Rabbit Hole Carnival: Searching

Renee yawned, as she walked down the stairs. “We open this early?”

“Not usually.” Nick replied. “This was an old friend, and an old favor. Sorry to wake you.”

“Oh Caspian, welcome.” Renee replied. “And you didn’t wake me, I was going to the bathroom and some crates opened. Was almost gonna call the cops, but I saw Daddy down here.”

“So this is her, ey?” Caspian said. “The lass anchor free?”

“Didn’t know I was that famous.” Renee said. “I suppose I should’ve guessed given how many barrels ended up at the dock.”

“Nothing fuels a good search like a good drink, Miss Shem, and yours have been given hope for quite a while now.” Caspian Replied.

“What are you all searching for though?” Renee asked. “What’s out there?”

“The unknown, Miss Shem.” Caspian said. “Things few people ever see ‘less we bring it back.”

“Renee, Please.” Renee replied. “And I think you find the unknown right where we are, Caspian.”

“Along with the bitter known, Renee. Not that I need to tell you that.” Caspian said. “The sea holds no such limits.”

“Just rough water, an unknown path, and the harshness of an uncaring ocean.” Renee said. “I’d rather the caring of somewhere safe and comforting.”

“Not an unwise choice.” Caspian replied. “Let’s get down to a sailor’s business though, if I may?”

“Caspian, she just got up.” Nick said. “I don't know how good it’s gonna be.”

“Shouldn’t have said it that way, Nick old boy.” Caspian said.

“So this challenge from both of you?” Renee asked.

“Renee that isn’t—” Nick said.

“Legend foretells you tell anyone’s drink of choice just by looking at them, Miss Renee.” Caspian said. “Let’s see how true that is.”

 “I warn you I already have an idea in mind.” Renee replied, leaning on the counter. “But let me just make sure.”

Caspian leaned in as well. “I haven’t had anyone read me in 40 years. Not even Nick here.”

“My gift is different old friend.” Nick said. “Renee is doomed to be a close second at best.”

“You two boys exchange whatever stories you like.” Renee replied. “I’ll be right back.” She walked behind the counter.

“You didn’t put her up to this, right?” Caspian asked. “I’ve paid my dues, you know, you got no right.”

“I promise you, Caspian.” Nick said. “You have my word on Anchor seller’s creed. She just knows.”

“How?” Caspian asked. “Someone else must’ve asked.”

“Plenty have asked.” Renee said, planting a drink down in front of him. “Few actually understand.”

“Is that so?” Caspian lifted the mug and took a sip, then a chug, and then slammed an empty mug down. “Well I for one want another of whatever this is, and then an answer.”

“Coming right up.” Renee before walking behind the bar.

“You do realize—” Nick said.

“I know what I said, Nicholas.” Caspian dug into
his pockets. “I ain’t that far gone.” He gave the full payment. “Even if I didn't, it ain't in me to flee without a proper pay.”

“People, at least the kind worth serving, often give away a desire.” Renee said. “Whether they realize it, want it or don’t. It carries through them, and, provided you know how to read it, shine through. Especially in their eyes. And yours portray likeness to a close friend of mine. One for whom I made this very drink for, in fact.”

“Why would that be?” Caspian asked.

“One is landlocked, and one combs the sea.” Renee said. “But no matter how traverse thing, they are both always searching.”