The screen is dark and we hear the cultured voice of DR MOON.
MOON
(V.O.) Close your eyes. Tell me what you see.
The picture brightens to show a library the size of a city with book-lined shelves everywhere. A young GIRL floats above it.
GIRL
The Library. (she looks down as she floats over spires)
MOON
(V.O.) Open your eyes again. (the GIRL does) Where are you now?
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL is sitting on a chair in a brightly lit room. DR MOON and her FATHER are sitting across from her.
GIRL
My living room, Dr Moon.
MOON
When you close your eyes...
GIRL
I go to the library.
DR MOON is taking notes while the FATHER watches anxiously.
MOON
Go to the library now.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The GIRL closes her eyes and she descends into a round reading room with light streaming in from the open dome above.
MOON
(V.O.) Are you back there?
GIRL
Yes.
MOON
(V.O.) The same part?
GIRL
No, it's always different. The library goes on forever.
MOON
(V.O.) How do you move around?
GIRL
By wishing.
There is a banging on the door behind her and she whips her head around.
INT. LIVING ROOM
MOON
What's wrong?
GIRL
Something's here. Someone's got in. No one's supposed to get in!
FATHER
She's never mentioned anyone else. She's always been alone.
GIRL
Someone's in my library!
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The banging on the door continues.
INT. LIVING ROOM
GIRL
No, no, please! Not so loud! It's too loud!
MOON
Listen to me. The library is in your mind.
GIRL
I know it's in my mind. (her hands fidget with her clothes) But something's got inside!
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The doors burst open and the DOCTOR and DONNA rush through and close the doors behind them. The DOCTOR jams a book through the handles. They take a deep breath and turn, seeing the GIRL.
DOCTOR
Oh, hello. Sorry to burst in on you like this. Okay if we stop here for a bit?
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL opens her eyes in shock.
David Tennant
Catherine Tate
DOCTOR WHO
"SILENCE in the LIBRARY"
by Steven Moffat
Producer
Phil Collinson
Director
Euros Lyn
INT. TARDIS
DOCTOR
Books! People never really stop loving books. (grabs coat and heads for the door)
INT. LIBRARY, RECEPTION
The TARDIS has materialized in a large hall. There is light streaming in from windows above. It is empty of people.
DOCTOR
51st century-(strides across room) By now you've got holovids, direct-to-brain downloads, fiction mist. But you need the smell. The smell of books, Donna. Deep breath. (opens door)
EXT LIBRARY, BALCONY
They enter a large, columned area and walk down steps to a balcony that overlooks the rest of the library.
DOCTOR
The Library. So big, it doesn't need a name-just a great big the.
DONNA
It's like a city!
DOCTOR
It's a world-literally a world. The whole core of the planet is the index computer-the biggest hard drive ever. And up here, every book ever written. Jeffrey Archer, Bridget Jones, Monty Python's Big Red Book. Brand new editions specially printed. We're near the equator, so... (licks finger and holds it up in the air like testing the wind) This must be biographies! I love biographies.
DONNA
Yeah, very "you". Always a death at the end.
DOCTOR
You need a good death. Without death there'd only be comedies. Dying gives us size. (DONNA lifts a book and he snatches it from her) Oi! Spoilers!
DONNA
What?
DOCTOR
(tosses book aside) These books are from your future. You don't want to read ahead and spoil the surprises. Like peeking at the end.
DONNA
Isn't travelling with you one big spoiler?
DOCTOR
I try to keep you away from major plot developments...which, to be honest, I seem very bad at, cause you know what? This is the biggest library in the universe...so where is everyone. It's silent. (takes out sonic screwdriver and goes to information kiosk)
DONNA
The Library?
DOCTOR
The planet. The whole planet.
DONNA
Well...maybe it's a Sunday.
DOCTOR
No. I never land on Sundays. Sundays are boring.
DONNA
Well, maybe everyone's really, really quiet.
DOCTOR
Yeah, maybe. But they'd still show up on the system.
DONNA
Doctor, why are we here? Really why?
DOCTOR
Oh, you know, just...passing.
DONNA
No. Seriously, it was, "Oh, let's hit the beach" then suddenly we're in a library. Why?
DOCTOR
Now that's interesting.
DONNA
What?
DOCTOR
Scanning for lifeforms. If I do a scan for your basic humanoids-you know, your book readers, few limbs and a face-apart from us, I get nothing. Zippo. Nada. See? Nobody home. But if I widen the parameters to any kind of life... (taps keyboard and the count increases until it reads 'Error') A million million. It gives up after that. A million million.
DONNA
But there's nothing here.
DOCTOR
And not a sound. A million million lifeforms...and silence in The Library.
DONNA
But there's no one here. There's just books. I mean, it's not the books, is it? I mean, it can't be the books, can it? I mean, books can't be alive.
They look down at the books in front of them and the DOCTOR tentatively reaches out a hand, as does DONNA.
VOICE
Welcome!
They both step back, startled.
DONNA
(points behind them) That came from in there.
DOCTOR
Yeah.
They head back the way they came.
INT. LIBRARY, RECEPTION
As they enter, there is a clicking and whirring sound as a statue by the information booth slowly turns to face them. It bears a female human face.
NODE
I am Courtesy Node 710/Aqua. Please enjoy The Library and respect the personal access codes of all you fellow readers regardless of species or hygiene taboo.
DONNA
That face, it looks real.
DOCTOR
Yeah. Don't worry about it.
DONNA
A statue with a real face, though? It's a hologram or something, isn't it?
DOCTOR
No, but really, it's...fine.
NODE
Additional. There follows a brief message from the Head Librarian for urgent attention. It has been edited for tone and content by the Felman Lux Automated Decency Filter. Message follows. "Run. For God's sake, run. Nowhere is safe. The Library has sealed itself. We can't-Oh, they're here. Argh, slarg, snick." Message ends. Please switch off your mobile comm. units for the comfort of other readers.
DOCTOR
So that's why we're here? Any other messages, same date stamp?
NODE
One additional message. This message carries a Felman Lux Coherency Warning of 5-0-11.
DOCTOR
Yeah, yeah. Fine, fine, fine. Just play it.
NODE
Message follows. "Count the shadows. For God's sake, remember-if you want to live, count the shadows." Message ends.
The DOCTOR looks behind him at the empty room.
DOCTOR
Donna...
DONNA
Yeah?
DOCTOR
Stay out of the shadows. (heads to a different door)
DONNA
Why? What's in the shadows? (follows)
INT. LIBRARY, STACKS
The DOCTOR and DONNA walk through a room lined high with bookshelves and are dwarfed by them.
DONNA
So...we weren't just in the neighbourhood.
DOCTOR
Yeah, I kind of sort of lied a bit. I got a message on the psychic paper. (holds it up for DONNA to read. "The Library. Come as soon as you can. X") What do you think? Cry for help?
DONNA
(takes it) Cry for help...with a kiss.
DOCTOR
Oh, we've done all that. (takes it back)
DONNA
Who's it from?
DOCTOR
No idea.
DONNA
So why did we come here? Why did you...
DOCTOR
Donna.
The lights behind them switch off systematically one-by-one, heading their way.
DONNA
What's happening?
DOCTOR
Run!
They run down the corridor and stop when they see a door. It won't open.
DONNA
What, is it locked?
DOCTOR
Jammed! The wood's warped!
DONNA
Well, sonic it! Use the thingy!
DOCTOR
I can't! It's wood!
DONNA
What, and it doesn't do wood?
DOCTOR
Hang on, hang on, hang on. (takes out sonic screwdriver) If I can vibrate the molecules, fry the bindings, I can shatterline the interface...
DONNA
Oh, get out of the way! (kicks open the door)
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
DONNA holds the door while the DOCTOR grabs a book to fit through the handles. They both turn.
DOCTOR
Oh, hello. Sorry to burst in on you like this. Okay if we stop here for a bit?
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL opens her eyes in shock.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
A small, levitating metal sphere drops to the floor.
DONNA
What is it? (they approach it)
DOCTOR
Security camera. (kicks it gently) Switched itself off. (picks it up)
INT. LIVING ROOM
GIRL
They were in my library. How can they be in my library?
MOON
Who were they?
A whirring sound is heard and the GIRL grips her head in pain.
GIRL
What's that noise?
FATHER
What noise?
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The DOCTOR is using the sonic screwdriver on the camera.
DOCTOR
Nice door skills, Donna.
DONNA
Well, you know, boyfriends. Sometimes you need the element of surprise. What was that? What was after us? I mean, did we just run away from a power cut?
DOCTOR
Possibly.
DONNA
(looks up at skylight) Are we safe here?
DOCTOR
Of course we're safe. There's a little shop. (a flap opens on the camera) Gotcha!
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL falls to the floor and whimpers. DR MOON and her FATHER go to her.
GIRL
No, stop it! (cries) No! No!
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
A message scrolls across a section of the sphere. It reads, "No, stop it"
DOCTOR
Oh, I'm sorry. I really am. (sets it down) I'm sorry. I'm so sorry. (to DONNA) It's alive.
DONNA
You said it was a security camera.
DOCTOR
(stands) It is. It's an alive one. (puts away sonic screwdriver)
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL is lying on the floor with her FATHER and DR MOON beside her.
MOON
Can you hear me? Are you all right?
GIRL
Others are coming.
MOON
Who's coming? Who are the others?
GIRL
The Library is breached. Others are coming.
MOON
What others?
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The security camera scrolls, "Others are coming".
DONNA
What does it mean, "others"? (sees a NODE and walks over) Excuse me, what does it mean, "others"?
DOCTOR
That's barely more than a Speak-Your-Weight machine. It can't help you.
DONNA
So why's it got a face?
NODE
(bears a male face) This flesh aspect was donated by Mark Chambers on the occasion of his death.
DONNA
(stunned, turns to DOCTOR) It's a real face!
NODE
It has been actualised individually for you from the many facial aspects saved to our extensive flesh banks. Please enjoy.
DONNA
It chose me a dead face it thought I'd like? That statue's got a dead person's face on it!
DOCTOR
It's the 51st century. That's basically like donating a park bench.
DONNA
It's donating a face! (backs away)
DOCTOR
Oh, wait! No! (grabs her around the waist)
DONNA
Hands! (slaps his arms as he releases her)
DOCTOR
The shadow. Look.
DONNA
What about it?
DOCTOR
"Count the shadows."
DONNA
One. There, I counted it. One shadow.
DOCTOR
Yeah, but what's casting it?
They look about and see nothing that could possibly cast the shadow.
DOCTOR
Oh! I'm thick! Look at me; I'm old and thick! Head's too full of stuff, I need a bigger head! (smacks head)
The light in the corridor begins to buzz and dim.
DONNA
The power must be going.
DOCTOR
This place runs on fission cells. They'll outburn the sun.
DONNA
Then why is it dark?
DOCTOR
It's not dark.
DONNA turns her head and reaches for the DOCTOR'S arm.
DONNA
That shadow-it's gone.
DOCTOR
We need to get back to the TARDIS.
DONNA
Why?
DOCTOR
Because that shadow hasn't gone, it's moved.
NODE
Reminder: The Library has been breached. Others are coming. (keeps repeating)
There is a loud blast and a bright light. Six figures in spacesuits enter through the breached door. The first stops in front of the DOCTOR and DONNA, then reaches to a switch on the helmet. The visor clears to reveal a smiling woman-RIVER SONG
RIVER
(to DOCTOR) Hello, sweetie.
DOCTOR
Get out.
DONNA
Doctor.
DOCTOR
All of you, turn around, get back in your rocket and fly away! Tell your grandchildren you came to The Library and lived. They won't believe you.
RIVER
Pop your helmets, everyone. We got breathers. (removes helmet)
A second woman, ANITA, is not so sure.
ANITA
How do you know they're not androids?
RIVER
'Cause I've dated androids. They're rubbish.
A stout, balding man, LUX, is peeved that someone else is there.
LUX
Who is this? You said we were the only expedition. I paid for exclusives.
RIVER
I lied. I'm always lying. Bound to be others.
LUX
Miss Evangelista, I want to see the contracts.
A young, vapid-looking brunette nods.
RIVER
You came through the north door, yeah? How was that, much damage?
DOCTOR
Please, just leave. I'm asking you seriously and properly, just leave-Hang on, did you say, "expedition"?
LUX
My expedition. I funded it.
DOCTOR
Oh, you're not, are you? Tell me you're not archaeologists.
RIVER
Got a problem with archaeologists?
DOCTOR
I'm a time traveller. I point and laugh at archaeologists.
RIVER
Ah. Professor River Song, archaeologist.
DOCTOR
(shakes her hand) River Song, lovely name. As you're leaving--and you're leaving now-you need to send up a quarantine beacon. Code-wall the planet, the whole planet. Nobody comes here, not ever again. Not one living thing, not here, not ever! (ANITA begins to wander out of the light) Stop right there! (runs to ANITA) What's your name?
ANITA
Anita.
DOCTOR
Anita, stay out of the shadows. (pulls her back) Not a foot, not a finger in the shadows till you're safely back in your ship. Goes for all of you. Stay in the light! Find a nice bright spot and just stand. If you understand me, look very scared. (they look at him, bemused) No...a bit more scared than that. (MISS EVANGELISTA swallows) Okay, do for now. (walks over to one of the men by the door) Who are you?
OTHER DAVE
Uh, Dave.
DOCTOR
Okay, Dave...
OTHER DAVE
Well, Other Dave, because, uh...that's Proper Dave, the pilot. He was the first Dave so when we--
DOCTOR
Well, Other Dave, the way you came, does it look the same as before?
OTHER DAVE
Yeah. (looks down hall) Oh, it's a bit darker.
DOCTOR
How much darker?
OTHER DAVE
Well, like I could see where we came through just a moment ago. I can't now.
DOCTOR
Seal up this door. We'll find another way out. (heads back to the centre of the room)
LUX
We're not looking for a way out. Miss Evangelista?
MISS EVANGELISTA
(goes up to the DOCTOR and DONNA) I'm Mr Lux's personal...everything. You need to sign these contracts agreeing that your individual experiences inside The Library are the intellectual property of the Felman Lux Corporation.
DOCTOR
Right. Give it here. (takes contract)
DONNA
Yeah. (takes one)
As one they rip the contracts in half and throw them away.
LUX
My family built this library, I have rights.
RIVER
You have a mouth that won't stop. (to DOCTOR) You think there's danger here?
DOCTOR
Something came to this library and k*lled everything in it. k*lled a whole world. Danger? Could be.
RIVER
That was 100 years ago. The Library's been silent for 100 years. Whatever came here is long dead.
DOCTOR
Bet your life?
RIVER
Always.
There is a whirring sound.
LUX
(to OTHER DAVE) What are you doing?
OTHER DAVE
He said seal the door.
DOCTOR
Torch! (takes torch from LUX)
LUX
You're taking orders from him?
DOCTOR
Spooky, isn't it? (heads back and shines torch into the shadows. DONNA stands next to him) Almost every species in the universe has an irrational fear of the dark. But they're wrong-'cause it's not irrational. It's Vashta Nerada.
DONNA
What's Vashta Nerada?
DOCTOR
It's what's in the dark. It's what's always in the dark. Lights! That's what we need-lights! (tosses torch to LUX) Ya got lights? Form a circle, safe area, big as you can, lights pointing out.
RIVER
(to ANITA) Oi, do as he says.
The DOCTOR takes off his coat and throws it onto a desk.
LUX
You're not listening to this man?
RIVER
Apparently, I am. Anita, unpack the lights. Other Dave, make sure the door is secure then help Anita. Mr Lux, put your helmet back on, block the visor. Proper Dave, find an archive terminal. I want you to access The Library database, see what you can find about what happened 100 years ago. Pretty Boy, you're with me. Step into my office. (walks to a desk with a terminal)
The DOCTOR is kneeling, head sideways on the floor, watching the shadows.
LUX
Professor Song, why am I the only one wearing my helmet?
RIVER
I don't fancy you.
The DOCTOR gets up and goes to help PROPER DAVE.
DOCTOR
Probably I can help you.
RIVER
(from across the room) Pretty Boy, with me I said!
DOCTOR
(points at himself) Oh, I'm Pretty Boy?
DONNA
Yes. Oh, that came out a bit quick.
DOCTOR
Pretty?
DONNA
Meh.
The DOCTOR walks over to RIVER, talking to the others as he does so.
DOCTOR
Don't let your shadows cross! Seriously, don't even let them touch! Any of them could be infected.
OTHER DAVE
How could a shadow be infected?
MISS EVANGELISTA
Excuse me, can I help?
ANITA
No, we're fine.
MISS EVANGELISTA
I could, you know, just hold things.
OTHER DAVE
No, really, we're okay.
ANITA and OTHER DAVE exchange glances after MISS EVANGELISTA walks away. DONNA comes up to them.
DONNA
Couldn't she help?
OTHER DAVE
Trust me, I just spent four days on a ship with that woman. She's...
ANITA
Couldn't tell the difference between the escape pod and the bathroom. We had to go back for her. Twice.
ANITA and OTHER DAVE snicker. LUX and MISS EVANGELISTA are talking behind them.
MISS EVANGELISTA
I have to...sign it?
LUX
Yeah, you have to sign it.
RIVER is unpacking and the DOCTOR watches before clearing his throat.
RIVER
Thanks.
DOCTOR
For what?
RIVER
The usual. For coming when I call.
DOCTOR
That was you?
RIVER
You're doing a very good job, acting like you don't know me. I'm assuming there's a reason. (she thumbs through a small diary)
DOCTOR
A fairly good one, actually.
RIVER
Okay, shall we do diaries, then? Where are we this time? Going by your face, I'd say it's early days for you, yeah? So, um... "Crash of the Byzantium", have we done that yet? (the DOCTOR just stares) Obviously ringing no bells. (flips through the diary whose cover resembles the TARDIS) All right, um...oh..."picnic at Asgard". Have we done Asgard yet? (no response) Obviously not. Blimey, very early days, then. Huh, life with a time traveller-never knew it could be such hard work. Um...(looks at him) look at you. You're young.
DOCTOR
I'm really not, you know.
RIVER
No, but you are. (puts a hand to the side of his face) Your eyes... (DONNA watches) You're younger than I've ever seen you.
DOCTOR
You've seen me before, then?
RIVER
Doctor...please tell me you know who I am.
DOCTOR
Who are you?
RIVER removes her hand. There is a ringing sound. The DOCTOR stands.
PROPER DAVE
Sorry, that was me. Trying to get through into the security protocols. I seem to have set something off. What is that? Is that an alarm?
DONNA
Doctor, that sounds like-
DOCTOR
It is. It's a phone.
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL is drawing with the TV on. The phone continues to ring. DR MOON and her FATHER are in the kitchen.
GIRL
Dad!
FATHER
In a minute!
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
PROPER DAVE is at a terminal.
PROPER DAVE
I'm trying to call up the data core but it's not responding, just that noise.
The DOCTOR crosses the room followed by DONNA and the others.
DONNA
But it's a phone.
DOCTOR
Let me try something. (takes over)
INT. LIVING ROOM
The phone keeps ringing.
GIRL
(gets up) Dad, the phone. Aren't you going to answer it?
FATHER
It's not ringing, sweetie.
The GIRL goes to the phone but it stops ringing just as she reaches for it.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The computer tells the DOCTOR "Access Denied".
DOCTOR
Okay, doesn't like that. Let's try something else.
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL is drawing pictures of The Library.
DOCTOR
(voice static) Okay, here it comes. (There is static on the TV before the DOCTOR'S face appears on the screen.) Hello?
GIRL
Hello. Are you in my television?
DOCTOR
(on TV) Well...no, I'm-I'm sort of in space. Um, I was trying to call up the data core triple-grid security processor.
GIRL
Would you like to speak to my dad?
DOCTOR
(on TV) Dad or your mum. That'd be lovely.
GIRL
(hesitates) I know you. You were in my library.
DOCTOR
Your library?
GIRL
The Library's never been on television before. What have you done?
DOCTOR
Um, well, um...I just...rerouted the interface-
The picture reverts back to the cartoon she had on earlier.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The DOCTOR jerks back from the terminal as it loses the connection.
RIVER
What happened? Who was that?
The DOCTOR tries to reconnect but the screen reads "Access Denied".
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL picks up the television remote and begins hitting buttons, changing the channel in the hopes of getting the DOCTOR back.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The DOCTOR keeps tapping away at the keyboard with little luck.
DOCTOR
Keep working on those lights! We need lights! (runs to monitor at the desk)
RIVER
You heard him, people. Let there be light.
At the other monitor, the DOCTOR'S eye wanders to RIVER'S diary resting beside it. She comes up behind him just as he picks it up.
RIVER
(takes it) Sorry. You're not allowed to see inside the book. It's against the rules.
DOCTOR
What rules?
RIVER
Your rules. (walks away)
DONNA watches the exchange somehow knowing there's more going on that is being said. The DOCTOR continues to work on reaching the data core.
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL keeps changing channels. When nothing happens, she slides open a panel on the remote and presses a button.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
Books begin flying off the shelves and across the room.
DOCTOR
What's that? I didn't do that. Did you do that?
PROPER DAVE
Not me.
The screen in front of the DOCTOR now reads "CAL-Access Denied".
DOCTOR
What's "CAL"?
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL continues pressing buttons.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
MISS EVANGELISTA whimpers as the others simply watch the books in amazement. When the books stop, DONNA walks over to her.
DONNA
You all right?
MISS EVANGELISTA
What's that? What's happening?
PROPER DAVE
I don't know.
DONNA
Oh, thanks for offering to help with the lights.
MISS EVANGELISTA
They don't want me. They think I'm stupid 'cause I'm pretty.
DONNA
Course they don't. Nobody thinks that.
MISS EVANGELISTA
No, they're right, though. I'm a moron, me. My dad said I had the IQ of plankton and I was pleased.
DONNA
(laughs) See? That's funny.
MISS EVANGELISTA
N-no. I-I really was pleased. Is that funny?
DONNA
No. No.
More books clatter and MISS EVANGELISTA whimpers.
RIVER
What's causing that? Is it the little girl?
DOCTOR
Well, who is the little girl? What's she got to do with this place?
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL'S finger hesitates over a button.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The DOCTOR is sitting on the desk.
DOCTOR
How does the data core work? What's the principle? What's CAL?
RIVER
Ask Mr Lux.
DOCTOR
CAL. What is it?
LUX
I'm sorry. You didn't sign your personal experience contracts.
DOCTOR
(jumps down from desk) Mr Lux, right now, you're in more danger than you've ever been in your whole life. And you're protecting a patent?
LUX
I'm protecting my family's pride.
DOCTOR
Funny thing, Mr Lux, I don't wanna see everyone in this room dead because some idiot thinks his pride is more important.
RIVER
Then why didn't you sign his contract? (the DOCTOR stares at her) I didn't either. I'm getting worse than you.
DOCTOR
Okay, okay, okay. Let's start it again. What happened here? On the actual day 100 years ago, what physically happened?
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL pushes another button.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
A panel in the wall slides up revealing a passage.
RIVER
There was a message from The Library. Just one. "The lights are going out." Then the computer sealed the planet, and there was nothing for 100 years.
MISS EVANGELISTA sees the open passage.
LUX
It's taken three generations of my family just to decode the seals and get back here.
MISS EVANGELISTA
Um, excuse me.
LUX
Not just now.
RIVER
There was one other thing in the last message.
LUX
That's confidential.
RIVER
(to LUX) I trust this man with my life...with everything.
LUX
You've only just met him.
RIVER
Nope. He's only just met me.
With a look at DONNA, the DOCTOR goes to RIVER to see what she has to show him. MISS EVANGELISTA stands by the open panel.
MISS EVANGELISTA
Um, this might be important actually.
LUX
(sternly) In a moment.
RIVER
(shows DOCTOR data file) This is a data extract that came with the message.
DOCTOR
(reading) "4022 saved. No survivors."
RIVER
4022-that's the exact number of people who were in the library when the planet was sealed.
DONNA
But how can 4022 people be saved if there were no survivors?
RIVER
That's what we're here to find out.
LUX
So far what we haven't found are any bodies.
INT. LIBRARY, HALLWAY and LECTURE ROOM
MISS EVANGELISTA goes through the secret panel and finds herself in a dimly lit hallway. She walks along and discovers another reading room. She walks down to the main floor.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The others hear her scream and run through the passage, the DOCTOR leading the way.
INT. LIBRARY, LECTURE ROOM
They find a skeleton stripped of flesh.
DOCTOR
Everybody careful. Stay in the light.
PROPER DAVE
You keep saying that. I don't see the point.
DOCTOR
Who screamed?
PROPER DAVE
Miss Evangelista.
DOCTOR
Where is she?
RIVER
(into comms) Miss Evangelista, please state your current-(stops when she hears the echo)
The DOCTOR points the beam of his torch to the suit on the skeleton.
RIVER
(walks to skeleton) Please state your current...(kneels)...position. (she pulls the broken collar to reveal the green lights of the comm. device) It's her, It's Miss Evangelista.
ANITA
We heard her scream a few seconds ago. What could do that to a person in a few seconds?
DOCTOR
It took less than a few seconds.
ANITA
What did?
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Hello?
RIVER
I'm sorry, everyone. This isn't going to be pleasant. She's ghosting.
DONNA
She's what?
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Hello? Excuse me. I-I'm sorry, hello? Excuse me.
DONNA
That's-that's her. That's Miss Evangelista.
PROPER DAVE
I don't wanna sound horrible, but couldn't we just...you know-
RIVER
This is her last moment...no we can't. A little respect, thank you.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Sorry, where am I? Excuse me.
DONNA
But that's Miss Evangelista.
RIVER
It's a data ghost. She'll be gone in a moment. (into comm.) Miss Evangelista, you're fine. Just relax; we'll be with you presently.
DONNA
(to DOCTOR) What's a data ghost?
DOCTOR
There's a neural relay in the communicator, let's you send thought mail. That's it there, those green lights. Sometimes it can hold an impression of a living consciousness for a short time after death. Like an after-image.
ANITA
My father lasted a day. Kept talking about his shoelaces.
DONNA
She's in there.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) I can't see. I can't...Where am I?
PROPER DAVE
She's just brainwaves now. Pattern won't hold for long.
DONNA
She's conscious. She's thinking.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) I can't see. I can't...I don't know what I'm thinking.
DOCTOR
She's a footprint on the beach and the tide's coming in.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Where's that woman? The nice woman...is she there?
LUX
What woman?
DONNA
She means...I think, she means me.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Is she there?
RIVER
(into comm.) Yes, she's here. Hang on. (presses button putting it on speaker for DONNA) Go ahead. She can hear you.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Hello, are you there?
DONNA gasps and shakes her head.
DOCTOR
(whispers) Help her.
DONNA
She's dead.
DOCTOR
Yeah, help her.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Hello? Is that the nice woman?
DONNA
Yeah. Hello. Yeah, I'm-I'm here. You okay?
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) What I said before, about being stupid, don't tell the others. They'll only laugh.
DONNA
'Course I won't. 'Course I won't tell them.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Don't tell the others. They'll only laugh.
DONNA
I won't tell them. I said I won't.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Don't tell the others. They'll only laugh.
DONNA
I'm not going to tell them.
The indicator lights of the neural relay begin to flash.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) Don't tell the others. They'll only laugh.
RIVER
She's looping now. The pattern's degrading.
MISS EVANGELISTA
(over comm.) I can't think. I...don't know...I...I...I...Ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream. Ice cream. (keeps repeating)
RIVER
Does anybody mind if I... (steps forward and turns off the relay)
DONNA
That was...that was horrible. That was the most horrible thing I've ever seen.
The DOCTOR places a hand on DONNA'S shoulder.
RIVER
No...(holds MISS EVANGELISTA'S comm.)...just a freak of technology. (pockets the comm.) But whatever did this to her, whatever k*lled her, I'd like a word with that.
DOCTOR
I'll introduce you. (leaves room)
The others follow with a last look at MISS EVANGELISTA'S skeleton.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The DOCTOR runs in casting his torch about.
DOCTOR
I'm gonna need a packed lunch.
RIVER
Hang on. (goes to her pack)
DOCTOR
(kneels beside RIVER) What's in that book?
RIVER
Spoilers.
DOCTOR
Who are you?
RIVER
Professor River Song, University of--
DOCTOR
To me. Who are you to me?
RIVER
Again...spoilers. (holds out a metal box with food inside) Chicken and a bit of salad. Knock yourself out.
DOCTOR
(takes box) Right, you lot! Let's all meet the Vashta Nerada.
INT. LIVING ROOM
The GIRL throws down the remote in frustration.
FATHER
(enters from kitchen) Darling, Dr Moon is going now, but he'd like a word with you alone. Is that all right?
GIRL
Yes, of course, Dr Moon.
MOON
(to FATHER) Thank you. (FATHER leaves the room. MOON walks over and takes a seat near the GIRL) Now... Listen, this is important. There's the real world and there's the world of nightmares. That's right, isn't it? You understand that.
GIRL
Yes, I know, Dr Moon.
MOON
What I want you to remember is this-and I know it's hard-the real world is a lie, and your nightmares are real. The Library is real. There are people trapped in there, people who need to be saved. The shadows are moving again. Those people are depending on you. Only you can save them. Only you.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
The DOCTOR is on his knees using the sonic screwdriver to test the shadows. RIVER is watching him with love. DONNA is next to her.
RIVER
You travel with him, don't you? The Doctor-you travel with him.
DONNA
What of it?
DOCTOR
Proper Dave, can you move a bit?
PROPER DAVE
Why?
DOCTOR
Over there by the water cooler.
PROPER DAVE reluctantly moves out of the DOCTOR'S way. The DOCTOR continues testing the shadows.
DONNA
You know him, don't you?
RIVER
Oh, God, do I know that man. We go way back, that man and me...just not this far back.
DONNA
I'm sorry, what?
RIVER
He hasn't met me yet. I sent him a message but it went wrong. It arrived too early. This is the Doctor in the days before he knew me. And he looks at me...he looks right through me, and it shouldn't k*ll me, but it does.
DONNA
What are you talking about? Are you talking rubbish? Do you know him or don't you?
DOCTOR
Donna! Quiet, I'm working.
DONNA
Sorry.
RIVER
(looks at DONNA, shocked) Donna. You're Donna, Donna Noble.
DONNA
Yeah. Why?
RIVER
I do know the Doctor, but in the future-his personal future.
DONNA
So why don't you know me? Where am I in the future?
RIVER is stopped from answering as the DOCTOR calls out.
DOCTOR
Okay, got a live one! (gets up and faces others) That's not darkness down those corridors. This... (points) ...is not a shadow. It's a swarm... (picks up lunch) ...a man-eating swarm. (throws a chicken leg at the shadow and it is stripped of flesh before it hits the floor) They're piranhas of they air. The Vashta Nerada-literally "the shadows that melt the flesh." Most planets will have them but usually in small clusters. I've never seen an infestation on this scale-or as aggressive.
DONNA
What do you mean, "most planets"? Not Earth.
DOCTOR
Mmm, Earth and a billion other worlds. Where there's meat, there's Vashta Nerada. You can see them sometimes if you look. Dust in sunbeams.
DONNA
If they were on Earth, we'd know.
DOCTOR
Nah. Normally they live on road k*ll. But sometimes people go missing. Not everyone comes back out of the dark.
RIVER
Every shadow?
DOCTOR
No, but any shadow.
RIVER
So what do we do?
DOCTOR
Daleks, aim for the eyestalk. Sontarans, back of the neck. Vashta Nerada...run. Just run.
RIVER
Run? Run where?
DOCTOR
This is an index point. There must be an exit teleport somewhere.
LUX
Don't look at me. I haven't memorized the schematics.
DONNA
Doctor, the little shop. They always make you go through the little shop on the way out so they can sell you stuff.
The DOCTOR runs to the door of the shop and peers inside.
DOCTOR
You're right. Brilliant! That's why I like the little shop.
PROPER DAVE
Okay, let's move it.
DOCTOR
Actually, Proper Dave, can you stay where you are for a moment?
PROPER DAVE
Why?
DOCTOR
I'm sorry. I'm so, so sorry. But you've got two shadows.
They all look down and see one shadow behind PROPER DAVE and one at his side.
DOCTOR
It's how they hunt. They latch onto a food source and keep it fresh.
PROPER DAVE
What do I do?
DOCTOR
You stay absolutely still, like there's a wasp in the room. Like there's a million wasps.
RIVER
We're not leaving you, Dave.
DOCTOR
'Course we're not leaving you. Where's your helmet? Don't point, just tell me.
PROPER DAVE
On the floor by my bag.
ANITA goes to pick it up.
DOCTOR
Don't cross his shadow!
ANITA picks up the helmet and hands it to the DOCTOR.
DOCTOR
Thanks. Now, the rest of you, helmets back on and sealed up. (puts on PROPER DAVE'S helmet for him) We'll need everything we've got.
DONNA
But Doctor, we've haven't got any helmets.
DOCTOR
Yeah, but we're safe anyway.
DONNA
How are we safe?
DOCTOR
We're not. That was just a clever lie to shut you up. Professor, anything I can do with this suit?
LUX
What good are the damn suits? Miss Evangelista was wearing a suit. There was nothing left.
RIVER
We can increase the mesh density. Dial it up to 400%. Make it a tougher meal.
The DOCTOR takes out his sonic screwdriver and uses it on PROPER DAVE'S suit.
DOCTOR
800%. Pass it on. (holds out sonic screwdriver to RIVER)
RIVER
Gotcha! (holds up her own)
DOCTOR
What's that?
RIVER
It's a screwdriver.
DOCTOR
It's sonic.
RIVER
Yeah, I know. Snap! (changes the settings on the others' suits)
DOCTOR
(grabs DONNA'S hand) With me! Come on!
INT. LIBRARY, SHOP
The DOCTOR pulls DONNA into the shop. He lets go as he goes to the teleport controls. DONNA looks at the countertop.
DONNA
What are we doing? We shopping? Is it a good time to shop?
DOCTOR
(pushes her towards the teleport) No talking, just moving. Try it. Right. Stand there in the middle. It's a teleport. Stand in the middle. (works controls) Can't send the others, the TARDIS won't recognize them.
DONNA
What're you doing?
DOCTOR
You don't have a suit, you're not safe!
DONNA
You don't have a suit, so you're in as much danger as I am and I'm not leaving you!
DOCTOR
Donna! Let me explain... (presses button on the control panel and DONNA disappears) That's how you do it!
RIVER
(from the other room) Doctor!
The DOCTOR runs out.
INT. TARDIS
DONNA appears in the TARDIS but before the process is completed, she screams and flickers out.
INT. LIBRARY, DOMED READING ROOM
DOCTOR
Where did it go?
PROPER DAVE
It's just gone. I looked 'round, one shadow. See?
RIVER
Does this mean we can leave? I don't want to hang around here.
LUX
I don't know why we're still here. We can leave him, can't we? I mean, no offence...
RIVER
Shut up, Mr Lux.
DOCTOR
Did you feel anything, like an energy transfer? Anything at all?
PROPER DAVE
No. No, but look, i-it's gone. (begins to turn around)
DOCTOR
Stop there. Stop, stop, stop there. Stop moving! They're never just gone, and they never give up. (gets down on his knees and tests the shadows with the sonic screwdriver) Well, this one's benign.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
DOCTOR
(looks up at PROPER DAVE) No one, they're fine.
PROPER DAVE
No, seriously, turn them back on.
RIVER
They are on.
PROPER DAVE
I can't see a ruddy thing.
DOCTOR
(stands) Dave, turn around.
PROPER DAVE
(turns) What's going on? Why can't I see? Is the power gone? Are we safe here?
DOCTOR
Dave, I want you to stay still, absolutely still. (PROPER DAVE suddenly stiffens) Dave-Dave? Dave, can you hear me? You all right? Talk to me, Dave.
PROPER DAVE
I'm fine. I'm okay. I'm-I'm fine.
DOCTOR
I want you to stay still, absolutely still.
PROPER DAVE
I'm fine. I'm okay. I'm-I'm fine. I can't... Why can't I? I-I can't... Why can't I? I-I can't... Why can't I? I...
The lights on his communicator are blinking.
RIVER
He's gone. He's ghosting.
LUX
Then why is he still standing?
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights? Hey, who turned out the lights?
The DOCTOR moves closer to PROPER DAVE.
RIVER
Doctor, don't.
DOCTOR
Dave, can you hear me?
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
PROPER DAVE'S hands reach out and he begins to choke the DOCTOR, forcing him to his knees. The DOCTOR looks up at PROPER DAVE'S helmet and can see only a skeleton inside.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights? Hey, who turned out the lights?
RIVER
Excuse me! (uses her sonic screwdriver on the suit and the creature that was PROPER DAVE lets go of the DOCTOR)
DOCTOR
(scrambles away) Back from it! Get back, right back!
The creature comes after them awkwardly like it is just learning to walk.
RIVER
Doesn't move very fast, does it?
DOCTOR
It's a swarm in a suit. But it's learning.
Four shadows spread out from its feet.
LUX
What do we do? What do we do?
RIVER
See that wall behind you? Duck! (uses a sonic blaster on the wall to create an opening)
DOCTOR
Squareness g*n!
RIVER
Everybody out! Go, go, go! Move it! Move, move! Move it! Move, move!
They all run out of the room.
INT. LIBRARY, STACKS
RIVER
You said not every shadow-
DOCTOR
But any shadow.
They look around for a way out. "PROPER DAVE" arrives at the opening.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
RIVER
Run! (grabs the DOCTOR'S hand)
They all run down the narrow aisle between the shelves.
INT. LIVING ROOM
FATHER
Sweetie, dinner's ready (sets dishes on the table)
GIRL
(faces FATHER) Donna Noble has been saved.
FATHER
(puzzled) Sweetie?
INT. LIBRARY, STACKS
The DOCTOR is using the sonic screwdriver on an overhead lamp. The others are trying to catch their breath.
DOCTOR
Trying to boost the power. Light doesn't stop them, but it slows them down.
RIVER
So what's the plan? Do we have a plan? (points her sonic screwdriver at the light and it gets brighter)
DOCTOR
Your screwdriver...(steps down)...looks exactly like mine.
RIVER
Yeah. You gave it to me.
DOCTOR
I don't give my screwdriver to anyone.
RIVER
I'm not anyone.
DOCTOR
Who are you?
RIVER
What's the plan?
DOCTOR
I teleported Donna back to the TARDIS. If we don't get back there in under five hours, Emergency Programme One will activate.
RIVER
Take her home, yeah. (to others) We need to get a shift on!
DOCTOR
(looks at sonic screwdriver, concerned) She's not there. I should have received a signal. The console signals me if there's a teleport breach.
RIVER
Maybe the coordinates have slipped. The equipment here is ancient.
DOCTOR
(sees a NODE and runs to it) Donna Noble. There's a Donna Noble somewhere in this library. Do you have the software to locate her?
The NODE swivels around. It has DONNA'S face.
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
DOCTOR
(horrified) Donna.
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
RIVER
How can it be Donna? How is that possible?
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
DOCTOR
Oh, Donna.
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library.
"PROPER DAVE" has found them.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
RIVER
Doctor!
The DOCTOR can only stare at DONNA'S face as the NODE keeps repeating. RIVER comes running back with the others.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
RIVER
Doctor, we've got to go now! (pulls him along)
PROPER DAVE
(lumbers down the aisle) Hey, who turned out the lights?
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
The group runs down the aisles.
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
The group is caught in a dead end.
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
RIVER
Doctor, what are we going to do?
PROPER DAVE
Hey, who turned out the lights?
NODE
Donna Noble has left The Library. Donna Noble has been saved.
TO BE CONTINUED...
04x08 - Silence in the Library (part I)
Moderator: Kitty Midnight
Time and Space traveling adventures of a Gallifreyan Time Lord only known as "the Doctor" and his companions.
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Classic Who Specials
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