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"What do you mean you just let the Diesel back on Sodor, sir?" Thomas spluttered in disbelief.
"He was beyond rude, and very disrespectful to you and Sir Topham Hatt!" Edward argued.
"He also ruined your hat, sir!" Percy finished.
Inspector Daman cleaned his glasses before fiddling with a mini oven that sat on a table in front of him.
"Listen, dear engines," He began. "It's been almost 20 years since this Diesel has left the island. That's a long time to improve. And I've been convinced by his previous controller and Sir Topham Hatt that he has changed his behavior." He finished. He opened the mini oven and pulled out a tiny pie from it.
"People said the same thing about Diesel," Percy interjected, "He's been sent away multiple times, and each time he's given another chance, he blows it!" Edward and Thomas agreed heartily.
"And why are you playing with a mini oven?" Edward asked in annoyance.
"Yes, with all due respect, what's wrong with you?" Thomas snapped.
Inspector Daman sighed. "The Fat Controller bought this for his granddaughter, and he implored that I test one for safety. So I'm making a cherry pie!" He beamed in excitement.
"Were you listening to us, sir?" Edward begged. "Please, heed our request to have the Diesel sent back to the Mainland."
"I hear you all, loud and clear," the inspector responded passively.
"So you'll do it?" Percy asked hopefully.
"Unfortunately, I'm required to give this Diesel another chance," The inspector sighed sadly. "I'm most sympathetic to your plight, and I'm disgusted to hear of the way he's treated you. But please; give him another chance, and who knows? You'll be shocked to find if he's actually changed for the better." He assured with a smile, before leaving the station, taking the mini pie and oven with him.
"You know, Edward, Thomas, he may have a point." Percy looked to his companions innocently.
"Yes, but I'm still not satisfied." Edward grumbled, with rare annoyance.
"We should tell the others about what the Inspector said," Thomas added with disappointment.
And the three engines puffed back to Tidmouth, worried about what the future events may bring.
