The story stars John, an LSWR T9 Class 4-4-0 steam train who lives on a branch line that runs from a town called Falford to another town called Granburry. In 1961, it faces closure due to a lack of passengers, but John has lived on the branch line ever since he was built in 1899, and he doesn't want it to close down...

Upon arriving in a new world with Roxas, Xion's at battle with herself. It's confusing enough that she seems to have been chosen as a Speaker. But then there's another Speaker that seems so much like her. While trying to keep Xari from making mistakes like she has, Xion has to come to terms with her past. Her new friends—and more importantly, Roxas,—are by her side through it all.

Fluttermouse had decided a good long while ago that her lessons would be so much more interesting if they only made sense.