Collins' Second Key

A single iron key with a worn bow and long stem, kept on a chain in Collins' coat pocket. Its edges show signs of frequent use, the wards slightly rounded from repeated turning in locks. Collins produces it with urgency, emphasizing secrecy—'He didn't know there was a second key'—to bypass Sutekh’s locked wing. The Doctor handles it with casual disregard, contrasting its role in avoiding detection with his quip about 'mummy picklocks,' which belittles Sutekh’s threat even as danger stirs.

4 appearances

Purpose

To unlock secured compartments or doors, specifically demonstrated when the Doctor uses it to open the limousine's boot.

Significance

This key serves as a plot device revealing Collins' preparedness for evacuations or clandestine operations. The Doctor's possession implies Collins either entrusted it to him or left it in the limousine, suggesting strategic planning has outpaced immediate personnel. Its mundane presentation contrasts with its role in accessing hidden spaces connected to Harrison Chase's secrets.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

4 moments

S13E9 · Pyramids of Mars Part 1

Discovery in the Locked Wing

Collins produces the second key from his coat pocket to emphasize the secrecy and urgency of their situation. The key symbolizes the hidden mechanisms of Sutekh’s confinement within Stargrove Manor, with Collins’ possession of it representing his limited defiance against Namin.

Before: Secured on a chain in Collins’ coat pocket, known only to him.

After: Unknown, but Collins escapes with it still in his possession.

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S13E9 · Pyramids of Mars Part 1

Collins warns of the Egyptian before leaving unnoticed

The iron second key is the linchpin of Collins’ urgent stratagem, allowing covert passage past the wing’s primary lock set by Namin. Its worn bow and chain signify long disuse and custom authority, functioning as a narrative device to outmaneuver the Egyptian’s dominance within the manor.

Before: Concealed on Collins’ person, known only to a select few, kept from Namin’s knowledge

After: Temporarily relinquished to guide the Doctor and Sarah to safety, hinting at deeper hidden access

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S13E23 · The Seeds of Doom Part 3

Trapped and ambushed in Antarctic limousine

This iron key is dangling from the chauffeur’s coat during the struggle and is later mentioned by Sarah as something to secure access. It appears as a minor element in the chaotic sequence but does not play an active role in resolving the event.

Before: In the chauffeur’s coat pocket.

After: Presumably remains with the chauffeur after he is knocked unconscious.

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S13E23 · The Seeds of Doom Part 3

Doctor and Sarah discover limo’s hidden owner

The chauffeur’s key, hanging from a chain in his coat pocket, is casually used by the Doctor during the limousine search. Though not explicitly utilized on-screen, its presence suggests potential access to locked compartments or vehicles, reflecting the Doctor’s instinct to secure means of mobility or information under duress.

Before: Secured in the chauffeur’s coat pocket, accessible only to him.

After: Likely retained by the Doctor as a tool, though not actively used within this event segment.

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