Fabula
S6E22 · The Krotons Part 4

Beta’s Lost Mentorship Opportunity

In the aftermath of the Krotons’ defeat, Beta—eager to capitalize on the Doctor’s scientific expertise—seeks his guidance to advance Gond science. The Doctor, however, is already departing with his companions, leaving Beta to confront the irreversible loss of a rare mentorship opportunity. Thara’s abrupt announcement of the TARDIS’s departure forces Beta to grapple with the Gonds’ isolation and the Doctor’s unintended but consequential absence. The moment underscores the fragility of progress and the Gonds’ reliance on external wisdom, while also highlighting Beta’s personal frustration at being left behind without answers. The scene pivots from victory over the Krotons to the lingering challenge of self-sufficiency, setting up the Gonds’ future struggle to develop their own scientific independence.

Plot Beats

The narrative micro-steps within this event

1

Beta asks the Doctor for help to develop the Gonds' science, but Thara reveals that the Doctor, Zoe, and Jamie have already left, causing Beta to lament the missed opportunity for guidance, with Thara responding that they will have to find their own answers now.

hopeful to accepting

Who Was There

Characters present in this moment

6

Disappointed and slightly anxious, grappling with the realization that the Gonds must develop their own scientific capabilities without the Doctor’s direct involvement. His frustration is tempered by a determination to rise to the challenge, but the weight of uncertainty is palpable.

Beta stands in the Learning Hall, his expression a mix of frustration and longing as he watches the Doctor and his companions prepare to leave. He had hoped to seek the Doctor’s scientific guidance to advance Gond science, but the abrupt departure leaves him without answers. His posture is tense, and his voice carries a note of disappointment as he realizes the Gonds must now find their own way. Physically, he is rooted in the moment of transition, symbolizing the Gonds’ reliance on external wisdom and the challenge of self-sufficiency.

Goals in this moment
  • Secure the Doctor’s guidance to accelerate the Gonds’ scientific development.
  • Adapt to the sudden absence of external mentorship and find alternative ways to advance Gond science.
Active beliefs
  • The Doctor’s knowledge could have significantly shortened the Gonds’ path to scientific independence.
  • The Gonds must now rely on their own ingenuity and collective effort to achieve their goals.
Character traits
Frustrated Eager to learn Resourceful Slightly disillusioned
Follow Beta Dalek's journey
Thara
primary

Resolute and forward-looking, with a mix of triumph and cautious optimism about the Gonds' future. His determination masks any lingering doubt about their ability to govern themselves without external guidance.

Thara stands at the base of the cliff in the wastelands, watching the TARDIS dematerialize. He asserts his leadership over the Gonds, declaring his intent to take over from his father, Selris, and address the lingering threat of Eelek. His tone is resolute, signaling a shift in Gond governance and a focus on self-sufficiency. Physically, he is positioned as the focal point of the Gonds' future, embodying their transition from oppression to independence.

Goals in this moment
  • Establish his leadership over the Gonds to replace his father and counter Eelek’s influence.
  • Ensure the Gonds transition smoothly into self-governance and scientific independence.
Active beliefs
  • The Gonds must rely on their own ingenuity and resources to avoid future subjugation.
  • Leadership requires decisive action, even in the face of internal dissent or external threats.
Character traits
Determined Assertive Strategic Protective of Gond sovereignty
Follow Thara's journey

Reserved and slightly detached, with a sense of accomplishment. His emotional state is one of quiet satisfaction, tempered by his characteristic impatience to move on to the next challenge. There is no lingering sentimentality, only a focus on the practicalities of departure.

The Doctor, having just escaped the Krotons’ machine, stands with Zoe and Jamie as they prepare to depart. He avoids prolonged goodbyes, his demeanor reserved but satisfied with the outcome. His focus is on leaving swiftly, reflecting his role as a transient force of change who moves on once his mission is complete. Physically, he is positioned near the TARDIS, his attention already shifting to the next adventure. His dialogue is minimal, emphasizing his preference for action over sentimentality.

Goals in this moment
  • Ensure the group’s safe and swift departure from the planet.
  • Avoid emotional entanglements or prolonged goodbyes, maintaining his role as a transient ally.
Active beliefs
  • The Gonds have demonstrated their capability to govern and defend themselves, making his continued presence unnecessary.
  • His role is to inspire and guide, not to linger and micromanage.
Character traits
Reserved Decisive Avoidant of emotional farewells Satisfied with the mission’s success
Follow The Second …'s journey
Supporting 3

Relieved and content, with a sense of accomplishment. His emotional state is one of quiet satisfaction, having played a key role in the Krotons’ defeat. He is ready to move on to the next adventure but remains attentive to the Doctor’s cues.

Jamie stands with the Doctor and Zoe, ready to depart. His role in this moment is supportive, reflecting his loyalty to the group. He does not speak during the exchange between Beta and Thara, but his presence is a reminder of the companionship and teamwork that defined their mission. Physically, he is positioned near the Doctor, his posture relaxed but alert, ready to follow the Doctor’s lead.

Goals in this moment
  • Ensure the group’s safe departure and follow the Doctor’s lead.
  • Support the Doctor and Zoe in any final actions or discussions before leaving.
Active beliefs
  • The Gonds have proven their capability to stand on their own, making the group’s departure justified.
  • His role is to support the Doctor and Zoe, regardless of the circumstances.
Character traits
Loyal Supportive Alert Ready for action
Follow Jamie McCrimmon's journey

Satisfied and slightly reflective, having witnessed the Krotons' defeat and the Gonds' victory. Her emotional state is calm, with a subtle undercurrent of curiosity about what lies ahead for the Gonds now that the Doctor is leaving.

Zoe, having just escaped the Krotons' machine, stands with the Doctor and Jamie as they prepare to leave. She participates in the group’s discussion about the acid’s effectiveness but remains largely silent during the exchange between Beta and Thara. Her presence is observational, reflecting her role as a companion who absorbs information and adapts to new situations. Physically, she is poised to depart with the Doctor, her curiosity about the acid’s mechanism already satisfied by his explanation.

Goals in this moment
  • Ensure the group’s safe departure from the planet.
  • Absorb any final scientific insights or lessons from the Doctor before leaving.
Active beliefs
  • The Gonds’ success is a testament to their resourcefulness and the Doctor’s guidance.
  • Leaving them to their own devices is a necessary step toward their independence.
Character traits
Observant Adaptive Supportive of the group’s dynamic Quick to process scientific explanations
Follow Zoe Heriot's journey
Vana
secondary

Relieved but cautious, with a sense of quiet determination. Her emotional state is one of cautious optimism, tempered by the awareness of lingering threats like Eelek. She is content with the Krotons’ defeat but remains vigilant about the Gonds’ future.

Vana is present in the Learning Hall but does not speak during this specific exchange. Her role in this moment is observational, reflecting her supportive yet cautious nature. She stands near Thara, her presence a quiet reminder of the Gonds’ unity and the challenges they face. Physically, she is positioned as a stable figure amid the transition, her demeanor calm but attentive to the unfolding dynamics between Thara, Beta, and the departing Doctor.

Goals in this moment
  • Support Thara’s leadership and the Gonds’ transition to self-governance.
  • Ensure the Gonds remain united and focused on their scientific and political independence.
Active beliefs
  • The Gonds’ victory over the Krotons is a significant step, but their work is far from over.
  • Unity and caution are essential to navigating the challenges ahead.
Character traits
Supportive Cautious Observant Loyal to the Gond cause
Follow Vana's journey

Objects Involved

Significant items in this scene

3
Gonds' Sulphuric Acid Sabotage Weapon

The Gonds’ sulphuric acid, though not physically present in this moment, is the symbolic and functional catalyst for the Krotons’ defeat. Its use in dissolving the Dynatrope’s tellurium core is referenced as a turning point, highlighting the Gonds’ resourcefulness and the Doctor’s scientific insight. The acid’s absence in this scene underscores its role as a tool of liberation, now replaced by the challenge of self-sufficiency. Its legacy lingers as a reminder of the Gonds’ capability to innovate and adapt.

Before: The acid was used in large quantities to …
After: The acid’s physical presence is no longer relevant, …
Before: The acid was used in large quantities to dissolve the Krotons’ machine, leaving the Gonds with a depleted but effective resource. Its immediate functional role in the scene has concluded, but its impact on the Gonds’ confidence and independence remains.
After: The acid’s physical presence is no longer relevant, but its symbolic significance as a tool of rebellion and scientific achievement endures. The Gonds now face the task of replicating and advancing their chemical knowledge without external guidance.
Gonds' Sulphuric Acid Urns (Beta and Jamie's Urn)

The Gonds’ sulphuric acid urns, though not physically present in this scene, are referenced as the vessels that delivered the acid used to destroy the Krotons’ machine. Their role in the event is symbolic, representing the Gonds’ collective effort and ingenuity. The urns’ absence highlights the transition from active rebellion to the quieter, more introspective challenge of self-sufficiency. Their legacy is one of empowerment, but also of the responsibility that comes with freedom.

Before: The urns were used to pour acid onto …
After: The urns are no longer needed for the …
Before: The urns were used to pour acid onto the Krotons’ machine, fulfilling their functional role in the rebellion. Their immediate use has concluded, but their impact on the Gonds’ confidence and capability remains.
After: The urns are no longer needed for the immediate threat, but their existence serves as a reminder of the Gonds’ ability to innovate and act decisively. The challenge now is to build on this foundation without external support.
Krotons' Machine (Including Structural Pillars)

The Krotons’ machine, now destroyed by the sulphuric acid, serves as a silent but potent symbol of the Gonds’ victory and the Doctor’s departure. Its absence in this scene is a stark reminder of the conflict’s resolution and the new challenges the Gonds face. The machine’s destruction marks the end of one era and the beginning of another, where the Gonds must forge their own path without the threat of Kroton domination or the Doctor’s direct intervention.

Before: The machine was fully operational until the acid …
After: The machine is completely destroyed, leaving no trace …
Before: The machine was fully operational until the acid was poured onto its tellurium core, causing it to dissolve and neutralize the Krotons’ power source. Its destruction was the culmination of the Gonds’ and the Doctor’s efforts.
After: The machine is completely destroyed, leaving no trace of the Krotons’ influence. Its absence creates a void that the Gonds must fill with their own scientific and political initiatives.

Location Details

Places and their significance in this event

3
Dynatrope Interior (Control Room)

The Dynatrope Interior, though not physically present in this scene, looms as a silent but potent symbol of the Krotons’ defeat and the Gonds’ victory. Its absence is a reminder of the conflict’s resolution and the new challenges the Gonds face. The location’s legacy is one of oppression and control, but its destruction has created a void that the Gonds must fill with their own scientific and political initiatives. The mood associated with this location is one of relief and cautious optimism, tempered by the awareness of the work that lies ahead.

Atmosphere Absent but symbolically present as a reminder of the Krotons’ defeat and the Gonds’ newfound …
Function Symbolic representation of the Krotons’ power and the Gonds’ rebellion. Its destruction marks the end …
Symbolism Embodies the struggle between oppression and freedom, as well as the Gonds’ capability to overcome …
Access No longer accessible, as the machine has been destroyed. The location is now a part …
The memory of the Krotons’ crystalline forms and the hum of their machinery. The lingering sense of danger and the relief that comes with victory. The void left by the machine’s destruction, symbolizing the Gonds’ newfound independence.
Learning Hall (Gond Ceremonial & Educational Chamber)

The Learning Hall, now in ruins, serves as the backdrop for the Gonds’ transition from rebellion to self-governance. Its collapsed roof and dust-filled atmosphere symbolize the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. The hall, once a site of Kroton-controlled education, is now a testament to the Gonds’ defiance and their newfound freedom. The location’s mood is one of introspection and cautious optimism, as the Gonds grapple with the challenges of independence.

Atmosphere Tension-filled with a mix of relief and uncertainty. The air is thick with dust and …
Function Symbolic and practical meeting place for the Gonds to reflect on their victory and plan …
Symbolism Represents the Gonds’ journey from oppression to freedom, as well as the fragility of their …
Access Open to all Gonds, but the unstable structure suggests limited accessibility and a need for …
Collapsed roof and debris from the battle with the Krotons. Dust-filled air, symbolizing the remnants of the past and the uncertainty of the future. The presence of the Gonds, clustered together as they discuss their next steps.
Outside the Dynatrope

The wastelands at the base of the cliff serve as the departure point for the Doctor and his companions. The rugged terrain and poison gas jets add a sense of urgency and danger, even in the aftermath of the Krotons’ defeat. The location’s mood is one of transition, as the Doctor and his companions prepare to leave the Gonds to their own devices. The wastelands symbolize the challenges that lie ahead for the Gonds, as well as the freedom they have fought for.

Atmosphere Tense and transitional, with a mix of relief and uncertainty. The wastelands are a reminder …
Function Departure point for the Doctor and his companions, marking the end of their involvement in …
Symbolism Represents the Gonds’ journey from oppression to freedom, as well as the transient nature of …
Access Open to all, but the rugged terrain and lingering dangers suggest a need for caution …
Rugged cliffside terrain, symbolizing the challenges the Gonds have faced and will continue to face. Poison gas jets, a reminder of the Krotons’ lingering threat and the dangers of the wastelands. The TARDIS, poised for departure, symbolizing the Doctor’s role as a transient force of change.

Organizations Involved

Institutional presence and influence

2
Krotons

The Krotons, though defeated, cast a long shadow over this event. Their absence is a constant reminder of the Gonds’ victory, but also of the challenges they face in building a future without the threat of external domination. The organization’s influence is felt through the legacy of their oppression and the void left by their destruction. The Krotons’ power dynamic is one of irrelevance in the present moment, but their historical impact continues to shape the Gonds’ aspirations and fears.

Representation Through the absence of their physical presence and the symbolic weight of their defeat. The …
Power Dynamics The Krotons’ power is entirely neutralized, but their legacy looms large as the Gonds grapple …
Impact The Krotons’ defeat has freed the Gonds from immediate threat, but their legacy will continue …
Internal Dynamics None, as the Krotons are no longer an active organization. Their internal dynamics are irrelevant …
None, as the Krotons are defeated and their organization is dissolved. Their goals are irrelevant in the present context. Serve as a reminder of the dangers of external domination and the importance of self-sufficiency for the Gonds. The memory of their oppression, which fuels the Gonds’ determination to build a better future. The void left by their destruction, which creates both opportunities and challenges for the Gonds.
Gond Indigenous Population

The Gond Society is at a pivotal moment in this event, transitioning from rebellion against the Krotons to the challenge of self-governance and scientific independence. The organization is represented through Thara’s assertion of leadership, Beta’s frustration at the Doctor’s departure, and Vana’s cautious optimism. The Gonds’ collective identity is shaped by their victory over the Krotons, but also by the uncertainty of their future. The organization’s goals are now focused on unity, scientific advancement, and political stability, all of which must be achieved without external guidance.

Representation Through the actions and dialogue of key members like Thara, Beta, and Vana, as well …
Power Dynamics The Gonds are now exercising authority over their own destiny, but they must navigate internal …
Impact The Gonds’ transition to self-governance will shape their future as a society, determining whether they …
Internal Dynamics The organization is grappling with internal tensions, particularly the rivalry between Thara and Eelek for …
Establish a stable leadership structure under Thara’s guidance to replace Selris and counter Eelek’s influence. Develop scientific independence by building on the knowledge gained from the Doctor’s brief involvement and the Gonds’ own ingenuity. Collective action and unity among the Gonds, as demonstrated by their victory over the Krotons. The legacy of the Doctor’s guidance, which serves as a foundation for their scientific and political aspirations.

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."

Gonds Destroy Krotons' Power Source
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

"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."

Gonds Destroy Krotons' Power Source
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
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."

Gonds Destroy Krotons' Power Source
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

"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."

Gonds Destroy Krotons' Power Source
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

Themes This Exemplifies

Thematic resonance and meaning

Part of Larger Arcs

Key Dialogue

"BETA: And we can develop our own science. The Doctor can help. Doctor?"
"THARA: They've gone."
"BETA: But I wanted to ask his advice. There's so much to be done."
"THARA: We'll have to find our own answers now, Beta."