"From Broke to Baller: Thanks, System?"

A soft drizzle pattered on the roof as Jin sat by the window, reviewing his daily checklist.

> "System Reminder: Weekly Reflection – 3 Strengths, 1 Weakness, 1 Goal."

Jin typed into his notebook:

Strengths: Focused, Calm, Disciplined

Weakness: Lacks knowledge in repair issues

Goal: Learn basic maintenance skills

Just as he closed the notebook, his phone buzzed.

Lena:

> "Hi Jin, sorry to bother… there's a small leak under the kitchen sink. Nothing major, but it's dripping."

He blinked. "Already?"

The place had seemed fine during cleaning — but this was part of it, right?

---

Instead of panicking or making excuses, Jin replied:

> "Thanks for telling me. I'll check it after class tomorrow, is that okay?"

She sent a thumbs-up.

He sighed. "Okay, system. I guess we're getting our hands dirty."

> "Side Mission: Maintenance Rookie – Fix the First Leak"

Reward: +3 Practicality, unlock 'DIY Mode' (Basic Repairs Encyclopedia)

---

The next afternoon, Jin biked to the unit after school. Tool kit in hand — borrowed from his dad.

He crouched under the sink. Yep, steady drip.

The system opened a glowing blue overlay:

> "Possible Causes: Loose connection or cracked pipe. Try Step 1…"

It wasn't easy — the cramped space, the rusty nuts, the faint smell of moisture. But Jin stayed focused.

Thirty minutes and one pinched finger later, he tightened the connection, wiped the area, and placed a bowl beneath — just in case.

> "Leak Resolved. +3 Practicality. +100 XP."

"DIY Mode Unlocked: You now gain insights into minor household repairs."

---

As Jin stood up, Lena smiled. "Thank you ha. Most landlords don't even show up."

He gave a simple nod, brushing dust from his shirt. "No problem po. Just message me if anything comes up."

She handed him an envelope.

> "First rent," she said. "On time, as promised."

3,000 pesos. His first passive income.

He didn't say much — just tucked it into his small black notebook and walked home in the fading sunlight, his old sneakers splashing through puddles.

---

Back in his room, Jin opened the system dashboard.

> Total Funds: 7,430 PHP

Passive Income Tracker: +3,000/month

Projected: 36,000/year from 1 property

It wasn't huge.

But to Jin, it was everything.

He quietly took out a coin jar labeled "Family Fund" and dropped in three bills.

Then he pulled out another envelope marked "Savings – No One Must Know."

That one? He'd keep growing… quietly.

End of Chapter 16