The tank engine, who was called Marion, explained it as they headed towards the main yard.

"You see, the diesels took over- but it shouldn't be that way. Diesels have their virtues, but so do steam engines, especially with the Renaissance and all the improvements it brought.

"There's something deeper to it than just technology- it's malicious. Someone wants to destroy steam engines for good.

"So we set up this place. It's up in the mountains, and they don't know we're here. We take in steam engines and fix them up. We're the resistance.

"How many engines are here?" asked Johnny.

"Not many- twenty-three. Most of them are spread throughout the system –you know, eggs in one basket- so there are maybe four at the Central, including me. I'm the switcher, and there's Scout, Cedric, and Eagle. You'll meet them soon enough."

"What about Dylan and Dulcie?"

"They're the heart of the operation, with Mr. Capp."

"Who?"

"Mr. Capp! He's the one who set this whole thing up. He's a bit older than the twins, and he masterminds the thing. Dylan's the mechanic, and Dulcie will act as engineer when needed. We've got a few other workers, but it's hard, since we're basically running an illegal operation here."

In due time they reached the roundhouse. It was a small five-stall. The surrounding yards were full of wagons and flatbed loaded with metal.

There were two engines loitering around a water tower.

"Oi! You lot!" shouted Dylan.

They all glanced over at them, then puffed over. One was a grey 2-8-2, and one was a black 4-8-4.

"Where's Eagle?" asked Dulcie.

"Boiler trouble," said the Mikado. "Mark's in the workshop looking him over."

"What?" cried Dylan. "I'd've done it if he'd waited!" He jumped down and sprinted away.

"Who's this? New engine?" asked the Northern.

"Yeah," said Marion. "Name's Johnny."

"Hello," said Johnny shyly.

"I'm Scout," said the Mikado. "This is Cedric."

Just then, a man walked up. He was a few years older than Dulcie, with dark skin and close-cropped dark hair.

"Did you have any money left over at all?" he asked.

"Not really. But he's got spirit. And he's electro-steam."

"If we get him working," muttered the man. He looked to Johnny. "I'm Mark Capp. I run this little line."

"I'll help you guys out in any way possible," Johnny told him.

"That so?" he said. He turned around. "Scout, we've found another engine for tonight."

Scout's eyes widened. "Are you sure? Eagle should be ready by nightfall." Her brow furrowed. "He's only just arrived!"

"Best way to test his mettle. Cedric! Go take Marion and Johnny over to the stock yard and get them ready."

Muttering under his breath, Cedric started off.

"Wait! What's going on tonight?"

Mark grinned. "You'll see."