Every wise engine knows that trucks can be troublesome and delight in mischief, thus causing great trouble if they're not kept in line. But in and amongst all the trucks, box-vans, tankers, flatbeds and even brakevans, ballast trucks are notoriously the worst of them all. They in particular are nearly always noisy, rowdy and very unforgiving. The engines on Duck's Branch Line were wise to their tricks and were always ready to keep them under control. The ballast trucks, of course, knew this to be true, but far more so did they delight in taking advantage of anyone who wasn't used to them. In hindsight, someone ought to have warned Stanley and the Spiteful Brakevan when they collected their load today, though with Donald and Douglas' most challenging phase at the given point in time, especially with condolences over Dilly's passing, such warnings had fallen beneath the radar, and this would soon play yet another pivotal part in Donald and Douglas' most adversarial relationship with this brakevan.

Once again, Stanley was running steadily along the line, with the brakevan at the back of his train of ten fully loaded ballast trucks, on their way to Great Waterton again. The van was still thinking about the attempt he made to Donald to offer his condolences for Dilly, though Donald had no time to reflect or answer before he had to set off with his passengers, thus leaving the van in suspense.

"I don't know, Stanley," he said aloud. "I just don't know."

"Not know what?" Stanley asked as he looked back.

"What's to become of me, regarding those two?" asked the van. "I was almost broken to pieces again only yesterday, Dilly is gone as of only yesterday, Donald and Douglas are both in mourning, and also surely curdling with fury over what I've done to them. I just feel like such a pig and disgrace for what I've caused for them both. If only there was a clearer way forward for all of us…just what am I to do?"

Stanley could sense the van's sincerity as clear as the day as he replied.

"Well, Mr. Van. I know this is a very layered, complicated issue between the three of you. But even then, you shouldn't have to hurry too much. Even if Donald and Douglas do find it in them to start over with you again, it's not all going to change overnight. These things take time, and the changes made, if any, are always gradual. What really matters is if everyone dedicates to those gradual transitions. You need to commit to leaving behind who you used to be, and the engines, for their part, have to open their minds and give you your chance as well. Even though I can't speak for every engine, I myself know you are dedicated to a better way forward, if it can be helped in any way."

That was enough for the van to draw a small smile. He found himself really liking Stanley by now, and so they all carried on down the line.

But within Stanley's train, trouble was quietly starting to brew, for the ballast trucks had been thinking to themselves and each other as to have some fun. They knew Stanley wasn't the most frequent engine on the Little Western, and so he wasn't quite prepared at all to manage with any trouble these trucks could give. Most of the trucks were in well-working order, but neither Stanley nor the van noticed that the second truck's coupling was old and worn out. The trucks, of course, knew all about this since the start, and so they very lowly whispered amongst themselves to piece together a plan.

"Oi, mates. Stanley doesn't recognize us too well," whispered a truck. "He barely ever works with any of us."

"That's right…therefore he doesn't have the exact means to keep us from doing anything," whispered another one.

"Perfect for us to finally have some proper fun," snickered the third.

"It's not easy to pay out the other Little Westerns for bumping us everywhere," said the fourth. "What say we play it out on Stanley instead?"

"Ooh, I like that," said the fifth. "Didn't you see the second of us with his old, worn out coupling?"

"Lads, you've got it," the second truck said lowly as he whispered something to them. "We'll do it on Gordon's Hill."

"That's right," the others whispered lowly. "As soon as he's almost at the top. Shhh…"

And so the trucks fell quiet and continued to behave…all so they could catch Stanley and even the van quite off guard as soon as the chance came…

Eventually, Stanley reached Gordon's Hill. With his fire now burning strong, he picked up the pace and started to climb. The trucks saw they were going up the hill, and they had it all worked out. As Stanley went higher up, none of the trucks held back, thus Stanley was able to keep going without too much difficulty…but it was all part of this very troublesome and sneaky plan.

"Not yet…almost…" the trucks whispered. "Just a few more puffs…"

Stanley climbed up and up, until he was almost to the top. Then just as he himself reached the top…it happened.

"One…two…three…NOW!"

In that very same instant, the trucks suddenly jerked backwards at the second trucks' old coupling. It immediately snapped off. Then those bad ballast trucks sent the brakevan and nine of themselves to slip off and start hurtling back down the hill, leaving Stanley and the one remaining truck at the vey top and in great shock and surprise.

"What?! Whoa! Help!" the van cried out. "Someone help!"

"Follow the leader! On, on, ON!" the trucks yelled. "Chase him! Bump him! Throw him off the rails!"

The Brakevan was away with the trucks screaming and yelling after him. Stanley looked back and panicked, not knowing what to do. Then from just around the bend down the hill, there came a familiar whistle.

"Oh, no!" Stanley cried. "Mr. Van! Stop them! Sto-o-o-op!"

The van heard Stanley's shouts and knew it was now or never. As they reached halfway down the hill, the van slipped on his brakes as best he could. The trucks felt the momentum slow a little, but they pushed on just as strongly. The van strained hard and locked his brakes as tightly as he could for the trucks. Then he suddenly looked and gasped. To his horror, there was Douglas heading toward the hill on the same line with Toad his own ballast trucks! The very one who had threatened to smash the van down again if anything else were to happen between him or Donald.

"Oh, no! It's him!" the vain wailed. "Look out!"

Just as Emily once did when she saw that snowball racing toward her eight winters ago, Douglas looked and gasped just the same. There was the Spiteful Brakevan and nine fully loaded ballast trucks, now cascading top speed down the line, and directly toward him! All alarms and spells of dread went off like a blast in Douglas' smokebox as he fell into utter panic and pandemonium.

"Oh, no! Oh, no! Oh, nooo!" he howled.

The van cried out in horror as he cascaded down the hill. In a wave of great panic, Douglas stopped and quickly tried to reverse, but even as he did so, his trucks bumped him forward most abominably, causing some of them, and Toad to jolt off course and derail. Douglas couldn't get away and was now bound on a collision course with the van!

"Who-o-o-oa!"

The van howled as he raced straight down toward the No. 10 Engine. Then in that very moment, Douglas only had one thing to shout out now.

"DO SOMETHING!" he yelled instinctively. "ANYTHING! HURRY UP!"

The van could see the urgency and vitality of this very given time, and so he locked his brakes on even harder, trying to stop the trucks as hard as ever he could, not wanting to harm Douglas anymore than he already had. Douglas shut his eyes and cried out, bracing for what would come next. With tremendous effort, the van shut his eyes so tight they hurt his head. His brakes shrieked wildly against the rails, and then, with one more big effort, the van managed to stop the runaway trucks just in time to avoid a collision, just barely touching Douglas' buffers. Douglas then opened his eyes and saw the van standing right there before him. The trucks were now secure, and everyone was alright. At that moment, Stanley then came reversing back down the hill and looked back.

"There it is," said his driver. "Those buggers snapped the old coupling right off."

"Douglas! My Golly, are you alright?" Stanley called back.

"Aye, Stanley. I…I am," Douglas panted. "Great Scott! I just came around the bend when I heard most impudent screaming from up the hill…and then I saw…you…"

The van looked up at once as he saw Douglas looking right at him. In the next moment, the van's wheels began to quake most uncontrollably beneath him. He had no inkling he would be seeing Douglas again so soon, and he felt for sure Douglas would be all-too ready to charge forward and crunch him down to bits again, just as he had warned him of only the day before. For a few moments, the van sat and waited for it to happen…but it didn't. As the van looked again, it seemed as though Douglas were waiting for him to speak first. After what felt like a long time, he did.

"D…Douglas…" the van said at last. "I…I didn't except we'd be crossing paths again as soon as this…and especially not in this way."

"…So it would seem," said Douglas. "That was almost a hair too close. WHAT, may I ask is the meaning of all this? Only yesterday were the three of us at Brendam Docks, when your tongue spewed its poison on us once more…after thirty years since. What, may I ask, are you doing here and now, right on my line?"

The van looked back toward Stanley. Then the words came to him as he looked forward again.

"You know, Douglas…I'm glad you asked just that," said the van. "I've been wondering if and when I'd be seeing you or Donald again…and now that everything is quiet again…I think now is the time that I came out fully with you…with what I've been feeling for some time now."

Douglas raised his eyebrow unimpressively at first.

"What could YOU possibly have to say to me, or my brother now, other than whatever spiteful words, remarks and snide comments you've ever had for us for every single time we've ever crossed paths?"

"Words of spite, pain and ridicule? Now? None at all," said the van. Then he paused impressively and went on. "And not ever again. Never again, I promise you…because right now I have a few other words I think you need to hear."

"Is that right?" Douglas sniffed.

"Yes, Douglas. That is right," Stanley put in. "Before you jump to any conclusions, for your sake, and Donald's too…hear the van out."

Douglas was surprised to see Stanley speaking up for the van and really couldn't see why right now, but he had to agree.

"Well, then," he said solidly. "What are the words? Do speak."

The brakevan took a deep breath, then began.

"I know just how you feel about me, Douglas, and I cannot fault you feeling just so. I know too that you surely never wanted to see me again for as long as you live, as might your brother may feel…but given what has transpired between us over only two days, and given what else has happened…I now have to come forth. First of all, everything that happened between us at the Docks only yesterday…it's not left me for one moment."

"Nae has it left me, or Donald," Douglas replied.

"We all know what happened and what had been said from all thee of us," said the van. "And through it all, I am shameless to say…you were right, Douglas. Everything you said about how I acted spitefully toward you and your brother, both yesterday and all those years ago…you were impeccably right."

Douglas nodded slowly. He and Donald knew he was right about everything, and now here was the van acknowledging just the same.

"Now, as for what has come to follow since," the van went on. "I've been keeping with Stanley since our previous encounter…and it's given me the time to reflect on some things…and learn a few things for myself."

"And what may that be?" Douglas asked.

The van collected his thoughts for a moment. Then he told Douglas everything he had confessed to Stanley the day before at Great Waterton, about his rebuild on the Mainland, and how he made whatever efforts he could to be a better van, yet everything that had happened before with him and the twins never left him. Douglas listened to everything with open ears and found himself enthralled and absorbed.

"Is that so?" he observed. "Then what?"

"Then…that's when I heard it," said the van. "I was confused at first…when the stationmaster said Dilly was gone."

Douglas' heart jumped. He had heard the tragic news too?

"You…you heard it yourself?" he said softly.

"Yes. I…never knew or heard anything about her prior…then Stanley told me everything…about Donald's Duck, so she's called. He told me all about how she was such a dear and loving pet…and how everything went downhill until she died only yesterday. If I had only known about that a little earlier…then perhaps I'd have thought differently about the two of you…and perhaps our plight at Brendam never would have happened. I…I felt so very bad to hear it myself. It was almost as if I'd been smashed down all over again…just as it was thirty years ago."

Douglas felt his wheels quaking beneath as he thought back to seeing Dilly die right there on Donald's running plate. Now he knew the van had heard it all himself.

"Therefore, for all of this and more, Douglas…" the van said. "I impeccably owe you and your brother an apology. For all I have caused to both of you thirty years back, when both your fates were still in question…and then of course, for what happened only yesterday…I'm sorry. I am sorry. I even told your brother just that this morning…though he had to leave with his passengers immediately afterwards. I'm sorry that you both have to carry this burden. I'm sorry for everything…"

Douglas could scarcely believe what he was hearing, and how he was hearing it. The van's sincerity was utterly plain to be seen, and Douglas felt as though a mass of overbearing weight was lifting right off from his boiler.

"Whoa…" he said lowly.

"And lastly, with what almost happened right here just now…when those trucks jerked away and snapped the coupling off Stanley's second truck, here I was cascading down toward you. I have to come out and admit…I could have used this slip-up as an opportunity to lay revenge and let myself and the trucks crash into you, not caring whatever would have happened to me afterwards. But I knew that in doing just that, I would truly be wasting my second chance at life over a petty grudge…exactly as you had said only yesterday."

Douglas indeed remembered the very words he had let.

"After all that Stanley had told me, and given my previous progress on the Mainland, I didn't wish to cause you or Donald any more harm than I have. Here and now, Douglas…for whatever it can be worth…I'm truly sorry for everything I've ever done to you both. I was young, stupid and immature all those years ago…but now, I am humbled and most inclined to inform you that I have seen the error of my ways. My gross offenses, my hideous transgressions…and I only wish now, for myself, for you and your brother…if we could by any means…make a fresh start all over again…and make way for new beginnings. I'm prepared to embrace whatever transition is needed, but only all three of us can bring it forth together. Will you have me?"

Then the van fell silent. He had spoken everything he needed to, and was now awaiting what would come next. Douglas held his voice and let this sink in for a few moments. Never did he think he would hear anything of this nature from the very figure whom he and Donald had considered their greatest enemy for such an unbelievably long time…but here and now, just as Diesel had managed to do through Beatrice's dedicated efforts and input, it was clear to Douglas that this Van had turned over his leaf at long last. After what felt like another long time, Douglas looked at the van and slowly nodded.

"Aye, mate," he said at last. "I should like that immensely. What you did for me here and now was most valiant. Had it only been one more moment off, then…I…I don't even want to think about it. I am truly humbled and grateful to have heard everything just now. And I…I'm sorry myself, mate…for threatening to break you up again. As of today…our previous age is done. I believe it's time for a new beginning. For you, for me, and for Donnie."

To Douglas' words, the van slowly smiled. After so long a wave of time, both he and Douglas had come out the other side. Their grudge was at long last over, miraculous and it would probably seem to some. All Stanley could do was take a deep breath and smile. He could sense, as did Douglas and the van, that they would see better days in the time ahead.

"Well, now," Stanley's driver spoke up. "This is all most telling indeed. Right now, though, we must get back on track and clear up this mess."

Then he ran off to find the nearest telephone booth to send for help.

At this point, Donald had just finished his passenger run to Tidmouth and had recently returned to Arlesburgh West with Isabel and Dulcie. All morning and up to now, his heart continued to ache and beat hard in his boiler as he still felt the departure of Dilly as deeply as the day before. He had no clear indication as to when he would come out the other side. On the other hand, he also found himself thinking as to whether that van was being sincere earlier in the day. Had he had more time to be with the van, perhaps he would have had a clearer judgment, but for now it would have to wait.

As Donald pondered these thoughts, he slowly looked around the Ballast Chute, watching Rex, Mike and Bert bustle about. Then he suddenly looked again and noticed a new small yellow engine undergoing performance tests. It was of course Jock, but Donald didn't know this yet. After a moment, Jock looked and perked up.

"Oh! Hello again, Douglas," he called out.

Donald was confused. "Wha…excuse me, young fellow? I'm nae Douglas. I'm Donald."

Now Jock was confused. "Wha…but you…you look just like…"

"Like him? Of course we do. We're twin brothers," said Donald. "Except I'm No. 9. Douggie is No. 10. Plus our nameplates, see? Who are you, by the way? I didnae see anyone like you this morning."

"Hello again, Donald," said the Small Controller. "I don't suppose you saw him earlier. This is my newest engine. He's been undergoing performance tests throughout today and it's all been going quite nicely. I hadn't decided on a name before today, but now he has one. Jock."

This made Donald perk up as he remembered. "Jock? As in the Highland Jocks back in Scotland?"

"Why, yes," said the Small Controller. "In fact, it was Douglas who suggested he be named just that. He came by this morning and suggested that very name."

"Ohh. It was Douggie, was it?" said Donald. "Well, well. That's not too big a surprise, actually, considering he and I were talking about the Highland Jocks only yesterday…"

"I see," said the Small Controller.

Just then, the stationmaster came out of his office and ran over to Donald quite urgently.

"Donald! There you are! Just in time!" he said hurriedly. "Find Judy and Jerome and bring them to Gordon's Hill immediately!"

"Why? What's happened?" Donald asked.

"Douglas' trucks have been derailed, and so had Toad. Stanley's trucks had broken loose and raced back down the hill."

"Ohh! Aye, sir! I'm on my way!"

And Donald raced off at once to find the Breakdown Train.

At Knapford Station, the Fat Controller was sitting in his office, his mind very, very occupied. Throughout most of the day, he had been grappling with a great deal, on account of Dilly's death and what had happened between Donald, Douglas and the Brakevan at Brendam Docks. What had transpired there was indeed very serious and had spawned a great deal of old and new wounds for Donald and Douglas, to which they lost control and almost repeated what had happened to that van way back when. With the wound of Dilly's passing still very fresh for Donald, the Fat Controller knew he'd have to address the serious nature of what happened before only when the time was more opportune. Then suddenly at that very moment, the phone rang. When the Fat Controller answered, it was Stanley's driver.

"Hello? …Oh! Goodness, really?" said the Fat Controller. "At Gordon's Hill? …Well, then. I'd best head over myself. Goodbye."

Then the Fat Controller hung up and hurried off to find Winston.

Donald meanwhile had found Judy and Jerome and was now hurrying to Gordon's Hill, hoping Douglas wasn't hurt. After a quick rush along the line, Sure enough, Donald came around the bend and saw it for himself. Stanley was just ahead in front of Douglas with his own trucks. At the bottom of the hill, Toad and some of Douglas' trucks had come off the line, Douglas was just ahead, and right at his buffers…was the brakevan. Seeing this, Donald got a very small sense that perhaps the van had tried yet another wretched stunt upon Douglas, and that this would be the end of the line for the van. Donald came right up alongside Douglas, his eyes fixated right on the brakevan.

"Donnie. There you are," said Douglas. "So good you came."

"What's this? What's happened here, brother?" Donald asked. "What is the meaning of-"

Scarcely before his sentence was complete, the Fat Controller came driving around the bend in Winston. He pulled up alongside Donald, then got out of Winston and surveyed the scene. Both twins and the van all held their breath, waiting for what he would say.

"Well, I say," said the Fat Controller. "What do we have here? Donald, Douglas, and this brakevan, altogether at Gordon's Hill?"

All three whose names were spoken didn't know what to say. Then Stanley spoke up and explained to the Fat Controller how the trucks had broken away from him, to which the van braked as hard as ever he could to stop himself and the trucks from crashing into Douglas after his trucks had derailed.

"Well…" the Fat Controller then said. "I might have known it would be Douglas…whom this very van would have to save, as it were."

"Indeed it is, sir," Douglas said, finding his voice at last. "But this time, there was no need to beat any van, so to speak…and there never will a need again. In fact, there's much more to tell you, sir…and you as well, Donald."

"What's that, Douggie?" Donald asked.

"Donnie…it's over at last," his brother said.

Donald and the Fat Controller suddenly went still.

"What do you mean?" they asked together.

"Sir…and Donald," said Douglas. "After everything quieted down her again…the van and I have been talking and…well…hear for yourself."

"What? Just what are you coming at, Douggie?" Donald asked. "Surely you don't mean…?"

"Go ahead, mate," Douglas said to the van.

Donald looked with astonishment toward the van. After a moment, the van found his voice and told Donald exactly what the trucks did, and what he did in turn to save Douglas, after which he explained everything he had told Stanley at Great Waterton. The Fat Controller listened on, fully absorbed. Then the van gave the same apology to Donald that he gave to Douglas. Before long, Donald and the Fat Controller had heard all that had been spoken, and what had happened only a short time ago right on this hill. Just as Douglas did, Donald stood there, enthralled, absorbed and in a hint of disbelief. Could it be?

"If…if all of this be true…I…I almost have no words…" Donald breathed heavily.

"It is true, Donald. I assure you, it all is," said the van. "And something all the more vital for you to know. I know I haven't been too neighbourly with the two of you ever before but…well…just yesterday at Great Waterton, the stationmaster told us that Dilly had died. Stanley then told me everything about her, and all that she meant to you and did for you as her pet…and…well, I was brought to a whole new shame I can't ever recall feeling before…and so I thought it prudent to tell you just that this morning…before you had to leave with your passengers."

Donald remembered once more and felt a jump in his boiler. It all came back to him clearly.

"…So that's what it was all about," he said lowly.

The van looked even closer to Donald as he replied.

"What you heard back there at Arlesburgh West, just as your guard blew his whistle and you had to set off…I meant every inkling of every word."

"And right here now…you stopped those trucks to save my brother? Why?"

"On account of everything Douglas said to me only yesterday," said the van. "I know I have caused the two of you unspeakable strife and pain thirty years ago, and so I did again only yesterday…but through my time with Stanley, I have come to see…that if I couldn't let go of my spite upon you both, then I would truly be throwing my second chance away for good."

"Douggie…Stanley…is all of this true?" Donald asked with a small tremble.

"It's all true, Donald," said Stanley. "All this van wishes for now is all three of you can start all over again, as if it's a new first day."

"And gradual as it may be, we all have to pitch in," said Douglas. "Not all just one of us. It can only be accomplished if we all commit."

Donald let everything sink in for a few moments, as did the Fat Controller. Neither of them ever would have expected something like this to unfold between Donald, Douglas and what used to be the Spiteful Brakevan. After three long weeks of daunting mourn with Dilly deteriorating right until she died just the day before, this was indeed a spark for a new chapter to begin. At last, Donald took a deep breath and felt it all come through.

"Well…I really cannae say much more than…thank you," he said to the van. "You saved my brother…and I never thought anything like that would ever happen…until now. If Stanley, and more-so my brother take this to heart…then so do I…mate."

As he did with Douglas, the van smiled again. All three of them were prepared to commit to this new beginning, and with a little time, it would all come through in the end. It was then that the Fat Controller spoke next.

"So…that's it, then?" he remarked as he looked to the van. "If what I've heard from all three of you is any indication, then it's clear beyond any doubt now that you have learned from your past mistakes, and indeed, your quick actions helped prevent a most terrible accident."

The van leaned up and down with a nod as the Fat Controller turned to the twins again.

"Furthermore, on this very topic concerning all three of you…I am also well aware of everything that transpired yesterday, down at Brendam Docks…"

Donald and Douglas suddenly felt a jump of worry in their boilers as the Fat Controller continued.

"It would seem, at the time, that you, Douglas, fell into a most uncontrollable state on account of everything you and Donald were put through thirty years ago…back when I was still questioning which of you to keep, until Percy put forth his deputation and you both became completely established on my railway."

"I…I know, sir," said Douglas. "It just all rushed right back to us both, and I was NOT inclined whatsoever to ever see it happen again. For myself, and for my brother."

"So it stands," said the Fat Controller. "I should be disappointed and affronted by your actions yesterday, Douglas…but on the other hand, on account of you defending your brother from such immeasurable pain it must have brought you both, furthermore on account of Dilly's passing, and now, especially on account of this most unexpected revelation…I would say that perhaps the best thing to do is leave what happened at Brendam behind, and allow all three of you to move forward. I see now that between the three of you…things are now changed, for the impeccable better. This revelation is indeed most unexpected…and really useful too."

Donald and Douglas both felt their hearts ease up as they took it in.

"Thank ye, sir," they said together.

"Now, on with the business for you all," said the Fat Controller. "You, as a brakevan, have proven yourself today to be a fast-thinking, brave and really valiant van. As a reward for your newly turned leaf, I shall have you be repainted at the Steamworks. It's high time you were given a proper touch-up after so long. Furthermore, I'd say Stanley could use a van like you at Great Waterton to keep the trucks in order."

The brakevan was indeed most happy to hear this, all too keen to be a part of the Great Waterton Branch Line with Stanley.

"My good sir. Thank you," he replied. "But I'd say with a new paint job, there must be a name too. I've never had one up to now. From now on, please call me Gareth."

"Hmm. Gareth," said the Fat Controller. "It fits quite nicely. Gareth it is, then."

"Splendid. Looks like you're part of my Branch Line now, Gareth," Stanley piped in.

"As for you, Donald," the Fat Controller continued. "In regard to Dilly's passing, and even before she passed, I've been doing a little thinking. I know all of this has been very hard for Douglas, and you especially. Truly challenging, shocking, frustrating, infuriating, and of course, very, very sad for you to have gone through. As such…I've been curious to know…if you would like to have a brand-new paint livery yourself? I wonder if perhaps it would help you feel even a little better."

When the Fat Controller had spoken, Donald felt a certain jump in his boiler as his heart started racing a little. Only the day before were he and Douglas talking about the prospect of him being a different colour for a change, just as all the other Caledonian Engines had been so very long ago.

"Oh, sir…I…I'm honoured and grateful for your offer…" Donald said a little unevenly. "And yet, it's not without a sense of irony. Only yesterday, Douggie had raised the thought about me being a different colour…shortly before we were called to the Docks, then everything happened."

"Is that so?" said the Fat Controller. "So you and your brother were tinkering on this idea already, were you?"

Douglas nodded and spoke next.

"Well, sir, to speak on the matter now, after Gareth's return brought all our hardships to survive back to our attention, I'd been thinking about how I smuggled away with my brother so he could save me from being scrapped…and Dilly's passing has brought to mind all the Caledonian Engines who weren't so lucky as we were. Furthermore, Donald was the engine you originally purchased to help on this railway, sir…hence I thought if either of us were to be repainted…it'd be him. What do you think, sir?"

"Donald? Repainted blue?" said the Fat Controller. "What do you think, Donald?"

"I…well…as I said to Douggie yesterday…blue would make a nice change," Donald replied. "Even more-so with this revelation, and given how very hard we've had it lately…I think perhaps it's time for new beginnings…a new colour for me being one of them."

"Well said, Donnie. Well said," said Douglas. "It only makes sense, sir. Since I was the one who snuck along onto Sodor, I think perhaps I should keep my black livery as it is. Homage, shall we say, to escaping the cutters torch, and a reminder that not all steam engines were as lucky as we two. And what's more, Donnie and I could then be seen as our own engine. Just because we're identical twins doesn't mean we're identical in every single way. We have our similarities, of course, but even then, we are our own distinct characters. Thus having one in a different colour would reinforce that while we are indeed one in the same, each of us are also quite unique…in the same vein Bash and Dash's liveries are the same as each other, but the placements are swapped."

The Fat Controller considered everything Donald and Douglas said and nodded with intrigue.

"All very dutiful points," he said. "Well, Donald. If you wish to be repainted blue from here on out, that's very well by me. And for you, Douglas, I think perhaps a few extra details of lining along your bands and such, so you may stand out more."

Donald smiled steadily and Douglas nodded surely as the Fat Controller went on with a chuckle.

"Besides…it will also prevent either of you from playing any tricks with your tenders, what with you being two different colours now."

Even Donald and Douglas had to laugh.

"There will never be a need for that again, sir," said Donald. "Only ever happened once, and that's all there's ever going to be."

"But wait, sir," Stanley suddenly pointed out. "What about Dilly's family? Will they still recognize Donald in a different colour? All these long years since the start, they've known him as being painted black."

"Stanley, do ye even have to ask?" said Douglas. "Dilly was able to tell us apart her entire life, and Devon and the ducklings have never had any issues on that either."

"My brother's right, Stanley," added Donald. "Given the recent events, both the good and the bad…I really think it's time for a change, and a new beginning for me. If Dilly were to see me in any different colour, she'd know in a single quack it'd be me."

Stanley had not thoughts to the contrary. "Of course, Donald. She was your duck, after all."

"Now then," said the Fat Controller. "In the meantime, we must get this mess cleaned up and get this ballast where it needs to go."

With that, Judy and Jerome got to getting Toad and Douglas' trucks back in order. Soon they were all back on track and ready to carry on. With Stanley's second truck's coupling now broken, Douglas had a plan.

"Say, Stanley. What say I push your trucks and the van along with you to Great Waterton?"

"Would you, Douglas? Thank you," said Stanley.

"Aye. That's right," said Donald. "I could then look after Douggie's trucks and take them on their way again."

"Excellent idea, Donald," said the Fat Controller. "I shall make the arrangements for all three of you to be repainted as soon as this work is taken care of. Then I shall gather the Steam Team and a few others at Knapford, so as they may see the new Donald and Douglas."

"Thank ye, sir," said Douglas. "This really is a most remarkable day."

And so, while the Fat Controller drove off again in Winston, Donald took Judy and Jerome back to their siding at Knapford, and Douglas shunted Stanley's trucks and the van up the hill, then down again, and so they carried on down the line. Donald soon returned to Gordon's Hill and took Douglas' trucks on their way, now quite eager over his pending new paintjob, thinking once more as to what it would be like to be the very colour all the other Caledonian Engine used to be so long ago.

Stanley, Gareth and Douglas all carried on along the line with the ten ballast trucks until they finally arrived at Great Waterton, a little late, given the accident, but delivered just the same. It was then that Douglas noticed the time was drawing near.

"Now then, Gareth," he said. "I'd best get us to the Steamworks, then we'll wait for Donald to come by as well. This is going to be a bonnie new beginning indeed."

"I look forward to it all, Douglas," said Gareth. "Great Waterton really is the place for me to be, isn't it, Stanley?"

"Oh, Gareth, my sense of belonging has always been the strongest right here," said Stanley. "The very best to all three of you on your repaint. I'll come by later to see it myself."

So Douglas collected Gareth, then the two of them made haste down the line, right through Crovan's Gate Station. Before long, they arrived at the Steamworks and went right inside. Jock got down from Douglas and told Victor and Kevin exactly what was due to happen.

"Yes, we heard all about it, my friend," Victor said to Douglas. "As soon as your brother comes, it shall be done."

Douglas nodded thank you, and so he and Gareth stood by and waited for Donald.

Back on the Main Line, Donald carried on with Douglas' trucks along with Toad. By now, Donald found himself in a blur again with the newfound revelation with Gareth, Dilly's death and all that had happened before hand, as well as what was about to happen with him very soon. He had no clear view on how to look at it, or exactly what words to say. Toad could sense this too and thought it best not to disturb Donald's thoughts.

Eventually, Donald arrived at Kellsthrope Road and delivered his load. There, Thomas, Emily and Percy were all lined up at one of the platforms, and Oliver had just finished his own goods run. All four engines had of course heard the spreading word, as did much of the rest of the Railway. Then they saw who had just arrived.

"There he is," Thomas spoke up. "Donald! We've just heard the most shocking thing as to what just happened!"

"You…you have, have you?" said Donald, not completely present.

"All the others have heard it too, Donald," said Percy. "Those trucks running away on Gordon's Hill, with the Spiteful Brakevan right with them…"

"And how that Brakevan saved Douglas from that collision," said Emily. "I never imagined!"

"We also hear that everything is now over between you and that van," said Oliver. "But…how?"

Donald didn't answer, still in a slight blur with everything as he looked down the line.

"Donald? Are you alright?" Emily asked. "You don't seem fully present…"

Donald suddenly looked to Emily with a start. He didn't want to give away what was coming next. Then he looked ahead again.

"I…I have to be going now," he said. "There's something else I must do…"

Before any of the four engines could ask, Donald was uncoupled from Toad and his trucks, then he set off again down the line, leaving the four engines in wonder and curiosity.

"Hmm," said Thomas. "What could be going on with him?"

"Oh, you'll see. All of you will," Toad spoke up, making the engines look to him. "I saw and heard it all…and I think you'll all be quite surprised by what comes next."

"What do you mean, Toad?" Emily asked.

Before Toad could answer, the stationmaster came out.

"Thomas, Emily and Percy. I just got a call from Knapford. Sir Topham Hatt is gathering the whole Steam Team and some others to await a certain something."

"What the…what something?" Thomas asked.

"He won't say, but it must be something special," said the stationmaster. "I'd suggest you all go on your way and group up with the others. And Oliver, you can take Toad back to Arlesburgh. I think you'll be quite surprised by what shall be unveiled soon."

Thomas, Emily, Percy and Oliver looked quizzingly at each other as their drivers all started them up again, and they set off back down the line for Knapford, while Oliver would carry on back to Arlesburgh. Thomas and Percy were most curious as to what this could be about. Then Emily slowly wondered if this had anything to do with Donald and him not being completely present. And so with a tiny hint of glee in her boiler, she kept quiet as they worked their way back along the line.

Meanwhile, Donald carried further up the line, passing through Crovan's Gate Station. The blur of everything was still circling him vigorously as he looked back to his black livery. This would be the very last day this would be his main color. In just a short while now, it would be different. Donald couldn't help but feel his wheels tremble beneath him, but still felt a hint of excitement as he carried on, until he too arrived at the Steamworks. Inside, he found Douglas and Gareth waiting and smiling as they saw him come in. Donald smiled back as he looked to Victor.

"Ah, good, Donald," he said. "We've been expecting you. All the arrangements are made…and you're all here now."

"Aye. We are, then," Donald said with a wink to Douglas and even Gareth.

"Everything is set, my friends," said Victor. "For you, Gareth, a much-needed repaint and a fresh new look. Douglas, some added touch-ups to your livery as it is…and for Donald...the most significant repaint you've ever had. Blue shall be the new black for you."

"Aye, Victor. It shall be," said Donald.

"Right, then. Here we go," Victor smiled as he turned to the workmen. "You know what to do, gentlemen."

And so it began. Donald rolled right onto the Steamworks turntable and stared into the large mirror on Victor's flatbed. Then the workmen got straight to it. Donald watched as they scraped off his black livery bit by bit. In those moments, Donald felt a feeling of sadness trickle in as he realized his days of black livery were now over. It had been his colour right along with his brother since the very beginning. All these long years, and now, that was going to change. Eventually, Donald was scraped of all his paintwork. From boiler to tender, he was now completely bare. As he stared into the mirror, he briefly reflected on all the stories, adventures and experiences he'd had with Douglas when they were both in black livery. So many good times, bad times, unique times and more, there had been through those years. It was the end of one era, and now the start of a new beginning.

Then the main part was put to effect as the workmen first opened the can of undercoat pink. Donald thought back briefly to how James had his pink undercoat on Bridget Hatt's birthday, and of course when Thomas first ever arrived on Sodor in his teal green livery. Steadily and surely, the undercoat paint was streaked everywhere along his boiler, cab and tender until he was covered every which way in bright pink paint.

After letting the undercoat set and dry for a little while, the big moment arrived. Donald watched as one of the workmen popped open another can. He showed it to Donald, and there was the very shade of blue all set for him, to which Donald expounded an intrigued hum. And so the time now came. The workmen all stood with their blue paint cans and began applying the new livery to Donald's body. Bit by bit, stroke by stroke, the blue paint spread across his boiler, then his cab, then his dome.

Douglas meanwhile had his own paint job in progress. While maintaining his general black livery, he received additional red and white lining touch-ups along the front of his cab, boiler bands and wheel splashers, thus giving his main body a little extra colour, while Gareth was having a repaint of his very own, enjoying it most adamantly as it would soon be seen by both twins as well.

Soon, Donald's main body was finished being repainted. Then the blue paint was streaked all along his tender, after which his red and white linings on the cab-sides and tender were painted on again, then his number of course. No. 9 on one side, No. 9 on the other. Finally, the painters applied the same white linings on the front of his cab, boiler bands and wheel splashers too, until finally, the last stroke of paint was applied, and the job was complete.

"There now, my friend," said Victor as he looked toward the mirror. "Say hello to the new Donald."

Donald beamed with pride and peered into the mirror, while Douglas and Gareth looked up and smiled from left to right. There was Donald, now fully painted in his new permanent livery. Caledonian Railway blue – darker than Thomas, Edward, Gordon and Millie, but lighter than Belle, Sidney, Hank, Logan, Sir Handel, Mighty Mac, Timothy, Sonny, Fergus and Bernard - with the same red and white linings on his cab-sides and tender, and additional linings too. Donald felt like a new engine once more and let off a proud whistle, just as Thomas did when he very first became No. 1.

"Well, I do say. Now there's a handsome fellow," Douglas smiled proudly to his brother. "Looking most sharp, you are now, Donnie!"

"Thank ye, brother!" Donald beamed. "I'm liking this new me! I like it a lot! And you, Douggie. Your new linings really make you stand out most nicely!"

"He-heh. It's nothing, brother," Douglas smiled. "Though yes, it is most lovely."

"Wow! Look at me!" Gareth suddenly spoke up. "Take a look at this!"

Donald and Douglas looked and now saw for themselves. Gareth was now repainted too, and he adored what he saw in Victor's mirror. His new paint was cornflower blue with his railway's initials, N and W, his number 13 and his weight, 20T, painted on his sides, all in white. Donald and Douglas found it most impressive.

"Well, I'll be. I don't think I've ever seen a finer look for a brakevan," said Donald.

"Aye. I'd say Great Waterton will be most delighted to be working with you," said Douglas.

"I do hope so," said Gareth. "I can only wonder what Stanley will think!"

Right on cue, everyone suddenly heard Stanley's whistle, then he came into the Steamworks too.

"Hello, Victor," he said. "I thought I'd come by and see how the painting is coming…a…along…"

Stanley trailed off at once and he went very still as he stared at what had just been done. Donald, Douglas and Gareth all smiled back as Stanley looked on for a few moments. Then he drew a most impressed smile and whistled.

"Wow! My goodness! Donald! Look at you!" he exclaimed. "Isn't that JUST the blue for you?"

"Thank ye, Stanley. I really love it already," said Donald. "Douglas is looking quite dapper too."

"Yes, he is," said Stanley. "Very nice new lining there, Douglas."

"Ah, yes, Stanley. Thank you," said Douglas. "And look at Gareth! What do you think?"

Stanley looked again to Gareth as he smiled right back. Stanley marvelled at the cornflower blue, the initials and numbers all painted in white.

"Well. This is nothing like any brakevan any of us have ever seen!" Stanley beamed. "You look absolutely remarkable, Gareth!"

"Thanks, Stanley," said Gareth. "I was sure you'd like it."

"I really do, Gareth," said Stanley. "This new look of yours will make a splendid addition to Great Waterton's rolling stock."

"Oh, he certainly will now," said Douglas. "Now, then…now that everything is done here…what say we all head for Knapford…and show the others?"

Donald, Gareth and Stanley all looked up at once.

"Yes! Yes! Oh, won't they be surprised?" said Donald.

"Certainty of shock. Small chance of mediocre remarks," said Gareth. "…What are we waiting for?"

"You're on it, mate," said Donald. "Full Steam Ahead!"

With no further delay, Stanley collected Gareth again, and with a loud, proud whistle together, Donald and Douglas set off down the line together, now in their very own colours, with Stanley and Gareth not far behind.

At this moment, everyone was now gathered at Knapford Station. The whole Steam Team, as well as Edward, Henry and Toby were all waiting, with the Fat Controller just outside his office. He had told all the engines that something was going to be revealed, and they were all most curious as to what it could be.

"What could this all be about?" Thomas asked. "We've been wondering since Kellsthorpe Road."

"Hmm. Well, Donald said there was something he had to do," said Percy. "But what?"

"Do they have something to show us all, perhaps?" said Rebecca.

"Whatever it might be, it's all been a most outlandish few days for both of them," said Gordon.

"What with that Spiteful Brakevan coming back to this railway," said James. "And then we hear he actually saved Douglas on Gordon's Hill?"

"And even before that, none of us ever knew he was still rolling about," said Henry.

While the other engines wondered and speculated, Emily still had that gleeful sense in her boiler as she thought back to Donald's blurred approach beforehand.

"Well, everyone, I think we're about to find out," she said with a smile.

"Yes indeed, Emily. You all shall," the Fat Controller replied as he checked his watch. "Any moment now…"

Then sure enough, in that very moment, there came those two whistles from around the bend. All the engines watched as they saw who came along. First came Douglas in his black livery as everyone knew him, though he seemed to stand out more as the engines slowly noticed his new red linings. Then just a moment later, on the other line came Donald…all in blue. Immediately, all the engines gasped and gaped as the twins drew in closer. None of them had suspected this to have come about, and they were all most surprised. Donald and Douglas, now in their own colours, drew closer until they were only a few feet away from all the engines gathered about.

"Hello to all of you," Donald said eventually. "Well? What do you all think?"

No one said anything at first. Then it all came out.

"...Cinders and Ashes!" Thomas exclaimed. "Donald! You were at Kellsthrope Road just a while ago! What happened to your black paint?!"

"You look like Thomas!" Rebecca added. "You're blue!"

"Yes, Rebecca, he is," said Edward. "Like Thomas, Gordon and me…just a trifle darker shade. I say…that's a most fitting look for you, Donald."

"Very good, I would say," said Henry. "It looks perfect on you, Donald."

"A very fine shade, that is," said Gordon. "Most distinguished."

"Not bad, not bad," said James. "Quite splendid for you, actually, Donald."

"Oh, Donald! It's wonderful!" Percy peeped.

"Just like Rosie, it gives you a whole new feeling, Donald," added Toby.

"Thank ye, all of you," Donald smiled. "And Emily? What do you think, lassie?"

Emily took a good look at her brother figures' different colours now, and she found herself most delighted.

"My, my, Donald," she beamed proudly. "You look quite handsome in your smart blue paint. Such a lovely tone that livery is."

"Thanks, Emily," Donald beamed back. "So glad you like it."

"Oh, I really do, Donald," Emily replied. "We all do. And you, Douglas. We all really like your new linings there along your bands and splashers."

"Thank ye, Emily," said Douglas. "Gives me a little more character, doesn't it?"

"Oh, yes," said Thomas. "When did this repaint come into play, sir? And how?"

"Well, my engines," said the Fat Controller. "I had the thought that given everything Donald had been through recently, that perhaps he would like a brand-new livery, so as he may feel even a little better after all he and Douglas have been dealt. Even beforehand, he and Douglas had been talking about this very prospect brother to brother…and now, well, here we are."

"Is that so, sir?" said Gordon. "Well, I must say, he looks very suitable, just as I did when I first ever became blue myself…and stopped being a green engine so very long ago."

Rebecca suddenly turned with a small gasp. "You were once green, Gordon? I never knew that."

"Oh, yes, Rebecca. I was. Flying Scotsman and my brothers were all green," said Gordon. "It was all very well in its way, as it is for Flying Scotsman today, but ever since I arrived on Sodor, I prefer my blue. It makes me different, you see, and that's very suitable for an engine like me."

"The engines on our auld line used to be blue," Donald replied, as he did the day before. "But nae sae dark as we are. Douggie and me never were though. We had to be black, sae blue makes a nice change for me."

"A very nice change, and handsome too," said Emily.

Both twins just smiled. The Steam Team had now seen it for themselves. Donald and Douglas in their own colours, and they all agreed it was most distinguished.

"And now…there's one more little surprise I think you should all see," said Donald.

"Really? What's that, Donald?" Percy asked.

Donald and Douglas looked back. "Bring him in, Stanley!"

From around the bend, all the engines heard Stanley's whistle. Then when he came around the bend, all the engines saw the brakevan right behind him, all painted in cornflower blue. Then as he drew closer, everyone could see his number and initials right there on his sides. Once again, the engines were speechless for a few moments, staring at was once the Spiteful Brakevan who had caused such strife and pain to the No. 9 and 10 Engines from all those years ago, now a changed van and with a brand-new look of his own.

"Oh, bananas!" said Percy. "Is that…the Brakevan?"

"Not just the Brakevan now, Percy," said Douglas. "He now has a name. From today forth, he is Gareth."

He and Donald then told the engines all about Gareth's time with Stanley and how he would not be part of the Great Waterton Line. All the engines looked at Gareth and recognized that very face. From all they had heard about the spreading word and more, they knew this van was now a different character, and for the greater better, and just like Donald, they all agreed his new paintjob was suited perfectly.

"Now, then," Douglas said eventually. "You've all seen the new Donald, and myself as well…and the new Gareth. Perhaps we should show the Little Western…and let the others see it for themselves."

Donald turned to his brother and nodded. "Aye, brother. We must."

"I'll bring Gareth back to Great Waterton," said Stanley. "It's been a long day, and he must get his rest."

"Well, thank you for showing us all your new livery, Donald," said the Fat Controller. "Now, there's still a little more for us all to do, so off you go, now."

So Donald and Douglas set off again through Knapford and down the line. The other engines left to resume whatever work they still had to do, until Emily was the only one left at Platform One. The Fat Controller looked and saw she hadn't left yet. Then as he looked closer, he got the sense that she was now thinking about something or other. After a few moments, he spoke up.

"What is it, Emily?"

"Oh. …I was just thinking, sir," said Emily. "…Donald and Douglas have been dealt so very much lately, and Donald's new blue is very nice…but there's still one thing that's been on my mind."

"What's that?"

"Well…Dilly has yet to have her funeral…and I'm very sure Donald will be focusing on her again soon enough. As such…I thought that for the funeral…perhaps I could-"

Just then, the telephone started ringing from the office.

"Oh, that telephone," said the Fat Controller. "Hold that thought, Emily. I'll be right back."

Emily waited as the Fat Controller went inside and answered the phone. He returned five minutes later with his head straight up.

"Who was it, sir?" Emily asked.

"That…was the Tidmouth Hault stationmaster, Emily," said the Fat Controller. "He just told me about a new development…and it seems your thoughts are right in line with what he told me. I know just what you can do tomorrow."

Then he came right up to Emily and whispered a few things. Emily listened closely, then she got a very direct look in her eyes.

"Of course, sir. I certainly will," she said. "It's adamantly appropriate that I go."

"Indeed it is, Emily," said the Fat Controller. "Tomorrow will be a most devoted day for her. Now…I must make ready for tomorrow myself, as will all the Little Western."

Then he returned to his office and shut the door. Emily looked back behind her and thought for a moment. Then with a smile, she gathered two of her coaches, then headed for Tidmouth Sheds to use the turntable, and head off to her destination for tonight…

Donald and Douglas made their way back to the Little Western, and there the unveiling continued. Whenever they passed other engines and passengers alike, they were all surprised to see the twins in separate liveries for the first time, but they all welcomed the change most gladly. Duck, Oliver, Toad, Ryan and Daisy all took note of Donald's new colour and were all impressed.

"Well, my goodness! You're in blue, now Donald?" called Duck.

"Aye, I be," said Donald. "I trust you heard all that happened today?"

All the engines on the Little Western of course heard everything and were all most delighted with Donald's new looks, and so it went on for the rest of the day.

At last, as evening set in, Donald and Douglas' work was done for the day…and at long-last, with the day now done, with so much that had changed and come forth…it was then that Donald suddenly remembered and he suddenly felt a sense of melancholy again.

"Douggie…" he said. "We…we still have yet to show my ducklings...the new me. Will they…?"

"Come right with me, brother," said Douglas.

The two of them went side by side along the line until they came along Tidmouth Hault. Along the platform, they saw all five ducks in Dilly's family. Devon the Drake, Bazil, Todd, Anneka and Emily the duck. Donald looked at them all as he slowed down and stopped at the platform. Then the stationmaster came out and saw it for himself.

"Well, well," he said. "Look at this fine engine in a brand-new colour."

"Evening, sir. I see you've heard too, sir," said Donald. "Yes, I'm blue from now on. Sir Topham thought that perhaps it'd be a good chance to have a new beginning after all that's happened thus far."

"Yes, I've heard it all. And it's very good to see you in this new beginning, Donald," said the stationmaster. "I trust you now wonder what they all think."

Donald saw the stationmaster looking down toward the platform. When he looked for himself, Devon, Bazil, Todd, Anneka and Emily the duck were all gathered together on the platform. They all looked toward Donald, turned their heads to one side, then they all steadily marched up to him, all quacking happily to see him. Just as the Twins had suspected, all five of the ducks recognized Donald in his new blue livery.

"Told you, Donnie," said Douglas. "They know it's you."

Donald's heart tingled dearly as the ducks quacked and flapped their wings in delight to see him in his new colour. It was exactly as it always was in his former black livery. Then in the next moment, it came. That familiar wave of sadness trickled back into Donald's heart, and he went quite still. Douglas could sense this as he saw his brother lean down and start to tremble lightly.

"She…she would have liked it," Donald whimpered. "Dilly would have loved to see me right now…"

"Yes, Donald. She would," the stationmaster said gently. "In fact…your timing is most fitting on this matter. With everything now finished for the day, it's time to put our focus back on Dilly and her family once more…as we all shall very soon."

"Soon do what, sir?" asked Douglas.

"I've been keeping it safe all day," said the stationmaster. "I've something to show you, Donald. Something I think you'll really love…given what we'll be doing tomorrow."

"T…tomorrow?" said Donald. "What's that?"

The stationmaster went inside his office, and when he came out again, Donald and Douglas felt their hearts pound strongly and their bodies went still as stone. There in the stationmaster's hands was a small coffin, beautifully crafted from deep brown chestnut wood. On the lid of this coffin, carved in calligraphy fashion were the most fitting words there could be.

"Dilly – Donald's Duck, His Sweet Quackeroo," it read.

Donald and Douglas knew just what lay inside as their eyes were fixated right on the coffin. Donald could feel it all creeping back to him as that lump came back into his throat.

"There…there she is, Douglas…" he whispered very softly. "My…my Dilly...she now rests…"

"Aye, Donnie. Aye…" Douglas whispered.

"The Vet gave it to me this morning, shortly after your passenger run began, Donald," said the stationmaster. "And right now, it is my duty to inform you both…that it's now been arranged. A funeral shall be held for her tomorrow at 10:00 a.m., right at her pond. All the Little Western Engines, and a few others besides shall be attending."

"Tomorrow…" Donald whispered. "Tomorrow…we'll all be there…at her pond…"

"Yes, Donald. All of us will," said the stationmaster. "And just as you stated yesterday when Dilly departed, it's only proper that she be given a proper burial…exactly as you said. No diggers and no steam shovels. We've decided your crew shall dig the hole for her burial. Errol and Wesley, you'll see to it, I trust?"

Errol and Wesley nodded dutifully, and Donald slowly nodded as he took it in.

"Thank you, sir…it's perfect. Exactly the coffin I would have chosen myself," he whimpered. "Though…though I should think Dilly would have liked one last trip with me before then. I'd have given anything in the world to have had just one more ride with her. One more time, the tame little dear that she was. One more time she might have shared Wesley's sandwiches…and ride in my tender. Now in this point in time…that will never come."

"Oh, Donald. I know," Errol said as he held Donald's smokebox. "It's a very sad shame that chance never came…but her family can still ride with you…and it's only fitting that she rides with you in your cab tomorrow morning. One last time."

"And so she will," Donald shook as he looked to the stationmaster. "Thank you, sir…I cannae say any more or less than just that…"

"Well, you're absolutely welcome, Donald. And Douglas," said the stationmaster. "Now, you two take the time you need to be ready for tomorrow. It will be another sad one for us all, but also one of unity, humbleness and above all, love for your sweet quackeroo, Donald."

Donald was too choked up to answer now. He just nodded again as he and Douglas set off again to return home through the darkening sky…while another certain engine made her way into Arlesburgh.

Soon Donald and Douglas were in their shed again. Today had been very unique thus far. Gareth had finally come out the other side with both twins after so long with a brand new repaint and his own name, Donald had his new blue livery from here on out, the engines had all seen it for themselves and all of Dilly's family recognized him just as clearly as they always had before. Now very soon, it would be the time for everyone to say goodbye to Dilly. Douglas could see Donald staring blankly ahead as he found himself feeling blurred again, and the loss of Dilly was now steadily finding its way back to him.

"Donnie?" Douglas asked.

"It's all becoming a haze for me again, Douggie," said Donald. "Here we are, our grudge against that van finally broken, I'm now in blue from today onwards…and now only tomorrow is my sweet quackeroo's funeral."

"It's spinning about for me too, Donald," said Douglas. "But as I said before, one thing at a time. Tomorrow is for Dilly, and we will all see to it she's given a most divine goodbye from us all."

Donald nodded and agreed solely with his brother. Then they both heard a familiar whistle. When they looked, there was Emily huffing just outside the shed with two of her coaches. She left them in a nearby siding, then came backing into the shed, right beside Donald.

"Hello, Donald and Douglas," she said gently.

"Hello again, Emily," said Donald. "What are you doing here?"

"I thought you'd both like a little visit with your sister figure," Emily replied. "And I also came to tell you…that I'm ready."

"Ready, Emily? For what?" Douglas asked.

Emily held her breath for a moment, then looked at Donald. "I heard Dilly is now in her coffin…and her funeral is being held tomorrow morning."

"Aye, Emily. It is," Donald said sadly. "And as happy and proud as I am with my new colour, and the van's leaves now finally turned…it's all coming back to me again, as it was yesterday. My heart still hurts even now over Dilly, and so it shall for a fair time yet..."

"I know, Donald. And no one can argue against it," said Emily. "Sir Topham heard all about it from the Tidmouth Hault stationmaster…and he and I both agree that I should come along tomorrow. I'm to bring the attendees to Dilly's pond, and as everyone else does, I have nothing but sweet words to say for Dilly tomorrow."

"Ohh, Emily. Thank you. Thank you," said Donald. "It's most perfectly fitting for you to come. After all, you're the one who found Dilly again when she went missing for a few months, and also found that she had her ducklings…I can never thank you enough for finding her again, Emily."

"You're forever welcome, Donald," said Emily. "And tonight, I'm more than happy to bear you both company. We'll all be there together for her."

"Aye. We will be, bonnie sister," Douglas yawned. "You sleep well now, Emily."

"Sleep well, boys," Emily yawned.

Then she and Douglas soon fell asleep. Donald kept his eyes open a few minutes more, once again dwelling completely on Dilly. Losing her still hurt him just as badly as it had the day before, and so it would remain for an untold amount of time, and once the time came tomorrow for everyone to say goodbye, he knew it was going to be a very heavy weight for him to get through. Eventually, Donald's eyes grew heavy and he had to settle in. He looked at Emily as she slept peacefully right beside him, then after a moment, Donald quietly blew her a kiss before he fell asleep too, wondering endlessly about all the words he and everyone else would say for his sweet quackeroo…

The next morning, as the sun lifted over the hills and buildings on Arlesburgh's eastern horizon, Donald and Douglas steadily felt themselves waking up. As soon as their eyes were open, they saw their crews coming, and right away, they knew just what today was, and that heavy feeling settled right into their boilers again as they turned to their sister figure.

"Are you awake, Emily?" they asked together.

"Ohh…" Emily yawned and leaned upwards in a little stretch. "I am now. Morning, Donald and Douglas."

"Morning, Emily," Donald said softly. "Well…the day has come. My sweet quackeroo's funeral…"

"Yes. The time is now here," Emily replied gently. "Everything will proceed exactly as it must today, Donald. For you, for Douglas, and above all…for Dilly."

"Yes…for her…" Donald whispered. "For her…"

Douglas saw his brother looking right outside as he remembered just what he would be doing today.

"Shall we, brother?" he said gently.

Donald nodded once. "Aye. It's time."

Soon, Errol, Wesley, Jock and Patrick got Donald and Douglas ready, and the twins slowly left their shed and headed down the line for Tidmouth Hault. Emily watched them go and sighed steadily before she set off to collect her coaches. She knew that she and everyone else would have some most special words to say for Dilly's funeral.

Donald and Douglas slowly arrived at Tidmouth Hault. Once again, the stationmaster and all of Dilly's family were standing right there together.

"I'm here, sir," said Donald. "And I am ready. One more ride for her."

The stationmaster gave one nod to Donald and went inside his office. When he came out again, there was Dilly's coffin. Donald's eyes shimmered as he looked right at it, knowing he would have a great many words to say once the time came, as did everyone else. The stationmaster carefully handed the coffin to Errol, who walked up to Donald's front and showed him that Dilly was safe. Donald swallowed hard and his lip began to tremble already as Errol walked slowly to the cab and placed the coffin safely on the floor. Then Donald looked back as Devon, Bazil, Todd, Anneka and Emily the duck all waddled along the platform toward his tender. One by one, Wesley helped them all up onto his tender. Donald's Duck and ducklings were now ready.

"Here we go, Donald," said Errol. "One more journey for your sweet quackeroo...and with all her dear family."

With a heavy heart, Donald looked down the line, then set off with Devon and his ducklings riding with him, giving Dilly one final journey. From Tidmouth Station, they travelled all along the Little Western, from the neighboring forest trails, to the bridges over creeks, to the coastal villages, and so it went on, all while Devon and the ducklings looked about every which way from the tender. While Wesley shoveled coal to Donald's fire, Errol took a little glance to Dilly's coffin and gently patted the top, keeping Donald right on his course as long as the journey would be.

Meanwhile, Emily went along her stretch of line with her coaches, making sure to stop by the Rider House on her way up. She saw them both waiting outside, each with a handful of flowers as they got in her cab right away. Then Emily set off again and began her run, stopping at whichever station she needed, picking up all the attendees for Dilly's funeral, all of whom had handfuls of flowers to present. She also noticed the other Little Western Engines making their way together down the line to gather and wait until the time would come. As she continued on her passenger pickup, Emily felt her heart trembling as she too wondered what messages everyone would have for Dilly. It would all come forth soon enough.

Further up the Little Western, Dilly's final journey continued as Donald rounded a few more bends, then came right to the terminus at Arlesburgh. From there, the journey carried on even further, all the way up to Harwick Station, where Donald, Douglas and Duck helped to build the Harwick Branch Line, as did Thomas during the period of his lost honour. Donald then felt himself slowing down as he neared the platform, then came to a complete stop. As he looked around the station and down the line, Donald knew then that Dilly's last ride was over. In just a short while now, she would be buried and bade farewell to, and so it would remain forever. Great tears of departure began to form in his eyes as he ran onto the turntable, then turned around and started the journey back.

At last, Donald and all his ducks came back to Tidmouth Hault. Douglas had been waiting the whole time and looked up to his brother. Neither of them had to ask or say anything. They both knew the time was upon them as they looked at the clock. 9:45 a.m. it read. Without a single word, they set off together. After this long, sentimental and sad journey, they came around one more bend. Then they saw it. Just ahead of them was Dilly's pond, where she was now to be buried. Gathered along the line in front of them were Duck, Oliver, Toad and at the front, Emily. Standing right beside Emily and her coaches were all the attendees. Among them were Sir Topham, Lady and Dowager Hatt, Stephen and Bridget, David, Beatrice, Ian Wainwright, and many others who frequented the Little Western Line and knew Dilly as well as any good neighbour. Everything was now set, and Donald's Duck could now proceed with her most heartfelt and departing funeral. Errol and Wesley got down from Donald's cab, then very gently carried Dilly's coffin down to the edge of the pond and placed it where everyone could see it.

All the engines and attendees looked toward the coffin for a moment, then to Donald and Douglas.

"Well, now. Everything is here and ready to proceed," said Jock McGregor. "Shall we begin?"

Donald just nodded quietly while Wesley helped Devon and the four ducklings down from his tender. Then they all waddled over to Dilly's coffin and watched as the Tidmouth Hault Stationmaster stepped forward toward the pond and checked his watch. 10:00 a.m. on the mark. Then he turned around to face everyone.

"Dear friends of the Little Western and more. Welcome and thank you all for coming," he proclaimed. "We are gathered here today at this very pond, in honour of our beloved Dilly. Such a long and most beloved life she lived as part of our Little Western Line, greeting passengers as they came to and from Tidmouth Hault, helping stationmasters and porters check luggage and parcels whenever passengers came and went along the line, and of course finding a mate of her own, and raising most precious and loving children of her very own for all of us to cherish and love. Most notably of all, though, she was always also known as Donald's Duck."

Donald felt his eyes shimmering and his heart pounding as he tried to hold it back.

"To Dilly, Donald was something truly special," the stationmaster went on. "Right from the very day she was placed in his water tank by Duck's crew. For every day, week, month and year since, she was a most devoted and loving pet for him, right to the very end of her lifespan. And so today, the time has come for us all to celebrate such a life she lived. Here and now, we shall all put forth our final messages for Dilly and lay our flowers before her."

"Aye, we all shall," Donald said shakily. "Every one of us. Now, who shall begin?"

"Donald and Douglas…if I may?" said the Fat Controller.

"Of course, sir," said Douglas. "Please come forth and speak for our beloved Dilly."

Everyone watched as the Fat Controller stepped forward with a handful of forget-me-nots and two yellow roses.

"Words cannot convey my affection for Dilly. She was a doll. Such a loving, devoted and precious darling she was to everyone who knew her."

With that, he placed his flowers right by her coffin, then walked back to the group. Next, Ian Wainwright stepped forward with a handful of daises and petunias which he placed by the coffin.

"I take notable pride in the apparel I sew for my neighbours. But I also look up to faithful, dedicated figures; and indeed, you could always count on Dilly to be faithful and dedicated to her friends, neighbours and her most darling family."

David quietly took note of Wainwright's words, and despite their occasionally pokey relationship, David had to admit the tailor had spoken true for Dilly. After Wainwright rejoined the group, Beatrice came forth with a pink rose and three lilies, placing them by the coffin too.

"Dilly had good manners. She had excellent manners. I'd say Dilly was the most well-mannered and delightful duck I'd ever known."

Then David came forth with two red roses and a lovely white daisy to place by the coffin.

"Dilly, Donald's Duck, you had the best owner in the whole world, and he can never replace you. Never."

All the guests and engines solely agreed with David as Donald swallowed hard. Then Emily slowly came closer toward the coffin, to which Paul and Declan each placed two red roses, and two white roses by Dilly's coffin. Then Emily spoke her share for Donald's Duck.

"I hadn't known about Dilly until seven years ago when I was sent to help Donald at Arlesburgh after Douglas' accident. At the time, Dilly had been missing for a few months, and I distinctly remember how worried Donald was, as everyone else on the Little Western was too. Then the moment of discovery came when I spotted Dilly and her four ducklings marching along the line with her Drake. Such a lovely and delightful sight it was to see that she became a wonderful mother to the four ducks we know now as Bazil, Todd, Anneka and Emily, like me. I am forever grateful and happy to have seen the day I met Dilly, and her memory will be cherished and blessed by us all, today, tomorrow and for always."

Then Emily softly puckered her lips and blew a kiss to Dilly's coffin, after which she gently reversed back to where she was. Her words had stirred everyone quite deeply indeed. Then Duck's crew stepped down and placed their flowers, to which Duck spoke his share, sounding a little choked up.

"Today shall be embedded in my memory forever, as is the very memory of where it all started so long ago. Way back I was given my own Branch Line just like Thomas, I took on the responsibility with such dedication…to which Donald made the remark that I quacked as if I'd laid an egg. I felt indignant on the matter, and so it was that my driver and fireman snuck into Donald's cab that very night…and popped something in his water tank. Then the very next morning when Donald went to fill on water, that small white duckling popped out, and he suspected right away who was behind all that. Here and now, I shall confess, I never thought that what started out as merely a joke to repay him for teasing me would turn into a very long and very happy life for this little duck, and a most wonderful gift for Donald to have his very own pet. To all the thanks he may give me in this regard, he is forever welcome for all of it and more."

Then Duck slowly reversed back to where he was. The other guests placed their flowers and spoke their rituals as well. Everyone had nothing but sweet words to say for Donald's Duck, all of which plucked at Donald's heartstrings like a harp, filling him more and more with such a fulfilling feeling for all he and Dilly had done, until at last, there was only one left to speak.

"Well, now. Thank you all for your kind words and loving devotions," said the stationmaster. "I think the time has now come for the most important goodbye of all. Come forth, Donald…and let us hear you."

Donald took a very deep breath and slowly let it out. Everyone knew fully well that his goodbye would be the most emotional of all, and so it was as he slowly came forward, staring down at the coffin and all the lovely flowers placed around it. As he spoke, his voice shook and trembled greatly.

"Ohh…Great Scott. This is with no doubt the worst pain I have ever had to face in all my years since the very beginning…and this comes from someone who's engine class was otherwise completely withdrawn and scrapped, right down to the last two on Sodor today. Douglas and myself. As the matter stood in her lifetime, Dilly was not only my pet. She was my very best friend in the world. She was friendly, devoted and unequivocally loyal to me and all her friends for every day of her life, right from where it all started so many years ago. Firstly…I want to say thank you, so much, to Duck and his crew. Had they never placed that wee little duckling in my water tank that morning…I never would have had such a wonderful, sweet, adorable and pretty little pet of all my own for so very many years. Dilly stayed with us for all these years, and she never went away. Even when she did go missing for a few months, she had found a mate and had her four ducklings we all know today, and so through herself and her family too, she gave me a certain joy in life that I never thought a steam engine could have. For that, I thank you, Duck, with every ounce of steel that forms my body, I thank you. And Simon and Michael, I thank you both for all of it too."

Duck nodded with utter surety while Simon and Michael wiped their eyes. Everyone was slowly starting to cry as Donald continued. As he went on, his tears began to fall and his voice cracked just a little.

"And now, most important of all to me, I now say thank you, so very much…to you, Dilly…for all you've brought me and to everyone else, for always being there to see me…for raising such a wonderful little family, and every other thing you've done for us all. Your legacy shall continue for years and years to come for us all…and above all…thank you for always being my…my sweet quackeroo. My sweet, beloved Dilly. You may be gone, but you're not forgotten, and never will be. You will always be in my heart, my sweet quackeroo. Always. Goodbye, Dilly. I love you!"

With that, Donald had finished his final farewell to his duck, and he couldn't hold back his sobs any longer, and so he let it out, as did Douglas. By now, all the attendees had tears in their eyes and were drawing their handkerchiefs. Then Emily came closer to Donald as her tears left her eyes too.

"We all love her, Donald," she sobbed. "We all love her very much. She'll always be with you. Always."

And so at last, the time for burial had come. Everyone watched with strong-beating hearts and tearful faces as Errol took Wesley's shovel from Donald's cab and began digging the hole. Scoop by scoop he piled beside the hole, making sure it was perfectly squared to shape as it needed to be. About ten minutes later, the hole was dug. Then everyone watched with rippling hearts as Errol and the stationmaster gently held the coffin together, then slowly lowered it down into the hole, and out of sight. There it would stay buried for always and forever. Then slowly and gently, Errol took the shovel and started filling in the hole. Then once the hole was completely filled in, Wesley took the shovel and gently smoothed it out until it was a perfect square spot in the ground.

And so, the funeral was complete. Dilly was now officially buried, and there her body would rest forever. All the guests proceeded to rearrange their flowers all around the filled-in hole until they were all placed in a lovely circle. Donald wouldn't have had it any other way. So beautiful, devoted, kind and truly the perfect way to close Dilly's book with. All the engines and guests lingered and stayed for quite some time, not saying a word as they reflected and remembered everything Dilly had done, meant and been for the Little Western and more.

After nearly an hour, slowly and gradually, the guests returned to Emily's coaches as they felt ready to leave and go about the day themselves. The ducks then all waddled toward Douglas, so as to let Donald have his own time, to which Jock helped them all onto Douglas' tender. Then Duck, Oliver, Toad, Emily and Douglas slowly left the pond and went on their way back. But Donald stayed put for a while yet, now by himself as he continued to hold his eyes on Dilly's resting spot. Errol and Wesley stood right by him, letting their engine take all the time he needed. Moments gradually became minutes, which ticked on and added up. Ten, twenty, thirty, forty, fifty. But still, Donald stayed where he was, never averting his eyes from the bundle of flowers right there.

"I won't ever fail you, Dilly," he whispered as tears trailed down his face and he sniffled hard. "If I could stay right here forever and ever…I would nae mind. Just to be with you…just to be with you, my sweet quackeroo."

"Dilly will always be with you, Donald," came a distant, echoed voice.

Donald's eyes looked up at once. Hovering right before his eyes, was Lawrence Rider's spiritual form. Donald went very quiet as Lawrence drifted nearer and lingered before him.

"Lawrence," he whispered. "It's done now…For my sweet Dilly…everything is finished…over…"

"In some ways, perhaps it is," said Lawrence. "But in light of all that has happened, Donald, both the good and the bad, whenever you feel the need to see someone…you should know. Any time you have to see them…Dilly's family. You meant a great deal to her."

Donald nodded slowly, looking once more to Dilly's resting place. Then with a deep breath, he slowly set off again and down the line to return to Arlesburgh, his heart stirring endlessly all the way.

When Donald returned to the Little Western, the whole village was completely quiet and still. Just the way it needed to be today. Soon afterwards, Donald returned to Tidmouth Hault once more and stopped with a sigh. Douglas was on the line beside him, and Devon and the four children were on the platform again. Donald spoke not a word as he closed his eyes and went still. Douglas knew not to say anything and let his brother feel whatever he needed to right now. Once again, Donald found himself falling into that deep state of mind, comprehending eternity moment by moment and stretching on before his heart gave a little jump. He then looked down at his running plate, almost trying to see Dilly right there as if she were riding with him as it used to be only a few short months ago. Everything seemed to have gone so slow and yet so very fast at the same time. Donald knew this blur would last a little while longer before everything returned to normal, and he would not be alone.

Just then, they both heard an engine approaching from in front of them. When they looked up, there was Emily stopping right at Donald's buffers. Then David and Beatrice came out from her cab and looked deeply at the No. 9 blue engine.

"Hello again, Donald," Emily said softly. "We trust you stayed some while longer at the pond. However long you needed to?"

"Yes, Emily. I did," Donald said quietly, then told them all about Lawrence and what he had said.

"Oh, Donald. That's very lovely," said Beatrice. "You meant a great deal to Dilly, and so much more besides."

"Right now, though, I'm wondering, Donald," said Emily. "Did everything proceed just as you wished?"

"Aye. It has, Emily. It delivered all I needed to see, and so much more," said Donald. "Everyone's words and messages for Dilly…it's all the most wonderful thing I could ever be blessed to see and hear. Especially your words, and Duck's too…"

"Of course, Donald," said Emily. "All our words shall shine for Dilly's memory."

Donald looked into Emily's eyes and slowly buffered up to her. Then he put his lips to her cheek and gave her a long, gentle kiss. Emily closed her eyes and sighed contently as Donald kissed her then gently let go.

"Thank you, Emily…thank you for being with us today, and last night," he said softly. "This really has been the hardest, most painful three weeks of my life. I know there are things to be happy about too. Douggie and me finally being on good terms with Gareth at last, I have a wonderful new blue livery, and everyone today has been so kind and so loving in Dilly's memory. Yet…well…"

"Yet the pain of losing her is still there inside you," said Emily. "And I assure you, Donald, there is nothing wrong with that. Wounds like this take time to knit back together and heal. When Lawrence died, I had to reknit and heal that wound for quite some time, even after David first came here and I became his engine, as it were."

"You don't have to rush anything, Donald," said Beatrice. "You're not alone either. Everyone is here for you, for as long as you need to get through to the other side."

"I know, Emily, and Beatrice," Donald said softly.

Then Emily slowly came forward and buffered up to him.

"And always remember, Donald," she whispered. "I love you."

Then with a soft little coo, she leaned in and kissed him on his cheek. Donald felt his cheeks blush warmly as Emily kissed him. Then she switched to the other line, then came toward Douglas and buffered up to him.

"Just the same for you, Douglas," Emily said with a sweet smile. "I love you too."

And she kissed Douglas on his cheek too, to which he gave a loving blush before she switched back to Donald's line and buffered to him again.

"We love you too, Emily. So very much," Douglas whispered.

"Aye, and we always will," Donald whispered.

"And all your ducklings love you too, Donald," Emily smiled gently as she winked to Devon.

Donald and Douglas looked to the platform, and right on cue, Devon, Bazil, Todd and Anneka waddled toward Donald, then all hopped on his running plate, quacking away together. Douglas and Emily giggled dearly, and Donald's heart nearly melted with delight to see them all right with him. Then they looked and saw Emily the duck waddling over too, quacking most adorably herself. Then David came over, gently picked her up and petted her soft little head before placing her on Donald's running plate too.

"Well. All's well that ends well. That's what Dilly would know for sure," David said dutifully.

Donald, Douglas, Emily and Beatrice all nodded in agreement, and so after so many challenges for the twins, here they were altogether with new beginnings that would indeed see promising, fulfilling days in the time ahead.

And so, in the days that followed, the Little Western felt like a whole new place with the recent events that had unfolded. Donald quickly grew accustomed to his new permanent blue livery and loved it just as much as he did his previous black livery. Douglas was looking younger and more refined with his new touch-ups to his black livery, and both engines felt more like their own engine than they ever had before. Gareth was much happier as well. After building such a solid friendship with Stanley, he quickly grew accustomed to Neville, Harvey, Flora and whichever other engines came and went from the Great Waterton Branch Line. He was now working happily with Stanley and taking care of the trucks whenever they stated playing too many games or tricks. Most importantly, whenever Gareth and the Scottish Twins saw each other along the line, they always showed their appreciation of each other's forgiveness.

This had indeed been a big period of change and new chapters for Donald and Douglas, but through all of it, one thing was completely certain. Donald never forgot Dilly. Although he loved her children and Devon most dearly, and although he would dearly love any future hatchlings who'd come along in the time ahead, none of the new ducks would ever take her place in his heart. She was in a class by herself. It's not often that someone comes along who is a true friend and a good pet. Dilly was both.

I hope you all had a Happy Christmas, and what a way to wrap up the year, huh? The Spiteful Brakevan, or Gareth as I've named him, saves Douglas from a collision and that allows him and the twins to finally bury the hatchet between them, and land him a place on the Great Waterton branch with a new blue paintjob. Speaking of which, yes Donald is now painted blue as well, just as he and Douglas were in the RWS, while Douglas remains in his black livery, albeit with extra red lining added, especially along his boiler, because I love the idea of both twins being a seperate colour. And what better way to close the story than with a beautiful funeral for Dilly. And with that, 2024 is done as far as stories are concerned, and 2025 will be a big one because it will mark ten years since I first started on this site with "Fortunate Circumstances" back in 2015. How it's been a decade already, I have no clue, but Jeremy and I have a lot of major stories planned next year, one of which is the 250th story. As always, I can't thank Jeremy enough for his incredible help this year, and I can't thank any of you all enough for following and supporting these stories throughtout 2024. Have a Happy New Year, everyone, and I'll see you all in 2025, stay safe.