Fabula
S9E21 · The Time Monster Part 1

Doctor demonstrates time sensor to Jo

The Doctor completes his compact time sensor, a device that detects disturbances in the time field. He explains its function to Jo, who struggles to articulate its purpose despite his earlier explanations. Their playful exchange reveals both the Doctor's patient teaching methods and Jo's growing comprehension of his scientific concepts. The device is positioned as a tool to counter the Master's temporal transmissions, marking a proactive step in thwarting his schemes. This moment underscores the Doctor's reliance on ingenuity and Jo's evolving role as an ally in his adventures. key_dialogue: [ DOCTOR: Extraordinary. I could have sworn I'd told you. It's a time sensor. JO: It's a Tardis sniffer-outer. DOCTOR: As you so rightly say, Bingo. ]

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

3

The Doctor finishes his time sensor device and explains its purpose to Jo. Jo struggles to understand the device's function.

curiosity to understanding ['UNIT HQ Laboratory']

The Doctor reveals that the time sensor can detect disturbances in a time field, specifically useful for locating a TARDIS or other time machines.

confusion to clarity

Jo nicknames the device a 'Tardis sniffer-outer', and the Doctor confirms its capability to detect any time machine.

clarity to anticipation

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

2

Frustrated curiosity blending with genuine effort to understand his concepts

Jo listens intently while the Doctor explains, her expression shifting from confusion to reluctant comprehension. She attempts to describe the device’s function but stumbles, revealing her growing but still uncertain grasp of its purpose.

Goals in this moment
  • Articulate an accurate description of the device to demonstrate her understanding
  • Support the Doctor’s preparations for the impending confrontation
Active beliefs
  • Her role requires precise comprehension of the Doctor’s gadgets
  • Loyalty to the Doctor justifies enduring his unconventional methods
Character traits
diligent slightly flustered adaptive engaged
Follow Jo Grant's journey

Amused confidence masking urgency to prepare Jo for imminent temporal threats

The Doctor stands focused over a newly completed device, his hands steady as he finalizes adjustments. He speaks with quiet precision, eyes twinkling as he guides Jo through his explanation, his posture radiating controlled enthusiasm.

Goals in this moment
  • Complete and test the time sensor before further temporal anomalies occur
  • Educate Jo sufficiently to assist in detecting the Master’s temporal transmissions
Active beliefs
  • Technical understanding and preparation are critical to counter existential threats
  • Investing in allies’ competence strengthens their capacity to act
Character traits
methodical patient playful instructive
Follow The Third …'s journey

Location Details

Places and their significance in this event

1
UNIT Temporal Research Facility

The high-security UNIT Scientific Laboratory serves as a hive of controlled activity, where the Doctor and Jo work amid humming consoles and geologic reports. The lab’s sterile yet urgent atmosphere provides the setting where theoretical science meets practical countermeasures against temporal threats.

Atmosphere Focused and methodical with an undercurrent of quiet urgency
Function Intellectual workshop for devising countermeasures against temporal anomalies
Symbolism Symbolizes humanity’s defense against forces that transcend natural laws
Access Restricted to authorized personnel only, particularly those working on temporal research
Geologic reports and time detector data scattered across the lab Red emergency lighting highlights the workspace during heightened alert readiness

Narrative Connections

How this event relates to others in the story

What this causes 1

"The Doctor’s explanation that the time sensor detects disturbances in the time field leads Jo and him to realize another TARDIS is nearby, culminating in the discovery of the Master’s temporal machine and its location at Wootton."

False detection shifts to dread of another TARDIS
S9E21 · The Time Monster Part 1