Sodor: Dark Times [My Cringe AU]

Sent away

March 11th 1968

Dieselization reached the island not so long ago, while most engines weren't too kind to the new diesels, specially after the new shunter twins arrived at the scrapyards, and eventually took Stanley's job.

Even if it Stanley was bought by Stephen before the diesels were bought, the other steam engines wouldn't see it like that.

"It's not fair!" Stanley began, as he got at Knapford sheds, next to him were one black diesel shunter, formerly known as just "Diesel" until he was named "Bruce" and Thomas. "I worked there for so many years, and im replaced that easily?"

Thomas spoke "Well, you were bought by The Fat Controller way before those two diesels arrived!"

"Even so, i also don't see it as fair." Bruce said, now looking at Stanley "im affraid there isn't much we can do."

A few minutes of silence followed, up until Thomas sighed

"Where's Henry?" He asked, looking annoyed "he was supposed to be here fifteen minutes ago!"

Unknowingly for the three engines, a failure in the points had sent Henry down the line of the abandoned branchline James had crashed into years ago. Luckily he was able to stop in the unstable rails, and as he looked around, he seemed impressed.

He had stumbled upon Great Waterton, a bit further than where James had crashed. Getting to see the abandoned buildings. It was overgrown, rusty and very old.

Henry chuffed to a halt, as he looked up to a tower, which looked unfinished "i must tell everyone about this!" He said, finally returning the way he came from.

By the time he finally made his way up to Knapford, the three shunters were still discussing Stanley's predicament, they didn't even pay attention to Henry's presence.