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“Gallifrey: A Trial of Time and Friendship”

Volume 6 of The New Adventures of Bernice Summerfield reaches a gripping conclusion with Gallifrey, a story that balances courtroom drama, political intrigue, and personal sacrifice. As the Time Lords finally apprehend Benny and the Unbound Doctor, the tale explores the inevitable fallout of their unorthodox travels. This finale ties up the volume’s themes with gravitas while keeping its central characters’ dynamic at the forefront.

The episode centres around the trial of the Unbound Doctor, deemed an “Aberration” by the Time Lords. The courtroom scenes are a standout, with David Warner delivering a commanding performance as the Doctor, oscillating between defiance and introspection. Lisa Bowerman’s Benny shines as she dons the traditional Gallifreyan robes and passionately defends the Doctor, using her sharp wit and newfound understanding of Time Lord law. The tension is palpable as she faces Narvin’s relentless prosecution, played with conviction by Seán Carlsen.

The eerie atmosphere of Gallifrey enhances the drama, with subtle hints that something is deeply wrong beneath the surface. This foreboding tone is expertly woven into the narrative, culminating in revelations about the sinister entity known as the Now.

One of the story’s strengths is its focus on the relationship between Benny and the Doctor. Their bond, forged through four box sets, reaches its emotional peak as they face what appears to be their final moments together. Benny’s devastation during the Doctor’s apparent execution is heartbreakingly portrayed by Bowerman, highlighting the depth of their friendship.

Warner’s Doctor, as always, is a delight. His sardonic humour, resilience, and eventual heroism are on full display, especially as he navigates the trial and the machinations of Gallifrey’s politics.

Beyond the courtroom, the story delves into the strange happenings on Gallifrey, including power fluctuations, rogue regenerations, and the grim fate of the archivist, who repeatedly regenerates into explosive deaths. This graphic subplot ties into the larger mystery of the Now, a parasitic entity that abhors temporal progression and seeks to manipulate Gallifrey.

The climax is a whirlwind of chanting, chaos, and regeneration energy as Narvin’s plan is revealed. His morally dubious decision to use the crisis to purge the Now—and a few Time Lords along the way—aligns with his established character from the Gallifrey audios. It’s a bold move that angers both the Doctor and Benny, adding layers to Narvin’s complex motivations.

The Doctor’s escape from execution mirrors his trick in Arc of Infinity, cleverly utilising the Matrix as a means of survival. These callbacks to classic Doctor Who add a nostalgic touch, enhancing the story’s connection to the wider Whoniverse.

📝Verdict: 95/100

Gallifrey delivers an intense and satisfying conclusion to The New Adventures of Bernice Summerfield: Volume 6. With stellar performances, an engaging courtroom drama, and a richly layered plot, it encapsulates the series’ blend of humour, intrigue, and emotional depth. Fans of Benny, the Unbound Doctor, and Gallifreyan politics will find much to love in this thrilling and bittersweet finale.