Coffee & Characters: The Abyss

"The Abyss"

I sat at the front of the ship, gazing into the mist. The sea was calm, breaking upon the hull in a rhythmic melody. It was soothing. So far gone was I that I did not hear the Captain approach.

"They say if you stare into the abyss for too long, it will begin to stare back at you." The words rippled through my body.

"Mother f- I- heh." I believe those were my first words. Such an inspiring retort. "Sorry, Captain. Lost in thought."
"Such apologies are not necessary. Be at ease." The Captain had a way of creating a ground of equality that I was never able to reciprocate. I suppose that's why he was the Captain, and I was not. "I hope I wasn't interrupting," he continued.
"No Captain, not at all."

He reached into his coat pocket and pulled out his flask. I always admired it. A beautiful polished metal with a leather covering, upon which a winged dragon was carved. I mused at what delicate liquor floated inside. He stole a swig and looked at me.

"Care for a taste?" he offered.
"Such a kind offer, Captain. I'd be honored."

I fought the urge to swipe at the vessel lest he discover how eager I was to indulge. Down the hatch.

I was immediately consumed by the fire held within that winged beast.

*Cough* "Christ, Captain. No wonder a dragon adorns the cover of your flask," I choked. "It's like breathing fire!" He chuckled with amusement. "Sure is smooth though, once it settles," I toughly exclaimed, hoping to save face.

"It's out there, you know, the Abyss. A creature larger than a dragon. Larger than one could conjure in their wildest of minds."
"Ive heard of such a beast," I responded. "I hope I find such fortune that I never come across it."
"Well then, you best finish off the rest of that whisky, kid, because I don't think the gods were paying attention. Don't worry yourself, though. I don't plan on being beast fodder today."