Time of Imagination

Prologue: Testimony

Aveanomaitanirr strolled into Lord Chancellor Naludan's chamber. "I have completed the mission, my Lord Chancellor."

The Chancellor glanced up from his papers. "I have read your recommendations. Alres' technological level renders it unsuitable, as does the gaseous nature of Uecheab VI, but this planet—"he tapped a location on the map. "appears perfect for our purposes. The natives resemble us closely enough to blend in, but the technology won't advance beyond level five for centuries. What is the native name?"

"Earth," Aveanomaitanirr replied.

"Primitives," Naludan shrugged. "The prospect of being exiled among such ignorant beasts should discourage Academy graduates from interfering with other civilizations."

"Excuse me," the younger Time Lord stood. "But I found wisdom on this planet unmatched throughout Time. Neither Rassalon, Omega, or the Other taught with such insight."

"They're a level two planet," the Chancellor glared at Aveanomaitanirr. "Who is the origin of this teaching? Some great scientist? A mighty emperor?"

"A carpenter, Yeshua bar Yosef of Nazareth."

Naludan raised an eyebrow. "A simple tradesman. What act of a primitive beast could impress one of the finest Academy graduates?"

"Resurrection."

"You are less than two centuries old, only in your first regeneration. Yet surely you have seen rebirths in House Arpexia before."

"This was a man, honored Naludan. A man from a rural society that had not yet mastered steam power, much less sonic devices. He lay in his tomb for three days, then returned to life; with the same face, but a different body. And when he ascended into heaven, I could not follow, not even with the power of the TARDIS. "Aveanomaitanirr leaned forward. "He spoke of a beginning, and an end…and one who has power over everything, even Time."

The Lord Chancellor rose to his feet. "You do know that this conversation is recorded."

"Yes." Aveanomaitanirr turned and spoke directly to the surveillance device. "Though we claim the title 'Lords of Time,' I have spoken with its maker, who is eternal. And I have repented of my sins."

"Sins?" Naludan's face tightened with rage. "What sins do we commit?"

"Pride." In contrast to the Chancellor's face, Aveanomaitanirr bore an expression of icy calm. It was the first time Naludan saw such an expression, but it wasn't the last. "Our indifference to others, our callousness towards suffering. After what I've seen, I refuse to follow this policy any longer." He walked out without waiting to be dismissed.

After the door shut, Naludan called an aid to his side. "Who else was on this mission?"

"Rhanassastarchor, and the Acadamy students Coninabeldanyr and Euraiunoreyntæƾ."

"Only four?"

"It was meant be a secret mission, and Aveanomaitanirr is a skilled pilot."

"Call them in." Naludan stared at the record. "We must see how far this heresy has spread."