(Thursday, June 13, 2026 – 3:17 PM)
I stepped out of the agency, the warm afternoon sun casting long shadows across the pavement. The bag slung over my shoulder felt heavier than it should, not from weight, but from the significance of what was inside. Official ownership documents.
I had land now.
Slipping my hand into the bag, I ensured the papers were neatly secured inside the inner compartment. The last thing I needed was carelessness ruining everything I'd just finalized.
With that done, I adjusted the strap and started walking toward the nearest bus stop.
The streets were still active, though not as packed as earlier. A mix of locals and tourists moved along the sidewalks, some stopping at cafés, others engaged in casual conversation. Cars weaved through traffic, their engines humming beneath the noise of the city.
I blended in, walking with the same measured pace I always did, never too fast, never too slow.
My next destination was clear.
A car dealership.
Public transport was fine untill now, but it had become redundant. I needed my own vehicle. Something reliable, efficient, and most importantly, untraceable once modified.
A bus pulled into the stop ahead. Timing was perfect.
I stepped onto the platform, waiting as a few passengers exited before boarding. With a quick tap of my card, I moved to the back, taking a window seat.
As the city rolled past outside, I rested my elbow against the frame, fingers tapping lightly against my knee.
(3:29 PM)
The bus slowed to a stop near an intersection. Across the street, a polished car dealership stood prominently, its large glass windows showcasing an array of vehicles.
I stepped off, adjusting my bag as I crossed at the designated pedestrian lane.
The entrance doors slid open as I walked in, cool air immediately brushing against my skin. Inside, the dealership was spacious, well-lit, with neatly arranged cars reflecting the ceiling lights.
A few employees were scattered throughout, engaged with customers or handling paperwork. It didn't take long for one to approach me, a man in his late thirties, clean-shaven, wearing a fitted blazer over a dress shirt.
"Buon pomeriggio, signore." His voice was smooth, professional. "Welcome. How can I assist you today?"
I met his gaze. "I'm looking to purchase a vehicle. Something durable, fuel-efficient, and with good longevity."
His expression remained polite but sharpened slightly, assessing me as a serious buyer. "Of course. Do you have a specific model or type in mind?"
"Something practical. SUVs, sedans, nothing flashy."
He gave a small nod. "I understand. Please, follow me."
I walked with him further into the showroom, past sleek sports cars and luxury models. None of those mattered. I needed function, not status, as that will come along with power.
Boundless power.
We stopped near a section featuring mid-range SUVs and sedans.
"These models are some of the most reliable in their category." he said, gesturing toward them. "Fuel efficiency, durability, and ease of maintenance are key features here."
I let my eyes run over the options, taking in details, engine specs, build quality, potential for modification.
One vehicle, in particular, caught my attention.
A black Toyota Land Cruiser.
Sturdy. Long-lasting. Plenty of space. Easily modifiable.
I turned slightly toward the salesman. "Tell me about this one."
He smiled, stepping beside me. "An excellent choice. The Land Cruiser is known for its longevity and off-road capability while maintaining solid on-road performance. It's an all-terrain vehicle, powerful yet stable. This particular model has advanced fuel efficiency upgrades as well."
I glanced at the listed price. Reasonable for what it offered.
"I'll take it." I said without hesitation.
The salesman blinked once but recovered quickly. "Would you like to discuss financing options or.."
"Full payment." I interrupted. "Right now."
For a fraction of a second, I saw his professional demeanor crack, just a flicker of surprise. But he nodded, regaining composure. "Understood. If you'll follow me, we can finalize the paperwork."
I followed him toward the back offices.
(3:41 PM)
The pen moved smoothly across the final document as I signed my name, sealing the transaction.
"Everything is in order." the salesman said, sliding a folder toward me. "Your proof of ownership, registration, and insurance details are all included here."
I took the folder, placing it securely inside my bag.
"Keys?"
He nodded, reaching into a drawer before handing them over. The cold metal felt solid in my palm, a physical representation of my next step toward independence.
"Your vehicle is parked just outside the exit." he continued. "It's been fully checked, and the tank is topped off. You're good to go."
I stood, offering a slight nod with a smile. "Appreciate the efficiency."
He gave a polite smile. "Enjoy your new car, signore."
With that, I turned and made my way toward the dealership's main exit.
(3:49 PM)
Stepping outside, my gaze landed on the black Toyota Land Cruiser parked near the curb. Its polished surface gleamed under the afternoon light, a contrast to the more urban vehicles surrounding it.
I walked over, unlocking the doors with a press of the key fob. The interior was clean, spacious, functional. No unnecessary luxury, just practical design built for both urban and off-road conditions.
Sliding into the driver's seat, I adjusted the position slightly before starting the engine. The deep, controlled hum of the motor filled the cabin.
This was mine now.
As I shifted into drive and pulled onto the main road, my phone vibrated.
Glancing at the screen, I saw Marie's name.
I tapped loudspeak, answering without taking my eyes off the road.
"Didn't expect a call from you." I said, merging into traffic.
Marie's voice came through smoothly, carrying her usual relaxed confidence. "Figured I'd let you know, I cleared a C-Rank gate with my squad today. Thought it called for a celebration."
A small smile formed on my lips. "Perfect timing. Just bought a car myself, so I was already in the mood to celebrate something."
"Really? What'd you get?"
"Land Cruiser."
A short pause. Then, a low whistle. "Damn, big spender. Got tired of public transport?"
"More like needed a personal asset. Something reliable."
"Practical as ever." She chuckled. "Anyway, I booked a spot at Trattoria Leone, figured 8 PM worked?"
"That's fine."
"Good. Don't be late, Adam."
The call ended.
I tapped my fingers lightly against the wheel with eyes focused ahead.
'Heh, this woman..'
Dinner at 8 PM.
For now, I had time to return home.
....
(4:12 PM)
The familiar streets of my neighborhood came into view as I navigated toward my apartment complex. I pulled into a vacant parking spot, cutting the engine before stepping out.
With my bag slung over my shoulder and keys in hand, I moved through the entrance, taking the stairs two at a time.
Unlocking the door, I stepped inside, shutting it behind me with a quiet click.
The apartment was exactly as I left it, minimalist, organized but small, too small.
Without a second thought, I headed straight to my bedroom.