The morning sun glinted off the calm waters as Kenji and Sora returned to Minato with a haul that would allow them to finally upgrade the Triton, Son of Poseidon. Sora bounded along the docks, excitement practically lifting him off his feet.
"Papa Kenji! Today, the Triton will be stronger, faster… and ready for bigger adventures!"
Kenji smiled, feeling the pride and anticipation of the moment. "Yes, Sora. But remember, upgrades aren't just about speed or size—they're about efficiency, safety, and being ready for anything the sea might throw at us."
Planning the Upgrades
At the docks, Kenji met with Master Ishikawa, who had already prepared materials:
Stronger nets capable of holding larger catches
Reinforced hull sections to handle rougher seas
New sails for better speed and maneuverability
Kenji counted their savings carefully:
📜 Kenji's Savings Before Upgrade
Total: 379 copper
Cost of upgrades: 200 copper
= 179 copper remaining
Sora's eyes sparkled. "Papa Kenji… the Triton is going to be amazing! I can't wait to sail!"
Kenji chuckled. "Patience, Sora. We'll test everything carefully, and then we'll see just how capable the Triton has become."
Testing the Triton
With the upgrades complete, they launched the Triton back into the water. Sora helped hoist the new sails while Kenji guided the boat out to deeper waters. The Triton responded beautifully—faster, steadier, and more agile than ever before.
"Papa Kenji! Look! We can glide over the waves!" Sora shouted, his voice full of joy.
Kenji nodded, adjusting the helm. "Yes, Sora. And this is just the beginning. A well-prepared boat lets us focus on fishing, exploring, and staying safe."
Encounter at Sea
While testing the Triton, a familiar shadow appeared on the horizon. Riku had followed them, clearly intent on interference. This time, he had a slightly larger crew and was equipped to intimidate.
"Kenji!" Riku shouted across the waves. "Think you can outrun me with a new boat? Let's see how your luck holds in open water!"
Sora gripped the railing, worry flashing in his eyes. "Papa Kenji… he's coming!"
Kenji took a deep breath. "Stay calm, Sora. We've prepared for this. We'll use skill, not anger, and the Triton will carry us safely."
Riku tried to cut their nets and scatter their catch with quick maneuvers, but the upgraded Triton's stability and speed allowed Kenji and Sora to evade him while still hauling in new fish. Sora's intuition guided their actions, anticipating Riku's attempts.
Afternoon Success
By late afternoon, the sea had calmed. Kenji and Sora surveyed their catch: a mixture of silver sardines, sea bream, and a few small tunas—perfect for the village market.
📜 Kenji's Earnings (Updated)
Previous balance: 179 copper
Day 19 sales: +90 copper
= 269 copper total
Sora's eyes shone. "Papa Kenji! Look! We're getting closer to even bigger upgrades and maybe a new fishing spot!"
Kenji nodded. "Yes, Sora. But remember—every step forward requires care, observation, and teamwork. Today we've proven that upgrades, preparation, and patience work together."
Evening Reflection
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Kenji and Sora anchored near a quiet cove. They grilled a few of the day's fish over a small fire, savoring the simple meal after a day of hard work.
Sora leaned against Kenji. "Papa Kenji… I feel like the Triton is almost alive! Like she knows we're ready for anything!"
Kenji smiled warmly. "In a way, Sora… she is alive. Every coin spent, every skill learned, every challenge faced… it all brings her—and us—closer to greatness."
Riku's presence lingered in the distance, a reminder that rivalry and danger were never far behind. But Kenji and Sora felt stronger, more confident, and ready to meet the next wave of challenges head-on.