Close Protection is set on the planet of Xian Xien, as first seen in the Doctor Who episode, Turn Left. It is a delightfully exotic Chinese-themed planet that deserves further exploration. I set a two part Theta Sigma story there - The Assassin of Xiang Xien, and this Marion and Kristoph story returns to the location. It might be suggested that this is a later period than the Theta Sigma story, when Xian Xien was still a closed feudal world with no contact with other societies. Here, Kristoph is negotiating formal ties with Gallifrey. But that isn’t a problem. Time Lords can visit any time or place.

Most of the story is about Marion and Rosanda having a very pleasant afternoon, shopping in the exotic market and eating in a Xian Xien restaurant. They talk about gowns and introducing Rosanda into Marion’s circle of friends, despite her being a Caretaker. Then they head back to the Mandarin’s Palace. Everything seems well.

It is in the last paragaph that all is revealed. Both women were in danger of being taken by slavers all through their day. Only the intervention of a C.I.A. assassin who was protecting them all day saved them from a terrible fate.

http://tardis.wikia.com/wiki/Shan_Shen

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_Left_%28Doctor_Who%29