The Midnight Train Crossing

Krupp watched them leave. He sulked alone for awhile before deciding to head to the roundhouse.

Rossi was sitting on the porch outside the Roundhouse, humming to herself and playing with one of her dolls
Krupp stopped when he saw her.
Rossi looked up and grinned, "HI!" she said, putting her doll down and running over to him
"Hi Rossi."
Rossi stopped and remembered the mean engine as she looked down at her skates, "did you get in trouble?" she asked
"I'll be okay."
"it was my fault, i wrecked the game," she muttered, still looking at her skates
"No," he said, "I never would've gotten as far as I did without your help."
Rossi looked up, her eyes were upset, "really?"
He nodded, "Without your help, I never would've gotten the food."

Rossi smiled, "you wanna play?" she asked, going back to the porch and picking up her doll.
"Um...what?"
"Well we were playing before, you wanna play again?"
"We're not playing that game anymore..." he started.
Rossi smiled, "i know, you wanna play another? You're a lot of fun to play with!"
"I am?"
Rossi nodded
"I've... nobody's ever told me that before..." he said.
"really?? That's not very nice"
"Not really," he said, "I haven't done a lot of "playing."
"Oh, I couldn't tell," she said
He smiled at her.

"So... do you wanna play? Everyone else is doing stuff,"
"Sure... I guess..." he said, "I've got nothing to do."
Rossi grinned, "you wanna play house?" she went over to where some of her other dolls were laying on the porch
He blinked, "You want me to play...house?"
Rossi's grin faded a bit, "Unless you don't want to,"
"Um...I never have before..."
"OH!" Rossi said, grinning, "I've never played with another person, everyone's been too busy, but it's a lot of fun!"
"okay..." he said slowly. Sure, why not?

Rossi picked up a teddy bear, "here, you can play him!" she said, passing it to Krupp.
"Umm... okay..."
"And I'll play her," she said, holding up the doll she'd origionally played with.

Krupp nodded and looked at the bear, then he set it's feet down and 'walked' it over to Rossi's doll.
Rossi grinned and made her doll 'curtsey' "Hello," she said as the doll's voice.
"Hi there," Krupp said, talking for the bear, but not changing his voice.
"What's you're name?"
"Um..." he looked at the bear, "Ralph."
"I'm Sarah, you wanna play?"
"Sure Sarah."
Rossi giggled and moved her doll to Krupp's, "tag, you're it!" she said and moved her doll away quickly.
Krupp smiled and moved the bear over towards Rossi's doll.
Rossi giggled as she tried to move the doll away
"Gotcha!" the "bear" said, tagging her doll.
Rossi giggled, "now i'm gonna catch you," she said, trying to move her doll after the bear.

Rossi's laugh was answered by another high pitched giggle.
Rossi looked up, "CB!!" she said, scrambling to her wheels and running to give him a hug.
"Hi Rossi," he said, hugging her. Then he looked around, "well... this is intersting."
"Quiet Caboose," Krupp ordered.
Rossi grinned, " you wanna play too?"
"yeah Caboose," Krupp agreed, "I bet Rossi'd love to play with you."
Rossi grinned at Krupp and CB, "we can have a tea party!" she said happily
The two cars looked at each other.
"you'd better not..." Krupp started.
"As long as you don't," CB agreed.
"Deal." Krupp said.
They turned back to Rossi,
"Okay."
"Sure."
Rossi grinned, "yay!" she said bouncing around.
CB sat down next to Rossi.

Rossi went to her toys on the porch and picked up some slightly chipped or broken dishes she'd been given by Dinah and set them down in front of each of the bigger cars.
Krupp looked at the dishes a bit oddly.
CB held back a giggle.
Rossi frowned slightly, "they're a bit small for you," she admitted.
"That's okay," he said quickly, "I've just never had a tea party before..."
"bet not!" CB said.
"Well how many have YOU had?" Krupp asked.
CB didn't have an answer for that one.

Rossi smiled, then made a face as her stomach made a hungry noise.
The two cars both looked up.
Rossi grinned shyly, "i'm a bit hungry," she admitted
"Maybe we should go ask Buffy or Dinah for some food for our party," CB suggested with a sly look at Krupp.
Rossi grinned, "yeah! that'd be great!" she said getting up
CB headed over to the door.
Rossi followed happily behind him
Krupp hesitated, and then decided to stay put.

CB started into the house, and then stopped to let Rusty pass.
Rossi grinned up at Rusty, "hello!" she said
"Hi Rossi," he greeted her warmly, in a good mood now that his arm was healed.
"Feeling better?" Rossi giggled as she looked between CB and Rusty, excited about the tea party
Rusty nodded, showing her his arm.
Rossi looked at it and grinned, "we're going to get food for a tea party!" she said excitedly.
"A tea party?" Rusty asked.
Rossi nodded
"With you?" Rusty asked CB.
Rossi giggled and looked up at CB
"Yeah," CB said, "What's it to ya?"
Rusty shrugged and smiled.
"Perhaps you'd like to play too?" CB asked.
Rossi looked up at Rusty hopefully, "would you? please?? it'd be so much fun!"
"well..." Rusty started.
"Please?" Rossie begged.
"I...I guess..." Rusty said finally.
Rossi bounced and clapped her hands excitedly, "YAY!"
CB smirked.

"Let's go get food then," Rusty said, offering his couplings to Rossi.
Rossi giggled again and took his couplings, "I wonder if Binah and Buffy wanna come along too?"
"Probably," Rusty said, "we can ask them." He pulled her towards the kitchen, leaving CB to walk on his own.
Rossi smiled back at CB, "C'mon, you guys can ask too!" she called to both Krupp and CB

Rusty pulled Rossi into the kitchen, where, as usual, Buffy greeted Rossi with a smile.
DInah turned around, "hey you, what'cha up to today?"
Rossi grinned, " A tea party!"
"really?" Buffy asked with a smile at Rusty, who blushed just a bit.
Dinah gave Rossi a look, "A tea party like the last two picnics you had? I heard about you snitching food for Krupp," she said lightly.
Rossi looked down, "No, this one's real, Krupp, CB, and Rusty are having a tea party with me!" she said, looking up, "you can come too if you want!"
"Rossi, Rusty, CB and Krupp?" Buffy repeated, "Might be interesting."
Dinah giggled, "very interesting, maybe we should go just to keep the peace,"
Rossi went over and got up on her stool, reaching for the cookie jar, knowing they'd need a lot of them today.
Buffy nodded, "We'll come."
Dinah nodded, as Rossi bounced on her stool giving a squeal and nearly losing her balance.

"Careful!" Rusty said, catching her before she fell.
Rossi grinned up at him, "i'm ok!"
Dinah laughed, "so," she turned to Buffy, "what should we make for this tea party?"
"Well... since it'll be outside, we should probably make it a picnic tea party..."
Dinah nodded, "of course," she said.
Buffy went to work.

Rusty looked at Rossi, "Who else should we invite?"
Rossi thought for a minute, "well, Poppa!" she said, "and my sisters and brother, if they're around somewhere,"
"How about Ashley, Pearl, and Belle?" he asked.
Rossi nodded, "YEAH!" she said, bouncing again.
Rusty grinned, "Should we go find them then?"
Dinah giggled, "wow, that's a large picnic, but i'm sure we can manage"
Rossi nodded, "yeah!" she said, hopping off the stool.
"Of course you can manage," Rusty said to the two food cars.
Dinah grinned, "go on and gather everyone, we'll bring out the food in a bit when it's ready"
Rusty nodded, "C'mon Rossi."
Rossi grinned and took Rusty's couplings, "Ready!"

Rusty sped out of the kitchen.
Rossi looked around, "I dunno where they'd be," she said
"Well I'll find Poppa," Rusty said, he looked back at Rossi, "Cover your ears?"
Rossi nodded, "ok" she let go of the couplings and stuck her fingers in her ears
Rusty let out a loud whistle.

Talck looked up from the couch in his room, where he was still laying after the fight with CB. He sighed as he heard the whistle, then lay back down, realizing it was for Poppa.
Belle opened the door, coming into check on Talck.
Talck looked over at her, giving her a small smile, "hey," he muttered
"How're you feeling?" she asked, coming over and setting a hand on his forhead.
Talck sighed, "sore and stupid,"
She smiled, "at least you've still got your sense of humor," she looked thoughtful as she felt his forhead, "Good," she said softly, "you're warm again."
Talck nodded, "I'm sorry Belle, I'm not usually like that, I've been bullied all my life, and it's not an excuse, just, I've had enough...."
She nodded, "I understand Talck, really I do."
Talck looked up at her, "thanks," he said.
"Did you want anything?" she asked.
Talck smiled, "just a drink of water, my boiler's getting a bit low," he murmered.
She nodded, "Of course."

"thanks again Belle, you're too good to me after what I've done,"
She shook her head slightly, "Just because you made a few bad decissions, doesn't mean that you aren't still worth taking care of."
Talck smiled at her again, "you have a very different idea of how things are done than my old yard," he said.
"Talck," she said in mock-sternness, "You are at your new trainyard now."
Talck laughed slightly, the coughed and groaned, "still a little tender to be laughing," he said
"Just take it easy," Belle said.
Talck nodded, "I will," he said.
"I'll get you some water," she said, going back to the door.
"Thanks"
Belle left, closing the door tightly behind her. Not that she really needed to, she knew that Talck would stay put, but still...
Talck sighed and closed his eyes

Poppa whistled back in response to Rusty.
Rossi unplugged her ear's, "your whistle's even louder than Talck's!" she said amazed.
Rusty smiled, "Thanks..."

After a few minutes Poppa came over towards them.
Rossi grinned at Poppa, barely able to keep still.
"You wanna tell him?" Rusty asked.
"Tell me what?" Poppa asked.
"we're having a picnic and want you to come!"
"A picnic?" Poppa repeated.
Rossi nodded, "And lotsa people are coming!"
"Then I'll be there," Poppa said.
Rossi bounced some more, rushing over and giving poppa a hug.
Poppa hugged her back, "Thanks for inviting me."
"Welcome!" Rossi said, grinning like a cheshire cat

Meanwhile, CB was looking for other cars to invite.
Imbrri and Xanni were in the common room when they heard a whistle. They both looked up, but Imbrri shook her head, "wasn't him," she said, slightly upset.
Xanni looked around and noticed CB come into the room, she flashed him a smile
"Hi," CB said, "I've been looking for you two..."
Xanni smiled, "really."
Imbrri didn't seem impressed, "oh?"
He nodded, "Your little sister requests your presence at a picnic."
Imbrri looked up, "A picnic?" she asked.
Xanni grinned, " Sounds like fun!"
CB nodded, "Out front."
Imbrri didn't seem to trust him too much, "how do we know--"
"oh c'mon imbrri, it's for Rossi," Xanni cut off her sister, grinning at CB, "we'll be there in a second," she said.
CB nodded, "Have you seen Ashley or Pearl?"
Imbrri shook her head, "sorry."
Xanni giggled, "if you find Ashley you'll most likely find our brother, I think I saw them behind the house," she said, "as for Pearl, who knows, I haven't seen her in while"
CB nodded and headed off to find Ashley and Dinni.

Imbrri looked at Xanni, "you sure about this?"
Xanni shrugged, "it was Rossi's idea!"
Imbrri rolled her eyes, "if that caboose asked you to do anything you would," she said, referring to CB.
"and the problem with that is??" Xanni asked heading out front.

Krupp looked up upon seeing two cars come out.
Xanni stopped for a second, a bit nervous, then continued out front.
Imbrri looked at Krupp, then noticed none of his train was about.
Xanni went up to him, "so is this where the picnic is?" she asked
He nodded.

Imbrri gave him a small smile, noticing Rossi's toys on the porch.
"Yeah, she was out here..."
Imbrri's smile grew, "and she suckered you into playing?"
"well..." he started, a bit emabaressed.
"don't worry, she does it with us as well," she said, "she didn't have anyone to play with at the old yard," Xanni sat down on the porch as Imbrri gathered up the toys.
"Ah-" he said, not sure what else to say.
Xanni looked at Krupp, "I'm surprised she got you to play," she said
"Oh?" he asked, pretending that he didn't understand her.
"You just look the type who wouldn't be caught dead playing with a trainlet,"
Krupp froze and tensed slightly. "Oh."
Xanni shrugged, "but i was just guessing that based on the trains and cars at the old yard," she said, "i've had more surprises in the short time we've been here than I've had in my life"
Krupp nodded.
Imbrri gave her sister a look to shut her up, but knew it probably wouldn't work

Krupp shrugged and returned to helping clean up Rossi's toys.
Imbrri gave him a smile, "thanks,"
He nodded.
"I'm sorry," Krupp said, "But I don't know your names..."
Xanni grinned, "I'm Xanni, and that's Imbrri, we're Rossi's older sisters"
He nodded, "I'm Krupp. E-" he cut himself off, "My name is Krupp."
Xanni nodded and smiled.
Krupp slowly smiled back.

"So how'd you get hooked up with our hyperactive bundle of sugar?" Xanni asked
"Long story..." he said.
Imbrri smiled, "they all are," she said, "any thing that involves Rossi seems to take a very long time to explain"
Krupp nodded, "I bet."

"so why exactly are you out here and not with that bunch of stone faced--- "
"XANNI!!" Imbrri cut her sister off.
"What??" Xanni asked.
Imbrri glared at her.
Krupp blinked, "I... uh..."
Imbrri looked at him, "you don't have to answer if you don't want to," she gave Xanni another glare.
Xanni shrugged, "Hey it was an innocent question!"
"I'm just not."
Imbrri nodded.
"I have some... time...off," he said.
Xanni frowned, " oh yeah.. been there done that," she muttered
"Yeah, I've not had a vacation since... I can't remember when."
Imbrri looked at him, her eyes filled with sympathy.
He looked down, "Yeah."

Imbrri finished putting the toys away and smiled at him, "well, we can help you take your mind off it, we've got a picnic to attend,"
"I know," he said with a smile.
Xanni hopped up, "well first things first, we can find the perfect spot to have it!" she said grinning
Krupp nodded, "I guess that there'll be a lot of trains at it...?"
Imbrri laughed "knowing Rossi, she'd bring everyone she could find,"
"D'you think... would she bring Poppa?"
Xanni nodded, "almost a definite, if she could find him, she really likes the old guy"
"Oh," Krupp looked concerned for half a second, but it quickly vanished.
Imbrri smiled, "and since there will be over half the trainyard here, we should find some place with a lot of room,"

Krupp nodded, "There's a lot of empty space over there," he pointed to a not-so-distant green hill.
Xanni looked over, "yeah, that looks good,"
Imbrri frowned slightly, "just how big is that hill?" she asked.
Xanni looked down, "oh, shoulda remembered that," she muttered
"It should be big enough," Krupp said.
Imbrri looked at it, "how steep is it i mean,"
"Oh... it's not too bad... I'm sure we could sit on it without our food rolling away."
Xanni looked at her older sister, "what do you think?" she asked.
Imbrri bit her lip, "well we can go check it out," she said.
Krupp nodded and stood up.
The sisters exchanged a look, not sure how this would work out....

He started towards the hill.
The gold and silver cars followed behind him
Krupp automatically took on his usual air as he walked along.
Xanni grinned, nudging her sister, "not too bad," she whispered.
Imbrri rolled her eyes, "i thought you had it for the caboose," she whispered back.
Xanni giggled, "well i have to see my options first"
Krupp didn't hear them talking.
The girls continued to follow him to the hill.
He came to a stop at the base of the smooth hill.
Imbrri and Xanni looked up it, biting their lips in almost identical fashions.
"what do you think?" Xanni asked her sister.
Imbrri shook her head, "i dunno, we've avoided them with her all the tiem so i don't know how she'd react."
"Is there something wrong?" Krupp asked.
Imbrri looked up at him, "it's just Rossi... well... she has a fear of hills"
Xanni snorted, "that's an understatement"
"Oh..." he said, "I... didn't know that."
Xanni nodded, "i don't think this'll be too bad, it's not like we're moving around or anything,"
Imbrri shrugged, "yeah maybe,"
"Well... maybe there's some place else."
Xanni shrugged, "but this is perfect," she said.
Imbrri nodded, "we can have it so that part of the picnic is on the flat area so that Rossi can stay down here if she wants"
Krupp nodded.

Ashley was sitting behind the roundhouse with Dinni.
Dinni was about to say something when a red figure skated around the roundhouse towards them.
Ashley looked up, "oh no, what's he up to now," she murmered

CB smiled at the two cars, "Hi..."
Ashley looked at him wearily, "'lo" she said
"There's going to be a picnic," CB said.
Ashley frowned, "a what?"
"A picnic," CB repeated.
Ashley looked at Dinni
"Rossi wants one," CB explained.
"Oh," Dinni said, that was an entirely different matter.
Ashley gave a small smile, "really?"
CB nodded, "So she shall have one. Dinah and Buffy are getting the food together."
Ashley looked at Dinni, trying to judge if CB was to be believed or not
"I suppose that we could go see what's happening..." Dinni started.
Ashley nodded, "sounds good," she said
CB smiled and skated off.

Ashley looked at Dinni, "you sure it was Rossi's idea, cuz if it was CB's, I'd be worried,"
"Well... we could go to the kitchen and see if Ashley and Buffy really are making a picnic..."
Ashley nodded, "we can do that,"
Dinni stood up and offered her a hand.
Ashley took it, smiling shyly
He pulled her up to her wheels.
Ashley smiled a bit bigger, "so shall we?"
Dinni nodded, "Let's go."
Ashley smiled, not letting go of his hand as she headed to the kitchen
Dinni could keep from smiling as he walked into the kitchen with Ashley.

Ashley looked around the kitchen, "wow you guys are actually making stuff!"
Dinah looked at her confused, "and why wouldn't we be?"
Ashley laughed, "cuz CB was the one who told us about the picnic."
Buffy laughed, "Well, you know that for some strange reason Rossi's fond of him, and he seems to like her..."
Dinni's smile faded just a bit.
Ashley nodded, "that surprises me," she said, "cuz he seems fond of her too,"
Dinah nodded, "who woulda thought, but they are both cabeese,"
Buffy nodded, "And he hasn't done anything to her either. Somehow I don't think he will..."
Ashley nodded, "and considering this is CB we're talking about,"
"But then again, how could anybody now like Rossi?" Buffy asked.
Ashley laughed, "that's very true," she said, giving Dinni's hand a squeeze.
Dinni smiled, "Thank you."

Dinah smiled, "well," she put some of the food in a big basket, "i think that's all we need,"
Ashley looked in the basket and laughed again, "that could feed us for a week!" she said
Buffy laughed, "Considering how some of us around here eat..."
Ashley smiled, "oh yeah, i forgot about the bottomless caboose,"
"Here," Dinni said, picking up the basket, "I'll help carry..."
Dinah grabbed it before it fell off the counter, "careful, it's really heavy!" she said smiling, "it'll probably take all of us to carry out"
Dinni laughed, "Nobody ever goes hungry around here I guess."
Ashley laughed, "not with these two coaches," she said, tilting her head towards Dinah and Buffy
"Aw thanks," Buffy said.
Dinah smiled and blushed slightly.

Rusty whistled softly as he pulled Rossi along.
Rossi was grinning, Rusty was so cool to be pulled by
Suddenly a deep whistle answered Rusty.
Rossi looked up, "who's that?"
"Greaseball," Rusty answered shortly.
Rossi frowned slightly, not knowing exactly who it was.
"Come on," Rusty said, turning down another hallway.
Rossi followed, biting on her lip

Greaseball rolled down the hallway that Rusty had just left, passing the steamer and caboose without a second glance.
Rossi stared up at him, slight fear in her eyes, her hands started to shake on Rusty's couplings
Rusty looked back at her, "Rossi?"
Rossi wet her lips, and looked away from the diesel.
"Rossi?" he asked concerned.
Rossi looked up, tears in her eyes.

He unhitched her and sank down to her level.
Rossi looked at him, trying to blink back the tears so that she didn't look like a crybaby
He gave her a hug.
Rossi let out a small sob and clutched Rusty's chest plates
Unsure exactly of what was wrong, Rusty held her gently.
Rossi was trembling, trying to stop her tears, but just seeing a diesel brought back the memories she tried to forget, the pain and fear.

Rusty hugged her. "You're safe," he murmered softly.
Rossi looked at him, "But, he's... he's a diesel," she hiccuped from her tears
"But he won't hurt you," Rusty said.
Rossi shivered again, "they all did before,"
"In your old yard?" Rusty asked.
Rossi nodded, sniffing loudly
"He won't hurt you."
"how do you know,"
"Because I know that even if he would, (which he won't) We would all protect you."
Rossi sniffed again, her eyes red from crying, "ok," she said, wiping her nose
Rusty picked her up. "Okay?"
Rossi nodded and managed a small smile

He hugged her again, balancing her in his arms.
Rossi hugged Rusty back, burying her face in his shoulder.
"Besides, Poppa's in charge around here," Rusty said, "And he won't let anything happen to you either."
Rossi nodded against Rusty's shoulder
"Okay?"
"ok," rossi mumbled against his shoulder.

"Let's go see if the picnic is ready..."
Rossi's head lifted and she smiled at Rusty, most of the fear disappearing from her eyes
Rusty started towards the kitchen, still carrying her.
Rossi swallowed, trying to get rid of the lump in her throat.
Rusty held her close.
Rossi gave a small smile again.
"All better?" he asked.
Rossi gave a nod, "i'm ok," she said
"Good," he said, "should we go outside and see where to have the picnic?"
Rossi's grin grew and she nodded, "Yeah!"
Rusty smiled and headed towards the door.

Imbrri and Xanni looked up as Rusty came out the door and waved to him and the little caboose.
"Look, there's your sisters," Rusty said.
Rossi smiled, "Yeah!" she said, "Wonder if they're coming."
"Probably," Rusty said, "You invited them right?"
"Well... yeah..."
"Then I'm sure that they'll come," he answered, skating over towards the other cars.

Imbrri and Xanni smiled, "how ya doing short 'n sweet?" Xanni asked.
Rossi grinned, "ok," she said, giving the hill beside the cars a timid look

Rusty shifted Rossi slightly, "Look, you're taller then your sisters now."
Rossi giggled, and stretched her arms above them, "I can reach over their heads!" she said.
Imbrri laughed, "that you can," she said, looking up at her little sister.
Rusty fell silent as he noticed Krupp.
Rossi grinned at Krupp, "I'm almost as tall as you!" she said.
"Almost," he said with a smile.
Rossi giggled, reaching her arms out to Krupp.
Rusty held on to her.

Rossi giggled, not noticing, but looking around, "where's the picnic gonna be?" she asked.
Xanni smiled, "Right here," she said.
Rossi blanched slightly, looking at the hill again, Imbrri moved closer to her, "it's ok, you can stay down here where it's flat if you want," she said.
Rossi smiled, "Ok," she said, her voice very soft.
"Did you want me to put you down?" Rusty asked.
Rossi giggled, "If you want," she said, knowing she got heavy sometimes
Rusty kissed her lightly on the cheek and then set her down on the grass.
Imbrri smiled at Rusty.

Rossi looked around, "there's lotsa room for food here," she said
Krupp nodded, "That's what I thought too."
Rossi giggled and moved around the area, not going up the hill at all, as if looking for something
"What are you doing?" Krupp asked.
"looking for where I wanna sit!" Rossi said.
Her sisters chuckled and shook their heads.
Rusty laughed and then looked up as Pearl skated over. He skated over towards her.
Imbrri and Xanni smiled at the coach and sat down on the hill, watching their sister

A deep whistle sounded as Poppa came by, the rest of the cars and coaches in tow.
Rossi looked up and bounced, clapping her hands. "Yay, they're here they're here!" she said, going over to Poppa
"Hi there Rossi," he said to her.
Rossi giggled, "This is gonna be fun," she said, taking poppa's hand and leading him over to where they'd decided the picnic was going to be
Poppa followed Rossi obediently.
Rusty skated over to help the others with the picnic basket.
Dinah smiled at him, "thanks," she said.
"No problem," Rusty said with a smile, setting the basket down.

Dinah looked around, "what a perfect spot," she murmered.
"I guess... Krupp picked it," Rusty said.
Dinah's eyebrows raised, "oh?" she asked, giving krupp a quick glance, "i wouldn't have thought..."
"I think that Rossi's gotten to him as well," Buffy said, watching the truck with the little caboose.
Dinah looked over at Krupp, her eyes wide, "that caboose must have magic," she said
Buffy nodded, "It's kinda odd... seeing him alone..."
Dinah frowned, "now that you mention it, where's Electra and the rest of the components?" she looked around, seeing no sign of the other engine
"Not here," Rusty answered.
Dinah shrugged, "that's odd,"
"I know," Rusty agreed.

Poppa and Belle settled down on the grass when Rossi had directed them to sit.
Ashley took Dinni's hand and led him to the hill, sitting down, and smiling at him.
He grinned at her.
"Okay," Buffy called, "who's hungry?"
Dinah sighed, "well," she turned to Buffy, "we might as well get the food out," she said.
Buffy nodded.

Talck was laying on the couch a bit later, he heard some noise outside. He slowly got up and looked out the window, his eyes grew wide as he saw almost all the trainyard outside sitting on a hill nearby having what looked like a picnic.
CB was seated next to Rossi, Krupp was on her other side. The little caboose had taken care of the seating arrangements.
Talck narrowed his eyes, he remembered the large truck from the fight with Electra and didn't like him being so close to Rossi, he definitely didn't like the caboose near Rossi either, he wondered why Imbrri, Xanni and Dinni allowed them together.
Dinni was a bit occupied with Ashley.

Imbrri looked over at dinni and sighed, she wished Talck was there, but she hadn't seen him in a day and a half, since he went looking for Dinni, and got in trouble
He looked up at his sister, "What's wrong?"
Imbrri smiled and shrugged.
Xanni gave her a side long glance, "She's missing you know who, the one we can't talk about when she's in this sort of mood," She giggled to Dinni as Imbrri turned pink.
"Ah..." Dinni said, looking over at Belle and Poppa.
Xanni giggled again, as Imbrri gave her shin a kick, "Hey!" Xanni complained. Imbrri sighed again
"Maybe we should ask them?" Dinni suggested.
Imbrri blushed deeper, "no, we can't, they said they'd let Talck out when he was allowed, you remember the old yard!"
Xanni rolled her eyes, "This isn't the old yard," she said, getting up, and avioding her sister's grasp. She went over to Belle and Poppa and gave a soft cough to get their attention.

Poppa looked up, "Hi Xanni."
Xanni gave her best smile, "hey... my sister and I were wondering if one of you or one of us could maybe go get Talck, I know he'd love to come to this," she said.
Imbrri cringed slightly, waiting for Poppa to start yelling at Xanni like CP had yelled at her the last time Talck got punished.
"To the picnic?" Poppa asked, looking at Belle.
Xanni nodded, still smiling.
"Well..." he started.
Imbrri looked away slightly.
Xanni's smile faltered a bit, but remained in place.
"I suppose since it IS a special occassion... and it was Rossi's idea..." Poppa said.
Imbrri looked up shocked, her eyes wide and jaw open.
Xanni's grin grew, "thanks," she said.
"I'll go get him," Belle said, getting up.
Xanni nodded, "ok, we'll wait," she said, going back over to Imbrri. "Toldja," she said, sticking her tongue out at her sister.
Imbrri still seemed to be in shock as she watched Belle leave.

Belle headed into the roundhouse, and over to Talck's apartments, knocking lightly on the door.
Talck turned from the window, he'd seen Belle leave, and wondered slightly what she wanted. He stiffly and slowly moved to the door, opening it. "Hi Belle," he said softly
"Hi there."
Talck moved away from the door, giving her room to come in if she wanted.
"How're you feeling?"
Talck gave a small groan, "as well as can be expected after being pounded to scrap twice in one day" he said with a slight smile
"I see that you're up..."
Talck nodded, motioning to the window, "I could hear you all out there and got up to look,"

She nodded, "Would you like to join us?"
Talck blinked in surprise, "you'd let me out?"
"For the picnic."
Talck looked down, "then i'd have to come back here alone again right?"
"Maybe."
Talck smiled, "I'd love to join you," he said, "i need some fresh air,"
"Well then," she said with a smile, offering him an arm.
Talck took it and headed outside with her.
Belle led Talck outside.

Rossi looked up to see Talck come outside, she hadn't seen him in a long time and squealed as she got up and ran to him, nearly bowling him over in a bear hug.
Talck only kept his balance thanks to Belle.
"careful Rossi," Belle said, "He's not feeling very well.."
Rossi looked up at Talck and Belle, tears filling her eyes, "What's wrong?"
Talck rubbed her back, "It's ok," he said, "I'm just a bit stiff is all."
"It's not serious at all," Belle assured Rossi.
Rossi swallowed her tears and nodded, taking Talck's hand, "C'mon!" she said leading him over to the picnic.
Imbrri got up and smiled at Talck, who grinned back.
Talck bent down slightly, "i'm going to sit with Imbrri now Little One, you go eat your food,"
Rossi nodded and went back to sit between CB and Krupp.
Talck gave each of them a fairly dark look, before following Imbrri over to where she was sitting.
CB looked a bit apologetic, and Krupp just looked confused.

Talck partially ignored them, turning to Imbrri as she passed him a drink
"are you ok?" she asked, obviously concerned.
Talck nodded, "I'm fine, just a bit bruised up, nothing that won't heal"
"Good," Dinni said.
Talck turned and smiled at Dinni and Ashley. Xanni, he noticed, was busy gazing at the two cars beside Rossi.

Rossi was giggling beside CB and Krupp, she got up to get some more food, bringing back her fourth full plate, but holding it out to share this time.
"You're still eating?" Krupp asked incredulusly.
Rossi smiled, "Uh huh!" she said.
Xanni laughed, "she's the bottomless pit!" she called over.
CB laughed, "That she is."
Rossi grinned

Something came whooshing past them.
Krupp automatically looked up, moving closer to Rossi.
Rusty looked sheepish, "sorry," he said, going over to retrieve the frisbee.
Rossi giggled, she grinned at Krupp, "Do you know how to play?" she asked
"Sure," he said, "You just throw it and catch it."
Rossi made a face, "I just can't catch it," she said
"I bet you can," Krupp said, "I'll help you."
Rossi smiled, "really?"
Krupp nodded and got up.
Rossi was practically bouncing.
Talck leaned over to his coaches "Be prepared to duck," he said to them, causing the sisters to giggle.

Krupp picked Rossi up.
Rossi grinned, clapping her hands.
Rusty tossed the frisbee towards them.
Krupp moved after it, holding Rossi up to catch it.

Rossi put her hands out to catch it, and it bounced off her chest, "See," she said.
"You just need practice," he said, picking it up and handing it to her.
Rossi took it and tossed it back to Rusty, her aim wasn't far off, but Talck ducked none the less.
Rusty ran to catch it, tossing it over to CB.
Rossi clapped her hands again, laughing.
"Here it comes!" CB called, sending it Rossi's way.
"Eek!" Rossi said, reaching out her hands and just bumping it, knocking it off course toward Dinni and Ashley.
Dinni ducked.
Ashley turned to see why Dinni was ducking, let out a squeal and whipped her arm around, snatching the frisbee out of the air.
Rossi looked at her in awe, "You're good!"

Ashley gave a sheepish smile, "when you're in the kitchen with Dinah and Buffy, you get used to things flying toward you,"
"Hey!" Buffy called.
Dinah tried to look indignant, but was grinning. Ashley smirked at the two coaches, "it's true, don't try and deny it!"
Rusty pointedly didn't look over at them, slowly going up the hill.
"Where're you going?" Buffy asked, "We need some back up on this!"
Dinah grinned, "yeah! you can't have us looking like we're crazy or anything!"
Rossi watched Rusty a little worriedly, biting her lip as he went up the hill.
"I'm not sayin' anything..." Rusty said.
Buffy stood up and darted after him.
Dinah made a face, but decided to let Buffy deal with him for now.

Rusty ran away from her as she chased him giggling.
Ashley got up, giving Dinni a smile, and moved to block Rusty from the front
Rusty let out a soft yelp as Ashley appeared in front of him, and Buffy tackled him from behind.
Ashley fell back as Rusty bumped into her with Buffy on top, "Oh this is just great," she muttered with a grin
"Ack! help!" Rusty called.
Ashley gasped, "shouldn't I be saying that since I'm on the bottom?"
"Sorry Ashley," Buffy said, giving Rusty's couplings a tug, "Get off her."
Ashley rolled her eyes, "yeah, what'll Pearl think?"
"I think he's *my* engine!" Pearl called teasingly.
Rusty looked up at her, "help?"
Ashley grinned, "then get him off me!! with him and Buffy both, I'm gonna be flatter than Dinah's pancakes!"
Dinah looked very indignant, "HEY! don't make me come over there,"
Buffy got off Rusty, who got off Ashley.
Ashley sat up, "air! I can breathe!"

"Shame on you, squishing her like that," Buffy scolded, pushing Rusty down again.
Ashley snickered as she got up, "and it had nothing to do with the fact that you were on top of him did it," she quickly moved over to Dinni, giving Buffy a grin
"Course not," Buffy said.

Rusty let out a soft eep as she gave him a light push, sending him rolling down the hill.
Rossi squealed slightly.
Rusty came to a stop at the bottom and propped himself up on his elbows, brushing grass out of his hair. "Thanks Buffy..."

Talck and the sisters gave her a worried look.
"What is it?" Krupp asked her.
Rossi bit her lip realizing Rusty wasn't hurt, "Nuthin'" she muttered.
"You sure?"
Rossi nodded, giving an involuntary shiver.
"Okay," Krupp said, looking over at Dinni, who picked up the frisbee. He sent it flying over towards Rossi.

Rossi grabbed at it, fumbled a few times, nearly fell out of Krupp's arms, and managed to catch it. She grinned triumphantly
"See," Krupp said, "You can do it."
Rossi nodded
Rusty let out a whistle.
Rossi grinned.
Her older sisters clapped softly, and Talck let out his own whistle, quite a bit softer than Rusty's as he wasn't in top shape
Rossi tossed the frisbee over to Rusty again
"Ack!" Rusty ducked as it came a bit too close to his head.

CB chased after it, but didn't manage to catch it, as it landed at Talck's feet.
Talck was laughing, but stopped when the caboose drew near. He picked up the frisbee, giving the caboose a slightly cold look, he stood up and tossed it toward Rossi and Krupp.
CB backed away slowly.
Talck tossed the frisbee, but it was a little off the mark, sailing to the right of Krupp and Rossi
Krupp held on to Rossi with one hand, and chased after it.
Rossi giggled and reached for the frisbee.

Rossi gasped as she suddenly came face to face with Electra, who wasn't looking amused as he balanced the frisbee on his finger.
Krupp gasped as well, skidding to a stop.
Electra just stared at Krupp, taking hold of the frisbee and tossing it back toward the picnic and CB.
The components were there as well, Purse looked nervous, and Volta somewhat apologetic
Krupp slowly set Rossi down.
Rossi instantly darted behind him, peeking out at Electra.
"Go back to the others..." Krupp said to her.
Rossi gave Electra one last fearful glance before rushing back and crawling into Dinni's lap.

Once Rossi was gone Krupp looked back at Electra silently.
Electra just stared at the armaments truck
Krupp blinked, standing completely still.
Electra still didn't say anything, just looked Krupp up and down and waited.
Despite what Electra had said before, Krupp stood still awaiting any sort of orders, although the way he was being looked it was making him a bit nervous.
Electra finally sighed, "if you don't mind, i have places to go, you're standing on the tracks," he muttered irritated
Krupp silently moved out of the way.
Without a second glance at the truck, Electra continued on his way.

Ashley stared after him, "that was very weird," she said
"You're tellin' me..." Buffy agreed.
Dinah got up and went over to the other coaches, "wonder what happened, it's not like electra to treat his components like that,"

Krupp stood for a few seconds, watching them go.
Rossi got up, knowing that Krupp was upset, she went over and took his hand in her small one, "you ok?"
He didn't answer for a minute and then looked down at her, "Yeah."
Rossi held out her arms to be picked up.
Krupp blinked and then reached down to pick her up.
Rossi snuggled close, giving him a hug. "It's ok," she said, "i'm still your friend,"
"Thanks..."

Dinah looked around at everyone who seemed quiet, she went over to the picnic basket and grinned, pulling out a handful of the chocolate pudding she'd made for dessert, "Oh buffy," she said, tossing the handful at the buffet car.
"Wha- ahhh!!" Buffy yelped.
Ashley looked at Buffy who was now covered in pudding and cracked up.
Buffy glared at Dinah.
Dinah just grinned and shrugged, "had to lighten the mood some how,"
"Hmm..." Buffy dipped a finger in the pudding and tasted it, "mm."
Dinah grinned, "well i made it, it better be 'mmmmmm'"
Buffy grinned.
Dinah gave her a look, "why does that grin seem ominous,"
Buffy giggled and looked up as Rusty was edging away again, "And where're you goin?"
Ashley tried to stifle a giggle, "I think he's catching on to your attacks Buffy," she said

Rusty looked over at Rossi, "They're wasting chocolate pudding!" he called.
Rossi looked up from where she'd rested her head on Krupp's shoulder, "WHAT?" she squealed.
Rusty nodded.
Rossi looked at Krupp, "we gotta stop em!"
Krupp nodded and skated over towards the coaches.
Dinah stuck her tongue out at Rusty, "spoil sport," she said.
Rossi grinned, "i didn't know there was dessert!" she said
Buffy nodded, "Yeah, but now I'm wearin' it..."
Rossi looked a bit crushed, "that was all of it?"
Dinah gave her a smile, "no hun, that was my share, there's lots more,"

Krupp set Rossi down to go get her desert and then went to sit down, and, as it happened, he was near Talck.
Talck gave him a slight look, not sure what to make of him
Krupp blinked when he realized that Talck was looking at him.
Talck looked away slightly, looking at Rossi for a second, "she seems to like you," he said, his voice heavy
"Yes she does."
Talck looked at Krupp again, "I'm not sure if i do..."
Krupp looked up.
"After what happened with your engine, I don't know if you're trustworthy enough."
Krupp nodded slightly, "I understand."
Talck looked back at Rossi, "she's gone through enough in her life without cabooses and the like causing more problems"
"Has she?" Krupp looked concerned.
Talck gave Krupp a look, clearly stating he wasn't getting into it.
"I didn't know..."
"It wasn't your concern,"
He nodded, "I would not hurt her."
Talck's look changed to slight disbelief, "i'll believe that when i see it,"
"As you say sir."
Talck blushed, he'd never had anyone call him sir before, he looked startled, but didn't say anything as he continued to watch Rossi getting served her pudidng

"I have..." Krupp started.
Talck looked at Krupp, waiting for him to continue
"You do not trust me because of my engine?"
"Let's just say I don't trust anyone, not when it comes to Rossi, until they've proven themselves"
"Oh."

Talck looked up as Rossi came over with a huge bowl of pudding and sat down between them, a huge grin on her face
"Hi Rossi," Krupp said smiling at her.
Rossi grinned up at him, getting a spoon out of her pocket, where she'd put it so she could hold the bowl with both hands.
Talck's expression softened as he reached down and stroked the little cabooses head, "you sure you can eat all of that Little One?" he asked.
Xanni laughed as she and Imbrri approached from where they were talking with the other coaches, "You know short 'n sweet, she can eat anything"
Krupp smiled at her, "I'm begining to see that..."
Xanni gave a small smile.
Talck sighed heavily, starlight help them, Xanni was attracted to both cars he didn't want them hanging around.

Later that evening, Krupp was on his way home.

Electra was lounging on one of the couches in the common room of his personal shed.
The components were about.
Purse was nearby, having been told to leave his master alone.
Volta was off in one of the back rooms.
Krupp opened the door and slowly skated in.
Joule, having not had any luck with Electra, was off bothering Volta.
Purse looked up and gave Krupp a smile, Electra clearing his throat slightly made him bite his lip and look away. Electra didn't even seem to notice Krupp come in.
Krupp smiled at Purse.
Electra yawned and sighed, acting as if Krupp wasn't even there.
Volta's voice could be heard coming from one of the back rooms where she was trying to tell Joule to leave her alone.
Krupp looked at Electra, puzzled and then sighed and started towards the backrooms, going past his master's chair.
Electra gave a sneer and moved only slightly, making it obviously clear that he didn't want Krupp to even accidentally brush him.
Krupp sighed softly and continued away.

"Joule will you just bugger off!" Volta's voice came from one of the back rooms.
Joule giggled.
Volta growled and rolled her eyes, flopping down on her bed.
Krupp knocked lightly on the door.
"Come in!" Volta called, praying for a distraction for Joule.
Krupp opened the door.
Volta sat up quickly, looking at him worried.
"Hi Volta."
Volta gave him a small smile, "Hey," she said, giving Joule a half glare.
Joule headed over to Krupp.
Volta rolled her eyes and waited.
Krupp smiled as the younger component gave him a hug. "Hi Joule."
Volta sighed and watched, she'd been worried about Krupp all day, and her feelings were intensified when she saw him earlier this afternoon, he actually seemed... cheerful, she was wondering if his temporary job loss had driven him over the edge
"Okay, okay, that's enough," Krupp said, attempting to detach her.
Volta was getting impatient.
Joule mock-pouted, but did as he told her to do, and went off in search of someone else to annoy.

Volta sighed with relief, "Finally," She gave Krupp a look, "you ok?" she asked
"Well..."
Volta waited.
"Yes and no..." he said finally.
Volta nodded
"Electra... he... he won't even look at me anymore."
Volta sighed, "what do you expect, he's treating you like he would any other car, you had to know that was coming,"
"Yeah..." Krupp said softly, "But still..."
Volta put a comforting hand on his shoulder, "I know it's tough," she gave him another worried look, "are you ok otherwise, I mean... seeing you today.. you were acting..... weird"
"Weird?"
"well... you were..... " she didn't know how to say it
Krupp waited.
"You were playing.... and looked... happy."
"Oh..." Krupp looked down, "Yes, well..."
Volta sighed, "it's just not like you,"
"But I... I was."
"what?"
"I was happy..."
"That's the point, you're never happy,"
"I- I've never thought about it before..."
Volta sighed again, "I'm just worried about you,"
"Don't."
Volta shook her head, "You think it's something I can control, Krupp you're my friend, and I'm worried you're losing your mind, you've been acting weird since you got back from getting us food,"
Krupp sighed, "I'm sorry..."
"you don't have to be," Volta sighed, "I'm just wondering what's going on in your head, and if you're ok,"
"I guess I'm okay..."
Volta nodded.

"Volta, I... I'm worried about something..."
"what?"
"I *was* happy out there and... I don't know..."
Volta motioned him to sit down on the edge of her bed, while she pulled up a chair, "you don't know what?" she asked him, sitting down.
"I'll miss it," he said after a second.
Volta looked down, "you mean you're not happy here?"
"That's not it."
"what is it then?"
"I don't know. that's just it, I don't know."
Volta sighed, "you know I'll help if I can,"
"It used to be so easy, Electra gave orders and I'd follow..."
"And what's changed?"
"I've been doing things on my own lately."
Volta nodded, "I noticed, and I don't know why, what happened Krupp, what changed?"
"I don't know," Krupp said.
Volta sighed, "Krupp, you know if you need to talk to someone I'm here, we've been friends for how long? I hope you'd know that,"
"I know," Krupp said, "that's one thing that I *do* know."
Volta gave him a smile, "I'm glad about that at least"
He nodded.
"You sure you're ok for now?"
He nodded again, "I'm sure that this will blow over and I'll be back to normal soon."
Volta nodded, giving him a sly look, "And you're sure you won't let me near the caboose?" she asked
somewhat teasingly
"As long as you don't do anything to her."
Volta got an innocent look, "what would I do to her?" she asked, grinning, "other than brainwash her and force her to do my bidding,"
"No."
Volta rolled her eyes, "I'm just kidding," she said with a soft chuckle, "this time......"
Krupp smiled, "good."

"I must say it was strange to see everyone gathered together and not at each other's throats," she admitted
"Yeah..." Krupp said, "The steamers... they... let me stay."
Volta nodded, "That was surprising enough, but seeing CB there as well....."
He nodded, "I know."
Volta shook her head, "what did they give him, mellow pills?"
"It's the little caboose..."
"what? the pink one?"
Krupp nodded.
"what do you mean, it's her?" Volta was confused, if the little caboose could calm down CB.....
"She seems to have this... strange effect on everybody..."
Volta frowned, "how so?"
"Everybody likes her."
Volta looked at Krupp, "Everyone? You mean like, coaches, steamers, freight, everyone?"
He nodded, "Seems like it."
Volta looked confused, "How? It's just not really possible," She shook her head, "I mean, there has to be something about her that's not to like,"
"I haven't found it."
Volta shook her head.
"Of course, I've only known her for two days..."
Volta nodded, "it's just surprising,"
Krupp shrugged.

Belle headed over towards Talck and his train as Buffy and the other coaches were cleaning up the food.
Talck looked up and sighed as he saw the look on Belle's face. "I gotta go again," he sighed.
Imbrri looked upset, but nodded, giving him a hug.
Belle waited, "No rush honey."
Talck gave her a smile, "thanks,"
she nodded.
Imbrri gave him another hug, "it'll be ok," she said, "Dinni and I will watch out for the others."
Talck gave her a smile and nodded, getting up slowly.
Dinni nodded as well, "We'll see you later."
Talck nodded and smiled, looking for Rossi and seeing her over with the other Caboose, he frowned slightly, but sighed, not wanting to deal with it right now.

Belle was waiting until he was ready.
Talck turned to her and smiled, giving her a nod
"All set?" Belle asked.
Talck nodded again. "ready when you are"
She nodded and started towards the roundhouse.
Talck followed behind her, a bit slower than she was, as he was still stiff from the fights
"Look at it this way," Belle said, "You can't be recruited to help clean up."
Talck gave her a small smile, "I don't think I'd be much help there."
She smiled at him as they rolled past Poppa.
Talck gave Poppa a nod of greeting as he continued to follow bBelle
Poppa smiled back at the other engine as his coach led Talck into the roundhouse.
Talck gave a small yawn, "Thanks for letting me out," he said to Belle.
She nodded.
Talck was getting a bit sleepy as he followed her to his room
She led him into his apartments and then paused, "Which bedroom is yours?"
Talck pointed to the second room on the left. "that one,"
She nodded and started to lead him towards it.
Talck slowly moved to the door, he was relieved he'd be able to lie down, he was fairly tired right now.
Belle pulled back his blankets.
Talck smiled, "thanks Belle," he said, "I haven't had someone take care of me like you have in a long time,"
"That's too bad," she said softly, waiting for him to lay down.
Talck slowly eased himself into bed with a sigh, and he nodded, "ever since the diesels took over my yard,"
She nodded as she tucked him in.
Talck gave her another smile as he sighed and closed his eyes
Belle leaned over and kissed him lightly on the forehead.
Talck gave her a sleepy smile, "night belle, thanks," he murmured as he fell asleep
"Sweet dreams," Belle said, tiptoeing out of the room.

Rossi had seen her engine leave with Belle and had followed them without them knowing. She was standing in the hallway outside of their apartments.
Belle stopped when she saw the little caboose and gave her a smile.
"What's wrong with Talck?" Rossi asked
"He's not feeling very well," Belle said.
Rossi frowned, "Why?" she asked, she didn't like her engine disappearing into his room.
Belle leaned forward towards Rossi, "He'll be okay in a few days."
Rossi nodded, still looking worried.
"And he was tired," Belle said.
Rossi nodded again, "but he'll be ok?"
"Yes."
Rossi nodded, "ok," she said, not seeing anything wrong with Belle's explanation

"I'm gonna go back outside to help clean up," Belle said.
"Ok," Rossi said, "I'll help too!"
Belle smiled and reached down for her hand.
Rossi gave her a small smile back, taking the older car's hand
Belle and Rossi walked outside together, just as Poppa was heading over towards Rossi's siblings.

Imbrri and Xanni looked up at Poppa, "Hello sir," Imbrri said
"Poppa." he said firmly.
Imbrri looked confused, "I'm sorry?"
"Call me Poppa."
Xanni grinned, "Don't mind her, she's overly proper when it comes to things like that."
Imbrri gave her sister a glare, "there's nothing wrong with being polite!"
Poppa smiled, "Anyway..."
Xanni grinned. Imbrri rolled her eyes and gave Poppa a smile, "yes?"
"I just wanted to tell you and your train that you're all quite welcome to sleep in your own beds tonight, provided you don't wake your engine."
Imbrri's smile grew slightly, "Thank you," she said gratefully
Poppa nodded with a smile of his own.
Imbrri looked at the floor, "I wasn't sure how long it would take,"
"Until now," Poppa answered.
Imbrri nodded, "he's been punished longer before, for less,"
"I see," Poppa said softly.
Xanni for once looked serious, "It doesn't matter anymore," she said to her sister, "can't we just forget it, it's different here."
Dinni nodded slowly, "Very different."
Ashley gave Dinni's hand a soft squeeze.
Imbrri looked down at her feet, it was harder for her to forget, but she sighed and nodded.
Dinni looked up, "Well... did you want us to help clean up?"
Imbrri nodded, "we don't mind helping," she said to Poppa
"Alright," Poppa said, pointing over to Dinah and Buffy, who were cleaning up, along with Rusty and CB.
Rossi was clearing the plates, and eating whatever scraps were left on them.
Xanni nodded and went over to Dinah and Buffy. Ashley led Dinni over as well.

Imbrri looked up at Poppa, her eyes showing some of the pain that went through her everyday, "I'm sorry," she said, "it's just hard not to think about... then,"
Poppa took a step towards her.
Imbrri looked down, trying not to let the tears she felt enter her eyes
Poppa hesitated and then gave her a hug.
Imbrri lost all control, and hugged Poppa back, tears spilling down her cheeks.
He held her close.
Imbrri cried for a short while, then managed to stem her tears, wiping her face she backed away from Poppa slightly, "I’m sorry," she mumbled
"For what?" he asked.
Imbrri looked up at Poppa, "I don't know," she admitted
"Ah," Poppa said, "Well..." he looked around, "I think that we've got everything under control out here..."
Imbrri nodded, not sure what to do.
"So you could go on inside..."
Imbrri seemed to realize what Poppa was saying, and nodded, "thank you," she said as she started towards the roundhouse
"You're welcome," Poppa said.
Imbrri gave him a smile and went to Talck's apartments.
Poppa watched her go with a smile, finally the coach had seemed happy about something.

Imbrri entered the round house and gave Belle a smile as she passed, hoping her face wasn't too bad after crying.
"Hi Imbrri," Belle greeted her.
"hello," she said softly.
"He just fell asleep I think," Belle said.
Imbrri smiled, "thanks belle," she said, heading over to Talck's room, "for everything you've done for us,"
"Of course," Belle said.

Imbrri gave belle another smile and went into Talck's room and went to his bed, he looked sore from the bruises on his face. She put a hand on his forehead and he mumbled a bit.
Imbrri sighed and crawled up on the bed beside Talck, her head on his shoulder. In his sleep, Talck put his arms protectively around the silver car. Imbrri sighed and closed her eyes as well.

Outside, Rusty picked up the basket that had been packed with all of the various and assorted things that got left behind at a picnic.
Rossi was finishing what was left of some chocolate pudding on one of the bowls.
CB laughed, "You still hungry?"
Rossi grinned. Xanni laughed from nearby, "She never stops!" she said, coming over, "I swear she doesn't have a stomach, it's just empty space,"
CB laughed again.
Rossi giggled and held the bowl out, "you want some?"
Xanni rolled her eyes, "I’ll let you have it, I have a time when I’m full and I’ve hit it,"
"Well I guess somebody likes your pudding," Buffy teased Dinah.
Dinah made a face, "Yes," she said, "though you still have some in your hair,"
Buffy stuck out her tongue.
Dinah giggled, looking around, "I think we got just about everything,"
Buffy looked around, "Yeah, I think so."
"Okay," Rusty said, picking up the basket.
Ashley smiled at Dinni, then at the rest of the cars, "thanks Dinah and Buffy," she said, she looked at Rossi, "and thank you for inviting me,"
"Yeah, me too," Rusty agreed.
Rossi grinned, "it was fun!" she said, finishing the last of the pudding and putting the bowl in the basket
Rusty smiled and headed into the roundhouse.
Xanni laughed as she looked at Rossi, "you definitely need to be cleaned off," she said, shaking her head at Rossi, who was covered in chocolate pudding from spills.

"C'mon little one," Dinni said, "You need to take a bath or something."
Rossi grinned, "okies," she said, looking around, "so does she," she pointed at Buffy
Dinni laughed and took Rossi's hand, "I think that she can take care of herself."
Rossi giggled. Xanni rolled her eyes again and grinned at CB, "Trainlets," she said with a helpless shrug.
Ashley grinned at Rossi, "It won't take too long to get you cleaned up," she said.
Dinni nodded and scooped her up into his arms, "Let's go."
Ashley smiled and followed along as Rossi giggled and chattered away about her favorite parts of the picnic.
Dinni listened attentively enough.

CB smiled as he watched them go.
Xanni grinned at CB, "She's a sweet little thing," she said, "after you get past her annoying parts,"
"She is sweet," CB agreed.
Dinah looked over at CB and Xanni, and then nudged Buffy to get her attention. >br?Xanni smiled, "I'm surprised at how everyone just seemed to fall in love with her here, at the old yard no one could stand her,"
"That's too bad," CB said, "I don't understand how anybody could hate her..."
Xanni shrugged, "yeah, same here, but it was a group of diesels, and we're in a steamer's train, so..."
He nodded. Buffy looked over at Xanni and CB and raised her eyebrows at Dinah questioningly.
Dinah shrugged, not remembering when CB was this calm and such. Xanni smiled.
"This whole trainyard has gone over to the steamers..." CB said.
Xanni smiled, "For us that's a good thing,"
He nodded.

Rossi was grinning as she walked beside the two bigger coaches, still holding Dinni's hand
"So is this the right way?" Dinni asked Ashley.
Ashley nodded, "yep, it's just around the corner," she said
Dinni nodded, "And then we'll get this Little One all clean and shiny."
Rossi grinned, "stead of dirty like I am now!"
Ashley laughed, "At least you didn't get it all in your hair like Buffy did," she said
"She didn't look very happy about that," Dinni agreed.
Rossi giggled and shook her head, while Ashley laughed, "yes well, with Dinah you've always got to expect the unexpected, that's why I don't usually let her get behind me,"
Dinni laughed.
Ashley pointed to a door as they rounded the corner, "it's in there," she said
Dinni nodded, "Alright Rossi, c'mon."
Rossi nodded, "okies" she giggled as she followed along.
Ashley went in and looked around for some soap.
Dinni led Rossi over to one of the showers.
Ashley smiled at them as Rossi giggled, "it's so big," she said, leaning her head back to look up at the showerhead, and nearly falling over backwards
"Careful," Dinni said, catching her.
Rossi looked up at her brother and giggled.
"Well I don't want you to fall..."

Ashley came around with a bottle of soap, she was grinning as she looked down at Rossi, "ready to get clean?" she asked.
Rossi giggled again and nodded
Dinni smiled and turned on the water.
Rossi jumped back away from it with a squeal and a giggle, nearly bumping into Ashley
"C'm'ere," Dinni ordered playfully.
Rossi giggled and shook her head, slowly trying to back away, but this time actually bumping into Ashley.
Ashley laughed, "it's ok, it's just water," she said, giving Rossi a small nudge
Dinni caught hold of her and started to pull her towards the shower.
Rossi giggled and squealed again, reaching out and grabbing Ashley's skirt in an iron grip. Ashley laughed and gave Dinni a look, "is she always this excited about showers?"
Dinni rolled his eyes good-naturedly and nodded.
Rossi wiggled a bit and tried to get away from Dinni, pulling just enough on Ashley's skirt to knock her off balance.
Ashley stumbled a bit, and ended up falling into the shower, proceeding to get thoroughly soaked.
Rossi started to giggle non-stop at the look on Ashley's face.
Ashley stood up and laughed, "well there's more than one way to get a caboose wet," she said, reaching down and giving the squealing Rossi a big wet hug
"Since you're already wet..." Dinni started.
Rossi and Ashley looked up at Dinni.
Dinni looked meaningfully at Ashley, "Hold her?"
Rossi started to squirm as Ashley tightened her hug gently to keep her in place, giving Dinni a big grin
Dinni grabbed the soap.
Rossi made a face, "no!!! you'll get it in my eyes!"
"No I won't, I promise."
Ashley grinned, "we're just getting the chocolate off you, there's none near your eyes,"
Rossi made another face, "I dunno......"
"I'll be careful," Dinni promised again, indicating that Ashley should pull Rossi into the shower.

Ashley gently lifted Rossi up and took her to the shower, stepping into the water with the little caboose. She giggled as Rossi tipped her head back and tried to drink the sprinkles like rain
Dinni followed with a sponge and the soap, rubbing it to make it foam up.
Rossi kept her eyes closed. Ashley got a devilish glint in her eyes
Dinni didn't notice, starting to clean Rossi off but keeping clear of the water.
Ashley gave a small chuckle, and reached her arm out, grabbing Dinni's and pulling him towards the water.
Rossi, feeling the change in how Ashley was holding her, opened her eyes, and giggled when she saw what was happening.
Dinni let out a rather high pitched yelp as Ashley pulled him under the shower as well, getting him completely soaked.
Ashley grinned at him as Rossi giggled some more, "figured you had to get wet since both of us already are," she said
"Gah."
Rossi and Ashley giggled.

Ashley took the sponge and continued getting the chocolate off of Rossi's breast plates. Ashley looked up and smiled at Dinni
Dinni was, by this time soaking wet, he shrugged, "Ah well."
Ashley grinned as Rossi started playing with some of the bubbles
Dinni helped scrub the chocolate and assorted other dirt off Rossi's frame.

Rossi giggled when one of the two hit a ticklish spot. She found a handful of bubbles nearby and picked them up, blowing them out into the air, mainly at Dinni's face.
"'ey watch it!"
Rossi giggled and stuck her tongue out.
Ashley laughed and put a dollop of bubbles on top of Rossi's head.
Dinni laughed.
Rossi made a face.
Ashley winked at her and laughed as she covered the top of Dinni's head with bubbles as well
"hey!" he protested, grabbing handful of bubbles and proceeding to decorate Ashley's hair with the white foam.
"Ahh!" Ashley squealed causing Rossi to nearly double over with laughter as she tossed more bubbles onto Dinni
"Hey!" Dinni ducked, "C'mon, don't you like that?"
Ashley and Rossi both laughed.
Dinni stepped under the shower to clear the bubbles from his hair.
Ashley shook her head and gave Dinni a light push, "don't hog the water," she teased with a smile, letting Rossi in as well.
Dinni pulled Rossi over to him, holding her while he rinsed her out.
Rossi giggled and shook her head back and forth. Ashley grinned, enjoying the site of the siblings together.
Dinni rubbed her hair, getting the soap out.
Rossi grinned and swatted at his hand, "you're makin my hair all knotted!"
"Well would you rather be covered in soap?"
Rossi stuck her tongue out and proceeded to taste test the soap, she started making all sorts of horrible noises as she tried to get the soap out of her mouth. Ashley couldn't help but laugh.
"Ack Rossi!" Dinni pulled her out of the shower, "don't eat that!"
Rossi made a face, "but it smelled so good!"
"But it doesn't *taste* good silly."

Ashley went over and pulled out a towel, starting to dry off the little caboose
Dinni finished rinsing his hair.
Ashley smiled at him, blushing as she thought about how good he looked wet.
Dinni headed over to Rossi, "I'll take over," he said, "you can rinse off."
Ashley smiled, "thanks," she said, going into the shower and getting the last of the soap out of her hair and off her dress.
Dinni watched her for a minute, and then looked away, focusing his attention on drying off Rossi.
Ashley stepped out, smiling, "that feels much better," she said, grabbing two towels and tossing one over Dinni's head.
Rossi fell into a fit of giggles at the site of her brother with the towel completely covering his head
"Thanks Ashley..." he said, a bit muffled.
Ashley chuckled, "no prob,"
He dried his hair off.
Ashley dried herself off as well.

Rossi looked around a bit, then dove under a nearby stool, retrieving her blue ballcap and placing it on her purple hair, she grinned at her brother and Ashley
"You look pretty now," Dinni said approvingly.
Rossi giggled as Ashley nodded in agreement, "Except one thing," she said, picking up a brush.
Rossi squealed and dove behind Dinni, "NO NO NO!!" she yelled, grinning her head off.
Ashley raised an eyebrow at Dinni.
Dinni turned around and scooped her up.
Rossi smiled at him, but looked at Ashley suspiciously
'I've an idea' he mouthed to Ashley.
Ashley waited. Rossi kept her eyes on the Smoking car
"C'mon Rossi," Dinni said, "Let's go show how pretty you look."
Rossi nodded, "ok"
Dinni carried her towards the door.
Ashley followed, not sure what was happening. Rossi looked back at her. Ashley smiled and put the brush in her pocket.
"I think we should show Poppa how pretty you look all shiny..." Dinni said.
Rossi nodded, smiling, not caring about her hair being messy, "I'm all sparkly now," she said
He nodded.
Ashley grinned and came up on Dinni's other side.

Dinni headed towards Poppa's office in hopes of finding the older engine.
Rossi smoothed her skirt a bit to get the last remains of dampness out of it.
At just that moment, Poppa was coming down the hallway the other way.
Ashley smiled, "hey poppa," she called, "there's a little caboose here who wants to see ya"
"Oh?" Poppa asked, "Now who would that be?"
Rossi giggled and waved.
"Rossi? Is that you?"
Rossi giggled again.
Ashley smiled, "she looks a lot different with out the chocolate pudding doesn't she"
"A lot." Poppa agreed.
Dinni cleared his throat and touched his hair lightly.
Ashley smiled and slowly pulled the brush out of her pocket, keeping it from Rossi's view, as the little caboose grinned.

Poppa smiled, "C'm'ere Rossi."
Rossi giggled and held out her arms to poppa
Poppa scooped her up and stroked her tangled hair.
Rossi blushed slightly and bit her lip
"Hmm..." Poppa said, "Hasn't Ashley brushed your hair yet?"
Rossi pouted and frowned, "no...." she said.
Poppa mock glared at Ashley, "Well why hasn't she?"
Ashley looked down as if embarrassed.
Rossi pouted again, "cuz it hurts!" she said
"Really?"
Rossi nodded. Ashley gave a helpless shrug, "she won't let me near her,"
"Have you ever had Ashley brush your hair before?"
Rossi shook her head.
"then how d'you know that she'll hurt?"
"cuz it always hurted before"
"But would you let Ashley try it?"
Rossi looked down "I dunno"
"You'd look so pretty with your hair fixed..."
Rossi bit her lip and looked at Dinni
Dinni nodded.
Rossi sighed dramatically, "ok......." she muttered
Poppa gave her a hug.
Ashley smiled, "I promise I'll be gentle," she said.
Rossi gave her a slightly dark look, but didn't protest.

Poppa carried Rossi over to a chair and sat her down.
Ashley came up behind her and gently lifted a bit of hair. "OW!"
Ashley laughed, "Rossi, I haven't even got the brush out yet, what's ow?"
Rossi looked down, "I was getting ready..."
Poppa stifled a laugh
Ashley smiled, and gently started to brush out the end of the hair, keeping it loose so that Rossi didn't even really know it was being brushed.
Rossi fidgeted, not liking to sit still this long.
Poppa skated over and sat down in a chair next to Rossi.
Rossi looked over at him, but didn't move her head, worried it would pull. She gave him a small smile and played with the bottom of her skirt.
Ashley smiled at Poppa, nearly finished the bottom half of Rossi's hair

"So Rossi, was the picnic fun?"
Rossi smiled, "uh huh!" she said, "and nummy too!"
"That's good," Poppa said, "I was watching you play Frisbee..."
Rossi smiled, "I almost caught it right," she said
"I saw."
Ashley slowly and carefully took off Rossi's ballcap, laying it aside as she brushed higher up. Rossi giggled, "I threw it right too!"
"You sure did."
Ashley gave Dinni a smile, amazed that Rossi was sitting so well. "why didn't you play?" Rossi asked Poppa
"Me?" Poppa asked, "I think that I'm a bit too old to be diving around."
"Oh," Rossi said, "well next time I'll sit with you then!"
"Nah, I'd rather watch you play."
Rossi smiled, "ok," she said.
Ashley grinned and placed the hat back on Rossi's purple hair, "there you are sweetling, all done."
Rossi looked up at Ashley, "really?"
"Really," Dinni said, from where he'd been watching.
Rossi giggled and got up, turning to poppa, "now do I look better?"
"Much prettier." he said.
Rossi giggled and gave poppa a hug
Poppa scooped her up in a big bear hug.
Rossi giggled some more. Ashley smiled as she watched, looking over at Dinni

"Thanks..." Dinni said softly to Ashley.
Ashley shrugged, "no problem"
Dinni smiled a bit shyly at her.
Ashley blushed and looked back at Poppa and Rossi
"It's getting pretty late..." Poppa said slowly.
Rossi smiled up at Poppa
"Whaddya think?" Poppa asked her.
Rossi was about to say something, but let out a big yawn
Poppa nodded, "That's what I thought."
Ashley chuckled, "I think it's time for someone to go to bed."
Rossi didn't seem to hear as she snuggled against poppa's shoulder
"I'll take her," Poppa said.
Ashley looked at Dinni and smiled
Dinni smiled back, "Good night Rossi."
Rossi gave a sleepy smile and lay her head down on Poppa's shoulder.
Poppa carried her towards her room.
Ashley turned to Dinni, "she's so sweet!" she said
"I like this trainyard," Dinni said half to himself.
Ashley smiled, "so do I,"
He smiled at her warmly.

Ashley suddenly blushed, "so... um... shall we go back to the main room?"
Dinni nodded, "Okay. *Let's* go."
Ashley seemed a bit nervous again, though she smiled and held out her hand.
Dinni grinned at her and took her hand.
Ashley smiled again and headed out the door with Dinni

Poppa carried the nearly sleeping caboose into Talck's apartments.
A light snore was coming from one of the rooms
Poppa blinked and smiled, shifting Rossi slightly and heading towards her room, passing the open door of the room that the sound was coming from.
Talck was lying on his back with his arms around a familiar silver coach, both were sound asleep
Poppa smiled when he saw them.
Rossi shifted in his arms and mumbled softly in her sleep
He went into her room and set her down gently on her bed.
Rossi mumbled again and rolled onto her side.
Poppa pulled a blanket over her gently.
Rossi sighed and pulled the teddy bear on the bed closer to her.
Poppa kissed her lightly on the forehead and tiptoed out of the room.
The snoring had stopped in the other room, but the two were still asleep
Poppa silently made his way out of Talck's apartments.