It Was a Dark and Spooky Night by Freya
Summary: In 1965, newlyweds Ian and Barbara move to Little Holecombe and make friends with the local historian, Andrew Verney. Chasing a cure for Ian's lycanthropy, they come across a disturbing ritual in 1986 that involves sacrificing a virgin. Unknown to Andrew's granddaughter, Tegan Jovanka, her grandfather considers her a suitable candidate. With the arrival of the Doctor who is traveling alone and determined to make amends with Tegan, things not only get spooky, but they certainly heat up between the Doctor and Tegan.
Rating: All Ages
Categories: Multi-Era
Characters: Omega
Genres: Action/Adventure, Alternate Universe, Drama, Het, Horror, Humor, Mystery, Standalone
Warnings: None
Challenges: None
Series: None
Published: 2023.05.20
Updated: 2023.05.21
Index
Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Chapter 2: Chapter 2
Chapter 3: Chapter 3
Chapter 1: Chapter 1
Author's Notes: Beta'd and Co-wrote by Chatgpt. I blame it for any errors. Missed grammar errors I blame on Grammarically.
In 1965, Ian Chesterton and Barbara Wright found themselves facing a life-altering event after Ian was bitten by a mysterious creature that could only be described as a werewolf. Determined to find a cure, the couple made the difficult decision to leave their jobs in London and relocate to the peaceful village of Little Holcombe.
The move to Little Holcombe proved to be a wise choice, as the village was known for its rich history and close-knit community. Ian and Barbara quickly settled into their new surroundings, hoping to uncover any information that could lead them to a remedy for Ian's condition.
As fate would have it, their path soon crossed with that of Andrew Verney, a local historian deeply fascinated by the history and folklore of Little Holcombe. Andrew's extensive knowledge and passion for the village's past made him an invaluable ally in their quest for a cure. Ian and Barbara soon became fast friends with Andrew, bonding over their shared determination to unravel the mysteries surrounding Ian's affliction.
Together, the trio embarked on a journey through ancient texts, local legends, and obscure historical records. They spent countless hours delving into the village archives, poring over dusty manuscripts, and consulting with elderly residents who held snippets of forgotten knowledge. Each discovery brought them closer to understanding the origins of Ian's curse and the potential remedies that lay hidden in the annals of history.
As their friendship deepened, Ian, Barbara, and Andrew formed an unbreakable bond, supporting each other through the challenges and setbacks they encountered along the way. Their shared passion for unraveling the supernatural mystery brought them closer, forging a unique camaraderie that went beyond the boundaries of their initial mission.
Meanwhile, the villagers of Little Holcombe began to notice the trio's relentless pursuit of knowledge and their dedication to Ian's recovery. The community rallied behind them, offering their assistance, sharing local anecdotes, and even contributing rare artifacts and books from their own collections. The village became a hub of collaboration, with residents actively engaging in the search for a cure, motivated by their affection for Ian, Barbara, and their new friend Andrew.
Months turned into years as the trio tirelessly continued their research, their perseverance is undeterred by setbacks or dead-ends. With each breakthrough, their hope for a solution grew stronger, and their efforts inspired the entire village to keep supporting them.
Their quest became a symbol of resilience and unity, with Little Holcombe gaining recognition as a place of unwavering support and a testament to the power of friendship. Ian, Barbara, and Andrew became local heroes, admired for their unwavering determination and their ability to bring the community together.
Finally, in 1986, the trio uncovered a long-forgotten ritual hidden within an ancient text, purported to have the power to break Ian's curse. With renewed hope, they prepared for the ceremony, gathering the support and well wishes of the entire village.
"It says here we'd need a blood sacrifice of a virgin during the ritual aged beyond her years," Barbara added horrified by the condition.
"No!" Ian shouted. "I'll not be a part of any such plot. There has to be another way."
"We've searched for years and it's the only sure way we can end your curse." Andrew Verney argued.
Ian's heart sank at the revelation of the requirement for a blood sacrifice. He couldn't fathom the idea of someone else suffering for his sake, especially an innocent young girl. He paced back and forth, deep in thought, while Barbara and Andrew exchanged concerned glances.
"I understand the urgency, Andrew, but there has to be another solution," Ian said, his voice filled with determination. "We can't resort to such extreme measures, especially when it involves an innocent life."
Barbara stepped forward, her voice filled with compassion. "Ian's right, Andrew. We've come too far to compromise our principles now. We'll find another way, even if it takes us longer."
Andrew sighed, realizing the weight of their words. "You're both right. I let my desperation cloud my judgment. We've worked together as a team all these years, and we'll continue to do so. We won't sacrifice our morals for a quick fix."
The trio sat down together, their faces illuminated by the flickering candlelight. They brainstormed ideas, reexamining their research, searching for any possible alternatives that could break the curse without endangering others.
That's when Verney's Tegan Jovanka came in carrying a tray of tea and crumpets. "Snacks?"
"Thank you, dear. It's after eleven my dear and you start your new job in a week. You better start getting used to a regular bed schedule. Are you excited?" Barbara asked Tegan.
"I am," Tegan's expression brightened with a smile. "To be flying about the globe again will certainly be a bit more exciting than helping Granddad with his treasure hunts. For a time there, I thought I was going to end up cloistered up here like a nun in a nunnery." Tegan said leaving the trio alone.
It only took a moment but Barbara saw a look grow across Verney's face that cause her great unease.
"Funny Tegan mentioning her being a nun in a nunnery," Verney said chewing on a crumpet.
"You're forgetting that it's highly unlikely that Tegan's a virgin," Barbara argued. "She's a modern girl after all."
"Perhaps in the manuscript virgin is a metaphor. Meaning a woman who is unwed like Tegan." Verney continued with his dark thoughts.
Ian and Barbara exchanged worried glances as Verney's words hung in the air. The idea that Tegan could be a potential candidate for the ritual weighed heavily on their minds. They couldn't bear the thought of putting their friend in harm's way, especially if it meant breaking her spirit or causing her any kind of suffering.
"We can't jump to conclusions, Andrew," Ian said firmly. "We need to consider all possibilities and not make assumptions based on vague interpretations. Tegan is our friend, and we won't subject her to any danger without solid evidence."
Barbara nodded in agreement, adding, "We need to prioritize Tegan's well-being above everything else. Let's not lose sight of the fact that we've dedicated ourselves to finding a solution that doesn't involve sacrificing innocent lives."
Verney sighed, acknowledging their concerns. "You're right, as always. I apologize for letting my thoughts wander to such dark places. We must remain steadfast in our commitment to our principles and continue our search for a different path."
As his friends bid him goodnight Verney couldn't help but continue to think about how easy it would be for his granddaughter to just suddenly disappear like she had in 1982.
While Andrew Verney continued to think of a way to fulfill the ritual requirements without bringing about the death of his beloved granddaughter, a haunting noise began to echo through the air outside of town.
Louder and louder the sound grew startling a nearby cow. As soon as a shape began to coalesce into a solid object the cow bounded away spooked by the appearance of what people in the town would recognize as a blue police box. It carried only one occupant. And that occupant was the Doctor, determined to retrieve Tegan as he had decided he had enough of running away from his true feelings he had for Tegan. And even if it had been only a month for him since they parted company, he was determined to tell her that he loved her and she wasn't going to just leave him fearing him.
The Doctor stepped out of the TARDIS, his eyes scanning the surroundings. He could sense that something was amiss, and he had a feeling that Tegan was somehow involved. Little did he know the predicament that his dear friend was facing.
As he walked through the village, the Doctor noticed a familiar face in the distance. It was Andrew Verney, the local historian and Tegan's grandfather who he didn't know had become a close friend to Ian and Barbara. The Doctor quickened his pace, eager to catch up with him and get some answers.
"Andrew!" the Doctor called out, waving his arm to get Verney's attention.
Verney turned around, surprised to see the Doctor approaching. "Doctor? What are you doing here?"
"I've come to find Tegan," the Doctor replied, a note of concern in his voice. "Something tells me she's in danger."
Verney hesitated for a moment, unsure of how much to reveal. He decided not to reveal anything to the Doctor. "She's inside asleep. She's starting a job next week and has to get in some good rest before she starts up again. You have no idea how hard it's been for her these past few years."
The Doctor's concern deepened at Verney's response. He could sense that something was amiss, but he respected Verney's words. Tegan had always been a strong and resilient companion, and the Doctor trusted that she would reach out to him if she needed help.
"Very well," the Doctor said, his tone slightly somber. "Please convey my best wishes to Tegan. I hope her new job brings her happiness and fulfillment."
Verney nodded, grateful for the Doctor's understanding. "I will, Doctor. Thank you for your concern. Tegan has been through a lot, and I believe this job will be a fresh start for her."
The Doctor bid Verney farewell and turned to leave, a mixture of relief and lingering worry in his eyes. He knew that Tegan was capable of taking care of herself, but he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the story. With a heavy heart, he made his way back to the TARDIS, determined to keep a watchful eye on his friend from a distance.Back to index
Chapter 2: Chapter 2
Author's Notes: Naughty Tegan bits and a misunderstanding. :D
"Very well," the Doctor said, his tone slightly somber. "Please convey my best wishes to Tegan. I hope her new job brings her happiness and fulfillment."
Verney nodded, grateful for the Doctor's understanding. "I will, Doctor. Thank you for your concern. Tegan has been through a lot, and I believe this job will be a fresh start for her."
The Doctor bid Verney farewell and turned to leave, a mixture of relief and lingering worry in his eyes. He knew that Tegan was capable of taking care of herself, but he couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to the story. With a heavy heart, he made his way back to the TARDIS, determined to keep a watchful eye on his friend from a distance.
Looking at the viewer from inside the TARDIS the Doctor noticed that one of the lights upstairs was going on and off as if to signal someone outside the home, but he couldn't make sense of the message. An SOS message from someone's bedroom. Moments after decoding the message, A figure appeared in front of the window and promptly swept the curtains aside that had obscured his view, leaving the windows themselves firmly closed with Tegan inside her bedroom in her grandfather's home. It was Tegan! She was dressed in a red silky and sexy nightie. Something that even he found enticing. Rassilon. help him, he swore under his breath as she began to strip off her top. And when that was gone, she bent over and started working her knickers off, every so slowly. That woman was deliberately teasing him! And for all to see!
It was now or never, the Doctor reasoned quickly. His hands deftly surfed over the controls, finding himself unable to stop himself from imagining it was Tegan's delicate skin they glided over. Surely, she'd lost her mind, and he was losing his mind when the TARDIS was unresponsive to his inputs. Unlike Tegan would be. For all he knew he was going to be drawn off course and die of some deadly disease before he could move the TARDIS closer to Tegan's home.
No, he couldn't think that way. There was definitely something wrong with Tegan! He had to save her from whatever was ailing her! One last try at the controls, and the TARDIS did something it hadn't done in ages. It landed exactly where he had set it to land. In Tegan's bedroom.
Rushing out of the TARDIS, the Doctor found that not everything was how he thought it should be. Instead, Tegan was laying in her bed fast asleep. The sounds generated by the TARDIS landing hadn't woken her up. Had she been drugged?
The Doctor approached Tegan's bed cautiously, his concern mounting as he observed her peaceful slumber. He examined her carefully, searching for any signs of distress or the effects of drugs. As he assessed her condition, he detected a faint scent in the air that was unfamiliar to him. It was a sweet, floral aroma that seemed out of place.
Gently reaching out, the Doctor placed his hand on Tegan's forehead, feeling for any abnormalities or signs of illness. Her skin felt slightly warm but within the normal range. He considered the possibilities—could she be under some sort of enchantment or experiencing a side effect from her recent encounter in Little Holcombe?
With a determined expression, the Doctor stepped back and began to investigate the room. He meticulously examined the surroundings, searching for any clues that could shed light on Tegan's current state. He checked her belongings, her dresser, and even the windows and doors, looking for any signs of tampering or external influence.
As he scrutinized the room, the Doctor's keen eyes caught sight of a small vial lying on the bedside table. It contained a liquid that matched the fragrance he had detected earlier. Realizing this could be a key piece of evidence, he carefully picked it up, examining it closely.
The vial appeared to be a sedative, designed to induce deep sleep. It was a potent blend of herbs and substances that could explain Tegan's prolonged slumber. The Doctor surmised that someone had administered this sedative to her, possibly with the intention of keeping her unconscious or under control.
His mind raced, contemplating who could have done this and why. Was there a malevolent force at work, or was there a more complex plot unfolding? Tegan's involvement in the supernatural events of Little Holcombe had certainly attracted attention, and it seemed someone was determined to keep her out of the picture.
The Doctor's resolve strengthened. He knew he had to wake Tegan and find a way to counteract the effects of the sedative. He carefully prepared an antidote from his own supplies, making sure it would counteract the sedative without causing any harm.
Slowly and methodically, he administered the antidote to Tegan, monitoring her vital signs and waiting for her to regain consciousness. Minutes ticked by, and finally, Tegan stirred, her eyes fluttering open.
Confusion clouded her expression as she looked up at the Doctor. "Doctor? What... What happened? Why did you wake me up in the middle of the night I might add."
"You were drugged with this!" The Doctor presented the offending vial to her.
"That's a sedative that I took before I went to bed. My Grandmum was an herbalist at one point and so I made some up earlier today."
"What about the show you put on in front of your window?"
"Oh Hell's Teeth, Doctor! I was doing a bit of Yoga before going to bed, and I didn't want to get my new nightie all dirty! I never took you for the voyeur type."
"I'm not!" said the Doctor defensively. "But what about the SOS signal?"
"SOS signal? Oh you mean the short in the light switch. It's been that way for years."
"And still your grandfather hasn't fixed it? That could start a fire!"
"He did try to fix it. That's how it ended up signaling an SOS. I was going to fix it tomorrow."
The Doctor let out a sigh of relief, realizing that his concerns had been unfounded. He felt a mix of embarrassment and gratitude that Tegan was safe and that there was a simple explanation for the events that had alarmed him.
"I apologize, Tegan," the Doctor admitted sheepishly. "I had misinterpreted the situation and jumped to conclusions. I'm glad to see you're alright."
Tegan chuckled softly. "No worries, Doctor. I understand why you were concerned. It's good to know you have my back. But next time, maybe ask for an explanation before landing the TARDIS in my bedroom."
The Doctor nodded, a small smile forming on his face. "You're right, Tegan. I'll remember that in the future. I'm just relieved to see that you're safe and sound."
Tegan sat up in bed, stretching her limbs. "So, what brings you here, Doctor? Besides the mistaken SOS signals and scandalous window displays, of course."
The Doctor's expression turned serious once again. "I've been investigating the events in Little Holcombe, and there's more to the story than we initially thought. I believe there's a darker force at play, and I wanted to make sure you were alright."
Tegan's face grew serious as well. "I've been feeling a strange presence, Doctor. It's like something is watching me, even in my dreams. I thought it was just my imagination, but now I'm not so sure."
The Doctor's concern deepened. "We need to get to the bottom of this, Tegan. Whatever is happening, we'll face it together. But first, we should leave this place. It's not safe here."
Tegan nodded in agreement. "Agreed, Doctor. Let's get out of here and find out what's really going on in Little Holcombe. I trust your instincts, and if you say there's something amiss, then there probably is."
The Doctor reached out a hand to help Tegan out of bed. She took it gratefully, and together they walked out of the bedroom and back to the TARDIS.
As they steppe.d inside the time machine, the Doctor set a new course, determined to uncover the truth behind the mysterious events in Little Holcombe and protect Tegan from whatever dangers lay ahead. Their journey was far from over, and the Doctor's unwavering determination to solve the puzzle and ensure Tegan's safety burned brighter than ever.
Back to index
Chapter 3: Chapter 3
Tegan was dressed in a small blue silk robe that barely covered her nightie but it was enough not to warrant any worry of accidentally becoming too revealing. With a twist of a knob, the Doctor ordered the TARDIS to generate possible sources for the strange energy in the small town.
As the TARDIS generated possible sources for the strange energy in Little Holcombe, the Doctor stood by Tegan's side, his gaze fixed on the swirling holographic projections that materialized before them. The projections displayed various locations in the town, highlighting areas of anomalous energy readings.
The Doctor examined each projection carefully, analyzing the data and searching for patterns or connections. It was clear that the energy signatures were not natural occurrences but were somehow tied to external influences.
"Interesting," the Doctor murmured, tapping his chin thoughtfully. "These energy readings seem to converge around the town's old abandoned factory. It's been empty for years, but it appears something or someone has reactivated it."
Tegan looked at the holographic projections, her brow furrowed with concern. "Do you think that's where the source of the strange occurrences is coming from, Doctor?"
"It's quite possible," the Doctor replied, his voice filled with a mix of curiosity and determination. "There's a strong likelihood that whatever is happening in Little Holcombe is centered around that factory. We'll need to investigate further to uncover the truth."
With a swift motion, the Doctor adjusted the TARDIS controls, setting the coordinates to take them directly to the old factory. He knew time was of the essence, and they couldn't afford to waste any more moments unraveling the mystery that gripped the town.
As the TARDIS materialized near the factory, the Doctor and Tegan stepped out, their senses alert and their minds focused on the task at hand. The factory loomed before them, it's darkened windows and decaying structure hinting at the secrets it held within.
"Stay close, Tegan," the Doctor advised, his voice filled with a mix of caution and protectiveness. "We don't know what awaits us inside."
Tegan nodded, her eyes fixed on the factory. She trusted the Doctor's guidance, knowing that he would do whatever it took to keep her safe.
Together, they entered the factory, their footsteps echoing through the empty halls. The air was heavy with otherworldly energy, tinged with a sense of foreboding. As they ventured deeper, they discovered signs of recent activity—a flickering light here, an overturned object there.
"It seems we're not alone," the Doctor whispered, his senses heightened as he continued to lead the way. "Someone has been here recently, and they're connected to the strange energy readings."
They followed the trail of clues, navigating the maze-like corridors of the factory. The air grew colder, and the energy around them intensified. They reached a large chamber where a dim light flickered ominously, casting eerie shadows on the walls.
In the center of the chamber stood a figure, cloaked in darkness. The Doctor and Tegan approached cautiously, their eyes fixed on the mysterious figure.
"Who are you?" the Doctor called out, his voice echoing through the chamber. "What is your connection to the energy disturbances in this town?"
The figure turned slowly, revealing a face hidden beneath a hood. It was a familiar face—a face the Doctor recognized all too well.
"Omega," the Doctor gasped, his voice a mix of surprise and realization. "What are you doing here? And what have you done to Little Holcombe?"
Omega smirked, his eyes gleaming with a mixture of arrogance and malice. "Doctor, my old friend. I've been waiting for this reunion. Little Holcombe is merely a piece in a much grander plan. But fear not, I'll gladly explain everything before I dispose of you."
Tegan's eyes widened in shock as she realized the gravity of the situation. The Doctor and Omega were locked in a confrontation that threatened not only their lives but the fate of
the entire town.
As the tension built, the Doctor's mind raced, searching for a way to outwit Omega and protect Tegan, as well as the innocent lives caught in the midst of their battle. Little did they know that the true nature of Omega's plan and the depth of the challenges they would face was yet to be revealed.
"And he's not alone." Tegan's heart sank as she saw her grandfather, Andrew Verney, stepping out of the shadows alongside Omega. Confusion and disbelief washed over her. How could her own grandfather be aligned with someone as dangerous and malevolent as Omega?
"Grandfather... What is this? Why are you with him?" Tegan's voice trembled with a mix of fear and betrayal.
Andrew Verney looked at Tegan with a cold, distant expression, his eyes devoid of the warmth and love she had always known. "Tegan, my dear, you were always so naive. You could never see the bigger picture, the power that awaits those who dare to grasp it."
Tegan's mind raced, trying to make sense of the situation. She had always thought her grandfather was a kind and gentle man, someone she could trust implicitly. But now, faced with this unexpected revelation, she felt a profound sense of loss and confusion.
The Doctor's gaze shifted between Omega and Andrew Verney, his mind working quickly to assess the situation. "Omega, what hold do you have over Andrew Verney? What has driven him to ally himself with you?"
Omega chuckled darkly, reveling in the Doctor's confusion. "Ah, Doctor, you always ask the right questions. But I'm afraid your friend here has willingly joined me. He seeks the power and knowledge that I can provide, the opportunity to reshape the universe according to his desires."
Tegan's voice trembled as she interjected, her eyes pleading with her grandfather. "Grandfather, please! This isn't you! You've always cared for me, protected me. What has happened to you?"
Andrew Verney's expression remained cold and distant as he replied, "Tegan, my dear, I have spent ages seeking a cure for my friend Ian Chesterton. He offers me the cure free and clear without harming you! Ian can be human again!" Verney argued.
"What's wrong with Chatterton? Cancer? Diabetes? Corns on his feet because he's stood in the same place too long?" The Doctor couldn't help himself. Mocking Ian Chesterton was too deeply ingrained in his psyche. Even in the man's absence.
"No, Doctor, he has lycanthropy. He's been infected with it since before his move here to Little Holcombe in 1966. He was attacked in a back alley after his wedding reception in London by another werewolf in 1965. He said it was Ringo Starr who bit him."
"If I didn't know better I think my grandfather has been drinking."
The Doctor's eyes narrowed as he assessed the situation. "Lycanthropy? Werewolves? That's quite an extraordinary claim, Andrew. Are you suggesting that Ian Chesterton has become a werewolf?"
Andrew Verney nodded, his expression unwavering. "Yes, Doctor. It's true. Ian has been living with this curse for decades, and I have been searching for a way to cure him. Omega has promised me the means to free him from this affliction."
Tegan's mind reeled with the revelation. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. Ian Chesterton, the man who had been a trusted friend and mentor to the Doctor, was now supposedly a werewolf.
"But why align yourself with Omega, Grandfather?" Tegan pleaded, her voice filled with a mix of desperation and disbelief. "Surely there must be another way to help Ian without resorting to such extreme measures."
Andrew Verney's gaze hardened, and he took a step closer to Tegan. "Tegan, my dear, you don't understand. I've seen the suffering Ian has endured, the pain he has kept hidden all these years. Omega's offer is a chance for him to be free, and to live a normal life again. I couldn't ignore that opportunity."
The Doctor's voice carried a mixture of concern and determination as he spoke. "Andrew, I understand your desire to help Ian, but Omega is a dangerous individual. His methods and motives are not to be trusted. There must be another way, a safer way to find a cure."
Omega interjected, a sly smile playing on his lips. "Ah, Doctor, always the voice of reason. But I'm afraid your pleas fall on deaf ears. Andrew Verney has made his choice, and he stands by it. Now, it's time for you to make yours."
The Doctor's mind raced, contemplating his next move. He knew he had to find a way to stop Omega and protect Tegan, but he also understood Andrew Verney's desperation to help his friend. There had to be a solution that didn't involve making deals with a malevolent being.
"Tegan, we can't let Omega succeed in his plans," the Doctor said firmly, his eyes locked with hers. "But we also can't abandon Andrew. We'll find another way to help Ian, to find a cure that doesn't involve risking innocent lives or falling into Omega's clutches."
Tegan nodded, determination shining in her eyes. "I trust you, Doctor. We'll stop Omega and find a way to save Ian without compromising our principles."
The Doctor smiled, grateful for Tegan's unwavering support. "Together, Tegan, we'll find a way. But first, we need to deal with Omega and put an end to his dangerous schemes."Back to index