Traintober 2023 - Tumblr Posts

Traintober 2023!

So excited to be here! I’m going to be writing this for the next month so it may be a bit for the next Yellow Rose update, but don’t think that it’s going away forever! It’s being written too! Enjoy!

Day One - Free Day!

Gordon was surprised to say the least when he returned to Tidmouth Sheds and the adjacent manor that night. When he first left the manor that morning there was nothing out of the ordinary. Now? There were cobwebs hanging across each doorway of the roundabout shed. He slowed to a stop at the turntable, letting his driver and firemen out, who looked equally surprised. He shifted to his human form and rolled his head, a light crackle of his bones feeling excellent after a long day, and he waved goodbye to his team. As he approached the manor’s door he could hear music getting increasingly louder, till he opened the door was blasted with a loud bass. He winced, growing irritable at the sound and it was making him increasingly cross at the assault. The manor looked the same as always as he walked through the door and found himself following the sound as he walked up the steps to go upstairs.

Spooky scary skeletons

Send shivers down your spine

Shrieking skulls will shock your soul

Seal your doom tonight

As Gordon reached the upstairs living room, he found Camille dancing by herself to the music as she placed a few skeletons on the mantle of the upstairs fireplace. With her back to him, he found the Bluetooth speaker and began pushing the button rapidly down to a lower volume. She quickly turned around as the volume died and she grinned at him.

“Gordon! You’re home!”

“And my ears have never been so assaulted in all my life. What on earth, Camille?” He looked at her admonishingly.

She only grinned back at him and held her arms out to the room, “It’s spooky season!”

He cocked an eyebrow at her, “Spooky season?”

“Yeah, you know, Halloween.”

He looked at her not understanding, “Halloween is one day and it’s at the end of the month. Today is only the first.”

She walked over to him and took his hand, spinning herself though he found himself aiding her, “But it’s my favorite time of year and there’s no harm in decorating now.”

Gordon looked over at a small tote of decorations and rolled his eyes, but her smile was contagious. He smirked down at her and shook his head, “Fine, but keep the volume down at least. For me?”

She tiptoed to kiss him and he leaned down to his lips, “Of course. I know you like to watch the news or crime shows when you get home. I lost track of time. I’ll turn my music back to my earbuds.”

Gordon grunted in response and moved to his favorite blue recliner to turn on the TV. He eyed the little box once again and shrugged. There had never been many decorations for the Halloween holiday at Tidmouth or anywhere on the island that he could recall. A few decorations could do little harm.

The next day, when Gordon returned home, there were skeletons in the yard and hanging around the sheds. Some were full sized, some were small, others were just bones placed around the yard strategically with a few grave stones. Where on earth had she found those? He ignored them as he walked up the path to the house.

The day after, Gordon began to look around in an almost frustrated awe as there were gooey window stickers to spell out the words “HELP” or “BEWARE” with red blood decorating them. There were even a few bloody handprints and he found that on some of the sidetracks that weren’t used in the yard there was caution tape and cones around some fake blood and a dismembered limb.

He chastised Camille about her poor taste, but James and Thomas defended her and talked about how great the décor was. There were even little odds and ends inside the house, including but not limited to skeletal animals (a dragon, raptor, unicorn, and gryphon to name a few), sugar skulls, a few venus flytraps and piranha plants next to Henry’s plants in his indoor garden cabinet lit by their warm lights and also a few decorative orange and black lights, table clothes with spiderwebs and decorative towels, and this was all just in the main room! She had replaced his own blue mattress set for a Halloween themed one. There was a little “trick or treat” block on his desk and a Halloween countdown calendar as well.

But the last straw was when he came home one day and found a tall animatronic witch on the front porch, by the door. She was the stereotypical green, warts and all, in all black clothes with the pointed hat and the broomstick in hand. He glared at the witch and she looked blankly ahead.

Gordon sighed and went to walk right past her when she moved and started cackling in a high pitched laugh. He about jumped out of his skin and turned to scowl at the robot who continued to laugh.

“Hiya, sonny! How about a kiss?! Eeeeeehehehehehehe!!”

Gordon had never wanted to punch something so badly. He looked the witch over in disgust and stomped into the house as she continued to cackle.

“Camille!!”

“You love me!!” She said laughing from the upstairs.

Gordon shook his head as he removed his shoes and work jacket.

This was going to be a long month.

Traintober!! I know I’m running late, but today was insane! But I’m posting now!

Day 2 - Bridge

It was supposed to be a fun and relaxing day. How could it have turned out so wrong?

Camille and Gordon had decided to go on a double date with James and Edward to the animal park where a new indoor exhibit had opened. It was an indoor rainforest, with open waters to walk by and see all sorts of exciting creatures, from exotic birds and fish to caimans and the creepy crawly insects. Those things more hazardous to health, like the dart frogs and tarantulas were in well-kept and enriched enclosures along the path.

The two couples walked hand in hand with one another, pointing at the different critters walking around and chirping.

“This is absolutely beautiful.” Edward said as James wrapped his arm around him, pulling him close as they walked together, “We’ve never actually been here before, sad enough. Thanks for the invitation, Camille.”

The small tank engine smiled back at the two, “I’ve been really looking forward to this part of the park opening. It’s nice and warm in here and the butterflies that they brought in are absolutely beautiful. They’re even thinking of making a specific butterfly room.”

“They can keep the insects to themselves.” James said with a look of disgust.

Edward chuckled, “Still not over that bee sting after all this time?”

James grumbles and looks away, “Don’t like creepy crawlies..”

“Well, we’ll avoid the tarantulas and spider exhibits then.”

“Yes, please.” James said, eyeing a few exhibits.

Gordon, who had been silent for the most part and just enjoying being around his girlfriend, looked up at the top of the enclosure, “Is that a rope bridge?”

The others followed his eyes. Camille smiled, “Yup! Something fun for the guests to cross apparently.”

James grinned, “Looks like fun!”

Edward frowned, “Looks like a hazard.”

“Well, there’s only one way to find out. Let’s go!” James tugged Edward towards the stairs climbing up.

“But, James, the other animals. I’d like to see-“

“We can come back! I promise!” James grinned and then looked back at Gordon and Camille, “You two coming?”

Gordon rolled his eyes at the red engine’s enthusiasm, preferring to just take a stroll through the park with Camille. She smiled up at him and he just shrugged, giving her the reigns of the situation.

“We can always go walk around after. Might as well get it over it.” She intertwined her fingers with his.

“Fine by me. If it’ll get James to just relax and enjoy the day.” Gordon grumbled and the two made their way up and after the newly married couple.

When the two couples had managed to make it to the third floor and to the bridge, Camille and Edward were beginning to have second thoughts. The rope was thick and sturdy, but it was still a rope bridge and that meant walking on a “floor” with holes in it. James, however, was excited by the thrill of it.

“We can only go one at a time.” Edward noted, doing his best to not look down.

“You know… I’m beginning to have second thoughts.” Camille said, backing into her boyfriend, “Engine’s should keep their wheels on the ground.”

Gordon smirked and placed both hands on her shoulders, “Nervous, little tank engine?”

“Um, nope. Not nervous. Just… thinking about my health.” Camille said, looking down at the forest floor below.

James started walking across the bridge, holding onto the sides as it swung a little, “Whoa!” He turned back to Edward grinning, “C’mon sweetheart, I’ll be right here.”

Edward hesitated but placed one foot on the rope swing, “James, I don’t know about this.”

“You can hang onto my shirt if it makes you feel better.” The splendid engine smiled brightly at his husband.

Edward groaned softly and then swallowed, putting his other foot on the bridge. It wiggled a bit beneath him and he instinctively reached out and grabbed the two sides of the bridge.

“Nope! Don’t like this!”

“Well it’s too late now.” Gordon rolled his eyes and jabbed a thumb behind him, “There’s a line forming and only one way out. Get going, old iron.”

Camille frowned at her mate disapprovingly and James scowled at the express engine. However, he quickly traded that for a soft look at Edward and reached out to take his hand, “You can take my hand. I’ll let you walk in front of me and I’ll be right behind you.”

Edward smiled softly, the nerves still evident on his face, but wiggled his way in front of James and the two began the slow walk across. James stayed practically flush against Edward’s smaller frame, making him feel more comfortable.

But Edward wasn’t the only one having doubts. Camille had fumbled her way onto the bridge and was shaking like a leaf during fall. Her face had turned pale.

“Gordon if I survive this don’t ever let me talk you into coming up here again. This is one fear that I don’t want to face.”

Gordon chuckled as he was pushed across the bridge from the excited children behind him, “You’ll survive Camille. The rope is made to handle a lot of weight.”

“How do you know that?” She asked, taking another step.

“I read the sign back there while Edward and James were taking their sweet time.”

“Well, regardless, I’m never doing this again.”

Gordon chuckled and gently nudged her along, “There’s no going back now, Camille. Keep going.”

The little tank engine groaned in frustration, but seeing James and Edward make it safely to the other side, she practically skipped across the rope bridge to firm ground.

“I will never take terra firma for granted again.” She said, still shaking.

Edward laughed, his legs still shaking as well, “Me neither. Curse us for having adventurous mates.”

Camille chuckled as Gordon came to join the others, “To be fair, I think my own curiosity got the better of me this time.”

Edward chuckled and looked at James, smiling but serious, “Never again.”

James smiled brightly, “Alright, Ed, never again.”

I apologize that I’m behind on Traintober! I have things written but I’ve got sick kiddos and a guest coming from a good distance to spend the weekend. I have some really cute things written up but they’re on my dead tablet and it’s charging! I will get all things posted soon! I really think you’re all going to love it! 🥰

Traintober: Day 2 "Bridge

"*Ffrindiau sy'n delio â Geffyroffobia ac Acroffobia*"

[Old Iron Bridge, East Sodor]

Skarloey tried not to look down at the marsh below, he focused his eyes ahead as best he could, trying to find something to latch onto. He couldn't really, aside from Duncan and the clouds.

His incident at the old wooden bridge had left him a touch shaken. His attention was, at this moment, drawn to Duncan who seemed very on edge whilst crossing the old iron bridge. He couldn't particularly blame him, the bridge did seem to have a presence to it. In the back of his mind however, he wondered if perhaps Duncan felt the same about bridges, or more specifically about heights.

He could hear Duncan muttering to himself up in front, but wasn't quite sure what he heard. "There's nae such things as ghosts, there's nae such thing as ghosts." "Duncan? Everything alright up there?" Skarloey asked cautiously. Duncan blinked and and in a rather shaky reply, ". . Oh-Aye. I'm fine."

Skarloey wasn't quite convinced.

- Happy Traintober everyone! Sprites and background by Princess Muffins.

I originally wanted to do a whole mini retelling of Skarloey's most infamous episode, but there wasn't a background for the bridge. So I improvised and I quite like what I've come up with.

Hopefully the next one will be more of a story.

Traintober: Day 3 "Twins"

"Oh hell, more twins!"

[Vicarstown Goods Yard]

Algernoon surveyed the new arrivals with distain.

“Oh hell, more twins!” Algernoon grumbled.

The two diesel shunters stared at him, then looked at eachother.

“Dodge when were you gonna tell me we were twins?” One said. “Its news to me I thought we were cousins-” Dodge replied. “Isn’t there a song associated with that?” The other one ventured.

Algernoon's face fell, and whatever he had for blood began to boil.

“Oh my god they’re as stupid as they are ugly.” He groaned.

The purple one, known as Splatter, looked over at Algernoon, “You wanna talk about ugliness-look at those bags under your eyes!” he guffawed.

Dodge joined his laughter, albeit more shortly, and finished with “Looks like you could use some sleep, big guy!”

"I sleep just fine. . . “ Algernoon muttered.

-

Sprites and Backgrounds by Princess Muffins.

I took the first day to plan and work on some stuff.

Traintober: Day 4 "Devious"

"The Ironworks, you know it, I know it, shit always goes horribly wrong."

[Killdane Ironworks & Smelting Company, East Sodor]

The lineside was littered with scrap and debris, rusted out hulks lay sad and disgraced all in a row. Damien had never been to an ironworks, much less a scrap yard and believed it would be a walk in the park for himself. He is rather dense. A grimy and worn western tank engine, stopped just ahead of the shunter. Their brass and various other parts coated in a fine rust, that had built up amongst their workings.

Their gaze bored into Damien, and they spoke with a low measured tone, "So, you're the new shunter?". "Naturally, afterall I'm a new, modern-" Damien replied in a smug self satisfied spirit, but was quickly interrupted.

"You are another engine like the rest of us, now get to the far side of the yard, there's a train of slag that need's shunting." The tank engine hissed.

Damien was taken aback, "Now hang on a minute-"

"I'm going to stop you right there, I have work to do, we are especially busy this time of year, and unless you intend on making yourself useful, I strongly suggest you leave and free up some space." The tank engine wheezed its way into motion and glided past a stunned, Damien.

But the tank engine wasn't quite done yet, "If you thought I'd be anywhere near as much a pushover as that traction engine, you've got another thing coming." The Western Engine sauntered off, into the bowels of the yard with a set of flatbeds in tow.

Damien watched them go, quite bewildered. How on earth did they know about. . . .well it is a small island, word travels fast and all that. He wasn't quite sure, but one thing was set in stone.

"Devious" Damien was going to hate it here.

-

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, Amelheronemus, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff]

Happy Traintober!

Before anyone asks, yes I took the HIT bibles "two diesel's" theory too seriously.

Traintober: Day 5 "Its Only Me"

"Nothing beside remains. Round the decay Of that colossal wreck, boundless and bare, the lone and level sands stretch far away.”

[Killdane Ironworks & Smelting Company, East Sodor, 10:PM]

It was getting late by the time Damien's work was nearly finished. His last assignment for the day was to move some flatbeds into some sidings in the large smelting shed, alongside the blast furnaces.

He rolled past the rotting engines and wagons as he made his way through the large shed. They had now taken on something of an uncanny feeling.

Damien could hear noises all around, but he was never sure where exactly some of them were coming from. Normally this would be little cause for worry, he was in an ironworks, loud noises came with the territory, but not all of those noises sounded as if they came from snorting machines.

It was only himself now in the building, so where were they coming from?

-

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, Amelheronemus, Crimson Caden, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff]

Happy Traintober!

Beautiful story, interesting to see Emily sticking up for Diesel, don't believe I've seen this storyline before.

"...are we supposed to care?" this sent me.

Keep up the great work.

TrainTober 2023: Devious

"Damned If You Do, Damned If You Don't"

A storm raged fiercely out in the morning dawn.

Many engines were gathered at the Big Sheds. Emily, who was still new to the Island, sat center-stage atop the Turntable, listening to the commotion around her.

"Everyone," she spoke pointedly, "We have a serious problem. Diesel is going to be scrapped."

The Sheds fell quiet. Too quiet. An uncomfortable, deafening silence hang in the air.

"Well?"

"...are we supposed to care?" someone murmured meekly. Emily shot a glare into the crowd of engines.

"Is this railway not a safe haven engines of all creed?"

"I wasn't aware Diesel had a creed," someone grumbled. There were faint murmurs of agreement among the crowd.

"Diesel has come back to our Island multiple times over the years!" Emily continued, "He's proved himself a hard worker, and that he's dedicated to giving his all for each and everyone of us. Most of all, he's proven, time and again, that he's a changed engine!"

"But not exactly a good engine, has he?"

Emily blinked, turning towards the familiar presence of a Great Western Pannier Tank sitting at the far corner of the Shed.

"Sure, he's changed," Duck grimaced, "We all have, but that doesn't change anything about the lies he told about us -- about me."

"This isn't about you, Duck. A fellow engine is in need of help, and--"

"--Your 'fellow engine' spread nothing but lies and deceit when he first came here," The Pannier scolded, "You are more than welcome to greet him with open buffers, but understand that I won't."

"No one said you had to." Came an oily voice.

The engines jumped as a crack of lightning danced across the horizon, revealing a dark boxy figure looming at the shed entrance. With a coughing wheeze, Diesel crept into the shed, looking exhausted.

"Don't mind me," he coughed, "Had to sort out a late arrival from the storm. What were you all talking about?"

The other engines didn't reply.

"I see," Diesel sighed, "You found out too, didn't you."

Duck and Emily glanced to one another, unsure of whether to say anything.

"Well, if you want me to say my piece," said Diesel, "Here it is: So be it. I've lived a fair life. If they're going to call my number, they'll call my number and get it done with. But..."

An oily grin, worn-out yet wily as ever, formed on Diesel's lips. Duck scowled at the sight of the devious look in his eyes, bringing back bad memories for the Great Western Engine.

"Let's just say, you all have more than enough incentive to keep me around."

The uproar was ferocious. Engines whistled and yelled, many cursing out the oily wreck standing at the shed entrance until it was silence by a Great Western whistle. Duck eyed the other engines, her gaze on them as stern as it was on Diesel.

"What sort of incentive?"

Diesel chuckled. "Oh, a little parting gift. You'd be surprised, but for all the time I've spent on your railway, I've been privy to some of the most interesting of tales. Tales I'm sure many of you would love to keep out of the public eye."

"Are You Blackmailing Us?!" Gordon spluttered.

"I'd call it more of a barter, really," Diesel smirked, "In exchange for my silence, and the destruction of any and evidence I have of such scandalous encounters that would besmirch quite a few fellow famous engines, all I ask in return is a place on this wonderful railway."

The engines huddled together, conversing quietly over whether Diesel could be trusted to keep his word. At last, Emily spoke up.

"We would be more than happy to have you with us," she answered.

"Excellent, I'll let--"

"--Provided you keep your word." put in Duck.

"Of course," said Diesel smugly.

"That means no lying, no tricks, and definitely no talking to the Troublesome Trucks."

"I wouldn't have it any other way."

"Good," Duck replied, and she looked out to the horizon. "Storm's clearing up. I best be off. I shouldn't keep Alice & Mirabell waiting."

Duck set off out of the shed, only to be stopped by the cough of a devious diesel.

"One more thing," he grinned, "I assume there will be a deputation with the Fat Controller, to let him know where the engines stand on the matter, yes?"

"--Diesel is a hard-worker. He's dedicated beyond a doubt, and more than willing to put others before himself. He's Responsibly, Reliable and Really Useful. And most of all, he's..."

The Fat Controller stared. "He's...what, Duck?"

Duck coughed, feeling herself gag a little at the thought of her next words. "He's a better shunter than me, Sir."

The Great Western Engine stared as the Fat Controller fought to compose himself.

"Is everything alright, Sir?"

"Of course, Duck," he smiled, "It's just... did you and the others not know I was already intending to purchase Diesel from the Other Railway?"

Traintober: [Deleted Episode: Always Watching]

"The Arrival"

[October 31st, Sodor, Whistling Woods, Killdane]

Edward made his way through the dark and foggy forest, the sun had been going down as he passed through Cronk, now it seemed darker than ever. Edward didn't really mind, he found travelling during the dark hours quite calming due to the lack of trains at this time.

He did however mind the fog, it made it difficult to see. He did have his lamp, and there weren't any trains scheduled but all the same.

His mind wandered back to what Henry had told him before he left the sheds, to "keep an eye out for anything strange." which to be perfectly blunt, was code for watch out for ghosts normally.

Edward had become quite accustomed to the knowledge that there were things he and the rest of the world couldn't and likely wouldn't ever understand, but what Henry had said seemed off.

He had said more, and implicated he hadn't meant spirits, but what Henry would otherwise be implying, Edward found himself skeptical. All the same he couldn't shake the thought he was being watched, not by an invisible presence, but merely something he failed to catch sight of.

Perhaps they were trainspotters? He wasn't sure.

He soon came upon the first truck, the first of many he was supposed to collect from the sidings in the woods, but this one was off.

Not off the rails mind you, but its location was off.

It was sitting in the middle of the mainline, a ways away from his intended destination, and seemed to have been tagged. . .

-

Truth be told I ran into a bit of a dilemma on whether or not to make this or not, given I've already got a post for Day 5.

But alas, I've been really eager to share this so, yeah.

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, [I have only reskinned some stuff]

Traintober: Day 6 "Special Letters"

"Thomas' Special Letter"

[Vicarstown Sheds, Post-Great War]

"Are you quite sure?" asked Henry in between coughing fits, "Very." replied Edward. "Mr. Hatt's bought a new engine from the mainland."

"Hmph, probably to handle goods work." Gordon snorted as he backed onto the table and prepared to turn 'round. "Saving the real work for important engines such as myself."

Edward continued, "By the sound of it, he's requested a tank engine."

Gordon snootily looked over, "For shunting at the big station?"

"Hard to say," ventured Edward, "the new engine could very well be used on the mainline-" this suggestion was interrupted by a loud guffaw from the big blue engine.

"If thats the case," replied Gordon, "Then I'm sure this new tank engine won't last a month!"

[Knapford Junction, Afternoon]

One afternoon Thomas brought their last train to the junction, she stopped alongside Toby and his coach Henrietta. Percy was sitting on the adjacent siding. "The Fat Controller's arranged for my trains to end earlier today and for me to report to the yards later." said Thomas excitedly.

"He said the same to us. Do you know?" Percy went on, "I think something's up."

Toby looked up at the sky "Where?"

"Down here silly!" Chuckled Thomas. Toby looked at Thomas. "How," asked Toby reasonably with a broad grin, "can something be up, when its down?" "Ask Topham and his supply of-" but Thomas was interrupted by Percy's shrill and excited whistle.

"Bust my buffers, look over there!" the little green engine all but shrieked. At that moment there came a loud rumbling and several engines from the other railway ran through the station.

"Hello Jane! Hello Pug! They're friends of mine from The Mainland, but I can't place the others."

Jane whistled cheerfully in response to Percy's calls, whilst Pug gave a loud blast, and grumbled the rest of the way through the station.

"What is all this?" Thomas half-chuckled. Their driver stuck his head out of the cab and called ahead. "I suppose we'll find out if we follow 'em. Its probably a part of Sir Topham's plan."

So Thomas, Toby and Percy, followed behind the long cavalcade of engines to The Big Station at the end of the line, where the rest of the engines were waiting.

-

Sprites and backgrounds by PrincessMuffins, SplendidEngine02, etc

Traintober: Day 7 "Refreshments"

"A Piece Of Cake"

[East Sodor, Skarloey Railway]

The crane had gotten to work picking up fallen branches and debris from the rails and surrounding infrastructure as Peter Sam approached.

The two exchanged a greeting, before Peter Sam inquired about the strange wooden box sitting propped against the fence.

"Mr. Hugh says this old shack is useless now, likely to be dismantled once we clear it away."

Peter Sam gave 'the shack' a once over, and noticed something odd about its appearance and its underside, or what was left of it.

"That's not a shed. . .thats an old coach!"

A low snore came from the old coach, she hadn't been awoken by the noise. . .somehow.

All the same Peter Sam now had an idea, and he couldn't wait to share it with Mr. Sam.

"Erm, Rusty do you remember how those two clergymen and Manager recovered that saloon coach last week?"

The little diesel cocked an eyebrow, but it didn't take long for them to catch on to what Peter Sam had in mind.

"Yes, if you think its a good idea, I'm sure Mr. Hugh wouldn't mind the challenge." the little diesel replied.

Mr. Hugh gave a thumbs up, as if to punctuate Rusty's sentence.

-

Sprites and backgrounds by PrincessMuffins, CJTheCreator, Swiftwin4ds, LeatherBootlace, etc

[Sorry for not crediting you initially CJ.]

Not much to say here, I wasn't feeling all that inspired here and I'm sure that shows. Then again college might have something to do with it.

I'll try to have more instore for the next two.

Traintober: Day 8 "Bird"

"They say I waddle"

[Western Region Docks, United Kingdom]

"Oi, Monty where's the eggs?" 1437 ventured. 5741 let out a long sigh, "Terrence if this about my waddle then I don't wish to hear anymore." but 'Terrence' rallied again. "No, I mean, there were a few trucks of eggs on your line that I was meant to arrange." He clarified.

"Don't know Terrence, I just got back from the coaling stage." Just then a low whistle sounded out as 517 came in with a small mixed goods. "Afternoon Montague, Terrence." She whistled to the pair. "Hey Matilda, have you seen some trucks of eggs by chance." Terrence asked.

"Mhm."

"Where-"

"A few hours ago."

Terrence grumbled to himself as his face produced a long frown, Matilda only continued to smile.

"Not entirely helpful." Montague replied.

"The truth isn't entirely helpful." Matilda replied in kind.

"The Great Western Way would beg to differ," Terrence retorted, but Matilda merely smirked and said, "The Great Western Way ALSO admonishes failures that could have been avoided. I think losing your train in such conditions would be highly avoidable."

-

Sprites and backgrounds by PrincessMuffins, CJTheCreator, tsDra90n, Amelheronemus.

Inspiration wasn't really there for this, sorry.

Traintober: Day 9 "Viaduct"

"Beware Of The Viaduct"

[North of Deighan Loey, Big Dipper Viaduct]

Henry has occasionally made trips along the old branchline, even after his incident at the station by the lake, but it seems that even though he's met 'the friendliest ghost on the island', it seems things haven't quite ended yet.

Henry's route past the old station takes him across The Big Dipper viaduct, which had been unusable for one reason or another on his first two trips up the branch line.

Despite the workmen's claims the viaduct's safe to cross Henry cannot shake the uneasy feeling he gets whilst crossing it, sometimes swearing he can hear something crumbling.

If that wasn't bad enough Henry, also hears deep mournful whistles predominantly on this side of the island, but can never seem to identify the source.

Old Bailey has recently promised to inspect, Henry's confident he won't find anything that'll validate his claims, but he still holds out hope.

His next train is due through here tonight, and he's just heard an owl hoot. . .

-

Sprites and backgrounds by PrincessMuffins, CJTheCreator, wyattloughrie.

Felt a bit more inspired by this one. Been feeling a bit burnt out as of late.

Also sorry nothing particularly spooky has occurred. . .yet.

Traintober: Day 10 "Happiest"

"Nobody's ever happy being around Killdane."

[Killdane Iron & Smelting Co, East Sodor]

Derek trundled into the yard with a long train of scrap from The Mainland in tow. He glanced about the yards watching the workers going about their work. Truth be told he wasn't at his happiest here, for good reason, naturally. He himself had been in danger of being scrapped not long ago, still work had to get done, and he had a job to do.

As he approached the smelting sheds, he noticed something odd. The Ironworks was. . .staffed with different engines. Drake, a small great western shunter stopped ahead of Derek. "Good work, if you need the fuel pumps they're on the siding nearest the sheds.", Derek looked the engine over, and against better judgement asked, "Are you new to the ironworks?" The engine, stared at Derek, grumbled something indiscernible, before bluntly stating "No, I've been here for quite a while."

Derek thought for a moment, and asked.

"Weren't there two diesel shunters who ran this yard?".

Drake stared, a difficult to determine expression with hints of tiredness fell upon their face. "No." they said quite plainly. "Are you quite sure?" Derek ventured again, Drake pondered for a moment. "Over there." they said, Derek looked over and watched an unfamiliar diesel shunter, grumble past with a train of slag wagons and what appeared to be a rusty tender in front.

Derek didn't quite know what to say.

-

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, CJ The Creator, Amelheronemus, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff]

Happy Traintober!

Sorry for the absence, college is a lot of work.

Traintober: Day 11 "Roundhouse"

"The Roundhouse"

[Vicarstown Sheds, East Sodor]

The New Diesel surveyed the shed, Algernoon sighed internally, why the hell was he chosen to show around the new engines. "So do you find the sheds to be up to your standards", Algernoon asked the new engine.

The red diesel, erupted into a loud "YES!" with excite billowing from him. Algernoon was taken aback, he had hoped the newest acquisition would not be so loud.

"Pipe down." he rumbled. The new engine, Wilson, he believed his name was subsided. "Sorry I'm just so happy to be here, ready to start work-where will be working-Perhaps a quarry?" Algernoon was beyond words. This new engine just kept talking and struggled to keep a coherent and consistent string of thoughts together.

He hoped things wouldn't get worse, then he saw Splodge approaching.

He could feel a migraine coming on.

-

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, CJ The Creator, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff]

Happy Traintober!

Sorry for the absence, college is a lot of work.

Traintober: Day 14 "Young Iron"

"I surprised everyone."

[In-Furness Area, United Kingdom, Pre-Great War]

There wasn't really a feeling like it, coasting down the hill through the picturesque landscape that is. He soared along the line, coaches in tow, careful as to avoid a bumpy ride. His driver eased him off, assuring him that there was plenty of time, that he'd put himself ahead of schedule enough as it is. 35, was not satisfied however.

He was on top of his game, and there was no telling how many opportunities he'd get to show off his paces. To exemplify what Furness Railway's 35 could accomplish.

'35', a true example of the Edwardian era's innovations in the railway industry.

-

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, CJ The Creator, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff]. Not quite sure who made the meadow.

Happy Traintober!

Sorry for the absence, college is a lot of work. Had to take a rest for a day. Gonna get back on schedule soon.

Traintober: Day 15 "Maintenance"

"Twins But Opposites"

[Crovan's Gate, Sodor Steamworks, East Sodor]

The Foreman stepped out in front of the two shunters, "You're free to go Dennis." The grey diesel shunter murmured "Five more minutes. . . " under his breath, as he dozed.

The Foreman wasn't having any of this.

"Now. We need that space for any rolling stock or engines that may need repairs." As he said this another worker called out from another part of the works that another engine, likely James, would need that track Dennis was on today.

The Foreman signaled to Dennis' driver to try and start him up. After a few more moments of his driver trying to start him up, Dennis lazily opened his eyes, "Fiiinne." he groaned. His engine clattered to life and began to leave.

Norman watched his brother leave, he couldn't help but feel small twinges of resentment for Dennis. He had a fully functional engine, whilst Norman had to wait until the workers told him yet again there was very little they could do aside from a temporary patch job, and yet he had the audacity to waste his abilities on lazily resting when there was more than enough work to be done.

Norman however, held his tongue. Dennis was his brother and even if he held contempt for Dennis' habits, he still cared deeply about his brother, his twin.

Twins they may have been but no matter how physically alike, they'd always be polar opposites.

-

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, CJ The Creator, Anthochel, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff].

I'm going to be honest, given that fact Crovan's Gate is so skilled and all, I struggle to imagine how Norman's issues weren't seen to not long after his arrival. Or just in general. Same goes for Paxman.

So for now, unless contradicted by a later piece, imagine this is not long into Norman's being on Sodor.

Traintober: Day 16 "Purpose"

"The Decapod"

[Somewhere United Kingdom, Pre-Great War]

"You said you had news from control." Hurricane asked, his driver replied simply. "I do," he took a breath then spoke.

"Our railway was able to meet the requirements put ahead of us by parliament. The bill for the tube train is no more." he finished. Hurricane was ecstatic.

"That's great news! I knew we could do it." As he said this, Sid's face began to fall, he stared off.

"What's wrong Sid?" He initially didn't say anything, then finally, "The Great Eastern can't find a place for you in your current state as you exceed the maximum loading requirements in some areas."

"So, what? What's going to happen to me?" Hurricane was getting worried. His driver continued. "Well the Great Eastern has deemed you surplus to requirements. If you weren't larger than what's allowed in the more suburban areas, they could probably find a place for you. At least for a while longer. ."

Hurricane stared at the ground, his driver spoke up once more, "I'm. . .sure they'll find a place for you yet."

Hurricane sat there for a moment.

"What if I was a different design?"

-

Sprites and Background by PrincessMuffins, CJ The Creator, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff].

Traintober: Day 19 "Revolutionary"

[Goods Yard, United Kingdom]

Rudolph rumbled through the yard, shunting vans and flatbeds this way and that. On his latest run through the yards, the points took him by a long line of 08s, like himself. All painted up in British railways black.

"Oi, so you've come for try outs as well?" One piped up as Rudolph drew near. "What?" The other diesel merely gave a confused smile, before chuckling. He seemed to have been under the impression that Rudolph had been feigning ignorance.

"Tryouts? You know, to be the devious diesel character? Apparently they'll be hosting a day out event in a few days time, and are casting a devious diesel." He finished impressively.

'So that's what this is about....' Rudolph thought darkly.

"Although, I am interested to know your take on the character, seeing as you've gotten done up for the occasion. May not be canon-compliant like mine, but definitely an inspired vision."

Rudolph honestly had no idea what to say to this and so, decided not to dignify that statement with a response.

Though he did take some pride and amusement in the knowledge he was a lot more. . . .canon, as he put it, than one might've assumed.

-

PrincessMuffins, CJ The Creator, etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff].

Continuing off of the Damien's no good very bad adventure posts.

Traintober Special: Discovery and Collection

"Toby's Discovery"

[Late 20th Century Sodor, Tidmouth Hault, West Sodor.]

"Come along Toby, we're going exploring." Toby had found himself taking The Fat Controller and his family to a small station on Duck's Branch line, what had initially been a small outing to the seaside and soon turned into an adventure. An expedition as Sir Robert would call it, Toby had idly wondered if perhaps Sir Topham spent a bit too much time around The Earl. . .

"If you don't mind my asking sir, where will be going?", The Fat Controller dopily turned around, a childlike glint in his eye.

Toby hadn't quite gotten a straight answer, it seemed Sir Topham had wanted it to be a surprise. In truth this wasn't such a bad thing, but Toby wasn't quite sure he liked where they were going, they were now entering the wildest part of Sodor. At least, wild to an engine who didn't leave the ffarquhar branch often.

He had been shaken from his thoughts by the realization he had arrived at a lonely signal box along the branch line.

As the driver and firemen disembarked, a sleepy signalman clambered down from his box. He looked as if he hadn't slept properly in sometime, and was quite jittery too.

Whilst Topham and his crew spoke with the signalman, Toby looked around at the barren countryside.

"Toby is everything alright?" Henrietta asked. Toby hadn't realized it, but he'd been staring off into space for a while now. "I'm quite alright Henrietta, no need to worry about me." he said as casually as he could. He wasn't sure but he was sure he saw something behind the bushes and trees in the distance.

The adventure was soon underway once more as they travelled down the abandoned branch, enduring many brambles and bushes before arriving at another little junction.

They were faced with the choice of the castle, and the mine. Naturally the children wished to see the castle, and Topham had agreed.

-

"There's the castle!" cried Richard from inside Henrietta. All eyes affixed to the giant structure not far away from an old water tower.

The castle was as to be expected slowly crumbling away but stood tall and mighty, it gave Toby a sense of foreboding, but perhaps it was just the dilapidated nature of the structure.

"Yesss. .and now we shall visit the mine." The Fat Controller said to himself thoughtfully.

Toby didn't know why, wouldn't know for a while even, but his heart sank at that.

-

PrincessMuffins, CJ The Creator, Carsfan16, StarSearch etc. [I have only reskinned some stuff].

I'm gonna level with everyone. I haven't been consistent with my postings for traintober, because of not being inspired in some cases, and suffering burn out in others.

I was gonna do more for the last day to make up for it, but I got sick mere days before.

I'll be posting the prompts I didn't get to though, and stuff inspired by them.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN 2023.

PS. If you have any question about my AU don't be afraid to ask!