Takuma Gaiden II: Road to America (Pt. 2) - Page 31: LFA's Song

[Niku Driver HC]

I just love that custom plate on the Lambo. "Mad Cow" indeed, really cool. 👍

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 3 - Comparison




The heat begins... and what a car! This is my first time ever to witness a KTM X-Bow's performance!

Damn... understeer! I entered way too fast! Lightweight track day cars such as the X-Bow are being favored by these types of corners.

No wonder that little shrimp Takanori has so much fondness for his Mazda Roadster.

Owen: "Eh??? Something wrong with Takuma-san?"

It's no joke controlling this Diablo, you know? Better outrun me while you can!

Owen: "Time to head back home and deposit the groceries, then. I guess Takuma-san will head the other way."

Oh well, no use chasing him after. Those brief moments are proof enough. I am imagining how much faster Rob's X-Bow is, if I were to race against it.

************************************************************​

Location: Latte Night coffee shop, London
Time: 7 pm



Owen immediately heads to London after depositing his groceries in his home. He's eager to check out his friends and former colleagues.

Alma: "Wait... your new car has no roof and windshield? It's cold out, you know?!?"


Owen: "That's the consequence I have to face, but I race that car too."



Alma: "Sigh... I wish you just stayed here instead..."



But their conversation is cut short by a surprise visit of Craig.

Alma: "He's here. He's been doing rounds more often lately."


Craig, dressed in a blazer and slacks, arrives inside. But he raises his hand upon passing the counter.


Craig: "No need to make a cup of coffee for me. I'll be here briefly. Oh, I remember you... you used to work here, am I right?"


Owen: "Yes sir."



Craig: "The manager and your boss here simply couldn't afford to let you go back then. But of course one must grab big opportunities, right? You deserve a better life, anyway."



Owen: "I am slowly absorbed by the life of racing."



Craig: "Then that's good. We men love fast cars, right?"



Owen receives a pat from Craig. The young man could only look at his former employer.



Craig: "Good luck then. I wish I was in a racing team too, but I have too many things to focus about, starting that legend in Essex..."


Owen: "Essex? Sir... I saw you race the other day."


Craig: "Really? Then I am sure you are aware of the so-called "Essex Hero". You might be wondering why I'm wasting my time on that. Let's just say that racing is my way of letting off steam from a hard day's work. That Essex Hero is providing me the push to do so."


Owen: "Essex Hero..."


Craig: "If my memory serves me right, you live in Essex. I assume you are aware of this legendary racer."


Owen: "I've heard of it just now, sir. You know, I'm quite surprised that there are street races in Essex recently."


Craig: "That's because that legend started to stir once again. It's back. That is why I'm chasing it, as my means of pleasure. I shall encounter it someday...


Oh well, seeing that this shop is doing fine, I shall set off. Farewell. It was nice seeing you again, Owen."



Craig departs from the shop in a happy mood.



Alma: "Huh... he races that Lamborghini to let out stress. And he's chasing after that legend. Oh, I don't know what men do... as if I understand what both of you are doing."



Owen: "Could be just a legend, anyway. Since I live in Essex, I might as well see it someday."



Alma: "What are you going to do if it's true?"


Owen: "That... I don't know."

************************************************************


​

Location: Owen's home, Essex
Time: 10 pm



Owen has arrived home, and upon unloading from his car, he zips up his jacket more, as the cold wind starts to brew.


He reaches for the keys of his house from his pocket, but just as before he can twist them on the doorknob...




Edward: "Entering? Or leaving?"



Owen recognizes the voice, and turns back to look at Edward, the husband of Elizabeth Cambridge. He also funded the construction of the orphanage. He is just standing across the street.



Owen: "Mr. Edward. It's quite late. I am about to get inside. Won't you come in too?"


Edward: "It's just a brief reminder. Right now, you are nothing. You are not as close as he was."



Owen: "What are you talking about?"



Edward: "You live here and yet you're not aware of the legend? How pathetic. You call yourself a racer?"


Owen: "I only race in the tracks, so how am I going to be aware?"



Edward: "The Essex Hero. Right now... you still have a long way to go. You don't have what it takes to match the legend named Brandon Hatch. He is The Essex Hero dubbed by the locals.


I hope that's enough information for you. Have a nice sleep, squire. Young lads like you need it."



The old man just walks away, not minding the cold at all. Owen finally enters the home and locks the door shut.



Owen: "The Essex Hero..."





End of Page 3

 

[Niku Driver HC]

The KTM is not for sure, Takuma-san. You should know that by now, no? After all, you've seen what Mr. Rob can do with his own...

Also, Owen is stepping into one dangerous challenge, I wonder how will cope with it.

 

[silverman_GT]

Moooooooo!

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 4 - Destiny's Tease




Location: Cambridge home, Essex
Time: 12 pm, the next day



In a cozy home just behind the orphanage, the Cambridge couple live there even before the orphanage was built. It's just half the size of the orphanage, since the couple gave up on having a second shot of having a child after their first one died.

Cooking lunch in the kitchen is Elizabeth, and after that she serves the meal on the table. But the table only has one plate, as she will head back to watch over the children. She then catches a glimpse of her husband, Edward, coming towards the kitchen to have his fill.


Edward: "Heading back to the orphanage?"


Elizabeth: "Yes."


Edward: "Okay then. See you at dinner."


Elizabeth: "Where are you going?"


Edward: "To test that car once again."


Hearing that, Elizabeth turns back and sits down with her husband for confrontation.


Elizabeth: "What do you want to do with Owen now? I thought you have no interest."


Edward: "He's a race car driver in some bimbo team, and yet he isn't aware of his origins. He is merely following orders and does what he has to do."


Elizabeth: "You cannot reveal the truth to him! You must know that..."


Edward: "Brandon is a coward? Why did he leave his b*st**d then? If he's showing a bit of love to his child, then he must raise it! Even if he's illegitimate!"


Elizabeth: "Because he told me that Owen does not deserve a broken father! He didn't tell me why he's broken, but still I respect his wish."


Edward: "Fair point. But Owen is clearly having the genes of his father, right down to his baldness. I intend to actually improve his racing skills. Just leave this to me. I know what I'm doing."


Elizabeth: "If he finds out the truth, then he'll be devastated!"



Edward: "Relax. I said, I know what I'm doing. I am merely helping him out in secret. Using his father's old car will help him improve."


Elizabeth: "In what way, then?"


Edward: "Chasing it. He's ought to do that."

************************************************************


​

Having nothing else to do, Edward now leaves to try out Brandon's restored Jaguar XJ220. Firming his grip on the steering wheel, he accelerates further.

Edward: "Rob... and Dennis... those two may have been as accomplished as Brandon with their own set of skills, but they clearly are not aware what their half sibling can do. In fact..."

Edward: "...Owen is the only one who can match Brandon's skill. It's just that, it has yet to be tapped. His stay in that racing team restricts that potential."

Edward: "But I do like the idea of Owen running in Essex's B roads. That shall be a good start. Then I shall be the one to stir.


Brandon Hatch, you must watch... as I turn your son into a monster that you were."

************************************************************

​

Meanwhile...




Owen is having a stroll, coming from a souvenir shop. Once again, the cold wind blows by, prompting Owen to zip up his jacket.




Then he notices Takuma's Diablo stopped in front of an old house.

Takuma: "Hmmmm..... this is the right address."


Owen: "Takuma-san!"


Takuma: "Oh, it's you, Owen. What brings you here?"


Owen: "Just saw you."


Takuma: "This house will soon be demolished. It's a court order, apparently."


Owen: "Who owns it?"


Takuma: "The land was owned by Sir Ben, which of course I own now. Since the owner of the house is dead, and with its outstanding dues hanging, I might as well tear it down."


The two get inside to inspect.


Owen: "Sure is rusty here. But I can definitely imagine how this would look like if the owner was still alive."

Takuma stumbles upon a broken trophy, he is surprised at the inscription.


Takuma: "Look! Brandon Hatch..."


Owen: "Hatch? Could he be..."


Takuma: "Rob and Dennis' father? Yes. Rob mentioned that name once. But he didn't make mention of this place at all."


Owen: "But have you consulted Rob about tearing this house down?"


Takuma: "Not yet. But I will tell him after this. He must know this first. The demolition might not proceed afterwards."


Takuma looks at the framed photos of Brandon in his youth.



Takuma: "Strangely, you have the splitting image of Brandon. Though of course, he had some hair in these photos."


Owen: "Really?"


Takuma: "Hey, there are chances that two people look the same even though they aren't related. Look at Rob, he looks like Jason Statham, right down to his physique. Albeit Rob looks younger..."


Owen: "This man may have accomplished so much in life. But this house tells otherwise."


Takuma: "Probably because he went into depression?"



Owen: "You know, I can tell a person's life just in the house they live in. In this state, when things are at a mess, it clearly shows madness or depression. Sure, the things here have rusted because of age, but the mess was clearly done by him."



The two men then head upstairs, they only see one bedroom and a bathroom.


Takuma: "Clearly Brandon was the only person living here..."


Owen: "It shows."


Owen enters the bedroom. He sees an opened notebook, and briefly turns its pages. He sees most pages have writings smudged, as it turns out that there is a hole at the roof, indicating that the notebook might have been left open by the wind and rain smeared the ink.


However, the wind once again blows, and a page was flown off the window.



Owen: "Shoot..."


Takuma: "Let's go, Owen. I'll tell Rob about this first before the demolition takes place."



The two men leave the abandoned house. Meanwhile, the page that flew has managed to hang itself on a branch of the tree just beside that house. However, the notes were clear, and appears to be the only one intact...

"I made a mistake.... to cover up a mistake. And that resulted to another mistake. I named that child Owen... and this time around, I won't allow another mistake to happen. I'll leave him in an orphanage. I cannot allow him to live in a life full of sadness and mistakes. He deserves to live a right life, with no mistakes at all. With that, I finally have done something right."​

Once again, the truth has slipped past Owen...




End of Page 4

 

[AudiMan2011]

When the truth hits Owen, it'll hit him as hard as it'll hit Rob and Dennis.

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 5 - Foresight


Location: Owen's home
Time: 3 pm, two days later



Stirring the coffee cup, Owen aims to wake himself up a bit. He is at the kitchen, gazing at the cloudy weather. Then he sees Takuma's Diablo arriving. He interrupts his drink and stands up to receive his guest.


Upon opening the door, not only Takuma is the visitor, but also Rob.



Owen: "Good afternoon. Please come in."


His guests enter, and Rob just looks around the house.


Owen: "Takuma-san, I thought you'll be heading back to Japan."



Takuma: "Looks like I'll be extending my stay here. I just got contacted by Hiroyuki-san. We are to participate in a race in Brands Hatch this weekend. It's another FIA Road Car race. So prep your KTM."


Rob: "Thought we could stop by here and inform you."


Takuma: "Aren't we supposed to check your father's old home?"



Rob: "Right."



Then the three take a walk, since the abandoned house is just a block away. Upon arriving, Takuma unlocks the front door.



Rob: "My father never told me about this place, even after he divorced my mother."



Takuma: "He never brought you here, huh?"



Rob: "Perhaps this is the only solace he had, probably because I was still too young to understand what was going on between my parents."



Then a white butterfly perched on Owen's shoulder. But the young man didn't notice, and so he went along with the two upstairs.



Owen notices another door, signifying another room in the second floor, he opens it. Inside, it's filled with cobwebs and dust.


He notices a framed news article on the wall...



Owen: "The Essex Hero... strikes again. Police cars crashed along with some racers."


Rob: "Owen? Oh there you are. What's that thing you're reading? Essex Hero? My father was the Essex Hero, huh? He also never told me about this. Everything in here is just unknown to me."



Takuma: "Essex Hero? Hmmmm.... I have stumbled across an automotive forum discussing that lately."



Rob: "So my father was a notorious street racer back then, while being a professional racer for most."


Takuma: "However that article mentioned that it's back."



Rob: "Back? Perhaps it's a different car. It would be quite creepy if it is the same car he used."



Takuma: "That doesn't make sense to me either. Let's go down, guys."





Owen: "The Essex Hero... so Brandon Hatch was the Essex Hero, huh? You know, Mr. Edward mentioned that to me too, and he even made me a subject of comparison."



Takuma: "Owen, you've got a butterfly on your shoulder."



Owen: "Huh? Oh... looks adorable. And it's looking at me, straight to my eyes."




Rob: "Say, what if I buy this and refurbish it? Plus, the location is quite relaxing, even if it's nearby the city center."



Takuma: "No problem, I can nullify the court order if you wish. I was actually waiting for someone to take care of this at all. At least a family member now buys this."




Rob: "I'll buy this for 300,000 quid."



Takuma: "You're paying too much for this..."



Rob: "Just take the offer. This is my only way of cherishing my father."




The butterfly then flies away. Owen looks at it fluttering, until a bright light from the sun conceals it.



Takuma: "All is good, then. Now we have to help Owen for the race. Let's head back."


Takuma then locks the door, and gives the key to Rob. The three carry on walking, but Owen stops for a brief moment and looks back at the abandoned house. A wind slightly blows by.



Owen: "There's something in this place... I felt something in it. What was that "something"? Why am I feeling this?"



Takuma: "Owen? Owen!"


Owen: "Oh sorry."


Owen catches up with the two, and they all head back to his home.

************************************************************


​

Meanwhile, Craig has returned in Essex, still seeking for the legend.

Craig: "I've got to hunt it down before I run out of time... A businessman clearly has no time for this."



And, as fate intended, his prized opponent finally shows up.



Craig: "According to the locals, it's a Carnival Red Metallic Jaguar XJ220, with a license plate XJ22 JAG. There's no mistaking it. Finally."

Craig hits the accelerator. However, Edward, seeing someone is challenging him, preps up the Jag as well. The race has started...



Edward: "Ah, another adversary. Seems that I truly stirred up trouble."

However, Craig is being reminded by the Jaguar that it's no slouch either.



Craig: "20 years and still is a very fast car. But... how could it go head-to-head with something against a modern supercar like mine?"

Edward: "Interesting, but even Brandon would despise modern touches in a car! Performance cars get heavier as time passes!"

Craig: "I'm still on you. You think I'll hold back?"



However, Craig went in too fast in the next corner, resulting in a massive understeer for the Reventon. He reflexively hits the brake pedal.



Craig: "Damn!"

Edward: "Heh... just another fool taking a shot of the title."

Edward takes a break, and decides to puff a smoke out of the car. But he notices his opponent arriving. Then the Reventon parks beside the XJ220. Supercars from contrasting eras have gathered attention from some of the locals.

Craig: "I take it that you're the Essex Hero."



Edward: "Heh... far from it."



Craig: "But what you're owning is the Essex Hero, right? Unless its original driver sold it to you."



Edward: "Its previous owner died, and I have seen it catching rust. So I just have to restore this beauty."




Craig: "As a result, you stirred up quite a trouble in this otherwise quiet town."



Edward: "You are among the ones that are cracked up. I was just enjoying this car. Besides, someone out there is ought to succeed the legend."



Craig: "And that's you?"



Edward: "I told you, I am far from it. But my role is to plant that seed in to him, and make it grow."



Craig: "Who is that person?"



Edward: "Why would I sell him out to you? He's even far faster than you are, at his current state. I am just eager to see the legend back. This place has gotten too quiet. To give you an idea, he is in the world of motorsports, much like his predecessor was."



Craig: "No matter what kind of concealing tricks you'll do, I'll always come up and hunt that person down."



Edward: "With you and your car? I doubt it. No question that your car is fast, but you. It's you that's the problem. You look like a very successful man from an entirely different walk of life."



Craig: "Are you undermining me?"



Edward: "Yes. You don't look the part, even if you have the money. Successful businessman like you should just look after at the things they know best. You'd be better off opening stores around the world rather than wasting your time chasing down on something you cannot match."



Craig: "I admit, I am a businessman, and one would question why am I engaging in things like this. It's just that I want to escape a bit from reality."



Edward: "But then reality sucks one back to its rightful place. Racing is more than just a stress reliever. You cannot achieve anything with what you're fooling about right now.


However, I will give you the liberty of proving me wrong. If you are able to beat it, then maybe I'll change my views on life."


Craig: "So where is that person in question? At least give me an idea what he's driving."



Edward: "Something his predecessor loved to drive - a lightweight track day car."



Craig: "Can't you be a little bit more specific?"



Edward: "That car frequents here, even its license plate is a giveaway, as he's a local of Essex. That's enough clues I'll hand out. I wish you Godspeed.


That person is soon to be among the fastest racers in the whole of United Kingdom. Mark my words."





End of Page 5

 

[AudiMan2011]

The legendary XJ220 still has it.

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 6 - Bounded By Destiny


Location: Brands Hatch, Kent, England
Time: 5 pm, two days later



Looks like I'll be staying in Britain for long. And good thing is that I only purchased a one-way ticket. I informed my wife about this, and she is to inform my boss at work.


With that, Rob and I have to help Owen prepare for the race.... which will happen in a moment.



Takuma: "You can bag this easily."


Owen: "Probably."


Rob: "Stop being humble for once - the essence of a badass. It will bring you to victory..."



Takuma: "So, shall we start, then? Our opponents have set off for the rolling start."



Rob pats Owen's shoulder.



Rob: "Have fun."

As expected, Owen is performing well, especially how that KTM runs. I saw it run before my eyes, so there is no reason for me to expect less.

The problem of owning such car is its overall usability. I can imagine Owen shivering in cold whenever he drives that car. That's the price you pay for ultimate performance. Even summers in Britain aren't that hot compared in mainland Europe, but I guess that's the only time he can enjoy it in an open road. I can tell, thanks to the majority of my youth being spent here.

But weather is definitely not an excuse to mess up! Surprisingly though, it's a sunny Sunday today.

Okay... today's session is uneventful. We snagged another win for the team. But seeing road cars race in a track is more interesting than, let's say, a Formula 1 race. It tests a driver's knowledge and skill in driving a car that is pretty much usable everyday, and lacking the features of a full-blown race machine.




While the rest have packed up, save for Owen since he went to the washroom. He lets the two to leave, since he is to take his car home anyway.


He once again encounters Edward, who is coming from the other way.



Edward: "No mistake at all... you definitely succeed him."


Owen: "Mr. Edward."



Edward: "The way you handled your opponents is the same approach he used when he was active in racing. Preferring lightweight cars to take down performance heavyweights, showing no mercy at all. You definitely show promise to the team you're belonging to.

But that isn't enough... you have yet to embrace something."



Owen: "Embrace... something?"



Edward: "I'll leave to let you find out about that. It is much better if you discover it on your own."

************************************************************

​

Location: Essex
Time: 12 pm, the next day



First day of the week... and Rob decided that we should clean out his father's old home first before any refurbishing. He even skipped work for this... sigh...



Owen also offers to lend a hand. Great, more people, means better efficiency.


Rob and I take care of the ground floor, while Owen cleans out the second floor. We have to take out everything... I mean everything. Though of course Rob plans to spare some memento here and there.



Owen then brings down a container filled with old stuff, and places it outside. Good work.



Owen: "This will be tough..."


Then Owen scrounges the container, out of curiosity. Then he sees a set of baby clothes, with a sleepwear with "Owen" on it. It is one of those clothes that have names on it that can be seen in department stores. At first, he is bewildered, until....



...the note hanging on the branch for days finally fell and landed on his head. Destiny has its way of reaching out.

Owen takes the paper, and reads the content:

"I made a mistake.... to cover up a mistake. And that resulted to another mistake. I named that child Owen... and this time around, I won't allow another mistake to happen. I'll leave him in an orphanage. I cannot allow him to live in a life full of sadness and mistakes. He deserves to live a right life, with no mistakes at all. With that, I finally have done something right."


​

The revelation further lands Owen into a state of doubt, until he remembers Edward's cryptic remarks.

Edward: "It's just a brief reminder. Right now, you are nothing. You are not as close as he was."


"The way you handled your opponents is the same approach he used when he was active in racing. Preferring lightweight cars to take down performance heavyweights, showing no mercy at all. You definitely show promise to the team you're belonging to.

But that isn't enough... you have yet to embrace something."


​

Then Takuma's comparison....

Takuma: "Strangely, you have the splitting image of Brandon. Though of course, he had some hair in these photos."



​

And then finally, Elizabeth's fabricated story to him when he was still spending his youth at the orphanage.

"I just.... saw you on the front porch on a rainy night. Someone left you. I don't know who he was, but I have to take you in."


​

Owen crumples the paper, and soon after.... tears come rushing down from his eyes. The truth has finally come to light, and that... will be very difficult for Owen.



Rob heads out to place a container as well, but he sees Owen...



Rob: "Owen... what's wrong?"


Owen: "LEAVE ME ALONE!"


He stands up and runs away, dropping the note and the baby clothes.



Rob: "Owen? OWEN!!!"



Takuma: "What's wrong?"



Oh no... I don't know what happened, but Owen just stormed out. He left with the car, zooming to an unknown place.


And then Rob picked up a note and some clothing, he reads the former, and then he just showed an expression of shock from his face.



Rob: "Owen... I.. I have to catch him!"




Takuma: "What the hell is going on?!?"

************************************************************

​

Location: Cambridge home



Elizabeth is busy cooking porridge, which shall be served as a snack for the children in the orphanage later on.


She hears someone knocking on the door, and the rather loud banging noise prompts her to worry while she reaches for the door. Upon opening it, she sees Owen in tears.



Elizabeth: "Owen! What's wrong?"


Owen: "Why? Why did you lie to me?"


Elizabeth: "What are you talking about?"


Owen: "You didn't tell me my father was Brandon Hatch! He was the one who deposited me on that rainy night!"



Elizabeth: "It's just... he just doesn't want you to know! I am just doing his favor!"



Suddenly, Edward descends the stairs, to interrupt.



Edward: "See? What have I told you? No matter how much we hide it from him, the truth will find its way out."



Elizabeth: "You told him, didn't you?!?"



Edward: "I was merely following your request. I have nothing to do with this."



Owen, further devastated, storms out once again, banging the door in anger.




Elizabeth: "What are we going to do now?!?"




Edward: "Let him discover himself. I say, let him find out who he really is. He cannot escape the fact that he has his father's blood running within him."

************************************************************


​

Owen drives further north, just to escape for a while. The truth has revealed to Owen, and it hit him really hard. All his life, he yearned for his true parents, typical for any orphan, but now... he is all alone, and there are still many questions left to be answered.



Owen: "No wonder.... I felt something when I first visited that house. It was that something! The truth! And then, Mr. Edward's comparisons! They all make sense now! I am Brandon Hatch's son... an illegitimate child..."



However, a challenger appears from behind, his former employer...



Craig: "EX15 KTM... the first two letters in a British license plate usually indicate where it's registered. And that, along with that old man's claims... could this be the new Essex Hero he mentioned?"

Owen notices the challenger from behind, and recognized it as his old boss.



Owen: "Mr. Williams? Is he intending to race me?"


The Reventon overtakes, and to Craig's shock, he recognizes his former employee.


Craig: "That's Owen! He's the successor?"



Owen firms his grip on the steering wheel, and shifts down to second gear.

Owen: "All right, I want to see..."

Owen: "....how much of a Brandon Hatch I am!"





End of Page 6

​

 

[Niku Driver HC]

Oh snap, Owen just got nailed with the drama bomb! Time for the final battle between Owen and his former boss...

 

[RCKakashi14]

It's not yet the final battle. There are still two left.

 

[Niku Driver HC]

It's not yet the final battle. There are still two left.

Oh yeah, got ahead of myself there. Better word that correctly, the battle between Owen and his ex-boss...

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 7 - My Father's Blood




A troubled and enraged Owen takes on his former employer, Craig. But emotions must not get in the way...

Owen: "Does my father's blood truly run within me? Could that explain why is there a need to satisfy my crave for speed?"




As expected, Owen keeps up through the turns and even has better corner exit acceleration.

Craig: "No doubt about it now... Owen is now a professional racer, and he drives a lightweight track day car - matching the old man's description. The world is truly filled with talented people, and there are those who you do not expect from them at all!"




Owen is obviously aware of his KTM's power deficit in the straights. But his rage still allows him to keep his right foot planted on the pedal.

Craig: "You cannot change the fact that cars like the KTM X-Bow has their weaknesses. Their modest power will not make them fare well in a large circuit!"




However, Craig's moment of advantage is short-lived, as Owen has immediately stuck behind him after the two turns.

Craig: "Back already?!? He was just far away from me moments ago!"

Owen: "When I'm in heat... I'll just pound and pound you until you succumb! I don't feel like losing to anyone, even if you're my boss!"



At the next turn, the Reventon understeers, prompting Craig to slow down by releasing the accelerator. This gives Owen a big chance for a pass...

...which he didn't hesitate to do.

Craig: "No! All that weight-saving I've done in this car went for nothing?!?"



Owen could not react further, as he's still devastated. He just carries on driving, just to shake off all his anger as much as he can.

Craig: "Dammit... every desperate move just makes things worse!"

The KTM's rapid acceleration out of turns helps it even the odds as well. One of the greatest advantages of being lightweight is how it manages to get out of twists and curves, and with today's turbocharging technology, the 2 liter engine that powers most Audis is heralded as one of the most responsive engines in its class - allowing the X-Bow to cover up all the power disadvantage by squirting out of the turns much faster than supercars twice or even thrice the price.

The result leaves Craig astounded....

Craig: "Owen... disappeared. Just like that. Like magic."

Once again, Owen reduced himself into tears, while a tiny glimmer of light from the sun suddenly shines upon him, as if his father is understanding what Owen is going through right now...

Truly a tough time for Owen... They always say that no one can't handle the truth.

************************************************************


​

Meanwhile, Rob and Takuma just run around the neighborhood in search for Owen. The former is now catching for air, and just sits down on the sidewalk.



Rob: "Hah... hah.... I just can't believe this, either."


Takuma: "What's going on? You didn't even tell me a thing while we're running!"


Rob: "Where can I start? My mind is in a mess, and so does Owen's."


Takuma: "I'm sure Owen will come back. He has to go home in one way or another. Let's wait for him there instead."



Rob: "All along... one of our teammates is actually my little half-brother. I am such a slob for not realizing that sooner."


Takuma: "They say fate is cruel. And this is one of its manifestations."



Rob: "I don't know what to do right now. It's hard to explain to him what happened in my family. Having read that paper, it is safe to assume that it is related."


Rob takes that paper out from the pocket, and Takuma reads that short revelation.



Takuma: "Oh I see.... but I could understand what your father did. My father was in that situation too, and I had a half-brother that I only got to know for a short period until his tragic death. You know, it's time for you to accept Owen, and maybe then this mess will be truly over."



Rob: "But of course, I have to explain everything. That includes my parents' quarrel."



Takuma: "He deserves to know everything, and that might be related to the circumstances surrounding his birth."




Then the two men stand up and walk their way back to Owen's home...




End of Page 7

 

[AudiMan2011]

The truth hurts...

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 8 - Warm Welcome



Meanwhile, Edward sets off once again, after that sudden turn of events. However, he puts up a grin on his face, seemingly satisfied with what's going on, despite the fact that he didn't reveal the truth at all.

Edward: "Perfect. It seems that Lady Luck is at my side today. My plans will proceed as expected."

Edward: "Now time to move on the final phase... which is to race Owen. I have finally "resurrected" the legend, and with that, I shall be able to defeat him. Owen takes over your place, Brandon... but not for long. I shall claim the title soon enough!"


Edward carries on driving, as his plans will now be set in motion...

************************************************************

​

After cooling down for a bit thanks to that short drive, Owen heads back home. He didn't mind Rob and Takuma following him inside.



Rob: "Owen.... let me explain. Come with me for a drive."



The two leave while Takuma is on his way back to London.

Rob: "No child wants to be involved in a parents' quarrel. No one does. You're merely a victim of circumstance, just like me and Dennis."


Owen: "But why did he leave me?"

Rob: "Our father started to doubt my mother a few years after I was born, and their quarrels have gotten more intense back then. Eventually, our father had proven it, as he caught my mother seeing another man, and then, reading that diary entry you saw, perhaps he could have done it out of spite or revenge. But rest assured, our father was the best dad ever lived. He wouldn't want to see his children cry, even Dennis. I'm sure, he didn't want you to be involved and he thought that you'll live a much better life without him."

Rob: "Forgive me, for not having realized it sooner. You're kind, gentle, but at the same time proud and dedicated much like our father was. You really are our father's son. But you know what? I'm really happy. Because...


...I feel that our family is getting together. It doesn't matter if you're an illegitimate son. Love conquers everything."



Rob pulls over, and the two get out to enjoy the view of the hills.



Rob: "Remember what I said before? Our team is a family, and the moment I said that, that special feeling manifested. I really felt that I am having a little brother in the team, which is you."



Owen: "You too... I saw you like a big brother. You are a role model. I'm also happy... that I finally meet my family."


Rob gives Owen a brotherly hug.



Rob: "Welcome to the family, Owen."


After Owen wipes away his tears again, he looks at his half big brother with a smile.



Rob: "There... don't cry again, okay? Our father doesn't want seeing you cry. He taught me how to comfort someone who is weeping, something he does really well."



Owen: "So... what's next?"



Rob: "I'll make your life better, starting today. Let's fix our father's old house, shall we? We don't want to leave a mess, do we?"




Owen: "Right."



The two get back in the car and head back.



Owen: "Hey, tell me more about our father. Haven't you mentioned before that you spent most of your life with him? How was he?"



Rob: "I believe that my story will not end the moment we reach your home. But I'll tell you everything, as long as you're with me."




End of Page 8



AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- Short page, but an important plot piece. As per the group PM, I do need two volunteers. I am available tonight, from 8 to 11 pm GMT+8.

 

[AudiMan2011]

A touching moment. 👍

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 9 - True Colors



Location: Owen's home, Essex
Time: 10 am, the next day


After having coming to terms with the truth, Owen has finally found a new form of happiness - the happiness of finally belonging in a family. It doesn't matter if he's born out of wedlock, as Rob as fully accepted him as a sibling.


He now checks if the buckets of paint are complete. The repainting of the old house shall start today.


He hears a doorbell, and it's Rob.


Rob: "Let me help you with those. Repainting is top priority."


Since it's just nearby, the two didn't mind the weight of the full paint buckets.



Takuma is inside the old home, taking out pieces of old furniture.



Takuma: "Let's start, shall we?"


Owen: "Yes."



Of course, Takuma enlisted the help of painters. They are tasked to repaint the exterior, while the three will paint the interior, also with some help from the painters.



It took them the entire day... and of course not everything is repainted. Takuma decides to call it a day, and the painters are dismissed and will return tomorrow.

The three just sit down on the steps leading to the front door, all drinking cans of beer.



Owen: "What if our father is still alive? Would he like this house?"


Rob: "Father always makes sure that our house must be in order. He'll repaint the entire wall even if he sees one tiny part of paint chipped away.


So he would be very happy with our efforts today."




Owen: "At least we have done something very meaningful today."



Rob: "Care to come with me this Saturday? I'll let you drive something."



Owen: "Really? Oh sure!"



Rob: "Never really seen you that joyful before. That's what truth does to you. It hurts at the beginning, but will set you free and will have a totally different outlook in life."



Owen: "That's true. Back then, I felt all along that I lack something, and only a slight bit of happiness come to me at the happiest of times. I could only smile at the customers coming in the shop, but not a totally genuine one whenever I feel happy.


Now that I know everything, it seems that I can finally smile, along with the fact that you didn't shut me out at all, being an illegitimate child and all."



Takuma: "Hey... a family is a family. Illegitimate child or not, you deserve to be a part of it. No matter that kind of circumstance you had, it should not hamper your happiness."

************************************************************

​

Location: Silverstone Circuit
Time: 3 pm, Saturday



So... what is Owen driving that Rob promised? Here it is, sliding past the competition.

Owen: "Hey, this is great!"

Owen: "It's very nimble and agile! No wonder I inherit his preference for anything that goes fast."

Rob: "Our father would use this to rocket all the way to stardom. All supercars in its day were crying in its wake."

Owen: "It shows. Very quick even today."

Owen drives on, lap after lap, filled with joy as he pilots the car that was once a pride and joy of his late father.

************************************************************


​

Location: Owen's home, Essex
Time: 11 am, the next day



After attending a Sunday mass from a church just a walk away, Owen heads back to his home and prepares ingredients for his lunch.


While taking out food from the refrigerator, he hears a doorbell ring. He reaches for the door and it's Edward paying a visit.


Owen: "Mr. Edward?"


Edward: "Such a lovely day today, isn't it? But how were you coping up, now that the truth has finally come out?"



Owen: "I've come to terms with it. As a matter of fact, I am now part of the Hatch family."



Edward: "Lucky you. Illegitimate children aren't really the luckiest people around when it comes to family matters. You know now how troubled Brandon was."



Owen: "I am aware. And life has gotten better for me now."


Edward: "You sure? But there's still one problem left... and that's you."


Owen: "What are you talking about? Start making sense now... old man."



Having had enough of Edward's harshness and teases especially in his days as a child, Owen now roughens himself up.



Edward: "Talking brave now, huh? Just because you're part of the family now? All right, I will start making sense.


Everything that happened works in favor of me. All along, my desire is to finally defeat your father, and claim the title as The Essex Hero - the name everyone covets. The name that I desired all along. A hero never gives up after having fell countless times... the same thing that I experienced.


All those cryptic messages I've said, are to awaken the true you, and in that way, it's similar to racing against your father. After all, you are like a reincarnation of your father.


And with that plan succeeded, it's now time for us to have a duel. To add a little insult, I currently drive the car that was once belonged to your father, the one that catapulted him to that status. With that, I shall prevail, I shall finally beat the villains in my conquest... you and your father."



Hearing that, Owen clenches his fist on the table. He never had experienced this upsetting feeling before, and definitely... definitely he will never allow himself to lose.




Owen: "Bring it then, old man. Let's just see who is the real hero here."



End of Page 9

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 10 - British Legendary Supercar





Location: Owen's home
Time: 6 pm, the next day



While still being idle, waiting for another official FIA race, Owen is just doing one of the things a bum does - watching television.


Though he is serious, having being challenged to a race by Edward using his late father's car. To him, it's an insult...



But before he can think further, Rob is ringing the doorbell outside, prompting Owen to open the door.



Owen: "Brother?"


Rob: "Just heard the news. You accepted a challenge from The Essex Hero..."


Owen: "He's not the Essex Hero at all."


Rob: "What are you on about?"



Owen: "Our father was once The Essex Hero. Now, Edward is using our father's car to take that title away, by beating me. He sees me as a reincarnation of him. He planned this all along."



Rob: "Father never told me about this."


Owen: "Anyway, I'm going to beat Edward down. I cannot just let him tarnish our father's reputation, especially using that car. It's insulting. That's how far he'll go for the rivalry."



Rob: "So I have nothing to do but watch, then? All right. I believe in your skills, so I believe you can prevail."



Owen: "This is the first time I felt that I'm on fire. I never felt this before. This surging pride... of not allowing myself to lose."



Rob: "All of us are bound to feel that, one way or another. When pride is on the line, you'll give everything you got."

************************************************************


​

The next day, Edward has managed to contact Owen, and decides that the rivalry has to be settled.


Rob, who is watching over the old house's restoration, hears the news and decides to watch.



While preparing for the race, Owen puts on his leather racing gloves. He also straightens up his leather jacket.


Then a second later, Edward's XJ220 arrives. The mere sight of the arriving car surprises Rob.



Rob: "Our father owned that? He totally didn't tell me about everything that happened here."



Edward gets out of the car, and takes off his sunglasses.



Edward: "I appreciate your presence here, Owen. You do take this seriously after all."



Owen: "Let's get this over with. Let us see who is the real hero around here."





The two racers enter their cars. Without even a countdown, the two cars set off.

Rob: "Father may have loved telling stories to me, but I never heard of him being a feared racer here in Essex."

Rob: "But anyway... that Jaguar is still quick, even by today's standards. First time for me ever seeing it in the flesh. It had a crash course with the Ferrari F40..."




Now, in the race, Edward just puts up a smile, knowing that he did well in provoking Owen.



Edward: "Time for me take what is truly mine, Brandon. Using this car will guarantee me swift victory! How does it feel? Using the one car that you once treasured most... against you?"

Owen: "The XJ220 is truly a brilliant masterpiece, even today. I hold no doubt on that car for sure!"

However, its true capabilities are now being demonstrated. The XJ220 is truly a Group C racing car for the road.

Owen: "It's quick!"



Edward: "Now.... everything is put into motion. Everything is in my grasp. What can your child do now, Brandon?"

However, the KTM X-Bow has a design that is derived from racing car technology, either. It makes up for its power disadvantage.

Edward: "Looks like Brandon has come alive once again. Heh... bring it! I don't want boredom, either!"

Owen: "Out of my way, old man..."

Edward: "Let's settle this, Brandon! Your idea of simplicity irritates me! How can a lightweight car be the ultimate choice?"



Owen: "I had enough of your shenanigans from the past. I'll make you regret every single day you humiliated me in my childhood."





End of Page 10

 

[MrUnknown]

That last sentence...

 

[Harsk100]

Owen is going to win, I guess...

 

[KazaMR2]

'Intensiveness intensifies'

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 11 - Hatch Pride





While waiting for the news on the race's result, Rob takes a pack of cigarettes and smokes one of the sticks. He puffs out smoke rings from his mouth.


He then feels his phone vibrating in his pocket, which prompts him to pick it up. Turns out that someone named Ron Dennis is calling him. Now, what would McLaren Technology Group's CEO have to do with Rob?



Rob: "Oh Mr. Ron Dennis.... what a surprise. Why call me at this hour?"


Ron: "You have any results from your own "testing" of this project?"


Rob: "I have. But just give me a little more time. I tend to repeat tests over and over, until I land in a result."



Ron: "The world awaits, don't let everyone wait for longer. One has already leaked, but only the backside. Still, I take prototype testing very seriously."



Rob: "You can always count on me for that. After all,

I volunteered to make my 650S a test mule..."​

Ron: "And I have been awaiting for the results of your own testing. I need it by next week."



Rob: "Oh alright, then.... seems that you cannot afford to stall. Next week, got it."



Rob cuts off the conversation, and throws away the cigarette. He breathes out a sigh.



Back in the race, tension rises, as Owen is more determined to beat the person who humiliated him often in his youth.

Owen: "I never really understood why you always have to be so mean... and even to the point of humiliating me whenever you enter in the orphanage."


In the Jaguar, Edward is having thoughts as well.


Edward: "The very reason why I was rough on you, Owen.... is because knowing that you're the child of my greatest rival, I just have to plant the seed in to you, and you weren't aware that it was growing. Brandon's death meant that he ran away from the battle. I didn't care how he died, but the fact that he disappeared in the face of the world, that meant cowardice for me. He may have won in our last battle, but I never gave up, and still intended to challenge him.

But now, Owen... having realized that you have the same traits as your father, I decided to mold you in his image, by those cryptic remarks. I have done it successfully, and now racing you means that I am racing Brandon once again, that this is the opportunity for me to have my revenge!"



Owen decides to end this once and for all, and has shifted his strategy.


Owen: "Get ready, Mr. Edward. Time for you to meet your maker!"



Owen then takes the outer lane and brakes late to line up with his opponent.

Edward: "What???"


Owen takes advantage of the KTM's light frame to be able to overtake outside.

And now the two cars are neck-and-neck.




Owen: "I'm not going to budge by a single bit, old man!"

Edward: "Bloody hell! How could this be? This car have beaten every single car it went against! This is preposterous!"



And Owen delivers another blow, taking the inside.

Edward: "No!"



And while the XJ220 manages to recover, a high speed curve meets them, and Owen keeps his foot planted on the accelerator.


The advantage of modern racing technology now shines in this simplistic turn. The lightweight frame allows the X-Bow to turn sharp, while its flat bottom and body sculpted for downforce makes it stable at this high speed turn, allowing the car to tackle it much faster than the Jag.

Owen: "Lightweight rules the day! The spirit of Colin Chapman still lives in this car, despite being Austrian..."



And thus, in valor, Owen soldiers on, not even minding who his opponent is.

However, Edward still has his stubborn pride...




Edward: "You are not getting away! I am not going home as a loser again! You are dead, Brandon, and so does your legacy!"



Once again, the XJ220 powers out of the turn.




Edward: "I WILL HAVE THE LAST LAUGH!"

However, just like before, fate is cruel... and everyone suffers from it. Edward's heart suddenly stopped, and pain comes along with it.



Edward: "Ahhhhh!!! Oooh!!!"



Because of that unfortunate distraction, the XJ220 lost control. Owen, seeing his opponent lost control, prompts him to stop and turn back.

Owen then gets out of the car to check on Edward.

Owen: "Mr. Edward!"


Seeing the old man clutching his chest, Owen immediately reaches for his phone and dials 999.



Owen: "Hello! I need an ambulance! There is an old man here who had a heart attack! The location is at B184, Northern Essex, near Great Easton and Thaxted. This is life-or-death!"



Edward: "You... why?"


Owen: "Just don't utter a word! Hang in there!"





Moments later, Rob has received a call from Owen as well, informed of the situation.




Rob: "Looks like my little bro won. I expect nothing less at all."



Rob gets in his 650S and heads to Owen's current location.






End of Page 11




AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- Hmmmmm.... I wonder what's going on between Rob and Ron Dennis of McLaren? Why such connection exists? Find out soon...




- I can make a room tonight from 9 pm to 12 am (1 pm to 4 pm GMT), and hope to see you tonight!

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 12 - Worthy Successor



Location: Motoring Weekly Office, Nishi-Shinjuku, Tokyo, Japan
Time: 10 am, the next day...



Nobuyuki: "YOU WHAT?!?"


Takuma: "You heard it right, my family and I will move to London. Now you're wondering why I sold my house to Takanori. He can finally live back here in Tokyo, and he won't get late to work anymore. Plus, he can take care of Mom and the shop. There are so many things that needs to be done there - chief of which is Little Ben's studying and eventually Shin will study there too. Hiroyuki-san has now assigned me as the team's spokesperson as well, and having our sponsorship deals mostly in Europe, that's another reason to move. Add with that the fact that I am also handling Sir Ben's real estate matters.


And then, here's something you'll find it painful to hear."


Nobuhiko: "What is it?"



Takuma: "I accepted an offer from a British motoring magazine, as a reviewer of various cars, just like here. But the offer is, admittedly, better than here. I have already talked this matter with the boss and the EIC, and they respected my decision to leave."



Nobuyuki: "So we're not going to have a fighting bull in this office anymore? Awwww.... and also, I will miss the one person who argues with me especially during our News segment of our show."



Takanori: "Well, let's just wish Aniki here good luck with the new opportunity he accepted. It's sad for us to see him go, but he has to fulfill his priorities."



Takuma: "I'll miss you all, guys, especially Takanori's singing. Only here in work of course. We are still Dream Alliance, anyway. We can still see each other in future races."



Nobuyuki: "Of course!"


Nobuyuki then hugs Takuma...



Nobuyuki: "I'll miss my best buddy here in the office."



Takuma: "You can still see me, you know? And admit it... you have a thing on me, haven't you? I bet you stare at my billboard in Shibuya. I bet you love to see me shirtless, huh? I get it..."



Nobuyuki: "There he goes again! I'll miss that too!"




Takuma: "My family and I will leave in a few days time. Just make sure everything is still in order here even though I'm gone, okay? And make sure your replacement is as good as me."

************************************************************


​

Location: Owen's Home, Essex, UK
Time: 5 pm



Owen just arrived home from the hospital, having briefly checked on Edward's condition. The old man is recuperating at the moment. He threw away any insult he received from him, and just moved on after finally managing to defend his late father's honor.


But not everything is wrapped up for Owen, it seems...




Owen: "I may have proven myself to Mr. Edward... but what about being a Hatch? Am I really worthy?"



He grabs his smartphone and calls on Rob. Rob is preparing to leave the M16 headquarters in London.



Owen: "Oh hello. Did I disturb you?"


Rob: "A bit. But I'm about to head home. Why?"



Owen: "Something is bugging me."



Rob: "The Essex Hero and that old man again, huh?"


Owen: "It's not that. I am questioning my own worth as a Hatch."


Rob: "What are you faffing about?"


Owen: "Well... how about this? What if... both of us will race?"


Rob: "A race? Quite intriguing."



Owen: "I want to see it myself, how I gauge against one of the fastest drivers in the team, and as well as finding out if I am worthy in the family."



Rob: "Heh.... if you insist, then. All right, I'm game. Same place where you raced that old man?"


Owen: "Absolutely. Can we do it next weekend?"

***********************************************************​

Having left the headquarters, Rob immediately speeds his way to Essex, as he intended, since he still has to oversee the restoration of the old house.


But of course, his conversation with Owen bothered him...

Rob: "Owen does not have to do this at all. He has proven more than enough in his recent races in the team."

Rob steps on the accelerator hard, and the 650S' 3.8 liter twin turbo V8 quickly responds to his command.

Rob: "If he is to doubt himself and seeks for answers, then as a big brother... I will help him find the answer."


The 650S is known to be very quick, so quick in fact that Rob already has to step on the brake pedal after zipping through the high speed section in a blink of an eye.

Rob: "But more importantly, it's a chance for me to test this car further. I do want to see how this stacks up against a track day car. McLaren has proven itself to have built the Ultimate Road Car when the F1 graced the roads. The 12C effectively provided a McLaren road car for everyone, and so does this Aventador-beating 650S.


And now, this project.... also has to fill in the shoes of the F1!"







End of Page 12

​

 

[AudiMan2011]

Game on..

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 13 - F1 Technology


Location: Takuma's condominium room, London, UK
Time: 5 pm, two days later




Whew... and there are still some boxes left to sort out. Moving to London is one of the heaviest decisions I made. It's just that all of my responsibilities here outweigh my promise of taking care of mother. So selling the house to Takanori, and he and his family moving there would somehow ease my worries about her. Little Ben wanted to study in London all along, and his karting adventures continue there as well. Shin will surely understand. Being an infant, he's still not aware, but I'm sure he won't mind studying here too.


But thankfully, in the span of two days after moving in here in this condominium that I now own (thanks to being the adopted son of a real estate business owner...), all the things needed are now set in order. There are still some shopping left to do, and Little Ben will also start school in September. My work will start next week, so every needs in the condo must be done today. The unit where we live in is a large, 3-bedroom unit with a suite and kitchen.






And then... Rob called. What does he want now???



Rob: "Hey, you free?"


Takuma: "Well, I could use a night out, but I have yet to sort out things here in the condo. Apparently, me and my family have moved in here."


Rob: "Great, at least I could bicker with you more often than ever. So why the move?"


Takuma: "I have lots of stuff to do here - Sir Ben's real estate, Little Ben's schooling, our team's sponsorship matters, and my new job as a reviewer in a motoring magazine, as a field reviewer for its upcoming YouTube channel. They saw my videos, and decided to offer me a much better opportunity."



Rob: "Wish you all the best, then. For sure, you have no excuse at all for not attending my wedding. Jenny will really kill you."



Takuma: "Hey, tell her that I'll come, I swear. With my family, of course."



Rob: "Now, can we meet up at Latte Night? Where Owen used to work?"


Takuma: "Sure. Just give me an hour to finish sorting out things here in the room."



After the call, I immediately tell my wife not to prepare dinner for me. She expected it anyway, knowing how Rob and I are very close. Time to sort out...

************************************************************


​

Location: Latte Night
Time: 6 pm



I have arrived at the coffee shop. Rob is already drinking his coffee, and then I ordered mine. I joined him at the table. Hmmmm.... you look like you're in deep thoughts.



Rob: "There you are."


Takuma: "Something bugging you?"



Rob: "Owen challenged me to a race."



Takuma: "What?!?"



Rob: "He wants to see if he truly is a member of my family. How odd, I must say. But I have to help him find the answer. He's still doubting himself, as always."




Takuma: "Hey, after that recent revelation, of course he's still troubled."



Rob: "He already defeated our father's rival, even sending him to the hospital."



Takuma: "Whoa... so you plan on going all-out, then?"



Rob: "Of course. I have to. It's a helpful way for Owen in finding his answer."



Takuma: "I don't see anything wrong about that, pushing Owen to his limits for a bit.

Hey, I'll come along and watch. Besides, I need to check out your father's old house and see if it's looking fresh."



Rob: "Oh, that... just a few finishing touches left, and we can buy furniture for it."

************************************************************
​

Location: B184 road, Essex
Time: 3 pm, Saturday



Oh... the sun came out. And it's really shining! It's quite rare to see sunlight here in UK. Rob and I have arrived first, and he decided to use his McLaren 650S for the duel.



Rob: "All that's left, is Owen..."


Takuma: "Yeah."



Rob: "The important thing is that his mind has been freed from trouble. That's the only thing I wish right now for him."



Moments later, Owen's blue KTM arrives. We all get out of our cars for a brief talk...




Owen: "Such a miracle, a sunny day."



Rob: "Take it as a sign. Our father wants to see our race."

​

Owen: "Yeah, I think so."



Rob: "He probably wants to see you run once again, and for that to happen, he has stop the weather."



Owen: "Please give me everything you got. Do not ever hold back."



Rob: "All right, then. Let's start."




We got back in our cars without further adieu. Rob presses three buttons on the center console at the same time. It's quite odd that McLaren did not include an easy switch to turn off the traction control.


A slow rolling start follows, and after a brief moment of sigh from Rob, he steps on it.

Owen: "Quick... much quicker than the XJ220!!!"

Rob spares no moment in breaking a tiniest whiff of his concentration. Sure, the KTM X-Bow is capable of cornering at rocket ship speeds, but this 650S is no slouch either! McLaren has poured every bit of F1 expertise in this car!

And there's the engine. The way it delivers power is linear! Acceleration picks up the moment Rob steps on the pedal! I sense no turbo lag at all!




Owen: "390 horsepower is 390 horsepower, and 650 horsepower is 650 horsepower. Numbers don't lie, indeed!"

Owen: "I can only keep up in corner entry, but mid-corner to exit.... the McLaren simply blasts away!"

But Rob made a tiny mistake, as the McLaren hit the ditch for a moment, which provided Owen an opportunity to pass.

However, as expected, the 650S quickly recovers. It is breathing down on the KTM.



Owen: "That opportunity was nothing at all! Useless!"



Rob will definitely not cut even a tiniest amount of slack. He will go all out if he wants to.

See? It easily overtakes the KTM, and blocks it in braking.




Now, we've entered in a high speed section...



Rob: "You asked for this, Owen..."




Hey Rob, back off a bit!

Owen: "Whoa! Bloody hell! The McLaren is disappearing quickly!"



We're flying away. I take a peek at the tachometer, as Rob just shifted 7th gear.

Oddly enough, Rob's McLaren is LHD and reads in KM/H since he cruises the Mainland Europe.


The speed? 320 KM/H, according to the readout. And that's not even touching the redline yet!





End of Page 13





AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- Owen, you should really expect a rough battle. Not only you're dealing with a badass, but also, that 650S did 6:45 in the Nurburgring (Sports Soft tires)

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 14 - Being a Hatch



We have definitely left Owen behind. Hey Rob, I think you went too far.... literally. I can feel for Owen right now, actually. I know that feeling. I see Rob as a rival too, a rival that is always one step ahead.


The feeling you're truly left behind by a rival, I know that! Hang on, Owen. Light the fire within you!

Owen: "Late braking... just brake late."



Whoa... Owen has kept up?

Rob: "Heh... bring it on. Going all-out is truly the right decision."



The power difference here is obvious as Rob steps on it once again. McLaren will not clown around when it comes to engineering.

Owen: "I can close the gap only by braking. But only I have faster turn-in than the McLaren.

However, this McLaren has something called "Brake Steer", wherein it brakes the inside wheel to tuck it in line to prevent understeer. So basically, this is a battle of raw simplicity versus top notch technology!



And with that, Rob is able to exit the corner much faster than Owen does.


Owen: "Shoot... nothing works at all!"

While Rob let off the pedal while tackling this next gentle corner, Owen simply pushes it! Go ahead! Take advantage of the X-Bow's light frame!

Rob: "Good... good! Now a little more push!"

Rob: "That's what we are! You are a Hatch! Father taught me to push along, even if times are tough! It applies to both racing and in life!"

Rob: "Owen... you've already found your answer. You are worthy to be a part of our family. Your origins doesn't matter!


Now come, little brother! Show to me that you don't doubt anymore, that you truly embrace being a Hatch!"

Owen: "He's going away again... am I this pathetic? Is this the answer to my question?"

Owen: "I don't know what to do next! I ran out of options! How am I supposed to even touch him?!?"





End of Page 14

 

[Niku Driver HC]

Man, is this battle tense to watch or what? Rob and Owen are holding nothing back, something has got to give...

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 15 - The Answer



Tension has risen to its highest. Neither Rob nor Owen is giving any quarter. I just look at my best buddy here in the McLaren, and he looks totally serious, the type that cannot be disturbed by anything...

At the next corner, Owen made a surprise attack. He took the outside lane.



Owen: "As long as this battle lingers, I shall keep on fighting! This is one battle I will never forget!"

Owen: "I am nearing to the answer I'm looking for!"

Rob: "Owen... as long as I exist, I shall keep on pushing you to be faster. I am embracing this new role as your big brother."

Owen: "Every race I won... from the very first one.... they all point at one direction. They all tell me where the answer is...


...and now this race.... finally shed light!"

Another overtaking maneuver by Owen, and it's now successful! That's the spirit!



Owen: "I have found the answer! I am worthy! I deserve to be a Hatch!"


Owen applies more pressure on the pedal, and shows a smile on his face, having finally pushed his doubts away.


(Background Music: Symbol - Forever Young)

Whoa! Owen's pace has drastically improved! Even Rob displays a shocked expression! He even broke a sweat!

Rob: "Heh... that's what I want to see! THAT IS A PROPER WAY TO DRIVE!"


I think adrenalin is pumping through these two cue balls. I am at the edge of my seat!

While we may have set a gap from Owen once again, I don't think he's allowing himself to fall behind now.

And it shows. In the next corner, Owen was able to catch by late braking, and is about to steal the McLaren's line! That is actually one way to fight against the Brake Steer!

Rob: "Ugh... no... I've used up almost all grip."



Owen: "I'm still right here! Don't let up for a second!"

As Rob steers the wheel to attack the next corner... whoa! We're losing control!



Rob: "Jeez! Damn..."

It's just a normal reaction for a race car driver to slam the brakes when situation like this happens. But of course, being light, the KTM's balance can easily be disrupted. Because of our spin, Owen has also lost momentum.

Owen: "No!!!"




The battle has gotten too intense. Both cars (and drivers) have exhausted their means to keep on fighting. It's safe to say that both of them are equals. Hopefully Owen has been enlightened by this experience.




All of us get out of the cars, having decided that this battle is a draw.



Rob: "I gotta hand it to you, Owen. You made me sweat."


Owen: "I gave my all here, but it seems..."



Rob: "There you go again. If you're not good, then this conclusion would have never happened."



Owen: "But more importantly... I have found my answer. Every battle I won, it pointed to one direction. The direction leading towards to the answer of my question. Even when I was just a barista, I wondered why am I obsessed with something fast, that lead me to buy my first car and brought it in track days. Now I see... that I truly am a Hatch, despite the circumstances. Our father's genes runs strong within me."



Rob just shows a smile, and then walks towards his little half-brother. He then gives him a brotherly hug and pats on his back.



Rob: "I'm truly proud of you, Owen. I'm glad that fate brought me to that coffee shop."





End of Page 15

 

[Harsk100]

Why you always choose the Initial D music? Are you a fan of Initial D?

 

[RCKakashi14]

Why you always choose the Initial D music? Are you a fan of Initial D?

Yes, but not too much of it. Plus, expect GT6 OST soon, just saving them for the last.