Author's note/Disclaimer:
This is the very first story I posted of my favorite Sodor pairing, or couple, Thomas and Ashima. I based this story on a multiple of stories from the Railway Series and I also based it on some fan-made stories I saw on YouTube. I would also like to take the time to dedicate this story to my once best friend Madison Thomas, also known as MaddGirlz3761 on DeviantArt, and MaddGirlzArtz on Twitter and YouTube. This story is also for her because ever since something I did had ended our friendship, I created this story in the hopes of making amends and repairing it again. Don't ask what it was I did; it's both personal and unpleasant. And Madi-adi, where ever you are, and if you're seeing this story, I hope you like this, and I hope you will forgive me. This story is dedicated to you.
Picture cover by TankEngineNinja on DeviantArt, edited by me.
Chapter 1.
New Season & Happy Reunion
It was a busy spring time on the North Western Railway. The Fat Controller was having a new station built on the Peel Godred Branch Line. All of the branch line engines were excited, and they always love it when a new station is built because it attracts the welcome of more visitors, such as holiday makers and children. It was a splendid time. One April morning, The Fat Controller came to the sheds with important news.
"As you all know, and for those who saw how far we've been progressing, the station, Kirk Machan, is almost completed. However, I'm also pleased to say that this railway will connect with a small, narrow gauge railway that has a third rail. This is what's known as a rack rail." "Why would a narrow gauge railway need a third rail?" asked Percy. "That's because they're tracks made specifically for a mountain engine," explained Nia.
James scoffed. "Mountain engines? I've never heard of such a thing. With an engine that small, how could they be useful? Their wheels would slip when they make the climb, and they could even get stuck." The Fat Controller held up his hand to silence James. "Never mind that, James. And there are such a thing as mountain engines designed and built specifically for that job." James remained silent as the Fat Controller continued.
"Thomas, I need you to collect some mountain rails and other materials for the Kirk Machan station." "Yes, Sir", said Thomas. But then he had a thought. "But what about my Branch Line, Sir? I can't run my line and do this job all at once…" "I'm sending an engine from the Middle East to help you out with your Branch Line, and the construction work," said The Fat Controller reassuringly. "The Middle East?" thought Thomas as he puffed out. "Who could it be?" He thought who the mystery engine was all the way to the docks.
When he came to a stop at Brendam, he could see some of the trucks being loaded for his train. Salty was in the middle of lining them up.
"Arr, here's yer trucks, laddy," he said. "I hear you will be receiving some help for your Branch Line as well." "Yes, but I don't know who's coming," said Thomas. Just then he heard the sounds of puffing and a familiar whistle stopping beside him. "Well, look no further," said the voice it belonged to. "Not only did I look forward to seeing you again, but I'm here to help on your Branch Line."
Thomas' mouth dropped in shock and amazement. "A- Ashima!"
"That's me!" she said proudly. "So, what can I do to help?"
Thomas thought for a couple minutes. "I'll tell you what," he decided. "You can be my back engine in helping me take this train to Kirk Machan. They're needed for the mountain railway."
Ashima was delighted. She was looking forward to the journey, and being with Thomas again.
As soon as the two engines were coupled up, Thomas and Ashima left Brendam Docks for Killdane.