Walk The Earth: Doctor Who/Studio C [Book 2]

Paths Chosen and the Chances Lost

Paths Chosen and the Chances Lost

"There's three moments you can change. Three chances to save her." -Cyndi Shirk

It wasn't until he had spoken the final words—East it is, then—that Matt felt a definitive click around him, like something snapping into place. In a moment, everything that had seemed familiar made sense. Because he'd been here, in his dreams, several times before.

He got to his feet, heart pounding. The first dream had come true, exactly as he remembered it. What about the other two? The two that were far, far worse than this one?

"Matt?"

Jason's voice was filled with concern, and it took Matt a moment to answer.

"I dreamed that." When there was no response, he glanced back over his shoulder, meeting Jason's gaze.

"Look... Matt, get some sleep, all right? It hasn't been a good day and—"

"Jason, I'm serious," he snapped back. "That conversation we just had, I dreamed it, word for word." His friend didn't answer and he sucked in a breath. "This barn, I thought it was familiar as soon as we stepped foot in it, because I've seen it before. Even the cat was familiar!"

There was a long pause. "Okay," Jason said. "Provided that's true... what does it mean?"

Matt hesitated, before admitting, "I don't know."

"Does it affect anything that can't wait until tomorrow?"

Another pause. "I don't think so."

Jason eyed him sternly. "Then get some rest."

Matt felt his shoulders drop. He was right. In all likelihood, this would make more sense when he was rested enough to actually think coherently.

In actuality, as soon as he dropped off, Time itself settled around his choice like drying concrete.

The decision had been made. The first chance wasted without him even realizing.

Two more remained.

~~~

Mallory and Sally had stayed in Paris another day, working their way around the city to two more resistance groups. It was late into the night when they finally retired, yet Mallory woke early in the morning... and alone.

Not alone, exactly—thirteen people were holed up in the small apartment.

Thirteen was one fewer than there had been last night.

The first thing she noticed was the spare perception filter, that she had given to Sally, was now tied around the shoulder strap of her backpack. The second was the letter tucked underneath.

Mallory,

I know you don't approve of my plan to make my own journey. I wish I could stay and help you—but like it or not, it has to be done. You know deep down that it does, and we both know that's the only thing that will get you around the world, in the end. The Doctor might be the one to defeat the Master, but when it comes down to it, you'll be the one that saved the world. Just like with the Weeping Angels, I may well be the last little piece in a grand plan. I hope you understand that's why I've left.

Sally

P.S. I don't feel the perception filter is mine to take. Besides, I've got a feeling you'll need it more than I will.