It Was a Dark and Spooky Night
Chapter or Story
- All Ages
- None
- Action/Adventure, Alternate Universe, Drama, Het, Horror, Humor, Mystery, Standalone
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.