He eased awake, completely relaxed, before realizing just where he was. He sat up and looked around in mounting horror.
He was back in his room in Kane Manor. Before he could spiral completely, a screen popped up in front of him.
[Yo, man. It's your assigned ROB. First of all, sorry that your reincarnation was marred by suffering and pain. Your second life is supposed to be better than your previous, not worse, so sorry for that.]
[Second, you've been returned to when you were 18, but without the system. I feel your mind should remain your own this go around.]
[Finally, to compensate for your loss of a system, you get to spin a dice, and the number it lands on is the number of powers you get.]
Vincent stared at the cartoon dice slowly spinning in front of him, just completely numb. He sacrificed himself for someone loved as a way to break free, but now he was back? Why? He was ready to go. He became one with the void. He was free! So, why?!
[It's because you're the first to kill themselves after reincarnation, not in a heroic sacrifice, nor did you die fighting. I really don't need that on my record, so roll the damn dice, then live your life better. Learn to love yourself before loving others.]
The fact that ROB was doing this for their sake instead of for his oddly made this more acceptable. He grabbed the dice, blew on it, then let it fly. When it stopped tumbling around the room, it flew back to him with the six at the top.
[Huh. Lucky you. I didn't expect that all. Well, as promised, six powers are yours.]
[Congratulations! You have received HUD Contacts from the Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy!]
[Note- Contact lenses fitted with the latest micro tech in it's universe! Capable of analyzing terrain, aim assist, and systems display! Not even the Supernatural can hide from your gaze!]
[Congratulations! You have received the Magic for Dummies book!]
[Note- Explaining every spell and ritual in a way that makes sense to even a dummy like you! Grow from a fledgling mage to a Master of the Mystic Arts from just reading one book!]
[Yes, magic is real. It was always real in your world, you just never encountered it because, it was mostly an underground thing. You gotta be in the know to know, y'know?]
[Congratulations! You have received Quasi-God of Combat!]
[Note- A Grandmaster of all forms of combat, armed or unarmed!]
[Congratulations! You have received the 'Physique' of Garou from One Punch Man!]
[Note- Who can compare to you now?]
[Congratulations! You have received Supergenius level intellect.]
[Note- You have no intellectual equal in this universe, but that's just fine. That just means that you're destined to rule it.]
[Congratulations! You have received the Major Blessing of Apollo]
[Note- You can play any instrument to the level of a Master, and you can sing better than all with an impossible vocal range. You can draw, paint, sculpt, everything under the banner of art to the level of a grandmaster that spent their entire life on art.]
[Congratulations! You have received Sex Master!]
[Note- You are the most cunning of linguists, and the beast of the bed! No one who couples with you can find someone better! Please fuck responsibly.]
[Alright! With all this, 'suicide' should just be a seven letter word to you. If you do it again, I'm sending your soul to the omniverse's worst version of Hell! If you die, it better be totally out of your control!]
"Message received." Vincent uttered, a sharp chill running up his spine. The very next second, he felt every muscle in his body twitching and tensing. If he was focused on it, he'd see them become bigger and more defined. Instead, his focus was disrupted entirely by his mind expanding to impossible lengths. It was almost as if he could feel his brain getting more wrinkles as he gained deeper understanding to things he only had inklings to in the past. Thankfully, he was still in bed, so his thrashing was confined to a comfortable surface.
By the time it was over, he crawled off the bed and stumbled his way into the bathroom. He leaned on the wall, allowing the shower water rain onto him. The warm water seemed to pour energy into him as he started to stand under his own power. He went to grab his lofa when he saw how defined the muscles on his arm was. Looking down showed him an incredibly cut physique that he gaped at incredulously.
"Fuck, dude." He muttered. "Garou had an insane build."
He cleaned himself and exited his shower. Looking at the calendar, he saw that it was the first day of summer break before college. First thing he needed was move the rest of his money to a new account, then find himself somewhere to live, then invest, make and sell music from his first life, then profit.
He expected to find that all his clothes would no longer fit, only to be surprised that a few felt the same. He guessed that it was ROB's doing and put it on his mental list to go shopping. He exited the massive manor home without any impediment after getting some needed documents from his late father's office, and went to his motorcycle.
It was around nine in the morning, so the family's lawyer should be in his office already. Driving through the streets in this motorcycle was a great feeling. He remembered when he sold it to prove to Vanessa that he would do anything for her. He shook his head at how pathetic he was.
-
He walked out of City Hall with an air of victory as he went back to his bike. It took about three hours for Mr Barrett to complete the needed paperwork for him to sign. After that, he went to CIty Hall to change his last name. Unlike his previous world, things like changing your name aren't a hassle so long as you have the needed paperwork and pay a small fee for the service. You get a new ID, new birth certificate, and a new social security card all with the new name.
It was around one, so he went to have lunch, taking his time eating from the mom and pop shop. Afterwards, he went to a trunk rental and got a small truck. He drove to Wayne Manor, packed all his the clothes that fit, along with some other things that he couldn't leave behind, and put it in the trunk of the trunk. It only took him about two suitcases to do so. He finally drove to a hotel and got himself a room for a week.
Sitting on the desk chair in his room, he put on the HUD contacts, and felt them meld into his eyes. It was really cool to see the different icons and such, and they could disappear with just a thought, so they weren't cumbersome.
After that, he started reading the Magic for Dummies tome, and he was completely shocked at just how easy it was to use those spells, but very quickly remembered that he was now a supergenius reading a book for dummies, so of course it was simple for him. He got through a chunk of it, while also enjoying some takeout for dinner.
After dedicating some time on magic, he decided that it was time to use his future knowledge for investments. In the past, he would keep a sharp eye on the business world and make comprehensive opinions on the various topics regarding it just so that he could find common ground with his stepmother and sister. Unfortunately, every attempt was futile, and his stepsister saw it as confirmation that he was trying to compete with her for the business.
What neither of them knew was that the business was rightfully his. His father created it long before he remarried, and willed it to him. His stepmother is basically like a regent until he could rightfully sit on the throne. So there was no competition, it was his. He just never said that to spare their feelings, not that it mattered anymore.
After opening a stock account, Vincent spent time just watching TV, relaxing in his temporary residence.
-
Katarina Wayne sat in her office at Wayne Tower, the headquarters of Wayne Enterprises. She was a gorgeous woman with vibrant red hair, a curvy body, and a light scar on her left eye.
"Mrs Wayne? Your 12:00 is here." The intercom in her office phone announced.
"Send them in, Rita." She answered before returning to her paperwork. She glanced up to see her family's lawyer enter, and a frown appeared on her face. Usually, he crushes any legal issues that might crop up, but there's the rare occasion where someone sufficiently powerful makes problems. "Jackson? What's the issue?"
"No issue, Mrs Wayne, at least, not from my end." The lawyer assured. "It's why I scheduled this short meeting with your secretary instead calling you directly days ago."
He approached and handed the curious CEO a folder. "And what is this?"
"That, madam, is all the paperwork that the one formerly known as Vincent Thomas Wayne signed to relinquish everything tying him to the Wayne family. He signed away his inheritance, his shares, even his name. The only things he kept was his father's watch collection, and the trust account that was fully available to him when he turned 18." He explained. "Now that you have that, my job is complete."
The man left after that, leaving behind a confused woman. Seeing the various papers confirming that Vincent truly cut all ties with the Wayne family, Katarina oddly felt a growing ache in her chest.
Something about Vincent leaving was just so fundamentally wrong, like it was an impossible event that shouldn't have happened.
She always thought him as a disappointment, and an annoyance, always bugging her about nonsense. She didn't care for him at all. She even had sex with Liam Sinclair in his room without a thought, but it seemed to really drive Liam wild.
That idle thought sent a metaphorical dagger in heart.
As the reality of Vincent's departure ruminated and sank in, it was like a carefully woven spell was slowly unraveling. What no one but ROB knew was that the nature of this world tried its hardest to suppress the influence of Vincent, because there was a script that needed to be followed. This world, this novel, was designed for Liam Sinclair, the Protagonist, to win.
The women around him, Katarina included, were subconsciously more susceptible to Liam and his charm. Vincent was just a background character, or a minor antagonist at most; someone around just to make the Protagonist seem better by comparison.
Now that Vincent went so irrevocably off script, the fog is being lifted, and the ache in Katarina's heart increased. Her vision grew blurry, and she swipe at her eye only to find her mascara running. It was taking a long time to compose herself, because, the moment she realized she was crying, the tears increased.
"What have I done?" She whispered to herself hoarsely.
She grew increasingly worried, because she didn't think Vincent could handle being on his own. She knew of his trust, but she felt that he'd squander it. She worried that he didn't know what to do with the limited amount of money he was left with.
-
"46 million in just 3 days? I knew I'd make a profit, but this is a bit absurd!" Vincent nearly choked on his breakfast when he checked his investment portfolio on his contacts. Using his future knowledge for investment purposes was quick to prove that it was a great idea. Some people would weirdly see some sort of moral issue with his actions, but he decided that he didn't care.
His last life was him trying to become the complete opposite of who he was in his first life. Both were two extremes, so he needed to find a middle ground in this life.
He took out half the money from investments and put it in his bank account, then used the other half to invest in many other profitable ventures.
Finishing his breakfast, he put on his casual clothes, then went to return the rental truck. Riding his bike, he made his way to Wellington Realty, one of the top luxury real estate firms in the city. It was known for its exclusive high-value properties, elite clientele, discreet high-profile transactions, and exceptional customer service.
The building itself exuded wealth. It looked fairly modern for its time, made of glass and polished marble floors, high ceilings, and sleek furniture arranged with meticulous precision. The air smelled faintly of fresh coffee and expensive cologne.
Inside, the reception area buzzed with activity. Well-dressed agents sat behind glass desks, speaking into phones or flipping through thick property portfolios. A few prospective buyers lounged in plush leather seats, sipping complimentary drinks while waiting for their appointments.
The moment Vincent walked in, he immediately drew curious glances. This was expected because, Vincent was a young man dressed casually. At least his new physique made him look like a fit 20 year old instead of a skinny 18 year old. He was far younger than the usual clientele that walked through these doors.
Some agents gave polite smiles before quickly looking away, assuming he was lost or simply accompanying someone else.
Ignoring them, he headed straight to the front desk, still feeling the skepticism in the air. It was subtle at first. The receptionist gave him a brisk once-over, and then returned to her computer. The other agent, a sharply dressed middle-aged man, raised a brow but said nothing, he also assumed the boy was with someone else.
Ignoring it, Vincent strode toward the desk of a pretty woman in her late forties, her light and straight blonde hair reached her shoulders, and she wore rectangular glasses.
She was currently speaking with a broad-shouldered man, middle-aged in an expensive yet slightly outdated suit. The man held an air of arrogance, exuding the confidence of someone used to getting what they wanted. From what Vincent could see, he was trying to purchase a house, and he seemed very adamant on a particular one.
Vincent stretched his neck slightly to peek at the building he wanted to buy. His eyes found the papers in front of them. The price tag was clear: $7,000,000.
'That's pricey.' He thought. His eyes moved to the house in question, then he instantly understood why. It was a modern, high-end property. Spacious. Beautiful. Perfect.
But this man didn't seem willing to go for the one million dollar price. First he said 600 thousand, then 700, then…
"I'll give you eight hundred thousand," he said smoothly, leaning on the desk. "Let's not kid ourselves. This market is competitive, but not that competitive. No one's offering a million cash in a single go."
Vincent's lips curled.
The agent, who seemed tired from trying to explain to the man that the price for such a property was fixed, took a deep sigh. "Please sir, I can't go any lower than the fixed price. This is my job."
The man grunted, shushing her with a wave of his hand. "Look, woman. This is how this is going to go. I—"
"I'll take it for the full price."
Silence.
The man and the agent furrowed their brows, wondering if they'd misheard. The agent looked behind the suited man, who then turned, frowning, before his gaze fell on Vincent's young face.
Then, man burst out laughing. It was a very condescending laugh, rumbling from his chest. "Kid, this isn't a sneaker shop. We're talking real estate. Do you even know what escrow means?"
Vincent raised a brow. "Do you?"
The man's smirk twitched slightly. "Listen, I don't know what kind of game you think you're playing, but this isn't a playground for wannabe millionaires. Now, disappear and let me go on with my business."
Vincent stared straight at the posh looking man, but said nothing more to him. He then turned to the female agent. "Will you sell me the property? Seven million dollars?"
The woman tried to part her lips to speak, moving her gaze between the man and Vincent. "It's just..."
Vincent slipped his hands deeper in his pockets. "An escrow is a contractual arrangement where money or assets are held in trust by an independent agent by the agreement of the parties, which can only be released to the relevant party once certain contractual conditions have been fulfilled." His eyes then coldly moved to the startled man. "But I don't see what an escrow has to do with this property before us. You see, a house like this can't be discounted. It represents a value. Once someone sells it on a discount, that suggests that there has been a fault that has affected the agreed value."
"From a financial standpoint, high-value real estate appreciates faster than lower-tier properties." Vincent continued. "The location alone ensures a steady climb in valuation. Anyone who knows the market understands that a million-dollar home today could be worth 30% more in just a few years. You're simply haggling over a fraction of its future worth."
His eyes flicked to the agent who appeared deeply impressed, before he returned to the man. "Lifestyle factor, comfort, the architecture, the amenities, the location; this house was designed for efficiency and comfort. Just one glance at it and you can see the reasons for its fixed price. Don't you agree?"
He glanced at the agent. "Yes... I do."
"So. Will you sell it to me?" She hesitated. As much as she wanted to say yes, she knew how risky it was. As an agent, she was used to people claiming they wanted to buy houses, but after seeing the place, they never ended up buying.
It became clear they had no intention of buying in the first place and just wanted to experience how it felt to purchase a property. But this guy, even though he appeared very young, seemed to know what he was doing.
On top of that, she had only made one sale this month compared to her younger colleagues who'd made three or more. She badly needed another sale.
"Half now, half after inspection." Vincent interrupted her thoughts, pulling out his phone. He tapped the buttons. "I'll wire 3.5 to the company's account right now."
"What?!" the man exclaimed, seemingly infuriated. "That's not going to happen. Clearly—" he chuckled nervously. "—clearly he's joking."
The woman also was confused and still hesitant, clearly unsure whether to entertain this. But then—
Ding!
The computer by her desk lit up. Her breath caught as she stared at the notification. 'Transaction Received: $3,500,000 – From Mr Arasaka.'
She whipped her gaze back up to Vincent, her entire demeanor shifting. "Forgive my hesitation, sir! Please, let me get the necessary paperwork ready!"
Then she disappeared into a door, seemingly excited. The suited man stiffened. His eyes darkened as he turned to Vincent, suspicion leaking into his voice. 'He just sent her a couple million dollars like that?' "Who the hell are you?"
"Who I am doesn't matter to you." His gaze flicked over the man dismissively. "I just know how to appreciate valuable assets when I see them. It's business. When you see something invaluable, you don't hesitate to make it yours. Opportunities don't usually come twice."
The man's nostrils flared. "So you're educating me now? Do you know who I am? Do you know who you're crossing?"
"I know exactly who you are." He said. "You're a man who just lost his house to a kid."
Then he turned on his heel and headed towards the door, leaving the man dumbfounded and crestfallen. He didn't pay the man any more attention as his focus shifted to the real estate agent who was waving at him, gesturing that she'd gathered the files. He moved to approach, but someone suddenly collided into him.
He managed to catch most of the papers before they fell, but was still shouted at. "Are you blind?! Why don't you watch where you're going!" The woman who had bumped into him was already moving to pick up the rest of the scattered papers, grumbling under her breath.
"Odd thing to scream at someone who you bump into." Her eyes lifted and locked onto his face. Irritation bled into surprise.
"Vincent?"
"Ms Carlisle." He responded neutrally.
"Wha-?"
The sharp sound of heels against the polished flooring interrupted her as the real estate agent returned, a radiant smile on her face.
"The documents are ready, sir." She said, stepping beside him. "Shall we head to the property now for the inspection?"
Josephine Carlisle's head snapped toward the woman, eyes narrowing. 'Property?' She looked back at Vincent, whose expression remained unreadable as he handed her the stack of papers he caught. "What are you doing here, Vincent?"
"I'm minding my own business. You should try it some time, Ms Carlisle." With that, he continued forward, heading to the door. The real estate agent followed beside him, glancing back only once before they both disappeared into the hallway.
Josephine watched, completely stunned at the interaction.
Vincent stepped out of the sleek, glass-paneled entrance of Wellington Realty, the estate agent matching his pace beside him. He glanced at her briefly before speaking. "I arrived in a motorcycle, and I doubt you'd be comfortable on it. Does Wellington offer-"
Before he could finish, a deep purr of an engine caught his attention. A black Cadillac Escalade lookalike glided into view. It was an imposing vehicle. Big, bold, and luxurious, with a wide chrome grille that drew all attention near and far. The tinted windows gave it an air of exclusivity, while the 22-inch alloy wheels rolled to a smooth stop against the curb. The LED headlights flickered briefly before shutting off, leaving the wealthy aura of the car's presence to simmer for a while.
'Maybe I should start thinking of a car.'
The estate agent looked at him and smiled. "Indeed we do offer exclusive transport services." She gestured to the car as the driver stepped out and opened the door. "This vehicle is provided by the company. You'll be taken straight to the property in complete comfort."
Vincent nodded in approval before stepping inside. The interior smelled of fine leather and polished wood, the cabin spacious and designed for both relaxation and authority. The seats, stitched with premium black leather, molded to his frame as he settled in. Across from him, the agent took her seat, crossing her legs neatly, her expression poised and subtly observant.
The driver, an older man dressed in a clean black uniform, turned in his seat. "Good afternoon, sir. I'll be taking you to the most popular wealthy avenue in Neo Hyde: Greenbaby."
Vincent inclined his head slightly in acknowledgment. "Let's go."
The car pulled away, and it drove through the roads, the beautiful city blurred past the tinted windows.
Vincent exhaled slowly, his fingers tapping lightly against the armrest. Throughout the drive, he tried not to think about the woman he spent a long time fruitlessly chancing. Josephine was Vanessa's older sister, and there was no doubt that Josephine will be informing her sister about the run in, and his change of behavior.
He internally shrugged. It's not like he should care anymore. His life does not affect her in anyway, and she no longer has his devotion.
The smooth ride and the soft hum of the engine helped dull his thoughts as the scenery outside began to shift. Soon, the towering buildings gave way to a quieter, more affluent part of the city. The street ahead stretched wide and clean, paved with smooth asphalt and lined with tall oak trees, having lush green canopies that swayed gently in the breeze.
Unlike the bustling downtown, here, everything was serene, elegant, and exclusive. The sidewalks were lined with immaculately maintained gardens, filled with rose bushes, trimmed hedges, and ornate street lamps.
Further down, the rolling hills provided a scenic backdrop, adding to the neighborhood's seclusion. The few houses that dotted the area were grand estates, each unique in design, spaced far apart, emphasizing privacy and luxury.
The estate agent took the opportunity to speak. "Greenbaby is one of the most sought-after locations in the city." She said, her voice finally finding the confidence of someone who knew how to sell. "I must say that you have a fine eye, sir. Quickly choosing this property. In a few years time, to get a property here will be more expensive."
She continued. "Every property here is custom-built, and the neighborhood itself is home to some of the most influential figures. CEOs, entrepreneurs, even a few celebrities." She gestured outside as they passed an elegant Victorian-style mansion, its iron gates adorned with ivy. "You might know the famous Ava Monroe. She lives in that beautiful mansion, though she does enjoy her privacy. Like hers, every estate here is designed for discretion and security, with high-end surveillance and gated access. Not to mention, the investment potential is enormous. Like I mentioned and like you know, this area's property values are set to rise in the next five years."
Vincent listened attentively and soon, the car slowed. The driver pulled into a private driveway, lined with neatly arranged cobblestones leading up to a magnificent house. The door was opened for him and Vincent stepped out, his gaze lifting as he took in the estate before him.
The mansion stood tall and proud, its white stucco exterior accented by sleek black trims and massive floor-to-ceiling windows. A modern masterpiece, yet with subtle European influences. The doorways were arched, balconies were made of wrought-iron, and there was a grand double-door entrance. The roof was designed with dark slate tiles, contrasting beautifully against the pristine white walls. Landscaped gardens surrounded the property, complete with a stone fountain, manicured hedges, and a private pathway leading to a small grove of trees in the back.
The estate agent smiled as she walked beside him. "Seeing it in person is different from looking at pictures, isn't it?"
Vincent gave a short nod. "It is."
She led him up the steps, unlocking the grand doors, and gestured for him to enter. Inside, the foyer was breathtaking. There was a massive crystal chandelier hanging from the high ceiling, casting shimmering light across the tiled floors. A curved staircase with decorated railings led to the second floor, and the open-concept design gave the house a feeling of endless space.
"Let me show you around." The agent said, stepping ahead.
As they walked, Vincent inspected every corner: the living area, with its spectacularly designed ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the backyard pool. The kitchen with the Italian marble countertops, custom oak cabinetry, and state-of-the-art appliances. The master suite, with a private balcony, walk-in closet, and an en-suite bathroom that looked more like a spa.
However, through it all, Vincent couldn't ignore something. The way the estate agent spoke as she explained things. The lingering glances here and there. A slight brush of her fingers when she pointed at something. A playful smile as she caught his eye.
It was obvious.
She was flirting with him.
So far she had tried to keep it professional, but the small hesitations, the subtle nervousness. It was clear. She was interested. Whatever it was she was interested in, he didn't know, but Vincent still remained indifferent.
By the time the tour was over, the agent turned to him, a bright smile on her face. "So," she said expectantly. "What do you think?"
Arms folded, Vincent withdrew his gaze from the room and looked at her. "I still have 3.5 to send, right?"
"Yes, that's correct." She hesitated for a moment, then stepped even closer with a seductive move of her legs and a coy tilt of her head. "But… I wouldn't mind if you left an agent performance gratuity. I promise I'll make it worth your time."
-
Nina awoke groggily at first, then a slight panic as she looked for her phone in her discarded clothes. Checking the time, she breathed a sigh of relief that only few minutes passed. Her notifications also let her know that Vincent paid the rest of the money for the mansion, as well as a significant gratuity. She could pay off her husband's debts with this, and they'd be in more stable waters.
"Ah, good, you're awake." Vincent commented as he returned to the room.
"Thank you, Mr Arasaka. You don't know how much I needed this, both the money and the sex." Nina said, speaking truthfully. She was horribly stressed, and Vincent had a way to easily drag out orgasms from her.
"It's nothing at all. You got me feeling generous." He said while stretching. "So, as you've seen, I've paid the rest needed. If you could give me the relevant documents, that'd be great. There's other things I'd like to do today."
"Oh! Right." Nina quickly grabbed her bag and pulled out the contract. As she got dressed, Vincent read through the contract, seeing no hidden nonsense. He signed it as Nina touched up her makeup.
"Congratulations, sir." She said smoothly, recovering her professional tone. "You are now the owner of the property on Greenbaby, No. 147."
With his address now changed, he could finally move his money to an account in his new name instead of his old one. He did that on the drive back to the dealership, seeing as it only took a couple minutes to do so.
With his money moved, and his home acquired, he rode his bike back to City Hall to get an ID with his new address . He once again commended this world for how easy services like this was. No absurdly long lines, nor rude and uncooperative employees upset that they have to do their jobs.
With his IDs secured, he made his way to the car dealership to get himself a car or two.