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

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That was really unexpected when the driver turned out to be Michiharu's ghost.
 
Page 9 - A Clear Vision


So... all along, Oyaji is watching over me. He knew the fact that I was in a slump, after defeated twice by Nobuhiko in separate time trials.

That Nissan, and his street racing activities turned out to be his way of reaching out to me, that I must go back in action, to defeat Nobuhiko once and for all.

The letter I read, melted my heart once again. It was one of the few moments that I actually cried. My tough guy image disappeared in that very moment.


Oyaji... I miss you so much... how I wish, I could have raced you at an earlier time, and get to know you more.



When we brought the car back to Kaido's shop, Kaido takes time to explain the mechanics of the car first, as we intend to take it out to Tsukuba Circuit on the weekend.


And the car's name is "2020".... and according to Kaido, it means clarity of view, a clear path, which sums up Oyaji's purpose. He wants to clear my vision, to pursue my path without distractions, without anyone standing in my way.




Kaido: "This car is actually a hybrid. The V6 taken from a GT-R produces 600 horsepower, but it's augmented by a hybrid motor that produces 150 or so horsepower. You can use that motor to have a temporary boost of speed and you can charge it via regenerative braking.

In terms of handling, the car is rear-wheel drive on the first two gears. This was done so as a special request by your father, coming from his experiences driving his R32 GT-R. The rear-wheel drive will allow this car to tackle technical corners with ease. Then shift to third gear and the hybrid system kicks in to make it four-wheel drive."


Takanori: "No wonder it's so fast..."


Kaido: "The secret to its speed is the fact that the body is formed for downforce, and it's all carbon-fiber. The interior is very simplistic similar to a race car. And the turbos in that engine never lag. You'll never notice a drop in boost once you change gears."


Takuma: "These result in a beast that no one could touch."


Kaido: "Your father's fondness in turbochargers pushed him to make this, and as well as the progression of car technology. We only communicated through writing, as he never spoke. Then I relay the instructions to some of Nissan's best engineers, the people behind the GT-R Super GT500 program."


Takanori: "That's an impressive development process!"



Kaido: "Your father started this, immediately after he "met" you, Takuma. It took us a year to make this in secret, and we have to stay up all night for this, since we make the car after working hours."




Wow.... to think he really have to put in a lot of effort, just to reach out to me. To think that car is the answer...



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



Location: Tsukuba Circuit
Time: 4 pm, Saturday


Here it is, we are putting the Nissan 2020 on to its paces.



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Takanori actually ordered me to drive it, since it was meant for me. I know that I don't like Nissans, but I have to appreciate a gift, especially that it came from my beloved father. With the unique drivetrain, it could possible change my views on four-wheel drive cars.


Turn-in is sharp, like a race car, but with progressive understeer. Understeer isn't really bad at all, and that's something of a misconception among car enthusiasts. Understeer is a sign that a car is sure-footed overall, it just has to be controlled.


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And on that short straight, the acceleration exceeds that of an Aventador! It's quite the level of the Huayra! Mind you, I have yet to touch the KERS Boost!


The car touched 220 km/h at the end of the straight. Hey, that's very fast. Supercars would normally touch from 180-200 km/h at Tsukuba's short straight.


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According to Takanori, I recorded a lap time of 55.7 seconds. Hey, that's an amazing lap time for a hyper hybrid.

I guess I can use this should I face a LaFerrari or McLaren P1. You thought up of an amazing masterpiece, Oyaji. You made me accept 4WD drivetrains, and even the hybrid technology.



When I arrived home, I stashed it. But before I can head to the living room, I gave it another stare.




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Once again, tears flow out from my eyes. You loved me all along, despite the fact that I loathed you for most of my life. You sacrificed everything... just to look for me.

With the culmination of all your efforts, augmented by love, I have decided that I should use this often, but not to the point of using it everyday. I'll use it whenever I think of you.


It's just too precious for it to be abused. I'll also allow Takanori to use this. He actually knows more about the car's dynamics than I do.


And as for the purpose, you made my vision very clear. I won't be blinded by weakness anymore! I will continue to walk the path I have created, using my flames as light, and determination as my strength!





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



Location: Silverstone GP, England
Time: 8 am



Early in the morning, the Hatch Brothers are already testing their weapon for the World Time Attack Championship. However, Dennis is just looking at the car's spec sheet while waiting for his turn at the pit lane.


And the car that will prove its mettle is...



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Rob is out first, to familiarize himself of the car's performance, despite the fact that he will not be the one doing the driving in the tournament.

With funding from Hiroyuki, the brothers are on full force, with nothing hindering them from entering the competition.




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Rob's race suit consists of a camouflaged design - to signify his association with the military, in particular with the British Secret Intelligence Service, the MI6. Then his helmet has a design of a cross representing the flag of England.



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With everything set, Rob is now more determined to get his career back on track.



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Rob: "I know it's Dennis' turn first, and I shall let that happen. But when the spotlight is on me, I'll crawl my way back to top, as the fastest racer of Europe! And when that is accomplished...






...the next stage is the entire world. Get ready, Takuma Kanonji!"




THE END




AUTHOR'S NOTES:



- Thank you for reading Dream Alliance 3. It's quite shorter than the previous two, but I still appreciate the time you spend in reading this.


- Next fanfic is titled:
The Hatch - it symbolizes the rebirth of what was once known as Europe's fastest.



- OP is also updated. Check out Rob Hatch's profile. Spoiler tags for each of the entries will be included as this thread progresses. I intend to put all my GT6 fanfic in one, single thread.






 
THE HATCH


What was once a feared name in Motorsports shall crawl its way back to the top. The World Time Attack Championship shall provide as a gateway.

However, it's not all that simple. The serum project, spearheaded by Professor Bill Murray, is still ongoing. Rob Hatch sees it as a threat, plus that mad scientist has a connection to his family - something that Rob despises, and sets out to cut that bond once and for all.


Page 1 - First Step


Location: A secret laboratory in Germany
Time: 9 pm



A man draped in a white laboratory coat walks through the dark corridor. His footsteps echo through the corridor as he walks along, whistling the Fur Elise.

The laboratory is situated underground, in a city in Germany. Only the man knows the place for obvious reasons.

He enters in a room, aligning his glasses before turning the knob. He greets the sight of a large pod, containing a subject. It contains Nash Hall - the last remaining robot of Silverblade. Nina Hanne defected with her brother, Adrian and are now in hiding.

The man behind it all? Professor Bill Murray. What can we know about him for now is that he injected all the data from the FIA GT3 Championship to Nash. He intends to use the robot for all the future races, for further research.




Bill: "The data acquisition shall be done in time. It will be just in time for the WTAC. The car...



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...is ready, on the other hand. I will make sure, that all the effort of fine-tuning and testing it will all be worth it. I shall show to everyone the Ultimate Street Machine!



This isn't over yet, Dream Alliance. What really boggles me is, why hinder progress? Why can't accept the fact that my technology will benefit all? A drop of this serum can turn you into a racing superstar. Who wouldn't want that?



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





Location: Brands Hatch GP, Kent, England
Time: 3 pm, Sunday



It is an open track day in one of England's most popular racing circuits - the Brands Hatch.


In a perfectly normal and fun day, it's also the opportunity for a legend to return...





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Some of the spectators recognize the black Lotus Europa Special that just blitzed by. They are even thinking that Brandon Hatch has come out of retirement, where in truth, Brandon has passed away and carried on the ownership of the car to his eldest son, Rob.


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The car was once known as "The Werewolf". And it's a giant slayer in its heyday. It still is proving its reputation in the current era, facing more powerful but heavier sports cars.




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Rob: "It still goes like absolute stink. Quintessentially British."



Rob's Sunday routine usually covers just the things he wants to do - from track days to cross-continent cruising. He does not want to go along with Dennis and his mother due to his falling out from the latter.


Then he exits the track and heads for home, leaving some spectators shocked upon the sudden return of The Werewolf.



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


Location: A hotel in London
Time: 3 pm, Tuesday


Zzzzzzz.... zzzzzzzz.... zzzzzzzz...



....erm.... what time is it?


3 pm!? Oh that's just great. I'm not really used to take a nap that long after lunch.


Oh here I am, alone in UK. Sent by Hiroyuki-san to help out Rob. It should be worth it, especially that we actually cancelled our entry and instead help Dennis out.


And my phone rings. It's Rob...



Rob: "Takuma? You awake?"


Takuma: "Just woke up."


Rob: "Great. I could use a workout partner. I'm in a gym just 2 blocks from your hotel."


Maybe that will energize me for the day. I gotta dress up...




When I arrived, I saw Rob in a room with a sandbag. He wears just MMA shorts and boxing gloves and is barefoot. His physique is just wicked. He's totally ripped, definitely more than I am.


Rob: "Hold the bag for me, please."


Takuma: "You just called me to hold this bag for you? Come on..."


Rob: "We need to talk too. This is about Silverblade."


He unleashes strong punches to the bag. Then he makes them stronger.

And then kicks followed.


Rob: "It turns out Nina and Adrian defected from Silverblade."


Takuma: "I see. So how would it affect your mission?"


Rob: "It would be a bit easier to gather intel, especially that I see Nina doing about her chores more often."


Takuma: "Isn't she aware that she might be in danger? She knows too much."


Rob: "And this is when my mission starts. Right now."


Rob's roundhouse kick destroyed the sandbag! Hey! *cough cough* I've got sand all over!


Takuma: *cough cough* "Whoa!"


Rob: "It's been hanging there for years. Time to give it a proper retirement. Let's go."



After both of us finished having a shower, Rob puts on a tuxedo. Eh? Is there a party?



Takuma: "What's the occasion?"


Rob: "The place I'm going to is a classy gathering. Nina is on her way there too, according to my sources."



We left the gym and headed to an avenue filled with restaurants and pubs.



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You may be wondering, but Rob and I actually agreed on changing colors on our respective MINIs. I repainted one in red with white stripes and then Rob has painted his with white and black stripes. He wants to be the "Handsome Rob"... and he looks the part. The license plate is a giveaway.


He gets the binoculars and focuses on something afar.



Takuma: "What are you looking at?"


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Rob: "Aston Martin. Can't believe that lovely robot got one. A mid-engined one-off developed by Professor Bill Murray along with Aston Martin's select engineers."




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Rob: "I'm going in. Stay here."


So I'm his puppy right now? Great... just make sure the entire mission will be exciting.


Rob gets out, fixing his bow tie while on the way to the gathering. I'm just sitting here, watching. I opened the glove box and found some maps. These might kill my boredom...


Rob enters a private party. All people are in their best clothing, and he sees Nina sitting at the bar, waiting for her drink.

He observes her, and then sees a man and his posse joining her. They are making their advances, prompting Rob to approach them.



Rob: "Excuse me, I don't think it's the gentlemanly way of inviting her. You're in a classy pub."


Posse: "Who are you?"


Rob: "Say hi to my fist."


The posse attacks him, but he beats them soundly, one by one, sending them flying to the front door.

Finally, Rob runs up to the leader of the posse and gives him a flying kick, sending the man straight out of the door, and completing the pile of his posse outside the street.



Rob then escorts Nina out of the pub, to her car.



Nina: "Oh thank you. I could have protected myself."


Rob: "You are just too gorgeous for you to have even a slight speck of dust on your lovely dress. That's why I stepped in. Rob Hatch, nice to meet you."



Nina: "Nina Hanne. Nice to meet you too."


Rob: "Here is my number. Call me if you want a chat, or a lovely stroll if you want."


Nina: "Sure. You are quite the nice guy. You are the first man I've met with such quality."


Nina also gives her number, then she smiles at him before she gets in her Aston Martin and leaves.


Takuma saw what happened, that made him drop his jaw.



Takuma: "Un...believable."



Rob then returns to the car. He just looked cool and badass when he walked away from the pub, like nothing happened at all.



Takuma: "Was that necessary?"


Rob: "Objective accomplished, then. I got her number, and she got mine. First step taken care of. On to the next."





Okay... you're the boss. Let's just get out of here.




End of Page 1

 
Page 2 - Date at River Thames


So, in order for Rob to accomplish his mission, he has to get close to Nina. And he did that quite flawlessly. He roughed up some men and then got her number. They will meet soon, definitely.


What will he do next? All I can do is help Dennis out for the upcoming tournament. Damn... if only I can get close to MI6...


And now, he's out again. Where is he? I have to do my part of the bargain.





Location: Ascari Race Resort, Spain
Time: 3 pm



Ascari - the venue for the first round of the World Time Attack Championship. A lone car is having some practice laps.



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What's a Japan-only, STi NBR Challenge doing in Europe? The owner have it imported, of course. It seems to be the ideal car for Ascari's tough corners.


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That is obviously the benefit of four-wheel drive. Subaru is an ace when it comes to that technology, rivaling Audi's quattro 4WD system.




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By the looks of it, it's probable that it would compete in the World Time Attack Championship. The driver? A woman, a young one at that.



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Having done more than 10 laps, she decides to take a break.



The woman takes off her helmet, revealing her long, wavy, maple hair. She is in her mid-20s, quite young to achieve such speed in the track.



Rebecca: "What's the fastest lap time?"


Crew member: "2 minutes and 4.2 seconds."


Rebecca: "That's great! Faster than my target time of 2 minutes and 5 seconds. But I'm having butterflies in my stomach right now."


Crew member: "It may interest you to know that Dennis Hatch will be participating. You know the once-legendary, Brandon Hatch? Dennis is his youngest son."


Rebecca: "Really? I thought Dennis would focus on his studies."


Crew member: "You know Dennis?"


Rebecca: "He's an old friend back in high school. Oh, sorry, I got to urinate for a while."



The woman's full name is Rebecca Crewe. She hails from the Isle of Man, and got enticed in the world of racing the moment she saw a rally car tearing up the road.



She seems to have a link with Dennis. It appears so, having her face suddenly shifted in a serious mood while walking on the way to the bathroom.





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



Location: Hatch residence, London, England
Time: 5 pm


Dennis is looking at the KTM, before he prepares dinner.


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And just as he is about to head back inside, Rob pays a visit.



Dennis: "Brother!"


Rob: "Don't be surprised. I haven't changed my decision about going to this place. I just want to check on you and the car.

And to remind you about the venue for the first round."



Dennis: "Where would that be?"


Rob: "Ascari Race Resort in Spain. Next week would be the big day, and you have to be there three days before, as we will have practice."



Dennis: "I got it. You know...




...I will cook supper for tonight. Want to eat with us?"



Rob: "Forget it. Haven't you forgotten what I told you before?"



Dennis: "Mother is..."



Rob: "What? Penitent?


When she breaks it off with Bill, then maybe I'll reconsider. Do not ever bring that up again. And I am monitoring her boyfriend's actions right now."



Dennis: "What?!?"



Rob: "There's no need for you to know why. Maybe you should ask Amelia about it."


Dennis: "Amelia... hey, she's still our mother! Why call her by her name?"



Rob: "She's a complete stranger to me from now on. And don't threaten me, about you backing off from the championship if I don't see her. I know you. It would be YOUR LOSS if you did, not mine.

I can revive my career on my own.


Now, don't sacrifice your career just to fix this family. Find another way, or if I were you, give it up.


I won't be here for long. I've got something to do. See you next week."



Rob leaves the home, clenching his fists.




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


Location: London


Rob takes a stroll along the city center. He buys a bracelet, for Nina.


And speaking of the devil, he receives a call from her.



Rob: "Oh hello?"


Nina: "Hey, are you free?"


Rob: "It's lovely for you to call me. You might be thinking I'm just playing around with you."


Nina: "I just want to thank you for last time."


Rob: "That was nothing. You deserve someone better. You can't just go out with those shady men."


Nina: "How about meeting me now at River Thames? I'm looking at the wonderful river right now."


Rob: "Perfect. That should do it."




Then the two meet, and they look at the ferries passing along. After a slight gust of wind, Rob gives her the bracelet.


Nina: "For me? Wow..."


Rob: "How many men do you think would bother doing this right now?"


When Nina is in the process of putting her bracelet on her right wrist, Rob puts his arm on her shoulders, then his right hand quickly takes out a small flash drive from the sleeve, and puts it on her nape.


Upon attachment, the USB lights up....




As it turns out, some agents in MI6's computer room are actually controlling the USB's functions. They copy all the data to the flash drive, while Rob is talking to Nina.




Nina: "Such a lovely bracelet."


Rob: "I know what's best for a woman like you. Say, how about I treat you to dinner?"


With his arm still on her shoulders, his right hand takes out the USB from her port and returns it back to the sleeve of his leather jacket.

Before doing that sneaky move, Rob remembered the time he was told by his superior the time it takes for the USB to copy all the data.




Nina: "Sure. I won't mind."



Rob: "You have the liberty to choose. You're the boss this time."






End of Page 2



Author's Notes:



- Expect more Jason Statham-esque fight scenes. :lol: Rob is heavily inspired by Jason Statham, badass at both driving and kicking butt. And there might be references on Transporter or The Expendables as well.


 
Page 3 - Rob's Tears


Location: M16 Headquarters, Vauxhall Cross, River Thames, London
Time: 9 am, the next day



Rob is at his desk browsing the data that he collected from Nina. His colleague, Mark, is also analyzing the data. They are waiting for their superior, named Conrad Banks who shall give further orders.


Mark: "Hey, how's the date last night?"



Rob: "Just a bit more special. We had a candlelight dinner and that's all."


Mark: "You didn't use your moves, then. You're weak!"


Rob: "We are just getting to know each other. And it's awkward if we are on the bed already on did some horseback riding."



Mark: "We are getting close, am I right?"


Rob: "Hopefully I can take down that mad scientist once and for all. Just make sure he doesn't make a mistake in turning in against me."



Minutes later, Conrad arrives.



Conrad: "Agent Hatch, come with me in my room."



Mark gets back on his desk while the other two leave.


Inside, Rob plugs the flash drive in Conrad's laptop. They open the files.


Conrad: "So Nina had been gathering data from your racing team ever since."


Rob: "Not just her, but also everyone in Team Silverblade."


Conrad: "Now, let's see if through these files, we can locate Professor Bill's whereabouts. After all, he created her. The problem is what facility, and where."


Rob: "Sir, I have a hunch that Professor Bill won't be there. He'll most likely be at the first round of the World Time Attack Championship in Ascari Race Resort in Spain."


Conrad: "But at least we can commence a raid in the laboratory and gather more information."


Rob: "That's a capital idea."



Conrad: "Okay... seems that we have an answer. Germany it is. Her transfer of data upon her creation was recorded in Stuttgart. I'll send a team there, while you monitor Professor Bill in that tournament you're talking about.

After all, it's your business, am I right? Just make sure that in the end, he's alive, that he can provide info."



Rob: "I'll try my best to suppress myself. As an agent, I'll leave my emotions out of this."




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




Location: An inn at Zahara village, Andalucia, Spain
Time: 7 am, 2 days later



Oh great... I woke up very early again. And...


...Rob is already dressed?


You may wonder why we're in Spain, that's because we've got to help Dennis. Dennis is in the other room, still asleep, but Rob didn't wake him up for now.




Rob: "Get dressed. Let's go out for a drive."



Takuma: "Huh?"



Rob: "I thought the Japanese are very punctual, and always wake up early to be ready. You gotta hurry."



Okay! Okay! Just let me take a shower...



Man, Rob is just as bossy as I am. Well, what have I told you? We share the same traits. I guess this is karma.



After that, we didn't really have time to have even a simple cup of coffee. Rob and I get in his McLaren 650S. I had driven an MP4-12C in the previous season of our show, and it's such an amazing car, so amazing that it got me into thinking and considering buying one.


So, with the already heroic capabilities of the 12C enhanced in the form of the 650S, will it set a benchmark?

Only Rob can answer...



As we enter the road, Rob floors it immediately. Whoa! Hey!




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Rob: "It's the last week of the month, that's why."


Takuma: "Huh? Is there something special?"




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Braking is still stellar, despite the increased power.



Rob: "When father was still alive, he used to bring me here, every last week of the month."





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There's no traffic at this hour, of course, but Rob just treats this like a racing circuit! Is he insane? Though I enjoy the view of its surroundings, from the lake to the Sierra mountains.


Then in a high speed stretch, the car hit 325 km/h before Rob slams on the brake pedal. Such brutal acceleration for 650 horsepower, on par with hypercars! The Ferrari 458 Speciale will wet its pants.



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Takuma: "Such an amazing view. I never found out about this wonderful place until now."





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Rob: "That is precisely why this place makes my father happy, even for that final week of the month."


Takuma: "I see."





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Rob: "We'll stop over at the windmills. It's a very special place."



He parks at the bottom part. I don't mind ascending the hill on foot. It's a good exercise.


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Rob: "The first time he brought me here when I was 10, I wondered if the windmills cools the place down. But father told me that they provide energy.


They're a symbol for him. They are the only ones providing him the "energy" and happiness ever since he divorced Amelia. He divorced her after a few years he caught her having a tryst with Professor Bill.


Father left Amelia and Dennis, and I went along with him. We lived together, and he made it a point to take me here, any day within the last week of the month.


Why last week of the month? He wants to end the month, smiling. Because he had been living mostly in depression, after he ended his career and that divorce. He believed that we should all end things with a smile. I then realized that I was the only source of his happiness.


You may ask how did he die. The way he didn't deserve... a gunshot. He attacked Bill and then got shot out of self-defense. I saw the whole thing, and I regret that I wasn't able to move an inch to stop their fight.


Even after he died... I continued this routine. Just for me to be happy, and as well as father from up the heavens."



And then... he finally broke his emotional wall. I see a few tears from his eyes.



Rob: "This is just my way, the only way, on how to express love to my father. And this is the only time, that I can let my tears fall."



That's really sad... He loved his father very much. Now, I found something that differentiates me from Rob.

I can't just lecture him how mothers take care of their children. I'm lucky to have a very caring mother, even though I was separate from her for most of my life.


I finally saw the other side of Rob. He has a soft spot, like everyone does. It's okay, Rob. A man has to cry too. Tears do not make a man less than he is.


After a brief moment of letting his tears flow, Rob wipes them off, and turns around to me.



Rob: "Let's go. We have to go back and then help Dennis today in Ascari."




End of Page 3



AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- Rob's McLaren 650S is faster than Takanori's C7 Corvette around Sierra. It had done 8:36.430 which is faster than the Corvette by 1.8 seconds. It also used Sports Soft tires for the time attack.



- Man, it took me hours just to fit the 650S' bumpers on the 12C. I finally found out how, and it should be quicker the next time I edit. The problem here is color matching, because of different exposures.



 
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Page 4 - Dennis and Rebecca


Location: Ascari Race Resort, Spain
Time: 10 pm




I woke up now with a realization. Rob is not the 100% tough guy that everyone thinks. He harbors a soft side too. He misses his father so much, and truly loves him. I wish I could say that to my father often...


One of the saddest facts we have to accept, is that we cannot turn back time. We all wish that, but we just can't. We want to correct the mistakes we did, and spend happier moments.


All we can do now, is simply move on.


But for Rob, that would be difficult, especially witnessing his father's tragic death. And I would safely assume that he harbors feelings of revenge. For sure, he'll be very hard to stop...




Anyhow, when we returned back to the inn, we had breakfast, along with Dennis. We immediately headed to Ascari, which isn't far off the place we're staying in.




Rob then instructs Dennis to tag along with him, to familiarize the track.



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Rob: "Ascari is a technical course that tests your car control abilities, especially lightweight cars such as the KTM."



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Rob: "The challenge here, is how to control a twitchy car like that on these track's twists and turns."


Dennis: "Got it."




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Rob: "Take this turn carefully, and..."



Meanwhile, while I'm waiting for them to return, I see a woman - probably the same age as Dennis - looking at the KTM.

Oh, there they are. Probably another tutorial lap...



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Rob: "2 minutes and 5.5 seconds. For the KTM, you can do it 2 seconds faster if you follow the lines I showed you.

Let's do another lap."




After 2 more laps, the brothers returned to the pit lane. The woman, for some reason, goes closer to me.

Then her face is filled with shock when she sees them.




Rebecca:
"Dennis?"



Dennis: "Rebecca?"



Rob: "Who is she?"


Dennis: "Just... a friend of mine."



Dennis then just gets in the KTM, making no effort in actually talking to her.



Dennis: "I have to practice now. I can't talk to you, Rebecca..."



Dennis just rockets off back to the course with the KTM. What an awkward situation.


Rebecca: "Sorry, I must have disturbed you."


Rob: "We are in a middle of the practice. The World Time Attack Championship will start 2 days from now."


Rebecca: "Really? You too, are joining?"


Rob: "Dennis will drive for the team."


Rebecca: "I see. Well, time for me to go, then."



She leaves us. Who is she? A participant? That situation was awkward, to think Dennis doesn't want to talk to her.

Something happened between them?


Meanwhile, in the track...





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Dennis: "Why? Why did you show up? And I thought... I could have forgotten you forever..."





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A flashback occurs in his mind, remembering their last conversation together...



Dennis: "Tell me, why didn't you show up in our date last night? That was supposed to celebrate our 2nd month together!"


Rebecca: "Dennis, I..."


And with that, his racing line had messed up...



15259901578_3729556e57_c.jpg




Rebecca: "I think we should just stay as friends..."


Dennis: "Why?!?"


Rebecca: "Because..."




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Rebecca: "I am someone else's girlfriend. He and I are already together before we met..."


Dennis: "I can't believe... YOU... You were fooling me for two months?!? So you're treating this like a game?"


Rebecca: "I suspected him of seeing another woman, I decided to spite him. Then I realized, he's truly committed after all."



15259739059_e53812a45b_c.jpg



Rebecca: "I hadn't found the courage to speak the truth to you. I must have said it at a much earlier time. I'm sorry..."


Dennis: "You.... USED ME!"


Rebecca: "Look, I..."



Dennis: "Don't talk to me ever again. It's all over. Your apology is simply cannot be accepted. I must go before we could humiliate ourselves further.


That was two months of nothing. You shall be vanquished from my heart forever."



The painful memory distracted him too much, that it was too late for him to slow down for the next corner.


15423443376_fab9d5d877_c.jpg



Dennis: "Oh bloody hell!"



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Dennis turns on the communication system.



Dennis: "I spun out. My mind just wandered."



Rob:
"Where? Maybe Takuma and I can find it somewhere within the premises. Do another lap."




Dennis: "Sorry. I'll concentrate this time."



End of Page 4


AUTHOR'S NOTES:



- Rob's McLaren will be repainted to orange in its next appearance. Orange is something easier to match colors with, even in different exposures. Plus, I also overwrote the bumpers, instead of blue, they're orange.












 
Dennis is going to have a rough time in the first round if he keeps thinking about his ex like that.
 
OK. And Michiaru? I saw one of pages which Takanori and Takuma readed the Michiaru's letter.

Michiharu is dead. Have you read my stories from GT5 Race Reports? I have started writing 2 years ago. There is a link on the top of the OP, go there first and then take time to read all of those, before you can read my current stories.
 
Page 5 - Involvement


Dennis messed up during practice, and it's just two days left before the main event starts. He didn't really tell us what went wrong.


Two days have passed without incident, and we just soldiered on.


It's on!


This is a battle of precision! No distractions, whatsoever. Another opportunity for one to prove his or her worth.


Oddly enough, though... there are only three of us in the street class. Maybe the serious competition is in those with non-street legal machines. The competition is on going, and participants are randomly called. Each are to be given 3 laps to run.


And then there's that woman again. Just as I thought, she'll be joining in as well. I wonder what's her connection with Dennis.


Anyhow, I am tuning the transmission ratios as I work underneath the car. The brothers are talking, for last briefing.


Okay, all done. Then when I slid myself out, I noticed a man in a suit briefly staring at me.




At the other side of the pit lane, Professor Bill gives instructions to Nash Hall. The energetic American robot gets the keys to a Volkswagen one-off car that's certified for road use, making them eligible for the class.


With Nash's turn to shine, Bill is rather confident, and enjoys a glass of wine...


Bill: "With four-wheel drive and plenty of torque, along with carefully designed aerodynamics, this is the perfect track day car also suitable for the road. Best of both worlds, in short.


And the Hatch brothers are here as well... Dennis is of my particular interest...."





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Back in the Dream Alliance pit garage...


Rob: "The mad scientist sent out one of his creations once again. A Volkswagen, out of all cars."


Dennis: "With that entry, I'm sure he's confident. Look at it go!"


Rob: "Whatever happened two days ago, forget it. Pour everything in this round."


Dennis: "Now I know... how you felt. How you felt when father caught our mother seeing another man."


Rob: "What are you talking about?"


Dennis: "Between me and Rebecca, it's a mirror reflecting what truly happened to our parents. Now I understand why you hate mother so much."




The Volkswagen GTI Roadster stuns the audience with its point-and-squirt abilities.



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15271146078_204e93e0fb_c.jpg




Plenty of torque can be unleashed at the step of the pedal, without any loss in traction. That's the advantage of four-wheel drive cars in time attacks, making most of them dominate in the field.




15271145928_6a068d3124_c.jpg



In its 3rd lap, the VW recorded 2 minutes and 4 seconds flat, its fastest time for the run.




With Rebecca's turn, Dennis simply takes his turn in setting up the car.




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Takuma: "Rob... look, someone is looking at us."


I pointed the shady man that is looking at me a while ago.



Rob: "Stay here and watch over Dennis. I'll deal with him..."



Roger that. And with Dennis setting up the car, he can be in danger at any moment. I hope my hunch is wrong...




15271145408_e7f9e49e2a_c.jpg





Rob approaches the man in a suit.



Rob: "Excuse me, what's your business here?"


The man walks away, and Rob follows suit.



Rob: "You're not answering my question."



Then when the two reach in an empty pit garage other men came along, surrounding Rob.


Rob: "All right, I'll make you all talk."



With silence, Rob looks around at the goons surrounding him. Then one of them rushes to Rob from behind. That goon grabs Rob's arms, unknown to him that Rob just slipped away, taking off his coat.

Rob then removes his necktie, and the man behind him is instantly strangled, then Rob kicks away some who attacked him from behind.

With that one incapacitated, Rob swings the man's body and hurls at them. Then he rushes and performs a sliding kick at the remaining men. Then another man attempts to grab his arms, but once again Rob slips away, taking off his long-sleeved shirt, with its buttons popped away, making him shirtless. Though he still held on the sleeves of his shirt, and then twisted it, to twirl the man who held it.

He then uses his long-sleeved shirt, as a whip and then it caught and wrapped the neck of another goon. Then he pulls it vigorously to spin the goon's head 360 degrees.


There is one last man standing, rushing to Rob with a gun. However, Rob disarms him by wrapping his shirt around the gun and throwing it away. Before the man could react, Rob performs a somersault kick hitting the man's chin and flew away a bit.


He then discards his shirt, and instead picks up his coat and buttons it up. Then he throws his necktie at one of the unconscious men.


Rob: "A little souvenir for a good fight."


Then he hears a ring in one of the henchman's phones. He simply picks it up, and it's an SMS message from Professor Bill that says:


"Remember, take Dennis as soon as he finishes his run."



Rob: "Better hire more goons, old man. Thanks for the phone."



He returns to his pit garage, like nothing happened.



Takuma: "Hey, what's with that man?"


Rob: "Nothing. I simply drove him away."


Takuma: "Simply, eh? I know that face. That smug face of yours. Something happened, am I right?"


Rob: "Let's just watch Dennis' ex performing laps. That Subie is really quick."




15457416002_5245097e27_c.jpg






Rebecca's fastest lap time is 2 minutes and 3.1 seconds.



Rob: "Impressive. Dennis, your little girlfriend can drive after all. You're next.

If I were you, use your anger to fuel you for this round. Just concentrate."



All right, Dennis. Show us what you got. Let's see if you can stack up to your big brother.






15457415712_7f5629991d_c.jpg




Dennis: "Watch me, Rebecca... You shall see the true me. The true me that you just played with. You'll see how wrong you are."




And then, Rob's phone rings. Conrad is on the other line.




Rob: "Sir."


Conrad: "Agent Hatch, you have to report to HQ immediately after that event. We brought in a special someone...


...your mother, no less."


Rob: "Why, sir?"



Conrad: "She's involved. We arrested her from the laboratory raid in Germany. You are to interrogate her.


But keep your emotions out of this. We need intel."



Rob: "Understood."




End of Page 5
 
Page 6 - Involvement (Part 2)


Dennis, time to prove yourself in the eyes of the world. You have stepped up in the world stage at this very moment.

And Rob... heh... your smug face shows up once again. No, don't hide anything from me.



Takuma: "Hey, I'll go to the lavatory."


Rob: "Lavatory is at the right."


Whew... I really need a wee. I can't hold it any further!


While on my way, I saw some men, heavily injured, crawling for their lives. Huh? What happened? And they all look the same as the man that looked at me a while ago!


Rob has something to do with this. I knew it... when his face shows that smug look, he did something badass once again. He whooped them up real bad, huh?


Well, no time to stop. Gotta head to the lavatory!




In the action, Dennis spares no quarter. It does seem his anger fuels him to win this round.


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Lap 1 - 2:03.014


The professor is shocked by the lap time, hence further intrigued by Dennis' capabilities.


Nash: "Quite an impressive lap there, good sir! I think I may have found a rival."


Bill: "Ah... Dennis shall be mine soon. This is perfect timing, he shows off his capabilities, and I shall capture him.


But you have the opportunity to gain, at the second round, at Willow Springs. The VW will surely have an advantage there."


He calls in one of his henchmen, which by rather bad luck, the phone is with Rob, ringing.



Bill: "Capture Dennis once he enters the pit lane. He will be our guinea pig."


Rob: "Sir... why don't you meet me in Pit Garage number 3? I have a better plan."


The call ended suddenly. Bewildered, Bill just heads to Pit Garage No. 3, and what he saw made him drop his jaw.



Bill: "Good lord...."


Henchman: "H...Help me... sir...."



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15282563897_9f21aecfe2_c.jpg




Lap 2 - 2:02.890


Dennis: "Don't take your eyes off me, Rebecca..."



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Lap 3 - 2:02.327


Whoa... those are just impressive numbers. To think that it even beat that Volkswagen one-off car, and Rebecca's STI, of which both are four-wheel drive cars.


And it's tough to deal with a 4WD!





Dennis returns to the pit lane, receiving a noogie from his big brother.



Rob: "Here something for your effort! Great job."


Dennis: "Hey, those 3 laps are tougher than I thought!"



Rob: "In our standings, we are leading in our class. Next round would be in Willow Springs in California. Now, let's get out of here, and let's celebrate.


Dinner's on me."



Dennis: "REALLY?!? THAT'S A MIRACLE!"



We have just finished packing up immediately, after all we're just a small crew for now, not as big as the usual attendance of the entire Dream Alliance crew. Rob helps in loading the KTM in the truck.



Then Rebecca approaches Dennis as we head back to the van.


Rebecca: "Congrats... I say you really have taken driving seriously."


Rebecca shows a smile, but Dennis responds with a cold answer.


Dennis: "It's just the beginning, Rebecca. The man you just cheated, and toyed before, is standing right in front of you. And he's going to show his true worth.


He'll make sure that you'll regret what you've done."




With just Dennis left, he enters the van and they set off, on their way back home to London. Another long trip lies ahead...


...but for Dennis, he can just sleep on it and forget the encounter with the woman who broke his heart.





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





Location: London, England
Time: 10 am, the next day



Rob is in a rush, to the MI6 headquarters. With no traffic around, he puts the pedal to the metal.




15282229529_3fdddf0302_c.jpg




And even powerslides when he turned to the next block.



15282496438_5dc9e3f8cd_c.jpg







He reaches the office and logs in. Without any time to lose, he enters the interrogation room, with his mother just sitting behind a table.


Conrad leaves the two, but observes outside by the big window.




Rob gives a cold stare to his mother, who obviously is stressed out and has aged more than ever.



Rob: "Looks like you're not good in hiding at all."


Amelia: "You want revenge? This is why you entered MI6?"


Rob: "My motives are none of your business. I am simply doing my job. It just happens that you are involved in what could be the biggest crime in the world of racing.


You just chose the wrong man you had a tryst with. You have no idea how many people he had murdered through his experiments. Or perhaps you are covering it up for him. Oh, what love can really do - it moves even the tallest of mountains."



Amelia: "I am innocent! The only blood on my hands are just my mishaps in the kitchen in our home! I was just manning the laboratory."



Rob: "Manning that laboratory will make you an accessory to the crime. Sure, your hands aren't stained with others' blood, but the fact that you know everything there is inside of it will make you an accomplice."


Amelia: "You are just getting back at me! I know you're mad at me ever since I divorced your father, but this is just too far!"




Rob: "Like what I said, my motives are none of your business. I am doing my job as an agent, and unfortunately for you, I specialize in field operations and...

...interrogation.



I'll give you today's scenario. Your lover attempted to abduct Dennis. As far as I know, you treat Dennis like an angel from heaven. You pour out every single love you have for him.



So as a mother, you would allow your precious son to be in danger?"



Amelia: "What are you talking about? I don't know Bill has the intention of doing that."



Rob: "Don't act innocent all of a sudden. Surely you know all of his plans, since you are with him, probably most of the time having all the fun in bed."



Amelia: "I AM YOUR MOTHER! Don't talk to me like that."



Rob slams his fist on the table, giving a fierce look, close to a killing intent.



Conrad: "Agent Hatch!"



Rob: "Then I am not your son, Amelia. Even if we are bound by blood, no one is above the law, and you shall be prosecuted accordingly.


Oh, don't worry, I'll arrange a cell for you and your lover. A king-sized bed shall arrive, for both of you to have the time of your lives inside. Surely, that would balance out jail time, am I right?



Consider this interrogation pointless, since you don't answer my queries properly. For now, go back to your room.


However...




...be thankful you are treated nicely here, and even if it is against my will, Dennis asked me for you to be in the Witness Protection Program."


Rob furiously leaves the room, slamming the door.



Conrad: "Agent Hatch..."


Conrad gets in, and then escorts the crying mother back to her specially prepared room.




Meanwhile, Rob heads to the balcony looking over the River Thames, and smokes a cigarette.


And then, a single tear comes out from his right eye as he looks up at the sunny sky.




End of Page 6



 
Rob's definitely feeling a little bit of guilt after what he's just said to his own estranged mother.
 
Page 7 - Brotherly Love



Location: Hatch family residence, London
Time: 7 pm, the next day



Dennis: "WHAT?!? WE'RE JUST GOING TO SKIP THE SECOND ROUND? JUST LIKE THAT?!?"


Oh dear... Dennis just snapped. And I thought the two are going down for dinner. I cooked dinner for them! Hey! Stop arguing!


Rob: "Dennis, you have no idea what's going on. And you have to thank me, that I treat Amelia right. She is treated like a queen but in truth doesn't deserve one."


Dennis: "Okay, now tell me what's going on!"


The two are on their way to the kitchen, and Rob didn't bother answering Dennis.


Rob: "Oh look, you cooked for us."


Takuma: "Well, with your mother in a special cell in MI6, then who would cook?"


Dennis: "Seriously, the two of you, you're hiding something, don't you? We will skip the 2nd round for no reason at all?"



Rob: "Eat first. Do not let my news ruin your appetite. When dining, there must always be positive air.

And our guest here cooked for us. Have a little respect."


Dennis is clearly upset. The opportunity to prove himself to the world just popped away, like a finger piercing a bubble.



Rob: "You did all the cleaning by yourself, Dennis? I appreciate your effort doing that, while she is just basking under the love of Bill."



Dennis: "Whatever. Just tell me why! I'm not going to eat until you spill something."


Rob: "Oh all right. Look, you are currently in danger. During the round in Ascari, there were men about to abduct you the moment you return the pit lane. I managed to avoid that because Takuma here noticed one of them.


Do you think, if you ever continued, you would accomplish your goal? There are more races in the future for you to prove yourself."


Dennis: "But this tournament is the stepping stone for me!"


Rob: "I understand. Actually, you should not be even here. You should be with Amelia in MI6, as both of you will be safer."


Dennis: "What the bloody hell is going on?!?"



Rob: "Professor Bill is after you. AND IF WE HAVE TO ABANDON THE TOURNAMENT for your safety, then I will."


Dennis: "You can't just decide things for me! I am a grown up!"


Rob: "I know that. But this time around, you are in terrible danger."



Dennis: "I can't believe this..."


Dennis just walked out... oh boy. I fear that their relationship will deteriorate further.



Takuma: "You know, since 3rd round is in Tsukuba Circuit in Japan, we should just go there, and Dennis can seek shelter to your home."



Rob: "I just... I cannot lose Dennis, like how we lost our father. Ugh... let's just eat, shall we?"





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



Location: MI6 HQ, London
Time: 10 am, the next day



Rob takes Dennis to the room where Amelia is kept under guard. The room is filled with all the necessary equipment and amenities - bed, a lavatory, television, and even some drinks.




Dennis approaches Amelia whilst Rob leans on the wall crossing his arms watching his younger brother talk to his mother.



Dennis: "Mother, are you okay?"


Amelia: "Don't worry about me. I am fine here, and you should watch yourself. Rob is doing what he can to protect you.


You are in danger, just listen to him. He has his reasons why you should back off."



Dennis: "I know that. But I want to prove myself. I want to have a flourishing career in the racing world!"




Amelia: "I understand, but now is not the time. Do not trust Professor Bill, okay? He is the very reason why Rob is angry at me for all his life. You will be safe if you just listen to your big brother."


Rob: "Both of us will be going to Japan, anyway... and he'll be safe there."



Amelia: "Dennis, could you leave us for a moment?"



Dennis complies as he leaves the room.




Amelia: "Look, Rob. I know how to accomplish your mission easier. Just listen to me. You don't have to forgive me nor love me, but at least listen.


If there is something I learned from my philandering, is how Professor Bill works. If both of you will go to Japan, then Dennis is still in danger.


His main branch of all serum manufacturing is in Japan, in a high-rise building in Yokohama City. Underneath is a laboratory, while his office is at the top. The entire property is filled with top notch security system with armed guards, because he knew that one day the authorities will attempt to raid the building.


His chances of capturing Dennis will be higher if you go to Japan. So please keep him away from danger!"



Rob: "I am going to honor Dennis' wish, by joining the third round in Japan, but I will also keep him safe, I promise you that.



Now, anything more for you to make up for?"



Amelia: "I can get close to Bill so you can capture him. You have to trust me on this."



Rob: "That will not be a problem, it's just that it has to be organized. I will select the top agents for this operation, for your back up, and my friend and I will be at the front lines."




Amelia: "You are going to risk your life for this? I can handle him! I can shoot a gun!"



Rob: "I shall be the one finishing the job, Amelia. And I am very well-versed in both armed and unarmed combat. A warrior who fears death is not a warrior.


I have to be the one getting rid of that scum from that family once and for all. I AM DOING THIS FOR MY FATHER AND FOR DENNIS. He wishes this family to be together once again."





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


Location: Willow Springs Raceway - Streets of Willow, California, USA
Time: 2 pm, the next day



Rebecca is among the participants who headed immediately to Willow Springs in the USA. As usual, she has to practice and get familiar to the track.


The whole of Willow Springs will be reserved for the event - the technical, Streets of Willow will be for the Street Class while the Unlimited class will run at the Raceway.





Rebecca: "I just want to say how sorry I am, but he just left. I would understand."



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Rebecca: "If I have to make it up to him, then it has to be winning this round. I finished 2nd last time, and if I win, it would be even..."




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Rebecca: "I cannot stay like this. I have to be a racer! I can show to him what I'm capable of! I'm a changed woman!"




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When she returned, her manager delivers news of Dennis' retiring of the 2nd round.






Rebecca: "Really?!? Why?"







Meanwhile, watching over the distance are Professor Bill and Nash Hall, the latter being eager to face off with not Dennis, but Rob.



Nash: "Rob here is the real deal, not Dennis. If Rob is part of the Dream Alliance, surely he must be so talented.


Too bad he ain't here."



Bill: "So they will not run for the 2nd round. Maybe because he's protecting Dennis.


Well, perish the previous idea. Rob is our new target. After all, he's the bad weed that needs to be taken out at all costs.


As long as he lingers, my plans will not proceed properly."



Nash: "Rob seems to be the good guy."



Bill: "You shouldn't have really been created with emotions and judgement. But then again, that won't mask the fact you're a robot.


The client expects you to perform at maximum efficiency. Our loss in the first round will be the only one tolerated."



Nash: "I miss my sweet Nina... I wonder what she might be doing now?"


Bill: "Ugh... that woman. If only Adrian did not meddle at all.


All right, another change of plans.


After this tournament, you take care of them both. Bring Nina to me. I'll take care of Rob instead. I have to be manly and face him head on."





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


Location: Route 5, Tokyo, Japan
Time: 7 pm, the next day




The next day, the trio arrived in Japan, with Amelia and some of MI6's agents following suit.



And then, Rob takes Dennis out for a dinner.



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Rob: "I know you're still mad at me. But I am doing this because you are my beloved little brother. You may call me a bald oaf if that's what you want.

I cannot afford to lose you forever. We live separately, and losing you will be my biggest failure. I failed to save our father in the past, and I will not let the same thing happen to us.


I love you, Dennis. I love you as much as our father. You make me smile whenever we are together.

Speaking of together, we can uplift our family name in some other race. For now, we have to bring back our family together.


That's your wish all along, am I right? Your desire? Who am I to ignore it? After all...





...I'm your big brother."








End of Page 7



AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- You have seen a confirmation here for a future entry - Nina will be facing off Nash in the entry titled WILD WEST. It will be set in the USA, and it is some sort of inspired by the Bionic Woman. Nina decides to set things right, and that would be destroying Nash for good. But what Adrian does not know, is that she also plans to destroy herself after the deed is done.


And this is the only Takuma Gaiden II entry that won't have Takuma in it, let alone narrate it. I have promised myself and to you that all my GT6 fan fictions will be in this thread. I don't want to flood the Race Reports section like what I did in GT5.


- The final battle here will not be a time trial or shootout. It's a duel - Dennis vs. Rebecca. This time around, play as a hero as I will post the KTM X-Bow Street tune shortly. Besides, I'm sure you want a very stable, tuned KTM, am I right?
 
Last edited:
Page 8 - Record Breaker


Location: Rob's home, Ginza, Tokyo
Time: 10 pm


The Hatch brothers arrived home after their dinner. They had a small talk as well, about the future of their family. Rob assures Dennis that everything will be fine and be back the way it used to be.


With Dennis in the guest room and had fallen asleep, Rob heads back to the garage.





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Rob: "Dennis has yet to know how impressive the tuning his X-Bow is. There is an inspiration behind that...



He opens the door to the other part of the garage, and then...



...his X-Bow R greets his presence. He had bought it way before the tournament - using the money he earned being an agent and as well as the races from Dream Alliance.



Rob: "This car... will conquer the world of speed. And Dennis' car will make him rocket his way to stardom, regardless of the path he chose.



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Rob takes his helmet and race suit then puts them on the passenger seat. He leaves once again.



He heads to a Parking Area in Route 5. There, he sees a group of racers talking among themselves. One of them notices him, and gives a starstruck look.



Street Racer: "Are you... Jason Statham?"


Rob: "A lot of people have been asking that, but I'm afraid I am not Jason Statham. But I am thankful that you called me that. I do look a lot like him, albeit younger."


Street Racer: "Oh sorry, sir."


Rob: "Tell me, what's the fastest lap time recorded in Route 5? Do you know?"



Street Racer: "Ummmmm..."


Suddenly, as if hearing the question, Henry Rogers steps up.


Henry: "It's my creation - the WEST Corvette No. 7 C7 Corvette owned by Takanori Kanonji. It has a lap time of 1 minute and 22.9 seconds. Why? You're out to beat it?"


Rob: "I won't mind having a little competition with my teammates. I believe that makes us improve. Surely, you don't mind me having a little run with my car."


Henry: "What's that?"


Rob: "A KTM X-Bow R, I'm sure you Yanks don't like a two liter, turbocharged four-pot that only makes 515 horsepower. You hillbillies care so much about displacement. I'll just paddle along and go.


But I'll let you know, I tuned this to murder racing cars on the track, but still very usable everyday."


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Henry: "My stopwatch is out. Just go. The moment you leave, it's a warm-up, then recording will start once you cross the start line."


Rob gets some attention when he wears his race suit and then putting his helmet on.



Rob: "What? Don't you care about safety? Helmets can save lives."



He gets in and starts up the car. He leaves for the warm-up.




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Rob: "So Takanori is the king here? Don't worry though, I play fair. This car only has road-legal tires."





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Henry then starts the time the moment Rob crosses the line. The X-Bow R tops at 290 KM/H at the end of the straight before braking. It may not meet the standard, but still very quick for a car that only has 500 horsepower to play with.




Fast heel-and-toe, and then down shift, Rob spares no millisecond for mistakes. The lightweight X-Bow feels at home at the technical nature of Route 5.



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Rob: "I cannot just sit down. I am more than just an MI6 agent."




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Rob: "I am just resuming what my father started - to challenge the world. Through lap times, I shall raise eyebrows."




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The KTM records a lap time of 1 minute and 20 seconds. Henry could not believe at the result, despite the car not meeting the standard of hitting 300 KM/H at the end of the straight.



Henry: "Holy macaroni. He's really The Transporter!"





Rob returns to the PA, and all eyes are on him.



Rob: "What's with all the faces? My car is not top speed missile."



Henry: "Yo, Jason Statham! You're two seconds faster! You're The Transporter, am I right?"



Rob: "Expendable, Transporter, Handsome Rob, whatever you call me.


That lap time is lovely. Something for Takanori to work on. Anyway, I have to sleep early. Farewell, chaps. Hope I don't ruin the party."





As usual, Rob leaves the place with a smug face once again.



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



The next morning, at Rob's home.





Rob cooks breakfast. The aroma prompts Dennis to head downstairs to the kitchen.



Dennis: "Hey...."



Rob: "Oh, good morning. Have a seat. We have to eat breakfast now, as we are going to leave."



Dennis: "Where are we going?"



Rob: "Suzuka Circuit in Mie Prefecture. It's a long drive and we have to go immediately.


Oh, make sure you have your GPS app in your iPhone."



Dennis: "What car are we using? Mine?"


After eating breakfast, Rob shows Dennis his X-Bow R.


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Dennis: "Crikey! You own one too?!? We should just use this in the tournament instead!"


Rob: "Idiot. You must win using your own car. This car has a different purpose...




...to challenge the world, that is."



Dennis: "Challenge the world..."



Rob: "Even before I joined MI6, it's my lifelong plan. It's time for it to come to fruition. I shall challenge different GT Racing cars using this, even if that includes the ones from the Dream Alliance.


I want to rise too. I cannot sit down and watch."



After several hours of travel, they reach their destination. Rob is given just three laps to run. Then he asks the attendant what's the fastest lap time recorded by a GT racing car.



Attendant: "According here, the fastest is 1 minute and 54.6 seconds set by Nobuhiko Hiramoto with his Castrol TOM'S Supra."



Rob: "Dennis, you've heard that? Copy that to your phone."



Before leaving the home, Rob has already installed slick tires. He suits up and is ready to go.



Rob: "Dennis, I know you're down right now, and so I'll invigorate your spirit once again.


You'll have more confidence to yourself and your car once you see me run. Your X-Bow's setup is based on my X-Bow's. That should be a good start then."


Let's uplift our family name in the world of racing, even though we have different paths to take.



After a warm-up, Rob starts his timed run, with Dennis at the pit lane recording the time using his smartphone.




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Rob: "Nobuhiko Hiramoto, also hailed as one of the world's fastest... I shall issue a challenge to you!"






End of Page 8



AUTHOR'S NOTES:



- The second of my 2-page special today. Find out the lap time set by X-Bow R at the next page!


- The X-Bow R had Sport Soft tires for the Route 5 run. All performance modifications installed, and it has a very stable handling, a complete opposite to the trait of a fully-tuned KTM in the game on a default setup.





 
The Hiramotos and and Kanonjis will be in for a huge shock at Rob's sudden challenge. 👍
 
Page 9 - Challenging The World


Rob starts the timed run in Suzuka, attempting to beat the record time set by Nobuhiko Hiramoto - 1 minute and 54.6 seconds set by his Supra.


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Meanwhile, Dennis is wondering if...



Dennis: "Getting a lap time under 2 minutes is something that only gods can do. Knowing the Hiramoto family's experience here, it's something of a challenge for my brother.



But I have always been firm in my beliefs, that my brother will get his career back on track. And this is the start.


THIS IS HIS WAKE-UP CALL FOR THE RACING WORLD!"







Typical for a high-powered, lightweight car, the KTM shows its twitchy characteristics.


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Rob: "Don't bite. We have to do this for Dennis. Inspiration is what he needs right now."




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Rob: "I have taught Dennis a very important lesson about growing up. And it applies to his path as well. We all have to get out of our comfort zone. Suzuka is not the only race track in the world, Hiramoto family!


You could learn something from me! Make the world as your playground! Don't get stuck here!"





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Then approaching the 130R, he shifts down to 5th, enters the corner at 220 km/h without any loss in stability. Rob is very familiar with the characteristics of a lightweight car, thanks to his frequent driving of his father's Lotus Europa Special back home. And the KTM is no different for him. Steering too much can make this car spin easily.




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Rob: "Here goes..."





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Dennis is joyful when his brother set the lap time of 1 minute and 52.7 seconds.



Dennis: "Now that is Rob Hatch! I am very proud of my brother... and with that victory today, I am more confident and inspired to continue on with the championship!"




Rob returns after triumphant session. Since the lap time is also recorded by the marshals, he asks the attendant of a one, small favor.



Rob: "Put that in your official newsletter. Consider that as an official lap time. I did not just play around."




The two then leave the track and on their way home, with Rob once again displaying a smug look on his face.


Dennis: "You really are amazing. I wonder when can I be like you..."



Rob: "I appreciate that, but it is much better for you to be yourself. Even if I did say that we will uplift our family name in the world of racing, we will do it in each our own way. Only what I can do for you is to guide.


Be in your best, in your own way. Do not imitate me."



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



Location: Motoring Weekly Office, Nishi-Shinjuku, Tokyo
Time: 9 am



Oh well, with the recent withdrawal from the 2nd round, my leave for work prematurely ended. I have nothing to do, anyway, so I gotta get back to work unless Rob needs my help.

What adds insult to the injury, is that Nash won the 2nd round.


For Rob and Dennis, though, it didn't bother them. In fact, they are practicing in Tsukuba Circuit right now, for the final round.



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Takanori: "Aw, bummer!!!"



Takuma: "What's with the expression?"


Takanori: "Henry Rogers just sent me an SMS message, telling that my record time in Route 5 has been beaten!"


Takuma: "Seesh... it's a street circuit. And that's not something that will make an impact in your professional racing career."


Takanori: "But of course you'll be upset when one beats your record lap time! I've worked hard for that, especially for beating that mystery Nissan! Sorry, my little Corvette..."


Takuma: "Well, who is the person and what does he drive?"



Nobuyuki: "OH SON OF A..."


Takuma: "What's with your reaction, people?"


Nobuyuki: "The latest post in the newsletter of Suzuka Circuit's webpage states that Little Nobu's lap time has finally been broken!"


Nobuhiko: "WHAT?!?"



The three of us gather at Nobuyuki's cubicle and read the news at the internet.


Nobuyuki: "1 minute and 52.7 seconds... set by none other than...


...ROB HATCH?!? In a KTM X-Bow R!"



Takanori: "Man... you know, I think we overlooked on someone."



I can see Nobuhiko clenching his right fist, but strangely he shows a grin.



Nobuhiko: "He's right, heh. I never would have thought Rob could do such a feat."



Takuma: "He is the son of who was once the fastest racer in Europe. But I'm sure Rob is not just going to take Europe by storm...



...but the entire world. He is simply getting his career back on track, after that scandal."




Nobuhiko: "I've found another worthy opponent. Things are really starting to heat up.


Those lap times are wake-up calls!"


Takanori: "Just how fast is the X-Bow? Let me Google that up.... and there!




All X-Bow trims are powered by a 2 liter turbo 4 cylinder engine from Audi. The basic trim, called the Street, has 240 horsepower. It only weighs under 800 kilograms, so 0-100 km/h times of under 4 seconds are possible. Plus, the chassis was created in cooperation with Dallara - a leading name in racing car chassis making.


In Rob's case, it's an R. It has 300 horsepower on stock. But to be able to smash the lap time of Nobuhiko-san's Supra..."



Takuma: "...a lot of work could have been done on it. Rob is an expert on lightweight cars."



Takanori: "It might have shed a bit more weight, and most owners would up the power of their X-BOWs to 350 horsepower. But I suspect Rob took a different approach."


Takuma: "I guess I'm not wrong in recruiting Rob in our team after all. He has to prove to us that he is a very valuable asset."



The wind has suddenly changed its direction. And the way it moves... it's violent. I think I foresee a much more epic showdown...



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



Location: Rob's home, Ginza, Tokyo
Time: 9 pm



Rob is in his room, checking the internet at his computer like everyone else does in this day and age.


Suddenly, his smartphone rings, and it's Conrad on the other line.


Rob: "Sir."


Conrad: "We shall commence the raid tomorrow. It's the one you've been waiting for. Professor Bill has just arrived here in Japan, according to our intelligence unit. Reports have also flown in as well, he is confirmed to be in Yokohama, just like your mother said."


Rob: "How's Amelia?"


Conrad: "She's very well ready for this mission as well. Everything will proceed as planned."


Rob: "Glad to hear it."


Conrad: "Get some sleep. You have to be in your top form tomorrow. But I am very well aware that you always are."


Rob: "Of course. I have been waiting years for this."



Conrad: "Your hand-picked agents are ready as well."



Rob: "Very well then, all is set. Good night. See you tomorrow, sir."



After their conversation, Rob stands up and goes to the side table beside his bed. He opens the drawer, and gets a red Swiss army knife - the last birthday gift he received from his late father.




Rob: "Father..."






End of Page 9




AUTHOR'S NOTES:



- While a fully-tuned KTM X-BOW R can exceed a bit over 650 PP, Rob's X-BOW R is exactly at 650 PP during the Suzuka time attack equipped with Racing Hard tires.


- For the final battle, I shall post the tune of Dennis' X-Bow Street later on.

































 
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