* The storm: Ariel and Flounder swim to the surface of the ocean to watch a human ship. During a storm, the ship sinks and Ariel saves the life of a human prince named Eric. She is immediately smitten with him.
* The sea witch: Ariel visits the sea witch, Ursula, who agrees to turn her into a human for three days so that she can meet Eric. In return, Ursula takes Ariel's voice.
* Ariel on land: Ariel meets Eric and they fall in love. However, Ursula's plan is to keep Ariel captive so that she can use her voice to rule the sea.
* The climax: Ursula transforms into a giant sea creature and battles King Triton. Ariel breaks the spell by destroying Ursula's magic shell, killing her.
* The wedding: Ariel and Eric get married and live happily ever after.