Piranha in Floaties

"Alright," Aresenn grumbled, his voice echoing against the roiling waves of Hermit Cove. The tide was high, dark waters lapping at the gravelly shore. The sun was high in the sky, casting a shimmering reflection over the rippling expanse. "Let's see if we can get your paws wet." Silhouetted against the warm glow of fading sunlight, Aresenn's muscular form loomed above his daughter. His piercing amber eyes were focused on the fidgeting pup, a hint of amused challenge underlying his expression. He pressed forward, guiding her towards the water's edge where the frothy surf met the stony shoreline. But of course, he wouldn’t force her if she didn’t want to join him.

It was hard for him to look at a beach and think of his own childhood with Pirate’s Plunder. The ocean brought him a sense of nostalgic solace that he was happy to indulge in. Aresenn didn’t hesitate, wading out into the tide. The chill of the sea was familiar, a welcome sensation against the heat of the Auster summer. Aresenn didn’t go out very far- it would probably be just far enough to touch her belly should he choose to try and follow him out. After all, he couldn’t imagine that it would be well received back home if her mother found out that she had lost a daughter at sea. "Come on, Xi," he called over the steady thrum of the waves. “There’s nothing to fear. Just don’t get the water in your mouth or eyes.” He grinned, trying to infuse some lightness into the situation.

260 / 1500 words
"Aresenn Praetor"