Chapter 117: Bad Day at Castle Loch

Donald and Douglas enjoy working on The Island of Sodor, but they do miss their home of Scotland. One of their favorite places to visit is Callan Castle. An old castle owned by a Scottish lord, the castle had remained abandoned and ruined for years. Many claim that it was haunted, but one thing that was for sure was that its mysterious past made it a popular tourist attraction.

One day, Sir Topham Hatt came to see them while they were shunting at the docks.

"Lord Callan has announced plans to restore his castle and reopen it to the public. Donald and Douglas, I need you to take some supplies up there this evening. But be careful, the area is prone to landslides."

"Aye, sir."

Once Sir Topham Hatt had left, Bill and Ben drove up with trains of China Clay. They had heard about the rumors concerning the old castle, and saw a chance for mischief.

"You're not going up to Castle Loch, are you?" Quizzed Bill.

"Aye, and what if we are?" Douglas snorted.

"You mean you haven't hear about the monster?"

"What monster?"

"They say that the loch is home to a ferocious beast that will hunt down any one who dares to trespass on the castle property. We heard it last night, didn't we Bill?"

"That's right, Ben. Most terrifying thing I ever did hear."

Donald and Douglas laughed.

"Oh, you wee little engine drivers and your tall tales. You're thinking of the Loch Ness Monster back home in Scotland. And besides that, monsters don't exist."

"Alright, but don't say we didn't warn you."

"Uh huh, thanks."

Later that day, Donald and Douglas were driving the train up to Castle Loch. They were enjoying the trip, but couldn't wait to reach the castle, lying in Misty Valley.

"Look Douglas, there it is."

"Won't be long now."

But trouble lay ahead.

"Douggie, breaks! Trees on the line!"

"Oh no!"

The two managed to break just in time.

"Quick, Douggie, we need to back up."

But before they could, the breakvan was hit by a landslide, toppling it. The guard managed to get out in time, but the train was stuck.

"Great Scot, we're stuck!"

"Call for help!"

Sir Topham Hatt was getting his present from Lord Callan fitted when he received the telephone call."

"I'll send for help as soon as I can."

The hours rolled by, and still no sign of help. Donald and Douglas huddled in their engine's cabs to stay warm as the fog rolled in.

"I h-h-hope help arrives soon."

"M-me too."

Just then, the two spotted something strange moving in the mist. It was long and tall. Donald became spooked.

"What's that?"

"Could it be the monster, Douggie."

"I think it is."

"I'm not a monster. I'm the rescue team."

Donald and Douglas breathed a sigh of relief. It was just Harvey with the breakdown train.

"Oh Harvey, are we ever glad to see you."

"Don't worry, you two. We'll have you three in no time."

It took all night, but by daybreak the lines were clear and Donald and Douglas continued on their way.

Lord Callan and his men were waiting to unload the trucks. It took a long time, but soon enough the castle was ready for its grand opening.

Donald and Douglas were invited as the guests of honor.

"A splendid pair you have here, Sir Topham," said Lord Callan.

"And Really Useful, too."

Donald and Douglas just beamed.