Here we go with chapter 26 is here and I hope everyone is ready for this chapter. Thank you all again for your support. I appreciate it and so is my friend. He is happy with how this story has gone and how it's still going on.
Now, last time, we saw Ariel getting to know Noah, Naomi, and Isaac's past. Finding out that the world isn't as she thought it was. She knew it wasn't filled with a lot of good humans, but didn't know the terrible things humanity has done. Kind of reinforcing Triton's reason for wanting his family to remain under the sea.
Something Disney wouldn't go far in. Oh sure, they've shown some dark moments, but do try changing history or try giving us good endings in the end. Nothing wrong with showing the world isn't perfect, but there are good people in the world who want to do right. Still, will Ariel be able to help change Titus' mind and keep him from going through with his plan?
Tune in today to find out everyone. Now, time for the disclaimer. I don't own anything owned by Disney except the OCs of my friend. Also, again I'm doing this for my friend who can no longer work on my projects.
Enjoy the chapter everyone.
Chapter XXVI
Atlantic Ocean
Out in the Atlantic, the Leviathan is seen continuing to sail through the sea as it heads towards the Bermuda Triangle. The destination for Titus and his crew. The crew working during the day finished preparing the ship for the skeleton crew. Titus made sure they would not stop sailing till they made it to the triangle.
This means they'll be sailing day and night till they get to their goal.
In the meantime, the crew that worked during the day made their way down to the galley to eat their food and prepare for sleep. While the skeleton crew had gotten their sleep and ate their meal, before they headed up for work. Allowing the day crew to get some rest and prepare for their shift the next day. While the night crew work to ensure they remain on course.
As the night crew make their way to work, Ariel is seen wearing a blue dress skirt, with a black/white top that has long sleeves, and black shoes. Ariel had never worn clothes like these before. These were clothes she would see the women in town wear. Ariel wasn't picky and was just glad to be wearing something else other than the dress she had on when she was taken.
She was taken through the ship by Isaac as he led her towards the captain's quarters. Where she'll be joining Titus and his loyal crewmates for dinner. Ariel was doing this more to get more information out of Titus and see if she can change his mind. She still saw him as an evil monster for what he wants to do to the world.
But after what Noah, Naomi, and Isaac had told her. She wanted to see if there was any sense of good in him.
As they made it up top, she saw the crew hard at work and making sure they sailed them through the night.
"Isaac?" Ariel called out to get the man's attention. "We aren't going to stop sailing? I would have thought we'd stop and continue sailing when there's light."
"The captain wishes for us to get to our destination as soon as possible. No delays," said Isaac as he looked around to see the men continue their work. "It's not uncommon for ships to sail through the night, though considering the season, it would be wise to halt sailing till we reach our goal."
Ariel knew from her time with Eric that sailors did sail through the night but had to be cautious. They might run into something that could damage the ship and run the risk of sinking.
"However, if we did run into some trouble, Marina's pet can handle it. So, we have nothing to fear," said Isaac as he leads the queen towards the staircase up to the captain's quarters.
"Pet?" Ariel asked as she followed Isaac over to the staircase, when she saw what looked like a giant dorsal fin appearing above the water, before it disappeared. "W-What was that?"
Isaac looked out to see what she was looking at and saw nothing, but judging from the look on her face, she saw Marina's pet. "I don't know the exact details of how Marina found him, but she found a baby shark within the ocean's depths. He was abandoned, alone, and scared. So, Marina took him in and somehow tamed the shark. Something I didn't think was even possible."
Back home, Isaac knew sharks were incredibly dangerous, especially the Great White Shark. His father always warned his people not to venture far into the sea. For it belonged to the sharks and would kill any who enter their domain. For those that did go out into the sea alone, well, they usually found their remains washed up on shore days later.
"That was a shark? But it was…I've seen my fair of sharks, even swam away from three of them, but I never saw them get that big before," said Ariel as she walked up the stairs and couldn't believe what she saw was an actual shark.
"Heh. That would be true. Except it's not an ordinary shark," said Isaac as he walked them over to the door to the captain's quarters. "It's what she calls a Megalodon. A species of sharks that existed millions of years ago and can grow up to 80 feet long. Enough to even swallow a man whole. While tearing a ship in half."
Ariel gasped softly before looking out at the sea, frightened at such a large creature hidden beneath the sea and how it's under Marina's control.
"Don't worry. It won't do anything unless Marina says so or if the captain tells her to," said Isaac as he reassured the queen it's all right
Ariel didn't feel relief to hear that Marina has control over the beast. If given the chance, she could sick it on them. She tried not to think about it and focus on it right now.
"Well, that's…not very reassuring," said Ariel as she watched the fin soon disappear beneath the waves. "Where are we exactly?"
"In the middle of the Atlantic," said a brown-skinned woman around the same age as Isaac, with long black hair, brown eyes, and wearing an outfit that looked native. It was a tan-colored suede dress with similar color pants. Brown shoes, belt, and wearing a colored feather and beads around her neck. "We'll reach our destination soon without any delays from any storms."
Isaac cleared his throat and stepped forward to the woman. "Queen Ariel, this is Odina, a native woman of America and part of the Powhatan tribe. She's also the ship's medical doctor."
Ariel gasps softly when she heard how the woman is a Native American. She heard stories about the natives of the land but never met one or even thought she would meet one.
"It's nice to meet you, Odina," said Ariel as she greeted the other. "Though I did not expect to meet a native like yourself on…well…a ship like this. Much less being a doctor."
Odina gave a small nod, understanding Ariel response. "I can understand why you would say that. I joined Titus' crew after he came to my land and saved my people. I practiced medicine thanks to my mother, and Titus when he educated me on modern medicine."
"He did?" Ariel asked who wasn't surprised at this point to find out Titus saved more people, despite his hatred for humanity. "May I ask how he did he save your people? If you don't mind me asking."
"Not at all," said Odina as she begins walking over to look out at the sea. "My people lived peacefully along the coast. We were a peaceful tribe that lived as one with nature, we lived a quite life and were willing to help others who needed it. However, that changed when…the colonist arrived."
Odina explained how her people were in constant conflict with the colonist, who treated them like savages. Destroying the land around them, taking the food the natives gave them without doing anything for them in return, and even taking their people. One of them, as Odina's ancestor, a young 14-year-old who was taken and then married an Englishman.
She died, along with many of her people due to the diseases the colonist brought. So, her people left their native home and moved to live somewhere else. But everywhere they went, they lost their homes to the colonist who kept on coming. Killing other tribes along the way and stealing everything from them.
"We finally settled somewhere away from the colonists, where I was finally born. My mother taught me all about medicine and using what nature provides to help the sick. My father taught me how to hunt and protect myself. I took all they taught me so I can be ready for whatever my future holds. That's when once again, we ran into more colonist, who came to kill my people," said Odina as she remembered that day well, being 10 years old, it's hard not to remember what happened.
"My father and our warriors were killed, many of our women were violated, and the children were taken to be slaves. However, Titus arrived with his crew and saved us. He killed the colonist and freed us from slavery. He even provided medication to cure us when we became ill from the diseases the colonist brought."
Odina then explained how her people, what was left of them, were taken to a safe haven. Much like Naomi's people were taken to a safe haven too. Odina though chose to serve Titus and even began learning all about medication and science. Using it to help her become better with medication and use what nature provides to provide better remedies than what the Europeans used.
"I owe Titus for what he did for me and my people. And while I'm aware of his plans, I still will stand by his side," said Odina while hoping that the captain will still choose a better path, but if not, she'll still stay with him.
Ariel took in all she was told and is starting to see why Eric never trusted the English, the Spanish, or French. The things she's heard they've done to the natives in America, along with them desecrating the land. Well, let's just say she can now see why Titus despises humanity. And understand the loyalty of the crew towards their captain.
"I see…well, thank you for telling me your story. I do appreciate it, Odina," said Ariel as she thanked the other. "It helps me understand the loyalty you all have and why you're all willing to stand by him."
"And we appreciate you willing to hear us out," said Isaac as he is glad that Ariel doesn't see them as delusional or that they've been brainwashed. "Now, let us head inside. It is getting rather cold."
"Not as cold as the wintertime back home, but it would be best if we head inside," said Odina who knew she should have worn her coat.
Isaac took off his coat and wrapped it around Odina, who thanked him for it. Isaac gives a small nod but looked away so she wouldn't see him blush a little. Ariel though took notice and smiled a little bit.
She heads inside and looks to see Titus' quarters to look really nice.
He has some lights, which look brighter than any candle or lanterns. Not to mention the furniture looked fancy, the floor was not wood but furry, and it looked like it was divided. One side has books along with a desk, in the middle a dining area, and on the other side is where Titus sleeps. This was not what she expected it all to look, but she didn't mind.
"This looks amazing. I've never seen anything like this before," said Ariel as she was about to walk in, when Isaac placed his hand gently on her own.
"Sorry, but the captain prefers if we took our shoes off. So, we don't mess with the carpet," said Isaac as he removed his boots and set them on an area where other shoes are at.
Ariel understood and removed her own shoes before she sets them where the shoes are placed. She then begins following Isaac as she looked around at the room, mesmerized by everything.
"This is amazing. I've been on many ships before, but none of them looked like this," said Ariel as her old side began to surface. Her old curious side was fascinated by all human related items and wanted to find out more about them.
She walked over towards one of the lights and moved her hand up, before Isaac cleared his throat, causing her to stop.
"Apologies, my lady. I just don't want you to burn your hand," said Isaac as he walked over, while admiring the queen's curiosity.
"Sorry. I was just curious about how this light could be so bright. I don't think this is a candle, right?" Ariel asked before she got a small chuckle from Isaac. "Is something funny?"
"No, no, it's just understandable why you would say that," said Isaac as he moved his hand close to the light but didn't touch it. "My master once told me that Atlanteans were highly advanced for their time. They made such discoveries that could have benefitted the world. One of these inventions is them harnessing electricity to make light."
Isaac explained how they found a way to conduct electricity and have it surge through what is called a 'lightbulb' to produce light. It wasn't fire or magic. It was all science. And they used it to help illuminate their kingdom.
Ariel was in awe when hearing this and couldn't believe her people were capable of such things. "Amazing. I never knew our people did anything like this."
"It is one of the many things your people were capable of," said Odina as she walked over and pulled out a book from her bag. "This book was written by a medical scientist who discovered how the human anatomy works, how diseases infect the body, and described in great details how to help any patient with any illnesses."
Ariel took the book, and it felt how heavy it is from how many pages it has. She's read through a lot of books before, but this one, when she opened it to look at the pages, she can see it has more than any book. More words, it had pictures, and all detailing everything.
"This is remarkable. I've never seen anything like this from any books back home and on the surface," said Ariel who knew this was more than she was expecting.
"It's not surprising," Ariel, Odina, Isaac turned around to see Titus existing a room wearing a long-sleeve white shirt with a black vest, black pants, and gloves. "Much of our inventions, books, and technology were destroyed during the battle and became lost ever since. My own fault really, since it was my actions that led to these losses."
Ariel was surprised to see Titus owning up for his actions that led to their home sinking beneath the sea, but to also see him acting differently than he did when he fought Gabriella.
Titus crossed his arms before he turned to Ariel. "Even if they weren't lost, I'm doubtful they would work underwater. Since electricity and water don't mix well."
"Not the only thing that mixes well," said Ariel who was referring to Titus and his actions against humanity.
Titus could still see some hostility from Ariel but seemed more tamed than Gabriella's. "Fair enough, but can you deny if humanity had such technology, they could be trusted with it?"
Ariel was about to answer that she believes humanity can be trusted, but after hearing the stories from Isaac, Odina, Noah, and Naomi, she felt that maybe he wasn't entirely wrong to be distrustful.
When Titus heard no response, he knew right away that Ariel was starting to understand him. "Good. Now, I am glad you decided to join us. I'm hoping to also use this chance to get to know each other better. Starting with introductions; I am Titus, once the prince of Atlantis and son of Poseidon, God and King of the Sea."
Ariel knew the introductions were pointless, but it's clear what Titus is trying to do. Trying to start anew with their interactions.
"I am Queen Ariel, daughter of Triton, King of the Merpeople and granddaughter of Poseidon," said Ariel as she gave a small bow but still had a defiant look on her face. "Wife to King Eric, human ruler of Tirulia."
Titus sees what Ariel did there but didn't let it bother him. "Welcome, my dear niece, to my ship. I'm hoping we can use this chance to talk and get to know each other better. I am thankful you joining us is a sign you wish to do the same thing."
Ariel knew she was doing this more to convince Titus to stop, but maybe getting more of an understanding from him would help too. "You can thank Noah and Naomi for that. They told me stories about you and what you did for them. So, I decided to use this chance to learn more about you."
"Did they?" Titus didn't sound surprised as he walked over to the dining table. "I have no problem with them telling you anything about their past and me. It also tells me you're willing to hear me out."
"I am and I'm hoping you'll do the same with me," said Ariel who is hoping Titus will listen to what she has to say. "You say I'm not your prisoner, but you expect my help to get what you want. If you want it then you'll need to convince me, without making threats to my friends, family, and people."
Titus knew that was a fair argument. He could threaten her to do what he wants, but if he can convince her to do this willingly, then it'll benefit him in the end.
"I suppose that is true. I am hoping to convince you to go along with my plan, without any threats," said Titus before he sees the door open to see Noah and Naomi walking in. "Glad to see you two are here. Have you seen Marina?"
"She'll be here soon. She said she just needed to feed her pet before joining us," said Naomi as she wore black pants with a blue top and long-sleeves.
While Noah wore similar clothing, but with his top being white and short sleeves. "And she's bringing the twins along," Noah shuddered when he mentioned the twins. "I hate eating next to them."
"The twins?" Ariel asked, who seemed confused about who Noah is referring to.
"Mai and Mei Katsumoto. They're…Marina's little assassins," said Isaac as he tells Ariel about the twins.
"Assassins?" Ariel asked, who looked shocked by what she had just told, before turning to Titus. "She has assassins?"
"They're more like her bodyguards than assassins. And they were placed with Marina under my orders," said Titus as he walked over towards his desk and begins grabbing a small fan. "During my trip to China, I found my ship to have been robbed. I tracked down the thieves, only to find it was two little girls wearing cheshire cat masks."
Titus remembered that day well and how he met the twins. He had arrived at China when he went to acquire some food and medication. When he returned, he found some of his ship was robbed. He found the thieves and they attacked him. They were highly skilled and almost got the better of him.
"I managed to survive and disarm the girls. Even shattered their masks. Only to find both girls with burned faces," one with a burned left face and the other right burned face. "They couldn't have been more than seven years old when I saw what they looked like. They tossed their weapons away and lowered their heads to me. As if they waited for me to end their life."
Ariel was horrified to hear how the twins that robbed and attacked Titus turned out to be so young and had been burned. She knew if they were here then that meant Titus spared them. But she did want to hear how they ended up joining him.
"Instead of taking their lives or leaving them, I took my cloak off and wrapped it around their faces. I then offered my hand to them, and they took it," Titus then took them back with him to his ship, trained them, and they became loyal to him. "I then entrusted them with Marina. So that she would have some protection."
"I see…did they ever tell you what happened to them?" Ariel asked, wondering if there was more to their story than what Titus told her.
Titus nods as he explained that the girls were once trained by their father to be bodyguards for a rich noble and to be their silent killers. They spoke to him through hand-signs, so they wouldn't say a word or speak out against their master. However, their father and the noble were killed, while the girls were burned when they tried to save their mother. They since then had survived stealing and being hired assassins.
"After that, they worked under me as my bodyguard, before moving them to serve Marina," said Titus who knew she needed protection more than he did.
"I find it hard to believe she would need any protection," said Ariel as she walked over near Titus and his desk, before moving her hand along one of the books. "Considering who her mother is."
The room got silent when Ariel revealed she knew who Marina's mom was. It made it clear to her that other than Titus, everyone else in the room knew the truth as well. They said nothing though since they knew it was a personal thing for Marna. And didn't want to anger her for bringing it up.
Titus didn't seem surprised that Ariel knew the truth. He figured Marina or one of the crew might have given her a hint of who Marina's mother is.
"You can understand then why she holds some hostility towards you," said Titus as he gets a small nod from Ariel. "Then I suggest you restrain yourself from bringing it up. The last thing I want is for Marina to try fighting you."
"Considering what the alternative is if anything happens to me…I'll keep quiet," said Ariel who knew if Marina had it her way, she'd be dead, and they'd go after her daughter. "But I would like to know the truth, considering I never knew Ursula had a daughter."
"Understandable, but perhaps that is a conversation for a later time. For now? It is time to feast," as Titus said this, the door opened and in came their guests.
"Of course," said Isaac as he turned to his captain. "Shall we take our seats then?"
Titus nods in response as he motioned for Ariel to follow him to the table. All set up for eight people, but only had plates, utensils, and cups for six. Titus sat at the head of the table, while Ariel was motioned to take a seat to his right. Isaac sat next to Ariel with Odina sitting next to Isaac, while Naomi and Noah sat across from them.
Leaving one seat next to Titus, empty, hinting its Marina's seat.
As they sat in their seats, Marina entered the room with the masked twins. Marina was seen wearing a similar outfit to Ariel's, except it was black with green outlines around it. Marina saw the crew were already taking their seats, before spotting Ariel. She gave a quiet growl when she saw her, but remembered she promised to behave.
The twins walked over and sat down next to their mistress. Both were wearing their regular white dresses, but had their hats off, and kept their masks on. Both planning to intend to lift them to eat their food. But they won't remove their masks completely.
Marina walked over and took her seat next to Titus, right across from Ariel.
"Good evening, Marina. I trust you finished with your potions?" Titus asked as he began the conversation.
"Of course," Marina replied while keeping her eyes locked on Ariel. "They're all ready for usage once we arrive to Neverland."
"Excellent," said Titus who is pleased to hear that, while noticing where Marina's eyes are locked. "Marina, I trust you are all right with our guest joining us for dinner?"
Marina gave a forceful smile in response before she replied. "If that is what you desire, captain. I'll be fine with it. And what of you, Ariel? You fine with eating with those you despise?"
Ariel knew what Marina was trying to do but didn't let it get to her and began to form a small smile. "I don't despise any of you. I only have many questions that I'd like to answer about Titus' goal. Is that a problem?"
"None at all," said Marina who leaned back against her seat, while grabbing her knife and twirling it. "Ask away."
"Later," said Titus who could feel the tension and wanted to avoid a fight breaking out. "For now? I want to use this opportunity to thank you all for joining us. I'm also pleased to announce thanks to Marina's pet, we will reach our destination in about a week."
"Presuming your pet doesn't get hungry and try to eat us," said Naomi as she took a sip of water from her cup.
"If that were to happen, I have no problem feeding you to him," said Marina as she broke her gaze from Ariel and turned to Naomi.
"How about I help calm the beasty with some music? Maybe that'll help?" Noah asked as he tried to defuse the tension between the two girls.
"Shut up, Noah," said both Marina and Naomi.
"Shutting up," said Noah who felt he succeeded in stopping the tension.
"Enough," said Isaac as he spoke up. "We did not invite you both to fight. We came to eat and celebrate our captain's victory. We are one step of bringing peace to this world. So please, kindly, behave."
Marina and Naomi just stared at one another, before scoffing and crossing their arms before facing away from each other. Isaac sighed in annoyance, while Ariel couldn't help but be reminded of the times, she used to see her sisters argue. Despite knowing who Marina's mother is, she does remind her of her sisters.
The door that Titus came from earlier opened and out came Raphael pushing a food cart. "Buenas noches a todos. I trust you're all ready for dinner?" he asked as he brings out the tray and opens it to reveal the meal he has made.
Ariel took a sniff of it and was amazed with how good it smelled. "It smells delicious, Mr. Raphael."
Raphael turned to Ariel and began to smile. "Gracias mi señora. I take great pride in making sure my meals all taste and smell good."
"And what did you prepare for us this evening, Raphael?" Titus asked as he began getting his napkin ready to act as his bib.
"Oh, I've prepared an array of different meals for all this fine evening, capitán," said Raphael as he begins grabbing each plate of the guests and pour their food. "First, the appetizers. I've made some chicken croquettes and cauliflower fritters."
Raphael passed on the meal so the others can see and have their choice of which food to go with.
"As for the main course, I made a home favorite. Paella, which is rice, tomatoes, saffron, stocks, and seafood mixes. This includes clams, mussels, and shrimp," Raphael passes out the large tray for the others to take as much as they want, before walking over to the queen.
"As for you, my lady. I made chopped steak with some rice, beans, and tortillas. ¿Está bien esto?" Raphael asked who didn't give Ariel anything seafood related.
"It is, thank you very much," said Ariel who is glad not to be eating anything seafood related, but has no issue with the others doing it. "It does look delicious."
"It really is," said Noah as he begins eating his food, while enjoying every bit of how tasty it is. "Raph old buddy, you're a food genius," he replied while having some food in his mouth.
"Please do not talk with your mouth full, cerdo," said Raphael who appreciates the feedback, but wishes Noah would learn some manners too.
Noah swallowed his food and rubbed the back of his head. "Whoops, sorry about that."
"Despite Noah's lack of manners, he's not wrong," said Naomi who appreciated the appetizers and main course. "It really is delicious."
"One of the only good things to get from this crew," said Marina under her breath as she enjoyed her meal and took enjoyment out of eating the lobster.
"Oh, thank you so much for the compliments, but you know you don't have to because of our guest," said Raphael who knew he was just glad to be filling everyone's belly with his meal.
"Speaking of our guest, Ariel, do you wish to know Raphael's backstory?" Titus asked as he used his napkin to wipe away any mess from his lips. "You heard from everyone how they joined my crew, so why not hear about Raphael's too."
"Oh no, no need for that. I don't wish to bore her with my story," said Raphael who knew his story wasn't anything special.
"Actually, I wouldn't mind hearing it," said Ariel who was interested in learning everyone's, even Marina's, backstories. "If you don't mind of course, Mr. Raphael."
Raphael knew if this is what their guest wants to hear, then so be it. "My story isn't anything close to their stories," motioning to Isaac, Noah, and Naomi. "But if you wish to know it, then very well."
Raphael begins cleaning his hands with his apron, before he begins telling the queen his story. "I was born in Spain in a small little town. My father was once a famous Spaniard soldier, while my mother was a Muslim immigrant who came from the Middle East. The two fell in love and settled after my father was injured, which happened after saving my mother and her family. As a result, he couldn't serve but was given land as a reward for his service."
His father then became a leader to the small town and helped push their town to grow. Allowing people to practice their own religious beliefs, to outlaw any bigotry, and helped form trade with other towns to help their homes grow.
While his father did this, Raphael's mother taught him how to cook. Teaching him the importance of cooking, how not to waste a single food, and to help any in need. Whether they have any money or not. To never let someone who is starving go hungry.
"My parents were pillars of the community and made our home a good place to live…that is until the royals found out what was happening," said Raphael as his expression changed and began going into the bad part of the story. "Señora, are you aware of the Spanish Inquisition?"
Ariel shook her head. She had no idea what other countries were like, other than what the nobles say. But she had a feeling what Raphael is going to tell her is going to be different from their stories.
"It was a time when the monarchy began eliminating any religion that weren't Christianity from Spain. To punish heretics and suffer horrible deaths," Raphael summed up what the inquisition was really like, from his point of view. "So, when they found out about what our town was doing and how my father encouraged this, well, you can tell where this is going."
Ariel summed up what happened and was completely horrified how a monarchy could do such horrible things. In the name of their own religion.
"My father saved as many as he could, but he was captured, tortured, and executed. My mother too was executed, but I managed to run away and survived," said Raphael who remembered that day well of losing both his parents and to people who claimed to be on the side of God.
"I remember those days, weeks, and months of trying to survive with anything I could find to eat. From hunting, stealing, and working to fill my belly. Until one day, I stole from a noble carriage, and they found out who I was. They prepared to kill me, when Titus appeared."
Titus disarmed and wounded the men, but didn't kill them. He decided to spare their lives but took their gold and gave it to the people. Raphael remembered the people cheering for Titus and ignoring the noble man's plea for help.
"He then turned to me and saw I was starving. He took me in, and I told him about my old life, including my mother as a chef. Titus then began teaching me the arts of cooking and once I was ready, I became his head chef. Serving him all kinds of meals, including those I experimented with and made for all to eat."
Ariel is once again blown away to find out that Titus, despite his hatred towards mankind, has shown his kindness to them again. Saving those who have troubled lives and need help. He came in and saved them from what they were enduring. Before having them join his crew and have appeared to show such loyalty to their captain for his kindness.
"I owe the captain for him saving us all. We all do," said Raphael who knew without Titus, they all wouldn't be where they are now.
The crew all nod in agreement, knowing what Raphael said was true. Ariel is amazed by Raphael's story, along with everyone's stories about their past, and their meeting with Titus. She remembered the stories her father told her of Titus' hatred towards humans and how he didn't care for them. His plan of what he wants to do, even showed her his hatred for humanity.
Yet here he is, with other humans. He spared their lives, saving them from horrible conditions, and giving them a chance to live. It was everything that she heard about him. Something she never thought was possible.
"Now that you've heard everyone's story, you now understand my decision for what I'm doing then," said Titus as he hoped with all the stories from the crew, he has won Ariel over. "You now understand why I'm doing this. This world is full of hateful humans that need to be punished. That this world needs to start all over in order to bring a better future for all who live here."
Ariel took in everything Titus told her and couldn't deny, with what the others told her, humanity is flawed. Very flawed. They have shown they are willing to do everything to get power, money, control, and destroy any who threatened their religion.
"I'm not going to deny that after all I heard that humanity has done a lot of terrible things. Things even I never heard of before and I do feel something should be done. However, I do have a question to you," Ariel decided to ask him something that she knows he won't be able to answer her.
"Are you planning to punish the innocent for the crimes of humanity?" Ariel asked as if she got a silent response from the crew, while Titus looked confused. "You seemed to be planning to drown much of the world for the crimes of what the humans you've encountered have done, but what of the ones who haven't done anything? Do you plan to save them all? How do you know the places where you'll drown don't have any innocent people around who did nothing?"
"I already know the places and humans to spare. I've traveled in every part of the world to know who are truly innocent and who are not," said Titus as he replied to Ariel's question. "Also, for those places that I plan to drown, many of those people had their chance to rise up against their oppressors but instead chose to side with them. They are hardly innocent."
"There lies the problem, Titus. You are hardly any different from the humans who have done terrible things too. If anything, you're talking about mass genocide. Is that something everyone is fine with?" Ariel asked as she turned to them to the others. "Are you truly fine with watching millions drown? Men, women, children…infants?"
Noah and Naomi turned to each other feeling unsure how to respond to this. Yes, they stood by Titus with what he wanted to do, but they didn't consider the idea that young babies would drown too. Raphael looked away as if he felt his captain's decision was one based off what they had all experienced. And felt it was justified, but drowning babies, that was something he wasn't sure he could live with.
Isaac and Odina too felt uneasy with the question. They knew taking lives was expected on the path their captain was on, but they tried not to think about even infants who were innocent, losing their lives.
"And what would you have us do? Let the world continue with its path?" Marina asked as she spoke up when she felt Ariel's words were starting to affect the crew.
"No," said Ariel as she stood up and tried to find a better path that they can take. "You can try changing the world," she then turned to Titus and tries to change his mind. "I don't know what happened to you to cause you to go down this path, but I remember my daddy telling me you were a good man. One who is just and willing to give people chances."
She then begins motioning with her hand to the crew. "Look at them. You spared not only their lives, but also many of the people who you met as well. Naomi's people, the villagers you gave gold to, and the men you've spared. You understand mercy and are willing to give them a chance. And even guide them."
"We can't guide these humans," said Marina as she stood up from her seat too. "You can't change their ways. They will always rebel against change and kill any who stand in their way."
"Maybe or maybe, you can try a different path that doesn't involve drowning the world," said Ariel as she prepared to suggest something that she doesn't feel is right but is a better option. "Why not use the power of the trident to unify the people? You seem to be good at finding good people who can support you. Imagine what you can do if you have nations of them by your side. Using the power of the trident to force the governments to make the changes the people need, even remove them from power."
Titus listened to what Ariel was saying, since he wanted to give her a chance to speak her mind. What she said about his plan is one he is aware will be seen as genocide, but feels it is better than the alternative. However, her suggestion of him using the power of the trident to force nations to submit is one he didn't expect from the queen. Someone who he thought was like his little brother, is suggesting him to use their father's trident to overthrow those who are corrupted.
"I am surprised in you, Ariel. To hear you suggest me using the trident for such an idea that would result in more conflict," said Titus who knew these humans wouldn't submit so easily and would still fight back.
"It's better than what you want to do and this way, you can still try to convince the people to stand by your side," said Ariel who knew the voice of the people is stronger than any weapon. "It's also something I know you could consider doing before going for what you plan to do."
"Hmm…I see," said Titus as he took in her suggestion and didn't really consider doing this. "I had never considered it because I had doubted the people would even consider siding with me. But perhaps…"
"Oh, you've got to be kidding me!" Marina slammed her hands on the table. "You can't be considering listening to this bitch! She doesn't know shit about this world and is only doing this because she doesn't want to lose any of her precious humans!"
"Marina! Watch your language," said Isaac as he spoke up against Marina's cursing.
"Oh, shove it, Isaac! You know what she's suggesting is a terrible idea and is going to lead to a never-ending war," said Marina who argued back against Isaac.
"So, you're telling me you're fine with children dying? You're fine with drowning the world? I guess I shouldn't be surprised by your response considering your…" Ariel stopped herself when she realized what she's doing.
"Because I'm what? Go on, say it," said Marina as she waited for Ariel to finish it.
"Marina," Titus begins speaking up, but Marina motioned for him to stop.
"No! I want to hear her say it. Because I'm what…" Marina replied while waiting for Ariel's response.
Ariel sighed and knew this was going to happen, but had hoped to avoid it since she promised she wouldn't bring it up. "Marina, I know who your mother is and had hope you weren't like her. A monster who cares only for herself and craves power. But you seem to be proving me that you are exactly like her."
"A monster, right?" Marina begins to laugh softly before lowering her head. Her laughter then grew as she lifted her head slowly back up to face Ariel. "Well, since you wanted to hear everyone's story, perhaps I should tell you mine."
"Marina, that's enough," said Titus as he tried to stop this, but Marina slammed her hands back on the table.
"She heard from everyone else, right?! Why shouldn't I tell my story?" Marina asked as she turned to Titus as her laughter began to subside but looked like she was struggling. "Don't you think that's fair?"
Titus sighed as he turned to the crew, who knew this whole thing got awkward, before turning to Ariel, who looked like she regretted what she did. But he also felt she needed to hear this. He gives Marina a small nod and leans back against his seat.
Marina turned to Ariel and began to regain her composure. "I am the daughter of Ursula, the Sea Witch and also to a human she met long ago. A human who made a deal with her, who in exchange, gave my mother his seed so she could give birth to a child. A child who she hoped would help her get the trident and become ruler of the sea."
"Who that human was? Who knows. But it was clear it was someone that didn't care for her and got whatever they wanted. I wasn't worth it to them. Only thing I do know is the human had a scar around his right arm and a strange tattoo on the bicep," said Marina as she spoke with such venom in her tone, while Ariel noticed Titus' expression change a little with what Marina said, while rubbing his right arm.
Marina then begins moving her seat back before she walks down along the dinner table behind the crew. "However, the poor child turned out to lack any magical talents. No matter how much she tried and how much hard work she put in, the girl was still unable to grow in her magic. So, she threw the poor girl out, called her worthless, useless, and would never be like her, a mastery of magic."
Marina stopped and stood in front of the table, before she circled her fingernail along the wooden table. "So, the poor girl left to find a way to grow stronger. In the hopes she will grow stronger in magic, become a master at it, and regain the love of her mother. To find her purpose again."
"It took time, years even, but she managed to finally become a master of magic and was ready to return to her mother. But when she returned, she found her mother, killed by a human and his mermaid love," said Marina as she walked back to where her seat is at, and her eyes locked on to Ariel. She then lifted her right arm and pointed at her.
"You took away my chance to regain the love of my mother. The chance to be accepted by her. And the chance to prove I wasn't worthless to her. Because of you and that human husband of yours, I've lost my purpose."
Ariel listened to what Marina told her and now understood why she hated her. It wasn't for the reason she thought it was. It was because she never got recognition and love from her mother. Something she may not be able to relate to or understand, because her own mother loved her very much.
She also understood why Marina wasn't around when Ursula came for her. She was trying to get stronger and prove she wasn't useful. Despite knowing all of this though, it didn't change how she felt.
"I'm sorry for what you went through with your mother. I do, but…I'm not sorry she died," said Ariel as she stood her ground, even if she knew Marina would be pissed off at her.
"Your mother was a monster. She tricked countless Merpeople into making deals with her, which resulted in them becoming her slaves. She manipulated me because she wanted my father's trident. She then tried to kill Eric, my friends, and me," said Ariel as she placed her hands on the table and stared intensely at Marina.
"I'm not sorry that she's dead or that we killed her. And you shouldn't care either. It sounds like she never cared about you. She wanted to use you, like she did with me, and threw you out into the cold all alone," said Ariel as she tried to show Marina that Ursula never cared for her. "What mother, what real mother would throw their own flesh and blood out? I know what a real mother is like, because I am one and I would never do that to my own daughter."
Ariel then stood up and placed her right hand along her chest. "A mother would never make their child feel worthless. Our love is for our child is absolute. Your mother was a heartless witch who would sell you out for power. So go ahead and be mad at me as much as you want, but deep down, you know that monster deserved death."
The whole room became silent after Ariel finished speaking. With only the sound of the wood creaking, the waves of the sea hitting against the ship, and the sound of the night crew working was the only thing that could be heard. The crew all knew this wasn't a good sign. Titus looked to Marina and saw her anger building.
Her hands gripping the table with the wood cracking. Her eyes looked towards Ariel and her teeth began to grit against one another. Marina was pissed. And was ready to unleash her wrath.
"How dare you…HOW FUCKING DARE YOU!" Marina's bottom half transformed to form her eight long tentacles. She threw one to grab Ariel's neck and begins tightening its grip, forcing the princess to her knees.
"Marina stop!" Titus stood up and tried to stop her, but Marina knocked her captain away, showing she was incredibly strong.
"Shit," said Isaac as he stood up and motioned for the others to get up.
The twins rushed over and avoided the tentacles, before they grabbed their mistress. Naomi and Noah rushed to Ariel and tried to pull the tentacle off of her neck as she struggled to breathe. Isaac and Raphael pulled their weapons out to cut her tentacles but were stopped by Titus as he pulled them back. He tried to approach Marina again but is tossed again by the tentacles.
Crashing into Isaac and Raphael, while tearing at Titus' right arm sleeve.
The twins are soon grabbed by the tentacles and pulled off, before being tossed away. Marina then used her tentacles to grab Naomi and Noah by their necks, then forcing them to their knees.
Odina was working on using a syringe to help put Marina to sleep. She then sees what is going on and knows this isn't good. She rushed over and grabbed the captain's sword before tossing it to him.
"Captain! Do it!" Odina shouted.
Titus gets up and sees what is happening and knows he has to end this. He sees Odina throwing his weapon, before he pulled out his sword and lifted it up. "ENOUGH!" the light from the sword illuminated the room, blinding Marina.
Marina managed to regain her vision, before feeling Titus wrapping his arms around her. Hugging her and pulling her close to his body.
"It's okay. It's all right. I've got you," said Titus as he tried to help her calm down.
Marina begins panting heavily as she still felt a lot of anger surging through her body, but when Titus began hugging her and spoke to her in a calming manner. It somehow felt soothing. Her anger soon subsided and returned to normal.
Odina rushed over and injected Marina with the syringe. Helping her go to sleep and pass out in Titus' arms.
Ariel, Naomi, and Noah are soon freed from the tentacles as they struggled to get some air in their bodies. While trying to regain some strength after being choked. Odina soon goes to check on them to see if they're okay and make sure there's no serious injuries.
Isaac and Raphael rushed over to help the others get back to their feet. While checking on them to see if they have any injuries. The twins, meanwhile, stood by Titus as they wait to see if Marina is okay. Despite what happened, they clearly were concerned for her.
"Are you all right, my lady?" Isaac asked as he checked on Ariel.
Ariel coughed loudly as she slowly nodded in response. "Yes…I'm all right…I'll be fine…" she begins to get to her feet with Isaac's help before turning to her friends. "Are you two, okay?"
Noah was still coughing loudly while gasping a bit. Odina checked on him, while Naomi looked on concerned.
"He'll live, but he's going to have a hard time talking and singing for a while," said Odina who knew Noah is lucky Marina didn't crush his windpipe or voice box. "Meaning no singing or talking."
"I…can't sing…for…a…while?" Noah struggled to speak, before he realized Odina is right. "Fuck…that…sucks…"
Ariel sighed in relief that Noah and Naomi are okay, before turning to Marina. She couldn't believe that just happened. Yes, she knew she was going to get mad, but she didn't expect this. Even more so that Marina would attack her own shipmates like that, even Titus.
Titus can feel Marina's body has calmed down before he motioned for Isaac over. Titus whispers something to Isaac, before his second-in-command picks Marina up and takes her away.
Isaac and Odina soon left, before Titus turned to the others.
"Dinner is over. Go back to your quarters. I'll clean this mess up," said Titus as he intends to clean the damages caused by Marina.
"I'll um just grab the food then, sir," said Raphael as he looked to take what is left of the food back to the tray.
"Thank you," said Titus before he turned to the twins. "Go keep Marina company. When she wakes up, keep her in the room till I go see her," he then moved his hand along their cracked masks, causing him to sigh. "I'll also come by with some new masks for you two, okay?"
The twins give a small nod before they give Titus a small head bow and head out of the room.
Titus turned to Ariel before he gave a small sigh. "Naomi, Noah, if you can, please escort Ariel back down to her room and keep her there. Then take the day off tomorrow."
"Aye sir," said Naomi as she grabbed Ariel's sleeve and motioned for her to follow them.
Ariel nods, knowing she didn't want to cause more trouble. As she left though, she noticed Titus' right sleeve torn off and saw a scar around his arm. She also noticed a tattoo on his bicep. One that seemed to be the same one Marina described. The one she described about who her father…
Ariel gave a small gasp as she realized what she discovered. "Are you all right?" Naomi asked when she heard the gasp from Ariel.
"Oh, um yes, I'm fine. Let's um just go," said Ariel who didn't want to tell Naomi what she discovered.
However, she knew she'll need to confront Titus about this later. Once things calmed down on the ship. She can only hope what she said about what Titus can do with the trident will help change his mind. She has a week to do it, so she has to try and change his ways.
While deep down, she also knew she'd need to confront Marina again. But this time, do it in a peaceful manner and make amends for what she did.
I have to try ending this never-ending cycle of hatred. If I can do that, then maybe, I can stop Titus from ending the world. Ariel thought as she followed her friends out and knew she has seven days to save the world, before it's too late.
There we go with the end of the chapter, and I got to say, I really had fun with this. After all the stories that others have told, I think it's safe to say they're not all bad people. They all were just handed a bad hand and suffered for it. Until Titus came in and saved them.
I also didn't want Titus to be a generic villain or come off as being an evil monster. I wanted to show he's someone who is bad but has a good heart too. Someone who despite hating humans, still has a soft spot for those who have suffered. Maybe its enough to help redeem him of his actions?
Who's to say?
Also, I wanted to give more background of why Marina hates Ariel. I know some will feel her reason for hating Ariel is dumb, but when you think about it, it makes sense. There is sadly a lot of kids who despite having horrible parents, do all they can to try to win their love. Who try not to disappoint them and live up to their expectations.
And sadly? These parents don't seem to care. They only want their kids to succeed so they can either feed off their success or use them because they never succeeded in life. That's not parenting.
I wanted to do that with Ursula and Marina's relationship. Showing Ursula never cared for her daughter, but only used her for power. Ursula was never a character who can be redeemed. But Marina, has been working hard to try to win her mom's love, will need to realize that was never going to happen.
And yeah, if you got the hint of who her dad is, then you'll see how it'll come to play later. While I'll also show why Titus did what he did and why he has Marian around.
How will things go for Ariel next time? Think her plan to change Titus' plan will work? Also, how do you think the others are doing? Think they'll catch up to Titus and his crew?
Tune in next time to find out & thank you all for the support for my friend. He appreciates all the support for his story and if you like how this chapter went, then please leave some reviews. Just nothing negative please. See you all next time, take good care, and have a good day.
Also, for those wondering how the characters sound like. Well, in my head, these are actors who I'd pick for them to sound like (or who they played from the canon films):
Main Protagonist:
Queen Ariel – Jodi Benson
Princess Melody – Tara Strong
King Eric – Christopher Daniel Barnes
King Triton – Kenneth Mars
Attina – Kari Wahlgren
Urchin – Danny Cooksey
Sally – Awkwafina
Gabriella Sparrow – Sarah-Nicole Robles
Lara the Fairy – Brenda Song
Lapis – Ashly Burch
Side Characters:
Alana – Jennifer Hale
Aquata – Grey DeLisle
Arista – Grey DeLisle
Adella – Tara Strong
Andrina – Tara Strong
Sebastian – Samuel E. Wright
Flounder – Jason Marin
Grimsby – Ben Wright
Carlotta – Edie McClurg
Captain Bryan – Jon Favreau
Captain Nereus – Chris Parnell
Lyra – Marina Satti
Polyphemus – Manos Katrakis
Main Antagonist:
Titus – Temuera Morrison
Marina – Elsie Lovelock
Isaac – Idris Elba
Raphael – Danny Trejo
Naomi – Anna Akana
Noah – Michael Kovach
Mei & Mai Katsumoto – Olivia Hack
Odina – Amber Midthunder