Both NE and TandC make smile so damn much. And I also LOVE Billie as an actress, one of the very best in the show, IMO.

Agreed, and I love New Earth, which I recognize is not the best ep, but it's so fun and handles some important themes, IMO. Tooth and Claw is near perfection to me.

He knew Cassandra was finished any way, and she also realized it, so he allowed her a tiny moment of happiness. I loved that scene and that the Doctor was able to show some compassion at the end of her 'life.' I really think you're trying to find flaws just cause.

S2 had a simpler theme(s): The Doctor forming a stronger connection with Rose and viceversa, and Torchwood. And it also had strong episodes like The Christmas Invasion, School Reunion, Tooth and Claw, the 2-parter Cybermen eps, The Impossible Planet/Satan Pit and the series finale 2-parter.

Or 7b.

" I still doubt that this one scene would have satisfactorily explained just why the Doctor is willing to show Cassandra such generous mercy, especially considering he stands by the “No second chances” rule in his treatment of the Sisters of Plenitude."