Derek and the Bully

"Derek and the Bully" is a story written by Loco123456.

Story
Steam and diesel engines are now more used to working with each other, although some may mutter that their type is better than the other. But if there is something that they can agree upon, is the fact that Diesel 10 is the scariest engine on the Island. Although the diesels work alongside him, they do secretly shudder at the thought of disappointing him. Because of this, it is thought that he has a high status among the engines. On the other hand, there are engines who aren't that popular, but still well known by the engines. Derek is one of these engines. He was being lowered back onto the rails. "Finally, I don't have to worry about my cooling system or my engine," he said cheerfully. The Dieselworks Foreman walked up. "I've received a message from the Fat Controller. You're to help make Kellsthrope Bend." Derek trundled proudly away.

But he arrived with a long line of empty trucks, his cheerfulness suddenly left him. "I see you're the center of attention now," sneered Diesel 10. "Just try to stay out of my way and you'll be fine." But Derek wanted to help; Diesel 10 was moving the blasted rock in front of the trucks so the line could be cleared to make the job go faster. Derek decided to slowly push the line of trucks forward. "What did I tell you not to do?" roared Diesel 10. "You better listen to me this time or you'll have it!" Derek stood idle until the trucks were full; the Foreman ordered him to take the trucks to Kellsthrope Road Goods Yard where they could then be taken to the Dump. While at the Goods Yard he refilled his fuel tank. When he returned with more trucks Diesel 10 was furious. "Now you'll get it!" "AAAAAH!" screamed Derek, racing quickly away. "I wouldn't do anything to you now," laughed Diesel 10, "the workmen are watching us. But when their lunch-break comes around, then you'll get it big time."

Derek delivered some more loaded trucks to the yard. He saw Murdoch dozing in the shed. "Murdoch, are you asleep?" "I was in the process of going to sleep; anyhow, what is it?" Derek explained everything. "I don't know really; it's difficult to stand up to an engine like that. But really, you shouldn't let him get the best of you." "If I hold my ground though, he'll hurt me." "Ah, but you'll be a strong engine by not letting him scare you and showing him that he can't push others around." Derek knew that Murdoch was right; he left feeling a little worried, but with a plan in mind.

When he returned with more empty trucks he decided to be helpful and move the trucks forward as they began to be fully loaded to make things easier for the big diesel. "That's it; I'm not waiting anymore. It's time to show you that no one messes with Diesel 10." "And no one messes with Derek," said Derek firmly. To Diesel 10, this was an insult. He moved back towards Derek's rear buffers. The workmen saw this and blocked Derek from Diesel's claw. "You're going to hurt anyone," said the Foreman sternly. "Go back to your shed at once!" That night the Fat Controller came to see him. "You'll be staying in your shed for a lnog time," he said as the fuel was drained from Diesel's tank to make sure he wouldn't escape. "And when you return to work, you'll find yourself at the Smelter's Yard, and you won't be allowed on the Main Line until you've proven yourself trustworthy." The Fat Controller drove away for home, but knowing Diesel 10, he could care less about his punishment.