That's the Ticket!

by AaronCottrell97

Every steam engine has a boiler ticket, which is a safety certificate issued for a steam locomotive boiler on passing a formal inspection, and generally covers a period of eight-ten years. The week before Bonfire Night, Belle's boiler ticket expires, so she must be taken out of service until her boiler has been repaired, leaving Flynn to manage firefighting duty without her.

All the engines on the Fat Controller's railway strive constantly to be responsible, reliable and really useful. They work hard looking after passengers and managing goods trains every which way across the railway, doing the best they can to avoid confusion and delay, or one or the other. But every now and then, in between all the hustle and bustle, every steam engine goes through a very occasional routine that puts their activity on temporary hold regarding their boilers.

Each and every steam engine has what's called a boiler ticket. A safety certificate issued for a steam locomotive's boiler upon passing a formal inspection, with each ticket covering an average time span of eight to ten years. Additional annual safety inspections also can and must be undertaken, which could result in a steam engine being temporarily withdrawn from service if the boiler requires maintenance. Whenever a ticket expires, the locomotive cannot be used until the boiler is overhauled or replaced, after which a new ticket is obtained, and the cycle of eight to ten years begins again. Thomas and Emily could recall a time like this way back when they first met and had to spend time at the Steamworks together, during such time Bulgy was refurbished and put back on the road as a green vegetable bus for a few years until he resumed passenger duties full time along with Bertie and Algy. Gordon also had a particular experience like this when Henry wished upon the Wishing Tree to take the express again until Gordon was back in business again with a new boiler. And so all the steam engines knew this very occasional yet consistent routine and simply went along with it whenever they needed to, and soon enough Sodor's best fire engines would have a little experience of their own involving this pattern.

One night in late October, some weeks after Misty Island had burned to the ground and the Logging Locos were settled in Henry's Forest, the Sodor Search and Rescue Centre was winding down for the evening. Harold sat upon his landing pad, Captain was docked in his boatshed, Rocky was sitting in his siding outside the Rescue Centre and Flynn was hunkered down in his shed. Belle was still outside, watching as the stars glimmered through the sky. Her firefighting business with Flynn had been going like clockwork over the past few months and she could only think what the next fire to fight would be like. Then suddenly, Belle heard the sound of a car. She looked and saw the Fat Controller's car coming along the road until it stopped nearby the Rescue Centre. When he got out, he turned to Belle and started walking toward her. Belle wondered what this could be about.

"Good evening, Belle," said the Fat Controller.

"Good evening, sir," said Belle. "The alarm hasn't sounded for a while now. What brings you here tonight?"

"As a matter of fact, you do, Belle," said the Fat Controller. "I'm sure you and Flynn are all too set for the next alarm to sound, but there's actually going to be a little change in plans."

"What do you mean, sir?" asked Belle.

"What I mean is, you won't have to worry about fighting fires for a fair while."

Belle grew curious. "Oh? Why not, sir?"

"Because the time has come again, Belle," said the Fat Controller. "I have come to inform you that your boiler ticket is due to expire tonight at midnight."

When she heard this, Belle suddenly felt a little flip in her boiler. She knew full well about these patterns, and while they were mere routine for all steam engines, she had barely given any thought to when her next ticket would be due to be put into force, and it meant she and Flynn would be separated for a fair while yet again, which always filled them with thoughts about each other.

"Oh…I-I see," she replied. "Alright. Tonight, is it?"

"Yes. As such, you must be temporarily withdrawn from business for a boiler overhaul or replacement," said the Fat Controller. "I have arranged for Molly to bring you to the Steamworks in the morning so you can be looked over and soon be issued a new ticket. In the meantime, Flynn shall manage the firefighting on his own and assist our fire engines on the road. However, should the need arise, Angus shall be called in to fight fires if Flynn is preoccupied himself."

Belle nodded steadily. Angus was a near vintage fire engine, and although he was rather old like Edward, he had years and years of experience to back him up. Thoughtful and articulate, as well as very warm and friendly with those who seemed open to his advice, he and the rest of the fire brigade could put out fires where Belle and Flynn's rails couldn't reach. To that effect, Belle and Flynn held a high level of respect for Angus.

"Alright, then. Thank you for informing me, sir," said Belle. "I suppose I'd better tell Flynn I'm going to be away…for some time. With all due respect, sir, I really ought to be right with him whenever I can be for any emergencies."

"Your dedication to your job is most admirable and highly encouraged, Belle," said the Fat Controller. "But all boiler tickets are railway protocol and fiercely essential. But don't worry. You'll be right back in the business soon enough."

"Well, I reckon those tickets are really useful themselves," said Belle. "I would never fight any fires with an outdated boiler. What then?"

"Exactly. Now, I must be getting home. See you later, Belle," the Fat Controller winked.

He then returned to his car and drove off into the night. Belle watched him go around the bend, then she looked toward the sheds and sighed steadily, feeling her boiler tingle in a particular way. The very boiler she knew was going to be inspected and overhauled in just a matter of hours.

"Well. I'd best tell him now," she said softly.

Belle proceeded for the turntable, turned herself round to Flynn's berth, then moved slowly forward, gently pressing her buffers to the shed doors and opening them slowly. Flynn looked up and smiled at once to see the love of his life come inside.

"Oh, my Big Belle," Flynn smiled. "Aren't you looking so lovely and sleek?"

"Ooh, thank you, Flynn," Belle smiled gently. "You're looking just as big and strong as ever, I see."

"Oh, yes," Flynn nodded. "So. Looking forward to the next emergency you and I can dash off to together?"

Belle didn't answer right away. Flynn then noticed she was looking down to her buffers.

"Uhh…actually, Flynn…that's going to have to wait for quite another time," she said softly.

"What? Whatever do you mean, Belle?" Flynn asked. "We always go into the action together whenever we can."

Belle took a deep breath and told Flynn about the Fat Controller and her boiler ticket. Flynn listened to everything and felt his heart start stirring unevenly. It was that time again for Belle's boiler overhaul and, or replacement to be implemented. He too knew of these patterns over the years, especially with his maintenance test that past summer when Belle was left to help Nia with her elephant. But lately, he had barely given thought toward this matter himself, and he indeed felt his plans changing already.

"O-oh…it's that time again, is it?" Flynn noted. "Hmm…that's…that's something…"

"Molly will bring me to the Steamworks tomorrow morning," said Belle. "So until I return, you'll be in charge of fighting any fires that set alight, and if you are held up yourself, Angus and the rest of the fire brigade will pitch in too."

Flynn took considerable note upon hearing Angus and nodded slowly.

"Yes, Angus is a fine fellow. But…I didn't think your next ticket process would fall upon us tomorrow. You're the finest fire engine on Sodor next to me, Belle. It's just going to be me here for a while now."

"Well, don't worry, Flynn," said Belle. "I believe you'll do perfectly alright until I return. We've managed our own fires before."

"I…I know, Belle," said Flynn. "But…just you and I…I know steam engine tickets are of utmost importance, but we'll be on separate grounds again, and I can't carve out much time to visit you in case another fire occurs and I'm too far to respond to it."

"I know, Flynn," said Belle. "I must admit, I am disappointed to go too. I won't know how long this may take until they fully inspect my boiler and put me through steam checks. But in the end, it's all part of the firefighting business…and ticket business too."

Flynn sighed and nodded slowly. "You're right. Keeping boilers shipshape whenever they need to be. That's just the ticket."

"Indeed, that's just the ticket," said Belle. "Well, it's not all bad. Given all things considered, I'm sure my boiler won't need much work, so buffers crossed, it shouldn't be too long a wait."

"Mm-hm," Flynn nodded again.

"And…since my ticket doesn't expire until midnight…" Belle continued, a little smoothly. "There are a few hours yet for you and night. Perhaps we ought to put it to proper use, wouldn't you say?"

Flynn looked up and suddenly saw Belle narrowing her eyes as she gave a very low coo like a dove, very slowly coming closer.

"B-Belle…what…what are…?" Flynn began.

"Come on, Flynn," Belle cooed. "We don't know when we'll see each other next. If either of us had any plans to douse each other's flames, we should do it tonight…while my boiler is still valid, of course."

Flynn immediately grinned from end to end and nodded.

"That is true. Your boiler still has a few surprises left for tonight," he teased. "And many more surprises to come with the new ticket. May I partake in pleasing your boiler while there's still time…Bella?"

Belle tittered as she recalled Flynn calling her that when he returned from his maintenance test, then purred vividly.

"I'm all yours, Flynn," she bubbled seductively. "Help yourself. Please me all you can, just as I know you can."

Flynn felt his wheels wobble as he leaned in and made his move. He reached out then started to lay steady kisses on Belle's chin, which made her let out petite little chirps and whimpers as he pleased her chin. A few moments later, he very softly began nibbling her right there. Belle's chin twitched and wobbled in reflex and she giggled louder.

"Oh…Ohh! F-Flynn…that tickles…t-tickles…" she giggled and tittered as Flynn kept playing with her chin.

A few moments later, he slowly withdrew, then leaned upward toward her cheeks. Belle noticed this and blushed softly as Flynn very gently brushed his lips along her smooth and creamy skin, which made him tense up a little. Then he very steadily smooched her cheek and start kissing it up, down and wherever he pleased, to which Belle moaned louder and more happily by the moment. Her cheeks were so big and firm, and yet so soft, squishy and warm to kiss and play with.

"Aww…aww, Flynn…that feels SOO good…!" Belle squealed quietly.

"Oh, Belle. Your cheeks are wonderful," Flynn said softly. "So big and soft and squishy."

Belle smiled with all her lovely white teeth. "Aww, do you really mean that, Firey Flynn?"

"Always, my Big Belle," Flynn softly replied.

Then he closed his lips around the tip of her other cheek and began to suck and tug on it persistently. Belle immediately let out sharp groan, and her eyes rolled back into her head as she felt the lovely nursing sensation on her cheek sending tickly spells sprinkling through her creamy skin.

"Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo…Mmm…that feels so good…ooh, good boy, Flynn," she purred and bubbled sweetly.

"You're such a good girl, Belle," Flynn purred in turn. "I love you so much…"

"Oh, I love you too, Flynn…I love you," Belle whispered and softly smooched her lips at him.

Flynn blushed even harder as he sucked her cheek a fair while longer, earning further moans and whimpers from Belle's lovely lips, right until he let go and suddenly pecked her pointy nose with a little kiss, making Belle snort and giggle adorably before Flynn let her catch her breath.

"Well, my love? Have I doused your flames enough?" Flynn asked playfully. "That is…until your next ticket comes through"

"Ooh…oh, my. That was fun, Flynn," she glowed lovingly. "And yes…you know just how to douse my flames perfectly, my dear."

"You're what makes it all so much fun, Belle," Flynn smiled genuinely. "Everything with you is fun."

"Ooh, is that right?" she giggled. "Well…you think that was fun…then let Big Belle show you how she does it."

Before Flynn could say anything else, Belle puckered her big thick lips, smooched noisily and seductively, then pressed her lips right to his cheek and gave him such a big kiss, she left a small little lip mark there on his cheek. Flynn blushed strongly, then Belle proceeded further, kissing and pecking his cheeks wherever she pleased, listening to Flynn's ongoing groans and chuckles to all her truly gifted nurtures.

"Mmm-ah, mmm-ah, Mmm…ah," Belle kissed and blessed Flynn as she went along. "You like that, Flynn? Mmm…ah."

"Uhh…B-Belle…!" Flynn breathed strongly. "You…you're too perfect…! Ohh…Ohh!"

"I know, Flynn. Isn't it lovely?" Belle cooed happily. "And I have just one other little gift that's even lovelier. Ahh…"

Belle sighed sensually as she closed her eyes, then opened her mouth and began to sweetly lick Flynn's cheek, trailing her tongue wetly and slickly along his face and cooing most happily as she went. Flynn felt a serious jolt in his engine as Belle's tongue tickled delightfully wherever she teased him with her loving licks.

"Tickle-tickle, Flynn. Tickle-tickle-tickle," Belle giggled and squeaked happily.

"Ahh…B-Bella! B-Beauty!" Flynn blurted out his secondary names for Belle. "Ohh…by Sodor, you're a queen!"

Belle just purred and chortled smoothly as she licked his cheek once more, planted one more huge kiss on his lips, watching as he blushed once more then caught his breath.

"Well…what do you think, Fiery Flynn?" she gleamed. "Do you feel doused enough until our next little…ahem, session together?"

"I think so, Belle," said Flynn. "That…was truly fascinating."

Belle smiled, then opened her mouth and gave a deep, lowly yawn.

"Ohh…just in time too, Flynn," she drowsed before yawning again. "I think I'll sleep soundly tonight, all thanks to your fiery abilities. Ohh…"

"Well, I know we both needed this," Flynn said as he looked down in thought. "And just as well. By the time your new ticket is ready…I think we'll have many more flames to douse inside each other…I know I certainly will. …Belle?"

Flynn noticed there was no answer. When he looked up, he saw that Belle had fallen fast asleep and was already deep in her dreams as she mumbled ever-so quietly and stirred softly once or twice. Despite her going away for a while, Flynn could only smile to this adorable sight as he nuzzled in and cuddled her face as close as he could, making the very best they could for tonight.

"Sweet dreams, my Big Belle," he whispered. "I love you."

"Sweet dreams, Fiery Flynn," Belle mumbled in her dreams. "I love you too."

Soon, Flynn settled down himself, and the two fire engines were huddled face to face and sound asleep together, holding as close as they could until morning would come. And sure enough, as the clock stroke twelve midnight, in their deep, deep sleep, both Belle and Flynn felt a little roll in their boilers as the moment officially came. Belle's current boiler ticket was now expired, and her service to the railway would be paused until the next ticket would arrive in due course.

When the next morning arrived, Belle and Flynn felt the coming sunrise and slowly woke up together with a steady yawn. Their eyes opened and befell each other's faces, and within moments, it dawned upon them both. As per railway protocol, Belle was no longer adequate to run under her own steam until her boiler was overhauled or replaced and the next ticket would be processed and approved.

"Good morning, Belle," Flynn said gently. "Well…I suppose this is it."

"Yes, Flynn. It is," Belle said gently. "So…Do you feel ready to take the big load by yourself, with Angus too?"

"As ready as I need to be, Belle," said Flynn. "For the Search and Rescue Centre, and above all, between us…you, my Big Beautiful Belle."

Belle couldn't help but smile sweetly as she leaned in and kissed Flynn on his lips.

"I love you, honey-pie," she whispered.

"I love you too, my perfect babe," Flynn whispered and kissed her lips too.

Then right on cue, both fire engines heard a distant whistle from outside, and their shed door suddenly opened. Belle's driver and fireman were there waiting, and just outside the shed, Molly had arrived with a flatbed to take Belle to the Steamworks and begin the overhauling process.

"Good morning, Molly," the two fire engines said together.

"Good morning, Flynn," said Molly. "And Belle too. Are you ready to go?"

"That I am, Molly," said Belle. "Time for the next ticket."

"Yes, I've heard it all," said Molly. "First, I'll just bring you out myself so Rocky can load you aboard. After all, your ticket has served its time right up to midnight."

Flynn watched as Molly rolled over the turntable, coupled up to Belle, then she gently pulled her out of the shed and beside Rocky. Flynn followed them outside, then watched as Rocky loaded Belle onto Molly's flatbed, then the workmen secured her down with chains, ready for her little trip and temporary retreat from duty. Behind them both, Harold, Rocky, Butch and Captain were all watching from the land and the water.

"Well…here I go, Flynn," said Belle. "I'm off for an overhaul, and a new ticket."

Flynn just nodded gently. "Yes…well, I'll see you soon, Belle."

"You too, Flynn. See you soon," Belle smiled as she blew him a kiss.

Then Molly whistled and set off down the line. Rocky, Butch, Harold, Captain and especially Flynn kept their eyes right on Belle until she and Molly were around the bend and out of sight. The lines of smoke and steam faded away, then Flynn took a little breath.

"And then there were five…until the next ticket," he sighed.

"That's right, Flynn," said Rocky. "Just until the next ticket. I'll bet my crane arm Belle's boiler ticket will come through swimmingly."

"That it will, chaps," said Harold. "After all, Belle takes such good care of herself, as do we all."

Flynn just sighed as he and the rest of the rescue vehicles resumed their business, standing by for anything that needed their service, while Belle rode on Molly's flatbed along the line toward the Steamworks, thinking as to how long this pause would be and just how her boiler tests would go along over the time that was to come.

"You know, Molly. I can only wonder what Flynn will be doing and thinking about in my absence," said Belle. "Just this past summer, he was away from me for days on end for his maintenance tests, during such time I helped Nia with her elephant, and it left us both needing to quench each other's lustful drive."

"I think I know what you mean, Belle," said Molly. "With James and I on separate ends of the railway, every now and then, I feel myself wanting to meet up with him and settle some strong spells between us, and I'm sure he feels that himself. As for you, I'm sure your boiler overhaul will go very nicely."

"I do hope so, thank you, Molly," said Belle.

Soon enough, Molly arrived at the Steamworks and brought Belle inside. Victor, Kevin and the workmen were all ready and waiting. The workmen undid Belle's chains, then the ceiling hooks came down and hoisted Belle off her flatbed and into the air. Then they gently lowered her down to the Steamworks turntable.

"Well, let's get to work, my friend," was all Victor said.

Molly whistled goodbye to Belle and went on her way, then Belle's overhauling process for her new boiler ticket officially began…

---

Time steadily passed on the railway, and at the Search and Rescue Centre. One day passed. Then two, then three. Each day, Belle was kept at the Steamworks, completely inactive both on the ground and in the air on the ceiling hooks while she was thoroughly inspected, checked and analyzed inside and outside her boiler. The railway inspectors also came by now and then to log her progress, while back at the Rescue Centre, there were no fires for Flynn to rush to, which gradually left him bored and tired of constantly waiting for something to happen, especially since he didn't have Belle to anticipate it with.

A fourth day passed. Five, six and then seven. Belle had been gone for a whole week and the overhauling was still going. By this time, Halloween had passed, and now it was November 5th, the occasion for Guy Fawkes Night. A day marked in history for celebrating what was known as the Failure of the Gunpowder Plot. Way back in 1605, a group of conspirators had plotted a rebellion against King James the First, but when the House of Lords received an anonymous letter about this scheme, the plot was swiftly countered, and the conspirators were all put to justice through the Law of Britain. Celebrated across the United Kingdom ever since, this occasion was accompanied by fireworks, bonfires and feasts. The whole North Western Railway knew all too well about this celebration, and everyone was excited as to what would be done to celebrate. The Steam Team and a few other engines were excited about this occasion too as they hurried to Ulfstead Castle, where Sir Robert Norramby had an important announcement to make.

"Tonight is Guy Fawkes Night," he announced. "To celebrate the occasion, I will be hosting my annual fireworks display here at the castle at nightfall. All ladies, gentlemen and engines who are able to attend are most welcome!"

The engines whistled with excitement and left the castle, bustling throughout the day to get their work done in time for the fireworks. Thomas and Emily were particularly excited as they remembered the firework display some years earlier after they and the other engines braved through that especially foggy day when Samson grew frightened of Cyril the Fogman's detonators with Bradford trying to ease his fears.

"I'm really looking forward to the fireworks, Emily," said Thomas. "Aren't you?"

"Of course I am, Thomas," Emily chimed happily. "It's just too bad Belle can't be there to see them and keep guard, what with her ticket overhaul still going."

"I know. But you know what that means," said Thomas. "Flynn can be there tonight. After all, he was supposed to keep watch that night when he felt as though Belle didn't need his help, when he asked me to tell her."

Before Emily could answer, the Fat Controller came driving along the road beside the line.

"Say, Emily!" he called.

"Yes, sir?" Emily called back.

"I've a little errand for you to run," said the Fat Controller. "As Belle is still having her boiler overhauled, please tell Flynn he's on standby duty for the firework display tonight."

"Of course, sir. I'll go right away," Emily promised. "I'll see you at the castle, Thomas."

"You too, Emily. See you later," Thomas whistled as Emily set off down the line by herself.

At the Search and Rescue Centre, Flynn had been standing by in his shed almost all the time, waiting for any fires to make haste to. Every day he found himself wondering about Belle and how her overhaul was going. Every now and then, he had given little thoughts about going to the Steamworks to visit her, but with the constant chance of the alarm sounding at any time, Flynn didn't think it prudent to take the chance, even with Angus on standby too.

"I do hope she's back with a new ticket soon," said Flynn. "There's been very little for me to do of late."

At that moment, Flynn heard Emily's whistle and she came along the line and across the turntable toward his shed.

"Hello, Emily," said Flynn. "What brings you here?"

"The Fat Controller sent me, Flynn," said Emily. "The Earl is hosting his annual fireworks display tonight for Guy Fawkes Night at Ulfstead Castle, and since Belle is still waiting for her new ticket, you are to attend the event tonight in case of any fires."

Flynn thought back to the time he had been asked by Thomas to do this very job when he felt like Belle didn't need his help several years ago. Now with her at the Steamworks for a fair while yet, he couldn't let her down now. It was all up to him this time.

"Alright, then. I'll be ready," Flynn replied. "Thanks for informing me, Emily. It'll be much better than just sitting around here, waiting as long as I have."

"It'll be exciting to see them too, as it always is," said Emily. "Speaking of which, has there been any word on Belle's progress?"

"Two days ago, driver received an update," said Flynn. "The Steamworks say Belle's boiler isn't in too bad shape. It only requires minor touch-ups, so this overhaul won't take as long as we had worried about…but it probably could have been a little briefer too. No rushing these things, of course, but still…"

"Well, that's still good news on her part. See you at the castle, Flynn," Emily whistled as she set off again.

"Ohh, there must be something I can do until then," Flynn said to himself. "If only Belle and I could have reached Misty Island in time together…"

"Well, you two were certainly ready for anything that night," said his driver. "I wouldn't expect any less than that from you, Flynn."

The hours passed from morning to noon, then the afternoon. The engines continued their work with passengers and goods trains alike, while Flynn continued to wait and stand by for any emergency that would require his speed and dedication. Eventually, the clock struck 4:00 p.m. The fireworks display would be on in just a few more hours, and Flynn could only wonder what would happen tonight.

"If only she could see the fireworks herself tonight," Flynn sighed. "If she and I could have seen them together, that would be truly lo-"

Suddenly, the alarm started blaring through the area. Flynn's heart jumped and he suddenly changed his approach as the Rescue Manager ran out towards him at once.

"Finally! An alarm! Where to, sir?" Flynn asked excitedly.

"Flynn! We've got a burning house at Cabalnoo," said the manager. "The fire brigade is on patrol right now, and they could really use your hoses!"

"Right! I'm on it, sir!" Flynn pledged, then he set off with a roar down the line.

"This has certainly been a quiet week, Flynn," his driver called from his cab. "Now we're off again!"

"Well, it's no surprise that it's a house fire," said Flynn. "It's still too early for traditional bonfires right now."

For a fair while, Flynn dashed and rushed along the Main Line Loop as it was usually quicker to get to Cabalnoo by rail, and so it seemed to be. He ran swiftly along the line, faster and faster he went, all too ready to put his hoses to action, but then a few minutes later, as he approached Killaban, he saw a long line of workmen with checkered barriers and red flags. Ahead on the line was Rowland the Ballast Regulator, inspecting each ballast sleeper along the line. The workmen saw Flynn and waved the red flags at once. Flynn slowed down, but with a house fire burning away, he was still very urgent.

"Say! What's going on here?!" he exclaimed. "I have a fire to fight at Cabalnoo! I've GOT to get through!"

"Sorry, Flynn," said a workman. "The line from here to the Flour Mills up to Cabalnoo is closed for repairs."

"Furthermore, trees have fallen further up the line," said another one. "You'll have to travel by road from here, Flynn."

"Yes, that's exactly right, Flynn," Rowland sniffed importantly and a little stuffily. "Besides, it's my duty to spread and clean track ballast of any and all impurities. It's a most gifted and truly delicate art, you see, and of course, I have absolute sheer perfection of every sleeper of ballast I cast my eyes upon."

Rowland often spoke this way. With spreading and cleaning track ballast being his all-time job, he believed such work was an art form of its own, and having built an artistic personality as this, he would often rant and rave about his ballasts' utter perfection, which often made those around him bored and even cross, as Flynn was quickly finding out himself as Rowland went on.

"Ballast spreading is a most delicate art-form that cannot ever be rushed, just as you can never rush art. That most divine oil-painter Percy chauffeured around knows that to pure, utmost perfection, just as I do myself, and all the rest of us must see that-"

"God's Sake, Rowland!" Flynn suddenly snapped, making Rowland look up at once. "I haven't time to listen to another one of your lectures about your downright RIDICULOUS excuse of an 'art-form,' when I have a house fire to put out, and probably people's lives to save! And you? It's like you're a magpie on wheels! A bloody spoiled magpie who is constantly looking around, picking up little bits of glitter, ergo ballast glitter, and then scurrying back and getting your butlers to bloody expedite it for you!"

Rowland was utterly shocked and speechless as Flynn angrily lowered himself down to road level and made ready to leave the line, but not before he snapped out a few more words to the Ballast Regulator.

"All that matters right now, and for ALWAYS, is that I am able to rush and save people who may be in danger of fires. You can do us all an enormous favor, Rowland, and spare the whole island your meaningless lectures! Amen!"

Then Flynn roared off the line and sped down the side road to carry on. Rowland, of course, was greatly insulted by all this.

"How dare you ridicule the lifelong endeavors of an accomplished artist!" he called out. But Flynn was too far away to hear, or care.

Flynn raced strongly and swiftly along the road, disappointed and rathe irritated by the little delay he had just been dealt. In any fire situation, every second counted, and Rowland's lectures certainly never helped anyone. Flynn kept racing along the main road as fast as he could, knowing that if he could reach the flour mills, then he could get back on the rails. But less than ten minutes later, he looked ahead and had to slow down again. In the distance, Isobella the Steam Lorry and Kelly the Crane Lorry were clearing a large fallen tree off the road.

"Ohh! Now what?!" he exclaimed. "Excuse me, but I have a fire to fight at Cabalnoo!"

"So sorry, Flynn," called Isobella. "We're working all we can here."

Flynn panted with slight indecision as he turned down a smaller road and away from the flour mills. Given the delays thus far, he now knew he'd have to stay on the roads and head back to the nearest junction to take the next best route. As he rushed back along the road to find the junction, he couldn't help but gripe to himself.

"All these roadblocks right when there's a burning house that needs my help!" he grunted. "Is Sudrian karma determined to withhold me from being useful?!"

"Delays are never planned or arranged, Flynn," said his driver. "None of these delays were premediated. It's just what happened to be at these given moments."

"That shouldn't withhold me from saving a burning building, and saving someone's life." Flynn replied. "That's what I ought to be doing! And what's Rowland's biggest worry?! His precious ballast art and his bloody ballast talk! He is such a BURDEN! Even Spencer doesn't blab at such magnitude!"

Soon, Flynn's path brought him back to the main road, far from the fallen tree, but he still wasn't happy.

"Damn it all, this is all taking me much longer than it should be to get to that damn fire!" Flynn exclaimed. "If only Belle were on the run too, I wouldn't have to worry and stress this much!"

After a few more minutes of rushing along the road, Flynn looked up and suddenly saw a line of dark smoke wafting through the air, then he looked further down the road.

"A-ha! Look! There it is!" he exclaimed.

And it was. Just a few hundred yards away was the burning house Flynn had been alerted for. With a blow on his horn, he revved his engine and rushed to reach the fire, but just as he readied his hoses for action, there came a sudden pop from beneath him and he suddenly lurched over to one side as a hissing sound steadily followed.

"Wha-?! No! No, no, no, no, NOOO!"

Trouble had struck Flynn once again as his front right tyre had popped and flattened, stranding him a fair distance yet from the fire he was so Hellbent on reaching to put out. Just as it had happened before years ago, there was nothing Flynn could do now. Fortunately, he saw that Angus and the rest of the fire brigade were already at the scene of the fire, spraying water wherever they had to. Flynn was relieved he wasn't the only one at the fire, but after all that had happened so far, he felt very bad not to have reached the fire himself. Angus' driver suddenly saw Flynn and came running along the road toward him.

"Oh, dear, Flynn. What a time to get a flat tyre," he said.

"Like Hell, it is," Flynn huffed, clearly frustrated. "Delay after delay after delay wherever I rushed to get here, and THIS is how I end up? A flat tyre when I'm just about to make ready and save the building!"

"Well, don't harp yourself, Flynn," said Angus' driver. "There have been no injuries thus far, and you certainly did all you could to get here. I wouldn't expect any different."

But Flynn still felt awful for not being able to reach the fire on time. All he could do was watch and mourn as Angus and the fire brigade steadily put the fire out and the smoke cleared away, then the fire chief ran to telephone the Rescue Centre to bring Butch over to tow Flynn back. Luckily, no one was hurt in that fire and had all escaped the building safely, but in the end, the fire had still caused significant damage, quite like Brandon and Helga's home when it went up in flames just before Christmas some years ago. Flynn could only stare and brood in the thought that he could have helped to alleviate had he not been forced to make so many detours, then burst his tyre right at the finish line.

As Flynn continued to wait for Butch, Angus came rolling up alongside him.

"Say, Flynn? Are you alright?" he asked.

"I wish I could say so, Angus," said Flynn. "But it seems that everything was against me today. I rushed with all speed and haste to reach that fire, but what did I get along the way?! First I was delayed at Killaban where the workmen were managing more ballast and where Rowland never takes the hint that nobody cares about his artistic views, then Isobella and Kelly had to clear a tree off the roads, and now, literally yards away from my range to reach the fire, here I am with a blown tyre!"

"Hmm. Yes, we heard about those delays on those stretches of line and the road," said Angus.

"It's all absolute hogwash!" Flynn exclaimed, clearly frustrated. "I could have saved that building! But of course, Sudrian Karma is TOO punctual! This is NO way for a fire engine to perform in any emergency! NO seconds can be wasted in the matter of a fire! All THIS? Just for Belle's new boiler ticket?! It makes me think to when she and I were under brief risk when the railway inspectors questioned the need for two fire engines on the island. I blew my tyre that time too, but I still had Belle to rush over and put out that fire. This time, it was just me, and I don't have her to rely on when I failed!"

"Flynn, stop kicking yourself in your engine," Angus said solidly.

"Uhh, I can't help it, Angus!" Flynn replied. "I know I shouldn't feel like I'm letting everyone down, especially Belle, but I feel so just the same! When I'm called upon for an emergency, people expect me to be there, no matter what the conditions."

"Your ironclad dedication to the fire service is golden, Flynn. No question there," said Angus. "But you must understand. Those delays are not your fault. There's no way you could have foreseen them. If anything, it was only lucky I happened to be near Cabalnoo before that blaze could have gotten much worse, and if that had happened where the roads couldn't easily reach, I more than likely wouldn't have made it on time to save the day."

Flynn nodded slowly, knowing Angus was right, but it didn't do much to improve his mood after being so dedicated to doing his duty.

"In the end, it was only one fire, Fynn," Angus went on. "Everyone here is safe, and I know that if Belle were here now, she would see that your struggles only show just how dedicated you really are to your job. That's what makes you Sodor's best fire engine right along with her. You know it, I know it, and so does she."

By this time, Flynn couldn't help but smile as he took it in and sighed.

"Thank you, Angus. I certainly know I can trust your word for it."

Soon afterwards, Butch arrived and hitched Flynn to his carrying hook, ready to tow him back to the Rescue Centre for a new tyre. As Flynn was towed on his way back, he told Butch everything as well.

"Oh, dear. Delays, delays. Nothing but delays," Butch noted.

"Exactly, Butch," said Flynn. "If only all those blockages hadn't gotten in my way, I probably could have saved that house quicker."

"Well, don't put yourself down, Flynn," said Butch. "You remember what Angus said…and in other news, I think you'll be glad to hear that we've heard another update from the Steamworks."

Flynn suddenly perked up. "Belle? How is she?"

"The Steamworks say her overhaul has gone very well so far, and it won't be too much longer before she's back in action right along with you."

"I do hope so," Flynn sighed. "Especially after today…"

When they got back to the Rescue Centre, the workmen removed Flynn's flat tyre and installed a new one, putting him fit to go back on the road again. As Flynn stood up right again with his new tyre, he still felt unhappy with himself not to have reached that fire, even though Angus' words were all absolutely true. He looked down the line, then with a deep breath, a sigh, then a sudden urge in his heart, Flynn made a decision. After all the trivial and petty roadblocks that had kept him at bay today, the only one who could give him a significant uplift now was…

"By Scots, I HAVE to see her!" he exclaimed. "She's the best one I could see right now. I MUST see her."

And Flynn started up again and sped on his way along the line and roads toward Crovan's Gate, and beyond…

---

At the Steamworks, a lot had been going on surrounding Belle. With Victor and Kevin's help, the workmen's consistent efforts and the railway inspectors' occasional visits, her boiler had now been overhauled as per the ongoing ticket process. Now she was finally able to put back in steam and start running safety checks as her driver and fireman carefully managed her mechanisms. The three railway inspectors of course were there as well to observe her every move and log her results. With each check so far, they were pleased and convinced her ticket would come through soon.

"Well, your checks seem to be in tiptop order so far, Belle," said the head inspector. "We'll continue to monitor your progress for a fair while more."

Then the three inspectors left. But despite the good progress so far, Belle wasn't much enthused. After a whole week's time being held here, she was beginning to feel a trifle lonely without Flynn, and a little restless as the dedicated fire engine she was.

"Ohh…dear, me," she sighed steadily.

"What is it, Belle?" Victor asked.

"Boiler tickets and overhauls may be elementary to all steam engines, Victor," said Belle. "But this whole entire week, I've been bored out of my smokebox having to stay here, on the ground and on the ceiling hooks. Even Emily wasn't stuck here as long as me, when she needed those new piston rods Thomas brought in for her. She only had to deal three days here."

"Don't forget there was her big tumble too, you know," Victor put in. "Two weeks she had to spend here after those Mainland Trucks threw her off the line and over James' bridge, after which Thomas' demon sprung loose for the final time, after which Emily and Edward helped end all of that for him."

"Yes, I do remember, Victor. But still," said Belle. "I really ought to be back out there with Flynn."

"Believe me, Belle, I know just what you mean," said Victor. "But you must understand that until the Fat Controller obtains your new boiler ticket, you must not go anywhere under your own steam. It's North Western Railway Protocol for all of us. Even I have a boiler ticket to be overhauled every eight to ten years."

Belle just sighed again, understanding Victor's point but still wishing badly she was back in action. Then almost right on cue, she heard a distinctive horn and looked outside with a jump in her heart. There was Flynn rolling right on into the Steamworks. After a whole week away from her love, Belle was most delighted and pleased to see him again.

"Ohh! Flynn! Came to see me after all, did you?" she chimed, but then she saw he wasn't exactly happy. "Flynn? Are you alright?"

"Hello, Belle," Flynn said lowly. "It's been a long week for us both. All week, I had nothing to do…but now, after what happened to me today, I just had to see you."

"Why, Flynn? What happened?" she asked.

Flynn told Belle all about the fire at Cabalnoo and all the troubles he had in trying to get there, right until his tyre blew out. Belle listened to everything and knew all-too well as to what Flynn could have been feeling today.

"It just wasn't fair," he said strongly. "All my efforts to stop that fire, and it was just delay after delay after delay! I know Angus and the rest of the brigade were there to manage the fire, but had I just gotten there sooner without a blown tyre, I might have saved that house faster! I know I shouldn't feel this way, Belle, but through all that fuss, I feel as though I've let you down, and the fire brigade too."

Belle understood everything Flynn had just said, but as she thought carefully about all the circumstances today, she looked right at Flynn and smiled steadily. Flynn noticed this and wonder what she would probably say.

"My Fiery Flynn," she soothed gently. "Come here."

Flynn rolled slowly toward Belle until he was right at her buffers. Then she spoke again.

"You didn't let anyone down today. Not Angus, not the brigade, and most importantly, not me," she said. "On the contrary, you did just what a really useful fire engine should always do. Keep pressing on through whatever trouble comes your way."

Flynn had to smile.

"Well…I certainly agree with you there, Belle. Angus told me likewise just before Butch towed me home."

And he told her what Angus had said as well. Belle listened again and nodded steadily as Flynn went on.

"I just think we should be able to reach a fire as soon as we absolutely can…regardless of any delays on the roads or the line."

"Well, Angus couldn't have said it any differently," Belle smiled. "You really shouldn't harp yourself on all of this, Flynn. Just as Angus said, those delays weren't your fault, and there was no way you could have foreseen them. It was only one fire, everyone made it out safely, and most importantly to me, the fact that you were so dedicated and hellbent to reach it despite all those roadblocks and delays just shows how truly seriously you take your duty…and why I fell in love with you."

Flynn looked up and had to smile to his beloved fire engine's words.

"Oh, Belle…I…Thank you. Your dedication to your duty is just as ironclad as mine…and as you and I know, that's exactly why I fell in love you too."

"Yes. I know, my Firey Flynn," Belle crooned lovingly. "I know that next time, you will make it. And tonight, you will keep things safe the Earl's firework display, just as I did before when I was at the castle."

Then she leaned in and kissed Flynn on his cheek. Flynn looked away and blushed lightly.

"Yes, Belle. I certainly will," he grinned.

"Well, what are you waiting for?" said Belle. "The sun is setting and you'd better be on your way. And don't worry…I'll be back soon enough."

Flynn nodded and smiled cleverly to his love. "See you very soon, Big Belle."

Then he set off out of the Steamworks and back along the line to head for Ulfstead. As he sped along, Flynn now felt a good deal better to have seen Belle after a whole week, and her words were resonating with him more and more by the moment. If there was any engine whose words Flynn could always trust, it was most definitely his Big Belle.

Soon, just as the sun set, Flynn made it to Ulfstead Castle. Thomas, Emily, Percy, Gordon and Rebecca had come along too to bring the guests and see the fireworks themselves with Stephen, Glynn and Millie. Flynn parked right on the spot where Belle had stood guard some years ago, and soon enough, Sir Robert came along and made the call.

"The sun has set, and night has come!" he announced. "Make ready to light the sky for this years' firework display and for Guy Fawkes Night!"

Then in the very next moment, the fuses were lit, and all the engines and guests looked to the sky as the fireworks started whistling, crackling and booming through the sky, bursting out in multiple colours, shapes and patterns in and amongst the stars. Thomas and Emily cheered and laughed merrily as the other engines stared in awe and enjoyment. Flynn maintained his prepared stature, but still felt the awe and enjoyment of the fireworks just the same as everyone else.

"She would have loved this," he said to himself. "Just as she did when she stood guard here."

For twenty minutes, thirty minutes, perhaps even forty minutes, the fireworks continued to soar through the sky and crackle away into bursts of lights, colours and more. It was indeed a most exciting experience for everyone at the castle. Flynn found himself enjoying it very nicely in the midst of his duty of standing by, and to his pleasure and relief, throughout the whole event, there were no mishaps or emergencies that needed his service tonight.

Eventually, the fireworks display came to an end as the last firework boomed and sparkled through the sky. Then quiet settled through the air, followed by a series of applause, cheers and whistles from all the guests and engines alike. Everyone congratulated Sir Robert for his firework display and thought it was the best display they had seen yet. All the engines agreed and all beamed happily as they left the castle to bring their guests home. Flynn set off on his way back to the Search and Rescue Centre. Although the display had gone perfectly well, he had to admit it was a good thing he was there, just in case. As he and everyone knew, you can't have too many fire engines on Sodor, or anywhere else.

As night settled on the island, Flynn returned to the Search and Rescue Centre and settled right inside his shed. As he sighed deeply and rested his wheels, he now felt even more sure of himself thanks to Belle's encouragement and the fact that her new boiler ticket was drawing in all the nearer, bringing her closer to coming back to working with him again.

"Thank you, Belle," Flynn said softly as he looked outside to the stars. "May your new ticket come forth very soon."

And Flynn went to sleep with a sensation of surety in his heart as he awaited Belle's new boiler ticket and the next fire that would need his speed and dedication.

A few more days went by. Belle's safety checks carried on with consistently successful results, inching her closer and closer to her new boiler ticket, while Flynn continued to stand by at the Rescue Centre, constantly thinking about what his love had told him. After his delayed trip before, he strongly hoped and prayed that Belle's words would prove to be true this time.

Then one afternoon, Flynn was at the Centre's main platform, standing by for the next emergency. Harold was on patrol flying about the island, and by now, despite his visit to the Steamworks, Flynn was really itching for Belle to return to work again.

"Eleven whole days since she had to leave," he said to himself. "Her boiler ticket can't come soon enough."

"It shouldn't be much longer, I think, Flynn," said his driver. "And besides, we ought to be keeping ready for the next fire we need to fight. Hopefully without any undue delays this time."

"I agree," said Flynn. "But all the same, all I want right now is for her to be back in the game with me."

Less than a moment after Flynn had spoken, the alarm sounded again. Flynn looked up at once and once again felt his firefighting instincts kick in. In the next moment, he saw the Rescue Manager rush out towards him.

"Impeccable timing! What's the scoop, sir?" Flynn asked. "Who or what needs my hoses to roar into action"

"Serious business, Flynn! We've got a fire up at Dingley Hall, burning the rooftops! You're the only one that can get there! Don't let the fire get ahead of your hoses!"

"I'll stop it!" Flynn pledged. "And no delays are holding me now!"

"Then off you go! Every second counts!" the Manager ordered.

"Now's my chance! Here I go, Belle!" Flynn called out surely.

Then he started with a roar and raced down the line up toward Edward's Branch Line, fully determined not to be held at bay this time, given the destination. Dingley Hall was a very stately home that had eventually been converted into a hotel owned by a couple name Mr. and Mrs. Ball. The building's estate had grounds that stretched far and wide, with a lake and even a railway platform called Dingley Halt. If all went well today, this would give Flynn a good close range to stop the fire.

"I'm not being roadblocked this time," Flynn said strongly as he sped along. "Rowland or no Rowland, trees or no trees, Dingley Hall needs me!"

"It's one of the finest halls on Sodor, Flynn," his driver said. "Go for it, mate!"

"You've got it, mate!"

Flynn hurried and raced along Edward's Branch Line, past Suddery and up towards Upper Brendam. Flynn looked and saw a line of black smoke weaving through the air, telling him he was very close. He turned round another bend, and sure enough, there was Dingley Hall. Flynn looked swiftly along the wide open field and past the lake, then as he neared Dingley Halt, he saw the building's roof was indeed on fire. Flame and smoke billowed and licked away across almost half the roof. Just outside the main doors, a large crowd of hotel guests, and Mr. and Mrs. Ball were gathered safely together.

"There he is, everyone!" Mr. Ball called. "Fiery Flynn is here! Save the roof, will you, mate?"

Flynn stopped right on Dingley Halt and nodded. "Don't worry, Mr. and Mrs. Ball! I'll handle this!"

His driver and a few firefighters came down and made ready with the hoses.

"Alright, ladies and gentlemen. Stand back!" Flynn's driver ordered.

Flynn looked directly at the burning roof and took direct aim.

"Alright, mates! Full blast!"

And sure enough, Flynn's hoses burst out strong waves of water through the air and onto Dingley Hall's roof. Smoke and steam billowed and hissed wildly from the rooftops as the flames steadily dissipated. Flynn kept his eye right on the roof and kept his hoses surging out streams of water. Then sure enough, not even five minutes later, the flames disappeared, the smoke and steam cleared away, and Dingley Hall was saved. The roof would need some repairs, of course, but the building was otherwise saved and now secure. Flynn took a few breaths before he looked again and saw the result of his dedication and speedy arrival today.

"I…I did it!" he exclaimed. "The fire's OUT!"

"Well done, Flynn!" Mrs. Ball rejoiced. "What would we ever do without you?"

"I'm just here to do my duty to the fire brigade and all of Sodor," said Flynn. "Just as Belle does just the same, just as soon as her new boiler ticket is ready."

"And you indeed reached the fire that needed your hoses, Flynn," his driver smiled. "Just as Belle said you would."

"I know that," Flynn murmured and smiled as everyone cheered for him.

Soon afterwards, Flynn was on his way back to the Search and Rescue Centre, beaming proudly. After his jumbled journey to Cabalnoo some days ago, there couldn't have been a better way for him to bounce right back, and he couldn't wait to tell Belle the news. But in just a very short period of time, an even bigger surprise awaited him and her.

When Flynn returned to the Rescue Centre, all the rescue vehicles and the manager had gathered round.

"We heard everything, Flynn," said the Rescue Manager. "I can't say much more than my most sincere congratulations on saving Dingley Hall."

"And with most favourable timing, I'd say," said Angus. "No delays or troubles today, eh, Flynn?"

"Not this time, Angus, no," said Flynn. "And most fitting for me to reach Dingley Hall in time."

"You have done Dingley Hall a great service in stopping that fire, Flynn," said the manager. "In appreciation, I believe your efforts today will make the front page of the Sodor Times newspaper by tomorrow."

"Oh, I'm sure it will, thank you!" said Flynn.

At that moment, another workman came out of the Rescue Centre and waved to the manager.

"Excuse me, sir. You're wanted on the telephone."

The manager quickly went inside while the rescue vehicles waited. Two minutes later, the manager came out again and looked notably right at Flynn.

"What is it, sir? Who was on the phone?" Flynn asked.

The manager slowly smiled. "Flynn…You may have just gotten back after Dingley Hall…but I think there's now excellent news for you."

"What? What is it?" Flynn asked.

"Well…perhaps you should go to the Steamworks and find out for yourself," said the manager. "I think Belle and a few others have a little something for the two of you."

In that instant, without taking any guesses, Flynn darted off and away from the Centre, his heart racing and his wheels wobbling with sheer anticipation. After all this time, was it really…? Could it be? Flynn hurried and beamed all along his way until he saw the Steamworks up ahead, and caught glimpse of the Fat Controller's car parked just outside. This gave Flynn a sudden spark of what he had been hoping for over the past eleven days, and with a toot on his horn, he went right inside. There, Belle was sitting on the Steamworks turntable with the three railway inspectors and the Fat Controller standing nearby. Then the workmen spun the turntable and Belle right around just in time for her to see Flynn coming in. The inspectors and the Fat Controller all looked and saw as he came nearer and saw Belle was smiling from buffer to buffer.

"Well. Look who's here," she said proudly. "A big, strong and dedicated fire engine fresh from saving Dingley Hall, so I hear?"

"Well…Hello, Belle. And…y-yes, I did just come from there," said Flynn. "Saved the building as soon as I heard the alarm…and just as you told me, I really did make it in time. No delays, no bother, no waiting."

"Of course. I knew it had to be," Belle chimed merrily.

"We heard the news too, Flynn," said the Fat Controller. "And we couldn't be more proud of you for stopping that fire at Dingley Hall for Mr. and Mrs. Ball."

"Just like Belle, you're an excellent fire engine, Flynn," said the head inspector.

"Really useful," said the other one.

"Mm-hmm," said the third one.

"Oh, yes. I'm absolutely proud of you too, Flynn," said Belle. "I knew you could manage with Angus…until I'd come back."

Flynn suddenly went still and looked right at his love, to which she looked right back at him.

"Say…that reminds me, Belle," Flynn said with a smile. "The Rescue Manager received a call just after I returned…and he says there's a little something for you and I…right here."

Belle's eyes widened just a little and her smile grew a little bigger.

"Ohh, yes, I believe there is, Flynn," she gleamed. "Sir Topham Hatt?"

The Fat Controller nodded with a smile and came forth. Flynn could see his hands were behind his back. Then he brought them forth, and in his hands, he held a folded piece of paper. Both fire engines' hearts jumped and raced excitedly as the Fat Controller unfolded the paper, then spoke proudly.

"Ladies, gentlemen and engines here at the Steamworks. I am happy and proud to say that after thorough inspections, precise tests, successful safety checks with our railway inspectors, and the straightforward protocol of any and all steam engines' boilers, Belle's new boiler ticket has arrived and is now officially in effect!"

All the workmen cheered and clapped as the Fat Controller showed the ticket to Flynn, then to Belle. They could see all three of the railway inspector's signatures, and the Fat Controller's too, and they both absolutely beamed with utter gratitude and joy.

"That's the ticket!" Flynn and Belle cheered together.

"Here it is, Belle," said the Fat Controller. "Your new boiler ticket, now in force for the next eight to ten years."

"Ohh…by my hoses! Thank you, sir!" Belle swelled most happily.

Her driver shook the inspectors' hands, then shook the Fat Controller's hand as he took the ticket and put in his inner coat pocket to keep safe until the next ticket. Then her fireman started making ready.

"Alright then, Belle," he said. "Let's bring you back into the business, and put your new ticket to use!"

Flynn waited with great anticipation as Belle's fireman lit her fire, then her driver released her brakes, then opened the regulator and at long last, Belle started up again under her own steam. Flynn's eyes lit up and his lips smiled from tyre to tyre as he saw his Beautiful Big Belle let off a little wisp of steam and stood happily right there with her new boiler ticket now in force and her hoses back in action to join him wherever they would go together.

"Well, my friend," said Victor. "The Search and Rescue Centre will be most pleased to have you back."

"Thank you, Victor," said Belle. "It's truly grand to be back. Especially back with you, Flynn."

"Well, waste not, Big Belle," Flynn said with a clever wink. "I believe we have lots to do."

"Oh, that we do," Belle bubbled gleefully. "Well, thank you all for bringing my new ticket to full fruition."

"You're truly welcome, Belle," said the head inspector. "Now you go on with Flynn and rejoin the finest rescue team on Sodor."

Belle whistled proudly, then off she set with Flynn, out of the Steamworks and into the open air again. Belle certainly felt most thankful to feel her wheels turning and her pistons pumping again.

"Whoo! SO good being out and about again!" she whistled happily. "And well done again, Flynn! You were just wonderful at Dingley Hall!"

"Thank you, Belle," Flynn smiled. "It's absolutely fantastic to have you back again. Your new boiler ticket shall certainly serve us both very well, and the rest of the team will be glad to see you again too."

The two fire engines ran steadily along the line together as afternoon slowly turned to evening. Then as Belle and Flynn turned the corner and the Rescue Centre came into view, they saw quite a gathering up ahead. Harold, Rocky, Butch, and Angus all stood together, with Captain looking on from the water. Along the platform, the Rescue Manager and all the workmen were there too, and as Belle and Flynn approached the platform, there came a very rousing welcome for Belle and her new ticket.

"Belle! Welcome back!" the Rescue Manager smiled.

"Thank you, sir," Belle smiled.

"Most lovely to have Big Belle back in business!" Harold proclaimed.

"It's just the ticket for our full and complete rescue team here," said Rocky.

"Without a doubt," Butch added.

"Our Big Belle and Fiery Flynn now back together to do their dues," called Captain. "That's the ticket!"

And everyone cheered again for both fire engines. Once the cheering calmed down, Flynn told everyone about his firefighting at Dingley Hall and how it went so well right from the start. Everyone was proud and happy for Flynn to have managed as well as he did, and Angus was particularly pleased with Flynn's accomplishment followed by his beloved Belle coming back home.

---

As evening settled in on the island, the rescue vehicles slowly started to settle in for the night. Flynn and Belle stood at the platform side by side watching as the stars began to appear through the sky, and were truly very happy to be back together after a considerably tedious wait.

"Oh, Flynn," Belle sighed. "I can't put to precise words how lovely it is to be back here again, with you."

"Well, as long as I'm with you, and you're with me, I don't care where we are," said Flynn. "You're what makes it all perfect, Belle. Anywhere, anytime."

"Oh, Flynn, you're too sweet," Belle giggled. "Actually…I already know your two big stories over the past eleven days, but I'd like to know, Flynn. After I had to cope alone this past summer, how was it for you to cope on your own this time?"

"Oh, my. Well, I must say, Belle. Now and then, I struggled hard to manage eleven days without you. Just like you had to go through when I was at the Dieselworks for my maintenance tests, I too was juggling a little between being ready for the next emergency, and thinking of little else but you. I even had little thoughts of visiting you earlier, but even with Angus here with us, I didn't think it prudent to take that chance with the alarm due to sound at any potential time."

"Well, once again, that just shows how dedicated you are to the fire service," said Belle. "And I believe I felt likewise to how you did that time, Flynn. Each and every day my boiler was being checked and overhauled, I was left bored out of my smokebox like you couldn't imagine. It was lonely at times, and not to mention increasingly restless. I think the only thing that kept me held together was anticipating my new ticket…and thinking all about you, Fiery Flynn. Just to be home…back here right with you…"

"To have you home, right back here with me…it's the perfect gift for us both, Belle," said Flynn.

"Yes, Flynn. Oh, yes," Belle whispered.

The two fire engines took a deep breath and sighed most contently. Then a few moments later, Belle looked up and felt a steady tingle in her boiler. Now that she was back home with her new boiler ticket…she now had some special business to settle with her fellow fire engine, who suddenly felt a little rush in his engine too, and just as turned his view to his love, she spoke first.

"Say, honey-pie," Belle said softly with a growing smile. "The others are settled in for the night…and my new ticket is now in motion. Hence…I should very much like us to resume some…very personal business with you. You got enough energy, sweetie? …Because I'm utterly full to the brim with mine…"

Flynn's wheels began to wobble strongly and he fought a coming blush as Belle looked right into his eyes as hers glimmered perfect in the moonlight. Then she began to purr very lowly and seductively as she slowly smooched her lips and blew him a kiss. Just a moment afterwards, Flynn gave a solid grin.

"I've all the energy you and I need tonight…after waiting so long," he whispered huskily. "Shall we go inside, my blue flower? And do what we have to do?"

"Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo, I think we'd better," Belle gleamed lovingly as she started to leave the platform.

Flynn slowly followed Belle as she headed for the turntable, then turned around slowly. This gave Flynn the time he needed to gaze longingly at her big, beautiful body and all her features. Her lovely blue paintwork with thin red stripes and her number, her big brass bell, her two big red hoses, her red and blue wheels, her huge pressure chambers, her shiny silver side rods and her truly beloved, sweet face all captured Flynn's gaze until she had turned right around, then backed inside her berth.

"You coming, honey-pie?" her voice came sweetly from inside. "Yoo-hoo, Flynn."

There was nothing more he needed to hear now. Flynn rolled steadily to the turntable, and as he turned around himself, Belle took her chance to gaze at his big, strong and well-built red form with his ladders, hoses and tyres all blending together just as she thought best. Then Flynn turned round to Belle's berth and followed her right inside as the doors closed behind them. At last, they were nestled inside their shed together in full and perfect privacy, and truly happy and delighted to be huddled in together. Belle watched as Flynn continued to gaze at her lovely face for a few moments more, smiling away and just longing to put their desires to action.

"Oh, Flynn. Are you…staring?" she teased gently.

"Oh…well…please excuse me, Belle," he replied. "You're just so…so…"

"After eleven long days…Do you like what you see?" Belle tittered seductively.

Flynn looked right into her eyes.

"Oh, yes. Not just like. I love it all, Belle," he whispered. "You are truly and undeniably beautiful. So very hot…and perfectly sexy, my perfect babe."

Belle blushed deep red and chortled shyly. "Ooh-hoo-hoo-hoo, thank you, honey-pie. You're so big and strong and well-built too."

Flynn looked away for a moment, and smiled even bigger. He couldn't get over Belle's lovely smile and her lovely face. Having her back in the shed with him again couldn't be a better sight after eleven days of waiting. But it only got better as Belle slowly narrowed her eyes.

"Say, my big, strong Jock…Would you do me a…favor?"

Flynn's heart jiggled as he heard Belle's noticeably seductive tone and she let off a very tiny little wisp of steam to tease him.

"A-any favor for you, Bella…Beauty…and Belle," Flynn whispered.

"Aww…I really love Bella and Beauty," she purred sweetly. "Such perfect pet names. Anyway…it's been eleven whole days…and not one of our building flames have been doused since my last boiler ticket."

"No, I'd say they haven't been…until most imminently," Flynn replied.

"So…" Belle cooed. "Would you like to do the honour of…servicing my boiler under its new ticket?"

Flynn tried not to blush or tremble as he began to quiver. "I…c-certainly, my love…how may I…?"

Belle leaned in toward Flynn's face, bringing her cheek closer to him.

"Here…first, tease me just a little bit. Kiss me along my face, Flynn," she whispered. "I know that's just what you want, isn't it?"

Flynn slowly nodded and swallowed with anticipation. Then he did just as he was invited to do, and leaned in. Then for the first time in eleven days, he brought his lips to Belle's face and the much-anticipated night began. Belle's amazingly warm and soft skin made Flynn's lips tingle delightfully and as he started to gently kiss and play with her cheeks, Belle blushed and purred very happily. Flynn's kisses made her cheeks jump very lightly and tickle most delightfully.

"Mmm…purr…oh, oh! Mm-hm-hm-hm-hm!" Belle giggled and bubbled happily. "Oh…F-Flynn…oh…purr…nice and soft, aren't they?"

"Yes, Belle. Yes…" Flynn whispered. "Your cheeks are so big and beautiful, just like you. They're just perfect, like you too."

"Oh-ho-ho-ho…thank you, honey-pie," Belle glowed as she gave him a big kiss in turn. "Now…I'd like you to go a little further. Whatever you think of, please don't hesitate."

Flynn obliged at once as he brushed his lips along her cheeks and petted her perfectly. Oh, how lovely and soft Belle's face was all over for Fynn to kiss and play with. Flynn was in pure delight as he trailed his lips along Belle's face, right down to her little chin and started kissing her there again and again, to which Belle leaned upwards and cooed most lovingly.

"Ooh…ooh, Flynn…that's so lovely…thank you, Flynn…th-thank you…"

Flynn could only smile and blush as he trailed his lips gently and perfectly wherever he could as he continued to please his beloved fire engine. Then he slowly leaned upward and began brushing his lips right on the tip of her nose. This made Belle jump and start giggling again.

"O-oh…F-Flynn? Wh-what are you doing?" she blushed.

"I love your nose, Belle," Flynn whispered. "It's so perfectly pointed and rubbery, and so cute."

Belle's heart tingled with joy as she closed her eyes and tittered bashfully. Then Flynn suddenly made his move and started to nibble and tug her nose wherever he went.

"Tickle-tickle, Belle," he teased. "Tickle-tickle-tickle."

Belle's nose twitched and wriggled strongly and she suddenly gasped and squealed loudly as Flynn kept going.

"Oh! OHH! Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha! F-F-Flynn! Flynn!" she wailed with laughter. "Tee-hee-hee-hee! St-st-stop! My nose is so twitchy and tickly! Whee-hee-hee-hee-HEE!"

"Aww, Big Belle," Flynn chortled. "I didn't know you were this ticklish. That's so adorable!"

Before Belle could say anything in turn, Flynn proceeded further and tickled her even more persistently, kissing the tip of her nose, then began sucking on it too. Belle snorted and squealed loudly and shook vigorously as she felt her boiler tickling relentlessly and she struggled to keep still. Flynn then leaned down and gave her chin a big kiss, then trailed his lips to the tips of her cheeks and started tugging gently on them again.

"Tickle-tickle-tickle!" he teased happily.

"Ooh! A-Ahh! St-stop that! Tee-hee-hee! Ha-ha-ha-ha-ha-ha!" Belle squealed. "That tickl-l-l-les!"

Flynn didn't stop as he knew Belle was only saying that reflexively and that she was loving every second of his gifted nurtures. Then he took it to the next level and started licking Belle's cheek again and again. This made Belle gasp very loudly and give another big, shuddering moan.

"OHH! Fly-y-y-ynn…" she moaned strongly. "That's sooo lovely and tickly! OOH…! So-SOO good!"

Flynn's heart just shone in his engine as he continued to please Belle's dreams and diffuse any and all desires she had to hold back all this time, and soon enough, Flynn's nurtures worked their magic as Belle could feel her steep creeping and trickling through her pipes and into her cylinders. It made Belle feel warm inside and it tickled her cylinders as her steam ports began to tingle too."

"Oh-oh-oh-ohh…F-Flynn…! Flynn!" she whimpered. "You-you…you're gonna make me b-b-burst…!"

"Aww, you're so sweet, Big Belle," Flynn teased perfectly. "Don't hold anything in, Belle. Let it out just as it should…"

And with just a few more kisses, nibbles and a very large kiss right on her cheek, Belle couldn't hold back and she suddenly let off a long hiss of steam, cooing and giggling all the way.

"Whoo-hoo! Whee-hee!" she squealed happily as her steam drifted through the shed. "So well done, Firey Flynn!"

Flynn could only smile and bask proudly and most happily as he watched Belle's steam drift around her for a few moments before it all faded away. Belle took a few deep breaths as the red ebbed away from her face, then she looked right at Flynn and smiled from buffer to buffer.

"Well, my perfect babe…did you like that?" Flynn asked politely.

"Oh…ohh…my goodness!" Belle gasped. "Not for eleven days, or maybe more have I felt such a perfect rush!"

"Well, that's what I'm always here for, Belle," Flynn smiled.

"Wow…that was so lovely," Belle tittered. "And I must say, you seem to truly love tickling me, Flynn."

Flynn smiled even bigger and kissed her nose.

"Because I love hearing you giggle and laugh, Belle. You have such a sweet, titillating, adorable laugh. Truly, it's the best music I could ever hear. And believe me, I have seriously missed it."

Belle blushed and cooed as she pressed her cheeks to his.

"Ooh…you're so very romantic and sweet, Flynn. My perfect Fiery Flynn. And you've certainly given me a most stirring welcome home tonight. As such…I think it's only appropriate that I give you lots and lots of kisses in return, from your Beautiful Big Belle. Are you…interested?"

Flynn's expression said it all. He fought hard not to shake and quiver with excitement and Belle just leaned in and started her part.

"Come here, honey-pie," she whispered with a happy purr.

Flynn watched with a pounding heart as Belle puckered her big, luscious lips and started kissing him along his face, smooching noisily and wetly wherever she kissed, and cooing like a cheerful dove all the way. Flynn shuddered and groaned blissfully as he felt it all coming back after eleven long days. Belle's lips were so warm and soft and absolutely perfect as her kisses tingled and tickled him wherever she went, softly whispering and teasing him however she pleased.

"Mmm…ah. Mmm…ah. There, Flynn. Isn't that lovely? I love you. Mmm…ah. Mmm…ah," she whispered and kissed alluringly.

"Ohh, Belle…Big Belle…" Flynn gasped passionately. "How many times have I said how much I love you?"

"All the time, honey," Belle swooned sexily. "And I don't want you ever to stop saying it…because I haven't even started my spells yet."

Flynn's heart jumped again as Belle kissed up and up his cheeks, then pressed her lips right to his nose and kissed him right there as strongly as she could. Flynn shut his eyes tight and groaned as his nose turned up to Belle's smooching lips until she finally let go with a delighted chirp.

"Gosh, Belle…you never cease to stir my engine. That's just the ticket…"

"Ooh, it is, Flynn…but just wait for what comes next," Belle whispered. "Here I come…it's just the ticket…"

Belle then closed her eyes and opened her mouth, reaching her tongue out for Flynn's face. Flynn's heart flipped vigorously and before he could say anything else, Belle rested her tongue to his cheek and licked slowly and teasingly up his face. Flynn tensed up vigorously and groaned again.

"Uhh…whoa…B-Belle…!"

"Ahh…aahhh…" she sighed smoothly. "There, honey-pie. You like Big Belle's wet and slippery tongue, don't you?"

All that came from Flynn was another shudder and groan of passion as the spells went on. Belle's tongue licked slowly and gently at first, then she softly quickened the pace just a little bit as she started lapping Flynn's cheek more steadily, which in turn made him breathe heavier and heavier. Then Belle leaned closer and closed her lips around Flynn's cheek and started to tug on it, making loud sucking noises and cooing endlessly against his cheek. The sensation of pleasure and unfathomable stirrings in Flynn's engine were almost too much for him as he gasped sharply and heaved out a few words.

"Ohh…oh, yeah…ohh! Belle…Belle! Oh, by Sodor, you're perfect…!"

Belle just gave a muffled giggle as she sucked and tugged on his cheek for a few minutes more, all while Flynn's face turned almost as red as his paintwork, until Belle finally let go and gave him one more little flourish of fast kisses all along his face, ending with a big, big kiss right on his chin. Then Belle withdrew and let Flynn catch his breath for a few moments.

"Wow…w-wow…" Flynn panted. "I guess this is what happens…when eleven days withhold you for just one boiler ticket…"

"Mmm. Yes, Flynn, I suppose it is," Belle whispered as she rubbed her nose to his and cuddled him softly.

"That was fun, Belle," Flynn murmured as he cuddled her too. "You really know just how to get to my core in all the best ways."

"Thank you, Flynn, and it's my pleasure," Belle chimed. "But don't wind down just yet. Because I'm actually thinking."

"About what, dear?" Flynn asked.

"Well…you know, Flynn…" Belle said playfully. "…Sometimes at night, odd as it may sound…I wonder if we should be wary of what some people call…bedbugs."

"Oh, don't be silly, Belle," Flynn replied as she shook his head playfully. "That's just a saying among many folks."

"But I'm serious, Flynn. Especially between you and me," Belle went on, more cleverly. "See…Some bedbugs are very sneaky. They sneak up on you and…"

Flynn suddenly looked up, and before he knew it, Belle gave a hefty toot on her whistle, then buffered up and started to nibble and tug on his cheeks, tickling him relentlessly. Flynn roared with laughter and writhed to Belle's beloved spells as she suddenly had full control of the banter yet again.

"Now I'M the bedbug!" Belle giggled delightfully as she continued to nibble and tease Flynn's face wherever she went.

Flynn was at full mercy of his beloved fire engine's dominant lead, but he wouldn't have wanted it any other way than this as Belle continued to tickle and tease him, which in turn kept him shaking and guffawing strongly for a few minutes more until she withdrew and let him catch his breath again. Then as soon as he was ready, Flynn shot a direct look and smile into Belle's eyes, making her gasp eagerly.

"F-Flynn? What are you…?" she began.

"Here comes ANOTHER bedbug!" Flynn growled playfully.

Then he proceeded to lean just a little to the left and start tugging and sucking Belle's cheek again, which made her squawk and squeal with sheer delight.

"O-ohh-ho-ho-ho! Flynn!" she clucked and giggled endlessly. "Wh-wh-what are you d-d-do-hoo-hoo-hoo-ing?"

"Joining right in with you, Big Belle," he eyed seductively. "Above all else right now…I'd love us both to bring each other to the peak. What do you say?"

"Ohh, I'd love that too, Flynn," Belle smiled most delightfully. "Come get me, Flynn…so I can come get you…and let's reach the peak together."

"I love you, Big Belle," Flynn smiled joyfully.

"I love you too, Fiery Flynn," Belle smiled right back. "Here we go."

Then Belle leaned just a little to the left, as did Flynn. Then they came right toward each other, and right there on the spot, they started kissing, nibbling and sucking each other's cheek simultaneously, both feeling a very strong spark rush through them both as they gasped and groaned passionately together.

"Uhh…uhh! Ohh, Fly-y-ynn! Oh, my goodness! Ohh, that's SOO good! Yes…oh, YES! I love you! I love you!" Belle panted hard.

"Ohh…Ohh! B-B-Belle! Belle! Wow! You're PERFECT! I love you! I LOVE you!" Flynn exclaimed just as strongly.

The two fire engines continued their ecstasy-driven nurtures going on and on for almost twenty minutes, continuously kissing, sucking and nibling each other's cheeks, gradually making the rising sense of warmth in both their engines grow stronger and stronger.

Then Belle suddenly leaned to the center again and locked her lips right to Flynn's, who popped his eyes, then rolled them back into his head as she started French-kissing him as deeply as she could, slipping and maneuvering her tongue every which way with his and pulling his lips right to hers. Flynn groaned loudly right with Belle and followed suit as he started tugging her lips just the same, with his tongue dancing in a synchronized pattern. With each moment that passed, both fire engines were losing their minds into the everlasting euphoria and ever-surging pleasure coursing through them both.

After about five minutes, both their lips popped apart and they took in deep breaths together, having both turned quite red in the faces. Then Belle saw Flynn looking right into the very centre glimmer in her eyes, then raised his eyebrows to her. Belle suddenly got a very strong feeling he was going to do something very big for her…and so he did. With his eye right on her, Flynn leaned in again and started to tug on her cheek ever-so softly, then let go every few moments, making her cheeks jiggle.

"Oh…oh…Flynn…what are you…?" Belle giggled softly.

"Trust me…you're going to well and truly LOVE this," Flynn murmured. "And so will I."

With no further word, Flynn opened his mouth, came forth and started licking Belle's cheek again, but this time, he did so even more steadily and persistently than he did before. This drove Belle to near euphoria as she leaned upwards and moaned very loudly.

"Ohh…oh, yes…yes…yes! Flynn! Flynn! Ohh!" she moaned strongly.

Flynn didn't stop for one moment as his tongue kept trailing on Belle's cheeks, followed by a few kisses, which kept sending lovely tickles through Belle's skin and right into her boiler as she felt a slew of tickling spells wriggling through her. Slowly but surely, she began t louder and more passionately, and she started feeling warmer and warmer inside as she began to approach the peak. Then as Flynn continued to kiss, lick, nibble and play with her ever-blushing cheeks, Belle suddenly began to feel something creeping through her. She felt her steam trickling through her pipes and into her cylinders and steam ports, waiting to be let off any moment, but then she felt something more. Something that had only occurred once before after Flynn returned from the Dieselworks that past summer. As the feeling built and bult, Belle began to shudder and whimper deeply as she felt little tingly sensations rising up to her hoses, making them turn left and right ever-so slightly.

"Oh-oh-oh-oh…oh, my…oh-oh, my!" she whimpered and trembled angelically. "Ohh...F-F-Flynn! Flynn…! Ohh, my-my hoses are gonna-gonna squirt…! I-I-I'm gonna…Oh, oh! It's coming, it's c-c-coming…!"

Flynn's heart flipped most excitedly and he knew just what to do.

"Shh…shhh…oh, Big Belle," he whispered and teased sweetly. "I love you so much, Belle. Let it out nice and gently, my perfect babe. I love you."

And he very softly gave her one more series of quick and perfect kisses, to which Belle shut her eyes tightly and tried with every ounce of steam she had to hold it back, but as with every situation with any engine couple, the absolute peak was always most inevitable. Belle's hoses tingled and tickled so warmly and so delightfully until suddenly, they both began to dribble a little water and spray gently.

"Ooh…hooh…Flynn…" Belle whispered most silkily, then sighed and purred with utter arousal. "Hah…ahhh…oh…purr…p-purr…"

As Belle's hoses continued to dribble and spray very gently, the water flowed along her boiler and smokebox and ran straight down to her running plate and dripped gently at her buffers. This made Belle go very still and she held a big, big smile as she saw this happen. Flynn froze right where he was too and just stared. They both had to admit this was probably the steamiest session they had ever partaken in yet. They had come close before, but this was certainly a new peak.

"Ohh…oh, my goodness…by my buffers and hoses, Firey Flynn," Belle gleamed most proudly and happily. "You know just how to make us both shine to the core."

"Hm-hm-hm! You're certainly shiny now, Belle," Flynn grinned most gleefully. "Absolutely perfect…just like your new ticket."

Belle's eyes twinkled happily, then she took a deep breath and sighed and cooed blissfully as her cylinders let off all her steam in a steady hiss and blanketed herself and Flynn in a warm and steamy embrace. Flynn sighed most comfortably as the warmth settled all around him and Belle as they gazed lovingly to each other's faces, then gently leaned on once more and kissed to each other's lips, moaning softly as they pulled and nibbled each other's lips for a few minutes more, until Belle's steam faded away.

At last, their big evening together again was now fulfilled. Belle and Flynn could now feel their boilers tingling with their coming afterglow and filling them both with such a lovely, warm feeling inside. Slowly and surely, Belle closed her eyes and took a deep and happy sigh. In turn, Flynn leaned in and pressed his face right to Belle's, feeling her warm, soft and squishy cheeks press in gently like pillows as he cuddled her close.

"Oh-ho-ho-ho-ho…Mmm…oh, Flynn…" Belle giggled and hummed. "You always know just how to make my boiler and my hoses so happy…"

"Only because you deserve it more than anyone else, Belle," Flynn whispered. "Tonight couldn't have been better, all thanks to you."

"Likewise to you, Flynn," Belle gleamed sweetly and gave him a kiss on his cheek. "My life is always full and complete, all thanks to you."

"For now and for always, my perfect babe," Flynn whispered with a kiss to her cheek.

Belle tittered gently, then opened her mouth and yawned steadily as she leaned upwards in a sleepy stretch.

"Ohh. Now…ooh…time for bed, Flynn," she drowsed sleepily. "Oh, it's so lovely to be back here, so I can fall asleep right with you, my big, strong fire engine."

"Ohh, it's even better for me, my love," Flynn grinned. "After eleven whole days, I can finally fall asleep on your lovely, soft and warm face again, and feel that you're right here with me."

"Ooh, yes," Belle giggled. "I know just how much you love to cuddle up to my big, puffy and squishy cheeks. He-he-he!"

Flynn nodded surely and watched Belle stir a little and get comfortable as she began to nod off.

"Ooh…sweet dreams, Flynn, my beloved honey-pie," Belle yawned once more as she closed her eyes and fell fast asleep.

"Sweet dreams, Belle, and welcome home, my perfect babe," Flynn whispered.

As Belle fell into a deep and most blissful sleep, Flynn took a deep breath and sighed. With Belle back in the business again, everything was as it should be again. Sodor's two finest fire engines in the business were together again and always ready for action. Indeed, there couldn't have been a better way for their duty together to resume than dousing each other's flames as they had done this very evening.

Flynn's eyes steadily grew heavy and he began to nod off as well. Then just before his eyes could close and let him fall deep into his dreams…he suddenly heard it, went still, and looked up.

Deep in her dreams and fast asleep, Big Belle was snoring deeply and steadily, which made Flynn smile with delight. He had not heard this truly lovely sound since he and Belle had doused each other's flames that previous summer. Hearing it again brought such a delightful tickle to his heart as Belle snored with her nose shaking most adorably, then she fluttered her lips like a horse. As she snored again, Flynn couldn't help himself as he leaned in and kissed Belle on her cheek just as she puffed them up and whistled lowly, followed by her kissing him in her sleep before snoring again. Flynn happily leaned right into her whistling lips and kissed them happily, to which he felt her lips take hold of his and kiss him back before they let go again.

Flynn took one look at his sleeping love and whispered very gently.

"I love listening to you snore. Sweet dreams, Big Belle, and have a lovely snooze. I love you, so very much."

As Flynn's eyes shut and he huddled down to sleep, cuddling to the love of his life, Belle snored again and mumbled softly.

"Zzz…oh, I love you too, Flynn. Zzz…so very, very much. Zzz…sweet dreams, honey-pie…Zzz…"

And so both fire engines slept deeply and very happily together, now firmly together again with Belle's brand new boiler ticket now intact for the next eight to ten years. Perfect for her and Flynn to be ready for the next fire to fight, and to keep each other's flames doused whenever they could and would always please to do.

---

Finally more Belle and Flynn action, even if we're well past Bonfire Night at this point, but that can't be helped. We got two "new" characters here, except they're not actually new; Angus the Vintage Fire Engine featured in a few magazine stories, while his portrayal is based on his appearances in EpicLafiteau's videos. As for Rowland, he is based on the Ballast Spreader from the first illustration of "Small Railway Engines", and his artistic personality is based on the ballast spreaders portrayal in Enterprisingengine93's videos (where he is named Doc), because it makes him stand out and because, as an art student myself, it's fun to jab at how ridiculous things like Rowland's obsession with ballast as an artform can come across as. Now, the next story is focusing on another holiday that we've already missed; Remembrance Day, and there will be a lot of seeds planted for Diesel's eventual redemption. Until then, tell us what you thought of this story, and as always, stay safe.