58. Ariel Gets Hit

Every evening, Ariel the little mermaid swims along with her stuff. First, they go through a mill. Then, they pass a village. Finally, they find a viaduct with a little town nestled under it. It is splendid. When kids hear Ariel approaching, they stand on the viduct, cheering, until she is totally gone. One morning, Ariel was almost late. She stopped at a light before the viaduct to talk to some kids. Melody was also there. Come on, Ariel! she said. If you are late, King Triton will buy a new mermaid, and get rid of you once and for all!" He'll do nothing of the sort! Ariel thought. But she was confused. Next morning, Ariel raced along. Ahead of her, was a yard. On the flatform, was an inspector waving something. Ariel saw some kids, waving as well. Something is wrong! Ariel said. This is a yard! Help us, Ariel! Help us! We're glad you're here! the kids cried. Will you please get us back home? The master told Ariel's worker the bus was broken, and the parents would be concerned if the kids arrived late. The kids went off the viaduct, with Ariel waiting. She pulled them away to the next junction. Pumbaa was there to take the kids home. When Ariel was done with her adventure, she was late. She was concerned that King Triton would be mad. I told Ariel. Melody told Flounder. She is late ONCE today! She'll soon be in trouble.'' The next day, when Ariel got her people, King Triton was totally gone. I'm glad! said Ariel. Ariel knew everything about her branch. Then, there was a broken piece of road which the warm sun was over. Be careful, Ariel! cried her worker. But then, there was trouble! We're done! said the worker. We shall not go further! But, my people! Ariel said. We'll take care of them! said the worker. Men fixed the road, and Ariel pushed carts. Pumbaa arrived. I know you'll need my help soon! he said. Yes, Pumbaa. said Ariel. I can't run properly now. Pumbaa went to get Ariel's people. Hi, Pumbaa! they cheered. We're glad you're here! Pumbaa was soon running along. He stopped at all the junctions. He also went between junctions. Ariel was hot and bothered. I lost my people, and gave them up to Pumbaa! They will be huge fans of him! King Triton came. ''Your branch is fixed! I'll switch time tables, so you and Pumbaa can be together more often.'' When Ariel arrived at the junction, the people were still there. Pumbaa was great to ride in, but we love you more! Later on, Ariel was talking to Pumbaa. Thanks for taking care of my people. she told him. ''That's OK. My new friends were stunning and elegant! But I like sharing them with you. Pumbaa, Ariel said, you really are a good friend.''

by Julian Ayele Cumberbatch