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"The Organ Grinder: Diving Deep into the Time War"

The Organ Grinder kicks off the Malignant Truth collection by plunging Alice and the War Doctor into the chaos of the Time War, introducing the enigmatic Volatix Cabal. These fanatical Daleks, a death cult born of the Daleks' desperate innovations during the late stages of the war, bring a fresh and intriguing dimension to their race. Each member of the Cabal boasts a unique design and personality, setting them apart from the usual Dalek archetype.

This story offers significant revelations, including the truth behind the Cyclors and the origins of the Malignant. A particularly exciting moment is the appearance of a young and dashing Squire, proving her earlier involvement in the war. This adds depth to her character and ties her more firmly into the larger narrative.

The ensemble cast shines here, with Alice, the War Doctor, and the Squire joined by the Master—reimagined as a paradox-loving, sarcastic young figure who brings a sharp edge to the team dynamic. The War Doctor is written with spot-on accuracy, and the interplay between him and Alice remains a highlight. Their use of the psychic paper to unmask one of the Volatix Cabal’s undercover Daleks is a clever and satisfying moment.

The story crescendos with the dramatic cliffhanger reveal of the godlike Cyclors, setting the stage for the unfolding conflict.

📝Verdict: 8/10

The Organ Grinder is a richly layered dive into the Time War’s complexities, delivering compelling character work, innovative takes on classic foes, and a tantalizing setup for what’s to come.