It had been several days since Duck and Oliver (and Toad) began work on the North Western Railway. Dawn cracked across a cloud laden sky as the crisp morning air ushered in a particularly distinct autumn day. Tidmouth shed was bustling as the sound of car doors slamming from all corners of the yard signaled several engineers reporting for an 'All-Hands' meeting at the roundhouse.
Sir Topham Hatt disembarked from his driver side door as he purposefully placed his Top Hat upon his head. Grabbing his lapels to adjust his coat, he nodded in affirmation as he made his way over to the turntable.
The station master and yard manager of Tidmouth had both set up a small stage of crates and were looking over a clipboard of notes as The Controller arrived on the scene. They both stood and greeted promptly as the sound of creaking shed doors opening ushered in the start of the day.
"I want to thank you all for reporting at such an inopportune hour. Yesterday saw it's hectic moments and today is proving to be no different."
Sir Topham Hatt stood upon his stage before his workers as they listened, occasionally yawning, but still attentive.
"I'd also like to officially welcome, for those who haven't met them yet, Montague, *ehem* my apologies, Duck and Oliver."
A small prompted 'arf' from the wee pup at Oliver's feet drew Sir Topham's eyes.
"Ah and of course Toad, Oliver's service dog whom we're very pleased to have here."
The dog in question resumed panting gently.
"We have some good news today that I'd like to share with you all."
He gestured broadly at two familiar faces who were surrounded by friends with arms draped around them.
"In addition to our new arrivals, we also welcome back friends whom we're excited to see. Emily has decided to return from leave and will be joining us back on Number 12 starting today."
A chorus of cheers and applause as she gave a light wave and a big smile at those supporting her.
"And as you all can see, we are grateful to have both Edward and Douglas back in our ranks as well."
This news was met with a thunderous amount of noise and individuals whooped and stomped. Donald in particular shaking his twin and shouting, "Tha's my brother!"
Sir Topham waited for the volume to die down as he felt the ovation had been well earned.
"We are grateful for their recovery and couldn't be more pleased to see our full numbers back in action. Which, if I may, leads me to my next order of business."
Everyone regained their composure and focused back on their Controller, but not without a few more pats on the backs of those who returned.
"Now of our fleet, Numbers 2, 3, and 10 are still in the process of their overhauls. Now it was to my surprise that Victor had initially given me the timeline that we'd have at least two of the engines back by the start of the Holiday season. But! As I've recently been informed, we should see all three engines back in steam as soon as the end of this month!"
Another round of applause as Rebecca nudged Henry who'd dark circles beneath his eyes couldn't hide his smile from glazing his face.
"That being said, we are also fortunate to say that today we officially welcome to our railway two new engines, both acquired from the Great Western Railway at a generous discount. An auto tank as well as a pannier"
Oliver and Duck couldn't contain their glee and clapped each other on the back. Other's could be heard whispering, "tank engines? More tank engines?" as Sir Topham held up a hand to signal he wasn't finished.
"These engines have been inspected and fitted to our request, and it's with this development I want to discuss our next plan of action. This won't affect all of you, but I expect support as we enter this period of accommodation."
One could hear a pin drop as everyone listened intently.
"The first part of this change will be utilizing our new 'shadowing' form of training. With Edward and Douglas coming back to the railway, we want you both to take it slow. So we'll be pairing you both with Duck and Oliver respectively to put our new tank engines through their paces. This operation will only last until Numbers 2 and 10 are fully in steam, so please take advantage of the opportunity to learn and encourage."
Oliver looked back at the twins who were both grinning back while Duck gave a tentative smile to Edward who kindly returned it.
"And finally! As I'm sure you're all eager to get to work, we have one last new development. The recent railway trust grant that we received left enough in the budget for us to be able to experiment with a new addition to the railway."
Sir Topham Hatt turned and pulled a silver whistle from his vest pocket. He released 3 long pitches as a mechanical roar sounded throughout the yard. From behind the yard manager's office on a siding crept a large, black box of an engine.
"I'd like to present to you BR Class 08, an oil burning engine. One of the new modern engines produced on the mainline."
The engine crawled along the line until it jutted to a stand still at the well of the turntable. From the box cab descended a man who's very disposition sent a chill through the crowd.
"I'd like to introduce you to our new engine's handler De–"
"Call me Diesel sir. If you wouldn't mind." An oily voice oozed from the man.
"Who would willingly call themselves diesel?" Duck whispered to Oliver.
"Tha's rich comin' from a duck" Donald whispered teasingly, having overheard.
"I hope you will all make him feel welcome. Now! We haven't any time to waste! We have a railway to run after all! Duck and Edward, Oliver and Douglas, come see me about information and transportation to your new engines, everyone else. Make the North Western proud!"
Sir Topham Hatt stepped down as everyone idled to start the day. An unrest brewing amongst the team as the air of change settled in with the autumn chill.
So, I know this was essentially an exposition dump which is never fun. But I felt now that all of my elements are in play, we might as well bring everyone up to speed on where we're going from here!
Also, diesel? What!? I know I know. But who knows what to expect from him. ;)
Thanks as always for reading! -REN