The Things We Don't Plan for

[WickedElphie]

Hey Frida! I really enjoyed your fic. There were a couple small errors, in particular spelling lose (to not win) as loose (not tight), but overall it was very well-written.

You might want to include a warning about the mature content too, since this is an all-ages forum.

I can't wait for you to update!

[fridamoonbeam]

Okies, I took the chapters down since they are too mature for this forum, and as Elphie pointed out, warnings are simply not enough. Sorry, if I offended anyone, it was never my intention.

However if anyone did wish to read the fic it can be found here:

www.fanfiction.net/s/4717577/1/The_Things_We_Dont_Plan_For

[fridamoonbeam]

Okies, so I talked to a few people who liked the idea of my story but they were also a little younger and some were uncomfortable with reading more mature content, all of which I completely respect. The lovely WickedElphie helped me to edit for the masses. Comments are of course welcome ^^


Somewhere on the balcony of his Mediterranean palace watching the waves role in, upon the sand liken to crushed pearls. Night had fallen not long ago. He rested his leg upon the edge as he played his sailor's flute. The song he played was the one that the mystery girl sang him back to life with. He had done this for several weeks since. He was so sure this was the girl. His other half. But now he was not sure. Just yesterday had come another girl he knew nothing about. He was not expecting to feel anything for her. He wondered if his initial feelings were simply a result of finding her beautiful. That he couldn't deny. In the past two days he had never been so confused in his whole life.

Eric HAD met with other princesses and some girls and Italy, As part of hundreds of years in tradition to marry before his next birthday. Eric had not seen a use for the law personally; he actually found it silly that he was supposed to be betrothed before his nineteenth year. It was not that Eric was not open to love. He was, in fact, very much a romantic at heart. He had always mused that there was this one amazing girl out there somewhere…someone who exuded spirit, passion, warmth; brave, with a loving heart and funny too. He had mostly encountered empty headed, self-centered brats, who were only nice to him based upon the fact that he was to be King of Italy.

And now here he was at a crossroads sort to speak. Hearing Grimsby's advice it seemed more clear to him. There was no reason to argue. The Italian was seeing Grimsby's point of view more and more clearly, something he was not sure would ever happen. But it must have been that Eric was growing up in a way he didn't think he needed too, he supposed

If he found the voice, he'd lose Ariel. That was not something he wanted to risk. He might always feel something for his rescuer, but would it really be love or just his desire to meet her?

It was different with Ariel. Amazing. She couldn't even speak and yet the kindness in her smile and light in her eyes spoke volumes. He really had not been this happy in a long time, in a way that surprised himself. She was more than he ever needed. He glanced up looking at her in the large glass window as she combed her hair out with a fork. The moonlight shined upon her revealing her smile. It was still so strange that she did such a thing. But he mused it was harmless. Maybe a fork worked better than a comb. He really did not put much thought into his own hair. Only when Carlotta would slick it back into a pompadour wondering why he insisted upon looking like a beach bum. Either way he was not about to judge.

As his gaze was fixed on her she turned away from the window. Eric signed. He couldn't do it. Risking losing her was out of the question. And it was time that he let everything else go. He narrowed his blue eyes on the fife in his hand, no longer would he let himself be held back. He tossed the flue into the sea, ridding himself of what may have been. Whoever his rescuer was, he was not willing to lose Ariel for her. He turned looking up at her window, starting to feel nervous as he began to walk inside the castle and tell her what he felt.

Ariel went back over to the window to see if by any chance her prince was still outside. He wasn't. She sighed running the dinglehopper through her long red hair. They had come so close tonight. She could feel it and knew he did too. When they were floating along in the rowboat. The mood, the music, (which was almost ruined by Scuttle), was perfect. There was no big grand ball or gala, it was just the two of them, kind of. When he took her hand in his, saying her name, differently then when he had just been guessing it a moment before or when he learned it. He stared into her eyes, his eyes said more than words could.

If only the boat hadn't capsized. If only he would know how she ached behind her smile. How she was dying to tell him 'It's me! I saved you!" But he seemed torn. Was it only her voice he loved. That he somehow was taken with her being a 'mystery girl' who sang to him.

No! He DID love her. He had too. Still there wasn't much time left.

As she stood at the windows edge looking into the diamond sky, resting her small elbows with her jaw in her hands, Scuttle flapped his wings. "Ariel, kid!" the seagull called out as he landed his orange webbed feet on the ledge. "So, has he kissed you yet?" he wanted to check in with her.

Ariel dropped her gaze, a frown coming to her pretty features as she shook her head.

"Oh... Sheesh I'm sorry kiddo... But hey there's still time. Now let's see what can we do to get that boy to pucker up?" Scuttled wondered placing a wing under his chin in thought as he paced back and forth upon the ledge. He snapped his wing, "I got it!" he said excitedly.

Ariel was curious as to what Scuttle had in mind, her face eyed him ready to hear what his plan was.

"Okay, Ariel. See, what I think is that you should go see the boy right now." Scuttle went on to explain, "That boy is fallin'for you. fallin' hard. You know it. I know it. The only one who doesn't know it is him! All you gotta do is give him another chance to figure it out.".

Ariel's eyes went wide listing to the bird. Could that really work? Well, if was worth a try she supposed.

Eric knocked on Ariel's door, after moments of standing there he mused she must have been sleeping. It would rude to wake her. He would talk to her first thing in the morning.

The Italian prince entered his room thinking of what he should say to her. Sitting at the edge of his bed removing his black boots, rubbing his feet. He then began to take off his cornflower blue shirt, but left his pants. The nights in Italy were often so warm it wasn't really needed to wear more at night. At home. On his sailing trips, THAT would just be uncomfortable. With how much was on his mind with Ariel, he had forgotten to lock his door.

He crawled into his overstuffed bed, wiggled around to make himself comfortable. The Italian tossed back in forth to lying on his back. He had a hard time trying to sleep. He closed his eyes telling himself he'd sleep soon and that he would speak to Ariel in the morning. He then let his mind go free to an almost state of sleeping.

Eric opened his eyes to the sound of light pressing upon his wooden floor. It was Ariel beside his bed. He sat up. "Ariel, what are you doing in here?" he asked confused. Was this a dream? Surely she wouldn't come in here now?

Ariel looked at him, her eyes so gentle, nervous but bold. The very picture of radiance. She leaned in and kissed his forehead.

Eric felt Ariel's warm soft lips bestow kisses on his face. He closed his eyes. He just welcomed it. Having her near, in this way amplified the feelings he had in the row boat ten fold. He should have stopped this, but the setting and the feelings he had been restraining, yet were pounding into him was making him throw allinhibitionss away. He then leaned in to kiss her, they locked into it enjoying the other's taste.

It was surreal. This had to be a dream. There was no way that this was happening after only two days. Even if he did love her.

Eric pulled away then confessed, "I love you, Ariel."

She wished she could have told him, but that was the deal Her voice for her legs.Ursulaa never promised her voice after he kissed her, just that she could stay human. She smiled sweetly at her running her hands through his thick black waves, feeling the strong lines of his jaw then dropped her hand to his heart as a way of saying 'I love you too, Eric.'

He smiled at her, revealing his dimples before he began to kiss her again.

All the feelings between them were finally coming to the surface...



Ursula had come to the shore. First time in a long time. Her body was not girthy, or consist of tentacles.

She possessed slender curves, and porcelain skin, unlike that of her usual lavender. Her hair was silky, came to her waist and was the shade of the inside of a coffin on a moonless night. He face was stunning, big violet eyes, pouty red lips. She elegantly walked across the beach by 'princey poo's castle singing with her darling little niece's voice. 'This has to work' She knew if he heard her song then he'd be her puppet. Hmm, a gorgeous young sailor at her every command? She might have fun with that later. But now was down to business.

She continued her slow walk singing Ariel's song, hair and cloak blowing in the wind, water splashing just at her feet.

Something was missing...

Where was that fool anyway?

She glanced up looking at the palace. A scowl on her new beautiful face. Of all the times he's not out her moping about 'the voice' is when her plans need to be in action! Well, it's a good thing she planned ahead. She then pulled a vile out from her gown and poured in on her head, making her like the air. She floated up to see what exactly the boy was up too. She searched around each and every window, then came to one with quite an interesting scene...

So Triton's little baby managed to charm the stud muffin without her voice. Well, Ursula should have seen that coming. He was eighteen, Italian and a sailor.

The foolish person had kissed her. And then some....

Bah! Oh, great. So this meant the deal was off and that Ariel would have her happy little ending. Ursula efforts in this scheme would have been for nothing.

Or wait?

This might turn out to be of use to her more than what she had originally planned... Daddy won't be happy about this.... Not to mention Ariel's voice DID belong to Ursula, that was the exchange for her legs, and the sea witch never promised it back after the kiss....

And with that she went back to her ocean lair to devise a new plan.

*****

The sunlight peered through the curtains of Eric's bedroom. He breathed in feeling utter contentment thinking of what happened the night before. Perhaps it was a dream. But he had the rest of his life to find out, didn't he? That is if Ariel did say yes. Eric mused she would, to which he smirked at the thought of when he'd speak to her. He began to open his eyes slowly, looking down upon the red haired maiden lying on top of him with her face nuzzled against his chest. His eyes went as wide as they did yesterday when, the girl currently sleeping on him soundly, jumped over the ravine.

He ran a hand through his hair. Just what had he done??? Of course he loved her, but he should've been more responsible. He should have waited until they married. It was the right thing to do. He also had duties and responsibilities that he just let go of. Sure, he had felt these feelings festering inside him since he found her. But he had no excuse whether he thought it was a dream or not.

There was already gossip about them spreading through the castle, much of which wasn't very nice about Ariel. Now thanks to him, they had a reason to think it. He drew his dark brows in thinking. He could make this right. Just do as he planned. He would ask her to marry him. No one had to know. He hated people talking about him, all his life, but he excepted it to an extent, but he couldn't put her through the same thing.

No. He'd ask her when she woke, then he could make arrangements today. It might seem odd to marry so quickly. But he figured the sooner the better...

Still, having her close, feeling her soft skin. He pulled her a little closer for a moment Now that he had her, it amazed him there was ever doubt. "Ariel, love, wake up." he told her moving her a little.

Ariel had been sleeping blissfully as Eric was a moment ago.
Eric loved her as she knew he would. Going to Ursula was a hard decision to make. It was easier after what seemed like so much of who she was, and a part of her life went up in a fiery blast. Her daddy had destroyed the years worth of treasures and trinkets. It wasn't so much that, as that she felt the need to hide them in the first place. She had done nothing wrong. In a way her father's distaste for Eric had been his way of saying he wouldn't accept her. To the day she still didn't have a good explanation as to why he thought humans were so bad. If you love someone shouldn't you try to understand and listen to them?

Everything she said seemed to be wrong to him. Did he even notice how that broke her heart? She loved her father, she truly did, but that was so painful. She needed to be with someone who could understand her, and was going to do what she needed to to make it happen. And she had. Eric had kissed her. And more.

Opening her eyes, although her blue orbs were groggy, her smiled was glowing, she looked up at him.

"Oh, good, you're awake. Listen-" he was cut off as she gave him a morning kiss. "Nice..." but he mused it would not be wise to do that now. He smiled nervously at her as he got up from the bed.

Ariel sat up, her hair in a tangle looking at him, giggling inwardly.

"Well, erm... Ariel. I need to talk to you about what happened last night." Eric said with nervous courage. "I just wanted to let you know that I'm sorry I let things go so far. It was wrong of me. But I also know I would not have done it if I did not truly love you."

Ariel was a little confused as to why Eric was apologizing. She stood up and walked over to him.

"But what I was wanting to say is that... you've taken me by complete surprise. At first I wasn''t sure what it was about you that drew me in. You're beautiful definitely, but there is more to you than meets the eye. I can't say I've ever felt this close.." or gotten this close. "to anyone in my whole life. Which is why I need to ask you something." He said as he while bent on one knee. "Ariel, would you marry me?" he said looking up at her. He then mused he probably should have changed out of his pajama pants first.

Ariel smiled brightly looking at him, she dropped to her knees as well and hugged him nodding enthusiastically, then gave him a kiss.

He kissed her back. "You've made me so happy. If it's alright with you we can get married today."

Ariel gave him a small smile and a nod.

"Wonderful, now we need to get ready since Grimsby would be the man to talk to about the arrangements."

And so Eric made sure that Ariel got back to her room with no one being the wiser to her visiting him the night before. At least to his knowledge.

Ariel came back to her little guest room, or little by castle standards. She smiled to herself as she began to spin around, causing her nightgown to flare out while her hair tossed around. This really was beyond her wildest dreams. She went over to the vanity to fluff her red hair, as nervous smile came to her pretty face.

Sebastian awoke from his place on the large pillow, rubbing his head with his claw. His eyes lids were still heavy but he noticed Ariel looking very happy. He went as fast as his little red legs could carry him to her and asked, "Did da boy kiss you?"

Ariel smiled at him then did another spin.

Sebastian was so relieved. He wondered if dat boy was ever gonna do it. He seemed so dead set on da voice, but it was also unda'nyable how he looked at Ariel. The other reason for his joy was that it was sweet to see Ariel basking in da glow of her dreams comin' true. But 'dere still was da matter of da king. He was not going to be happy about dis. Maybe he would change his mind once he saw how happy Ariel was. Sebastian at least hoped, otherwise he was crab cakes for sure! He'd better prepare himself since it wasn't going to be a pleasant talk with him. He better think REALLY hard on how to present it. He looked at Ariel in all her happiness. He smiled, accepting that he was turning out to be a soft shell indeed. Still, he wondered what exactly was it dat made da boy change his mind....


***

Chapter two:


Eric gathered the sheets off his bed. Stuffing the fine fabric into a night sack he would take sailing. He'd have to get rid of it before anyone found out that Ariel had been in the room with him.

Max wandered into his pet's room wondering why he was late for their morning exercise. The sheepdog had noticed himself putting on a few extra pounds. He should probably stop eating whatever his pet gave him under the table on top of his dinner. The pooch tilted his head looking at his pet and why he seemed so tense.

Eric turned as he heard someone enter, he inhaled sharply turning his head relieved to see it was only Max. "Oh boy, you scared me for a second there...."he told the sheepdog. Eric had often encountered teasing from the other sailors with how he spoke to his pet as if it could actually talk back. But it turned out that Max was one of the best listeners, and was probably his best friend, until the last few days that is. Although, he was good friends with many of the sailors, no one could compare to man's best friend, he mused.

Max looked at what Eric was up to, then his nose kicked in. Oh.... Eric had been spending a lot of time close to Ariel. He could tell, he was a dog after all. Oh, he knew she'd make a great mate for him! He was happy Eric finally realized that. Eric would have sooner if he would have just sniffed her rear, but humans seem to get so offended by it, even though it was the best way to tell you a lot about someone.

Eric began to dress in his navy and red navel suit. He liked it better than most of his dressy clothing, since it was more simple and practical than the others that had so much ornate detail. As he smoothed out the lines in his suit looking into the mirror, he sighed, still not believing what happened the night before. So many thoughts flowing through his mind, about his night, the duties he didn't honor-- all disappointed with himself. "Oh, Max.... I feel like such a slime ball..."

Max tilted his head at Eric. He was a smart canine and could put two and two together fairly easily. Eric was feeling guilty about being so close with Ariel when Eric hadn't a wedding first, or what ever that long thing was where humans did a lot of talking about how it's important to love one other. Dogs didn't do that. If you cared for another why should you have some big party about it? Shouldn't loving someone be enough? Oh well. He went over and rubbed his face against his pet's thigh affectionately. He wanted to tell Eric to not worry. He could just think of it as an insight on what the rest of his life with Ariel would be like, that's all.

Eric patted Max's head, smirking. "Hmph.... I really wish I knew what you were thinking..."

You are not the only one, Max thought wryly

Ariel was changing for the day. She put on the black and blue dress from yesterday. It was pretty and simple, but she wasn't going to wear all of the the petticoats OR the corset. She didn't see the point in so many layers. Why did female humans wear such uncomfortable things? Men's clothes seemed so much more simple. Yes, she liked the poofy pink dress, it was nice for a change. But it got so uncomfortable and heavy after wearing it for a while. But maybe that was only for special occasions?

She didn't wear the big blue bow in her hair like yesterday. But her crimson colored strands were a mess from her night before. Instead, she combed it out with the dinglehopper letting her waves flow free. She liked her hair long, but unlike most of her sisters she didn't put much effort into it. Only when Attina would try and brush it out. Poseidon knew Arista voiced her opinion about it, over, and over again. Alana styled it up with pearls that time she and her went with Pearl to Eel-lec-tric city.

Eh! Pearl. Ariel really couldn't bring herself to dislike anyone, but she came pretty close with her.

But the shallow blonde mermaid didn't matter. It was her wedding day! She spun once more then came to a stop in realization.

She was going to be queen.

She automatically felt stress building in her. She was never going to be the ruler of Atlantica. That was Attina's deal. Ariel was always skipping her lessons in state-craft, instead she was mostly getting into trouble with Flounder and Urchin.

She wanted to be a good queen. But she felt a little unprepared. Maybe she was too impulsive for her own good? Well, that was going to have to change. She was going to be married today after all. It was time she needed to really make an effort to put others first. That's what selfless queens do right? She knew Eric was someone who thought of other people before his desires, which was one thing that really drew her to him.

It was not that she tried to be out rightly selfish, she would just get caught up in the thing she wanted, that’s all. Things were going to be different. But a good different she mused.

She had found her soul mate, and come to the place she had been fascinated by since as long as she could remember. She could still have adventures since she knew Eric wanted to as well. Oh he must have been so many places, being a sailor. If she had her voice she ask him about all of them.

Ariel then paused hearing knocking upon her door, she went over to open it finding that it was Carlotta. Ariel smiled at her.

"Good morning, deary. Don'tcha look lovely? I was just checking to see if there was anything you needed. You must have been sleeping so heavy this morning..." Carlotta had come earlier, but thought it that the girl they now knew as Ariel was still sound asleep, which she she had been, just not in her room.

Eric was walking down the hallway with Max by his side and the sack in the other as Carlotta and Ariel were coming out of the cozy room Ariel had been staying in.

Carlotta glanced over to the Italian sailor prince shaking her round head as furrowed her brows when she noticed something else. "Oh, Eric! Why don't you comb your hair back? It's hard to see your handsome face with all that hair around. And just WHEN was the last time you shaved?" Carlotta mused as she licked her palm proceeding to slick Eric's hair back, forming into a pompadour "There! Now you look perfect!" Carlotta said proudly.

Eric was about to protest, but there really was no fighting Carlotta on this. She was a busy-body, he knew. But he couldn't deny the woman had good intentions. He would put his foot down when he had to, but if it was a minor thing, he wouldn't raise a fuss. Besides it wasn't like he couldn't shake it out later...

His eyes glanced up at it, hearing in his head the other sailors busting a gut over it. His face contorted into an annoyed expression as he glanced over to his soon to be wife, wondering if she found it amusing.

Ariel giggled inwardly at Carlotta’s attentions to Eric. He looked like a little boy being told to behave. The woman was worse then all her sisters put together!

Carlotta noticed the bag in Eric's hand. "Oh, is that your dirty laundry, Eric? Let me take that from you. I was on my way to the washing area anyhow."

Eric clutched the bag, maybe a little too tightly. The wash women of the Palace were the worst gossips of all. Maria knew, if they had a piece of news it would be all over Italy within an hour! He smiled, trying to hide his anxiousness. "No. i-it's not laundry. It's..." Eric looked around trying to find an excuse, though he hated lying to Carlotta, but he knew the truth would devastate her. He glanced over just in time to see Captain Sayers walking down the hallway. "It's for Captain Sayers. That's right."

Sayers in appearance was a very large man, not portly by any means, just very large. He was born in a poor arjust outside ide of Rome. He had never known his father, and hadn't really cared to look, especially after his mother passed away when he had just turned twelve. From then on, he was on his own. In that time Sayers had learned to have the shrewd resourcefulness needed to survive in an urban environment and could read people very well. He worked up the ranks on vessels since he was young. Being tall for his age helped in getting work. He was very intelligent which surprised most, but one had to be in order head such huge operations. His men had become like a family to him in a way.

He glanced up as Eric spoke of him. "Give me what, lad?" he said perplexed.

"Oh, just your night sack you forgot the other day. I was going to bring it back to you." Eric said.

Captain Sayers raised a brow looking at Eric studying the boy. He looked to the ladies, in particular the little red head. Cute thing. He brought his gaze back to Eric, the Italian's body language as well. Oh..... He knew what was going on. The large man did his best to suppress a smirk. He played along. "Oh, I forgot thanks."

Eric nodded then turned to the ladies, "Carlotta I was wondering if you if by any chance you've seen Grimsby this morning. Ariel and I wanted to discuss something with him."

"No, I haven't yet. But I could go get him, and meet you in the throne room." She turned to the girl. "Ariel, why don't you come with me. That hair of your's is a little out of control." she sweetly scolded the mute maiden

As the ladies made their way down the hallway, Sayers just turned back to Eric and began to chuckle.

Eric raised a brow. "What's so funny?"

Sayers pointed at him with his unlit cigarette. "You're in love."

Eric tried to contain the blush he felt building in his cheeks. "I don't know what you mean." he said seriously trying to be careful to not let the truth slip.

"Okay, I believe you." Sayers said as he laughed once more. "Boy, I've been a sailor for twenty five years now... I can tell when a man has fallen head over heels, even more when he wasn't supposed too."

Eric diverted his blue eyes around; he leaned in closer to him. "You can't tell anyone. Not yet." he told the Captain.

Sayers just shook his head. Maybe it was how he grew up, or that he was more worldly than most. But he didn't see the harm of two people finding each other, regardless of station. The world had much bigger problems. "So what do you plan to do about this now?" he asked.

Eric then told the man. "Well, I asked Ariel to marry me and she agreed.... You were right. I do love her, that I do know."

Sayers nodded, "Aye, so when were you thinkin' this wedding would 'appen?"

"Today." Eric replied

Sayers frowned "Urgh. Now that means we can't have a little pre-wedding celebration with the boys... Paris would have been fun. I wonder if that Babette is still at Le Fleur Noir . That broad was a wonder. Like Rosalita in Tortuga.... You remember Rosalita don't you? When you were eleven and we had 'the talk'."

Eric turned the same shade of red as the hair of the girl who had just left. "No. None of that." he stated firmly.

"Suit yourself." he told him. Though he had to admit the red head was a pretty little thing. Too skinny for his taste, really. Too young, too. For a companion he preferredred women to little girls. Women who had lived in the world a little, and knew their way around it. He spent enough time giving directions as it was.

Eric cocked an eyebrow, "I'll survive." he said sarcastically shaking his head. "In the mean time, I need you to take care of something for me." Eric said handing the big man the bag.

Sayers looked down at the sack in his large hands. "What's this?"

"My bed sheets.... I didn't want to take nay chances...."

Sayers nodded once more, "Aye, it be dirty laundry. No problem, you shall never lay your eyes on it again.... Though, I wonder what the ol beanpole would have to say."

"He'll know the important parts soon enough... that I love her and we're getting married. I'll tell him the rest later. Just not now, it would be a bad time. You won't right?" Eric felt like a snake. But it was no one's business that Ariel had come to see him, and he couldn't invite people to attack her.

"The way I see it is that it's not my tale to tell." Sayers replied.

Eric smiled, he had known that he could always rely on his captain.

"That way I can fully appreciate the look on his face when you tell." Sayers said as he cracked up laughing tossing the bag over his shoulder. "Nice little hair do you have there by the way...."

Eric's face drained of color. He shook his head as he made his way down the stairs.

******

Once down stairs; Eric told Grimsby that he and Ariel wished to be married that day. Grimsby was taken a little back by the announcement. He knew the boy loved the girl, but there was so much planning that went into a wedding. Not to mention the two had only really been courting for a very short time. But it also sounded like something Eric would do, the Englishman mused. He reassured the prince that everything would take place as he wished.

Carlotta took Ariel's hand and began to lead her away, "Oh deary we have a lot of work to do. First thing is that you need a gown and veil and a tiara and a..." Carlotta went on, not even taking breaks for a breath.

The day was a busy one indeed. It went on with the planning of the festivities. From the flowers, to the cake, to the music to the linens.

The dressmaker that fitted Ariel was astounded to find someone who's waist was the same size as their neck. It was a lovely to be sure. The purist white Italian silk, large sleeves which were considered quite fashionable, sea green lining along the bodice of the dress which clung to Ariel like a starfish. Her crimson waves were adorned with tulle veil and a simple yet elegant tiara.

"Alright, Ariel I think we have it." they put the full length mirror in front of the mute girl and Ariel smiled brightly seeing her wedding gown. It was mumore poofyufy and complex than anything she was used to wearing, but she felt very beautiful in it. She picked up the edge of the dress and did a small spin to which schastenedted for moving too much. She bit her lip and frowned, but it didn't last long. She was so happy, there was no time for that.

Eric put his best effort into not thinking of how much he didn't like dressing up. White silk jacket, lined with gold intricate trim on his high collar, down the sides of his abdomen and across his his chest complete with tails. Gold caps upon his shoulders with fringe. Gold and white cummerbund worn in place of a belt, and a royal blue sash hung across him. Tight fitting trousers with a golden stripe lined down the sides and a pair of tall black Italian leather boots-- all tailored to a tee. But to him, it dressing up was more of a chore than anything else. Today however was different. He was going to marry the girl he loveIf he didn'tt't feel like a complete scum bag, than he might have been more at ease. However.... He DID love her. He wouldn't have allowed just anyone to get so close to him. Though, that didn't make him feel any better....

The staff worked as quickly as possible, while Ariel and Eric were tended to by the servants, making sure nothing could be out of place. Every soul in the castle was putting forth every possible effort into the upcoming nuptials.

After Ariel's final fitting for her gown., she glanced over at the busy seamstresses who was thanking Maria that the prince had chosen a slender bride. It was difficult enough getting the wedding gown together in such short notice.

While there wasn't someone fitting her for something, messing with hair or asking her about every littdetail Arieliel realized she hadn't told Flounder yet! Well, not really like she could 'tell' per say. She mused have been so caught up in her excitement and all the planning that she forgot.

She snuck out with Sebastian to where she had first come up as a human. After all, she had spent enough time exploring sunken ships and escaping her father that she had fully mastered how to become 'invisible'.

Sebastian informed Flounder that Eric had kissed Ariel and wanted to marry her.

"That's great!" Flounder exclaimed as he jumped up from the water and did a spin. He was thrilled for his best friend and that her dreams were coming true. And that she wasn't going to belong to Ursula. But Flounder would really miss her too. She was such a good friend. It wasn't going to be the same without her, but he also knew sometimes things worked out that way. One thing he knew is that they'd always be friends.

A dead silence came upon the waters as a small wave emerged. Ariel looked into the distance. She squinted her blue eyes to focus. Her jaw dropped. Why she was surprised she wasn't sure. But she wasn't prepared for this.

King Triton came forth from the sea. In the desperate search for his youngest, he found out through gossip that Ariel had sold her voice to the sea witch to be with the prince in the world above.

Flounder had not said a word about it and Sebastian had been with Ariel the whole time.

Among Ursula's many talents was manipulation. And it had worked like a charm. The whole kingdom knew of Ariel's stunt in becoming human. Most thought the girl was far too reckless and, well, a bit off for her desires.

They were all talking.

Triton was just... hurt. He wasn't really sure why Ariel was so disobedient. It seemed like no matter what he tried she just pulled away from him. Didn't she know how much she scared him with things like this? What it would do to him if he lost her?

He was very angry with her. As he rode the wave glancing down at her, before anything could be said, or unsaid. Triton turned his child back into a mermaid and pulled her under the waves.

Ariel looked down at her new form, old form for that matter, and fought tears she felt coming. She looked at him, her eyes drained of warmth, in place was sorrow and contempt.

"You have disobeyed me for the last time." he began. "You ran away, and went to my mortal enemy for help...." he shook his head, trying to keep his temper in check. Who knows what things Ursula could have done

'But I was only risking myself', Ariel thought wishing she could make an argument for herself.

It's not as if he liked punishing her. He didn't. But her disregard for others as well as herself left with few options. He then sent another beam from the trident to the princess.

Ariel was confused as to what the last thing her father had placed upon her. She looked at him for an answer.

"You are to be confined to the sea. This is where you belong..."

Ariel's eyes widened in horror, she couldn't believe it. She swam as fast as she could, only she couldn't break the surface. Her small fists pounding at it, with only little trickles of water splashing above. Like an invisible wall was put up.

This couldn't be happening!

****

It was time to board the Royal Galleon.

Eric pushed away all thoughts that had been eating away at him all day. There was nothing he could do now. He'd have to accept his mistake and not dwell on the past. That he had done something so slimy to someone he loved made him feel a little unglued. But this WAS his wedding day. He should focus on his future. He was sure they'd have a wonderful life together.

He turned at the knock on his door. "Come in." he told them adjusting hcuff-linkink.

"Your majesty.... I have some bad news, sir. It's seems your bride has gone... missing." said a very nervous servant.

Eric looked at them in disbelief. "What do you MEAN she's missing?"

"Your grace, we've looked everywhere and there's no sign of her."

Eric couldn't for the life of him believe this. He looked at his servant studying them, searching them for possible lies. He found none. "Well, you all haven't been looking hard enough. Search everywhere. Ask around the village; if anyone has seen a beautiful, mute, girl with long wavy red hair. If you don't hear anything, then we must conduct an investigation" Eric told them as he walked pasted the servant. He wasn't convinced Ariel would leave on her own free will. Someone may have taken her in hopes that the Italian royal would pay them handsomely in exchange for her life. He didn't have a good feeling about this.

****

Ursula cackled swimming around her cauldron before she floated to the nook in her lair.

A smug smirk came to her painted red lips. This could be a delight, indeed. She knew the whole kingdom was speaking of Ariel’s little adventure as a human. Though not of her taking Ursula’s advice about ‘body langualiterallylly and kissing the prince before he kissed her...or what had happened after.

Ursula moved the ingredients to the side of her cupboard. She reached for the scrolls that she had first studied with to master her black arts. One of the scrolls was onyx in color, and written in the brightest red, most likely the blood of a tortured soul.

Was this possible? She couldn't count her caviar before it hatched, but this wonderful little find she couldn't rule out. She smiled looking upon it.

Flotsam and Jetsam swam over to their queen, and asked simultaneously, “What are-“

“We-“

“To-“

“Do-“

“Boss?”

"Just watch and you'll see....” Ursula purred.

[fridamoonbeam]

Alright, here's the third chapter! I hope that you'll be taken by surprise.

Comments are always nice



"Nothing?" Eric questioned as he flopped back into his crushed velvet covered seat, engraved a large E upon the mahogany head. Sitting in the office, books of many different topics, maps that read to the corners of the earth, all furnished. It was the place his father spent many hours during his life as a ruler.

Eric called forth his trusted advisors as well as close friends. He ran a calloused hand down the front of his mouth, slightly agitated. It had been almost four months since he had seen Ariel last. After being informed of her disappearance he personally went out in search of her and nothing was found. After they checked the village, then sent word around the outer areas. The prince consulted with other sailors, asking if by some chance they had run across her, or she was taken aboard. They sent word everywhere. Where was the girl who was like the shimmer of the wind upon the water? Each possible time his hopes were lifted, they became subdued as a tide after a great storm. It just boggled his mind that there was no sign of her. Like she had vanished into thin air.

"Precisely, your majesty." Adamo, head of the royal police replied regretfully. "I can assure you we have been searching everywhere for her."

Eric nodded, "I know you have, and for that I'm very grateful." He rose from his chair, and walked over to the window behind his desk. Blue eyes looking upon the beach. The fine debre of crushed pebbles stretched over the mainland, while the brilliant aqua brushed against the shore. As much as the beach meant to him before, there was a new sentiment attached. Ironic, really. He was in a similar state searching for the 'voice' with all his efforts leading no where. What was he doing wrong? He was so close to her, and yet she slipped away. As he began to think further, Max interrupted his thoughts letting out a bark before sprinting. Eric, although was fairly fast, had a difficult time trying to catch up to the sheepdog. Black boots pounding the sand wondering what had gotten into that mutt. Just as he spend around the corner Max bounced around as if he had found something amazing. Eric didn't quite understand until he lifted his gaze. A girl was sitting on the boulder. Little did he know at that moment the girl sitting there would mean to him what she did now.

Eric looked back to the men, pulling himself out of his pondering, "There must be something we're missing..... It may be possible that if someone has her, they are hoping I'll pay more to get her back by not coming forward with a threat right away....." Eric mused aloud

The prince looked so troubled. It was almost painful to watch."Your majesty? If I may offer advice for your benefit?"

"What is it?" Eric inquired

"Seeing as your birthday will be in roughly five months...."

Eric raised a brow, "Yes.... go on." he encouraged

"It may be best for you to call an end to this investigation and persue another possible bride."

Eric just stared in disbelief. Was he serious? "No." he stated without the slightest hesitation. "I know we'll find her it's just a matter of-"

"Time? I am sorry. But time is the very problem, and you know that, sir"


Eric shook his head. "No, no. There has to be more. A piece to the puzzle we could be overlooking."

Grimsby looked to the other men, seeing the expressions on their faces. This was not coming together well. "Perhaps we could meet some time tomorrow. After all there is much to tend to. Good day, gentlemen."

Captain Sayers shook his head leaving along with them. What was with this kid and only wanting broads that didn't even stay around for a nice weekend?

As the other men left, Grimsby knew that with certain subjects it was best to speak with Eric one on one. He could understand the young royal's frustration. He was taking more and more duties as far as the kingdom went. That may create a tremendous amount of stress on anyone. He still tried to make time to help with the vessels. Searching for his love seemed to be pulling him in so many directions. That had been most of his life, the ruler died so young they were so desperate to make Eric an amazing one. He was only seven at the time. "Eric.... As delightful of a young lady Ariel was.... you are aware that this investigation hasn't moved any further since the first day."

Eric sighed, "I know...." Grimsby still didn't know about Ariel coming to Eric in the middle of the night. No one knew, except for Captain Sayers and Eric wasn't counting on the man to just blab the whole situation. Eric had been feeling guilt building from his evening of strong amorous desires. Why was he ever convinced that was dream? He wasn't sure. Maybe he believed as Grimsby insisted every now and then, that his imagination ran wild. Wild? Yes. But far from imaginary. He hadn't slept the same since. His bed just now seemed much too large, he hadn't noticed that. As he woke to her gentle sweet smile, he didn't realize how cold he really was. He knew what people were saying. 'That he could never be happy, always looking for what he couldn't have.' One minute he's in love with a girl who brought him back to conscienceless, the next he finds one who can't speak at all. That his efforts finding the girl were all for not.


"Then for your own sake, please let it go...." the Englishman said gently

"I can't." Eric affirmed to him resting his hand on the window's seal.

"But you know you can not go on like this forever." he shook his head. "Eric, it was not long ago that you were staunch in the matter of choosing another maiden to be your bride."

Eric's brows twisted remembering his words, "I'm going to find that girl.... and I'm going to marry her..."


This proclamation was made just before Ariel emerged from the shadows into the dining hall clad in the baby pink ball gown, leaving him breathless caught in a dumbfounded stare.

He refocused his attention "It's different now. I have never been more sure of anything...." Eric told him. " Besides; Ariel and I WERE going to be married"

"But you are not now."

A harsh reality set in once more. Eric stiffed his chin striding away from the thin man.

"Where is it that you are going?" Grimsby questioned.

"For a walk. I need to think." Eric replied as emotionless as possible.

****

In the three months, Ariel felt like she was in the wrong place even more than before. What was once called home became her spacious blue prison. The sea's waters seemed bitter now, and she began to find resentment in herself she didn't know. The mermaid spent her days trying to convince her father that he had made a horrible mistake. When she traded her voice she didn't know how much she would miss it. She couldn't argue or express herself like she had in the past. A big piece of herself was missing and she had nothing in exchange.

She would often then try to forget her troubles by swimming along the costal shell. Exploring just hadn't been the same, not while she lived with the knowledge that her explorations were so limited. She would come close to the surface touching it, looking through the clear blue just above her head.

The redhead had to go back to her grotto. One would have thought that going back would be like reopening a wound and spiking it with salt water. But was always the place she had always known as her sanctuary. Refuge, and safety to be lost in her secret loves. It was as she remembered it last. She remembered each one of her treasures and how she came upon it. The big round one, (which was a globe) that she tried to sneak pasted Attina. The painting of the woman lost in her thoughts gazing upon the fire, was one she found inside a trunk. And of course she couldn't forget when she found the dinglehopper and the snarfblatt. Her blue eyes scanned over it, all the destruction and shattered things reflected what she felt inside. She did take a piece with her. The marble incarnation of her lover's face. The expression of stately arrogance didn't match his. But it was his face none the less. In the castle she hid it under her sponge pillow looking at it when everyone else slept. Wishing he was really with her, like the night just before she became trapped. Oh what a night it was....

"Did someone take my shell comb?" Aquata asked in a huff tossing belongings around carelessly while a flock of bubbles echoed the movements.

Hearing Aquata's obvious annoyance Ariel in a slight panic stuffed Eric's 'face' under her pillow before anyone could see it.

"Arista, are taking my stuff again?" Aquata asked folding her arms across her blue shell clad chest.


"Not anything in this room is your's, Aquata. Besides do you THINK I want algie in my hair?" Arista retorted styling her signature blond tress so very chic way, falling over her eye in a come hither fashion.

In the past year Arista had traded some of her former ditziness for a sharp tongue and cutting remarks that had more bite than an angry shark. Ariel wasn't quiite sure of the reason for the change. And she wasn't sure she liked it either

"I've got five clams on Arista.... she's gotten pretty mean this year." Andrina remarked with an amused smirk coming to her pixie blonde head as slightly elbowed Alana in her side.

"Like she's anyone to talk! She stole my sea-kelp moisturizer." Alana whined looking into the coral mirror poking at parts of her face thinking all the salt in the water was drying her skin out.

Ariel sighed silently, as if she had another way. She slipped out of her room, tiring of her sisters bickering.


"Alright, alright. I think there's been enough drama today. You all keep this up; Dad's not going to let us go to Crimson Tide." Attina told them.

"Okay, just give me a minute." Aquata continued to search for her comb."

"You think they'll be a lot of boys there?" Adella asked hopefully turning her head causing her double seapony tail to bounce along with the water.

Aquata rolled her eyes. Couldn't Adella think of anything else? Just then as she tossed Ariel's pillow aside she glanced down at a... face? "What in the sea...?"

"What is it?" Andrina asked swimming over to the sister beside Ariel's large shell bed. "Oh...."

"Oh what?" Alana asked curiously.

"This must be the guy that Ariel traded her voice for. Remember when Flounder told us he found it after Ariel saved the human?" Attina said gathering the 'face' in her hands.

"Oh, he's cute!" Adella said surprised seeing it for the first time.

Andrina rolled her eyes, "You think EVERYONE is cute."

Alana shrugged, "I dunno, kind of have to agree... for a human I mean." the black haired beauty quickly corrected herself.

"He's okay, I guess." Arista didn't want to admit that she DID find the face nice looking, it was more out of her shear stubbornness that she didn't out rightly admit it. In truth; she was honestly a little jealous in what Ariel was willing to go to achieve her dream. Arista was also a little relieved that not everything worked out in Ariel's favor, like it had so many times in the past. Arista spent so much time perfecting her image and her status in Atlantica social scene, she desired adventures like Ariel, but she was a bit stubborn when it came to being seen as less than perfect. Ariel just seemed to have everything handed to her. Even this boy who wanted to marry her after two days!

Andrina tilted her head looking at the face, "I still don't think dad should've done that."

Attina looked to her fair haired sister, "What do you expect him to do? She doesn't care about the dangers she encounters."

"Another reason he's having us all 'baby sit' her?" Alana asked as she adjusted the pink comb in her hair.

"Everyone in the whole kingdom is talking about her." Adella told them

Attina pursed her lips. As reckless as she knew Ariel could be, it just fried her scales to have people talk negatively about people she loved. "He doesn't know what else to do." Attina answered. "I'm sure with time Ariel will come to see his point of view."

"Well, why can't he see HER point of view?" Andrina asked.

"She's inconsiderate. We all love her, but you how selfish she can be. It's time she grew up." Aquata glanced over to her sister. "I agree with you, but she's kind of left him with fewer and fewer choices

"How is keeping her beached going to help her learn anything?" Adella questioned

Ariel swam down the hallway unaware of her sisters discussing her, if she did hear them odds are she would have fumed, or bursted into tears. She was getting very emotional, but she mostly attributed it to missing Eric and being beached.

The mermaid rested her small form on the window, looking to the to the busy street, she looked around the sites and smells. Speaking of smells....

The aroma of the seadogs were making her nauseous. Most food did anymore. Another odd thing she noticed was that she could hardly fit into her purple usual shells. If she wasn't hungry then shouldn't she be 'loosing weight'? Maybe she was still growing? She just wished she knew what was going on with her...

Sebastian felt guilty. He tried to argue with the Sea King, but the man was more stubborn than a hammerhead. This last debacle just angered the man greatly, but as with everything the king did, it was out of his love. It still didn't seem right to him. Anyone who knew Ariel, knew she wasn't the same as she once was. A great dark wave hung over the girl's head. He knew that girl could be utterly unconcerned about the consequences of her actions, but he knew she truly felt like she belonged in the world above and that she loved that boy.

He thought maybe he should try and speak with the king again today. Poseidon knew one could only pushed the man so far, but it wasn't impossible.... right?

As he swam down the hallway, he noticed an aggregation of red locks peaking out of the side. It was Ariel to be sure. He hadn't really gotten a chance to speak with her alone for a while. "Good morning Ari-elle." he greeted the mermaid trying to be cheerful. Wait? HE was trying to cheer HER u? That was just wrong

Ariel turned her pretty head to Sebastian, giving a half hearted smile. She shrugged before the sent of the seadogs became more pungent.

"Ari-elle, are you fee-ling o'tay?" he asked noticing her distaste.

Ariel took a moment to think. Well, she had felt different, but she hadn't really mentioned it to anyone. Who knows maybe talking to Sebastian would help. Ariel then did her best to mime what she had been feeling over the last month or so

Sebastian looked to Ariel. He was a natural when he came to charades from all the parties he was used to entertaining "Oh, so food make your stomach turn. You can't fit into any'ting. You've been really emo'tional....."

It then hit the crab like a blue whale was just dropped on him.

Sebastian's eyes went as wide as they possibly could, nearly bulging out of his red casing. No, no. That couldn't be! But he had to ask, "Ari-elle? Did you and dat boy do more dan kiss?"

Ariel blushed twirling the ends of her hair in her fingers. She nodded.

Sebastian let out a nervous laugh. Then another. Then another. Then another before he broke out into a hysterical state of distress. This was a disaster! What would her father say? He was defiantly going to make a roasted crab of him now... Well, he'd kill the boy first THEN he's move onto the crab. It was all that human's fault. Why couldn't he just keep his claws to himself?!

Ariel just stared confused as to why Sebastian was becoming so unshelled.

Sebastian looked up to Ariel finally (somewhat) collecting himself, "Ari-elle, I 'tink what dat means is dat you have a guppy on da way...."

Ursula watched the scene between the crab and the little princess unfold from the yellow eyes, furtively with hostile intent. The large woman threw up her tentacles victoriously. "I knew it!" she belted triumphantly following with a cackle

It was FAR too easy. Pity. And they say teenagers don't have their uses.

Wella, wella, wella. So it looked like Ariel was knocked up, just as sea witch thought she might be.

And of course it was splendid timing for such an event. Triton was so preoccupied in Ariel's affairs. Oops! Did she use the wrong word there? Anyway, his reign was about to end in say... five months?

Flotsam and Jetsam reentered back into Ursula's dark lair, the quiet screeching of the tormented merfolk blended into the background.

"Well, boss..." Jetsam began.

"Ariel's having-"

"A guppy"

"I know, and it's marvelous." Ursula floated her large figure to the blacked encased shell she kept her ingredients and pulled the scroll our once more. "Here it is my darlings."

"In vicis of oceans ortus unus ex ocean quod unus ex brevis mos suo una quod partum unus pectus pectoris unus pectus pectoris est necessarius ut reign super utriusque universitas"

Flotsam and Jetsam just stared confused.

Ursula rolled her eyes before putting into more simple terms.

"What it means my babies, is that this little half breed that is currently residing in Ariel's little tummy will be what I need to rule not just the ocean.... but the whole world."

"How?"

"The little brat's heart would be the main ingredient. After that trident wouldn't stand a chance." Urusla said inspecting her long fingernails

"Oh!"

"Oh!"

"Yes. So as soon as Ariel delivers...." she cuckled resting her arm on the side of her cauldren. "I need that guppy..."

Granted killing a baby was a bit vulgar, but as with any war casulties were just expected, she knew it, but didn't think too much about the moral factors. It's not like it was her problem.

[WickedElphie]

Oooh-the plot thickens!

Poor lonely clueless Eric. I'd like to give him a hug.

Poor Ariel too. I really like that you have Sebastian as the person who is both able and willing to communicate with her. I liked his reaction to the news too. I tried to picture what King Triton's will be but the only image that came to my mind was his head exploding. LOL

The sisters' different takes on the situation seemed realistic. Attina disapproving but sympathetic, Adella getting caught up in the romance, Arista being kind of mean etc.

You've also got Ursula's POV down pat. I especially like her considering killing to be vulgar, but still willing to go there if it'll get the job done.

Oh, I sent you a PM concerning a minor issue. It's no big deal but if you could reply ASAP that would be helpful.

I already want to read chapter four!

[toons27]

Will Eric find Ariel?

[fridamoonbeam]

Thanks Elphie for the thoughtful reveiw Yeah, the king's reaction will be.... well, you can pretty much guess.

And I'm not gonna give much about the plot away =) But just stayed tooned since their is more to come

[fridamoonbeam]

((Okies, this is a shorter chapter, sorry! But things will pick up in chapter five. Who ever guesses the hidden quote from anohter Disney movie gets a cookie ))


A baby?

A baby?

A baby?

A baby?

Ariel's blue eyes went wide hearing this. She bit the bottom of her lip trying to register the news. Her worried brows were hidden under a curtain of crimson bangs. Why hadn’t she seen it before? But wait..... Sebastian seemed VERY sure. Oh, no wonder Eric had apologized and wanted to marry her right then and there. She didn't doubt at all that he loved her. He just wasn't the type to say things he didn't mean, one of the qualities she really liked about him. Being so close to him had confirmed everything, every reason why she had left the sea. She felt at home with him, in a way she hadn't with anyone else. She hoped he missed her the way she missed him. It was still hard to shake the uneasiness that she was having a baby without being married.

Ariel reached her hands down to her slender waist thinking about what was going on inside of her. She had no bump yet... but she would soon. It had been about four months since she was taken and merpeople took nine to have babies. To add to the stress of the situation; Ariel didn't know much about babies. She had babysat before, but this was different. There was no parent she could contact who could tell her what to do. She was going to be responsible for this little one, and she was already doubting herself. Maybe if she hadn't been so foolish and naive she wouldn't have gotten pregnant in the first place.

The red head buried her delicate face into her small hands and began to weep, shaking like seaweed in a turning tide.

"Ari-elle. Just calm down." WHAT was he saying? Sebastian could barely keep calm himself, but seeing the normally strong mermaid in such a state was disheartening. How were they to ever handle this? Of all the things to go wrong!

The thoughts flooded Ariel’s mind almost to the point mermaid was nearly drowning in them. Why wasn't she married to Eric? How was she going to tell Eric? What would happen when the baby was born....? Would the baby be a human like his or her father? There was no way a human baby could live in the ocean! If things had gone as planned and she had married Eric, she would have been excited about the life growing inside of her. But now she was trapped and had no real way to tell Eric. Unless she could try and get one of her sisters to do it…but no, then they would tell her father.

Her father!

What was he going to do when he found out? It was bad enough that she was pregnant, but the fact that she's pregnant with a human baby could only make him angrier! Oh no! What if he wanted to hurt the baby? She knew he didn't like humans, but until her father had told her it was better to let Eric drown, she’d really had no idea how cold he could be.

Ariel was honestly scared in a way she had never been, not even during all the close calls she had in the past with sharks, Evil Manta, the Sorcerer, sea monsters, but this shook her to the very core. She needed to think.

It became more and more clear to her.

She’d have to leave, before her father found out. The mermaid couldn't tell anyone except Flounder and Sebastian; she owed them that after how much they helped her. She'd have to find someone who could help her become human again. Then she, Eric and the baby could be their own family. Maybe Ursula? No. It wasn't as if she hadn’t thought about it the past four months, but with her sisters' constantly at her side she didn't really have any time to sneak off. And the more she thought about it, she felt there could not be much good to come from her. Besides, the prospect of this little one had made her more aware that this was not just about her and her happiness. She was now responsible for someone else. She was a mother to be.

When the night fell, she'd have to go.

****

"They're wrong." Eric mused aloud to himself as he would often do when something was heavily on his mind. He paced along the beach thinking about what Grimsby and Adamo had just told him. How could they just expect him to forget about Ariel? She wasn't just someone you moved on from. Couldn't they understand that?

He picked up a stone and tossed it, skidding across the water. He sighed.

Eric couldn't put his finger on it, but meeting Ariel was the most motivation he felt in a while. If he could be happy in love, then he knew he could be happy in his place in life. Part of it was she seemed so full the freedom and adventure, like the sea, but this was just more personal. They didn't need to say a word to one another, and yet they had connection had grown ever since he had found her sitting upon the boulder. Every movement, every smile, every gesture was what he had been looking for. He could just tell she felt the same. So odd, almost like he had met her before.

He had been alone for a long time; he wasn't given many options. Most of his days were spent preparing him to become king. The most joy he experienced was when he was on the sea. When he was out there he felt like he found what he had been missing in his royal life. During the times he couldn't go sailing, he'd read about it. He loved his country, he did, but he’d had very few choices of his own.

It seemed reasonable and logical that he should put a halt on their efforts. Four months was a long time for someone to be missing, and if she was taken in hopes that Eric would pay to have her back, then why hadn't anyone asked for money yet or maybe try to engage in war? This may have been entirely foolish on his part.

*****

"Well, I don't understand it. Plenty of beautiful, highly available girls all over Italy and here he wants the one who shows up in rags and doesn't speak." Alberta remarked wringing out the soaked fabric

"Why do think he insists on looking for her when they haven't found anything?" Cameo asked the other ladies vigorously scrubbing one of his majesty's shirts against the washboard. Unless it was one of his formal outfits, a lot of his clothing managed to acquire a fish smell.

"That boy is strange, no question." Paola remarked waving her hand away.

"And stubborn. If he keeps being so stubborn, he'll never be really happy." another woman remarked.

At this point Grimsby, who was taking a stroll, overheard the woman, and sighed.

"It's a bunch of busy bodies, ignore them." Sayers told Grimsby, cupping his hands around his cigarette as he began to light it

"I simply can not ignore them since I believe they are right." Grimsby replied. "Why can’t he just be reasonable?"

"A good leader needs to stick with what he believes and stay true to his principals."

"True, however when events remain the same, then it is time to consider another course of action."

"But he still has time." Truth to be told Sayers wished Eric would rethink things, but he did seem to really love her, or at least feel guilty, though most likely a combination of the two. The lad over-thought everything. He was glad to know the future leader of his country was far from stupid, but all this contemplating was pointless. Still, Eric didn't have many people seeing his point of view. "You have to admit, it's a bit fishy the little lady just vanished an hour before the wedding. You know as well as I do, people just don't disappear."

"That is not the point. I have no doubt Eric does care for her deeply, but he has responsibilities. If I could change things for him I would. I spent the last fifteen years with him in my care. His joy would be a splendid thing. But this is not a fairy tale, love is a luxury not always guaranteed for royals." Grimsby told the big man, before the both of them turned at the sound of a throat clearing.

Eric stood there looking at both men, posture perfect, hands behind his back "Alright, I've thought about what you said, and now I'm going to set things right."

"Wonderful!" Grimsby said with a sigh of relief.

"I'm setting out to look for Ariel and won't stop until I find her. I know she wouldn't want me to give up on her, and quite frankly I'm not willing to." Eric informed the men.

"Surely you can not be serious?" Grimsby protested.

Sayers rolled his eyes. Didn't the ol’ beanpole get it by now that there were some things that it was just impossible to get Eric to change his mind about. "Just let him go after what he wants. If that doesn't work out there are at least a thousand girls who would line up out side the castle to marry him in an hour," Sayers pointed out, flicking his cigarette in between his fingers. "If it makes you feel any better I'll go with him."

"Actually, that does NOT make me feel better. The last thing I would like is a repeat of Tortuga." Grimsby snapped at the seaman.

"Okay that was seven years ago; Eric got over it soon enough, and the ladies--"

"Okay, Okay, enough talking about Tortuga." Eric interrupted. He had been eleven at the time, wasn't he ever going to live that down? "Grimm, I'm sorry but there's nothing you can say to change my mind. This isn't a vacation for me, it's a mission; one that I intend to accomplish."

****

In the middle of the night, in the darkness of the palace, Ariel peeked around the corner down the green hallway. The coast was clear. It was time for her to leave, but she had a few things she needed to do first. She went back into her room, where her sisters slept, and just took in the sight of them once more, her heart panging with how much she was going to miss each one of them. She slipped out the door in between the seaweed curtain, her sack secure.

She went to where her father slept, looking down at him. He didn't seem peaceful like her sisters did, instead restless in his dreams. She frowned, feeling guilty for what she was about to do, but she just couldn't stay here. Her hopes and dreams were dying a little more every day she was trapped. True, a part of her would always belong to the sea, but up on land was where her heart belonged. That was what gave her strength at the moment; that she would eventually be with her prince again.

She leaned down and kissed her father's forehead, brushing the white strands off his cheek, as she mouthed, "I love you, Daddy."

She then left her castle home without waking a soul, not knowing the witch’s eyes were on her.....

[Aquisha]

Frida! This is a great chapter! I love the characterization that you gave both Ariel and Eric! It's very well thought out and executed. I also adore Capt. Sayers! What went down in Tortuga I wonder? And did it have something to do with a certain Witty Jack?

And woohoo for a Beauty and the Beast shoutout! Strange no question!

Really great work Frida! I really liked this chapter and I can't wait to read more!

[Aquanaut]

Great story! I love this take on it and I can't wait to read what happens! And I am curious about Tortuga! *laughs*

[fridamoonbeam]

::gives Aquisha a cookie!:

Lolz, thanks Aquisha! It's awesome to get feedback from other writters, especially ones who's work I really enjoy. And that goes for everyone!

Being IC is very important to me. I'm not the best writer by any means, but I try to stay close to the character's personalities and thought processes


Sorry, guys. You'll just have to wait to find out what happened in Tortuga

Thank you so much for your comments

P.S I <3 Capt. Sayers!

[WickedElphie]

Frida I agree that this last chapter was done very well. I also agree that your strength as a writer is your excellent grip on characterization. Never in this story have I gone, "Wait, no CharacterX wouldn't do/say that. "

I really liked the way you had Ariel start off by freaking out, but ended with her going through her options and making the best decision she could. And yay for Eric sticking to his guns and going to look for her!

I'm still awaiting the impending King Triton meltdown once he finds out about the baby. *Cackles.*

And I have no idea how Ariel and Eric are gonna find each other, but i hope it happens soon!

[fridamoonbeam]

Elphie once again; I have to say it's a huge compliment for me when you say that!

Yeah, characterization is the hugest thing for me personally. Especially since I used to be awful and would do things for the sake of being amusing rather than being IC. Which is dumb And I don't say that for people to say: "Oh, I'm sure it wasn't that bad."

No, it was bad. XD

But what I REALLY hate when I read a fanfic is an author's clear thoughts, rather than the character's. Which happens SO much in TLM fanfiction, and other fanfiction too sadly.

It's like "No, Ariel or Eric would not do that; that's YOUR opinion of what you want them to do, rather than what they WOULD do."

Drives me nuts

::End of rant:: LOL

Once again thanks!

I can't give anything away XD But trust me, the king's reaction will not disapoint

[WickedElphie]

Oh, I agree. Characterization is THE most important thing in fanfic. Assuming someone has basic writing skills, style, you can improve with experience. If you have no clue who the characters are, though, then what's the point?

As for the King's reaction- Do you remember in Hercules (I forget if it was the movie or series) where Hades gets some news and it cuts away to outside his palace or whatever and you just see three huge columns of flame coming out from the top and both sides?

I'm thinking like that, but with lightning.

[fridamoonbeam]

All very true!

Ehehehe! That's a great discription to expect from the King XD

And lookie what I found on DA today! miiilky-way.deviantart.com/art/Fais-tourner-le-monde-112552664

[Zavi]

I'm spreading more love and jumping into this thread. Hello from Eric!Discussion and FFN!

To dish out even more praise for characterization, it's definitely crucial to every story and you hit the nail on the head here. You can be really liberal with the environment and the plot, especially with contradictory canon, but if you have no credible characters, you have no story. I don't read fanfic as much as I used to, but the principles (and my rants) still hold true. [/rant]

I personally can't wait to see what happens when Eric realizes he's involved with a mermaid, the daughter of a sea-king, AND said mermaid has his guppy on the way.

And, of course, Eric's impending doom from an enraged (murderous?) Triton.

[fridamoonbeam]

LOL. Thank you, Zavi! Just trust me when I say that Eric and King Triton's reaction won't disappoint

Okay, now here's the fifth chapter. I need to sincerely thank Elphie once again for being such a great mod and understanding person. Oh, and amazing writter LOL

Hopefully six will be up soon!



____________________________________________________

Sebastian had bad case of heartburn. Or was that the stress building from his impending doom? He couldn't really tell the difference at the moment as he felt a painful sharp bubbling rising in him. He had laid awake, resting his claws behind his head, thinking about what to tell the king about the latest development. For the life of him he couldn't think of way to present it well. How could you tell a man that his unmarried daughter was pregnant by a member of the species he despised most? The only argument he could make to justify it was that Ariel did love the human, and things had just moved too quickly because of that.....

No. He was still going to be crab cakes.

He took a heavy breath, trying to calm himself. But no matter how scared he was for himself (and he was petrified for dear life) he thought of how fearful and lost Ariel had seemed earlier in the day. He couldn't imagine how hard it would be to go through this. Proper young ladies were supposed to remain chaste until they wed; only harlots and very loose girls would do such things.

Except he knew Ariel was innocent in this. She didn't know what she had done. How could she have? Though if that girl would have taken advice on thinking things over before jumping into them THEN they might not have this problem! Even that thought couldn't keep him angry for long. She had enough against her as it was. She was a very small fish in the ocean.

He got up from his sponge bed and paced around the window. He gazed out, inhaling sharply he touched his claws to his lower lip. She was leaving??? Just where was she going? He could only imagine that she running away. Just as he was about to swim out and tell her to go back to the castle this instant, he realized she most likely wouldn't listen right now. He couldn't really blame her for not wanting to. Perhaps if he went with her, he could see what she had planned, and then talk her into coming back. He sighed-that girl was always going to get the better of him.

He slipped into the king's room, and left a note behind to explain, and then swam as fast as his red legs could carry him to finally catch up to Ariel.

******
"Yes, swim away little princess. We can't have dear ol' dad find out about the anatomy lesson Captain tight-pants gave you." Ursula cackled, spying on Ariel and Sebastian through her dark bubble as she sat at her vanity. This was working out better than she had thought. The little tramp had managed to save her the trouble of contriving a way to get her away from her sap of a father. Now that the princess was out in the open, she was fair game. Of course the sea witch would have to make sure she stayed that way, and that she didn't get injured or anything stupid enough to miscarry. Ursula rolled her violet eyes at the prospect of facing such inconvenience.

It was possible, Ursula supposed, but she also figured that Ariel would guard over her little freak of nature like a paranoid oyster would protect its pearl. Still, it was a little risky. And she couldn't count on that crab to keep his big mouth shut. She could only see him swimming frantically to the king as soon as something went wrong. Another reason she'd have to stay one step ahead of them, and not let them out of her sight. She should've known better when she came to the surface, thinking she'd turn the sailor into a zombie groom. However that night of firsts was working out in her favor. The lavender woman reached with her tentacle to one of the ripened sea berries she'd often use to deepen the bright shade of red on her elastic mouth. She pinched the bottom of it where the juices purged forth.

She thought more as she rested her elbow on the edge. She'd send Flotsam and Jetsam to watch over the girl, simple enough. Yes, constant surveillance of the little girl, the one thing Triton couldn't manage to pull out, even when he possessed the greatest magic in the sea. The man was such a schmuk. But she also knew if his little baby was missing he'd most likely haul tail over to the sea witch demanding an explanation. Ursula smirked. So she'd give him one.

The squid woman's smile grew more appreciative as she continued to watch the mermaid and the crab steal away into the dead of the night.


*****
The first rays of sun glistened through the waters and splashes of gold danced in the ocean below as Attina, as always, was the first of the royal sisters to wake. She sat up in her bed. Her normally well polished bun was disheveled and her bangs covered her blue eyes. She gazed around the room at her sisters still lost in their slumber. Typical. "Alright you sea slugs, it's time to get up." Attina informed them as she reached for her faux anemone brush, proceeding to run it through her hair.

Aquata let out an exhausted and exasparted groan, begrudgingly lifting her head from her sponge pillow, “But it’s Saturday.”

"Even more of a reason." Attina said, gesturing to Ariel’s bed; this was the prime day for Ariel’s adventures. Though she didn’t really do that much anymore. It was sad, but in time she'd understand. In the mean time she needed to do what her father asked of her.

"Wouldn't it just be easier if Dad put a bell around her neck?" Andrina remarked sarcastically.

"Andrina!” Attina snapped.

Andrina just rolled her eyes allowing her head to flop back onto her pillow. She still didn't agree with her father's reasoning of basically keeping Ariel in prison.

Adella sighed as she woke with a goofy smile, "I had a great night's sleep. I'm more than ready for the day."

"Lemme guess; dreaming about a boy?" Arista quipped at younger sister as she massaged her scalp.

"Hey, not everything I do is about a boy.... just a lot of things." Adella admitted.

"Well, I was up since six doing my water aerobics." Alana bragged looking at her slender pink tail in the mirror.

Attina shook her head. It was like this every morning. She swam over, looking at Ariel buried under her blanket. "Ariel, dear. It's really time to get up." Attina nudged her. Something was weird. She poked her sister's motionless body once more, before she ripped the blanket off her baby sibling’s bed to find Ariel nowhere in sight, but in her place was a couple of pink sponge pillows. "Oh no."

"What? What is it?" Adella asked finally getting up from her bed. She gasped, "Wait? Where's Ariel?"

"Do you think she'd be asking her to get up if she knew where she was?" Andrina asked worriedly in her sarcasm.

"Okay, nobody become unshelled just yet. She could just be in another part of the castle." Aquata pointed out.

Attina sighed, "You're right. There's no need to jump to conclusions just yet. She could be anywhere, so let’s not assume the worst. Spread out and look around the castle, then the market place." the eldest instructed her sisters.

***
The king inhaled as he opened his eyes. He laid there for a moment, his grey blue eyes full of thought. His dreams were constantly reminding him that the light in Ariel's eyes didn't shine the same as it once had. There had always been an unswerving sense of wonder and amazement on her face, which now had dimmed like a dark trench. It was not as if he hadn't seen her sad or upset before, but Ariel could normally look for the brighter side, or have faith that things would work out, even if she didn’t always express that in the moment.

Perhaps he was taking things a bit too far, like Sebastian had said. But the king also knew as soon as he lifted the enchantment Ariel would go right to that human, which was something he didn't want to happen. Why was this so complicated? He wanted her to be happy, but at the same time he couldn't bear the thought of anything happening to her. He didn't know this human. He had no real reason to trust him. What was it about him that drew her in? From what he had seen of that statue he looked like a typical handsome prince, and if the statue’s arrogant expression was an indicator of his character, then he really didn't want Ariel with somebody like that. A barbarian was bad enough, but an egotistical one was worse. Why couldn't Ariel just be happy here? Like her sisters.

At that point Triton noticed a letter beside his bed, and reached for it with his hand. It read that Ariel had ran away and there was nothing Sebastian could have done to make her stay and that the crab went with her to look out for her, and couldn't tell the king when or where.

He crumpled the letter as he felt emotions of mixed worry and fury turning his skin slightly more pink as his blood pressure rose. He was going to get to the bottom of this at once! The guards were to search up and down the costal shell. Another thought occurred to him-the last time Ariel went 'missing' was when she had gone to Ursula. No! She couldn't have again? He couldn't rule it out as a possibility. The sea witch would be receiving a visit from him soon....


*****

Ariel felt exhausted. Normally swimming was breeze, but she was really beginning to notice the tension the baby was putting on her body. Or maybe it was that she hadn’t swam this far without stopping in a long time. The mermaid had been going for hours; her teal fin was sore and nearly starting to peel from the continual movement. She decided a little rest wouldn't hurt. She was no where near Atlantica. Sighing, she began to rub her tail close to the bottom as she sat upon a flat boulder. She wondered if her family had discovered that she was gone yet. She tried not to think of how much worry she was putting her friends and family through. She was doing the right thing, she told herself once more. It would be worth it in the long run.

As she began to think more, a light rumble occurred in her stomach. So weird, she thought, placing a hand on her abdomen. She was either starving or ready to gag at all times. Right now was in the first category. In all her sixteen years had she ever had such extreme feelings going through her like clockwork? She reached into her sack and pulled out some kettle kelp bites. It wasn’t the healthiest snack, but it was really hitting the spot. She began to eat fairly quickly. ‘If I'm not careful I'll get really fat.’ Ariel thought. A few extra pounds would be good for the baby, but not much more. She looked down at her form before gazing up was, her eyes fixed on a cave. It looked ominous and deep. Who knew what kind of things were held in there? So many possibilities… Maybe a human treasure she hadn't found yet? Or a glow shell? Her curious nature was sparking as her eyes tried to cut through the darkness inside. She was about to explore, but suddenly halted. Normally Ariel wouldn't have rethought going into a spooky place, but she didn't know what was in there. What if something hurt her baby? It might be a little harder than she thought to remember her present condition.

"Alright, young lady.” Sebastian said panting, "I need to talk to you..." he panted once more. Ariel was very hard to keep up with, but then again she had a long tail and he only had his short legs and claws to swim with.

Sebastian! Her eyes went wide as her jaw dropped looking upon the crab. Oh no! Had they found her?! No! No! This couldn't happen. She was about to protest his presence when he began speaking after he caught hold of his breath.

"Ari-elle. I didn't tell anyone about da baby. I left a note telling your father dat you had run away and that I'd look after you. When you want to tell da king is your choice." Sebastian was hoping he could live by this promise.

Ariel nodded sadly. She knew he wasn't one for keeping a secret, but if he was with her then he couldn't tell her father. Plus he was one of her best friends. One of the few she had right now. It seemed like hardly anyone would speak to her after she was taken back into the sea. Although, they talked about her, she knew. Just because she couldn't speak didn't mean she couldn't hear. It had always been easy for Ariel to make friends but now she mostly found herself alone most of the time or with her sister's glued to her fin. She couldn't imagine what people would say if they knew she was pregnant. She rolled her eyes, pulling herself out of her thoughts as her hair hovered around her. It wouldn't matter soon enough. It was only a matter of time before she could be with Eric again.

She then began to mime her plan.

Sebastian observed Ariel, "So your plan is to find someone who can turn you into a human again, so you, your prince", a person Sebastian was NOT an admirer of, "and da baby could be a family." Sebastian, as much as he didn't favor Ariel wanting to live in the world above, thought that it just seemed like the right thing to do. This was going to be hard. VERY hard, but he supposed Ariel couldn't help where her heart was leading her, and that she was thinking of the guppy above everything else. "Alright. I'll try and help you get back to da prince." Sebastian said, feeling a strange sensation of deja vu.

Ariel grinned then kissed his cheek. As much trouble as she was in, it was still nice to have a friend.

*****
Grimsby stood, watching Eric ready himself for his quest for the maiden Ariel. "Eric, I am begging you to reconsider."

Eric didn't even look at the Englishman as he gathered essential belongings from his drawers and packed them away. He mused that he should bring a little extra since he wasn't sure how long it was going to be before he found Ariel. "What's there to reconsider, Grim?" Eric asked as he folded a pair of slim fitting black pants and placed them into the suitcase.

Grimsby wrinkled his face slightly at Eric's attitude, "That it has been four months and you have found nothing. That you have to be sworn in as ruler in five months WITH a bride." he tried to argue politely.

"And I'll have one." Eric clarified.

Grimsby then pursed his lips hearing this; Eric so could be frustrating at times.

Eric shook his head, retreating to his dresser, to draw upon the Englishman's reaction. Grimsby could be so frustrating at times. "Listen, as Sayers pointed out, a lot of girls would be willing to marry me since I'm of nobility. So if what you are saying is true and that I won't find Ariel, then I can marry another." Eric was of course lying about this, but he also wanted Grimsby to relax, and a little selfishly, just wanted the man off his case.

"Oh yes, Captain Sayers knows EVERYTHING." Grimsby said sarcastically. It wasn’t that Grimsby disliked him; he was just VERY different from the Englishman and he had been frustrated at some points in the years Eric had been in his care and the captain's opinions had run completely against his own.

Eric turned away from his advisor back to his suitcase. He checked it over and found that he had everything he needed. He then pressed it down, only the case would not close. He wrinkled his brow at this, as he tried to close it again. Nothing. After a few more failed attempts, Eric turned around and jumped backwards onto it closing the suitcase with his rear. "All set." Eric said as he took the case in his hands.

Grimsby was begrudgingly accepting that Eric simply was going to do what he felt was needed. "Alright. But please promise me you will not miss the gala in France. His majesty has finally returned after such a long time. It would be rude if you missed his home coming."

"I'll go, don't worry. And please try to understand Grim; I've never wanted anything as badly as this.... Please just try to understand-I'm not a kid anymore. I'll see you soon."
Eric said just before he made his way down the staircase.

Grimsby sighed. Was it really that hard for him to think of Eric as a man?

Grimsby or Sir Benjamin Reginald Grimsby III had come to Italy shortly after his dearest Elizabeth passed away. He had received an invitation from his majesty King Antonio of Italy to partake in the running of the family shipping company. Known for his acute sensitivity to what is proper and appropriate in dealing with others, including the ability to speak and act without offending. Antonio requested that he would take the position of Royal Adviser along with chief engineer.

Grimsby hadn’t been sure what to think of the offer. Did he really want to leave his country at this point in his life? He mused that it was never wise to make hasty decisions, but England held too many memories and was becoming a somewhat painful place to live. A fresh start? Up to that point he had never thought of himself as the “adventurous type” (being an intelligent person), though in the future he would receive more than a lifetime’s worth...

After porting in Italy, he had changed his clothing to prep for the evening, his nerves shaking, not knowing what to expect from the meeting with the young king and queen. He had several hours to kill before his meeting so he had thought he should take in the scenery of what was to be his home. It was a sight indeed, lush rolling hills, the sunlight shimmering off the aqua sea, all exquisite in its own way. Just as he was appreciating the view, he heard a wrenching deafening noise pierce his ears. He turned sharply to see a young woman, who couldn't have been more than twenty years of age at the most, running at full pelt with her long black hair bouncing all over, and fear in her eyes. Grimsby was shocked then registered what the woman was saying once she screamed again. "Eric Stop!!"

At that Grimsby felt something brush past his legs. He glanced down to see a nude (a constant state for the pint-size prince, whom had just escaped his itchy tight formal wear, feeling weighed down and constricted) little boy with bushy black hair running into the ocean. Grimsby had never been one to “rough it”, or rather, had never been a fan of doing so. Mostly he preferred to read and discuss politics and current events in the world with a cup of tea, complimented perfectly by his pipe. But now was the time for action!

He reached for the three year-old before he could be submerged in too deep into the water. Grimsby stumbled as he straightened, and fell backwards. His rear was now embedded in the wet sand while his finely tailored attire was soaked with filthy sea-water and his neatly pulled back hair was now a complete mess. He was happy to have saved the child, but he also never felt less dignified in his whole existence. He looked at this child with the wide blue eyes, who seemed to have a deep fascination with the ocean. Was it his imagination or did the little boy, find this situation very amusing...

He did.

Well, Eric certainly had made his life more interesting.

[toons27]

Good story so far. Hope things will work out.

[WickedElphie]

I've already said how much i loved this chapter. The plot is thickening rapidly. Ariel and Eric have both left to find each other-though how they will is till very much a question. I also loved the character development everyone has gotten, including Triton and the sisters. My favorite part, hands down, was Grimsby's flashback to his first meeting with Eric. *Giggles* That was quite a first impression, and it certainly set the tone for their future relationship.

[fridamoonbeam]

I can't give away much. But please stayed tooned

Aw, thanks Elphie. I was really trying to dig at HOW those two came to meet one another. And it just seemed like he was around most of Eric's life, including the toddler years XD Part of my inspiration was my three nephews, who are all under the age of four! Little boys have SO much energy, it's really sweet and yet a little over-welming at times. And I felt Eric would be no exception. LOL