"Eric?" The same man from the beach called from the top of the steps. Thankfully they wrapped around the side of the castle and he could not see the bottom. Jumping apart Ariel dove into the water again.

Trying not to look suspicious Eric called, "Yeah Grim?"

"There you are!" He smiled kindly, "We need to discuss the arrival of the new princess. She is due in a month, you know, unless you find someone else."

Rolling his eyes he said, "Come on, don't start."

"Eric you were almost killed yesterday and there was no one to continue the line. You must marry and produce and heir."

Ariel was listening from the side of the steps. Each word was like a knife in her heart. Leaning her head back against the wall she took a deep breath.

"She's out there somewhere," Eric said simply. He knew exactly where she was.

"Please consider what I've said." Grimsby gave an exasperated sigh as he walked back up the steps and disappeared.

The Prince watched him go before turning to the sea and calling, "Ariel?"

She debated very seriously about slipping away and never returning. It was be easier for both of them, but when he called her name again the plea behind it drew her out. He beamed when she reappeared.

"I was afraid you'd left."

"Perhaps I should have."

His brow creased with worry. "What are you talking about?"

She nodded her head in the direction Grimsby went, "You need to marry. I shouldn't be here." She swam after paces before Eric stopped her.

"Wait!" The water was up to his chest when he reached her and pulled her into his arms."Please don't go."

"Oh, Eric, I wish I could be with you."

He shook his head, "You're with me right now."

"You know what I mean. I can't even stand." A tear slid down Ariel's cheek, surprising her. She had only ever cried underwater.

He reached out and wiped it away, "We'll think of something. We have to. I don't want anyone else."

Neither of them realized that they were being watched. Sensing the right moment two oily eels slithered forward and spoke to them.

"Poor children," One hissed.

"Poor sweet children," Said the other.

Eric and Ariel both looked over, startled.

"They have a very serious problem." The first one mocked again

"What do you want?" Eric growled, not trusting them.

"If only there was something we could do."

"But there is," They said in unison.

Ariel backed away slightly, frightened. "Who are you?"

They smiled with all the warmth of a shark, "Don't be scared. We represent someone who can help you."

"Someone who can make all your dreams come true," The second slithered around her shoulder making Ariel cringe. Gripping her protectively the Prince angled her away from them.

"Just imagine"

"You and your prince," It nodded at him.

"Together," They both chimed, "Forever."

"I don't understand." Ariel said hesitantly. When she tried to move a little closer Eric pulled her back, not letting go. His eyes were narrowed with warning, though he said nothing.

"Ursula has great power."

Her eyes widened, "The sea-witch? Why that's- I couldn't possibly!"

Eric didn't know who they were speaking of, but as worried as Ariel had become she was obviously not someone to trust. "No! Get out of here!" He told them sternly.

They shrugged, "Suit yourselves."

"It was only a suggestion." They took their time swimming away, remaining on the surface.

Eric sighed and cupped her face. "What were they talking about? Sea-witch?"

"Most who go to her never come back."

He gripped her shoulders, "Then you can't go!"

Ariel knew it was risky, but it might be the only option she had. Eric's face was so full of concern that she knew he loved her. That, in itself, was worth everything.

"Wait." She called, looked at the eels as they slithered away.

"Yessss?" They called.

"Ariel, no!"

Determined she looked at him, "I have to try."

"But-"an eel wrapped its tail around her wrist and tugged her along. Eric moved to stop her but Ariel didn't see the other eel wrap itself tightly around his torso, pinning his arms. Struggling he couldn't break free before she had slipped under the waves "Ariel!"

She didn't look back, afraid she might lose her nerve.