The dawn broke with a soft pink glow, the sea sparkling like scattered gems. Kenji and Sora stood at the edge of the shore, stretching their arms and legs, preparing for what would be their first extended fishing trip. This wasn't just a simple morning haul—this was a day to test stamina, skill, and teamwork, all while saving for their dream: a boat.
Sora bounced impatiently. "Papa Kenji! I can't wait! Today I'll catch the biggest fish ever!"
Kenji smiled, adjusting the strap of their net. "Patience, Sora. We aim for steady growth, not just one flashy catch. Today, we'll practice technique, timing, and observation. The sea rewards those who learn."
The boy's enthusiasm didn't falter. "I'll watch carefully, Papa Kenji! I promise!"
Morning Preparations
In their small shack, Kenji spread their gear: the new sturdy net, extra ropes, a small wooden basket, and a cloth to protect Sora from the morning chill. He reached for the coin pouch and counted aloud:
📜 Kenji's Savings Before the Trip
Current balance: 224 copper
Sora's eyes sparkled. "We're getting close to 300! Papa Kenji, a real boat is almost ours!"
Kenji nodded. "Yes, but the journey to 300 copper is just as important as reaching it. Today, we'll see how far we can go together."
They ate a simple breakfast of bread and dried fish, then headed toward the docks, careful to avoid the puddles from last night's rain. The village was already stirring, merchants calling out, children laughing. Some villagers watched them go, curious and cautious.
On the Water
Once they were knee-deep in the water, Kenji began the day's lesson. "Observe the tide, Sora. Feel its pull. The fish often gather where currents meet or water is slightly cooler. Watch carefully—your instincts will guide you."
Sora crouched, dipping his fingers in the water. "I can feel it, Papa Kenji. Something's moving near the rocks!"
Kenji smiled faintly, a mix of pride and caution. "Good. Cast carefully there, but don't overreach. Let the net do the work."
Sora swung the net, the weights hitting the water with a satisfying splash. The net opened wide, sinking smoothly. Kenji guided the haul, muscles straining as he pulled alongside Sora. When the net reached shore, it was heavy—sardines, mackerel, and a surprisingly large sea bass wriggling at the edges.
Sora's eyes shone. "Look at that, Papa Kenji! The sea is blessing me again!"
Kenji laughed softly. "Blessed by courage, Sora. That's what matters. Now, let's sort the fish."
Village Encouragement
By mid-morning, word of their haul reached the market. Villagers gathered, some to buy, some to watch. Hanae the innkeeper grinned.
"Kenji! Sora! I'll take half for sixty copper. Keep the rest to sell to the other villagers."
Kenji nodded. "Thank you, Hanae. Your trust means more than the coins."
Another merchant, old Taro, approached. "I'll buy twenty copper worth for the stew tonight. You're becoming quite the fishermen."
Sora practically danced. "Papa Kenji! We're earning more today than ever!"
Kenji carefully added the new earnings to his pouch:
📜 Kenji's Earnings (Updated)
Previous balance: 224 copper
Day 13 sales: +80 copper
= 304 copper total
Sora's jaw dropped. "Papa Kenji… we did it! We have enough for a boat!"
Kenji held up a finger, smiling. "Not yet, Sora. We have enough, but we must also save for the proper equipment, repairs, and a little extra for emergencies. A boat isn't just wood—it's security, safety, and freedom."
Riku's Shadow
Riku, watching from the far end of the docks, clenched his fists. "They're getting ahead… too fast. That boy is dangerous, and Kenji's growing stronger. I can't let them take the village's respect for themselves."
He paced along the docks, plotting subtle sabotage—loosen ropes, misplace tools, whisper doubts to gullible villagers. The plan wasn't to destroy them yet, only to test their resilience and patience.
Kenji noticed the glint of malice in Riku's eyes but didn't call him out. He had learned that overt confrontation rarely solved anything; the sea, patience, and persistence were stronger teachers.
Sora leaned on Kenji's arm, whispering, "Papa Kenji… Riku looks angry. Will he hurt us?"
Kenji smiled reassuringly. "Not today, Sora. Today we focus on what we can control: our nets, our skills, and our courage."
Afternoon Practice
The tide shifted, and the sea grew restless. Kenji decided to practice deep-water casting with Sora, teaching him to read currents and timing. The boy struggled at first, the net heavier than his small hands could fully manage, but his instincts guided him.
"Pull gently… let the sea do the work!" Kenji instructed.
Sora nodded, concentrating. With a final heave, the net opened perfectly, trapping a school of mackerel and a small tuna.
Sora gasped. "Papa Kenji… did we catch a tuna? I never thought I'd see one!"
Kenji nodded, smiling through sweat. "Yes, Sora. And that's why we practice. Bigger fish require patience, skill, and timing. Today, you've learned all three."
The boy beamed, pride swelling in his chest.
Evening Reflections
By sunset, they returned to their shack, exhausted but elated. Kenji counted the coins, careful and precise:
📜 Kenji's Savings (Updated)
Previous balance: 304 copper
Day 13 sales: +50 copper from the evening market
= 354 copper total
Sora's eyes widened. "Papa Kenji… we have enough to buy a small boat AND some supplies!"
Kenji nodded thoughtfully. "Yes, but first we plan carefully. A hasty decision can sink us before we even set sail. Tomorrow, we'll visit the shipwright and see what's available. And we'll decide how much to save for rigging, sails, and nets."
Sora hugged his father tightly. "Papa Kenji… I can't wait to sail the sea with you!"
Kenji smiled, holding him close. "Soon, Sora. Soon we'll feel the wind in our sails and the horizon stretching before us. But remember… a boat is more than freedom. It's responsibility. And we'll learn that together."
Lessons Learned
As night fell, Kenji reflected on the day:
Skill and patience mattered more than luck.
Sora's blessing wasn't magical—it was courage and intuition.
Persistence and integrity won the trust of allies in the village.
Riku's schemes required vigilance but were no match for teamwork and wisdom.
Kenji felt a deep sense of purpose. Every coin, every haul, every lesson learned brought them closer to their dream—a small boat, their own corner of the sea, and a life built together.
Sora, sleeping soundly beside him, murmured, "Papa Kenji… one day, we'll sail beyond the horizon. I know it."
Kenji whispered back, voice firm and filled with hope: "Yes, Sora. And we'll do it together."