Steam engines, Skullgirls, and Universes

Chapter 16: Splendid Duo

James was still cross. He had been shut up in the yards for weeks, shunting the trucks and coaches to where they needed to be. He found it boring and tedious, the only company he had for most of the day was Percy. Percy didn't mind the work in the yard, he would happily shunt the trucks to the sidings, and coaches to the platform. Passengers always stayed out for as long as they could so that they could see the little green engine, his friendly attitude made him a favorite amongst the passengers and even the workers.

One morning the yard master and the station master came out to the sheds to speak with the engines.

"Good morning engines." said the station master. "I would like to start this by commending the efforts of Thomas, Toby, and Gordon. Because of their efforts to help repair New Meridian after the Skullgirls attack, the city is nearly completely repaired." The engines blew their whistles in delight. The three engines beamed with pride.

"Furthermore." interrupted the yard master. "Since we have most of our fleet back up and in steam, you three can go back to your usual jobs." The engines were delighted.

"Speaking of which." the yard master looked at Toby. "You've been working the city's tramway for a while know, and our regular trolley has returned from the works and is ready to resume service."

"Oh, I see." Toby frowned.

"However, I was told by your crew, and from those books that you are quite experienced with cattle, and farm trains correct?" he continued.

"Yes I am sir, used to take those trains all the time back on my old branchline." Toby said.

"Well then, you seem like the engine we need. We have a line on Maplecrest. The engine has cowcatchers as we thought it necessary to ensure no live stock would be harmed incase some stray out during the loading process. However the cowcatchers need replacing and the engine itself needs maintenance, would you like to fill in for it?" he asked.

"Oh yes sir. That would be a lovely change." Toby said.

"Then that's settled. Now as for you." the yard master said pointing to Percy. "I've heard your work in the yard has been good. If the workers are anything to go by, you've performed above and beyond expectations. As a reward, you'll also be going to Maplecrest to help Thomas and Toby." Percy's face lit up with excitement.

"Oh yes sir, please sir, thank you sir." Percy said wheeshing steam.

"Settle down boy." laughed his driver.

"As for the rest of you, it will be the usual. Thomas on Maplecrest, Gordon with the express, Duck with the Sunshine Special."

"What about me?" James asked excited to learn what his new job would be. The yard master and station master looked at each other, then back at James.

"You'll stay in the yard and shunt." they said. James excitement left, and his face dropped.

"What? But what about my hard work in the yards, surely it shouldn't go unrewarded." he complained.

"Direct orders from the princess herself, we can't go against her." the station master said.

"Well well, it looks like the princess still has a chip on her shoulder from your little conversation with her." Duck chuckled.

"Alright, enough talking." the yard master said. "You engines have your tasks, so get to work." he said, and the two men walked away.

The engines were getting steamed up, and talking about their jobs to pass the time.

"Ah what a treat it will be to return to the glory of the express." Gordon said.

"Maplecrest doesn't sound that bad either according to Thomas." Percy said.