HC SVNT DRACONES

HC SVNT DRACONES.
The black letters stared up at him in stark defiance.
Hic sunt dracones, as it was read in the Latin.
Fearful words. Anathema to all sense of self-importance, to all sense of racial accomplishments.
Here be dragons.
Unexplored, uncharted, unknown regions. While new species, lifeforms, undiscovered. Medicines and pathogens alike, both virgin in their existence, untouched and unspoiled. For all he knew, an entire civilisation could be out there and then they would share the knowledge and wonders of Science and Technology for the advancement of life as they knew it.
He would be the first to explore this new land, the New World, and create colonies, spreading the influence of the great Empire. He was proud to be part of this effort to reach the rest of the Earth. His men were brave of heart and bold of flesh, his ships made of stout wood and the sails made from hardy cloths. He could not ask for a better fleet. His task was sanctioned by the Queen and blessed by God, he could not fail, nor could he go wrong.
And yet... The thought faltered, unwilling to resolve itself. He brushed aside the lingering doubts and stepped out from his cabin, taking the map with him. He had spent the past few days in the ship, getting its feel and learning the lay of the land. His mobile plot of land on the sea, he amended mentally with a smile. The wind was right and good, a sign that his mission truly was the will of God and he knew that today was the right time to set sail.
And yet... The doubt surfaced once more. Somehow... He looked at his map of the world again.
HC SVNT DRACONES.
The uncomfortable train of thought cleared. Perhaps...
Hic sunt dracones.
Perhaps there were some places man should never go nor know.
Here be dragons.