Sodor's Precious Child

A.N. About the cover. I used a base, and edited it, and have been given permission by the artist to use it on this site as a cover for my story as long as I give credit.

Base by: BritishCyborg-69 on DeviantArt
Base name:
Cutie Pie – Original Base
Base edited by: Raphianna

The Island of Sodor was a dream come true for its inhabitants- with good homes, amazing jobs, and very low crime rates- mostly petty offences- who could find fault with their beautiful home?

But, even with what they were fortunate to have, there were many who felt that something was missing from Sodor. But, no amount of thinking could answer the island's dilemma of what it was missing. One spring morning, Edward was on his way to work, but with the intention of seeing Sir Topham Hatt first.

The work week had been busier than normal, and it was starting to puzzle Edward, and he wanted to find out why. So here he was, passing by buildings, people, and nature, lost deep in thought.

He, along with others have had this- empty feeling inside themselves, and on the island in general. Finally, he arrived at Sir Topham Hatt's office, and knocked.

There was a few moments where nothing happened, until finally, Sir Topham Hatt answered the door. "Edward? What brings you here? Aren't you supposed to be at work?" He asked the twenty-nine year old.

"Well… yes Sir I am, but I would like to speak with you. For I have a question." He replied. "Might I come in?"

Sir Topham Hatt nodded. "Of course."

"Thank you." Edward said graciously. So he walked in, and sat down.

"Now." Sir Topham Hatt started, seating himself behind his desk once more. "What do you need?"

"Well Sir," Began Edward. "I've been wondering, why the work schedule has been so hectic lately?" He questioned. "The only time we're really this busy, is Christmas, but its spring." He mused softly. "I'm a little confused by it, and so are the others."

"Ah, yes!" The older man started. "I suppose I should tell you then." Sir Topham Hatt smiled. "We are having a new arrival." He explained to his oldest worker.

Edward was puzzled. "But Sir, with all due respect, we've had new arrivals before, why is this-" But he was cut off by Sir Topham Hatt holding up his hand.

"This one, is different." He interjected. "He will be- young."

Edward blinked. Now he was more confused than ever. "How young?" He asked his employer.

"That," The older man stated. "I do not know yet." He admitted while sifting through some paperwork; specifically, the paperwork of the new arrival. "But he will arrive in a few days. That is why everything is so hectic at the moment."

Edward tilted his head to the side. "You mean… don't know anything about him, Sir?"

Sir Topham Hatt chuckled. "Honestly no." He confirmed. "But I know enough. He's a young boy from the London City Orphanage-"

"He's an orphan?" Edward gasped, before he blushed in embarrassment. "Forgive my interruption…"

Sir Topham Hatt smiled. "It's alright, Edward." He nodded. "But yes, he's from the orphanage in London. He's apparently been there since he was seven. But that is all the people at the orphanage were willing to release about him. So, I just want to make sure that the boy is able to feel comfortable when he arrives. That, Edward, is why you've all been busier than normal."

Edward nodded slowly, carefully letting the information sink in. "I see… well, that does clear it up." He smiled. "Thank you. Would it be alright if… I disclose this information to the others, so they understand why as well?" He asked.

Sir Topham Hatt nodded. "Yes. Honestly, Edward. You beat me in telling you what was going on." He chuckled. "I was going to tell you all what was going on tomorrow!"

Edward laughed. "Well, we were all confused, and wanted to know sooner than later, so I decided to find out now."

"I appreciate your initiative, Edward." Sir Topham Hatt praised as he stood once more, Edward doing the same. "That is the sign of a good character and a good heart. And that's exactly what's needed on this railway."

Edward smiled. "Then I am honoured to be here." He nodded.

"I am grateful for that." His employer smiled as he went and opened the door. "Now, you should head to work. I surmise everyone is on their way to doing the same."

Edward nodded before bidding Sir Topham Hatt farewell, and once the farewell was returned, he left to go to work.

As Edward left the station towards his engine, he let his mind wander a little, thinking of the conversation they just had.

Hm... He thought, while running a hand through his hair. A new arrival…