First Day on Sodor! (magazine story)

"Aim and drill!"

- Darcy

First Day on Sodor! is a magazine story illustrated using images from the television series.

Plot
Early one morning, Nia is down at Brendam Docks waiting to collect a very special new engine. When she finally sees the new arrival, Nia cannot believe her eyes. The vehicle's name is Darcy and she's a tunnel-boring machine. Cranky places Darcy onto Nia's flatbed. Darcy is both nervous and excited to be on Sodor, but Nia assures her that everyone is very friendly. Darcy is so happy to hear, she waves her drill around and nearly scratches James.

The rest of the Sodor Construction Company are confused when they finally meet Darcy; they don't think they need a tunnel-boring machine. Oliver points out that they can drill tunnels with their jackhammers. However, they soon discover that the ground is too hard for them. Darcy sees an opportunity to help and accidentally ends up smashing some crates in her excitement. Darcy is very upset; she feels that no-one wants her.

Oliver and Alfie continue to try digging the tunnel, but they just cannot manage it. Finally, it is Darcy's time to shine and prove to everyone just how useful she can be. All the other vehicles are amazed by Darcy's quick tunnelling. Now, Darcy is very happy to be on the Island of Sodor.

Characters

 * Nia
 * Alfie
 * Oliver
 * Darcy
 * James
 * Cranky

Trivia

 * This story is based on the twenty-third series episode, of the same name.

Goofs

 * At the beginning, Darcy is referred to as a "new engine".