T&EG2 Adventures From Sodor: Short Stories & Prologue
Author's Note
Prologue Pt. 1 Synopsis; Diesel and Paxton travel to Canterlot High through the Magic Railroad at the request of their new steam engine friend, who may or may not have meticulous intentions for their home; the Island of Sodor. Their job is to search for two associates of hers, but will distractions and encounters get in the way of their job?
1. Prologue Pt. 1
Adventures From Sodor
Short Stories!
Prologue Pt. 1
One afternoon on the Island of Sodor, Paxton the diesel shunter was on his way to the Quarry to shunt some trucks. He cheerfully rolled down the Mainline, often honking his horn at any engine passing by. Paxton is always friendly to everyone he meets; both steam and diesel alike. But he can also be gullible and naïve, and prone to getting himself into situations he's not comfortable with. He doesn't often like taking charge or being the one to make decisions for others. However, if a friend is in trouble, Paxton will still try to do what he thinks is right and help someone out. Even if its someone who may not like their company.
On his way, Paxton saw Sidney, a fellow diesel shunter, pulling some trucks up a head. He could hear Sidney singing a tune to himself, and wondered what for. Paxton rolled up next to him and blew his horn.
"Hello, Sidney!" He greeted. "Isn't this just a lovely day?"
"Hello, Paxton! It really is a beautiful day in deed."
"You sound extra cheerful today. What load have you got this time?"
"I'm glad you asked! This load is for… for uh… hmm."
Sidney being forgetful all the time is putting it mildly. He's always forgetting which job he has to do and ends up doing something else because of it. Paxton knew this, but unlike some of the other engines, it didn't bother him. Luckily for him, Paxton was one of the few engines Sidney didn't feel silly around because of his forgetfulness.
"What's the matter?" Paxton asked. "Did you forget something?"
"Oh, Paxton. I must've forgotten my Job again. That's why I was practicing my singing earlier, so I can remember my jobs through songs!"
"Really? I've never tried doing that before. Let's hear it. Maybe you'll remember it again."
Sidney paused. "Remember what?"
"Your job, silly," Paxton chuckled.
"Oh, right! It goes a little something like this."
He cleared his throat.
Sidney: "Ha, ha, ha. Ah he, he, he. A very special, uh?"
Sidney stopped and blanked on the next word. He though extra hard to remember what came after in his song. But he couldn't remember.
"Um… Aw, I forgot."
Paxton thought to himself next before speaking.
"Hmm. Maybe I can figure out what your job is."
He rolled back and examined the train of trucks coupled up behind Sidney. The trucks he was pulling were filled with slate stacked neatly on top of each other. Paxton recognized this load for sure.
"It looks like this lots meant to go to the docks, Sidney." He rolled back up next to Sidney. "You must've collected this slate from the Blue Mountain Quarry, and was told to deliver them for the ships to take."
"Blue Mountain Quarry slate to the Docks!" Sidney exclaimed, happily. "Of course! That must be my very important job. Thank you, Paxton. I really do appreciate your kindness."
"Well, of course, Sidney! Always happy to help out a friend."
The two diesels arrived at the Kirk Ronan Junction. Paxton passed a set of points directing him towards a branchline while Sidney continued on the Mainline.
"Got to go, Sidney," Paxton said with a happy honk of his horn. "And remember: Blue Mountain Slate to the Docks. Make it into a song so you won't forget."
"A song? Good idea, Paxton! I'll get started on it right away."
Sidney: "Ha, Ha, Ha. Ah, he, he… What was I just singing about?"
All Paxton could do was laugh as he continued down the line.
The tracks he took went on for a while until they led him to a line full of forestry trees on each side. Paxton rode down on one bend of tracks next to two more on his right. The area was strangely quiet, with only the cool, whimsical breeze occupying space. Branches and bright green leaves shaded the line from the bright sunlight beaming past the small blockage. Paxton didn't know where he was, but enjoyed the serenity the railway filled. He wanted to go back, however, and try to find a route that'll take him to the Quarry a lot quicker. But Paxton began feeling adventurous, and continued going.
It wasn't long until Paxton came across a siding, and in that siding he saw was none other than Devious Diesel.
Diesel was not a very friendly engine. He's known to cause all sorts of trouble for the Steam Engine's on Sir Topham Hatt's Railway, which makes it hard for anyone to get along with him. Diesel also lives by the motto of being rough and tough, especially to Trucks, which he often bashes and mistreats. But despite how hard it is to be friends with someone like Diesel, Paxton always enjoyed talking to Diesel and makes an effort every time to be friends with him whenever he can.
Happy to see his friend, Paxton applied his brakes and came to a stop next to the siding where Diesel remained parked.
"Hello, Diesel!"
But Diesel didn't look happy at all to see him, as he nearly jumped out of his pistons.
"Paxton!" He called. "You startled me!"
"I'm sorry, Diesel. I only stopped to ask how your day's going."
"Fine up until you showed up. Why are you even here?"
"I was just on my way to the Quarry. What are you doing in this neck of the woods?"
"Nothing," Diesel said, sternly.
But Paxton was too curious, and worried. It didn't look like any engine ever used this part of the branchine. So, what could Diesel be doing here?
"Nothing? Oh, no! Have you broken down?"
"No."
"Oh. Are you out of fuel again?"
"No!"
Paxton gasped then chuckled. "I know! You're waiting for an elf to give you presents, or, or, looking for a leprechaun's gold pot?"
"Don't be silly, Paxton. Just go away. I'm thinking."
"About what?"
Diesel moaned. It seemed he just couldn't get Paxton to leave.
"Adagio has sent me to fetch her two friends. Apparently, this siding is how she arrived here. Though I'm beginning to think she made it all up just to trick me, 'cause I don't see how any engine could arrive through this siding."
"Adagio?" Paxton pondered. "Isn't that the steam engine who's been living at the Dieselworks for some time?"
"Yes, Paxton," He said, irritably.
"Did she ever say why yet? We've seen Adagio come and go a lot but she won't tell anyone why she's on Sodor."
"All I know is that she has big plans for the Diesels. And as long as we go along with it, we'll be closer to seeing what she means by it."
"A big plan for the Diesels?" Paxton was excited over the possibilities. "Wow! That sounds big! Is there anything I help with?"
"You can always go away and leave me be," Diesel teased.
Paxton gasped, excitedly. "Maybe I can join you in looking for her friends too?!"
"Adagio didn't give you this job. She asked me to look for them and me alone! And she asked me to bring them back to Sodor from this siding."
Paxton looked at the old, withering buffers with a raised brow. They were old and covered in vines. The buffers themselves were rusted and the wooden beam had chipped splinters sticking out. It had not been used for a very long time.
"But, Diesel, how are you going to find them here? There's nothing but abandoned tracks leading to a set of old buffers. Maybe we ought to look somewhere else."
"You're not the one looking for them, Paxton. I am!"
"Ah, c'mon, Diesel. Let's figure it out together! Please!"
Paxton and Diesel heard faint twinkling noises. They sparkled and clattered like wind chimes echoing through out the forest and riding against the gentle breeze. It was almost soothing, but not for Diesel, who continued grumbling over the siding.
"Ugh," He exhaled in annoyance. "Why did she have to send me on this silly errand? She never could've arrived on Sodor through this siding. It's practically impossible."
Then Paxton thought of something cheeky, but theorised it in a way that sounded possible.
"Maybe there's a secret portal by those buffers; a secret portal that can take you to another world! And the only way to get in is by charging at them."
"Now you're just being ridiculous," Diesel said. "Just leave me be, Paxton. I'll figure this out on my own."
Frowning, Paxton blew his horn and reversed back sadly down the line he came.
He was disappointed for not being able to help Diesel. But as he kept rolling, Paxton gazed back at Diesel all by his lonesome. He stopped in his place and watched him trying to figure out the siding and its buffers to no avail. Paxton felt sorry for him. Despite Diesel wanting to find Adagio's friends alone, Paxton felt deep down in his radiator that Diesel couldn't achieve this by himself, and knew he would have a hard time learning where her home is. Diesel may not be the friendliest of engines, but Paxton wanted to be really useful and help his friend anyways. Paxton smiled with determination. He knew just what to do.
About to give up, Diesel then felt something bump into him and push him forward at a fast pace. He realized then that it was Paxton who bumped into him from behind, and was now pushing him directly towards the buffers
"Paxton!" Diesel yelled. "Stop! What are you doing?!"
"Seeing if this will work or not."
"But we're gonna crash!"
The two diesels sped closer and closer to the buffers. When suddenly, a spherical portal of gold materialized and whirled in front of the buffers, followed by signal lights blaring and train whistles blowing.
"Hold on tight, Diesel!" Paxton called. "This may get bumpy!"
Diesel could barely hear his own scream through the noise as he and Paxton went through and entered the golden portal, disappearing completely from the now empty siding in the willow forest.
Passing through the gold portal of sparkles, Diesel and Paxton came to a stop and frantically searched their surroundings. Diesel panted anxiously while Paxton felt just as completely misplaced.
"Wh-what happened?!" Diesel said, before noticing the change of land. "Where am I?!"
Paxton noticed the change of scenery as well and looked all over to see where they were. He inhaled slowly, enthralled by the huge space of land they were both in.
The land they were in was a mystical wonder. It had bright and beautiful landscapes that stretched far out in vast distances. The blooming grasslands glowed, the tall, snowy mountains carried a cool breeze all over, and lakes and ponds glistened in their own magical light against the warm, shiny sun. The tracks themselves were as bright as gold, and gleamed in it's sparkled covered glory. It looked almost like something out of a painting.
"Amazing!" Paxton said. "Are you seeing this, Diesel? It's like a whole other world it is!"
Diesel was still collecting himself. The opened air distances everywhere he looked was almost too much to take in.
"Paxton," He asked. "How did you know ramming us into the buffers would bring us here?"
"Actually, truth be told, I kinda… didn't," He chuckled, sheepishly.
"So, you were ready to cause an accident, is that it?!"
"Well, I thought if I believed hard enough, then, m-maybe an actual magic portal would open up."
"I was almost in an accident because of you!"
"I know," Paxton said, regretting his actions. "I'm terribly sorry, Diesel. But at least now we found that place Adagio told us to find."
"No, we haven't," Diesel grunted. "Not yet, at least. And she never told you to find anything!"
"Too late now," Paxton laughed. "'Cause now, we've found ourselves a new Railway to explore!"
Diesel continued searching the field, now intrigued by the large open whimsical space of grass after letting off some smoke from his engine. All this time, another railway line resided behind that old set of buffers. And all those talks amongst the steam engines about a magical plain of existence Diesel never believed in was now staring him right in the face. Now here Diesel and Paxton were, standing on the golden tracks of the Magic Railroad.
"So, this is how Adagio came to Sodor? I wonder where else this track leads too."
"Ah! Look at the tracks, Diesel. Pure Gold!"
Diesel scoffed. "Pure gold wouldn't be able to support us."
"Where do you propose we start looking first, Diesel?"
"They're not in this field, Paxton. Adagio's friends are in another place."
"There's another place beyond this?"
"Yes!" He said, impatiently. "Which means I must continue on and figure out where I need to go next."
"Oh! Well I ought to come along as well then. It's easy to get lost if you don't know where you're going."
"I know where I'm going!" Diesel said, insulted. "And I told you before, I don't need any help."
"But,"
"No buts! Go home, Paxton."
"What if you get lost? We don't know how big this place is."
Diesel laughed. "Me? Getting lost? I've never gotten lost. I know how to get around anywhere."
"But I wouldn't want you to turn up somewhere and not know how to get back."
"Right. And I suppose having you tag along will make me less lost then?"
Paxton smiled. "Well, sure it could! At least you wouldn't be alone."
Diesel groaned. He had enough of Paxton. But he did bring up a few good points. Diesel didn't know where he was going and was admittedly afraid of getting lost. There's no telling how long his search will take. He knew Paxton's persistence doesn't give up easily either. So, sending him away at this point, now that he knows about the magical railroad as well, wouldn't do much to benefit his search. He looked back at Paxton, blank in the face before beaming a cheerful smile.
"Fine," Diesel sighed. "You can come, Paxton."
Paxton inhaled with joy. "You mean it, Diesel?!"
"But you will do what I say when I say it throughout the whole trip. No dawdling about or getting us into more trouble. Got it?!"
"Oh, that's nothing. You can count on me, Diesel!"
"Highly doubtful," Diesel grumbled.
But Paxton payed no notice. He was too excited over their new environment and their journey a head.
"This will be so much fun; Like going on our very own adventure! I only wish we'd let Sir Topham Hatt know. Maybe we should,"
"Nope, nope, nope!" Diesel interrupted. "We are going straight to where Adagio said to go and that's that."
"Oh, okay then! Off we go, too adventure!"
Diesel groaned, already regretting his decision. But it seems the two diesels were in deed already headed for a trip where turning back now would've made this little escapade a waste of time. And so, blowing their horns, Diesel and Paxton set off down the golden tracks a head of them.
Paxton was having a hard time containing his excitement; not that he made a willful effort too. Everywhere he looked was beautiful and eye catching. Diesel found this rather annoying, especially having to listen to Paxton giggle and laugh at everything he spotted. Even at a flock of birds, which came soaring past the two diesels, particularly near Paxton. They seemed drawn to him, going back and froth from his left and right and chirping in a rhythmic harmony. Paxton continued chuckling over this while Diesel's left eye twitched.
Along the way, Diesel provided Paxton some detailed descriptions about the two people they're looking for. Adagio, a mysterious engine who came to their Dieselworks months ago, had asked Diesel to travel through the Magic Railroad to a place called Canterlot High, and locate two of her associates. The two girls were named Aria Blaze and Sonata Dusk. She requested that they be apart of her unveiling scheme for his world and any other beyond. But in truth, her claims of being from another world all just seemed silly to Diesel, even as she went on about a magic railroad and a portal that takes engines to wherever they can go. He had heard rumors about magic and other worlds, but thought it all as nothing but senseless fairy tales. Regardless, Diesel still went to check it out from a little help of Adagio's 'persuasion'. He would have barely gotten passed the Magic Buffers. But thanks to Paxton, Diesel was now much closer to completing this task.
"Say, Diesel," Paxton began. "Don't you think its rather odd that none of the diesels have hold Sir Topham Hatt about Adagio living at the Dieselworks?"
"Why would that be odd?" Diesel asked, suspiciously.
"All she did was show up one day, sung this beautiful song, and next thing we know, they're taking more orders from her than from Sir Topham Hatt."
"I wouldn't look into it too much. What matters is that she has a plan for us. For me especially. And so, we must do what she says in order for her to make it a reality."
"I see," Paxton pondered. "But, how will finding her two friends do that?"
Diesel actually knew more than he let on, but didn't want Paxton to know. He didn't seem entranced by the magic Adagio displayed when she first came to their Dieselworks; almost like it didn't affect him much. He was still the same friendly diesel he's always been. It wasn't just out of obedience either, which still played a big factor in his persistence due to Adagio's magic influence. Diesel saw something he can gain from her plan, and was willing to put up with all this magic nonsense to get what he wanted; Control over all the diesels.
"I don't have all the answers, Paxton. I only know as much as I've been told; That being to locate two girls. One with blue hair, another with purple, and bring them back to Sodor so Adagio can finally begin her plan."
"But I thought you didn't like steam engines. And now, you're taking orders from one?"
"That's enough, Paxton!" Diesel snapped. "If you're going to tag along, then you best do so by keeping quite and focus on the task at hand."
Paxton was a bit put off. Diesel acted very distant from him. But his distain towards Paxton seemed more amplified than normal. Regardless, Paxton obliged and said no more on the matter. He soon forgot about Diesel's typical rude behavior and went back to marvel at the grasslands, lakes, and large snowy mountains in the distance. The two diesels soon approached a set of switches that pointed left and right. Diesel kept on going and charged down the right path. Paxton stopped before the points and gazed with indecision down both track lanes.
"Uh, Diesel," He called. "Shouldn't we see where the left path goes as well?"
"You can if you want. I'm not wasting my time deciding which track to take. Right is the right path for me and that's all there is too it."
"But we'll be too far apart if we go our separate ways."
"Oh, Really? What a shame that'll be," Diesel said with a snide smile.
Paxton, not wanting to get lost himself, followed Diesel down the points leading him to the right.
"As I said before, I know where I'm going. And I say this track will take us right to where we want to be."
And so, the two diesels kept on rolling down the golden track for a good while. It as at this point Paxton realized he had no idea what Canterlot High was or why it was so far away from Sodor. There were a lot of questions stocked to the brim, such as why this railway's here and why it leads them to other places, but Paxton was more curious about where they were going the most.
"Um, Diesel," Paxton asked, innocently. "What's this Canterlot High place like anyways? It sounds important. Is it like a big, fancy school of sorts?"
He wasn't asking to be sassy, he really figured Diesel must know something he didn't about their destination. Diesel didn't know what a Canterlot High even was though. But thought up of something to trick Paxton into believing him. He began weaving his depiction in his same old oily, slithery, manner.
"Oh, uh. Well, I was told it's a very messy place, Paxton."
"It is?" He asked with an arched brow.
"That's right. It's also hard to see anything. And it's, uh, noisy. Probably smelly. Lots of rubbish just carelessly lying around and what not."
Paxton wasn't very impressed so far; just as Diesel hoped.
"There might be a lot of people there as well, upset people, with a dire illness!"
Paxton beamed again. "Oh, I love meeting new people! I cannot wait til we get there!"
"Its too bad we won't be talking to any of them though."
"We won't? Why not?"
Before Diesel could answer, he saw up ahead another set of buffers by the end of the line. He applied his brakes and came to a stop. Paxton did the same and ended up ramming into Diesel on accident.
"Sorry, Diesel! Why have we stopped?"
"It's the end of the line, Paxton. Nothing but more buffers. We'll have to go back and try that other track."
"Hmm. Now hold on a minute," Paxton thought. "If we got here through magic buffers, then perhaps we can get out with magic buffers!"
"I suppose its worth a try. But if I end up crashing because of you,"
Paxton laughed. "We won't crash, Diesel. You just gotta believe is all."
"A sound advice not at all really useful," Diesel mumbled.
"Right then, you go first," Paxton offered, gleefully. "And I'll hop in after you have!"
Rolling his eyes, Diesel honked his horn, expelled smoke, and charged towards the buffers. At first the golden spiral didn't appear, causing a weary to nearly slow down to a stop, until the portal built up more sparkles and spun in a twirling motion with train whistles and signal light blaring. Seeing this, Diesel built up his speed again and passed on through the golden spiral.
Paxton couldn't help but chuckle a bunch while witnessing Diesel disappear through the golden portal. It really was a sight to behold for him, and Paxton was enjoying every minute of his and Diesel's adventure.
He sighed, blissfully. "Ah, that's amazing."
Honking his horn, Paxton went and charged on after Diesel towards the buffers. Instantly, the gold portal opened for him and allowed a fanciful Paxton to seamlessly pass on over to the other side of the spiralling portal.
Next up; Part 2!
T&EG2 Adventures From Sodor: Short Stories & Prologue
Adventures From Sodor
Short Stories!
Prologue Pt. 2:
At first, there was nothing but darkness. Then, gradually opening his eyes, Paxton awoke with the sunny rays of the clear blue sky beaming down on him. The surface he laid on was rough and uncomfortable. But the blue skies easily put Paxton at ease. Diesel was close by, laying on his back while groaning wearily. He struggled to move at first but found that he couldn't. Weirder still, his face had an itch, which he gave a scratch at with his finger. Diesel stopped in the middle of his scratching and froze with complete shock.
Paxton leaned up and sat on his knees, not yet aware that his appearance was no longer that of a diesel shunter, but of something that will soon be entirely abnormal to them; A human. Eyes lidded, Paxton smacked his lips and scratched his head, then lets out a relaxing yawn while stretching his arms.
Freezing with his arms out, Paxton finally realized something off in his appearance, causing his eyes to widen. Perhaps it was the arms that he saw, posed with his fist clenched out. Or maybe it was from slowly but surly looking down at his appearance, and seeing only legs instead of his front buffers that gave away a prominent change in their bodies. Paxton's nerves shivered while examining his arms.
"Uh… D-Diesel?"
But no sooner before Paxton could speak that he heard the wailing cry of Diesel's terrified scream echo all around them. He too was now seated on his knees, petrified at the sight of his open palms.
"Diesel?"
He was in the middle of a panic, staring with widened eyes at his palms, and everything else on him too, which were just as human looking as Paxton.
"W-What's happened to me?!"
Feeling just as anxious, Paxton tried getting up on his feet, but found it more difficult to stand and balance himself than moving his arms or turning his head, which continued to alienate even him as he shuffled his way over to meet with Diesel.
Diesel lets out an unhinged chuckle. "This can't be real. It... it must be a dream! Yes! A dream. I'll just close my eyes and wake up at the Dieselworks, and everything will go back to how it was,"
But on way, Paxton lost his balance and ended up tumbling on top of Diesel, who screamed again right before Paxton fell and landed on him. Now more frustrated than afraid, Diesel fumed and shoved Paxton off. The impact felt all too real. This was no dream, much to his displeasure.
"Get off me, Paxton!"
Paxton sat on his bottom while Diesel made an attempt himself to stand, with just as much if little success. Right next to them was a large, crystal clear base of a statue; though there was no actual statue on top.
Diesel leaned against the statue base and looked over his now human appearance.
He had messy, black hair styled in a fohawk with a single red highlight and undercut shaved sides, green eyes, and light, persian bluish grey skin. He wore a multi pocketed, slim moto jacket, a black hoodie with red drawstrings, a black sleeveless shirt underneath, a pair of dark grey, skinny ripped jeans, and black, ankle length combat boots with red lace and silver sole.
Paxton did the same, becoming far more intrigued with his form the more he examined himself than Diesel.
He had dark green, curtained hair with center parting bangs and short sides, hazel eyes, dark orange eyebrows, and light, greenish gray skin. He wore a dark green, stand collar Jacket with two yellow square designs along the bicep and two on the abdomen, a black t-shirt, dark green pants and orange, tumbled leather boots with black laces and sole.
"What… am I?!" Diesel exclaimed.
"It looks like we're people now, Diesel," Paxton said, dangling and pulling on his fingers. "See. Hands, and feet and all."
"People?! Why are we people? Adagio never said this would happen. All she said was to expect a bit of a 'surprise' once I," Diesel then realized what she meant, and growled with anger.
"Are you alright, Diesel?" Paxton asked, a bit worried.
Diesel shuffled over to him.
"Do I look alright, Paxton?! We, are people now!"
Tripping on his footing, Diesel landed face first on the ground and just laid where he fell. Paxton was confused by the whole thing, even more so as he saw a two story, purple building in front of them.
The structure had many large and small glass windows on the first and second floor. There were golden gargoyles of horse heads stationed on the very top front. The front campus they stood in contained stairs leading up into the main entrance, the statue base was centered on concrete a walkway near a lawn of green grass, and a sign consisting of two horseshoes, with the center horseshoe placed on its side to resemble the letter C standing just at the sidewalk.
"You don't suppose this could be Canterlot High, do you Diesel?"
But Diesel wasn't listening, as he frantically crawled his way back over to the statue base. He stuck his hand inside the base's surface facing east and saw his left front buffer on the other side.
"Diesel? Where are you going?"
"I'm getting out of here!"
"But we haven't found Adagio's friends yet."
Diesel scoffed. "Who cares about Adagio and her silly friends? I'm not spending another second in this… This horrid body!" Diesel pointed to his appearance.
"We can't give up now, Diesel. Adagio's counting on us to invite her friends back to Sodor."
"Just tell her they weren't interested. She doesn't have to know."
"Wouldn't that'd be lying though?"
Diesel looked over his shoulder. "So, what?!"
"So? What about that big plan she has for the diesels? Adagio will be very upset if we don't return after at least asking if they'd like to join us. And what about her big plan for you? Don't you wanna know what it is?"
Diesel was speechless. "Ah, I-I… um."
The heat of the moment nearly made him forget all about it. Somehow, even if he did try and do so, Diesel knew Adagio would catch on to his little fib. And if that happens, she wouldn't award Diesel by putting him in control of the diesels. Diesel didn't know what to do now. He wanted to complete his job, but didn't like the idea of walking around in this weirdly colored world as a human.
Paxton stood up and tumbled a few times over towards Diesel.
"I'd like to be really useful and find her friends too, but I can't do that without you, Diesel."
"Well of course, you can't," Diesel boasted, then became hesitant. "But…"
Smiling with oblivious bliss, Paxton then reached out a hand for him to take, much to his bafflement.
"So, let's find Adagio's friends together."
Diesel was still baffled. If Paxton really knew what the big plan was, he highly doubted Paxton would still be on board with the task at hand. But Paxton looked more determined to help him out, despite not being friendly to him at all on their journey. Paxton was a fool for following him, but something about his usual willingness to lend a hand, something often irritating for Diesel, felt greatly needed in his situation.
Gingerly, Diesel pulled his arm out of the portal, and used it to grab Paxton's hand, as he helped Diesel up to his feet.
"How is none of this the least bit alarming to you?" Diesel asked.
"It was at first. But now I'm more curious to see what's inside this building."
The two diesels gazed at the purple building. Suddenly, a loud bell ringed for five seconds before stopping. Diesel and Paxton uncovered their ears, a motion still unsettling for Diesel.
"Oh!" Paxton exclaimed. "So, Canterlot High is a school after all!"
Diesel groaned with exhaustion. Him and Paxton were humans, and now they must traverse the halls of a school building, filled with many students the likes of which will likely make difficult to spot the people they're here for.
"Who knew our adventure would bring us to a new land to discover, eh Diesel?"
"Let's just get this over with."
"Right!"
Then Paxton began marching forward in an odd way. He extended a stiff leg out with each step he took while his swinging arms remained arched and fist enclosed. Diesel snickered to himself.
"What are you doing, Paxton?"
"I'm just walking the same way engineers at the Dieselworks walk."
Diesel let out a small laugh. "That's not how they walk."
Paxton stopped with a raised brow. "It isn't? Um, how do they walk?"
"Like this."
Not a step too soon did Diesel start tumbling over his footing again and wobbled around uncontrollably. He flailed and slipped passed Paxton, who couldn't help but laugh at his constant near plummets.
"Is that how people walk then, Diesel?"
Diesel smirked a little. "Better than how you did it, that's for sure."
Paxton laughed too. "Oh, that was nothing. Watch this."
He tried out different variations of walking and marching motions, all of which made him look just as silly as he wailed his arms and wiggled his legs. Diesel burst out in his nasally laugh while watching him approach the school in such a way.
"It's like you're walking on stilts!" Diesel teased. "Step aside and watch how its really done."
He admittedly enjoyed mimicking people, and tried catching up to Paxton by making up his own cycle. If there was any way to cope with his current appearance, then Diesel was happy to of found small enjoyment in the way they practiced their walking. The two diesels flailed their legs, wobbled, spun, and steadied their bodies in an effort to stand straight, often needing each other's support by leaning on a shoulder. Diesel and Paxton laughed this off and went on striding towards the school.
The two diesels entered Canterlot High, and were already overwhelmed by the large number of students filling up the main foyer. Cloth banners hung from the second-floor railings sporting the letter C and a few with a horse head on it. In front of them were another set of glass doors leading into a much larger area with long tables. Far ahead to their left and right were glass cases with trophies inside.
A multitude of multiple, brightly colored teenagers stood around, talked, and walked past each other. A lot of them where holding books, science projects, sporting equipment, and musical instruments the likes they've never seen. Diesel and Paxton looked all the more perplexed and intimidated by the large body of people and their unique style and coloration.
"You were right, Diesel," Paxton said, "these people do look quite ill."
Both diesels shared a concerned glance. This trip may be a lot more difficult than either thought. While at first the crowd of people swarming the foyer seemed never ending, no sooner did it start to settle down, allowing Paxton and Diesel to venture deeper. Paxton was more than excited to start exploring, and circled around while staring up at the second floor which can be seen from the main foyer.
"This place is huge!" Paxton said. "And look how many people there are. There must be a hundred rooms in this building!"
But Diesel was more concerned with bringing Aria and Sonata to Sodor, and didn't want Paxton to wonder off or get distracted by all the strange things they came across.
"Now remember, Paxton," Diesel began. "We're only here to look for two girls named Aria and Sonata. Not to sight see, not to make any friends, and not to mess about with things that aren't our business to get involved in."
"Okay, Diesel," Paxton said, sheepishly. "I get it."
"It's very important that you do. I shouldn't have to keep on reminding you to stay focused. No matter what; don't let anything new, or bright, or oddly colorful distract you from our job. Got it?"
"Got it! Let's start by asking around."
"No, no, no, Paxton. We can't talk to anyone here."
"Aw. But why not?"
"Because, we don't live in this world. And we aren't going to be staying long. So, talking to other people will be a waste of time."
"But how are we suppose to find Adagio's friends if we don't ask where they are?"
Diesel raised a finger out to protest, but stopped before he could talk and slowly lowered his arm and finger back down to his side. Perhaps Paxton was right. Maybe it's best if they did ask someone where they can find them. Even so, Diesel didn't want to speak to anyone, and he especially didn't want Paxton to be right yet again.
"We are doing this my way. And I say we look around the school until we run into them."
"I'm not sure that'll work, Diesel. Maybe its best if we have some idea of where we could find them, instead of just wondering around someplace we don't know,"
Eye twitching, Diesel then interrupts with a frustrated exhale.
"Alright, fine. We'll try it your way first."
Beaming, Paxton then looked around the foyer. He went up to the first teenager he saw and asked them where Aria and Sonata are. The teenager didn't know thought and just kept walking. The next teens Paxton went up to did the same. They didn't even give him an answer, only a shrug. The other group he tried asking from simply laughed at him. This made Paxton upset, as he slouched forward in defeat. All the while, Diesel enjoyed basking in this. Playing up his snide demeanor, both arms hid behind his back as he approached and stood in beside Paxton.
"So," He smirked, "how's asking for directions going?"
Paxton slouched. "Not very good."
"Now that your way's been done, lets move on to my way and actually look for those girls."
"Okay."
"Coming through!"
Scootaloo came zooming by on her scooter, nearly running into Diesel and Paxton who quickly evaded and swung out of the way on time. The three other girls, Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, rushed past the two diesels.
"Wait up, Scootaloo!" Sweetie Belle called.
"Yeah, wait for us," Apple Bloom called.
"Hey! Watch where you're going!" Diesel shouted while waving his fist.
"Do you girls know anyone named Aria or Sonata?" Paxton called. "Its really important that we... oh."
The three girls didn't hear them and continued running down the hallway to their right.
The two diesels found themselves wandering the hallways of Canterlot High. They passed by many teenagers, who were casually leaning against their lockers and talking to a friend or two. Both diesels were a bit thrown off by the coloration of everyone's appearance. Nobody on Sodor looked like the people they were seeing in this world. Despite their odd attire and appearance, Paxton was still fascinated by everything he came across. There was something about this new world and the school they're in that made it stand out in its own unique way.
Diesel found this annoying and grating, especially when Paxton kept stopping every minute after seeing something interesting. He had to drag Paxton or draw his attention away from a lot of things they encountered. A group of teens playing bongos and painting signs to promote their Eco club, a booth plastered with posters about an upcoming competition between Canterlot High and a rival school, and a marching band practicing in a music room. Diesel pulled the back collar of his jacket and dragged Paxton away from the gymnasium doors.
"That's enough, Paxton. We're not here to sight see. Is there a reason you keep forgetting that?"
"I'm Sorry, Diesel. I'm just excited is all. We've never been to this place before and I don't know if we'll get a chance to come back again."
"Which is hopefully never."
"What's that?"
"I said we need to keep a look out for the two girls, Paxton. There isn't any time," Diesel murmured to himself before speaking again, "or interest, to explore this silly school."
"Oh, come on, Diesel," He said, cheerfully, "This is supposed to be an adventure! Why not squeeze in a little exploration while we're out and about?"
"I'd much rather get the job done and go home, thank you very much."
"By the way," Paxton began after monitoring the halls. "What do these girls look like again?"
"One has blue hair and the other purple. Weren't you listening at all to how I described them?"
"I was, but…"
Paxton inspected some of the students as they kept walking. A lot of teens they saw had purple and blue hair, but none of them were together or fitted Adagio's provided description. As simple as finding two girls with blue and purple hair sounded, the abundance of different colored attire and hairstyles made it ironically more difficult and intimidating for them to differentiate than identify right away.
"It may not be the best hint for us."
"What would you do then; go back to asking where they are?"
"Well…"
"Behold!"
Blocking their path was a poster shoved right in front of their faces. Surprised, the two diesels stopped in their place.
"Canterlot High School's greatest and most powerfuliest student in her most daring, awe inspiring performance ever seen!"
Paxton looked interested as he checked out the poster.
"Ohhh!"
It had a girl with purple eyes, long, light blue and white hair with a star barrette, and pale blue skin. She wore a purple dress and blue hoodie, and stood in a cloud of smoke with a stream of playing cards flying all around her, and the above headline for the event included a magician's hat with a wand tapping the brim.
The poster was pulled away to reveal the same girl from the picture holding them, instead now she also wore a purple wizards' hat and cape with different sized blue and yellow stars along with a cyan gem at the cape's collar. She began waving posters in front of other students who stood and listened to her promote what Diesel and Paxton assumed must be a magic show.
"Never has a high school bared witnessed the most amazing, stunning, show stopping spectacle in all its years under the great and powerful Trixie's reign of magic!"
"Magic? In all its years?" Paxton said, surprised. "Whoa. Now that sounds like quite a lot."
Diesel crossed his arms while staring with lidded eyes at Paxton. He wasn't impressed by Trixie or her magic show one bit. And from the looks of other students, neither did they.
"The very tricks performed for this Friday's premier are said to blow away even the most skeptic of disbelievers, as the great and powerful Trrrixie plans to deliver the biggest show of my career!"
But as she continued talking, the other teens listening simply yawned and began walking away. Some even chuckled to themselves while others commented on how unlikely Trixie's show will turn out, offhandedly mentioning her last big performance being a huge let down. Disappointed but still proud, Trixie turned and leaned in close to Diesel and Paxton.
"Tickets are on sale now. No refunds, questions, or take backs. And to the lucky patrons who stay till the end, the great and powerful Trixie will award them a prized souvenir as a reminder of their visit to Trixie's magic extravaganza!"
Paxton was giddy. He loved the premise she displayed and wanted to see her show as soon as he can. But Diesel, on the other hand, was not. After baring nothing but a skeptical, unamused expression throughout the whole promotion, Diesel smirked a devious grin and began his mocking.
"Oh, so what are you suppose to be; some kind of 'magical magician'?"
He then started laughing, much to Trixie's embarrassment. Paxton could see this and tried to say something.
"Um, Diesel,"
"No, no, let me guess." Diesel tried hard not burst out just yet. "You're going to pull a rabbit out of that hat?"
Diesel kept on laughing just as loud in his nasally chortle. Paxton didn't laugh, however. He felt bad, especially after looking back at Trixie. She was truly insulted, as she gritted her teeth and growled in frustration.
"How dare you mock the Great and Powerful,"
But Diesel's nasally laugh only interrupted her more. Trixie sneered.
"I demand more respect than this laughable display."
"I respect you, Trixie," Paxton commented.
"Sorry, 'great and powerful'," He teased. "As much as I'd like to stay and chat about magic shows, Paxton and I must be on our way."
Diesel slowly walked along while passing a fuming Trixie.
"Important business to attend to; not that you'd know anything of the like."
"You will regret speaking to Trixie in this manner. I've got tricks up my sleeve the likes of which you've never seen!"
"And I'll have you know I'm full of surprises," Diesel gloated, stopping to look over his shoulder. "Too bad the same can't be said about your act."
Trixie thought she was about to implode with rage. Paxton reluctantly followed Diesel with hunched shoulders while Trixie glared at the two of them leaving.
"Come, Paxton. We're already behind as it is."
"Sorry, Trixie," Paxton said, looking back at her. "Good luck with your magic show."
Paxton then caught up with Diesel as the two made their way down the hallway.
"That wasn't very nice, Diesel. I think you really hurt Trixie's feelings there."
Diesel only rolled his eyes and ignored Paxton.
"Her magic show could've been amazing."
"Paxton, she doesn't actually know magic. They're just a bunch of silly parlor tricks."
"You don't know that. This world could have all sorts of magic. Why else would we be connected to that magic railway then?"
"Hah! The only thing magical about this place is whatever they put in the water," He said, spotting some students walking by.
Paxton didn't want to admit it, but he was getting fed up with Diesel. He tried being polite still but felt his patience warring thin.
"Well, that doesn't sound reasonable! If Sodor can have its own kind of magic, then why can't this place have any?"
Diesel remained adamant.
"I would argue that the railway we traveled through isn't apart of Sodor in anyway. There isn't anything magical about our world, and simply being connected to one that is doesn't count in the slightest."
"So, you're just saying that the Magic Railroad exists as its own separate land?"
"Precisely. And very much like our world, there is no magic in this one."
The two diesels found themselves back in the main lobby where the entrance is located. Paxton had his arms crossed as he glared at Diesel.
"So, quit listening to her silly claims and,"
But as they entered the foyer, Diesel and Paxton heard upbeat music coming from the set of glass doors on the opposite side of the entrance. The noise was faint behind the doors, but it was still loud enough for them to inspect what's making such a noise. They could just barely hear singing on top of the music as well.
"Dohhh! What's all the racket now?" Diesel asked.
Pinkie Pie: "Hey, hey hands up now!"
"We're sending a message to the crowd!"
"I think its music, Diesel," Paxton said, perking up again.
He crossed his arms. "That hardly sounds like any type of music I'd hear."
"Let's go check it out."
"Wait, Paxton!"
But Paxton didn't wait, he eagerly ran towards the doors with Diesel chasing after him.
Paxton entered the Cafeteria, one of the largest areas in the school. The area contained a number of tables to seat groups of students, which the cafeteria was nearly filled to the brink with. Diesel entered next to find Paxton taking in all the excitement spreading across from student to student. Everyone was free-styling to the song playing. Some were spread out and danced from all corners of the Cafeteria, while a large body of teens gathered near the center where the music came from.
Paxton and Diesel made their way past the dancing students to see who the singers where. The teens that kicked off this prep rally were none other than Twilight Sparkle and her friends. Rainbow Dash, Fluttershy, Applejack, Pinkie Pie and Rarity, all wore blue sweaters with a yellow P on the front, and wore pony ears and tails wrapped around their waist that bared the school's blue, yellow, and white color scheme.
The two diesel's eyes widened.
"Look at that, Diesel," Paxton pointed, excitedly. "They're singing!"
"No kidding," Diesel said unamused with his arms crossed.
Equestria Girls: "So, get up get down,"
"If you're gonna come around."
Paxton looked around at all the teens having fun cheering and dancing to the song. He wanted to be apart of the fun too, and began unknowingly shifting his body a little to the rhythm of the song. Diesel was not a fan at all.
"Ah, can this school get any better or what?! I wonder what they could be singing about."
"Hrm. Singing in School," Diesel pouted with crossed arms. "Shouldn't these people be doing more important things than breaking out into song?"
Paxton noticed the girls getting into a new formation. Rainbow Dash was in the middle while Twilight, Fluttershy, and Rarity gathered to her right, and Pinkie Pie and Applejack gathered to her left. Both diesels didn't know what they were doing next, but out of the two, Diesel wasn't impressed or drawn in like Paxton was.
"Oh, what's this there doing now?" Paxton asked.
[The girls got into formation and kicked off their musical number with another routine. The song started small, with only everyone's rhythmic clapping echoing through the Cafeteria to provide background music. The girls jumped, shuffled their arms, stomped their feet, and spun in a rapid motion.]
Equestria Girls: "Jump up make a sound (Hey!)."
"Stomp your hooves turn around."
"Start now, make a change,"
"Gonna come around."
[The girls then appeared before Paxton and Diesel. Rainbow Dash and Rarity leaned in close to Paxton while Fluttershy wrapped a pony tail around his waist. The same happened with Diesel, as Pinkie Pie and Twilight leaned in close while Applejack tied a pony tail to his waist also.
Paxton looked curiously at Rarity, who rested her hand on his shoulder. Diesel, more annoyed than curious, arched a brow at Twilight, who continued smiling even though Diesel though his grimace would put her off. The two diesels then felt pony eared headbands being placed on their heads by Fluttershy and Applejack.]
Equestria Girls: "Jump up make a sound (Hey!)."
[The girls clapped their hands some more as they went back to the center. Paxton couldn't contain his enjoyment any longer, but a steaming Diesel was already done with this party and wanted to leave.]
"Stomp your hooves turn around."
[As the girls made it back to the middle, the song picks up again and sends everyone, including Paxton, into another raving rally.]
"Canterlot Wondercolts,"
"Off to win the crown!"
[The Cafeteria was nothing but a field of dancing, cheering, and proud students. A boy named Flash Sentry had his guitar on him, and strummed a few riffs to liven up the song even more than it already was. The girls continued their new routine with a few people joining in.]
All Students: "Jump up make a sound (Hey!)."
"Stomp your hooves turn around."
"Start now, make a change,"
"Gonna come around!"
[The Girls jump into the air while Rainbow Dash proudly stood with hands on her waist. Pinkie, Fluttershy, and Applejack then lean in next to her on one side, and Twilight and Rarity poke in from the other.]
All Students: "Jump up make a sound (Hey!)"
[Diesel took off his pony ears and tail while staring sharply back at Paxton, who was dancing in a horse-riding type style. His right leg stomped, then his left, then his right, all while happily swinging his wrist in the air.]
"Stomp your hooves turn around."
[But Diesel, fed up with all this, swiped the pony ears off Paxton's head while giving him a mean glare, indicating his desire to continue their search. He turned his back and headed towards the exit.]
"Canterlot Wondercolts,"
"Off to win the crown!"
[Paxton was sad and didn't want to leave just yet, but complied anyways. A wistful Paxton looked back at the six girls still dancing to their upbeat song while leaving to exit the Cafeteria with Diesel.]
All Students: "Jump up make a sound (Hey!)."
"Stomp your hooves turn around."
"Start now, make a change,"
"Gonna come around."
Exiting the Cafeteria, Diesel found the nearest trash bin and stuffed their pony ears and tails inside. A dejected Paxton could only stand by and watch. Diesel turned angrily back to face him, becoming nervous at the sight of his grimace.
"Let's make this perfectly clear, Paxton. From here on out; no more stopping for school dance parties, magic shows, eco clubs, or music practices. And above all," Diesel lurched closer and closer to Paxton. "NO, MORE, NONSENSE!"
He leaned back to wait for a response from Paxton, who solemnly hugged his arm and darted at the ground before closing his eyes.
"Yes, Diesel. I understand; no more… nonsense."
Diesel tired to relax, but Paxton's curiosity throughout their job was getting on his nerves. But he managed to remain at ease.
"Now, lets find those two girls so we can finally leave Canter-rot High all together." Diesel stormed off in an angry march. "I've already had just about enough of this school as is."
Paxton took one last, saddened glimpse at their pony ears and tails dangling out from the trash big before catching up with Diesel again.
And so, the two Diesel continued their search. With everyone drawn to the excitement going on in the Cafeteria, the diesels wondered if finding Aria and Sonata will be easier to do too. Especially Paxton, who not only wanted to go back and enjoy the fun again, but also check if Aria and Sonata could've been amongst the crowd of people. But he knew now at this point that Diesel wouldn't like anything that involved engaging with the school or its students. Poor Paxton was having a hard time reaching out to Diesel. He was not enjoying their trip as much as he was, and this made Paxton upset for Diesel.
But as usual, Paxton soon forgot to be upset, as the cafeteria song kept playing in his head, causing Paxton to hum the lyrics. Diesel didn't like this but was too impatient, and too focused on finding Adagio's friends to say anything. The sooner they finish their job the better for him. All they had to do was hope the girls they're looking for really were somewhere in another part of the school instead of the Cafeteria.
Thinking about the song still, Paxton asked Diesel a question in the middle of his humming.
"Say, Diesel," Paxton asked, "do you know what hooves are?"
Next up; Part 3!
