//------------------------------// // Chapter 6: Together Again // Story: Thomas & Equestria Girls 2: Adventures From Sodor // by LPFanFic //------------------------------// Thomas & Equestria Girls 2: Adventures From Sodor! Chapter 6: Together Again Sunset Shimmer and the Engines emerged from the portal in the Wondercolt Statue onto Canterlot High's courtyard. Thomas, Percy, James, Gordon, Toby, Emily, and Sunset were now in their human forms and dressed in the same attire from their last visit, and new clothes Sunset's been wearing for quite a while. The school was closed and the midnight sky sparkled with stars. The Engines needed a moment to cope. They stood and sat on the concrete grounds, still a little winded from their escape. Sunset went around checking up on everyone. Next, she saw Thomas by the portal they entered from on the eastern side. He sat with bent knees and gazed dejectedly at the portal in a contemplative trance. Thomas thought of going back to Sodor. But while the engines are accepting that they couldn't do much against the diesels, he was close to entering the portal again. He just couldn't let them go. Gisborne did say the next ferry wouldn't arrive until he received notice. There was still a chance to save them, a chance Thomas was tempted to take this very moment. However, Thomas felt someone place a hand on his shoulder. He looks back and sees his friend, Sunset Shimmer, crouching down to meet his level and sharing looks of worry. He then glances over at the other engines, some still downcast. They didn't want him leaving on a solo rescue mission. The last thing they needed was for another friend to get captured. Sunset especially sided against this. Looking over at a worried Percy, Thomas remembered the last time a very good friend was taken away, and how hopeless he felt for not being able to do anything. That was until Sunset and her friends from Canterlot High came to his side, and gave him the courage, strength, and friendship to carry on and help overcome the odds. Remembering this, Thomas' eyes began watering up. Just looking back at Sunset and her reassurance informed Thomas of everything she didn't have to say aloud. Sunset gently wrapped her arms around him with her cheek pressed against his head. Thomas leaned his hands on her shoulders and allowed a few tears to spill out. This was not at all how both of them pictured their reunion to turn out, but they were still immensely thankful to be at each other's sides again. After a while, the group made their way to Sunset's house. It was going to be a cramped and uncomfortable night's sleep, but that was the least of their concerns. Sunset checked up on Thomas and Percy comforting each other. Then met with Gordon next, hugging his left arm with shame. "I was in front when they were caught," Gordon reflected. "Perhaps if I'd gone a little faster, then Henry wouldn't have been derailed and gotten Edward trapped." "Don't blame yourself," Sunset said, noticing his distressed demeanor. "There was nothing we could've done, right?" "Except I should've hurried like Thomas said. But those diesels, they were faster and stronger than us. How could they out match me?" He sighed. "Maybe, they are the better engines after all." She tried cheering him up. "Better than you guys? No way. Diesel won't get the better of us again." Still dejected, however, Gordon decided not to say anymore and fell behind to walk on his own. Sunset was worried for everyone. It was clear leaving their friends back on Sodor left a impact worse than either expected. Finally, the next day came along. The early morning sun shined over the city and the blue sky was clear as day. Students arrived at Canterlot High and occupied the halls, waiting for their classes to begin. Sunset Shimmer and the Engines entered the school, with Sunset texting her friends to meet by the Band Room. Though it was nice being back at Canterlot High, the Engines were still a bit down in the dumps. But with each passing hall they entered, the more their excitement started stirring again. Memories of their time at CHS with their friends began to relieve some stress. Turning a corner, the group found Twilight Sparkle and the rest of their friends from across the hall. "Sunset! Thomas!" Twilight called. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Applejack and Rarity stopped for a second and beamed at the sight of their friends, who also returned genuine smiles from seeing them. Then both groups rushed over and happily greeted one another. The Girls all huddled around Thomas first and greeted him before splitting off and welcoming the rest of their Sodor friends. Murmurs and conversations filled the halls, sparking from the enthusiastic girls and less enthusiastic but still chipper engines. "Pinkie Pie!" Percy called. Squeeing with joy, Pinkie Pie rushed over to Percy, wrapped her arms around him and lifted Percy off the ground while twirling on her foot. "I'm So Happy To See You Again, Percy!" She puts him back down and let's go. "Did You Know How Much I Missed You? 'Cause I Missed You SOOO Much! Like This Much So Much!" She tried spreading her arms out as far as she could. "I did too, Pinkie, I-" "Anything Fun And Exciting Happen On Sodor?" Pinkie Pie interrupted, popping up and jumping around Percy. "Like A Party? A Railway Party? A Mail Party?! Or Another World On The Brink Of Destruction From A Big, Scary, Evil Meanie That We Have Stop Before We Can Restore Order And Harmony While Stuffing Our Faces With Candy In Case We Run Outta Steam Party?!" Percy chuckled. He was equally as happy to see Pinkie Pie. "Nothing like that, Pinkie. Not yet at least. But I already feel much better now that we're together. I even brought a present for you!" Pinkie gasped loudly. "A Present?! For Me? Aw, You Didn't Have To. Having You Visit Us Again Is The Best Present I Could've Asked For." "Okay." Percy smiled a cheeky grin and whipped out his cupcake in a playful manner, "So, I guess you won't want this specially backed Sodor cupcake then?" Pinkie's eyes glistened and jaw dropped. The cupcake reflected in her eyes. It was made with pink frosting, baked with mouth watering vanilla flavoring with a creamy filling, and sparkled with rainbow, chocolate sprinkles. Pinkie Pie admired the glistening cupcake with a slobbering stutter before shaking her head vigorously. "I CAN'T TAKE IT!" She grabbed the cupcake and chowed it down. Percy held back his gigging after Pinkie finished and burped. It took a moment for Pinkie to respond, as the flavors meshed together in a way she's never tasted before. "Percy! That Was The Most Delicious, Otherworldly Cupcake I've Ever Eaten!" Percy arms bashfully hid behind his back. "Well, your cupcake was so good, I just knew I had to bring one over from Sodor just for you to have." "Aw, Come Here, Party Pal!" Pinkie Pie embraced Percy with another hug, which he happily returned the favor. After hugging, James noticed Rarity's new outfit wasn't the same as before, even the others were now sporting different looks. "Wow, Rarity," James said. "When did you all get new duds?" "Oh, you mean my new ensemble?" Rarity posed in various stances to show off her outfit. "We've had them for quite a while. Marvelous, isn't it?" "I Agree. Amazing work as always," James smiled with crossed arms. Rarity cleared her through. "Actually, this was made by a sophisticated fashion designer who used one of a kind patterns from one of a kind, imported materials that yours truly bought at a one of a kind Boutique." "So, it's one of a kind?" "Precisely!" "Wow!" James held both flaps of his jacket. "Almost kind of like my outfit, huh? You don't see anything like this in your world anymore. That must make me one of a kind too!" "Eh, yes," Rarity smiled, sheepishly. "Em, James, sweetie, have you reconsidered letting me couture your own outfit at all? Just asking, of course, you don't have to say yes. Just know I won't deny you the privilege of receiving said wardrobe upgrade if you do." "Hmm. Not recently. I like being splendid and red. And anything I wear will be just that and only that." Rarity was proud of James for embracing his own style, but would much rather see him in a more updated style she designed and was eager to show off for him. "Right. Well you see, I've already finished stitching the wardrobe that I promised for you and our friends, and I was wondering if maybe you wouldn't mind-" "Hold it!" James held Rarity's shoulders. "You really made a new outfit for me?!" Rarity smiled and nodded. "Mm-hm." "And it's up to date and all that other stuff I don't understand a word of?!" "Tss. Darling, darling," She sniggered. "Only the best for a fellow fashion enthusiast. And a good friend." James smiled. Secretly, he also wanted to wear something new that solidified him as a fashionable person. He didn't expect Rarity to follow through on it though, and even came to admire his attire after their stint at Rarity's Fashion Show. But hearing she took the time to make him and his friends new, proper outfits anyways made James just as eager to see what she made. He gently let's go of Rarity, rubs the back of his head and casually cleared his throat. "I mean, I suppose I could give it a try." Rarity's hands rested on her hip as she shot James an amused smile. Applejack was heartfelt upon seeing Toby still wearing the outback straw hat they made together. She approached Toby and playfully gripped the front brim. "Well, I'll be," She then let's go, "You actually kept it." "Of course, I did," Toby chuckled. "We both made it together after all. And I figured you wouldn't mind me bringing it." "Read my mind better than a horse can count to twenty." Applejack places a hand on his shoulder and spoke sincerely, "Thanks, Toby. That sure means an awful lot." "We all brought back the gifts you gave us. Some of us even brought their own to give." "Really, now?" Applejack teased by rested her elbow on Toby's shoulder. "Don't suppose you brought one for me then, did yah, sugarcube?" Toby nervously darted the floor. Applejack shot him an amused smile all the while. "Uh, well, I, um," He stuttered. Applejack giggled and nudged his arm. "Ah, I'm only follin', Toby. Seein' you with that hat still on is good enough." Toby smiled with gratitude. "Don't worry, Applejack. Next time I'll be sure to bring back something for you." "Suit yourself. So, now that y'all are back in our dimension, I'm bettin' yer eager to led some 'muscle' at Sweet Apple Acers again?" Toby chuckled. "That would be fun! And much needed. Only, we had a bit of a rough trip. It might be awhile before we get back on our, uh, feet, so to speak." "Figured as much. That darn Siren just doesn't know when she's beat. She goes and spellbinds the whole school into fightin' one another, and now she has a stubborn bull's temper to send y'all away so she can soak up negative energy from diesels?" "Was she really that bad?" "They were bad," Applejack specified, referring to Aria and Sonata. "An' If you call almost takin' over the whole world usin' hypnotic voices to turn simple bickerin' into magical crazed so and so's that can fuel their own powers bad, then yeah." "Oh, deer," Toby said, troubled. "It really is worse than we thought!" Toby was still thinking about his friends, and how much danger they could be in with the Siren over on their Railway. Applejack worried a bit more after examining his demeanor. So Toby, knowing fully that he can confide anything with Applejack, told her everything that happened. Gordon was still a bit upset. Unlike the others, interacting with their friends didn't really cheer him up all that much. Rainbow Dash snuck up and nudged Gordon's arm. "So, Gordon, how's my favorite lughead doing?" He was happy to see Rainbow Dash, but not as overly enthusiastic as he was showing. "Hello, Rainbow Dash. Still think you're faster than a speeding train, are we?" She shrugged, boastfully. "Don't know. Still think you're the fastest thing ever, or are we about to pass the torch onto someone else?" "And what's that suppose to mean?" "Not to brag or anything," Rainbow Dash leaning a little close. "But I've been training up a storm in preparation for another match, if you catch my drift." "Ah, yes. We haven't really decided on who would've won, have we?" "Which we're definitely long overdue for." Rainbow Dash cracked her knuckles, "So, what do yah say; ready to see who the real master of speed is? You know, after we solve the whole Siren problem." Gordon perked up a little, forgetting he was upset for a second. "In deed, we shall! I've come close to breaking my top speed record. And I'll have you know… you'll probably win," His arms slouched forward in dismay. "Hah, well duh! I'm," But Rainbow Dash soon caught on to his strange behavior. "Huh, did I just hear you say that correctly?" With everything flooding back into his forethought again, Gordon turned his head away in shame. Confused at first, Rainbow Dash then tried joking around by knocking on his temple. "Uh, hello! Is Gordon there? I'd like to speak to his ego." He looked to her again and tried creasing a humble grin, but she wasn't buying it. Rainbow Dash had ever seen Gordon like this. She didn't know what to make of it. "Oh-kay?" She said, crossing her arms. "What's up with you?" Thomas and Twilight Sparkle finished hugging as Sunset Shimmer and Emily joined in on their conversation. "I missed you all so much," Thomas said, feeling much better. "It feels like only yesterday since I was last at this school." "We missed you too, Thomas." Twilight Sparkle then unzipped her backpack. "Isn't that right, Spike?" Twilight's dog, barking and wagging his tail, springs from her bag and into Thomas' arms. Spike then proceeded to lick Thomas' face, making him laugh all the while with Twilight and Sunset giggling. "Hi, Spike!" Thomas patted his head until Spike stopped. "Hi, Thomas! Great to see you again." Spike looked over at everyone else. "Whoa! You brought all your friends from Sodor too?" Thomas muffled his dismay and continued beaming. "We sure did, Spike. Everyone's back together again." Spike scratched the back of his ear with enjoyment. Emily still wasn't used to the talking dog and found it too bizarre to take it in right away, even for Thomas, who was acting like nothing was out of the ordinary. Sunset placed a hand on her shoulder. "It'll get less weird over time," She assured. "I hope so. We are gonna be here a while." Emily looked around at her friends, "There's just so much I need to catch up on." "What about Sodor," Twilight asked, while petting Spike. "Is it really as bad as we thought?" "Worse," Sunset said, bluntly. Twilight stopped petting Spike. Her eyes widened with worry and looked to Thomas darting the floors. He was too anxious to talk about it. How could he, knowing who was left behind in wake of their escape; someone who Twilight got along well with. Meanwhile, Fluttershy went around greeting all the Engines, who responded warmly and welcomed her in return. She hugged Percy, patted Toby's head, and waved at James. Fluttershy was eager to see Henry again most of all. She passed by her friends and searched for him. But everywhere she looked, Fluttershy didn't see Henry anywhere among the group. Confused at first, Fluttershy then began to worry and questioned his absence. She stepped outside the group, hands overlapping one another. "Um... where's Henry?" Suddenly, the group fell silent. Everyone glanced over to Fluttershy, who had no clue to what transpired. "Hey, yeah?" Twilight noticed. "And where's Edward? I thought he'd be the first one I ran into?" The Engines shared looks to one another, which confused almost all the Girls, save for Sunset and Applejack who joined Thomas and the others as their head fell in dismay. Moments ago, they were back to their usual high spirits. Now it seemed to have diminished over Fluttershy and Twilight, and the unfortunate news they'd have to break. "Uh, Fluttershy," Applejack said, resting an arm on her shoulder. "There's somethin' you oughta know... about Henry." "And Edward," Sunset said to Twilight, solemnly. "What about? Is Edward okay?" Twilight Sparkle began to worry even more. Sunset Shimmer took her and Fluttershy away from everyone and over near a set of lockers where they could talk privately. The Girls stared at the Engines and their solemn complexions before turning to Thomas, still holding Spike who was also just as confused. "What-ever is going on, Thomas?" Rarity asked. "Didn't you say everyone was here?" Spike asked. "How come Edward and Henry aren't with us?" Thomas didn't know how to explain and continued staying silent, which only worsened their concerns. "What happened to you guys?" Rainbow Dash asked, still looking for an answer from Gordon. "Toby told me the gist of it," Applejack said. "Let's just say this whole ordeal is a bit more complex than what Diesel or Sunset's vision told us." A stuttered whimpering came from across the hall. Both Twilight's and Fluttershy's eyes leaked a stream of tears. While Twilight was too stunned to process this information, Fluttershy was on the brink of a meltdown, muffling her mouth with both hands until she couldn't hold back anymore. Crying out loud, she wraps her arms around Twilight Sparkle and sobbed into her shoulder. Twilight was still in shock, but she embraced Fluttershy as well and lets her tears flow while both friends comforted one another. Everyone was heartbroken. Listening to their cries was unbearable. Sunset lets them sob until the waterworks subsided, saved for Fluttershy who still poured and endless stream. Sunset, Twilight, and a whimpering Fluttershy rejoined their friends and explained what they were told. All steam engines were being taken off Sodor and sent back to their factory of origin, where it'll be decided if they should be preserved or scrapped for parts. This was orchestrated by the Siren they fought from the past, Adagio Dazzle, who somehow regained her enchanted ruby pendant and stumbled upon the portal leading to Sodor. There, she took possession of Gerard Gisborne, a Railway representative, and had him remove steam traction from Sodor. With Thomas and his friends out of the way, in addition to capturing two of them, this allowed her to seize control over the North Western Railway and its diesel population. Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, Rarity, and Applejack were horrified. They expected the Siren to be much stronger now, but were still baffled over how she repaired her pendant. What came as the biggest shock, however, was Edward and Henry's capture. The pressing fear over Edward, Henry, other steam engine's fate were too much to take. Though Thomas and Sunset tried reassuring everyone that Edward and Henry may not be leaving today, the fact that they weren't here to reunite with everyone was still a heavy blow to the Girls. "This can't be happening," Spike said. "How could they just get rid of you; just like that?" "Mr. Gisborne thinks steamies are out of date and wants to update our Railway with diesels," Thomas reflectived. "'Out with the old, in with the new', he said." "All except you, apparently," Toby said. "He wanted to put Thomas in the Earl's Railway Museum." "A railway museum?!" Some of the Girls exclaimed in unison. "I still refuse to wrap my funnel around that," James complained. "What has Thomas ever done to earn a place in a museum?" "Hey! I've done lots of things, James!" Thomas argued. "I run my own branchline for starters!" "We've done remarkable jobs too," Gordon added. "Like how I conveyed the Queen herself to our Railway." "Exactly," Emily said. "So, is it really necessary to scrap every steam engine on Sodor?" "This Mr. Gisborne fella sounds more like a case of rotten eggs if yah ask me," Applejack said. "In deed," Rarity said. "Though I do suppose he's not entirely unjust for what he's trying to accomplish." "Why's that?" Emily said, with arms crossed. "One lesson I had to learn in the fashion industry is that change cannot be stifled. Things don't always hold the test of time, and new discoveries always enact new interests. If it's the type of change that streamlines a more modern future, than I'm afraid steam engines have found themselves in a bit of a rut." "Are you saying we should just let them put us out of work?!" Thomas snapped. "Those are our friends you're talking about," Percy joined. "Ugh! That was not at all what I was implying!" Rarity said. "It may be true that some of us weren't meant to last very long," Toby said. "But we've managed to prove ourselves time and time again." "Yeah, but steam isn't exactly in use here anymore either," Rainbow Dash said. "Plus nobody ever talks about how great locomotives were." "But if steam was still relevant in their dimension," Twilight theorized, "could their fluctuating time be inoperative? It might explain why they haven't caught up to our generation yet." "Surely I meant no offence, darlings," Rarity corrected, "but that's just how nature works. Once a trend has run its course, it's left to be discarded for the next big innovation." The Engines hung their heads. Was their time really up? Was Gisborne right in saying they were coming to an end? How did people on Sodor feel about this? Did passengers demand something new and more reliable too? Perhaps they were looking for something different, which is what led to the production of diesel and diesel electric. The Girls realized they weren't helping much to ease their worries, especially Rarity, seeing how her claims had only managed to upset her friends even more. The Girls didn't know what to do now. How do they fight back against a threat that's taken away half of Sodor's locomotives, that's historically setting new grounds for a new future? Meanwhile, Fluttershy kept to herself, hardly saying a word during their discussions. She tried muffling her whimpers whenever Henry was mentioned. But everyone could still see her sadness showing. "I'm sorry about Henry, Fluttershy," Sunset went over and wrapped an arm around her. "There's still a chance him and Edward haven't left yet. Maybe they can still be saved." Twilight Sparkle went over to Fluttershy who couldn't stop whimpering. Fluttershy whipped away her tears but more kept pouring down her cheek. "Poor, H-Henry," She sniveled. "I just can't stop thinking about him. He must be so s-scared and worried. And a-all he wanted was be with mm-," Then she broke down crying again with her face buried in her palms. Twilight and Sunset tried comforting her the best they can. Gordon felt especially saddened. Seeing Fluttershy, and even Twilight still building up some tears, made him confess what went down. "This is all my fault. Twilight, Fluttershy, I was in front while we were being chased by the diesels. One came out from a branchline and derailed Henry, which then prevented Edward from escaping." Both girls listened, unsure how to feel until showing sympathy when Gordon continued reeling in his repentance. "I tried hurrying as fast as I always have. But they outmatched us in every way. I wasn't fast enough. And now… and now I might've lost my friends too." A small part in their sorrow wanted to point blame at whoever wronged them or the people they loved. But Twilight and Fluttershy, along with the rest of their friends, felt sorry for Gordon. Even Thomas, who stopped being mad at Gordon and felt the same. Rainbow Dash couldn't bare seeing Gordon so defeated. She then spotted something wrapped around Gordon's neck. It was the red, blue, and white ribboned track and field medal she gave him. Rainbow Dash approached Gordon and took the medal off around his neck. "Do you remember why I gave you this?" She asked, holding it in front of him. "You earned this medal because you were able to pass me in our race. Not a lot of people can do that." "But Gordon's not actually a person though," Percy said. "Exactly," Rainbow Dash continued. "Yet he still managed to run as one even when he could barely take two steps without eating mud." "Must you keep reminding me, Rainbow Dash?" Gordon grumbled. "I'll always keep reminding you," She fired back. "Cause if you hadn't learned from those few falls, you never would've gained the speed you always had! And no amount of enchanted diesels can ever take that away." Rainbow Dash tossed the medal back to Gordon. Stunned at first, Gordon then examined what the engraving read. 'Congratulations: Rainbow Dash. First place for Track and Field'. Flashbacks rifled through his head. The falling, the training, the failing, the improvements, the successes, and passing on what he learned to Scootaloo; how he showed that she can do anything no matter who or what you are. And she excelled all because Gordon learned and improved from his own setbacks. This impacted him the most, as he could hear Rainbow Dash's encouragement and teachings echo in his thoughts the more he stared at his medal. And from remembering this, a grateful Gordon beamed from side to side. Rainbow Dash could see this too, and shot him a an encouraging smile. Gordon went up and embraced Rainbow Dash with a hug, much to her embarrassment as everyone smiled and giggled. "Uh, he-he," She chuckled, patting his back. "Okay, Gordon. We get it. You can let go now." Gordon does, now beaming with high spirits again. Though things still looked bleak, Thomas and the others were at least all glad that Rainbow Dash was able to cheer up Gordon again. It was there upon sharing glances to one another that Rainbow Dash, Sunset, and the other girls made a decision, one that'll set them on a course they've never tackled in their lives since they started dealing with magic. Though the Girls knew they couldn't meddle with Sodor's affairs, Thomas and the others were still their friends. They knew above their own judgement that standing by and watching everyone in their home get tossed away was not an option. Twilight, Sunset and the others were determined to do something. Especially Sunset, who was the first to step up. "Even though you're not relevant in our world, or in yours, in fact, that doesn't mean we should just stand by and let the Siren roam free with all that power back at her disposal." "Agreed," Twilight Sparkle said. "Trends come and go, but our friendships will never be discarded, no matter what anyone has to say about our friends from Sodor." The girls all agreed and cheered, reassuring Thomas and the Engines once again. "So, does that mean," Toby was quickly interrupted. "WE'RE GOING TO THE ISLAND OF SODOR!" Pinkie Pie cheered, excitedly. The Engines were surprised at first. Were they really going to Sodor? The Girls haven't even been to Equestria yet. How where they suppose to traverse Sodor and take on a magical Siren? The Girls didn't seem to care too much though, as some of them shared looks in agreement, knowing that this was what had to be done. If they're to stop Adagio Dazzle from ruling their dimension and save their friends, it was a massive yet necessary step to take no matter what lingering angst began to brew. "Hold on a minute," Thomas asked. "Are you all actually gonna travel over to Sodor?" "How else are we gonna kick diesel butt?" Rainbow Dash boasted. "We're not gonna do anything from over here. So we gotta go there and show that Siren and Gisborne dude who's boss!" "When Can We Leave?!" Pinkie Pie pleated. "Can We Go Now! I Really, Really, Really, REEEEAAALLLYY Wanna Go!" "Wow! This is gonna be so exciting!" Thomas was just as excited. "Aw, I can't wait show you all our Railway!" "Sorry, Sugarcube," Applejack said. "Y'all are gonna have to hang back on this one." "Who said anything about staying back?" He argued. "It's too dangerous for us, Thomas," Percy said. "At least they'll have their magic rocks to protect themselves." "Maybe you should start heading out soon so you can rescue Edward and Henry on time," Emily said. "Right After We Get Over The Fact That We'll All Be Transformed Into Talking Choo-Choo Trains As Soon As We Enter The Magic Railroad!" Pinkie Pie mentioned. Although the thought of Edward and Henry being in trouble was still saddening, knowing all their friends agreed to travel to Sodor had put the Engines at ease once more. But Twilight Sparkle wasn't so sure about the idea of entering another world and became just as apprehensive over the notion. Entering Sodor felt a little complicated and jarring, but Twilight still wanted to try anything to save her friends, even when Pinkie's comment just occurred to her. "Oh, no! Pinkie's right. If we're gonna be dimension hopping to a train world, then," Twilight gasped. "I'm not prepared! How can we enter Sodor if none of us knows anything about locomotives!" "Hey, If Sunset can manage being a train just fine," Spike said, "Then it'll be a breeze for the rest of you." "We'll stick together all the way," Sunset guaranteed. "But let's worry about that later. We need to get going right away." "But first!" Rarity pulled out a wheeled clothing rack from nowhere. The rack had seven outfits on hangers wrapped in grey, garment cover bags. The Engines were curious and intrigued. She took off two bags and laid them on her left arm. "To accommodate our new stylish outfits, now seems like the perfect opportunity to introduce my very own line up of clothes I made for our Sodor friends!" "Wow, Rarity?!" Thomas said. "Did you really make new clothes for us?" "I did! After your last visit, I found a new inspiration I just simply couldn't ignore. So, I went ahead and whipped up a new wardrobe." She went up and handed a bag to Thomas and Percy. Then Rarity moved on and handed out bagged clothes to Toby, Gordon, and Emily, all either unsure or curious to see what she made. Sunset and the others smiled and rolled their eyes with some crossed their arms. "These styles may be a little plain to the common eye, but they've been sewn by yours truly to be exclusively distinctive. Something you'd think is often obtainable when really it's as unique and chic as any great fashion line up." Lastly, Rarity happily gave an eager James his bagged outfit. James could hardly wait to try it on. "Thanks, Rarity! And you're sure it's a splendid outfit?" "Not to worry, James. I took the liberty in making your ensemble was the most up to date. Ten times better than your last outfit I made, that's for sure." James and Rarity quivered in disgust, remembering the outfit Rarity originally made for James to wear. Thomas looked over to the clothing rack and saw two more clothes bagged in garment covers. They must've been for Edward and Henry. Thomas tried stifling his dismay and turned back to face his friends, hoping they didn't notice the two lone clothing sets either. He kept reminding himself, to avoid appearing upset, that Sunset and her friends will fix all this. Rarity giggled with excitement and turned to the other engines. "Now, let's get the boys changed into their new outfits." She rested her palm on Emily's arm. "Emily, darling, you're coming with me. I'm going to make you irresistible!" "Um, okay?" Emily had no idea what Rarity was getting into but went along with it anyway. Sunset and the Girls brought Thomas and his friends somewhere where they can change. The Engines and Girls regrouped near the band room entrance. Thomas and his friends were now sporting new outfits, which they continued marveling over how Rarity fashioned them in such a way that blends in with Canterlot, and yet still speaks to their interests. James especially was proud of his outfit, as he kept on showing it off to no end. Thomas wore a sky blue, light weight, Henley pullover hoodie with a red, three buttoned, collarless neckline, hood interior, and a yellow number one on the side chest. A plain white, polyester undershirt. Dark blue cargo pants with black patch pockets. And red shoes with white laces, soles, and heelcap. Percy had on a green, taped ringer shirt with a red train track pattern along the white shoulder tapes. A white baseball tee underneath with the red, visible raglan sleeves. Forest green, crosshatch, knee length shorts. And grey canvas sneakers with green lacings and the number six on the heelcaps. James' outfit consisted of a high quality, slim fitting, white t-shirt with a crimson number five graphic printed along the chest. A red, casual, short sleeved button-down shirt with two front pockets and shoulder straps. Simple, black skinny jeans, and high-top shoes with red belt buckles. Gordon fashioned a blue, V-neck sweater knit cardigan with black sleeves, white stripes across the chest, grey along the button hem and pockets. A prominent, sky blue number four stitched along the back. A white, light weight, buttoned undershirt. Stretch track denim pants with white, double twill taping down the side seam, and casual running shoes with red lacing. Toby wore a brown, lightweight cardigan with red toggle closures and a white number seven woven on the side shoulders. A tawny, crew neck pullover with some orange, windmill stitching pattern over a white, button down casual shirt. Dark grey cotton pants, and sandy brown, timberland boots. Toby still kept on his straw hat despite being given a new, dark grey beanie. The Girls admired their new attires. They all complemented and approved Rarity's seem work and how well they looked in them. Seeing the Engines in their new clothes, as well as their excitement, made Rarity giddy, even more so knowing this managed to brighten everyone's spirits again. "So, what do you all think?" "I like it!" Percy said. "Very comfortable!" Toby commented. "Marvelous work!" Gordon said. Each of the girls went up and examined their outfits some more. "You've really outdone yourself again, Rarity," Thomas said, examining himself. "These clothes are the best!" "They sure are," Sunset Shimmer commented. James blew his lips. "You all wish your clothes were as good as mine. Just look at me. I'm as splendid as I am back on Sodor." "But your clothes barely have anything red on it, James," Thomas said, cheekily. "I can only see red on that unbuttoned shirt and a bit on your shoes." "Rarity says this is the most stylish look right now." James continued posing, "And now it's even more stylish because I'm wearing it!" Nearly everyone rolled their eyes while smirking. Emily was eager to show off her new look to. "How about my outfit, everyone?" She asked. Everyone looked over to her. The Girls and especially the Engines were impressed by what they saw, as Emily stepped up to the group. Her emerald green hair was now styled in two, low pigtail buns held together with yellow hair ties. She wore a casual, long sleeved emerald top with a gold, lace up front shaped in a V-neck and a black camisole underneath. A dark green, pleated skater skirt with a chocolate colored blend beneath the pleats and gold lining along the hem. Red ankle high boots with chocolate colored welt and topline. Emily giggled and twirled until stopping to pose in her new outfit. "Pretty great, right?" "Wow, Emily," James said. "That actually doesn't look half bad." "You really think so?" Emily asked, a little embarrassed. "Not bad for something that isn't red, eh James?" Twilight commented. "Well, obviously not. But I suppose this style can work even for Emily." Emily slouched in annoyance. "Gee, thanks." Suddenly, walking down from the opposite end of the hallway, were three girls. One of them, Photo Finish, looks down the hallway and noticed the Engines and their new outfits. Photo Finish's voice caught almost everyone off guard. "Shtop! Hold that pose!" The next thing Thomas knew, Photo Finish was rushing over to inspect him from head to toe. Thomas had no idea what to think or who this girl was, who proceeded to spread and stretch his arms out." "Um, hello," Thomas said, politely. "Ja, ja! Ze style, ze blend, ze execution! Just what Photo Finish is looking for!" "Oh," Rarity felt complimented. "Why thank you. These are all my designs that I-" "Shtyle!" Photo Finish snapped her fingers. Her two assistance, Violet Blurr and Pixel Pizzaz, pulled out softbox lighting kits, blush brushes, and other equipment. The Girls were surprised at first. Thomas and the rest of his friends had no idea what was about to happen until Photo Finish whipped out her 3000mm lens camera, and began taking pictures of all the Engines. Pixal Pizzaz went up and added blush to Thomas' face while Violet Blurr held a softbox light over him. Photo Finish took many pictures of Thomas, who was still startled by her flashing camera. "That's it, That's it! You are a regular high skool student, minding his own high skool student business! Pay no attention to the flashing kamera and light sources boiling your pores!" Photo Finish then moved on to Gordon, Emily, Percy, Toby, and James, nearly blinding them with her camera's flashing lights. Her two-assistance touched up their faces and held soft boxes over them too. "Yes! No! Yes! No!" After a while, Thomas and the others quickly grew to enjoy having their photos taken. James was already on board with it all as soon as he saw the camera and professional equipment, and was looking forward to his turn. Pixal Pizzaz touched up his blush and brushed his medium length, wavy black hair before Photo Finish began taking his pictures next. He posed in various styles, reeling in all the attention and snap shots capturing every stance he took. The Girls just watched, smiling and snickering to themselves a little. "Now, all together!" Photo Finish instructed. The Engines shared a glance and shrugged. "Come, come, hurry while the inspiration is still in ze air!" Thomas and his friends gathered together in a big group in front of Photo Finish and her camera. The Engines posed and smiled, waiting for her to take a shot. But upon looking over and examining the Engines, the muse that swept Photo Finish minutes ago suddenly faded. "Dah! This is not perfection! Ze style is there, but ze kemistry, is not!" "What's a kemistry?" Percy asked. "I don't know, Percy," Thomas said. "Twilight, do you know anything about kemistry." "Only a lot," she bragged. "But I don't think that's what she means by chemistry." "I cannot work with this. I go!" Photo Finish then storms off with her chin to the air. Violet and Pixel pack up their equipment and follow her. James chased them down the hall until coming to a stop. "Wait!" James pleaded. "Come back! You haven't finished taking more pictures of me!" But the three girls paid no mind as they disappeared down the halls. James slouched, then angrily looks over at his friends with a pouty lip. Thomas and some of the engines smiled sheepishly while the Girls kept snickering. The Engines soon joined in, laughing about the sudden photo shoot they were dragged into in general. But as the excitement and tension faded, the Engines were now deciphering what Photo Finish meant by chemistry. The Girls and Engines left school and walked out onto the courtyard over to the Wondercolt Stature. But as they arrived and stood by the statue's base, Juniper Montage showed up and approached the group while waving. "Hi, guys!" She greeted. Sunset was almost shocked. The other girls were just as surprised. They haven't seen Juniper in a long time. Having never seen this girl before, the Engines didn't know what to make of her. But she seemed to know the Girls, and they knew her by looking at their expressions. "Juniper!" Sunset said, nervously. "W-what are you doing here?" "I asked my boss if I could have some time off. Now, I have the rest of the week to hang out with you and your friends. Isn't that great?!" "You did?!" Then, Juniper got a look at one of the engines, and curiously leaned over a bit to see who they were. Sunset wasn't sure if Juniper should know about Thomas and his friends, and signaled Twilight and the others to keep them a secret. Despite not knowing what the big deal was, the Girls agreed and stood by the engines to block them from Juniper's view. "Oh, I mean, that's great! I'm glad you finally found time to hang with us. Except, now's not really a good time. We've just made other plans to-" Sunset couldn't keep Junipers attention for long, however. Juniper looks over Sunset's shoulder and notices Thomas, wondering who she was and how Sunset seems to know her. "Who are they?" "Oh, them. Those are just some friends from out of town." "Is one of them that 'special friend' you told me about," Juniper teased, then went up to Thomas. "Looks like he decided to pay you a visit instead, Hmm?" All Sunset could do was watch nervously as Juniper approached and stood in front of a grinning Thomas, who was interested in meeting this new friend of Sunset. "So," Juniper smiled. "I take it your Sunset's long-distance friend? I'm Juniper Montage. Nice to meet you!" "Hi, Juniper!" Thomas greeted, kindly. "It's nice to meet you too. Are you a friend of Sunset's? How long have you known each other for?" "Just for a little bit," She said, trailing off. The more Thomas spoke, the more Juniper felt something familiar about him. At first, she wanted to ignore it and simply move on to meet the other people present. But as she inspected him up close, and the number one he bared, Juniper couldn't ignore her inclination. Why does this boy sound so recognizable? She didn't know what it was about him, but she had to know for sure. Before Thomas could introduce himself, Juniper decided to inquire her suspicions. "Oh, by the way-" "Wait… Say that again?" "Huh? Say what again?" "What you just said." "… 'Say what again'?" "No! The other thing. Say hello to me again." Thomas was confused. So were Sunset and the others, all looking at each other and scratching their heads. Thomas complied despite how odd this introduction was going so far. "Um. Hi, Juniper, it's nice to meet you?" Junipers eyes widened. "Thomas?" To Be Continued.