On the Island of Sodor, this year had been a most spectacular turnout for Thomas and Emily, having celebrated their tenth anniversary of being in love since they came forth with their first kiss to the lips in Knapford Sheds under those fortunate circumstances. A few days had passed since this anniversary, and so life on Sodor went on as usual since that most special occasion. After some initial difficulty earning trust from some of the engines, particularly Gordon and James, Sonny had managed to find his place on Sodor and make his mark as a helpful and trustworthy engine after saving Diesel from a bad accident, prior to which Diesel had manipulated Sonny into taking his load for him and praying on his sense of being misunderstood. All in all, the engines were impressed with Sonny's accomplishment, and so his second chance had been fulfilled quite well.
In the meantime, David had gone back to a serious mood and had been keeping busy with his newfound R.I.F.L.E. establishment, determined to uphold his pledge to the Admiral to keep Sodor safe from any further atrocities. After ensnaring Baz and Bernie in solitary restraint, David had been having talks on and off with Detectives Phelps and Gallagher and the SPD Chief, while also making contact with a few people on the Mainland, and had even approached the Royal Guard of England about Baz and Bernie's matter. Through all of this, David was putting together the puzzle and figuring out the best way to bring both thieves to justice that would fit all their crimes…and after a few days of putting everything together, he had conjured a rather inventive idea, which Emily would soon take part in herself.
One day at Arlesburgh around noon, shortly after Sonny's second chance had been fulfilled, David just about had everything arranged. All that remained now was his part to play with Emily. Beatrice had been following all the details since the start, and she knew her son was very set in his beliefs on this matter.
"So, David…this is your plan, then?" she remarked. "And Emily…will she be going?"
"Yes. I intend to take her there today if I can, Mum," said David. "Then eventually, we'll have that thieving beast ensnared and put to justice as I planned from the start."
"Well, David. I do hope your plan works out," said Beatrice.
"So do I, mother," said David. "But before that…I think you and I deserve a little time together while we can. What say I take you for lunch?"
Beatrice smiled. "I would really like that, David. Perhaps at Tidmouth Town Square?"
"My goodness, that's what I was thinking, Mum," David smiled. "Come right with me, then."
Beatrice went with David through the village and on towards the bus terminal where Algy, a blue bus and one of Bertie's friends, was about to depart. That's when David and Beatrice looked and saw Captain Joe waving to them. David stopped and Captain Joe came over.
"David. We've noticed you and your crew have been very preoccupied," said Captain Joe. "What with putting things together about those two thieves and all. Is there any chance of you helping us through the harbor today?"
"I'm afraid not, Captain Joe," said David. "I've put together all my plans of managing those two thieves properly. There are still a few things for me to do before I can resume any work here."
"Very well, Captain Rider," said Captain Joe. "Where are you off to now, then?"
"Must dash," said David. "I'm taking mother for lunch at Tidmouth Town Square."
"See you later, Captain Joe," Beatrice waved as she and David got onboard Algy and he set off down the road.
Meanwhile, throughout that morning, Thomas had been busy on his Branch Line, and Emily had been keeping busy on the Main Line, both of them still beaming happily after their tenth anniversary together. But over the days that had passed, Emily had been thinking off and on herself about David and what he could be thinking regarding those two thieves. And even today, she was wondering if she would play any part in it or not, and she would find out much sooner than expected.
Shortly after twelve noon, Emily came back to Knapford Station to collect another train, when she saw Thomas come back too, wearing quite a smile as he made ready.
"Hello, Thomas," said Emily. "Keeping well so far?"
"Oh, yes, Emily," Thomas replied. "And it's just about to get better!"
"Better?" asked Emily. "Well, you are looking excited. What's going on for you?"
"I just have a small goods train to take to Tidmouth Town Square," said Thomas. "But after that, I've got a very special job."
"What? What is it?" asked Emily.
"I don't know yet, but the Earl says it's most special indeed," said Thomas. "I have to be at Ulfstead Castle this afternoon."
"Ulfstead? Hmm. I wonder what it will be for you," said Emily. "As for me, well...I've been thinking about a few other things…quite different from any job we'd be doing."
"What do you mean, Emily?" asked Thomas.
"Well, Thomas. Ever since you and I had our ten year anniversary, I've been hearing now and again that there's been plenty of talk about David, and how he intends to deal with those two thieves from the World of Tomorrow."
Thomas suddenly remembered and became more practical about the matter.
"Oh…Baz and Bernie?" he asked. "Those two crooks."
"That's right, Thomas," said Emily's driver Paul. "David's been at it for a few days now. Word has it that he's mostly been focusing on Baz first, since he's the one who orchestrated all the thieving activity, while Bernie most naively went along with all of it."
"Yes, I know," said Thomas. "Any other reason you've been thinking about that, Emily?"
"Well, over the past few days, it's been making me wonder…if maybe I might play a part in it or not," said Emily. "But will I, when and how?"
This made Thomas start wondering himself.
"Hmm…now you've got me thinking, Emily," he said. "If that's what you're thinking…do you think maybe we should meet with David and see what he has in mind?"
"I suppose we could, Thomas," said Emily. "But right now, you have passengers to take to Tidmouth Town Square…and I actually have a small goods train going there too."
"Oh, you do? Well, we can go together, then," said Thomas. "And maybe…we might see David there?"
"We'll see, Thomas," said Emily. "And if he is…we'll find out if he has me in mind on this matter…"
So Thomas and Emily collected their goods, and soon they made their way along the line together. As they huffed along side by side, they kept exchanging curious glances to each other, wondering if they would see David there or not, and in the end, the outcome would prove to be a most unexpected surprise for Thomas and especially Emily.
Eventually, Thomas and Emily arrived at Tidmouth Town Square. They delivered her goods, and as they looked around the square, they noticed a small wooden table with two seats set up, but they couldn't see David anywhere. At that moment, Gordon came whistling from up ahead on Thomas' line with a few passengers. Thomas reversed a few yards, giving Gordon time to stop and let off his passengers too.
"Hello, Gordon," said Thomas and Emily.
"Hello, Thomas and Emily," said Gordon. "What brings you two out here?"
"Goods deliveries," said Thomas. "But that's only part of it. We were wondering if we would find David here."
"David? Why do you say that?" asked Gordon.
Thomas and Emily told Gordon all about her ongoing thoughts about David and how he was dealing with Baz and Bernie's situation. While they were talking, none of them noticed Bertie arrive from the other side of Town Square, then drive off again a moment or two later.
"So that's why we're wondering if David would be here," Emily concluded eventually. "So Thomas and I could see what he has in mind for Baz and Bernie. Have you heard anything at all, Gordon?"
"Hmm," said Gordon. "Well, it so happens, as I heard the word get around, he should be here any minute with Beatrice. He's bringing her here for a luncheon."
Thomas and Emily perked up at once to this.
"He is coming here? Wow! We were right!" Thomas exclaimed.
"And it seems he has quite a few things in the works regarding those two crooks," Gordon added. "People have been talking of how strongly he's been dedicating his pledge to the Admiral to protect us."
"I'm sure he has, Gordon," said Emily. "Whatever he has in mind, I just hope his plans work to put those thieves to rights."
"Huh! There's no need to guess on that matter, Emily!" huffed Gordon. "You know what David would say!"
"About what?" came that very voice.
Gordon's eyes went wide and looked up, after which he gave a gasp when he saw David standing there on the platform with his eyebrow raised, and behind him was Beatrice. Thomas smiled and whistled hello to them both, and David smiled and gave a nod to his best friend. Secretly, he was impressed to see her right here right now…and he already knew what he had to say once he had the chance. Emily saw her chance too and made her move.
"Toot-toot," she whistled quickly as she came forward to her best friend. "David? May...may Thomas and I join you and Beatrice for lunch?"
David heard Emily's question and decided to work it in.
"Certainly. I always enjoy hearing my best friend's opinion on...things," he said with a wink to Beatrice.
"Yes, and it's actually quite fitting that you're here, Emily," said Beatrice. "I think you'll fit very nicely into today's subject."
"I will? Well, of course, Beatrice. I shall," said Emily.
So Thomas and Emily settled where they were, while Gordon stayed too. David and Beatrice settled at the small table set up for them both, and before long, David and Beatrice's food arrived from a nearby small restaurant close to the square. In one hand, the waiter carried a plate of spaghetti and meatballs, and in the other hand, a bowl of soup.
"Luncheon is served, sir," the waiter said to David.
"Yes, very good," said David. "Mine is the spaghetti, meatballs and tomato sauce."
The waiter nodded and served David his food right away, to which David said thank you and made ready for his meal. Beatrice was then given her bowl of soup, and for a few minutes, she and David ate in peace while Thomas, Emily and Gordon bared them company. After a few minutes, David spoke again.
"Alright, Emily. Seeing how you and even Thomas are right here, I think we can start talking…about my plans."
Thomas, Emily and Gordon all looked up for a few moments, growing quite curious.
"Are these plans about dealing with Baz and Bernie, David?" Thomas asked.
"But of course. You've probably been wondering now and again just how I intend to deal with those thieving beasts. As I said when you saved Ruth's plans, Phelps and Gallagher have stripped them both of all their liberties, and now, Baz has been scheduled for trial at the Court of London. Being the true perpetrator of those shenanigans, the courts have agreed he must be dealt with first."
"Alright, then. That's fitting, I must say," said Thomas. "So, David…what has your latest progress been?"
"I've been in contact with Phelps and Gallagher, the chief, a few fellows on the Mainland, and even the Royal Guard of England on this matter."
"The Royal Guard?" Thomas, Emily and Gordon all asked at once.
"Yes. Them too," said David. "They all know about Baz and Bernie, and they all know what I have in mind…and just yesterday, the Mayor and I have been talking, and I brought my proposition forth to him too."
"You have?" asked Thomas. "Please tell us, David."
So David told Thomas, Emily and Gordon what he and the Mayor spoke of the day before, and where it took place…
David and the Mayor were visiting the Sudrian Prison and patrolling the hall of solitary confinement, where prisoners were much more separate and isolated from each other. Then among the distant cells, they came to the cell they were looking for. Baz was inside, dashed against the bars, and looking neutrally and vainly every which way. When David and the Mayor came by, Baz took one look at David, then looked away sulkily.
"We have a thieving traitor in this Prison Unit, Mr. Mayor," David spoke, looking notably at Baz.
"Yes, so we do," said the Mayor. "A most shameful example of thievery he displayed at this year's Technology Fair, indeed."
"That cannot be overstated, Mr. Mayor," said David. "And I believe R.I.F.L.E. must act upon this matter and put this thief to rights."
"Resourceful Interception of Fierce Lawbreakers Elite," said the Mayor. "And just what course of action do you propose surrounding this particular thief?"
David's eyes glittered with ambition and solid spirit as he spoke.
"You know what was put together between my and the chief, in this very department of the Sudrian Police. You know the powers, rules and guidelines that were enforced among me and my crew at the very beginning. You know that under the R.I.F.L.E. establishment, every fugitive from Sudrian Order belongs to me as my lawful prey. And that for every treachery. I have the right to arrest."
"Indeed, that is all true," said the Mayor. "As is your pledge to the Admiral."
David nodded and went on.
"You know, Mayor of Sodor, THAT thieving creature is mine!" he declared, pointing directly to Baz, who looked up. "His life is MY property! All his liberties and privileges, lawfully forfeit to me."
"…Come and take it, then!" Baz spat vainly.
A broad smile creased over David's face as he released a round of laughter before reiterating his ambitious drive.
"Fool! Do you think that empty prisoner's words can rob me of my RIGHTS?! Our dedicated Mayor knows the Supreme Law and Order of Sodor and the United Kingdom! He knows that unless Sailor John was stopped in the end, as the law officially estimated, the WHOLE of Sodor most likely would have been overturned, and would have perished in fire and water!"
"It is very true," said the Mayor. "I do not deny it."
David nodded again and smiled impressively. "Indeed, you don't, Mr. Mayor...which is why I bring forth my proposition…"
"Cinders and Ashes!" Thomas exclaimed as they dawned on the present moment again. "You've indeed been going full force in your pledge to the Admiral, David."
"And I will always hold that pledge, for all of you," said David. "My captain's word is ironclad, binding and completely unbreakable."
"Well…that is quite something, David," Emily remarked. "Now…what exactly is your proposition?"
To this, David suddenly felt his idea tweak in his head. He almost smiled as he gave a small wink to Thomas, who became curious himself.
"Well, Emily. Ever since we all celebrated your tenth anniversary with Thomas, I've been piecing together everything on how I see fit to deal with Baz, the main culprit behind everything that occurred during that fair. Since they both came from the Mainland, the SPD, the Mayor and the Royal Guard agree with me that their judgement should be settled there as well...and since my plan has been arranged on the Mainland…I'll be going there too."
Thomas and Emily raised her eyebrows and became even more curious. Then Emily suddenly felt an idea tweak her funnel too as she looked briefly to Thomas, then to David again.
"Hmm. Going to the Mainland, are you, David?" she pondered. "Exactly where?"
David looked at Thomas, then at Emily as he gave a thin, clever smile himself.
"This may come as quite a surprise to you both," said David. "But when it comes to putting Baz in his place, I've chosen to sail to the Mainland Canal, and from there, I have chosen my area of plans to be…maybe say…the Steelworks."
Thomas, Emily and even Gordon gave quite a gasp and their eyes went quite wide with astonishment. They all had to admit to themselves and each other that they weren't expecting this to be part of David's plan. Thomas felt a few flashbacks of excitement and peril rush through his smokebox, and Emily's mind began wrestling with her little idea even more.
"The…the Steelworks? Where Thomas wound up lost?" gasped Gordon.
"And where James and I had our perilous rescue?" Thomas added.
"Where Merlin works with Hurricane and Frankie, along with the other Experimental Engines?" Emily finished.
"Yes, everyone. That Steelworks," said David. "It's the fellow workmen there who I've been communicating with now and again, and they are expecting me by this evening. I intend to sail the Sea Emperor to the Mainland Canal. There, Merlin shall meet me and take me ahead. Then I will see if that place can provide anything to help ensnare Baz and see to it he faces his judgement. An inventive experiment, so to speak."
Having heard what David had just said, Emily suddenly felt quite a different setup ahead of her, and she decided to bring forth her idea.
"My, my, my. So that's where you're going, is it, David?" she inquired. "Well…that works perfectly, I think…even for me."
"For you, Emily? What do you mean?" asked Gordon.
"If you're going to the Steelworks to settle Baz's matter, David…I think you've just planted a little plan in my funnel too."
"Uhh…what do you mean, Emily?" Thomas asked.
"Yes, what are you on about, Emily?" asked Beatrice.
David perked up secretly, figuring just what Emily would suggest to him.
"Well, taking all these plans into account," said Emily. "I think as the No. 12 Safety Engine, I would be quite happy going on another voyage onboard the Sea Emperor to the Mainland to see this Steelworks for myself. Don't you think so, Thomas?"
Thomas suddenly went still and halted right where he was, feeling his heart jump and race. Gordon seemed to freeze where he was too. His and Thomas' eyes discreetly turned to Emily with frozen expressions before Thomas gathered himself together and answered.
"Excuse me…another emerald voyage?" he asked a little numbly.
"Just to the Mainland Canal where that crane Beresford works, Thomas," said Emily. "Merlin can show us the way from there…and you're okay with me going for just a few days, aren't you, Thomas?"
Thomas paused again, thinking hastily and trying not to sound awkward with this unexpected precedent.
"For just a few days? Of course, Emily," he replied. "Oh...well...that is...as long as David approves of your request, being the captain of his ship."
David perked up to this, and as he spun his spaghetti around his fork and spoon, he made his answer.
"Why, Emily, you're certainly welcome to come riding aboard the Sea Emperor again. We still have that rail frame and rope from your first adventure that suits you perfectly."
"It's all still onboard?" Emily inquired. "That's very good, David."
"But…wait, David, and Emily," said Thomas. "Wouldn't it be much easier and quicker just to go over Vicarstown Bridge and go the way I went to the Mainland?"
"Oh…you're right, Thomas. Why couldn't we just do that, David?" asked Emily.
"Well, it would be quicker and easier," said David. "Except that Vicarstown Bridge is again closed for maintenance. I heard the news myself. It should be open again by tomorrow. Sonny is scheduled to bring Baz to the Steelworks then. Right now, for Emily and I, we have to sail our way there."
"Hmm. I see," said Thomas. "In that sense, yes, perhaps you should sail there."
"And compared to the emerald voyage, it would only take a few hours to reach the Mainland Canal," said David. "I have Merlin scheduled to meet us there once we arrive, and he knows the way to the Steelworks."
"Well, that's all very good indeed, David," said Thomas. "Except for…well…oh, dear…"
"What is it, Thomas?" asked Emily. "Are you afraid Hurricane and Frankie will try keeping me there, like they tried keeping you?"
"No, it's not that, Emily. I know they won't try that now," said Thomas. "But...I just remembered how Baz tried to escape Kenji after Rebecca and I stopped him."
"So?" asked Emily.
"So...being so quick like a mouse when he tried to escape with Ruth's plans," said Thomas. "Won't Baz try escaping the Royal Guard right when he sees the chance?"
David's eyes went wide to Thomas' question. "…Escape the Royal Guard?!"
Then suddenly, David burst into thunderous laughter for a few moments before continuing. Even Beatrice and Gordon laughed at such a prospect.
"Why, the Royal Guard would ensnare that rat in an instant!" David remarked with a grin. "Isn't that right, Gordon?"
Gordon jumped lightly when he heard David address him, but he had heard everything and was ready to answer, even managing a smile.
"Half an instant, I'd say. Perhaps even one-tenth an instant."
"That's right, Thomas," said Emily. "They're the Royal Guard after all. And David will be there to maintain control too."
"Yes, all true…but…this is just so unexpected," said Thomas. "This has come right out of nowhere. For me…and it's actually a first for me."
"How?" asked Emily.
"Well….you've had to say goodbye and see me sail away several times on adventures, Emily," said Thomas. "Now…it's my turn to see you off on a ship. I know we all saw you come home with David and Beatrice after your first big adventure, but that was coming home, not bidding goodbye."
"That is true, Thomas," said Emily. "For once, it'll be me sailing away, and you saying goodbye here."
"So…how long will you be away, Emily?" Thomas asked a little longingly.
"Don't worry, Thomas," said David. "Emily and I will be back in a few days. Nowhere near thirteen days like our emerald voyage and adventure. I'd say maybe three or four days. Phelps and Gallagher have their arrangements set for tomorrow with Sonny, and the Supreme Court of London has called their date for Baz' trial too, so we should be back soon."
"Hmm…alright," said Thomas. "Just don't stay away too long. Don't miss the details of Baz' trial either."
"Indeed, Thomas," said Emily. "We'll only be away as long as we have to be. I'll be right back here before you know it."
And she leaned over a little and smooched her lips, blowing a kiss to Thomas and earning a blush and a deep smile from him.
"I know you will, my angel," he murmured as he blew her a kiss in turn.
"Even I will miss you, Emily," Gordon managed to smile. "And I wish you an inventive journey out there with David."
"Well now," said David. "There we are, then. We'll begin preparations at once. Emily, my girl, soon, we'll be off to the Mainland Canal."
And so they were. Before long, David and Beatrice's luncheon was finished. Then they got onboard Emily, and she and Thomas set off to make arrangements before Thomas' special job was due to be taken. They returned to Knapford Station where they saw the Fat Controller waiting. Thomas, Emily, David and Beatrice told him everything, and he listened very carefully until all had been explained.
"Well, well, David," said the Fat Controller. "You've certainly been pulling your weight on Baz and Bernie's matter…and you're inclined to take Emily along, are you?"
"Yes, Sir Topham," said David. "We must make ready immediately. I plan for the Sea Emperor to depart at 2:00 p.m. today. Then Thomas will make ready for his special job at Ulfstead Castle."
"Hmm…very well, David. As you wish," said the Fat Controller. "I'll have Sonny on his way with Baz tomorrow as soon as Vicarstown Bridge is open again. Cleanse that thief, David. For the good of Sodor."
David gave a navy salute and returned to Emily. "I'm getting my crew ready, Thomas. Meet us at Brendam to see us off."
"And see if you can find Percy too," said Emily. "We should let him know I'm going."
"I will," said Thomas. "And I'll certainly be there to see you off, my emerald angel."
"Oh, Thomas," Emily smiled sweetly as she and David set off.
While Emily and David made their way to Arlesburgh, the Fat Controller took Beatrice in his car on their way to Brendam Docks, while Thomas made ready to find Percy and bring him there himself. Over the course of about another hour, David made ready with his crew, and at last, David and his crew were ready. They sailed the Sea Emperor out of Arlesburgh and on its way for Brendam Docks, and Emily set off for Brendam herself to be loaded onboard, feeling a rush of excitement in her boiler to be riding the Sea Emperor yet again.
When she arrived at Brendam Docks, she saw the Fat Controller and Beatrice waiting alongside the line. Then Emily looked and saw the Sea Emperor making its way alongside Carly and Cranky. His crew dropped anchor and secured the Sea Emperor alongside the two cranes. Then David got off the ship and came alongside Emily. She knew the time was drawing very near. She took a deep breath and sighed, remembering how she felt on her first emerald voyage to England and Scotland to find Beatrice.
"Oh, what an amazing adventure that was, sailing this ship for the first time," Emily said steadily. "Now, I'm sailing onboard her again…albeit on a much shorter trip."
"Yes, Emily. You are," said the Fat Controller. "And I know you'll have tales to tell Thomas when you and David return."
"We will indeed, sir," said David. "I'm eager to see how this journey turns out."
Just then, Thomas and Percy whistled in from ahead. Emily looked and there they were, coming along side by side. Thomas had told Percy everything, and he was a little stunned by the news himself. Emily could see the vague look in his eyes and she understood all too well.
"Hi, Percy," Emily said gently. "I trust Thomas has told you…"
"Everything, Emily," Percy peeped. "I wasn't expecting this news…but I understand. You and David are going to settle that thief's case."
"That's right, Percy," said Emily. "And I will come back with tales to tell you both…very soon."
"Yes, Emily. You will," said Percy.
Thomas then came forward and buffered up to Emily.
"Well, Emily…here we are," he said a little heavily. "My first time saying goodbye with you being loaded onto a ship."
"Yes, Thomas," said Emily. "And…how do you feel?"
"I…I think I'm feeling a sense of how you felt whenever I left for adventures," said Thomas. "But at least I know you'll be back shortly."
"Yes…I will be," Emily said gently as she touched her nose to his. "Don't let your dwelling thoughts hinder you from being really useful, Thomas. The Earl will be expecting you at Ulfstead Castle soon, and your special job can't wait. Can you do that special job well…for me?"
Thomas looked to his buffers, then gave a small, but genuine nod.
"That's my big boy, Tommy," Emily smiled as she kissed him on his nose.
"Be safe, David," Beatrice said as David hugged her goodbye.
"We'll look after each other every moment of the way," said David as he turned and got back onboard his ship.
"Here we go, Emily," Carly smiled. "On you go again."
Thomas watched as Carly's hook and securing system was lowered right down to Emily. Then she was lifted right up into the air. Thomas' heart gave a little jump as he watched his angel being loaded onto a ship, just like Carly loaded him on his very first big world adventure. While this outing would only be three or four days, Thomas still felt a sense of departure to see his wife figure be loaded onto the Sea Emperor and on her way somewhere else.
As soon as Emily was lowered on deck and secured to her rails, she looked all around, feeling those memories filling her up again with a sense of wonder and excitement.
"Hello again, Emily," said Copper. "Excited for another voyage?"
"Yes, Copper. Wow…it's just how I remember it," she gleamed. "So lovely and emerald green, like me. Oh…I love this ship so much."
Just then, David spoke up as he held the ship's wheel.
"This is your captain speaking. Welcome aboard again, Emily. Settle yourself in, and enjoy the voyage. Watch the sails unfurl, and leave the sailing to me."
"Well, Thomas, this is it," Emily called to him. "I'm off on another voyage onboard the Sea Emperor. Do your special job well, and I look forward to hearing all about it when I come back."
"Thank you, Emily," Thomas replied. "Enjoy your journey to the Steelworks, and I look forward to all you and David will have to tell me soon."
"And here we go!" David declared as he turned to his crew. "Boys! Hoist anchor!"
Soon after the crew turned the capstan and brought the anchor up, Copper gestured the crew to climb the rigging to the mast.
"Unfurl all sails!" he commanded, after which the magnificent emerald sails unfurled at once.
"He-he-he! Here we go! Off to sea again!" Emily chimed gleefully.
"Cast off, you hauling lot!" David commanded his crew. "And away we go!"
And David turned the ship's wheel, sending the Sea Emperor on its way to the Mainland Canal.
"Bye-bye, Tommy!" Emily called.
"Bye, Emily!" Thomas called. "I'll see you later!"
"Don't worry, Thomas," David called. "I'll take excellent care of Emily."
"We'll take care of each other!" Emily called.
Thomas and Emily exchanged a few goodbyes and whistles as the Sea Emperor started off. Then Thomas watched as it sailed steadily out of the Docks and on its way out to sea to eventually work its way east along Sodor's coast and eventually to through the Walney Channel at Vicarstown Bridge, then to the Mainland Canal.
"There she goes," said Thomas. "She'll be back soon."
"Yes, she will be, Thomas," said Percy. "Well…I'm off to take the mail train now…"
And Percy set off on his own, leaving Thomas staring out to the sea for a minute or two longer.
"Oh, what stories will they have to tell when they come back?" he asked himself.
"That's for them to know, and you to find out, Thomas," said his driver. "And…oh, goodness me! Look at the time! We must get to Ulfstead Castle for your important job! We'd best find Annie and Clarabel and bring them along too!"
Thomas suddenly remembered and felt a sense of excitement jump back to him.
"Oh, yes! Right! Of course!" he whistled. "Off we go, then! What could it be, I wonder?"
Thomas hurried out of the Docks and back to Knapford. He collected Annie and Clarabel and then rushed on his way up the Main Line to take the loop which would lead him to his destination…and he would soon be in for another, different surprise.
By now, it was a sunny day on Sodor, and Thomas was hurrying to Ulfstead Castle, where the Earl had a special job for him. When he arrived at the castle grounds, he looked at the platform, and his eyes fell upon quite a pile of stuff. Trunks, suitcases and bags were piled up almost as tall as he was, and among that pile was Ruth with two more suitcases. Thomas was chipper to see her again, and wondered what she could be up to today.
"Hey, Thomas. How are you doing?" she greeted.
"I'm good, thanks, Ruth," said Thomas. "Can't stop and chat though, sorry. The Earl's got an important job for me."
At that moment, Sir Robert came up alongside Ruth with a chuckle.
"Ho-ho-ho-ho, Thomas. Ruth IS your important job! I'd like you to show her all around Sodor, and help her find a place to live."
"What do you say, Thomas?" asked Ruth.
Despite having said goodbye to Emily and David just a short while ago, Thomas was surprised and delighted. After seeing how inventive Ruth was, he was more than glad to partake in this job.
"I'd love to help!" he whistled proudly.
Soon, Ruth's luggage was placed inside Annie and Clarabel, and Ruth got onboard Thomas. Then they were off across the line to find the right place for her to settle in.
"You know, Ruth, there are so many brilliant places on Sodor, I don't how you'll ever pick one," said Thomas.
"Oh, um...Brendam? Suddery?" suggested Annie. "Oh! What about...?"
"Norramby? Norramby's lovely!" Clarabel put in.
"They all sound great. Where shall we try first?" asked Ruth.
"Oh, I know!" said Thomas.
Soon, Thomas made his way to Arlesburgh, speaking away as if he were a tour guide, right until he huffed to the pier, where Cap'n Calles' ship stood, and where the Sea Emperor recently departed for the Docks and was now out on the sea with Emily.
"Welcome to Arlesburgh Harbour. Lovely seaside location and a fully working dock. Perfect for any shipments of parts or tools, or other inventor-y things."
"And just take a breath of that sea air," said Skiff. "Best air on Sodor!"
"And what's more, Ruth, it's where David lives with his mother and the rest of his crew!" Thomas added. "What do you think?"
"It is lovely but...it's a bit too noisy for me," Ruth replied above the seagulls' constant cries. "I'm looking for somewhere...a little quieter?"
"Quieter? I know just the place!" said Thomas.
Before long, Thomas took Ruth up the Harwick Branch Line where Ryan and Daisy did most of their work. Thomas began to speak again.
"Welcome to beautiful Harwick. Quiet, peaceful-"
"And marvelously chic," Daisy cut in. "You'll feel like you're on holiday every day."
Ruth stepped off and looked around again. "Wow. It is lovely, but...it's a bit too vacation-like for me. I need somewhere I can work."
"Somewhere you can work?" pondered Thomas. "Hmm...Aha! I've got it!"
Thomas then took Ruth along and set off back to Tidmouth Town Square, right where he, David, Beatrice and Emily had discussed their Mainland plans before they set off on the Sea Emperor. Percy was there too with the mail run.
"Ta-da! Tidmouth's the place to be for work! Isn't that right, Percy!" said Thomas.
"Oh, yes! Tidmouth is terrific!" Percy peeped as he saw Ruth again. "I just delivered the mail here myself!"
"It's lovely..." Ruth began.
"But?" Thomas just as a few children rushed past Ruth.
"But...it's a bit busy," said Ruth. "I'd like somewhere...calmer."
Thomas was puzzled, but determined to help. "Oh...calmer. Okay...um..."
"Where do you work, Thomas?" asked Ruth.
"I've got my very own Branch Line," said Thomas.
"What's it like there?"
"It's great."
"Great! Let's go and look there then, shall we?"
So Thomas took Ruth to show her places all along his Branch Line, which would take a fair while yet before Ruth would pinpoint the perfect spot for her continued inventive work...
By this time, out on the ocean, David and Emily were still sailing the Sea Emperor along Sodor's coast, and had just passed the coastline of Norramby, where Clarabel had suggested for Ruth to settle. Emily had been enjoying the ride so far and she was eager to see what the Mainland Canal would look like.
"So. Your second voyage onboard my ship, Emily," David remarked at the wheel. "What's it like?"
"I'm quite happy to be back onboard, David," said Emily. "A shorter journey, but that's okay. Speaking of which, have you ever been to the Mainland Canal through your delivering days?"
"I can't say I have, Emily," said David. "But I have heard about that canal a fair deal over the years, and I'm sure the people there will know me and my history as a captain. I wonder if this Beresford character will pick up on that matter himself."
"Maybe he will, David," said Emily. "And I'm curious to see what he thinks of me, after his experience with Thomas."
"Well, we'll see for ourselves soon enough, Emily," said David.
The Sea Emperor continued on its way along the coast, until eventually, Emily looked up and gasped.
"David, look! It's Vicarstown Bridge!"
David looked and saw for himself. "Yes, indeed, Emily. That's it. And they're still working on the bridge."
David was right. The bridge was right up, and workmen were checking it every which way, allowing the Sea Emperor to sail right through. Shortly afterwards, the sea began to widen again, and Emily saw they were working their way north.
"Hmm…do you see any canal pathways, David?" she asked.
David looked around and couldn't see any, but he was determined to find his way. Soon, the Sea Emperor came to another canal. David looked carefully, and his soldier's intuition told him this was the right way to go.
"I think this is it, Emily," he said. "Let's work our way through…and see where we end up."
And so they did. Emily watched surely as the Sea Emperor steered into the canal and started working its way along the canal trail. Hour after hour, all was quiet as David kept sailing straight ahead, and Emily kept an open eye for anything that would catch her eye and tell her they had arrived.
Eventually, a few hours later, as afternoon began to turn over to evening, David and Emily looked up again and suddenly gasped. There, in the distance, they saw the Mainland Canal up ahead. Emily looked closer and could see a series of rails alongside the canal, leading to a curve to the right and into the trees. David's soldier intuition told him they had reached their destination, and he drew his cutlass and pointed it high in the air in accomplishment.
"David…that…that must be it!" Emily exclaimed excitedly. "The Mainland Canal! We found it!"
And they did. David and Emily had completed their voyage and had made their way to the Mainland Canal where Beresford always worked, even though he rarely saw many engines aside from the Experimental Engines who would come and go from the Steelworks now and again.
"Land ho!" Cecco called out.
David watched as they made their way closer to the canal, right up to Beresford.
"I've got a little surprise for you, Baz the Thief," David remarked as he resheathed his sword.
"Close-haul her, now!" Copper called as the Sea Emperor came alongside Beresford and came to a stop. "Prepare to drop anchor!"
"So…this is where Thomas ventured on his journey beyond Sodor…it must be," Emily whispered wistfully.
"I believe it is, Emily," David replied lowly.
The two best friends looked along the canal and along the rails, trying to see where they would go from here…and at that moment, a big voice came booming from above.
"Who goes there?!"
It was Beresford the Crane. Of course, Emily had heard about this crane from Thomas and James after they returned from the Steelworks, and she was ready to make herself known.
"Hello, there," she said. "You're Beresford, I trust?"
"Yes, emerald madam. I am," said Beresford.
"And isn't this the Mainland Canal?" asked Emily.
"The Mainland Canal?" said Beresford. "But of course, it is…then again, it's all along here. Sometimes I go over here…whee-hoo! And sometimes, I go up here!"
And Beresford rolled up and down his gantry line, quite like he did with Thomas upon first meeting him. Emily watched each moment and took it in.
"And I can spin around and look at the view from every direction…OH!" Beresford's hook hit him square on the nose before he looked down again. "But I've never been to Bridlington. What's it like?"
"Huh. I'm not looking for Bridlington. I'm here to go to the Steelworks on the Mainland," said Emily.
Beresford remembered Thomas' run-ins with the Steelworks and became curious.
"Oh. I see. Hurricane and Frankie's Steelworks. Hmm."
"Yes, that's the one," said Emily. "Now please unload me so I can go on my way."
"Oh, but before you go, do please answer my question," said Beresford.
"What question?" asked Emily.
"Who goes there?" Beresford repeated. "Meaning, who-are-YOU?"
Emily sighed and answered neutrally. "Well. If you must know, I'm Emily."
"Emily? Who's Emily?" Beresford asked.
Emily could see Beresford was a stubborn sort, and in that moment, she knew just what she had to say.
"Who am I? WHO am I?" she remarked, pretending to be surprised. "I think you'll find, I'm the No. 12 Safety Engine of the Island of Sodor…and the beautiful emerald angel, queen and wife…of Thomas the Tank Engine!"
Beresford gasped and immediately remembered. "I…E-Excuse me, madam…did you say…Thomas?"
"Yes," said Emily.
"THE Thomas the Tank Engine?!" Beresford exclaimed with surprise.
"Yes. The No. 1 Blue Engine…and my handsome cobalt star," said Emily. "I'm the love of his life, and we've been truly in love for ten whole years as of just a few days ago."
For a few moments, Beresford was speechless as he took it in. Then he spoke again with quite a wave of pride in his voice.
"Oh…gracious goodness me! Thomas…in love! I…I never even thought of…well, that is most amazing! Well, then…in that sense, welcome, Emily!"
"Thank you, Beresford," said Emily. "Nice to be on close enough terms."
"Yes, yes! To meet the love of little Thomas! I am most honoured!" said Beresford. "So…what service may I do you, my lady?"
"Service fit for my engine, Beresford!" called a loud, authority-driven voice from the ship. "Unload her onto the line with grace and precision!"
Beresford heard the commanding voice and looked down. There was David looking right up at him. Although Beresford had never seen David before, it so happened that he too had heard now and again about David and his delivering history with this graceful ship, and he immediately felt the sense of duty and precision kick in.
"Oh! By my hook! I-it's Captain Rider himself!" Beresford exclaimed. "Captain! At your service, sir! I'll get to it right away."
So with careful maneuvers, grace and precision, a securing system was hitched to Beresford's hook. Then he lowered his hook right down to Emily. David watched as she was lifted right up off the ship, maneuvered onto the Canal and lowered right down onto the rails.
"Why, thank you, Beresford," said Emily.
"Oh, yes. Anything for Thomas' angel and wife," Beresford said gallantly.
"Good," David nodded as he disembarked his ship and came up along his engine again. "Welcome, Emily, to the Mainland Canal. Oh! And look, here comes Merlin right now!"
Emily looked and indeed, there was Merlin, steaming away through his three funnels. Emily felt a tingle of glee rush through her boiler as she remembered learning invisible steam with him, and here he was again.
"Hello, Merlin," David greeted. "Here as planned, I see."
"Ahh, yes! Captain Rider," Merlin greeted gallantly. "You've arrived too, I see, and…oh! Goodness me! You brought Emily along too! Oh, this such a surprise! Oh, joy! A miracle!"
"He-he-he! Hello again, Merlin," Emily smiled. "I don't think you were expecting me to come too, were you?"
"Well, no, I wasn't…but I'm most delighted that you have come!" Merlin beamed. "I heard all the news, Emily. Several here on the Mainland have been talking of your navy friend's proposition to deal with this thief they speak of, and I'm here to make sure you find your way directly to the Steelworks. The others will be most surprised and delighted to meet you, I'm sure."
"Oh…the others, Merlin?" asked Emily, putting it together. "You mean to say…?"
"Yes. Theo and Lexi...and even Hurricane and Frankie," said Merlin. "I've told them a little about you, and I'm sure they would be honoured to show you the Steelworks while they can, until our thieving guest arrives and our plans can be set in motion to stop him properly."
"Yes, that's why we came," David answered as he got onboard Emily. "Now, lead the way, Merlin. We're ready."
"Right this way, Emily. Follow me," said Merlin.
And so she did. Emily whistled and set off down the line with Merlin while David's crew would stay at the canal and keep an eye on the ship…
Meanwhile, back on Sodor, Thomas had been showing Ruth all around his Branch Line throughout the afternoon, and as much as Ruth liked most of it, she was still on the lookout for the perfect place. Then as evening began to set in, they came to a closed gate that often gave Thomas trouble over the years.
"Uh. This gate always gives me trouble. Needs a little push this one."
Ruth stepped down. "Let me take a look. Hm. We wouldn't have this problem if it was automatic."
With a little pushing and effort, Ruth managed to jolt the gate open and cleared the way for Thomas to continue.
"Thanks, Ruth," said Thomas. "And the search continues!"
But only a few seconds into continuing the search, Ruth suddenly looked ahead and called out.
"Stop! THAT'S the place!"
Thomas looked to where Ruth had called out, and was suddenly surprised and perplexed. As he came to a stop, there was a most worn down barn and windmill that hadn't been used for years and years. Completely abandoned and ramshackle it was.
"Huh? Really?" Thomas puzzled.
"Uh-huh," said Ruth.
"But its sails are all broken! Its roof's falling in, and there's a tree growing out of the wall."
"I know," said Ruth. "It's perfect."
"Perfect?" said Thomas. "It's old and useless!"
"Just you wait and see," said Ruth. "This will be quite a job, but soon enough, this place will have a complete transformation!"
And so Ruth got straight to work on the ramshackle place to convert it into something new and better. Thomas stayed a while, watching as she sawed the branches of the tree off and out of the way. He had no idea what Ruth could be thinking with this ramshackle old place and how it could be made useful again, but she seemed determined and dedicated to making it work. That's when Thomas' mind suddenly thought back to Emily and David. He noticed the sun was going down, and surely the Sea Emperor had to have found its destination by now.
"Oh, goodness me," Thomas said to himself. "Just what could Emily be doing on the Mainland, with her best friend? Oh, my sweet angel, out on the Mainland…what shall they be doing…?"
Far out on the Mainland, Thomas' wonders were coming true. Merlin was still leading Emily and David on their way to the Steelworks, passing through the thick forest line Thomas had trailed on once. Emily and David looked all around with wonder until the forest opened up again and they came to an old, ramshackle yard.
"Merlin…what's this place?" asked Emily. "It looks like this yard hasn't been used for years and years."
"Oh, this place?" said Merlin. "It's where Lexi, Theo and I used to live until Thomas came along and met us. Then ever since his journey in and out of the Steelworks with James, we all moved there to help Hurricane and Frankie. We're getting close now."
"We are?" asked Emily. "Ooh…I'll soon see it for myself…and the others too!"
"That's right, Emily. You will," said Merlin.
David looked down the line with interest, eager to see for himself what this Steelworks was really like.
Merlin and Emily continued on their way as evening continued to set in. Then at last, in the distance, Emily and David looked and saw it. A massive brick building with metal roofs, chimneys and smoke and steam issuing out of all the chimneys at once.
"Merlin…is…is this…?" Emily began.
"This is it, Emily," Merlin whistled. "This is the Mainland Steelworks! Right this way!"
Merlin proceeded through the main gate and Emily followed. She and David looked around in considerable awe. All through the yards outside, there were lines of flatbeds full of steel pipes, frames and rods. Then in another corner, Emily looked and saw what looked like a slope. At the bottom, she could see a line of ladle trucks which she could assume were used for pouring molten slag. Now she was even more curious to see what this place was like, especially since the Experimental Engines had come along to help here too.
"Now, Emily and David. Time to meet the others," said Merlin as he gave a loud blast of his whistle.
Emily and David looked ahead and waited, and then, out of the main entrance, there came two engines emerging from the building. Emily held her breath and prepared herself as the two engines came forward and looked at her. One was a black diesel engine with a very subtle hint of green in her livery, and the other, a big, broad red steam engine. They both looked curiously and intriguingly at Emily until she spoke.
"Hmm…hello," said Emily. "I assume this is…the Mainland Steelworks?"
"Yes, it is, and hello there," said Frankie. "Well, I say…You must be Emily."
Emily's heart jumped slightly to this. "I…I am. How did you know my name?"
"Merlin has told us all about you, dear lady," said Frankie. "And how you're…Thomas' angel and wife figure, if I'm not mistaken?"
"Y…yes. That is absolutely right," said Emily. "And you are?"
"Frankie, madam. That's me," said Frankie.
"And I'm Hurricane. You know, like a storm!" Hurricane spoke. "I used to be the head steamer here keeping up with all the work with Frankie, until Merlin, Theo and Lexi showed up."
"Oh, yes. Thomas and James told us all about it," said Emily. "Quite a story I must say. I'm also Sodor's Safety Engine, you know. That's why I have the No. 12 as you see on my tender."
"Yes, we do see," said Frankie. "So, Emily…as Sodor's Safety Engine, what sort do you call yourself?"
"Oh. Well…I don't go too fast or too slow, which means I'm not too early or too late. I'm exactly on time. As long as I'm a busy engine, then I'm a happy engine."
"Well, isn't she a clever emerald engine, Hurricane?" Frankie remarked.
"And a very sensible one too, Frankie," said Hurricane.
Just then, a whistle and a bell echoed through the area as Emily saw two more engines puff into view. One was a cab-forward tender engine, and the other was a railway traction engine with an experimental gear drive system on his right side.
"Hi! Hi! Hi! Pleased to meet you!" cried Lexi boisterously, switching between different dialects as she spoke. "Well, hello there! Lexi's the name!"
Theo was much more quiet and shy in his approach as he continuously shook about. "H-Hello. My n-name is T-Theo."
"Well, hello Lexi and Theo," replied Emily, most amazed by their appearances. "Thomas told me all about you two. I hear you were both very unsure of what you could do until Thomas found you."
"Aye," replied Lexi. "We were deemed failures. Flawed. Not fit for service. We didn't think we could do anything at all."
"But thanks to Thomas," said Theo. "We r-realized that there we w-were able to do something after all, and that we d-did have a place in the world. Right here."
"And Merlin has told us a great deal about you, Emily!" hollered Lexi. "Whoo! Thomas sure picked up a mighty fine looking sheila!"
Emily blushed. "Oh, stop it now. You're making me blush."
"But, i-it's true," stuttered Theo, who couldn't help blushing as he admired Emily. "Merlin wasn't k-kidding when he said you were very b-beautiful."
"Yes, it's all very delightful to see her, isn't it," said Hurricane. "Now, then…what brings you here to the hottest place in town, Emily?"
"I do," came the voice from Emily's cab.
Frankie and Hurricane looked and were suddenly stunned to see the Navy Captain step down. Much like Beresford, they too had heard about this soldier despite never seeing him before.
"H-Hurricane…do…do you see who I see?" Frankie said heavily.
"Is that…?" Hurricane began.
"Oh, have you heard over the years about this seafaring fellow?" Emily asked.
"I…I believe we have," said Hurricane. "Captain Rider of the Sea Emperor?"
David nodded impressively and explained the situation.
"Indeed, I am. I'm Emily's navy mentor and best friend, and as of only a few days ago, the newfound Commander of Resourceful Interception of Fierce Lawbreakers Elite…which is why Emily and I are here. You see, Hurricane and Frankie, there's a thief called Baz who tried to make off with very valuable plans to a Hover Car a friend of ours named Ruth owned. He's been held in the Sudrian Police Department's hands since the incident, but since he came from the Mainland, his trial is to be held in London soon, and if we can, we would like to explore this Steelworks and see if it can provide us with any means to make doubly sure Baz is put to the judgement that must befall him."
Hurricane and Frankie were impressed with David's presence and intrigued by his proposition as they looked to each other and hummed lowly. Merlin, Lexi and Theo were intrigued by this aspect too as they nodded to each other and smiled.
"Hmm…well, I see," said Frankie. "I don't think we've had anyone check us out for something like this."
"We'd be h-happy to h-help you on that, E-Emily," Theo shook.
"So you'd like to check us out, would you?" said Lexi.
"Yes, we would," said Emily. "Could you show us around please?"
"Well…showing you around, we could certainly do that," said Frankie. "But as to when to do it…well, it's almost dark now."
Emily and David looked and could see the sun was just setting over the horizon and the stars were just beginning to appear in the sky.
"Hmm…yes, I can see that, Frankie," said David. "And Emily and I did have a considerably voyage onboard my ship."
"Well, then. Perhaps we ought to take our time, just for tonight," said Hurricane. "But I promise you both, first thing in the morning, Frankie and I would be glad to show you around, and you can decide what to do about this Baz."
"Thank you, Hurricane. Much appreciated," said David.
"However…from first glance, Emily…what do you think of our Steelworks?" asked Frankie. "Just by your first look from outside?"
Once again, Emily looked up, down, and every which way she could at the building and the surrounding area. Then she answered.
"Back on Sodor, I've seen the Smelters Yards, the Steamworks and the Dieselworks. But this is nothing like any metal works I've ever seen."
"I agree with Emily," said David. "This place is indeed something else. There's nothing like this on Sodor."
"I'm sure it isn't," said Hurricane. "The hottest place in town, as we call it. And it wasn't easy keeping up with all the work here when it was only Frankie and me. We were both so happy when Thomas came along…although it was immoral of us to try keeping him here…"
"And a hard lesson it was for us both to take," said Frankie. "Hurricane even sacrificed his wheels to save Thomas after he just missed falling into that cauldron of molten slag…"
Emily and David looked grimly to each other as they knew all too well about that.
"But ever since we Experimental Engines came here, this place has become a much more chipper place to work," said Merlin.
"Of course. The more the merrier," said Lexi.
"But for now, you two must be tired after your ship's voyage. What say we find you a place to rest?" offered Frankie.
"Thanks, Frankie. I am starting to feel tired," said Emily.
"Well, then. Right this way, Emily," said Hurricane.
Emily and David followed Hurricane and Frankie through the Steelworks Yards until they came to a small shed. The same one Thomas slept in until he made his escape and stayed with the Experimental Engines. Emily settled inside and gave a sigh as she settled in for the evening.
"Here you are, Emily," said Hurricane. "This is the shed Thomas slept in during his journey here. I know it's nothing special, but it's a shed fit enough to sleep in."
"Well, it is snug," said Emily. "Thank you, Hurricane."
"And I'm more than comfortable to sleep right here with Emily," said David. "Thanks, Hurricane."
"Our pleasure. Now, have a good night's sleep, Emily," said Hurricane. "We look forward to showing you around tomorrow."
"Pleasant dreams, Emily," said Frankie. "We'll see you in the morning."
"Then we'll show you the hottest place in town," said Hurricane. "Sleep well now, my lady."
And Frankie and Hurricane left to return to their sheds. The Experimental Engines made their way in for the night too. Once they were in their own private company, Emily and David looked around the yards and thought a little.
"Hmm…Well, David…we're gonna find out everything about this place tomorrow…what do you think so far?" Emily asked.
"Hm-hm-hm. So far, this is simply perfect. Yes, Emily," David smiled impressively. "Provided this place has what we need, with this Steelworks as our base, we shall lure that thieving Baz to his steely fate."
"And so we will," Emily said with a smile, then gave a yawn. "Ohh…see you in the morning, David."
"Goodnight, Emily," said David. "And thanks for coming with me onboard my ship again."
Emily smiled with a little nod and drifted off to sleep. David kissed her cheek and fell asleep on her running plate, huddling to her face and feeling her warm breath as she slept peacefully. The next day, things would continue to happen, both on the Mainland, and on Sodor. Ruth was still working through the night to fix up the old barn and windmill Thomas had found, and as for Emily and David, interesting and inventive things would start happening before their eyes, and Baz would soon meet the steely fate fit only for him.
Alrighty, the next story has finally arrived, and it's still got two more chapters to come. Some of you will obviously notice that this story is taking place during "Thomas and the Inventor's Workshop" from Series 24, and it honestly works really well as an excuse to see what Thomas is up to while Emily is away. We'll be seeing much more of the Experimental and Steelworks Engines as we move forward with this story, and until next time, tell us what you thought of this chapter, and stay safe.