority over their own future. To address internal threats, such as Eelek's faction, to ensure a stable transition to self-governance. Collective action, as seen in the Gonds' united effort to pour the acid and celebrate their victory. Leadership, with Thara and Vana articulating the organization's goals and challenges, and Beta advocating for scientific development. Symbolic gestures, such as the destruction of the Dynatrope, which marks the end of Kroton rule and the beginning of Gond independence.

Narrative Connections

How this event relates to others in the story

What led here 8

"Beta and Jamie are stopped from giving the acid to the Doctor. The Krotons are then defeated due to Zoe and Jamie spreading the acid on the Dynatrope."

Eelek’s Betrayal and the Crew’s Defiance
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"Zoe pours acid into the tank in the Dynatrope control room, and Jamie and Beta pour acid in the Learning Hall, so the Krotons are defeated with the doctor and Zoe escaping."

Doctor and Zoe sabotage Krotons' machine
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"Zoe pours acid into the tank in the Dynatrope control room, and Jamie and Beta pour acid in the Learning Hall, so the Krotons are defeated with the doctor and Zoe escaping."

Krotons dissolve from sabotage
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"Zoe pours acid into the tank in the Dynatrope control room, and Jamie and Beta pour acid in the Learning Hall, so the Krotons are defeated with the doctor and Zoe escaping."

Doctor and Zoe escape dissolving Dynatrope
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"Jamie, Beta, and other Gonds pouring acid on the Dynatrope directly leads to the Doctor explaining how the tellurium reacted with sulphuric acid."

Thara Claims Leadership Amid Lingering Threats
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"Jamie, Beta, and other Gonds pouring acid on the Dynatrope directly leads to the Doctor explaining how the tellurium reacted with sulphuric acid."

Beta’s Lost Mentorship Opportunity
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"After the Krotons are defeated, and the workings of their tellurium acid are explained by the Doctor, the doctor prepares to leave but is interrupted when Thara claims he will be the new leader."

Thara Claims Leadership Amid Lingering Threats
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"After the Krotons are defeated, and the workings of their tellurium acid are explained by the Doctor, the doctor prepares to leave but is interrupted when Thara claims he will be the new leader."

Beta’s Lost Mentorship Opportunity
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4
What this causes 4

"Jamie, Beta, and other Gonds pouring acid on the Dynatrope directly leads to the Doctor explaining how the tellurium reacted with sulphuric acid."

Thara Claims Leadership Amid Lingering Threats
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"Jamie, Beta, and other Gonds pouring acid on the Dynatrope directly leads to the Doctor explaining how the tellurium reacted with sulphuric acid."

Beta’s Lost Mentorship Opportunity
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"After the Krotons are defeated, and the workings of their tellurium acid are explained by the Doctor, the doctor prepares to leave but is interrupted when Thara claims he will be the new leader."

Thara Claims Leadership Amid Lingering Threats
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

"After the Krotons are defeated, and the workings of their tellurium acid are explained by the Doctor, the doctor prepares to leave but is interrupted when Thara claims he will be the new leader."

Beta’s Lost Mentorship Opportunity
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

Themes This Exemplifies

Thematic resonance and meaning

Key Dialogue

"ZOE: What made you think of pouring acid on it?"
"BETA: Well, we reckoned if the Doctor thought it worthwhile experimenting with a few drops, we'd see what a few gallons would do."
"DOCTOR: Well done!"
"VANA: It's finished now, isn't it?"
"THARA: Yes, it is finished. The end of the Krotons. Free at last!"
"VANA: We still have Eelek to deal with."
"THARA: That will be my pleasure. I shall take over from my father as leader of the Gonds, whatever Eelek thinks."