Terror Tales of Sodor

The Phantom of Ulfstead

Ulfstead Castle is the Earl of Sodors main residence, which he had lived in ever since he was a little kid. Ulfstead Castle was owned by a nobleman loyal to King Godred, but was severely damaged during battle. It was eventually given to the first Earl of Sodor, Sir Charles Robert Norramby. It has been passed down from generation to generation until it was restored to tis former glory by the current Earl of Sodor, Sir Robert Charles Norramby.

However, there was a tragic event in the castle that has remained a part of its history ever since the first world world war. This has been covered up by the railway, as most were during war time. It wasn't even uncovered until archivists searched through Sir Roberts Estate in nineteen ninty seven. Sir Robert, who was fifty seven years old at the time, was reluctant to talk about it, but eventually agreed to have them put into the sodor archives. But the true story would be revealed by Duke one fateful day.

It was in the late summer of nineteen ninety eight, which was peak tourist season for the NorthWestern Railway. The majority of tourists were headed to Ulfstead Castle, as The Earl is hosting some very fun activities for everyone. This meant the engines were very busy, especially Duke. This made him both exhausted and grumpy. "This sort of exertion would never suit his grace!" He would say.

One night, Duke was grumbling dreadfully in the sheds at the castle. "It's disgraceful!" He snarled. "I've been worked off my wheels, and I barely gotten any sleep last night!!!! All I want is a good nights sleep!"

"Maybe we should put you in an old shed and let you sleep for another twenty years." Glynn replied cheekily.

"Show some respect!" Duke snapped! "I am not going that ordeal ever again! I swear, I'm almost going to end up like Shen!"

"Shen?" Millie asked, confused. "Who is he?"

Duke sighed deeply. "Shen was an engine who used to work at Ulfstead Castle before the rest of you were bought." He began, looking up in the sky.

*flashback*
Duke (voiceover): Shen was a grey-colored tank engine that used to work on the Wellsworth and Suddery Railway, which as you all know is now Edward's branchline. He is a very hard worker, and was eventually purchased by Sir Robert's Father, Sir Charles Robert Norramby. He would do anything his Grace would ask him, and this would cause several problems over the years. But one night, these problems would surface in the most gruesome way.

This story takes place in August 1942 World War Two was in full swing, and all the engines were rushed off their wheels. Shen was one of them, having pulled all kinds of trains, from troop trains and munitions. He barely had time for rest or be maintained, but he didn't care. He knew it would be difficult, but he pushed through, knowing he's doing his country proud.

The morning of August fifteenth, Shen woke up with a large smile on his face. He was eager to work his bunker off for his country, and he makes sure to put a smile on his face at all times, which was desperately needed on that time. His crew were just starting him up when Sir Charles Robert Norramby, the Earl of Sodor at the time, approached him with a beautiful woman holding a three year old boy in her arms. Charles was wearing a military uniform, the woman was wearing a yellow shortsleeve dress, yellow slip on heels, a straw sunhat with a sunflower on it, and a white pearl necklace, and the little boy was wearing a white shortsleeve collared shirt, navy blue shorts, and small slip on shoes. 

Sir Norramby: Ah, good morning Shen! How are you?

Shen: Good morning, your grace. I'm great, thank you. And I'm more than ready to work.

Sir Norramby: Excellent. I know you will make me proud.

Shen: I will, sir. *looks at the people next to him* Sir, who are these two?