The submersible descended into the dark water of the Atlantic, aiming to reach a depth not yet achieved by a private tour company. Their wealthy passengers crowded at the portholes, eager for a few of depths few had ever seen.
The company had learned from the very public failures of the past. The vehicle was state-of-the-art and certified to withstand twice the expected pressures. It made a few groans, and a ping or two, but they were perfectly safe.
Outside, the merfolk circled the craft, carefully avoiding the portholes. The Deep Sea was their domain, and they would keep it.

“Cyclops 1 Submersible” by Isabeljohnson25 is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Everyday Drabbles © 2025 by Hugh J. O’Donnell is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.