Back at the Steamworks on Sodor, Thomas was still feeling rather sorry for himself…and for Emily.

"Why did this all have to happen?!" he thought. "The Fat Controller only tells me TODAY that I had a chance of going, then leaves me behind! And what's to become of Emily with that bully endangering the show?"

"I'm sorry, Thomas," said his driver. "I know that trip to the Mainland meant the world to you."

"No, it's not you," said Thomas. "I shouldn't have got so carried away in my eagerness…now I've really hit rock bottom."

Victor saw Thomas and tried to comfort him. "You're not the only engine who's had to stay behind, my friend," said Victor. "Look at me. I'm still here. And there are plenty of other engines working all over the island, The Fat Controller still has a railway to run, you know."

"If I hear that 'railway to run,' thing one more time, I will throw myself into the SEA!" Thomas thought to himself.

"Please, boss, I have a question," said Kevin. He had been trying to speak up while Victor spoke to Thomas.

"What's so important that you have to keep interrupting?" asked Victor.

"W-what's this?" asked Kevin. He was carrying a tray with something made of brass.

"That's Gordon's safety valve mechanism," said Victor.

"Yes. That's what I thought it was," said Kevin. Then Victor suddenly remembered!

"Gordon's safety valve?! But that means Gordon hasn't been reassembled properly. I told him to wait for his safety check! If Gordon's safety valve isn't working properly, he could overheat, especially at high speeds! Gordon needs that part right now!"

"Take it to him, Victor! Just go!" said Thomas.

"I can't take it, Thomas. The only one here who can take it is you!"

All of Thomas' disappointed dissolved in an instant…he WOULD go to the Great Railway Show after all. Perhaps this was the little luck that Flying Scotsman mentioned a few days ago!

"Of course you do, Thomas. And with any luck…maybe you shall."

But Thomas didn't know if he'd compete as originally planned…and he wondered for a moment about going just to give Gordon his safety valve…after all the misfortunes Gordon had caused Emily, and Thomas in recent years, he wondered if he should help him…but something else was telling him to save his ally. Thomas couldn't let Gordon overheat, or even worse, blow up! In the end, Gordon was still an engine of the Fat Controller's railway…and Thomas still felt that somewhere in that machine of coal and water that was Gordon, an ally still lay within. For once, Thomas decided saving Gordon was more important than paying him back.

"Take it, Thomas…and get back your place in the Shunting Challenge. In my opinion, you've already won!" said Kevin. "Go now!"

So even though he wasn't fully repaired, Thomas was sent to take Gordon the part he needed. He raced right through Vicarstown to get to the bridge. But then there was trouble! The signal went red and Vicarstown Bridge began to rise for an oncoming ship!

"Oh no!" called Thomas.

"I've got to get across! I can't stop now!" He went higher and higher…then he soared off the edge. He howled with excitement and peril, hoping he wouldn't fall into the Walney Channel…for Gordon's troubles…but before he knew it…he was running back on the rails and on his way.

"I did it! I did it!" he cheered.

"Thomas?" said a voice. There was Samson huffing beside him.

"Uh-oh…Cinders and Ashes, I'm on the wrong track!" Thomas called as he saw Connor coming straight for him.

"Get out of the way!" whistled Connor. The signalman acted quickly and turned the points just in time, but it wasn't over yet. Thomas saw Hiro coming down the line!

"Hiro!" Hiro saw Thomas coming up and was most surprised as the signalman switched Thomas away again.

"SIDNEY!" Thomas was switched away one more time before calming down. There were no more engines to worry about now.

"Whoo. I really must stop doing that," said Thomas as he calmly continued on his way.

"Thomas…Thomas!" exclaimed Hiro. "He made it after all! I'd better go back!" Hiro left his pretend train in the next siding he found and hurried back to join in the Strength Competition, feeling very pleased with this event.


Back at the Railway Show as Henry was preparing for his event, the Fat Controller was admiring Axel as he was turned round on a turntable. Percy and Gordon were beside each other. Gordon was still very proud of himself, but after the quick energy Percy saw from Gina, he felt even more nervous.

"Oh, why did the Fat Controller ask me to do this?" complained Percy. "There's no way I'm going to win my event!"

"Well, I'm going to win MINE," bragged Gordon as Philip stopped right by him.

"I found the track to the Great Race! Come on, Shooting Star. Follow me!" he said. Gordon smiled, happy that he was being called by his preferred new name. But as Philip began to reverse, he almost bumped into Vinnie.

"Sorry, didn't see you there," he said.

"Well you better watch where you're going, shorty!" snapped Vinnie. "Or YOU might end up being recycled!" He then huffed loudly past Gordon with a snicker.

"Engines like him; think they know everything!" huffed Gordon.

"I can't imagine why," said his driver to no one in particular.

"Come on, Philip, continue on," said Gordon as he and Philip kept moving steadily to the race track.

At last, Thomas arrived at the show. "Bust my buffers! This place is even bigger than I thought it would be! So many engines! How am I going to find... Gordon? Gordon!" As Hiro returned to get back to the Strength Competition, Thomas saw a big blue engine up ahead and was happy for a moment. "Thank goodness, I found…" But then Thomas stopped. This big blue engine wasn't Gordon. It was distinctly a female who looked at Thomas with annoyance.

"Oh. You're not Gordon," said Thomas.

"Oh! Do I look like a Gordon? My name is Frieda!" she said with a German accent before steaming away to take part in the strength Competition. She returned to her spot beside Hiro. Henry was now ready to start his event. The green flag waved and the five engines started to move, pulling a flatbed piled high with heavy wood. Henry noticed the strain almost right away and became tired pretty quickly.

"Come on, Henry!" called Percy. "Pull, pull!" Henry tried very hard, but as strong as he was, even this was a struggle for him. Percy kept encouraging Henry as the other engines slowly got ahead of him. Vinnie got ahead to take the lead pretty quickly. Fortunately he didn't abuse any rules yet…but then Frieda suddenly came gliding slowly past. She made this challenge look easy.

While Henry struggled on, Thomas passed through the main yard. "Gordon! GORDON!" By this time, the Decorated Engine Parade was in motion, getting ready for the judges. Thomas saw Gordon huffing away with Philip and tried to get through the oncoming parade.

"Come back! I have something important to give to you!" But his way was blocked by Stephen and his open carriage full of musicians, leading the Decorated Engine Parade.

"Gordon! GORDON!" called Thomas. Each engine looked at Thomas as they passed. Rajiv looked curious but said nothing. Yong Bao suddenly saw Thomas and stayed quiet too, then gave Thomas a wink.

"WAIT!" Thomas yelled as Carlos passed by too. At that moment, Emily came along the track after Carlos. Thomas saw her and felt a splurge of happiness. She was most surprised to see Thomas and didn't think he'd make it, but she didn't have much time to talk either.

"Thomas? What are YOU doing here?" she asked loudly, trying to speak above the fanfare. Thomas was relieved she was alright, but was more taken in by her stunning decorations.

"Thomas! Hi!" greeted James.

"I'm trying…to get to Gordon!" said Thomas, getting flustered with all the noise and crowding. "I have to give him something important!" But after seeing her amazing appearance again, he reversed to get one more look at Emily. On the stands, the Fat Controller was standing at the judges' table, eyeing the trophy with enthusiasm. As such, he didn't notice Thomas as he found his seat, still looking at his Railway Show coupon. Even when Thomas and Emily started to talk, he didn't hear them thanks to the chattering in the audience.

"So you DID come, Thomas! I'm so happy for that," smiled Emily.

"Emily…" said Thomas. "I haven't got much time, but…are you OK? I was so scared that Vinnie would be hurting you."

"Vinnie? Who's Vinnie?" asked Emily.

"He's a big grey and navy engine. Seriously, DON'T get close to him," said Thomas. "He's in the strength competition."

"Hm…Thanks. I'll be fine," said Emily. "There are dozens of engines who'll watch me here at the show." Then she could see the judges arriving and knew the competition would start soon. She spoke more quietly. "Just before our competition begins, Thomas…what ARE you doing here?"

"It's Gordon. He needs his safety valve. Victor sent me to give it to him," explained Thomas.

"Oh," said Emily. Then she whispered secretly. "But…why are you helping him? He teased you badly and wouldn't stop boasting."

"Victor said his boiler could burst. I HAVE to help him," said Thomas. "Didn't you hear Victor warning him?"

"Oh, yes, I did," said Emily. "Then you'd better go find him."

"Yes," said Thomas. "And one more thing…you look absolutely gorgeous and amazing, Emily."

"Oh, Thomas…" smiled Emily. "Do I…?"

"Good afternoon, judges," said Yong Bao. Thomas heard them and looked up. Indeed, the judges were now taking their seats.

"Bye, Emily. See you later," Thomas said quickly, and he dashed off in search for Gordon while Emily looked up to the audience with a smile. Yong Bao had seen the lovers talking and became more curious about Thomas.

"Hmm," he thought. "He looks like a clever tank engine…" Then the announcer began comparing each engine's looks.

"Well, ladies and gentlemen, our first engine to look at today is Yong Bao of China. I do say, Yong Bao, you certainly look bold and strong. That tiger on your tender and the dragon design above you is truly splendid. Absolutely exciting, and that particular shade of red paint is also quite a style you have."

"You're too kind, sir," said Yong Bao. "But thank you."

Next the announcer addressed… "Carlos of Mexico, ladies and gentlemen. I remember hearing about you before, Carlos. Yes, you won in the Strength Competition in the first show that ever took place here…now you're here in the Decorated Parade. I don't see any decorations on you, but nevertheless, you are a unique engine in your own ways."

Then the announcer looked at the most decorated engine of all. "Rajiv of India. Aside from Ashima for another challenge today, you, Rajiv are certainly splendid-looking. All those decorations really make you stand out. Very lively and colourful, just like any decorated engine at their best. You must be very proud of how you look!"

Rajiv just smiled innocently. Now Emily knew it was Sodor's turn next and listened to what the announcer had to say.

"And now, ladies and gentlemen, we have two engines from Sir Topham Hatt's North Western Railway. This is…Emily of Sodor!" he exclaimed. "My goodness, Emily! You may not have as much decoration as Rajiv, but you look absolutely splendid too! I can see you have had some work done on your beautiful emerald coat there. Along your boiler and your tender, there is some nice gold lining. Very elegant and distinguished…"

Emily smiled and felt thankful already. She didn't need to win any trophies. She just needed some nice compliments from this show.

"I can see that flower on your beautifully long funnel too. And that shining gold ring at the top, now that's quite lovely," the announcer continued. "The gold flower lining on your boiler is quite divine and your two large driving wheels really give you absolutely gorgeous curves. All of this truly makes you a special engine!"

"Oh, sir," Emily blushed. "Thank you. I'm just happy that you think I'm this beautiful."

"And lastly, the second engine from Sodor…James," said the announcer. "Your red paint is bright and cheerful. And those gold linings are quite splendid for your paintwork too." James smiled with pride.

"So these are all our engines for the Decorated Engine Parade, ladies and gentlemen," said the announcer. "The judges will now take their time to decide who the best decorated engine is today." Then all the engines and the audience waited while the judges debated who would win this event…


Henry meanwhile had finished his event and had some ill news to share. He already told Percy as the other competitors left.

"Don't dwell on it, Henry. You still did your best," said Hiro as he passed by.

"Aye, mate," added Shane. "You're still a good sport for your efforts. G'day now."

"Rah!" snarled Vinnie. "I should have taken that win! I should have played by my OWN rules!"

"Schnell!" snapped Frieda from behind him. "I always knew girl power had a chance. So I DID make history! I'm the first female engine to win this competition! Amazing isn't it?" she said as she left too.

Suddenly Philip came rushing up. "How did you get on in the Strongest Engine Competition, Henry?" he asked.

"Huh…I-I came fifth," said Henry.

"Wow! That's great!" said Philip, not fully understanding Henry's point.

"There were only five engines," corrected Henry.

"Oh," sighed Philip. At that moment, at the Decorated Parade, the judges made their decision and handed some information to the announcer.

"And I've just been handed a piece of very exciting news," he said. All the decorated engines perked up and listened. "The winner of the Best Decorated Engine Award is…"

"Oh, thank you, thank you, you're too kind," said James, taking too much pride too soon.

"From India…Rajiv!" said the announcer. "What a splendid engine are you! Hard to imagine an engine more splendid than that."

The Fat Controller frowned with envy. Emily was not disappointed. She could see how detailed Rajiv was and she personally didn't come to compete. She only came so that other engines and people could see her.

"Oh! But that's not all, ladies and gentlemen," the announcer said. "There's more to this information! Rajiv takes the win, but Emily from Sodor shall be declared an honorable mention. While not as detailed as Rajiv, Emily certainly does have those exceptions that make her stand out in her own way. Like I said, those giant driving wheels really give her those gorgeous curves, and her funnel is exceptionally tall, so everyone give her a hand also."

The audience applauded and cheered for Emily too.

"As for the rest of you, you all look very fine in your own ways and thank you for participating in the Decorated Parade for this year's Great Railway Show."

"Yes, indeed," whispered Yong Bao.

Emily smiled shyly. Now she had the admiration of her audience and even Yong Bao. But James was very jealous of Rajiv taking the trophy for this event.

"Honestly! That should have been ME!" he complained.

"Or Ashima," said Emily. "Why weren't you in the parade?"

Ashima replied, "I'm competing in the Shunting Challenge, Emily. Just because we're painted well doesn't mean we can't do anything else." She came a little closer and winked. "And I mean you're painted well in your own way, Emily, and you can do many things too. You are a wonderful engine."

"Thanks, Ashima," smiled Emily.

At that moment, Thomas ran into more friends from Sodor. He had been looking for Gordon, but ever since he talked to Emily, Gordon had disappeared again. "Henry, Percy, Philip!" he called.

"It's Thomas!" rejoiced Percy.

"Hello, Thomas!" said Philip.

"I need to find Gordon urgently. It's an emergency! I saw him before, but now I've lost him again!"

"That's because his race is about to begin," said Philip. "Haven't you heard? The Great Race is about to begin…"

"In two minutes," finished the announcement.

"No!" cried Thomas.

"How did you get your voice to do that, Philip?" asked Percy.

"He can't race! He hasn't' got his safety valve, his boiler could explode!" said Thomas.

"Explode? Oh no! Follow me!" said Philip as he, Percy, Henry and Thomas rushed off to the race track as the announcement continued.

"The engines are lined up now for the start of the Great Race, and what a line-up it is! These are some of the fastest locomotives to be found on modern railways. On track one, we have a French diesel electric engine Etienne, who will be trying to beat his own world record today. Next to him, we have Spencer…" The audience cheered over the announcement for him.

"No, no. Thank you," chuckled Spencer. As the announcer continued to present the engines, the two brothers beyond Axel looked to each other.

"Good luck, little brother," smirked Flying Scotsman as he drew his fenders out with a sound like a drawing sword.

"I don't think I'm the one who needs luck," replied Gordon.

"Gordon! Gordon!" called Thomas as he stopped by the line. "Thank goodness I found-"

"Stop calling me that! My name is Shooting Star!" the big blue engine corrected annoyingly.

"OK, sorry Gordon, I mean…Falling Star," Thomas said cheekily. "But you have to listen to me! Victor says you safety valve hasn't been reassembled properly!"

"Nonsense, Thomas!" huffed Gordon. Bob stepped down from Thomas and hurried to give Gordon the valve. "There's no time for this! The race is starting…." The whistle blew and the engines set off. "NOW!"

"No, Gordon! Wait! You mustn't race!" called Thomas as he tried to chase his ally.

"What's this? There's a little tank engine out there, folks!" The Fat Controller didn't see Thomas as he retrieved his hat after the breeze from the racers blew it off.

"You could overheat! Your boiler could blow up!" panicked Thomas.

But it did no good. Gordon kept racing along, disregarding Thomas' warning as whining. And so, he sang the song he hummed to himself back at the Steamworks. He declared himself the Shooting Star as he did since that morning and looked down and jeered at his contenders, telling them to all give up with no hope. But as he declared to be only be a shining flash of blue, he only gained speed at a steady pace. Flying Scotsman did not like how much self-centered pride his brother was taking in. As he heard his brother continue to sing of his "bossy brother," and being the best, his opinions of Sodor engines went even lower, but he would soon come to change his mind dramatically. As Gordon kept on with his song, he came closer and closer to taking the lead. Etienne and Spencer saw him gaining foot by foot and yard by yard.

The announcer could see everything. "Etienne and Spencer are still holding the lead, but after a late start, the Shooting Star is coming up from behind! He's already overtaken the Flying Scotsman and Axel..."

But then, Flying Scotsman could see something rather dodgy. He could hear a whistling sound coming from his brother and tried to warn him.

"Gordon? Gordon!" called Flying Scotsman.

"THAT'S NOT MY NAME!" the big engine roared crossly.

"You have to stop! Listen to me, Gordon! There's something wrong!" called Flying Scotsman.

"I can't stop, I WON'T STOP!" roared Gordon.

The announcer could see everything. "I don't know what's happening, but…it looks like the Shooting Star is having some kind of trouble!"

Thomas heard the announcement and stopped. It was too late. Back at the starting line, Percy, Henry and Philip heard it too.

Gordon tried to keep up with his song, but then, just as Victor warned Thomas about, his boiler did burst.

"Hot! Hot! Hot! Hot! Oh!" groaned Gordon. His streamlining hood burst wide open and steam whistled out at an alarming rate. Slowly but surely, he slowed down. Flying Scotsman gave him a look of pity as he rushed past after Spencer, Axel and Etienne. Gordon tried to keep moving, but his wheels turned slower and slower by the second. The Fat Controller heard the announcement and felt terrible.

"It is now! His boiler has burst! He's slowing down! And The Shooting Star is out of the race! What a tragedy!"

And the Shooting Star came to a complete stop, officially losing the race to last place. "Oh, the Indignity..." Gordon moaned sadly.

The other four engines raced on. Spencer took the lead, but then Etienne suddenly shot ahead and crossed the finish line, officially breaking his old record and setting a new one. The announcer had shouted so much in the final moments, he collapsed as soon as the race was over.

After Etienne took the racing trophy, he left, along with Spencer and Axel to hang about the grounds or oversee the final big event. But Flying Scotsman stayed put, shocked by his brother's behaviour.

Thomas, meanwhile, started to make his way back to the main yard, lost in thought and feeling extremely betrayed now. He had jumped a bridge to reach and save Gordon and he didn't make it. What could he do now? Why was he sent all this way just to be ignored when he had an important thing to do for Gordon? And Percy was taking the Shunting Challenge…or so Thomas thought.

Just then, Gordon came slowly back to the starting line. He had enough puff to limp back with lines of steam whistling from the cracks in his boiler. The Fat Controller was most embarrassed now as he found out what happened, and Henry, Philip and Percy were even more disappointed. James had heard the loud announcements and came over to see what had happened.

"It was his safety valve, sir!" called Gordon's driver. "It wasn't even applied back at the Steamworks."

"What?!" exclaimed the Fat Controller. "But…"

"Victor did warn you, didn't he?!" said Percy. "I heard him calling to you, but you wouldn't wait, and you even said you weren't ready!"

"Well, Shooting Star!" called James crossly and sarcastically, not mentioning Thomas. "What a champion you are! Your friend and brother was ready to save you, and you just cost Sodor another chance! Its best one too!"

"What kind of controller doesn't check properly on his engines? The Shooting Star looked so promising!" said an audience member.

"Shooting Star? I don't think so! He doesn't look so grand now!" said another. "I've never heard of this Shooting Star. He doesn't look like a Sodor engine! What kind of disappointment is this? Streamliners are supposed to be fast, precise and perfect, but this one's boiler explodes!"

Henry had seen Thomas try to save Gordon. He was already annoyed by Gordon's ego for racing, but after seeing such a despised betrayal of an alliance, he had to speak his mind now. All the ladies and gentlemen suddenly heard his whistle and they looked down at him.

"You are ALL deceived!" Henry announced loudly. "THAT engine is a beastly IMPOSTER! Neither more, nor less than a conceited, common A-1 Pacific steam engine!" The Flying Scotsman heard Henry and tried to defend his brother, but he was cut off.

"The true engine who lies beneath all that fancy, yet misguided casing is none other than…our very wrongly proud…Gordon!" finished Henry.

"WHAT?" everyone in the audience exclaimed. "THAT'S Gordon?!" They all looked at the Fat Controller, who was now hiding his face in his hat. Then everyone except him got up and walked away to the shunting yard for the last big event. Gordon was even redder in the face now, but it didn't stop there. Henry had more to say.

"I should be very sorry this happened to you, but I'm not. If anything, I think you deserved it," he glowered.

"Why, peasant?" Gordon hissed.

"You really HAVE changed…Gordon!" Henry declared. "The No. 4 engine I met when I first came to Sodor would NEVER have gone back on his promises! He would never have disgraced Sodor's image like this! And he would NEVER have doubted the alliance he formed with Thomas! YOU are making Sudrian engines look like disloyal, undisciplined IDIOTS!"

The Fat Controller was most annoyed. He stood up and pointed directly down at the blue engine. "You…complete…ASS, Gordon!" he snapped. "You have completely ruined the show for me! I am deeply mortified to even show my face around the grounds!"

Flying Scotsman kept looking back at Henry, and at the Fat Controller as they kept firing down at Gordon. He had to stop all this verbal intake.

"Betrayer! Deceiver!" shouted Henry.

Then the Fat Controller began stepping down the seats and cursed Gordon. "CURSE YOU! CURSE YOUR DESIGNER! CURSE YOUR-" Another whistle loudly split the air and silenced the Fat Controller and Henry.

It was Flying Scotsman. He then bellowed in Gordon's favor, "For goodness sake, you two! If you don't like my brother, do not damage him any further than he already is! Leave him alone!" Then, he turned his attention to his brother. "As for you, I'm not ridiculing you, I'm speaking the truth: your friends were trying to help you out! If YOU would have just stopped bragging for one minute, you'd have seen it was ME who was right to warn you!" And with that, Flying Scotsman steamed away in a huff.

The Fat Controller huffed away from the seats and as he marched to the Shunting Challenge, he shouted once more. "Never again will I deal with Railway Shows…or streamlined RATS!"


Meanwhile, Emily was idling by herself not far from the shunting yard, feeling very embarrassed now. She had heard everything at the race track. Although the announcer declared her as an honorable mention and although she didn't come to win anything, she felt like Sodor would be laughed at all because of Gordon's ignorance. Even worse was hearing the Fat Controller curse one of his engines and even poke insult. Just then, she heard a deep, powerful voice.

"He-e-e-y, what's this? Hello, dear lady." Emily looked up and felt great excitement tingle through her. There was Gordon's brother, right in front of her. Emily nearly squealed out loud, but resisted so she could show decorum in front of such a famous engine. She had heard that Thomas met him, and now it was her turn for the first time in her life.

"H-hello…uh…" she stammered.

"You're looking absolutely beautiful. I'm the Flying Scotsman," he said. "And who are you?"

"I've heard about you…sir. I'm Emily, sir…I'm Sodor's emerald angel."

"Emerald Angel?" said Flying Scotsman. "Now how does such a lovely engine like you carry such a name?"

"Thomas gave me that name," said Emily.

"Really?" said Flying Scotsman. "I didn't think he'd come up with such a name. Why does he call you that?"

"Because…we're in love, Flying Scotsman," Emily admitted.

"Oh…well, I do apologize, madam," said Flying Scotsman. "I usually don't think very highly about engines from Sodor…but after seeing how determined…and how angry Gordon was just from hearing me try to stop him, Sudrian engines really are special…and that you and Thomas the Tank Engine are in love is absolutely endearing."

"Thank you, Flying Scotsman," said Emily, but secretly she was still thinking about Ashima. "What are Sodor's chances for the show now? The Fat Controller called Gordon a complete…uh…"

"I know," said Flying Scotsman.

"Gordon has caused a great deal of trouble, but I didn't think the Fat Controller would ever think of him that way…a streamlined rat…" she whispered.

Flying Scotsman smiled. "I'm sure he didn't mean it, Emily. Your controller was just very cross. Listen, Emily. Between you and me, I am so, so sorry for my brother's abysmal ignorance."

"That's alright, sir," said Emily. "I appreciate your courtesy, but he cost Sodor its best chance of having a victory. And I don't know if Percy can win his challenge. Sodor really isn't going to be praised today after what Gordon did…"

"You don't really have to call me 'sir', Emily," smiled Flying Scotsman. "Gordon did make Sodor look foolish just now, but to be fair, I lost the race too. Everyone wants to win these challenges…but despite my desire to win, when I saw Gordon burning up back there, his well-being meant more to me than finishing first. I'm sure you know by now, Emily, winning isn't everything. It doesn't prove worth or usefulness. If anything, these events just create rivals and sheer opposition against one another. To me, trophies and medals are utter bogus. Secretly, I despise contests and challenges. Just remember, you Sudrian engines are loved by many around Britain, especially in storybooks. I heard the announcer call you an honourable mention, and so did you."

"You're right, Flying Scotsman. At least he did admire me like Thomas would. I didn't really want Sodor to win everything. Just one trophy would be enough, and I just want Sodor to be acknowledged as a great railway with great engines…not a poor circus with disloyal, undisciplined upstarts."

"Don't even say that," said Flying Scotsman. "And between you and me…the main reason I didn't think highly about Sudrian engines is because of my brother. I may have visited him once when he was having worries about having enough tenders, but I always thought he dampened Sodor's honour with his false pride and boasting. But secretly, I've always admired Thomas, and right now, I admire you too."

"Thank you so much, Flying Scotsman," said Emily. "You have true dignity and respect."

"At your service, darling," said Flying Scotsman "Now…I would like to find that 'Falling Star' again, and talk more brotherly with him." He winked and huffed away to find his now-disfigured brother again.

Emily felt deeply honoured to meet Gordon's brother at last and what he said made her feel a little better. She was acknowledged for her beauty and she knew that winning isn't everything, and yet this was her first Great Railway Show ever with Thomas. At that moment, Ashima came along again.

"Emily, what's up?" she asked.

"It's Gordon, Ashima. I heard he lost the race. It isn't looking good for Sodor," said Emily.

"Well…I understand, Emily," said Ashima. "Henry came last, my friend Rajiv won for his looks and your streamlined friend came last…I can see Sodor only has one challenge left…I'll try to see Sodor win this round. Rajiv has already won something for India anyway." And she set off to get ready for the final event. Despite feeling special about meeting such an amazing engine, and despite Ashima's promise, Emily hurried to find Percy and coax him to win Sodor its last chance.

"Come on, Percy! You are our only hope! Sodor hasn't won anything yet…at least nothing trophy-related."

"No, I don't want to," said Percy. "I'm too nervous. And anyway, Thomas is here. He's the one who should be in the Shunting Challenge, Emily. Not me."

"Oh, there he is!" called Philip. "Thomas? Thomas!" But then…Vinnie bumped right into him. Emily gasped, remembering what Thomas said and scurried away with Percy.

"YOU AGAIN?" growled Vinnie.

"Sorry?" Philip chuckled nervously. He suddenly reversed as Vinnie followed…right to the coal chute where Carlos was refiling. He reversed too and coal spilled all over Vinnie.

"That really does it!" snarled Vinnie, and he gave chase upon Philip across the grounds. Meanwhile, Emily and Percy had called Thomas over to explain the challenge. But Thomas was still lost in thought and mixed feelings at his sudden failure to help Gordon.

"So, there are all these different trucks all over the yard, Thomas," said Percy.

"That's right," said Emily. "And you have to sort them into flatbeds, boxvans and tankers…" She lowered her eyebrows briefly as she saw Thomas staring blankly ahead. As Philip dashed past Thomas, chased by Vinnie, Emily went on. "…arranging three of each type in your sidings. Plus a brakevan and…" She could see Thomas was still staring blankly ahead and tried to refocus his attention.

"Are you listening, Thomas? You need to be ready," she said. Thomas heard Emily and suddenly regained all his senses.

"Me? Why me?" he exclaimed. "Percy's the one who's competing. Not me!"

"No…Thomas, I don't want to. I might lose," said Percy.

"Nonsense, Percy. You can do anything if you put your mind to it!" said Thomas. "Just…be who you are."

"I am being me, Thomas, and I want you to do the Shunting Challenge. I really, really do!"

"But look at me! I can't possibly compete!" said Thomas.

"Please, Thomas. You're Sodor's only hope…and besides, this challenge was meant for you in the first place. Take your chance and compete. You deserve it." The announcement came through and Thomas could see that Emily was right.

"OK. I'll do it…but I might lose too, you know."

"You? But you're not going to lose…are you, Thomas?" said Percy.

"Well, let's go, Percy," said Emily. "Let's all gather on that rail balcony to watch Thomas." She, Percy, James and Henry all gathered together while Thomas took his position for what he had always wanted to do ever since he got past his midlife crisis. At least Ashima's spirits were lifted when she saw him. Besides her, the other shunters were Ivan from Russia, Raul from Brazil and Gina from Italy.

"Thomas! You're here!" she exclaimed joyfully.

"Concentrate, Thomas," called Emily. "They're about to begin. This is Sodor's last chance." The whistle blew and the challenge began.

"Go, Thomas, GO!" called Percy.

"You can do it, Thomas!" called Henry.

"The Flatbeds! Get the flatbeds, over there!" called Emily. Thomas went for them, but Raul called "Points!" and got there first. "What? HEY!" shouted Thomas. "I was going for those!"

"It's a competition, silly. It's a race!" called Ashima. She and the other engines kept shouting "points!" to fetch another truck to arrange. Thomas finally did the same and started to get used to it as he fetched his first tanker.

"Alright, Thomas!" called Emily. "I know you can do it!" Slowly but surely, as the race kept going, Thomas got better and better. Soon, he arranged three of a few types of trucks in his siding and was about to take the lead.

"Come on, Thomas!" cheered Emily. "You can do it, Thomas!"

But as he backed up to start another row, Philip came reversing frantically through the shunting yards.

"What are you doing?" called Thomas.

"I'm trying to get away!" cried Philip. "POINTS!" Suddenly, Vinnie came crashing through Gina's flatbed, halting the race. Philip was bumped back, almost into a turntable well!

"Philip!" called Thomas. Ashima saw this and looked over to Philip.

"Oh dear, Shorty. It looks like the race is over for you," cackled Vinnie.

"Oh, yes. But this wasn't really a proper race," said Philip. Vinnie snickered as he came closer and closer…until someone caught his tender coupling and started pulling him back. "Huh?!"

"You leave my friend alone, you, BIG BULLY!" shouted Thomas as he began to pull Vinnie back. But Vinnie was big and powerful and not easy to move.

"So, you wanna play tug-of-war, do you?" he sneered. Ashima suddenly coupled behind Thomas

"Yes! Pull, Thomas! PULL!" The two engines worked together and began pulling Vinnie away. "Oh, you got me!" mocked Vinnie as he tried to move forward.

"Points!" called Thomas. Suddenly, Vinnie cleared the switch. "Huh?"

"Go, Philip!" called Thomas. Philip made his escape, singing, "Na-na-na-na-na!" But then Thomas' coupling broke and Vinnie was sent bumping off the rails, right into an electric pylon. It began to tip over.

"Get it off me!" Vinnie whined loudly.

"Take THAT, you big bully!" laughed Philip.

"Thomas! Watch out!" yelled Ashima. The pylon came tumbling over and Ashima pulled Thomas back just in time. Emily had seen everything and was both amazed and horrified by Thomas saving Philip and almost getting crushed by the pylon…she had also seen that Ashima had helped him out of that mess. Again, her concerns began to creep up.

"Thanks," breathed Thomas.

"No need to be thanking me, Thomas. After all, I am still going to beat you in the Shunting Challenge!"

"You are not!"

"Yes, I am… if you don't hurry up," said Ashima.

"HEY!" shouted Vinnie. "Are you gonna get me outta here, or what?"

"Hmm…NO!" snapped Thomas. "You tried to hurt my friend, so you can just stay there until the challenge is done!"

"I actually agree," said the head judge. "You, Vinnie are officially disqualified even from your efforts in the Strength Competition. We are going to pretend that North America was never represented. You were NEVER here!" All Vinnie could do was whine to himself until the race was back in business.

"Come on, Thomas!" cheered Philip along with the other Sodor Engines. Thomas and Ashima had now arranged three of each type of trucks on their sidings. They were tied for now, with just one thing left to do before a winner would be declared.

"All I need is my brakevan," said Ashima.

"That's all I need too!" said Thomas. He and Ashima reversed to their brakevan and shunted with all their might to finish the race and win. Ashima remembered talking to Emily and decided to make an exception. She let Thomas slowly pass her, giving him a chance.

Thomas was taking the win and Ashima indeed wanted to see him be cheered on for such a privilege…but then Thomas noticed Gina's upset flatbed…on Ashima's line.

"Ashima! Look out! Your track is blocked!" called Thomas. "Points, points!" He switched to Ashima's line while she switched to his.

"Thomas! What are you doing?!" exclaimed Ashima.

"You'll crash!" called Thomas. The other Sodor engines all protested.

"No, Thomas!" called Emily and the other engines. This got the Fat Controller's attention and what he saw shocked him. He had no idea that Thomas would show up…or give up a chance to win.

Thomas collided with the upset flatbed and Ashima passed the line, taking first position, but she was surprised and feeling sorry for Thomas. As for the Sodor engines, they were all shocked and very disappointed right now.

"He was winning!" exclaimed Emily.

"I told him she was trouble," groaned Philip. Emily wondered why Thomas let himself lose after being told by Percy to win for Sodor. She knew winning wasn't everything, but now, it seemed that Sodor failed its first Great Railway Show…and it was her first one too. She now thought that Sodor had nothing from this show…until she listened to what she heard down there…

"Thomas, you…you let me win!" gasped Ashima.

"I know," panted Thomas. "But…it wouldn't have been fair. Your track was blocked."

"But…I wouldn't have minded if you won, Thomas," said Ashima.

"Ashima, I didn't come to win anything," explained Thomas. "I only came to help my friends, including you. Winning is NEVER important. My friends and I don't need prizes. Being really useful makes us all winners."

Ashima couldn't believe what she had heard. "So…you were trying to be useful?" she asked.

"Yes," said Thomas. "I don't need to win to prove usefulness."

Emily didn't feel so disappointed now. She sighed to herself. "Trophies don't prove our usefulness. Thomas made a choice to help Gordon and Ashima. That's who he really is..."

The head judge suddenly spoke up in response to what Thomas said. "Thomas, that's exactly what I wanted to hear." Then the other two began whispering to him and answering questions.

"And, uh, wait a minute, what-what's this?" said the announcer. "The judges seem to be questioning the result. Ladies and Gentlemen, this is quite exceptional! The judges are about to make a special announcement!"

The head judge stepped forward and spoke. "With regards to the unusual events during the final moments of the Shunting Challenge…we would like to declare there to be two winners."

The Sodor engines all listened carefully. "Thomas…He has won…but how?" Emily thought.

"Ashima the Tank Engine from India for completing the challenge in the fastest time," said the judge. "And, in light of the sacrifice and efforts he has made to help another engine…Thomas the Tank Engine from Sodor!"

Thomas' heart filled with pride and thrill as he heard his friends and the audience rejoice his victory. Emily was particularly happy, smiling with joy at her star's victory. In that moment, she forgot her concerns again. Sodor did win something after all, and Thomas didn't even win it in the way they thought he would.

"Congratulations, Thomas!" whistled Ashima.

"Congratulations to you too!" laughed Thomas.

"Thomas the Tank Engine," said the Fat Controller's voice, but he sounded more surprised than angry. "I didn't realize that you were even here until after the Shunting Challenge started."

"I only came to bring Gordon his safety valve, sir…but I was too late," said Thomas. "And then Percy asked me if I would race in his place."

As Thomas and the Fat Controller spoke, Ashima quietly and swiftly slipped away to the judges to whisper something.

"Thomas helping me is more important than me winning," she said. "I think he deserves to take the trophy home to Sodor. Rajiv already won something for India. I'll go off on my own so you can give the trophy to Thomas…but I won't leave the show without seeing him off."

The judges were somewhat confused, but they managed to answer. "Hmm…we shall see, Ashima. Congratulations," they said. And Ashima went off on her own to hang out with the international engines or just be on her own until she'd return to Thomas.

Meanwhile, the Fat Controller was impressed with Thomas' explanation. "You mean…you were trying to be really useful? Is that what you're saying? Well, congratulations, Thomas. Because you were!"

The other Sodor Engines gathered together in rejoice. Thomas smiled when he heard Emily's rejoice above all the others. "Hooray!"

"He was just being himself, sir," said Percy. Thomas started to sing Ashima's song again, but when he looked beside himself…

"But…Where's Ashima? She didn't say goodbye."

"Don't worry, Thomas. She wouldn't leave like that. We'll look for her," said Philip.

"Of course, Thomas," called Henry. "Besides, we all won't need to go home until this evening. She'd surely stick around. Just hold on and maybe she'll reappear."

"So the last of the big events are over for today, ladies and gentlemen," said the announcer. Then he added, "Later on, join me for one final small event."

Meanwhile, still where he was, Thomas saw Gordon huffing slowly along, thin lines of steam escaping from the damage on his boiler. Then Thomas saw Flying Scotsman coming up behind.

"Congratulations, Thomas! I knew you could do it! I said you'd make it to the show, and you did, didn't you?" called Flying Scotsman before turning to Gordon. "Hey, Shooting Star!" he teased.

"Just call me Gordon. I've had quite enough of this streamlining lark," said the big blue engine in disgrace and embarrassment.

"Shame about the race, little brother, but you know? You engines from Sodor are made of sterner stuff than I thought," said Flying Scotsman as he huffed ahead.

"Why do you always have to call me little brother?! We're exactly the same size!" protested Gordon. Flying Scotsman just laughed.


The shunting diesels that had arranged the trucks around the yard came to get Vinnie out of his mess, saying nothing to him. After that, they cleared away the trucks from the yard. After approximately twenty minutes, another announcement came on.

"And now, ladies, gentlemen and engines. Please all gather together right here for the final small event."

All the engines heard the announcement and made their way to the main audience seats. The engines all arranged themselves on seven separate tracks. Some tracks had two engines each, some had three each. The only engine who did not come back for this event was Ashima. Thomas became a little more worried about his chance to say goodbye. The searching would have to wait.

Once the audience quieted down again, the announcer spoke again and Thomas managed to listen.

"Well, it has been a wonderful Great Railway Show this year. To the winners, congratulations for your efforts an accomplishments. To everyone else…except for one of you," he said looking notably at Vinnie. "It was a pleasure seeing such amazing and unique engines participate with us…Now, as we are all gathered here, the winners for each big event must be announced, and then…the main purpose of this small event…the Great Railway Show trophy must be awarded."

The head judge stepped up and recapped the winners of all the big events.

"The winner of the Strength Competition: Frieda from Germany." A small applause ensued for her.

"The Decorated Engine Parade: Rajiv from India…as well as a special mention for Emily from Sodor." A slightly longer applause was heard for both Rajiv and Emily.

"The Great Race: Etienne from France." Applause and some cheers were heard this time.

"And the winners of the Shunting Challenge, as we mentioned before: Ashima from India…wherever she is, someone give her regards if you find her, and Thomas from Sodor." Another loud applause ensued, but not as loud as it was when Thomas and Ashima made the win.

"Yes. Well done, Germany, well done, India and well done, France," said the judge. "However, recent events must be taken into account, and I have some last-minute praise to award. First, to Emily from Sodor. For an exceptionally strong voice of reason and moral support for your friends, your special mention will last for many years."

The audience cheered for Emily, making her smile to herself. Thomas heard the judge and felt a little better, but still wondered about Ashima as the judge continued.

"Second, to Gordon the Shooting Star. In spite of your accident on the race, for your exceptional efforts of speed and determination, you shall be acknowledged by future Railway Shows as well."

While another applause ensued, Gordon said nothing, still feeling very silly for making Sodor look foolish a while ago. What the judge said next made everyone go quiet.

"Third and finally…to Thomas the Tank Engine. For being a towering example of thinking before one's self. You proved this by trying to help Gordon, saving Philip from a rule-breaking upstart and helping your contender. You have shown that you are not only a participant for competitions, but you have an excellent sportsmanship."

Everyone cheered for Thomas. Even some of the internationals whistled for him.

"Assuming that the praise is all given out, I believe that the ultimate winner is to be announced." The other two judges picked up the trophy for the Great Railway Show.

"Sir Topham, come to the front desk please," said the announcer. The Fat Controller got up and shakily took the trophy into his hand.

"Congratulations, Sir Topham," they said as he slowly held it high and proud, as the head judge concluded the event.

"Sodor wins the Great Railway Show." The audience cheered and applauded louder than ever.

"YES!" rejoiced Henry. He and the other engines of Sodor whistled happily, except Thomas. He was still wondering about Ashima.

With Sodor awarded the Great Railway Show trophy, all the international engines decided to spend the rest of the day idling wherever they would until they had to go home for the evening. But several Sodor engines kept to their plan and searched for Ashima.

"Where could she be?" asked Thomas. "She didn't even come for the final event."

"We'll search everywhere, Thomas," said Henry. Then he spoke to the others. "Leave no siding unturned, no rail unchecked, and I suggest that NONE of us leave until she is found." The other engines agreed and split up all through the show grounds. Everyone that is, except Emily and Thomas. Thomas wasn't feeling too left out about Ashima…yet. He just wanted to spend some time with Emily…and admire her decorations more. Emily came up beside him to comfort him and finally spend some free time with him.

"Emily…can you and I find somewhere out of the way?" he asked.

"Of course, Thomas. Why?" asked Emily.

"I just want to be with you after having so little time to do so." Emily agreed and went with him where no other engines were. Thomas went onto the turntable where Axel was earlier and turned round to face Emily. After that, they went behind one of the audience stands where they wouldn't be seen.

"Well, Emily," he said. "I do hope Ashima didn't leave."

"She really wouldn't leave without seeing you off, Thomas," said Emily. "Try to cheer up." As she spoke, Thomas thought he heard very slight traces of concern in her voice. Emily was still having tiny thoughts back to when she saw Ashima and Thomas save Philip. Thomas didn't know this, but looking into her eyes, he could see traces of uneasy energy being expressed through them. He thought she was still disappointed over Sodor's otherwise ill luck. He decided to cheer up for her and help her feel better too.

"You cheer up too, Emily," he said. "I know Sodor didn't do as well as he hoped, but we won something in the end. You were given a special mention, we won the main trophy for the show."

"Hmm. Yes, I think you're right," said Emily. "Flying Scotsman was right. Winning isn't everything." In that moment, Thomas forgot about Ashima and was quite shocked at what he heard.

"Whoa! Wait a minute…YOU met Flying Scotsman too?!"

"Oh yes," said Emily. "Just after Gordon lost, he met me shortly before we fetched you to take your challenge."

"How was he with you?" asked Thomas. "He doesn't think very highly about Sudrian engines."

"Oh, he does now," said Emily. "He really admires me and our relationship. Considering that he's Gordon's brother…he is a very true gentleman. I was so fascinated by him, I actually called him sir, although he told me it wasn't necessary."

"Very nice," said Thomas. "Did you enjoy the Decorated Parade?"

"Oh, I really did, Thomas," said Emily. "I spoke with all my fellow contenders. Particularly with that big red one from China…Yong Bao."

"That's his name?" asked Thomas.

"Yes. He was very kind to me…and he's brave too." Emily briefly told Thomas about how he saved hundreds of passengers from an accident…but she did not mention any dragons.

"I see," said Thomas. "So you made some friends here today."

"That's right, Tommy," she smiled. "But…how are you feeling about what happened today, what with all the tension of winning and losing?"

"I'm trying not to think about it, Emily. Right now, I just want to forget this otherwise challenging, embarrassing, hectic day…will you help me?" asked Thomas.

This gave Emily an idea. She checked once more to see if anyone else was around, and she saw no one.

"So…you want me to help you, do you?" she asked smoothly. "Look at me, Thomas. Do my decorations help?"

"Oh…Emily…" shuddered Thomas, beginning to see the temptress within. Usually he wasn't this nervous…but with all those decorations, it was like Emily's allusive nature was multiplied several times.

"I guess we should forget about today…for a while," Emily swooned, slowly coming forward. Thomas backed up a little, getting jittery seeing those delicate lines of gold on her smokebox…and the green paint on her funnel.

Emily smiled, showing all her white teeth. "Come here, Tommy…come on…" she giggled happily. Thomas' eyes widened and he backed up more…until he hit buffers behind him. Emily then buffered up to Thomas, wearing an alluring smile. Thomas shut his eyes tight, feeling very jittery after staring at those decorations. Emily then closed her eyes, opened her mouth, then slowly and sweetly licked his cheek.

Thomas opened his eyes again, then spun them around in circles, feeling very light and fuzzy inside. He took a deep breath in…then out slowly and meditatively. When he looked at Emily again, she giggled sweetly.

"Does that help?" she asked.

"Y-yes…" Thomas replied. "But we really shouldn't be like this at a show…at least not to the extremes."

"Very well," said Emily as she kissed him more gently on his cheek. "How's that?"

"Hmm…not bad," winked Thomas. "But lovely enough." Emily giggled again. The two of them spent a few minutes together, exchanging smiles and a few light kisses…until suddenly, Percy and Philip came along. Thomas and Emily stopped kissing in time for them to come up alongside.

"Excuse me, Emily…can't you help us look for Ashima?" said Philip.

"Uh…alright, Philip," said Emily. "I'll come."

"Please let me know if you find her," said Thomas. "I'm beginning to worry more."

"Alright, Thomas," said Percy as Emily left to help.


Time passed. All the engines kept looking around the grounds for any signs of Ashima. Thomas hoped someone would come back and let him know…but no one did. With every hour that slipped by, he became more forlorn. While she helped in the search, Emily began thinking about Ashima yet again. What would she and Thomas do if they met up again? After seeing them do so much here, she had no idea what direction it would go in.

Finally evening set in and all the international engines were on their way back home to their own countries…but there was still no sign of Ashima. By now, as Thomas refilled on water, he was feeling down in the dust again. Ashima had taught him a valuable lesson back on Sodor, and he had enjoyed himself while being with her…and she didn't even say goodbye? At that moment, all the Sodor engines gathered beside him. Thomas hoped they had good news. But…

"I don't know, Thomas. I've looked everywhere, but I can't see her," said Philip.

"I don't know where she is," said Emily as Gordon came along with the Fat Controller and the trophy.

"Alright everybody, fill up those boilers and coal-bunkers. It's time we went back to Sodor. We still have a railway to run."

"Yes sir," said Emily.

"Of course, sir," added Philip. They all started making their way home, leaving Thomas even lonelier…

"Oh dear," he thought. "What kind of farewell is this? She has left!" But then he heard a singing voice. There was Ashima, filling up her own coal bunker. Thomas felt much better. So she didn't leave after all.

"Ashima. I thought…maybe, you'd gone," said Thomas.

"You didn't think I'd leave without saying goodbye, did you?" said Ashima. But…I do have to catch that ferry and go home," she added sadly.

"Oh…but that means we don't have to say goodbye yet! You can come back to Sodor and catch your rail ferry form there. It stops at Brendam docks, remember?" said Thomas.

"Good idea, you are clever. Sometimes," complimented Ashima.

As Ashima and Thomas started on their way, Thomas started to sing again. After all his experience and inspiration with Ashima, he now realized he didn't need to be something he wasn't. He could only be Thomas the Tank Engine, the Fat Controller's No. 1 and Emily's cobalt star. That was the best Thomas there was, and always would be.

As Ashima sang along with Thomas, he was reminded, just like Emily, he didn't need to be altered or changed in any way. When Emily wished she could be like Caitlin, Victor had told her she was a great engine just as she was, with her large, beautiful wheels, her funnel's ring, her emerald paintwork and her lovely smile. Now, Thomas knew being himself was unique in and of itself. His six, small wheels, short stumpy funnel, short, stumpy boiler and short, stumpy dome were all what made him who he was.

Soon, all the Sodor engines joined Thomas in the song. Thomas learned to be only himself, and the other engines learned a valuable lesson: Be who you are and go far. Indeed, they all had come a long way in their lives and they could go so much further too. Even Gordon sang along as he passed Flying Scotsman, who smiled at his brother as they all left the show and went on their way back to Sodor.

All evening and on into the night, the engines sang their way back home. Thomas and Ashima, the winners led the way, Gordon and Philip followed, then James and Emily, and lastly, Henry and Percy. Like Thomas and Emily learned they didn't need to change their shape or be any different, the other engines agreed…especially Gordon. He decided he would have his streamlined form reversed back to his A-1 Pacific form…the Gordon who was an ally of Thomas all along.

As they crossed Vicarstown Bridge, the engines all looked forward to seeing their friends again. At Vicarstown Station, Toby and Oliver were awaiting their friend's return and a crowd of people were cheering for the engines' return and Thomas' victory. And as they all pulled in, a camera flashed and was kept to be eventually put in the morning Sodor papers.

After the excitement eased off, Thomas decided to allow Ashima a place to rest for the night.

"Ashima," he said. "You'll need to sleep before you catch the ferry tomorrow…why don't we take you to our sheds?"

"Really, Thomas? Thank you," said Ashima.

Gordon, however had his mind set on somewhere else, suddenly feeling nervous about what would come next for him. "I am going to the Steamworks…to break free of this…ridiculous streamlining casing. Flying Scotsman was right." While the other engines made their way home, Gordon went by himself to the Steamworks, nervous about what Victor would say.

After returning to the yards, the other engines came to Tidmouth Sheds.

"We're home," said Thomas. "Here, Ashima, this is the shed we live in…Tidmouth Sheds."

"Well, Thomas," said Ashima. "You have a cozy shed with your family."

"Would you like to sleep here with us…with your new friends?" asked Thomas.

"Of course, Thomas," said Ashima. Emily heard this and felt worried again. Secretly, all the way back home, her concerns had been growing stronger. Thomas had been beside Ashima all the way home and now Thomas was offering her to sleep with the other engines. She tried not to think about it as she knew Ashima would be leaving anyway.

Soon all the engines were settled in their berths. Ashima backed in beside Thomas, who also had Emily on the other side.

"Well, you two," he said. "You've both done me a lot of good. Ashima, you really showed me a lot of support and kindness to help me break past an uncomfortable barrier and helped me remember who I am." Ashima just smiled.

Emily tried to get Thomas' attention back to her. "Uh…Thomas," she said. "Can I tell you something?"

"Yes, Emily, what is it?" asked Thomas.

"I didn't tell you before…but I can say it now. When the Fat Controller chose me to be decorated…I asked him about you going to the show."

"You…you did?" asked Thomas.

"Yes. He revealed to me that you were certainly going, then told me to keep it a secret…I knew you'd be going all along."

Thomas was surprised by this. He did not expect this to happen. Given that his hopes were dashed after his accident, he felt more thankful that Emily stuck by him through this event.

"Well…" he said. "I did not know that…thank you, Emily. In spite of my disappointment, I'm happy that you wanted to surprise me. In the end, I guess I really loved this show, and I'm glad you did well too."

Hearing Thomas say this relieved Emily's concerns a little as she managed to smile. "Thanks, Thomas."

"Well," said Ashima. "It was a true pleasure meeting such wonderful engines like yourselves. Thank you all."

"You're most welcome," the other engines said together. And eventually, all the engines at Tidmouth Sheds drifted to sleep.


Meanwhile, at the Steamworks, Victor and Kevin were waiting for Gordon to arrive for the morning so they could reverse his streamlining appearance back to who he was. Then, to their surprise, they saw him come right there in the night. He slowly huffed inside, looking shameful and nervous. Some lights went on and Victor could see the damage dealt on Gordon's boiler. He also saw how silly Gordon felt.

"I will not say 'I told you so.' I can see it did not go well for you," said Victor. "But you can't say I didn't warn you either. We will get to repairing your boiler and removing all that casing early tomorrow morning."

Gordon said nothing as he found a dark spot in the Steamworks to fall asleep along with Victor and Kevin.

Sometime later, Edward came along. He had not gone to the show or heard anything about it and wanted to see if any of the contenders had come here to go back to normal, like James and Emily, or even Thomas.

Edward looked around, then suddenly gasped quietly…he saw Gordon in his Shooting Star form. Something twitched in Edward's heart. He never imagined any engine would change their shape like Emily once thought of. He very slowly huffed towards Gordon…but he couldn't buffer up because of the streamlining skirt. Edward let off steam quietly, waking Gordon up. He saw the old engine looking intently into his eyes.

"…Gordon?" whispered Edward.

"Yes…it's me, Edward," murmured Gordon.

"Come onto the turntable…where I can get a look at you," Edward said inquisitively.

As Gordon slowly huffed to the Steamworks turntable. Gordon turned round slowly in a complete circle while Edward took a good look at his big friend. He looked at the skirt covering his buffers, the star emblem on either side of him, the top layer covering his funnel and his sleeker tender. When Gordon turned a complete circle, Edward looked a little forlorn.

"You've changed," he said with disappointment. "You're not the No. 4 engine I met when you first came here."

"Edward, please," whispered Gordon, slightly pleading. "I was foolish. I didn't ask to be streamlined. The Fat Controller thought it would be a good idea after Thomas mentioned the topic. Thomas actually wanted to be streamlined."

"I think the Fat Controller was right to choose you over Thomas to change a shape," said Edward. "I see your boiler is popped open."

"Yes…" said Gordon sadly. He told Edward all about when he ignored Thomas and Flying Scotsman's warnings and how he had to drop out of the race and cost Sodor another chance to win something.

"You refused to accept your real name from your brother…and even your ally," Edward said. "Whatever has happened to you, Shooting Star? You have to stop acting like-"

"A 'bossy boiler'? Please, Edward!" he begged quietly. "My name is Gordon! I'm done with this new shape. I want my old life back! That's why I'm here!"

Edward could see Gordon's acceptance of defeat. "Very well," he said. "I'm glad you're going back to who you really are. Do what you must to break away from this barrier." And then Edward left to turn in at Wellsworth.

The next morning around 7:00 a.m. Thomas and Emily woke up along with Ashima. Thomas suddenly remembered what had to happen.

"Well…" said Thomas. "I guess you'll have to leave today."

"I know, Thomas," said Ashima. "But don't worry. We'll see each other off properly."

At that moment, the Fat Controller came along. "Ah, Ashima!" he said. "I have spoken to the Dock Manager. He says your ferry will arrive at 1:30 p.m. today. Be sure to be there on time."

"Yes sir," said Ashima.

"Now, Thomas, Emily and James…you must all go to the Steamworks to have those decorations and extra paint removed. And you, Thomas must have your dents and buffer beam mended."

"Alright, sir," said Thomas. "I'll help you later, Ashima. There's plenty of time."

The three engines went to the Steamworks where Gordon's streamlined shape was being removed. Thomas was to be repainted after his mess-up and his buffers were to be repaired. Emily had her decorations to remove so she'd just be emerald with gold lining, as did James with his decorations.

James huffed into one side of the Steamworks, then Thomas and Emily came in on the other side.

Once Thomas and Emily were settled in, workmen arrived with many buckets of paint to start from the beginning. They scraped the paint off Thomas and Emily until they were both in their bare, grey form except for their smokeboxes and boiler bands, like Thomas was when he first came to Sodor and when Emily was repainted with a blue undercoat.

They looked at each other, then blushed a deep red. Emily remembered how she wondered what Thomas would think if he saw her like this, but when she looked again, he looked at her with great composure and respect.

"It's only paint, Emily," said Thomas. "We'll soon be a handsome cobalt blue and a beautiful emerald green again."

"We shall be, Tommy," smiled Emily. "You are a true gentleman."

Eventually the painters covered Thomas and Emily with an undercoat first. And then started to put on their main coat. As Thomas looked over to Emily, a little drop of emerald paint landed on her little nose, making her look down at it.

"Oh!" said one of the painters as they wiped the paint off her nose. Emily couldn't help but giggle, and Thomas smiled, remembering how the same thing happened to him upon his arrival.

After some time, both engines were back in their original coats of blue and red stripes for Thomas and emerald with yellow stripes for Emily. She went to wait outside for Thomas while he had a new buffer beam installed. Eventually, Thomas was fully repaired and back outside beside Emily. For a few minutes, they said nothing and just thought about all the events at the Great Railway Show.

"Well, Thomas," murmured Emily. "I'm so happy you won by helping your friends instead of competing."

"Thanks, Emily," said Thomas. "We don't need prizes to prove our character. We just need to be who we are."

"Yes," said Emily thoughtfully. Eventually, James came out, back in his original red.

"Hey, hey! Look who's coming out!" he announced.

"Here I come," said a voice from inside the Steamworks. "Am I ready this time?"

"Yes, Gordon, you are," said Victor. Thomas and Emily looked back…steam came out of the doors, and then, there was Gordon, back in his old A-1 Pacific form. His original boiler was still there and his buffer beam and black smokebox were still there too. And his tender was back to what it was too.

"Oh, Gordon…" murmured Thomas. "You're back."

"That's right, little Thomas," said Gordon. "This is much better! And next time, I know never to crave for a new shape like THAT!"

At that moment, Percy arrived with Ashima. "Thomas! It is 12:00 now! The ferry might be here soon. We don't want Ashima to miss it," said Percy.

"Oh dear! Must get going! Come on, Ashima, you can't be late!" said Thomas, and he set off with the two engines, leaving Emily on her own.

"What about me?" she asked. "Huh…"

The three engines hurried to Brendam Docks to catch Ashima's ferry in time. When they got there, it was now 12:35. Thomas sighed with relief that they had time to spare, but he began to feel jumpy again. He was about to say goodbye to Ashima, possibly forever.

"Oh…oh dear…" he said. "You're gonna leave soon, Ashima."

"Don't be sad, Thomas," said Ashima. "We knew this had to happen."

"I'll just go around here slowly and look for your ferry for when it arrives," said Thomas as he set off on his own. Another long while passed. While Thomas kept wondering the docks, looking for the ferry, he heard familiar voices. He went along until he saw Cranky lifting familiar looking crates. The same ones Diesel tried to use in his plan.

"Try another one, Cranky," said Paxton. Cranky lifted the crate up, only for Paxton to find nothing. "No. He's not under that one."

"Come on," said Cranky.

"Here?" asked Paxton, looking at another one.

"That's a good one," said Cranky. But no luck.

"Uh…no. not there," said Paxton.

"Are you sure he came down here?" asked Cranky.

"Yes. We were following him," said Paxton. "Everyone look for a talking crate." Den and Dart suddenly came past Thomas, calling for Diesel. Thomas was left puzzled for a few minutes…until he heard a cry for help and a ship horn.

"Over here!" called a voice from on board the ship. Thomas looked out to sea and saw a ship full of crates leaving the port. Also staring in awe at the ship were den, Dart, Paxton and Cranky.

"I'm full of surprises!" they heard Diesel whine. Thomas said nothing at first…then…

"Cinders and Ashes! How shocking! Diesel is gone from Sodor!" But then Thomas gasped…then started chortling with laughter. "He-he-he…he's gone? Ha-ha! He's gone! HA-HA-HA! HE'S GONE!" But another ship horn stopped his laughter. There was Ashima's ferry. "Oh dear…time to say goodbye now," he said sadly as he came back to find her. Ashima heard the ferry and was ready to go.

"Well…goodbye, Percy," said Ashima as she went on her way. She approached the dock's drawbridge backwards, just like how she did when she first came here.

"Thomas? Where are you? I don't want to bump into you again!" she called.

"Over here, Ashima," said his voice. Ashima looked and there he was, looking rather sad now. He saw the ferry coming closer and closer to the drawbridge.

"This is it…" he whimpered. "You're going home now."

"I know, Thomas…but I'll be fine," promised Ashima. "Thomas…before I leave, I just want to thank you again for meeting me and giving me a positive experience in the short time we've had together. And seeing as I'm leaving now…one more piece of advice from me: Always love your dear Emily. She is a blessing and a gift for you to cherish. Never let go of her."

Thomas smiled a little. "Aww…thanks, Ashima," he said. "And I promise I won't."

"And one last thing, Thomas," she said. She slowly came toward him…then buffered up to him, touching her nose to his, saying nothing. Thomas didn't know what to think but remained silent, just letting Ashima hold her spot for a few moments.

"What a great friend you've been, Thomas," she murmured. But then she heard the drawbridge lower and she reversed away.

"I must go now," she said. "Thank you again, Thomas." And she reversed over the drawbridge…and onto her ferry.

Tears filled Thomas' eyes as the ship left. Although he didn't like his first interaction, Ashima had given him such a change for the better, he missed her already. But she was wearing a smile and winked. Maybe one day, she could visit or just work on the mainland sometime…or maybe Thomas would go on a big adventure and see her again. Only time would tell.

Although he was crying, Thomas managed to smile with some confidence. "G-goodbye, Ashima," he whimpered happily.

"It's not really goodbye, Thomas," said Ashima. "With any luck, one day, we may see each other again." She gave Thomas one final wink as her ferry left the port and set out to sea. Thomas continued looking out to sea until finally, it vanished over the horizon.

"Goodbye, Ashima," he whispered once again. After a moment or two, he finally spoke more confidently.

"Gotta cheer up. Emily can help…oh my gosh! Emily!" he suddenly remembered running off so suddenly from the Steamworks. "I'll have to reassure her once my work is done!" Thomas left the docks and did whatever work he needed to all day and into the evening.

Finally, Thomas made his way slowly back to Tidmouth Sheds to find Emily waiting for him, and looking a little uneasy again. Thomas reversed into the berth beside her before she spoke.

"Thomas, there you are," said Emily. "I was wondering where you've been…besides whatever work you had to do, why did you leave so quickly with nothing to say when Percy and Ashima came along?"

"Oh…sorry, Emily," said Thomas. "I just wanted Ashima to catch her ferry on time. She's left now, bound for India."

Emily sighed quietly to herself, secretly relived that Ashima was gone. By now, she had gotten over her disappointment of the Great Railway Show. It had been an envious and even embarrassing event for her and after winning the trophy for Sodor, she felt better enough to move on. However, she felt very conflicted by now. She remained silent for a few moments, thinking. Ashima had been a good friend to Emily and she truly did miss her, but Thomas did spend a great deal of time with Ashima ever since she came to Sodor. Emily didn't worry too much about it at first, but after Thomas and Ashima worked together in the Shunting Challenge, and especially after he went home beside her and let her sleep at Tidmouth Sheds, and after Thomas dashed off with her to see her off, Emily was rather worried about Thomas' feelings of love.

In that moment, Emily felt more revered in displaying affections…she both respected and feared giving it to Thomas. She suddenly looked at him for a moment, more sweetly this time.

"Thomas…we should move on to normal life again. Why don't I help you feel better…with our routine?" she asked.

"Thanks, Emily. I'd like that very much," said Thomas. So Emily turned round to his berth. She buffered up to him and kissed his lips, a little desperately. She opened her mouth and softly rubbed her tongue against his lips. Thomas responded by letting her tongue in and letting it touch his own, then they let their tongues dance gently together in endearing kisses.

Emily was really trying to flush Ashima out of Thomas' memory by kissing him so passionately, but Thomas didn't seem to be aware of her concerns and just enjoyed her kisses as much as he always did. However, Emily's plan was working. Thomas was forgetting about her now that she had gone and continued to kiss Emily back. To feel his angel's kisses always helped him feel better when he wasn't doing well, and he did feel happy to get back to normal life again…for now.

Eventually, they heard the whistles of some engines coming back and decided to stop for the night.

"Well…that was lovely. Thank you, Emily. I love you," said Thomas.

Emily felt better hearing those words. "You're welcome, Thomas. I love you too." And with that, Emily returned to her berth and she and Thomas went to sleep as the other engines quietly settled in.

Ashima would not come back to Sodor ever again. As such, Emily felt mostly relived. For the most part, she managed to heal her fears and move on…but at the same time in the very back of her mind, the thought of Thomas finding a new girlfriend was still flickering ever-so slightly. Emily spent quite a while wondering if Thomas had been changed by Ashima in any way. Thomas didn't notice Emily's concerns, but he didn't love Ashima anyway. He was just happy that all the fuss and excitement was over and done for.

So the first big event came and went through Thomas and Emily's lives. Some unexpected things certainly came from this one. A new female came and went through Thomas' life and Emily had been to her first Railway Show ever. But in a few days' time, a few other, more unordinary and maybe dramatic events would follow for Thomas and Emily. Both the good, and the bad.


Long overdue story is long overdue and off the backlog. As you can tell, the seeds of doubt are growing rapidly within Emily, and soon they sprout. The cracks will grow bigger, as you will see in the next story. Now we're finally getting into the stories I've been pining to tell for so many months. Prepare yourselves, for the next few stories will be dark, scarring, terrifying, emotional and tragic. Perhaps not exactly in that order.

But among all those dark tales, there will be some light with our traditional Christmas story. This year our Christmas Special will be; "Thomas' Christmas Nativity". Hope you like light and dark comedy/humor, cause this story will combine both of them. You can most likely assume what will happen thanks to the Nativity part of the title. You'll see for yourself this Christmas. Until next time, leave your reviews and we'll see you soon with "Goodbye to Yesterday".