In the royal hall.
"Why get angry over such a trivial matter, friends who have come from afar?" the king said, trying to smooth things over.
"As it happens, there is a songstress in my court with an incomparably beautiful voice. I swear, it is the most melodious and enchanting singing I have ever heard! You will certainly like it." The king smiled, then looked toward Ariel. "Quick, sing a song for the distinguished guests from Engeland."
He had complete confidence in Ariel's singing. No matter how angry these foreign envoys were, once they heard that beautiful, captivating voice, they would forget their earlier fury.
I don't want to sing for that Old Witch! Ariel thought.
But her thoughts immediately changed. But Prince Eric is here too. I should sing for him! Ever since he learned my true identity, ever since he truly proposed to me, I haven't sung for him yet!
Ariel lifted her skirt and slowly walked to the center of the hall. Her graceful, beautiful steps drew endless praise from the nobles and ministers, as well as the envoys from Engeland.
The Mermaid Princess began to sing.
As the young girl sang, her gaze remained fixed upon Prince Eric's handsome face.
Ariel sang with more focus and sincerity than ever before.
She did not sing any song she had sung before, but a song praising great love.
At times, her voice was as gentle as birdsong; at times, it soared and rang like clouds parting before a mighty cry. At times, it was like the newborn sun rising above the sea's surface, radiant and bright; at times, it was as violent as surging ocean tides, rising and falling in great waves; and at times, it was like turbulent undercurrents beneath the sea, gathering strength beneath stillness and