The young girl whimpered in fear as James held her roughly. The knife glistened next to her throat and Ariel slowly raised both hands into the air.

"What are you doing?" She asked, hardly able to believe he could threaten a child.

"Getting your attention," James smiled cruelly, "Now come along. You don't want Brynn to get hurt do you?"

He jerked her back and she let out a muffled cry. "Let her go!" Ariel pleaded.

"As long as you cooperate she'll be fine. If you're back in the water at dawn you'll change back. She's my motivation."

The thought of not being with Eric broke her heart, but Ariel couldn't stand the thought of Brynn being harmed anymore than she already had. "Please," She looked at him, "Give her to me and I'll go with you."

"And how do I know that?" He raised an eyebrow.

She looked at the young girl sadly, "You have my word."

Rolling his eyes he shoved Brynn to her. Ariel clutched her protectively, positioning herself between them. Quickly she undid her gag and binds.

"It's okay I won't let him hurt you." She told her quietly. Brynn gripped her waist and stared over at James in fear.

"I want to go home." She sobbed.

Ariel hushed her, "I know. It'll be okay."

"I'm not letting her go until you're back in the water." He growled. "We're going home."

The child's grip tightened, "But Ariel, You're supposed to be our princess!"

"Shh," She quieted her, "its okay. Everything will be fine."

"But Eric-"

"Don't mention his name!" James snapped, stepping toward them threateningly. Ariel stood her ground, determined not to let him near Brynn.

She looked at him with disgust, "You monster."

Grabbing her arm he threw her forward. "Get moving."

Brynn scampered to stay next to her, hugging her bare leg. Wearing only the Princes shirt Ariel walked with her arms around the little girl. James kept hold of her arm as they headed toward the doors. It was still dark outside when the cool night air hit them. Suddenly Ariel turned and tackled him, throwing James to the ground as best she could. The child screamed.

"Brynn run!" He rolled over on top of her, pinning Ariel down, "Go!" She choked out under his weight.

Crying the little girl took off as fast as she could.

James narrowed his eyes, "You shouldn't have done that." His hand snapped across her cheek and she bit back a cry, but as long as she was safe, Ariel would gladly go through it again.