Prologue
The ocean is truly a sight to behold. Its frothy waves thundering in to shore. Its brilliant waters caught in an endless dance, its arms intertwined in those of the moon. Cool, refreshing water swirling around in magnificent arcs; the untamed thrill one experiences when one has conquered a surging wave; the gentle touch of the water as it glides over the wet sand. The salty tang that riddles the air and tickles the senses of those who come near to experience the majesty. Most people consider the ocean a thing of infinite beauty.
I do not.
When I look at the ocean, I see it for what it truly is: a creature of unfathomable torment. It's brooding surface silently sitting, a lion stalking its prey. Its tremulous waters hide horrific secrets of untold treasure and alien monsters in its murky depths. It is an ancient and powerful being that often hovers in indecision between calm serenity and raging anger. It shatters mighty ships as if it was a twig and swallows the crumbling pieces into its own endless abyss. It is a thing to keep your distance from.
And yet, it holds a strange place in my heart. I repulse it; yet yearn for it. An invisible force continually pulls me toward it. I am a fish hooked on the line. The fisherman is constantly reeling me in. Still, I swim away, hoping beyond hope that maybe this time I will free myself from the iron-like grip it holds me in.
Every day is another choice to me. Do I condemn myself to the horrors of the alluring sea, or push it to the back of my mind and stay as far away as possible? The choice is mine alone.