Object

Fuse-Lighting Match

Used by the Doctor to ignite an improvised fuse in the lighthouse fuse panel during his confrontation with the Rutan scout operative.

5 appearances

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

5 moments

S15E4 · Horror of Fang Rock Part 4

Doctor and Skinsale claim Palmerdale's diamonds

The Doctor's match serves as both practical ignition tool and symbolic spark of insight, igniting the fuse that momentarily holds the Rutan at bay while also illuminating the path to the diamonds' crucial revelation.

Before: Stored in the Doctor's clothing or readily accessible as basic emergency equipment

After: Lit and spent, its flame guttering against the wind after serving its immediate purpose

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S15E4 · Horror of Fang Rock Part 4

Doctor and Leela fire the cannon

The Doctor strikes a match against the stonework to ignite the fuse, creating a brief, bright flare in the dim lamp room. The match is a necessary instrument in the chain reaction that momentarily halts the Rutan’s climb.

Before: Standard small wooden match in Doctor’s pocket

After: Burnt down to a stub after striking

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S15E4 · Horror of Fang Rock Part 4

Mother ship threat revealed in lamp room

The Doctor uses Skinsale’s match to ignite the fuse, creating a sharp flare sufficient to trigger the gunpowder explosion. The match’s fleeting flame symbolizes the precariousness of their improvised weapon amid the wind and movement within the lighthouse.

Before: Unlit, held in Skinsale’s possession

After: Burned out quickly, discarded after use

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S15E4 · Horror of Fang Rock Part 4

The Doctor and Leela spring their trap

The Doctor uses the match to light the fuse at the precise moment required, ensuring the explosives detonate as the Rutan enters the lamp room. The small flame's action sets off a chain reaction that shatters the alien scout.

Before: Unlit and held in the Doctor's hand, ready for quick use

After: Spent and discarded after igniting the fuse

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S15E4 · Horror of Fang Rock Part 4

Colonel avenged and diamond secured

The Doctor’s match, struck against the rough stonework, ignites the crude detonation fuse with a bright flare. Its brief flame burns against the wind rushing through the lighthouse’s interior, enabling Leela to light the primary explosive fuse that triggers the lamp room’s volatile chain of events.

Before: Unlit, gripped tightly in the Doctor’s hand.

After: Spent; its stub extinguished, its purpose fulfilled in initiating the explosion.

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