52. Ariel's Missing Tree

It was two more days before Christmastime. Lots of children were expected in Atlantica. All sea creatures were working on the last preparations. King Triton wanted this big party to be very special. King Triton was just waiting for Ariel. Be quick now, Ariel. he told her. ''The Christmas Tree has just came in. I need you to go and get it, Ariel. And I don't want to see you until you get it. Can we sing some Christmas songs too?'' Ariel said. Let's see. said the mighty king. It would be great to sing songs again. Ariel thought. Then, she went on her essential mission. Ariel got the Christmas Tree safely. A big snowslide was up ahead. Should not be late. she panted. King Triton is counting on me! She eeked, and she wanted to swim, but it was no use. Worse came. Soon, Ariel was covered in snow. Meanwhile, everyone else was waiting. They were very worried about Ariel. Quiet! cried King Triton. Ariel had gone safely, but a telegraph had been knocked down. We will now think that she is stuck. Everyone else felt bad for Ariel. And so, Tip and Dash went to rescue her. They came to a big snowslide. Save me! Shh! cried Tip. I think I heard something. Maybe it's the wind. thought Dash. Save me! ''No, fool. Let's listen.'' said Tip. I'm here! ''Wow! It's Ariel! Let's save her. The poor little mermaid must be stuck real tight!'' When the men came, it took almost forever to decide how to clear away all that snow. Ariel's worker and driver, who were by a closeby house, joined the big rescue. Soon, Ariel and the tree were soon free. Then, they went away on their big adventure. King Triton gave them a warm welocme. ''As a treat for how hard you worked, you will now enjoy all the songs. Be fast!'' At the junction, everything was ready. Three, two, one! Then, all the lights came on as if by magic. ''Ladies and gentlemen and sea creatures of all ages, I now present Ariel the mermaid and her very good friends who all made this possible. Then, there was a buzzing sound. Melody and Swifty watched. They would recognize that buzz anywhere. His light shone, and Timon the flying creature went down into the snow. He brought a big surprise. Santa Claus! Everybody cheered. The party started. It was no fun to get stuck, Ariel told Melody, ''but it is fun for this party! Merry Christmas, Melody! Merry Christmas, all! by Julian Ayele Cumberbatch