Sodor Engines: North Western Engines

Trucks & Trouble

(April 1915)

A month had passed since Edward and Albert's arrival. They have been joined by another engine from Germany. His name was Marklin. At first, the engines were quite skeptical of him due to him being from a place that started the war. But they eventually came around after realizing that Marklin is a pleasant fellow.

***

"Come on, you two. We can do this," Alan grunted as he, Edward, and Eagle struggled to pull a heavy goods train up the Wellsworth Incline.

"We're trying our best, mate. The train is too heavy," Eagle panted.

"Try harder," said Edward, "we're almost there."

Eventually, the three engines reached the top of the hill.

"Thank goodness," Alan sighed, "I thought we were going to get stuck."

"Well, luckily we didn't. That would've been embarrassing," Eagle replied.

"Indeed. The Wellsworth Incline could give the Lickey Incline a run for its money," Edward said.

Alan and Eagle agreed. It was smooth sailing for them the rest of the way.

***

The trio arrived at yard at Tidmouth, tired but triumphant.

"You're late," came a blunt voice.

Alan sighed heavily. "Sorry, Billy," he said, "there was a bit of trouble along the way. A lorry broke down along a level crossing so we had to wait until a tow truck could come get it. Then, we had a bit of trouble getting over the Wellsworth Incline."

"Pah. Those incidents would never happen to me. I'm a very punctual engine who always gets to my destinations on time," Billy boasted.

"Except that time where one of your trucks derailed," Alan smirked.

Billy scowled. "Well... well... That wasn't my fault. The brake blocks on that truck were faulty."

"Then don't assume what happened today was our fault either," Eagle said sternly.

"Whatever. Just leave your trucks here. I'll deal with them later," Billy said.

"Right. See you later, Billy," Alan said. They were uncoupled and went into some sidings to rest.

"Is he always like that?" Edward asked, "I haven't known him for that long."

"Only sometimes. He means well, just has a slight attitude problem," Alan replied.

"I see. I know a few engines like that back on the Furness. But after some time, I managed to put up with their nonsense."

"Same with me back on the London, Brighton, & South Coast," Alan said.

***

Later, at Knapford, Marklin and Lily were busy shunting in the yard.

"I must say Lily, you are pretty good shunter," Marklin complimented.