Gilded Bay the depths are calling

from afar, govinda watched the man, marveling at his pluck. he liked a good swim, himself, but the water was dreadfully cold this time of year, and the air no comfort, either. dips were fine in the summer, but now. . . he stepped closer, coming down onto the beach, his paws leaving perfect prints behind him. 

he could call out, but he doubted he would be heard. and what to say, anyway? the stranger had clearly made up his mind to chase the waves. govinda could only hope to be something of a comfort, in warm demeanor and words, when the man emerged again. 

if, corrected a small voice in his head, which he ignored.