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

[Niku Driver HC]

And so ends the Osaka arc... A wild, but fun trip to Kansai, with plenty of fast Mazdas and Nissans. And I was a part of the story, that's a very good extra. Now we return to the battle against the evile VGTs, for the sake of racing all around the world. Good luck with the future chapters! 👍

 

[RZQSPEED]

Its time for the brand new filler arc! MOOOORRRRE AAAAAARCS!!!

 

[RCKakashi14]

THE REAL MONSTER





The Vision Gran Turismo project begins...

Unique cars engineered without compromise, with no regards to restrictions, aiming to challenge convention.


For its first foray, a car is eager to prove it superiority in the streets - as the Ultimate Road Car. Would it be able to show its might? Or will someone step in and stop its rampage?




​

Page 1 - Spoon Fed To Perfection


Location: A Karate Dojo in Roppongi, Tokyo
Time: 10 am



Wooden dummy down... another one down. Who could be destroying them?


None other than Rob Hatch, who arrived just yesterday. Of course, he is sporting a karate gi. The dojo in question is where he used to train when he was permanently residing in Tokyo.


And then his master, named Kondo Miyagi, enters the room.


Miyagi: "Oh, it's been a while, Rob-san."


Rob: "Master Miyagi. It's been a long time I haven't seen you."


Rob bows in front of his master.



Miyagi: "I guess you're here to learn a new technique. Oh, I must've forgotten to teach it to you. Pardon my old age.


I should have taught you this at the middle of your training back then. Here, a reversal grab."


Rob: "Reversal Grab?"


Miyagi: "Basically, you parry your opponent and counter attack. Assume this position."


Miyagi demonstrates. He puts his feet apart, and then raises his right arm, with the right hand flat, on his eye level. And then his left arm is stretched all the way down to his thigh, with the left hand flat as well.


The stance is simple, so Rob easily imitates it. Miyagi then brings a wooden dummy in.


Miyagi: "Please stretch out the dummy's right leg. Let's simulate a kick."


Rob then made the dummy's right leg stretch, as if to simulate a kick. Miyagi then assumes the reversal grab, and catches the dummy's leg. He then counters by using his left elbow to hit the dummy's face, and then uses it again to crush down the leg. Finally, he uses his right hand to perform a karate chop on the neck of the dummy, bringing it down.



Rob: "Amazing! Looks really cool. A proper way of counterattack."



Miyagi: "It's also effective against a punch."



Suddenly, Takuma arrives also in his karate gi, and is surprised to see his best friend.



Takuma: "Oh.. look what we have here."



Rob: "Faffing around as usual, Takuma? Let's have a little sparring."


Takuma: "I'll kick your arse this time."



Rob: "Try."




Takuma then punches, and in a split second, Rob assumes his reversal grab stance, and manages to catch Takuma's arm. Rob smashes Takuma's cheek first with his left elbow, and then crushes down the grabbed arm still using his left elbow, and finally following it up with a karate chop on Takuma's neck using his right arm, the same as Miyagi did earlier.



Takuma: "Ah!!! Hey... that hurt."



Rob: "Still can't beat me in sparring. Sorry for that one, though. I just learned a new move today."



Rob did offer to help Takuma rise up. The two then sit on a bench first, to allow Takuma to recuperate.



Takuma: "So what brings you here again?"


Rob: "A new assignment."


Takuma: "I see. Well, I'll tell my wife to prepare the guest room for you."


Rob: "No need. It may risk your family's safety. Besides, the hotel I'm staying at is paid for by MI6."


Takuma: "Must be a tough mission, then."



Rob: "I have confirmed reports that Mauricio Salvador is currently being held captive by Kazunori Yamauchi's hired guards. Can't believe that a game developer would resort to that."



Takuma: "So your new assignment is basically saving Maria's father, huh?"



Rob: "Exactly. You take of the racing, though. I'll do the beating and the breaking."

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

Location: Kanagawa Prefecture
Time: 3 pm




An Audi quattro S1 Rally Car makes rounds on a mountain pass in Kanagawa. The said car is being driven by a rally car connoisseur.

However, little does the driver know that another car is coming at high speed...

Yuki: "Hmmmmm.... isn't that the same rally car I've driven back then? Oh well, time for a little run."



The two cars start racing, but Yuki's Spoon-tuned NSX Type R makes mincemeat of the Group B rally racer. Yuki had managed to source another NA2 NSX Type R, which could be considered as a lucky feat.

The rally car owner is just appalled by the speed of Yuki's NSX, despite the fact that he is driving an icon in rally racing.

Yuki: "Another Group B rally car beaten down. Are you a clown behind the wheel? I expect so much more."

Just like that, the rally connoisseur has briefly seen who rules the mountain roads. The NSX has disappeared from his sight, and simply could not believe at the encounter today.





End of Page 1



AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- What has Rob learned today? Basically Jun Kazama's reversal in TTT2. I love that technique, and I'm not above using it at all. Takuma has lost to Rob in martial arts once again, this time in a flash.

 

[Niku Driver HC]

Master Miyagi? I could not think anything else before a (Newtype) flash went through my head and told me "Karate Kid". Curse you, movie from a era when I wasn't even born!

Also, it seems Yuki found himself a sharp tool to handle, well, tools. And he's doing that just as well as you'd expect...

 

[RZQSPEED]

Who's driving the quattro rally car?

 

[MrUnknown]

Who's driving the quattro rally car?

Data.

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 2 - Anton's New Adventure


Location: Route 5, Tokyo
Time: 10 pm



No traffic.... a perfect opportunity to run. Perfect opportunity to those who have the means. Some of the city's elite, choose to run their steed at night, a way relieving stress after a hard day of work.


However, there is one car in particular car that stands out among them...

Anton: "Awwww.... aren't there faster ones around?"

Meet Anton Volkov. Judging from the car he's driving, he is a privileged member of Kazunori Yamauchi's Vision Gran Turismo project. He has a twin named Abram, currently racing in Europe. The two could be said to be as close as the Kanonji twins.

Anton: "This used to be fun. But not anymore. I think I find no one faster in Tokyo's highways."

Anton: "But on the other hand, this car proves its worth in the task given to me. It's proving itself to be the ultimate street car."

Anton: "Gotta make my stay here worthwhile. I have to find someplace fun!"

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


​

Location: Kanagawa Prefecture
Time: 3 pm, the next day



Anton is once again paying a visit to a mountain pass he passed by a few days ago. Having gotten over the thrills of racing in the highways, he might as well give it a try here...

Anton: "It's quite beautiful here. The scenery, and the twisty roads all add up to the beauty!"

Anton: "Now... I assume there will be racers to play with here. A racing anime said so. Perhaps this could also be the monster of the hills. Let's see. Time to add this in my blog tonight."


And indeed it does prove to be a monster. With a 5.5 liter twin turbo V8 producing 600 horsepower, it should shift its way through the competition.

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


​

Location: Keio Plaza Hotel, Shinjuku, Japan
Time: 5 pm



Rob just got up from his nap, as he is about to head to Takuma's home to have dinner with his family. Suddenly, his phone rings, it turns out that Conrad is on the other line.



Rob: "Good morning, sir."


Conrad: "Good morning from London, that is. I called to confirm that the reports are accurate. Mauricio Salvador is in Tokyo, being escorted by a security group organized by Kazunori Yamauchi. Some of our agents had seen him, and it's confirmed that he is a captive. We do not have any idea, though, on how is he being handled."



Rob: "So I've got to infiltrate as well."



Conrad: "Correct. We have no choice but to send you on this, since you also specialize in both armed and unarmed combat."




Rob: "It's no big deal for me. A mission is a mission."



Conrad: "Take care of yourself. Our agents will inform you should everything surface. Keep your communication open."




The call has ended. Rob checks his traveling bag, contained with dangerous weapons, and even takes out a knife that he uses in melee combat. So far so good, no lacking items. He zips it back and then places it in the cabinet.

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

Half an hour later, he makes it to Takuma's residence by train. He sees his best friend taking out the trash from the mochi shop.



Rob: "Nice to see you doing hard work."


Takuma: "Oh there you are. And for the record, I even clean toilets."


Rob: "I thought you're such a lazy oaf."



Suddenly, Yuki arrives. Takuma could do nothing but look at the NSX with awe.

Yuki: "Oh, good evening. I'm just here to buy some mochi before I go home."



Takuma: "You do not make me jealous, Yuki. Just do not. It's impossible for me to own an NSX, let alone a Type R."



Yuki: "Any used NSX is fine. It's much more reliable than an FD, you know?"


Takuma: "Dammit... but you're right. Its said that they still run like new even after 100,000 kilometers. Is that your second NSX?"


Yuki: "Yep. I'm just very lucky to find another Type R. You should have acted upon it before I did. Hehe."


Rob: "Looks an impressive bit of kit. NSXs are also quite rare in the UK. So where do you plan on racing it?"


Yuki: "In the mountains, of course."



Takuma: "Right. Right. Hey, my mother is waiting for you inside. There she is, she's calling for you."



The young man enters the shop, gleefully greeting his aunt. The two best friends just look at the NSX.




Rob: "Mountains, he said."


Takuma: "Oh don't be fooled by his innocent looks. He is the king of the hill as we speak."



Rob: "Really? Never really got to know this kid for long. He's... bizarre."




End of Page 2



AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- The hotel mentioned, where Rob stays, is actually the place where I stay whenever I go to Japan. It's nearby Shinjuku's stores (including a cluster of Yodobashi Camera stores selling gadgets and toys) and the train station.

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 3 - On Target



Location: Sumida, Tokyo
Time: 2 pm, the next day



Anton has stopped by a convenience store to get a drink. His car obviously attracts the attention of the cashier, but Anton is used to it and just carried on. He looks at the refrigerated drinks, and takes time to choose.



Moments later, Yuki also comes in, due to an errand by his colleague in work. He gets some chips and sandwiches to be reheated.

However, the two suddenly bumped on to each other when they're about to queue up the line for the cashier, prompting Yuki to pick up the items he had dropped.


Anton: "Sorry. Gomennasai."


Yuki: "It's okay. You go first."



Anton gets to check out first. And then he hurries outside and gets in his car, then set off. Yuki and the cashier take a brief moment to look at the car leaving.

Cashier: "Such a good-looking car, sir. That man and his car attracted some photographers the moment he entered this store."



Yuki: "It does look out of the ordinary."



Cashier: "Okay, sir... 500 yen for all."



Yuki: "Shoot... I only have 10000 yen bills. Do you have change for this?"



Cashier: "Sure. Please wait for a moment for your change."


While the cashier sorts out the change, Yuki looks back at the empty space where Anton's car had parked.




Yuki: "That car... it doesn't look like a production specification road car. Could it be one of the Vision GT cars the team is talking about? It looks way too bizarre to be a sports car."

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


​

Location: Kanagawa Prefecture
Time: 5:30 pm

Anton has challenged some of the local racers, even some own supercars. Would it be more fun racing in the hills?

Anton: "These racers may be polite, but they do have their pride to protect! And with the narrow road, they block as much as they can."

Anton: "This is interesting. Perhaps the element of danger adds to the amount of fun on the mountain roads!"

He had overtaken everyone in a flash. But of course, his love for Japan still shows, as he pulls over, never to leave the locals behind.


They all exit their cars, and Anton shows a thumbs up.



Anton: "That was a good run. And it's fun, even though it can get scary at times."


458 Driver: "Your car is very fast. What is that Mercedes model?"


Anton: "The AMG Vision Gran Turismo! It's the next big thing as the ultimate street car! Built with freedom, no regards to the current restrictions. It won't be fun if it's just a conventional sports car, right?


Soon enough, it shall be the monster that will be feared in the streets!"



458 Driver: "Good luck beating the racer who rules the hills. His car is not something you'd expect."


Anton: "Oh, really? Someone is reigning the hills? I would want to meet that racer someday."


458 Driver: "Keep asking the other locals here. I haven't met him personally, I just heard of it. But there are a plenty of them talking about that person."



Anton: "I'll keep coming back here when I can, and see if I can meet that guy. He should be fun to race with.

Well, I gotta go now! I have anime to watch. See ya!"


Upon Anton's departure, the GT-R driver approaches the 458 driver.


GT-R Driver: "Wow, that foreigner is just too ambitious. He thinks it's fun to race that kid? He'll change his view on life after racing that kid. I'm sure of it."

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

​

Location: Yuki's home, Shibuya, Tokyo
Time: 7 pm



Yuki has finally arrived home after a hard day of work. He placed a bag of groceries on the kitchen table, as he is to try out a new recipe. With no one around to help him, he has no choice but to do everything, from chopping right until serving.


He has been living alone in Tokyo for years, the moment his mentor and father figure, Tatsuru Ichishima, provided him that home.



Yuki: "Okay... it's time to prepare the deep frier. Katsudon curry rice for tonight. For the curry, I need to chop first the carrots and the potatoes. Man... this is such a hard task."




After an hour, Yuki has finally been able to finish the recipe, albeit leaving the kitchen messy. He doesn't mind it at all, knowing that he is alone and he knows how to clean his home by himself.



Yuki: "Itadakimasu.."


Yuki breaks the chopsticks and starts to eat. Then instead of turning on the television for the news, he suddenly has deep thoughts...




Yuki: "I still haven't forgotten it... The moment that car passed by, and beat my course record."

Yuki: "The Vision GT is nothing more than a distraction... I have something more important to work on."

Yuki: "Which is, I cannot rest... until I beat HIM! I'll make sure that I'll crush his record! I AM THE KING OF THE HILL. I AM THE ORIGINAL SLASHER!"




End of Page 3

 

[AudiMan2011]

Damn, Rob's really sparked the determination in all the Kanonjis.

 

[Niku Driver HC]

Damn, Rob's really sparked the determination in all the Kanonjis.

Call it the "Haitch Factor"; everyone and everything Rob touches becomes either fired up with determination or just burns out completely...

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 4 - Provocation






Location: Kanagawa Prefecture
Time: 4:30 pm, the next day


Yuki and Nobuhiko met up in Tokyo and decided to have a little run at the outskirts before they can meet up with the rest of their teammates for dinner. The latter takes out his father's F40 for spin, which has been repainted back to its original color under request.

However, Yuki is at the helm. The young driver enjoys the ferocity of the legendary supercar, without any driving aids at all.


Yuki: "Amazing! No wonder many people love this car, Senpai!"

Yuki: "This immense acceleration out of the corners, it's just beastly! And this sounds better than my NSX, I admit."


Nobuhiko: "I'm amazed that you managed to grasp this car."


Yuki: "Well, I'm familiar with this road, anyway, which makes me focus on the car's abilities even more."

Yuki: "Simply breathtaking!"



Nobuhiko: "Uhhh... sorry to interrupt, but I'm thirsty. Can we pull over at a nearby convenience store?"



Yuki: "Oh sure."




They pulled over, and then the two bought their refreshments.



Yuki: "Aaaaahhhh... all this driving made us thirsty!"


Nobuhiko: "It's always fun to drive a car like the F40. For one moment, there is nothing restricting it."


However, they hear a loud grumbling exhaust sound. It turns out to be Anton, seemingly having the same purpose as the two.

Yuki: "That car again..."


Nobuhiko: "Huh? And those rims are oversized."



The gullwing door opens, Anton heads out, and is surprised to see the two. He then takes out his tablet, and looks at the photos of the members of Dream Alliance.



Anton: "Waaaaahhhh! The Dream Alliance! Don't panic... don't panic! Just read the note."


He goes to the Notes app, and reads something out loud.



Anton: "According to Kazunori-san - "Whenever you see someone from Dream Alliance, engage them at your fullest. Take them seriously." - You know, Kazunori-san can sometimes be a killjoy. Oh, by the way, my name is Anton Volkov from Russia. And I shall engage you to a showdown! Wait, no..."



Nobuhiko: "Excuse me, are you from the Vision Gran Turismo project? Your car gives us a message."


Anton: "Oh yes! Hehehehehe... soon enough you'll tremble in fear before me and my car! Okay, that wasn't scary. I'm not a horror actor, am I?"


Nobuhiko: "What do you want? A showdown?"


Anton: "Well, I'm kinda bored taking out supercars using this, so instead I intend to challenge the tuned domestic machines! I love them as much as I love this country. I feel that they're so much better. All hard work poured into those machines, the quality of the aftermarket parts... everything! They're so much interesting, and fun too!"



Nobuhiko: "Get to the point."



Anton: "Awwww man... why so serious? Oh all right. I have heard that a light blue Mazda RX-7 has made shockwaves in Osaka. I want to test this car's mettle against it. In short, I want to engage in a duel straight against Takuma Kanonji! That car is the so-called the "Touge Monster", according to the Hot Version videos I watch."



Nobuhiko: "All right then. I'll make sure to send the message to him. Let me tell you, he's not going to be fun to deal with."


Anton: "Really? And here I am thinking I'm having fun."


Yuki could only look at the Russian seriously, building his contempt...



Anton: "But first, though... I have to see who's the fastest on the mountain roads."



Yuki: "You already have the answer. It's that Touge Monster FD3S you just mentioned."



Anton: "Wait, who are you? You are not in the pictures. Perhaps I wasn't updated..."



Yuki then clenches his fist.



Anton: "Oh well, kiddo. You might be a big fan for you to hang out with... *looks at the tablet once again* Nobuhiko Hiramoto.


So I guess it's settled, then. Tell Takuma that he must scared, as he is yet to see a real monster!"



Nobuhiko: "We'll relay everything, don't worry."


Anton: "Whew... I thought there will be an all-out tension. Gotta go inside the store and grab myself a drink. See ya!"



Nobuhiko and Yuki get back in the F40 and leave. Yuki just looks at the window as Nobuhiko drives along, back to Tokyo.



Nobuhiko: "You know, you could have stood up and take Takuma-san's place instead. You very well know how he loathes street racing."


The cheerful mood of Yuki instantly dispersed when Anton arrived. He's now serious, and is somehow upset that he got underestimated.



Yuki: "I have a plan. I will surprise that Anton guy. You know how some people hate kids?"


Nobuhiko: "What are you talking about?"


Yuki: "He sees me as a kid, am I right? Then I'll act like one. An annoying kid. Then he'll just see who the real monster is."



Nobuhiko shows a smile.



Nobuhiko: "Sounds like a good plan."

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

​

Location: A hot pot restaurant in Shinjuku, Tokyo
Time: 7 pm



Takuma: "What?!?"


Takuma just dropped his meat on the boiling hot pot.



Yuki: "Well, you're being called out. Might as well show up."



Takuma: "Ugh... another touge street race. You all know how I hate street racing, right?"


Takanori: "Yes, yes. We're all aware!"



Nobuhiko: "Out of all of us, you're the one he's very much interested in. He's like charging through the DMZ of Korea."



Nobuyuki: "Hang on a minute, where's Rob-san?"


Takuma: "I'm afraid he's in an "operation". Another excuse to be badass."



Yuki: "But Takuma, I have a plan. You very well know how I am well-versed in the touge."



Takuma: "Heh. Of course."



Yuki: "Besides, let me be the first person sending the wake-up call to Kaz."



Takanori: "Sounds like a good plan!"




Then Takanori just puts all of his raw meat from his plate on to the boiling pot.

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


​

Location: A large villa in Yokohama
Time: 7 pm




Rob steps out of his Range Rover Evoque upon arriving at the said location. Then he opens the boot, and puts a briefcase up to open it. It contains sniper rifle parts, and quickly assembles it.

And then his sidekick, Mark, arrives.



Rob: "Oh for the love of..."


Mark: "Rob! I'm here for backup."


Rob: "You always want the action, you oafish opportunist."



Mark: "Hey! As if you can do everything alone!"


Rob: "Just be quiet. You see those guards?"



Mark: "Yeah, and we can't just get past them."



Rob: "I'll take care of them, and you'll save Mauricio."



Mark: "Roger."




Rob: "But first..."



The two hide behind the bushes. Rob assumes the sniping position, laying down on the ground. Being a sharpshooter, he aims first on the smallest objects, the cameras. He shoots them down. Then just before the guard could even react, he was shot down as well. And another... then another one. The coast got clear.



Rob: "Move in."



He left his sniper behind, and they march onwards. Before Mark could even load his gun, Rob already threw knives to the guards that come charging at them, each knife hitting their hearts.



Rob: "From this point on, we'll separate. Mauricio is your priority. We'll have a rendezvous at my car, got it?"



Mark: "Copy that."




The two then part ways. As usual, Rob isn't really intimidated at what's coming to him. His combat experience is second to none.


He is suddenly stopped on his tracks upon entering a large room, as he is surrounded by a security force armed with Samurai swords. Rob is unarmed, on the other hand...



Rob: "Quite a party. Such shiny pieces of metal."



Then Rob assumes a karate stance. This will be a fight night...





End of Page 4

 

[Niku Driver HC]

Oh Anton, what a shy fellow you are! Makes him kinda likable though...

And now for a special edition of "Rob Haitch: Badass"!

 

[MrUnknown]

Silly Anton.

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 5 - The Real Meaning of Fun




Tension is rising, as the guards brandish their Katanas on to Rob, preparing to strike. Rob, meanwhile, keeps his cool, and looks from left to right while assuming a karate stance.


Then, with no wasted moment, one of them rush at Rob. However, Rob manages to side step and caught the man's hand holding the katana, and then knocks his opponent out by using his knee to break the ribcage and then hits the man's neck using a karate chop.

With that, Rob manages to get the sword, and then thrusts it down on to that opponent's back. He takes it up, and now aims it to the rest, assuming a sword guard stance.


Another one strikes, only his right hand to be mutilated by Rob, and then beheaded. All hell went loose, as the rest of them come at Rob.


Rob makes a slash and then keeps on doing it, resulting his opponents being either cut down or totally mutilated. Their blood have spilled right on his face.


Meanwhile, Mark has managed to reach the room where Mauricio is held upstairs. He simply kicks it open and quickly shoots the captors down.


Mauricio: "Who are you?!?"


Mark: "I'm from the MI6. This is a rescue mission. We must hurry!"


The two then make their way to the staircase, but of course it's not an easy flight out. Mark just goes behind Mauricio and then picks another handgun from his pocket, and performs a Trigger Happy to shoot down the men chasing them.



Back to the sword fight, Rob takes advantage of a split second given to him by picking up another sword. The tables have turned, as he is now wielding two samurai swords.



Rob: "I'm fond of butchering."


Outnumbered, the men kept on rushing, but Rob simply slices them in halves. It's a gruesome moment, but it had to be done. The once magnificent wooden floor has now turned into an ocean of blood.


Mark and Mauricio finally meet up with Rob, the former just appalled at what he saw.



Mark: "You've got to be kidding me."


Suddenly, one of the guards that got hit by Rob's knife earlier comes points a gun at Rob.


Mark: "Rob! Behind you!"


The guard pulls the trigger, and then Rob throws one of the swords. The samurai sword pierces through the guard, but as for Rob...



...he got shot at the chest.



Mark: "ROB!!!"




Rob falls down, but Mark rushes to catch him. His partner had gone unconscious...




Mauricio: "Let's bring him to the hospital. Hurry!"

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


​

Location: Tokyo General Hospital
Time: 8 pm


The doctors have managed to take the bullet out of Rob's chest, and it turns out that it's nearby his heart. Rob lays like a vegetable on a bed in the ICU, with Mark and Mauricio watching.



Mark: "Oh lord... Jenny will not like this at all."


Mauricio: "At least you must let her know. The plus side is that he'll be out of danger. You have to keep hoping."


Mark gets his phone, calls up Rob's residence in London.




Meanwhile, in Takuma's residence, Takuma is helping his wife wash the dishes, while promising to catch up on Little Ben on his assignment afterwards.



Suddenly, a telephone rings. Takuma, who is nearby, picks it up.


Takuma: "Hello?"


It turns out to be Jenny, who is sobbing."


Takuma: "Jenny? What's wrong?!?"


Jenny: "Please... go check on Rob. I can't even eat lunch because of what happened to him."


Takuma: "What happened?!?"


Jenny: "He got shot... and is clinging on his life. He even promised before that our child will see him!"


Takuma: "Okay. Okay... where is he?"


Jenny: "At the Tokyo General Hospital, his partner just called me up. Please hurry and let me know everything!"



Takuma: "I'm right on it. And don't worry, your child will see his father."



Takuma then gets his coat and keys to his FD.



Kokoro: "Where are you going?"



Takuma: "To the hospital. Rob just got shot. I'll be back immediately! Tell Little Ben I just got out!"

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


​

Takuma manages to locate the room where Rob is. He sees Mark worrying about his partner, and Mauricio just sitting on the bench.


Takuma: "Is he okay?"


Mark: "He hasn't awakened yet. I can't afford to lose my buddy in the office. I just can't."


Mauricio: "Do you think Kazunori Yamauchi would resort to this? Would he even go this far for his ambition? Look at me, I got captured and even had guards watching over me. And now it had turned into a bloodbath. What was once just an ambition of challenging the conventions of car manufacturing and performance, has transformed into senseless violence."



Takuma: "I am not going to just stand here and watch my teammate and best friend cling on to his life."


Suddenly, and what could be considered a miracle, Rob finally awakens after a brief moment of being lifeless.



Mark: "Rob!"


Rob: "Where am I?"


Takuma: "At the hospital, of course. Your wife is worried sick about you right now."


Rob: "Agh.... oooh... Why all the three of you worry so much? Being shot is part of my job description."


Mark: "But dying isn't!"


Rob: "How about you, Mauricio?"



Mauricio: "I am just fine. No need to worry about me."


Mark: "I just cannot believe that the Vision Gran Turismo project would be this extreme."


Mauricio: "It really isn't, you know? All the other car engineers who got abducted are taken care of nicely by Kazunori himself. He promised to set them free after the project is complete. I was just so vocal that he even hired guards to watch me over in a villa he arranged.


He is such a gentle person, but his ambition burns really strong, that he can resort to do this to me."



Takuma: "Mauricio, we, the Dream Alliance, had sworn to perform this moral obligation of stopping this large scale project. Those cars bring nothing but bad luck to anyone in the racing world. They will just poison the waters thanks to their defying of regulations.

I know that, because I once belonged in a team that was overpowered, and criticized by many. And the experience from that will definitely be helpful for me to stop it."



Rob: "He's right, old man. Leave this to us. Maria is worrying so much about you right now."


Mauricio: "I will come home. Definitely. But I cannot just sit still.


I will help you stop Kazunori. I once designed those cars, so I know how to deal with every one of those."

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

Location: Kanagawa Prefecture
Time: 3 pm, two days later.





I'm enraged... I'M VERY ENRAGED. And no, this is serious, so no fighting bull mooing for now.

Fulfilling your ambition is one thing, but going as far as endangering other lives is another story. You have gone nuts, Kazunori!


And now, it's time for us to retaliate, and show what we really are capable of. You can put bullets as much as you want, but our dreams can never be shot down!

Yuki's plan will proceed, as he called up that he'll follow suit, for the surprise to take effect.

Moments later, the Hiramoto brothers have arrived. Now, where's that Anton guy?



Nobuhiko: "Where's that funky Mercedes?"


Nobuyuki: "Funky, huh?"



And here it is. It looks almost the same as the black one I saw... perhaps Mauricio made two of them?

Our opponent gets out, but suddenly got freaked out.


Anton: "Whoa.... there's tension already. And what's with that look? Are you going to kill me?"


Takuma: "Do not worry, we are just serious in crushing you and Kazunori's ambition. You almost took a life of one of our teammates. We will not let this pass."


Anton: "Actually... I was the one who requested to have a security service on that Mauricio guy. It's just more fun to have someone like him to be kept under watch, as it's fun to get the treasure with so much effort!"


Takuma: "Fun? You call bloodshed fun?"


Anton: "Hey, they're just doing their job, and they did not die in vain."


Takuma: "Have you even stopped and looked at Kazunori and his ambition? Would he ever approve of such acts?"


Anton: "Stop being such a teacher! You're no fun at all!"


Takuma: "Then you don't deserve to race me at all. I don't race dishonorable beings."



Anton: "Awwww.... I want to make this worthwhile, by beating YOU! The top racer of the team!"

Takuma: "I'm afraid you really have to go through the fastest racer of the hills. And it's not me..."



Anton: "Then who?"


At long last, Yuki arrived. His NSX arrived like a boss.


Takuma: "Him."



Yuki: "I'll be your opponent for today."



Anton: "Wait... aren't you...? You!"


Yuki: "I rule the mountain roads."


Anton: "Hang on a minute there, kid. You just got your license, am I right?"


Yuki: "That's true, but I have started driving since middle school, at exactly 12 years old."


Anton: "Kids these days love to claim stuff."


Yuki: "I don't expect you to believe it, but kids do love having fun. Do not worry, I'm giving it to you.


In fact, I shall show you the real meaning of fun."



Takuma: "So, both of you shall get in line and let's get this over with."



The race will start in a moment. I'll do the countdown.


I trust you on this, Yuki. I'm very confident that you'll win this, and send a wake up call to Kazunori!

Takuma: "We'll start in... 3... 2... 1... GO!!!"



(Background Music starts here)



Whoa... that Mercedes took off like a bullet off the line! It's not even 4WD, as I have seen traces of wheelspin!

Yuki: "You've soiled my territory, and I'll make sure I'll soil you back. You do not just step in this place and take the throne for yourself. And..."

Yuki: "...I'll make sure you'll regret meeting me, ever!"




End of Page 5

 

[MrUnknown]

[Vodka Intensefies]

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 6 - Evil Grin





Location: Tokyo General Hospital
Time: 3 pm




Rob has just finished eating the soup the nurse brought in. His recovery is astounding, to think he can perform such act easily after being shot.


Mark is watching a football game, on the other hand. And then Mauricio enters the room.



Mauricio: "Oh good afternoon. I just want to check up on you."


Rob: "You went here all alone?"




Mauricio: "It may be inconvenient that some of your agents are escorting me, but I think it is necessary. I don't want to return to Kaz."




Mark: "That's what they're paid for, of course."



Mauricio: "The most important thing is that you are making a speedy recovery."



Rob: "Since you're here anyway, I want to take this opportunity to ask a multitude of questions."



Mauricio: "I'm prepared for those. I knew that you would ask. It's part of your job, am I right?"



Rob: "Very well then. How did Kazunori treat you when you were captive? I have already known what happened to you back then, thanks to your daughter's testimony. I just have to ask questions about your captivity."



Mauricio: "He would speak as if he didn't abduct me at all. He still has this uplifting persona, despite the fact that he did abduct me, and didn't even instill threats nor pressure to me at all. He believes that a free mind is the best mind. Hence, he gave me the liberty of time to draw all those designs."



Rob: "Are you aware that he's after your sketches hidden in your Aston Martin? You know, one of his men was sent after for those, but your daughter and I thwarted him."




Mauricio: "I was aware. I did everything I could to hide it before I got captured, and the best place to do it is in that car, which ironically, drew even a lot of attention and intrigue from Kaz. I am thankful that you helped my daughter for that."





Rob: "Surely there is a way on how to stop him."





Mauricio: "A design, no matter how intricate nor purposeful it may be, always has its flaws. Nothing is perfect after all. Those cars I've designed obviously have their weaknesses. You have already countered them, even way back Professor Murray took charge of the project.


Nothing beats the dedication and determination coming from a person. Not even the most aerodynamic nor the most powerful car can topple a person's conviction. That is why I became an avid follower of your team, of course in discreet. You've toppled everything that stood in your way in your conquest.

So there is a reason for me to believe, that you can stop this. I am placing all my hopes into you. But you also have to make the racing world be aware of what is currently going on. You have to wake it up."




Rob: "Thank you, for entrusting us."




Mauricio: "There's something you must know. I let one of the engineers escape, as he had a talk with me while consulting his ideas with my design. He is currently working with your team, and offer whatever aid you need in order to stop the Vision GT Project.


In short, one of my designs has made it in your team!"



Rob shows a clear expression of shock from his face, something that rarely happens to him.

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

Location: Kanagawa Prefecture




I place my trust in you, Yuki Kanonji. I'm confident with that, having witnessed your true colors back then. Show no mercy, considering what Kazunori done to one of us. Rob almost sacrificed his life for this!



(Background Music starts here)

And knowing the NSX's capabilities, there's no reason why would you lose! I'm really jealous of Yuki owning one of my favorite cars in the world!

Yuki: "Not bad, for something that has a lot of power. You know how to control such car."

Anton: "Ooooh... you're not the typical racer I encounter. You are still right on my tail."

Yuki: "I'll make you regret making fun of me. But do not worry, I want to have fun too."

After another set of corners, which the NSX took advantage of, Yuki puts his foot totally hard on the accelerator.


Yuki: "Now it's my turn to have fun. What's more fun than..."

Yuki shows briefly an evil grin.



Yuki: "...having to experience on how it feels closer to death!"


During cornering, Yuki aims at the AMG VGT's rear, and gives a tap, as a sign that his game has just started.



Anton: "What the...?!? HEY!!!"

Yuki: "This is my playground, idiot! Play right! Slides or swings are not even safe to use either!"

Anton: "Man... are they really upset at what happened to one of their teammates? I guess Kazunori-san is right about taking them seriously after all."




What was once just a fun match turned out to be serious. No... more than serious, inclining more on to a life-and-death scenario.


Yuki will surely reveal his fangs, and will definitely show how dangerous this game can be.




End of Page 6

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 7 - The War Begins...



Yuki begins his charge. He will demonstrate his true capabilities for a bit, just to send a message to the Vision Gran Turismo Project.

Anton: "I can't get away from him. I have to avoid his next attacks! I might... die!"



(Background Music)



Yuki goes on full-throttle, at the high speed corner, where the NSX truly shines.

The NSX closes in, and Yuki shows no mercy. His counterattack begins...


Yuki: "I was nicknamed "Samui"... because I'm a cold-blooded punk behind the wheel!"

Anton: "Shoot! Understeer! And he's here! He's closing in my side! Don't hit me!!!"

It's futile... and it may seem that Yuki intends to take Anton out.


Anton: "Eeeeeeek!!!"


Yuki: "OUT OF MY LINE, IDIOT!"

It just turns out to be a simple application of "Out-In-Out" cornering method. Nothing more, nothing less. But that was misinterpreted by Anton.


Luckily for him, however, he missed the concrete barrier.

Anton: "Whew... that was close. This kid has gone mad!"



However, Anton takes advantage of the AMG VGT's power. It easily closes in to the NSX, and then it's time for braking...


Anton: "Hey, that doesn't mean the fun ends! I'm still right here!"

But high speed turns favor the NSX more. The AMG VGT sees itself going out of the corner.



Anton: "I can't turn further!"

Yuki: "Every street racer here knows very well not to tackle this corner foolishly."



Yuki's point proves itself, as Anton's car hits the wall.




Anton: "Aaaaaaaaaaaahhhh!!! No!!! I don't want to die!!!"

And then the Merc lost control...

Yuki: "What an idiot. Not everything in life is fun."


And to further solidify his cold-heartedness, Yuki decides to leave his opponent behind.

Yuki: "This is only the beginning... of our war. And I'm ready to take all those Vision GT cars down!"





Meanwhile, Anton moves on, albeit his car having scratches.

Anton: "That kid... is a MONSTER! I was wrong... Look at how he played with my life for a bit."










Back up in the summit, Nobuhiko receives a call from one of his friends at the base of the hill.



Nobuhiko: "Is that so? I see..."


Upon putting back his phone in his pocket, Nobuhiko shows a smile.



Nobuhiko: "Let's go. Yuki-kun just passed by the base of the hill.... alone."

Nobuyuki: "Wait... what happened to his opponent?"



Takuma: "I presumed that he crashed. But I don't care what happens to that Mercedes. Let's meet Yuki."





Yuki has stopped at the convenience store, as per Nobuhiko's request. However, Anton has stopped by too.

Anton: "Hey! You almost killed me there! Where's the fun in that?"


Yuki: "I'm just doing what I'm supposed to do... to win."



Anton: "What?!? Hey, you even forced my car to the ditch when you overtook me!"



Yuki: "Sigh... it's just annoying when no one believes in kids. What I did is just a simple racing technique called "Out-In-Out" method." Surely you're aware of that. It's just that you don't know which line to take."



Anton: "That's just ridiculous!"



Yuki: "You think it's fun to race in the hills? Don't mock me, nor the rally drivers. Not everything in life are all smiles and sunshine. You just have to face reality. And the reality shouts that you suck. Is this really what the Vision Gran Turismo project can offer?"



Then Yuki's teammates arrive, Anton briefly looks at the arrival of their cars.



Takuma: "Bitter much? Leave him alone, Anton."


Anton: "He almost killed me!"


Takuma: "I could have done the same to you, idiot. Real racers put pressure on to each other, never letting go of their opponents! Yuki has mastered each and every mountain pass in Japan, so you cannot afford messing around and have the "fun" you want.


You are to take us seriously, but you failed to do so. And that resulted to your defeat.


Since you're still alive, tell that old man Kazunori that we will kick his arse. And when that happens, we'll savor it, and we're not going to regret it one bit!"




End of Page 7




AUTHOR'S NOTES:





- Another story tip I can share is the photo editing. All photos seen here are edited via Adobe Photoshop CS6. Its features are worth trying. Of course, there are Photoshop tips and tricks all over the internet.

 

[AudiMan2011]

Game over for Anton.

 

[Niku Driver HC]

And down goes the first member of Kaz's VGT project. Talk about teaching Anton a lesson, Yuki...

 

[RZQSPEED]

quoting:

Little Mice: GAME OVER!!!

Anton, GAME OVER!!!

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 8 - Comeback Plan


Location: Ascari Race Resort, Spain
Time: 3 pm



An FIA-sanctioned road car race has been organized, and of course Dream Alliance has to represent. Owen is chosen once again. However, instead of piloting his proven Lotus Evora...

He instead picked his brand-new KTM X-Bow as his weapon of choice, after having a sensational drive from Rob's X-Bow R.



In the pit lane, his teammates are watching - Maria and Nigel. They have high hopes for this...

Maria: "Wow... Owen has so much potential."


Nigel: "Mr. Rob Hatch has drilled everything on to Mr. Owen. It is to be expected that he reaches that potential."

Maria: "But something is off about Owen, though. He's... too reserved, especially when he's around women."


Nigel: "What are you implying?"



Maria: "He's too shy, especially when I'm trying to converse with him. I mean, I am not going to devour him, am I?"


Nigel: "Well, maybe because he just got to know you. I think you should start with a light conversation, and then eventually he'll be comfortable."

The race has ended, with Owen leaving a significant gap from his opponents.


Nigel: "Oh look! He crossed the finish line first!"


Maria: "Since he won, maybe I shall start by treating him dinner. Though... it's a man's job."



Owen has returned after the victory lap. Maria applauds as Owen gets off his car.



Maria: "You did it! You're such an amazing racer!"


Owen: "Thanks, Maria. I just gave my all."


Maria: "Oh really? You don't seem to struggle back there."


Owen: "Well... the opponents are in much faster supercars, so..."



Maria: "Stop being humble for once! Savor the moment! Victory is victory."



Owen: "Yeah... you're probably right."


Owen simply walks away and gets refreshments from the van. Maria follows him as well.


Maria: "Can you get a bottle of orange juice in there?"


Owen: "Yeah... sure."


He gets Maria's bottle of juice from the refrigerator. But Owen quickly looks away after giving it to her, as he is rather too shy to face Maria.


Maria: "Hey... let's talk a bit more."


Owen: "Um... uhhh.... sure."



Maria: "You know, I may be a brave woman, but I'm also gentle. So relax, we can talk whenever you please. You didn't even tell everything about yourself, except your name and where you live."


Owen: "Ehehehehehe.... well, it's just that I don't want to ruin a conversation when I talk to a woman. I may utter offensive thoughts..."


Maria: "It's all okay. We're human beings. It's just normal for us to socialize, am I right? Even if it is the opposite sex."


Owen: "Hmmmm.... well, where should we start, then?"


Maria: "Tell me everything about yourself. We have all day."


Owen: *gulps* "Uh... okay. I'm just.. new to racing, and all..."


Maria: "That's a good start. You are new to racing indeed, as I haven't heard of your name until you entered this team."


He turned his head around to see the crew packing up, and when he focuses back to Maria, his eyes have once again seen Maria's bosoms first. But Owen quickly looks at her radiant smiling face.


Owen: "Ummmm.... uhhh..."


Maria: "Ahahahahahahahaha! Hey, just calm down. It's not that I'm your boss or something. We're teammates, but more importantly, friends. You can open up to me whenever you want to. Mature men know how to speak their minds."


And once again, Owen stirs up a conversation, having gathered enough courage...

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

​

Location: Tokyo General Hospital
Time: 11 pm



Jenny has arrived at the morning and immediately headed to the hospital to check on Rob. She stays in the room for the entire day, talking about their future.


And when night has fallen, she prepares her coat and her bag, ready to depart and head back to the hotel.



Rob: "Jenny.... I'm so sorry."


Jenny: "How many times have you apologized today? I have already forgiven you. And I understand your nature of work already, even after we broke up before."



Rob: "I'm not strong enough to hold this promise. But at least..."



Jenny: "Stop being emotional, Rob. It's not like you. And it's not sexy."


Rob just giggled at the thought.


Rob: "Right."



Jenny: "I should get back now. It's getting late. I'll go back here tomorrow morning to facilitate your release."


Rob: "Okay then. Take care."




The next morning, Jenny has returned to the hospital as planned, but she is surprised by the presence of Takuma upon entering the room.



Jenny: "Takuma!"



Takuma: "How's my lovely cousin?"


They have a brief moment of hugging each other.




Jenny: "As usual, doing fine. And soon enough, your best friend and I will tie the knot."



Takuma: "Yeah. And Rob just nailed it."




Jenny: "I expect your presence in our wedding day. Or else, I am going to spill acid on to your face."




Takuma: "Oh Jenny... scary as usual."




Rob: "I can count her on that. Oh Jenny, can you please leave Takuma and I for a moment? It's a manly talk."



Jenny: "While I'm at it, I'll arrange your release and pay the bills."



Jenny heads outside as requested.




Rob: "Never realized that I'll arrive at this crucial moment in life, which is settling down."



Takuma: "Being a father can be fun, but at the same time difficult."



Rob: "Don't worry, I have an idea how, since I spent most of my time with father back then. I know how loving he truly was.


Takuma, I'm very much ready for this. I am a fighter, like you. And soon, a father."



Takuma: "From here on, you can't afford to mess up. You definitely want to see your kid alive. I shed a tear when I found out you were in the ICU."



Rob: "You did? Oh shoot... I could have captured it with my camera and post it in social media."



Takuma: "Heh. You can't."



Rob: "I'll make you cry soon enough. And remember this, Takuma...



...I'll never allow myself to lose to you again. Not ever.



There will be a day, that you and I will have a showdown once again. Mark it."

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


​

Location: Yuki's home, Shibuya
Time: 7 pm



Another day of work has passed by for Yuki, and so he's back to his routine of watching downloaded shows on his computer.


Since a torrent has yet to be finished, Yuki heads to his garage, and looks at a particular car...

It's a Honda HSV-010. What's surprising, is that it's certified for road use. It's the only one of its kind that is able to roam around the streets. Yuki performed the deed since the car has officially retired from Super GT anyway, and decided to buy one of the prototypes he developed and turned it into a road car.




Yuki: "I'm back to my original plan. I think this shall do it. That sector time will be broken soon enough."






End of Page 8

AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- The race Owen participated? That's the current 550 PP Expert Seasonal.

- And originally, Yuki's street legal HSV was meant to be tuned by Spoon, but I have foregone it since it's kinda impossible for my skill level in Photoshop.

 

[AudiMan2011]

Owen's awkwardness is on Michiharu levels when he was with Tomoko.

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 9 - Millisecond



Location: Haneda International Airport, Tokyo
Time: 7 am, two days later



Having finally discharged from the hospital, and as well as his assignment concluded, Rob, Jenny, and Mauricio are now at the airport. Though Jenny will fly separately, scheduled an hour later departing for Heathrow. Rob is ordered to escort Mauricio back to Lisbon, and plans to surprise Maria upon arriving. The two men are at the food court while waiting for their boarding.


Rob enjoys a plate of sashimi while Mauricio is sipping some coffee.


Mauricio: "I'm finally going home. I miss my wife's chicken soup. And it's no ordinary chicken soup."



Rob: "She'll cook that more frequently."



Mauricio: "And I want to see Maria's room always filled with sketches."




Rob: "I'm actually jealous of her..."



Mauricio: "Why?"


Rob briefly looks down, and then faces Mauricio again. It's as if Rob had a brief moment of sadness that he couldn't show.



Rob: "Because she still has her father, she can wait for you every time for dinner."



Mauricio: "I take it that you lost your father."


Rob sniffles, but retains his composure.



Rob: "There's one thing you must do, and it's forever. Take care of your daughter, and never let go of your family. Having a father figure in the house makes everything complete."



Mauricio: "You do the same as well. You are going to be a father soon, right?"



Rob: "That's about right. My late father was a precious gift in life that disappeared. One could arguably call him the best dad in the world."

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


​

Location: Kanagawa Prefecture
Time: 7:30 am


Meanwhile, Yuki headed out to the mountains, and then he'll punch in later at work after the run.

Everything is all set. All Yuki needs to do is drive... and beat the sector time record that Rob had set. 1 minute and 30 seconds flat is the time to beat.





Yuki clicks on the stopwatch. The timed run starts.



Yuki: "Let's go!"


(Background Music - Gamble Rumble by m.o.v.e.)

The morning sun shines brightly. It may seem that odds are in favor of him... The HSV-010's high-revving 3.4 liter V8 howls into heavens.

Yuki: "I acknowledge his godly skills, but there is someone out there faster than him! He cannot be perfect!"

Every click on the paddle shifters matter, along with the steering and pedal inputs. One cannot make a mistake in a time trial, especially on a twisty mountain road.

The HSV-010 GT has crossed the line, prompting Yuki to click on the stopwatch again. But he looked in disappointment.

Yuki: "Shoot... 1 minute and 30.4 seconds. Even that is considered a large margin. Damn."



But Yuki shows another evil grin...



Yuki: "But one thing remains... I still rule the hills. I may be a juvenile, but...




...within me lies a REAL MONSTER. I love it when I deceive my opponents."

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


​

Location: Salvador residence, Evora, Portugal
Time: 3 pm



To start off the planned surprise, Rob rings the doorbell of the home, while Mauricio is waiting inside the taxi.

Valentina reaches for the door, and happily receives Rob.


Rob: "Good afternoon, Mrs. Salvador."


Valentina: "Oh Mr. Rob! It's been a while, how's your investigation?"


Rob: "Is Maria here?"


Valentina: "Oh. Hang on a second, I'll call her."



The mother then summons her daughter to the porch.



Maria: "Rob? What brings you here?"



Rob: "Someone wants to see you both."


Rob reaches out his arm, signalling the surprise. Without a moment wasted, Mauricio gets out of the taxi.



Maria: "Father? Father!"



The mother and daughter run towards him, and they give him a tight hug.




Mauricio: "I miss you all so much. I'm home..."


Maria: "This is the happiest day of my life!"



Meanwhile, Rob watches over the reunited family, then shed a single tear as he smiled.





Rob: "I'm jealous. I'm really jealous...."




End of Page 9




AUTHOR'S NOTES:



- Sorry Yuki, Rob has a plot armor for now. But for that 604pp HSV to be just 4 tenths slower than Rob's 650pp X-Bow R is such a revelation. Both cars used Sports Soft tires for their timed runs. The KTM is indeed such a difficult car to maintain control especially on a twisty road with high power applications.


- The next arc will be about Owen once again, about his racing adventures in his hometown Essex. Though I have also the Subaru VGT arc ready. It's just that we all have to savor those VGTs, and that is still part of my waiting game. Remember, the remaining VGTs are yet to be released.



- With the Alpine and Lexus VGTs unveiled, I can confirm that they will make it here in my story. Their respective drafts were created.

 

[AudiMan2011]

That X-Bow is insane to be 4 tenths quicker than a full blown HSV-010.

 

[Niku Driver HC]

That X-Bow is insane to be 4 tenths quicker than a full blown HSV-010.

Trust me, Kakashi's X-Bows can do that. They are true monsters created from simple sports cars...

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 10 - First Steps




Location: Kazunori Yamauchi's Office, Polyphony Digital Building, Tokyo
Time: 10 pm



Once again, the room is only lit by the overlooking city skyline along with the bright full moon. Kazunori sits on his chair, looking at the large window, seemingly enjoying the sleepless capital.

His legs crossed, and his finger tapping on the armrest, he seems calm and relaxed.


However, he is very aware of the recent events - defeat of Anton and Mauricio's escape. He couldn't afford to literally sit still, but...


Before he could think deeper, he hears the door open, and it turns out to be Sabrina paying a visit.



Sabrina: "I've got some bad news. Turns out that the security force you tasked to watch over Mauricio has completely been annihilated, and in a totally gruesome manner. Who could have thought a member of Dream Alliance could do such things?"



Kaz: "Simple... we provoked them, that's why. And now they have sent a message, a brave message in fact."



Sabrina: "You know, the authorities will chase after us if we linger here. I suggest we move to Europe. Besides, Alan, and the Russian twins are there already. You need somewhere place to hide. Mauricio is surely to tell the tale."



Kaz: "No matter what kind of hiding we do, the Dream Alliance will never give up in defeating us. We can't afford sitting still, but they aren't wasting time, either..."



Sabrina: "Anton's car is currently undergoing some repairs in Europe, but he shall be back on track soon enough."


Kaz: "His defeat shall serve a lesson for him."



Sabrina: "So what are going to do next?"




Kaz: "We have basically ignited the flames of war, and once it's started, we cannot turn back.



Soon enough, maybe, the racing world will be against us. But we shall see. Let's head to Europe, then."

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


​

Location: Hiroyuki's home, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo
Time: 10 am, the next day



Hiroyuki has summoned his children and the Kanonjis for a brief meeting. Despite going on with their other work, they have to be present...



Hiroyuki: "Rob Hatch has successfully retrieved Mauricio, and is currently in Portugal."


Takanori: "That's good news!"


Takuma: "Of course though, he went through a lot for that."


Nobuhiko: "It's such a joy when you have reunited with the family you've left for long. I know the feeling."


Hiroyuki: "But of course we are not to stop here. Our war has just begun. We will continue on fighting, and defeat Kazunori."


Yuki: "I'm ready for it."


Takuma: "Glad to hear your confidence, Yuki. You have improved a lot."


Yuki: "Let us show to them who the real monsters are. Not those cars nor ours, but us."


Hiroyuki: "My thoughts exactly. Every car can be a monster, just as long as there is a monster behind the wheel.


Let us show them that we are the most terrifying beasts on the race track!"

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

Location: Essex Orphanage, Essex, United Kingdom
Time: 12 pm, two days later



It's such a bright sunny day in UK, a rare phenomenon if you ask the locals...



Owen takes advantage of the weather to pay a visit to the orphanage. After all, he has the most memorable experiences in life right in that place.


As usual, Elizabeth Cambridge greets him warmly.



Elizabeth: "Oh what a lovely surprise! I've heard you are now in a racing team!"


Owen: "Madam, I am always delighted to see your radiant disposition. And yes, I do belong in a racing team that is like being in a family."



Elizabeth: "Never stop pursuing happiness, Owen. Never stop."




And then suddenly, a man arrives, wearing a beret and a blazer along with a pair of loafers. He is just as old as Elizabeth.



Elizabeth: "Edward! Another surprise visitor!"


Edward Cambridge, the husband of Elizabeth, and somehow funded the construction of the orphanage. He understands his wife's love for children, after their own child died...



Edward: "Owen? Heh... you've gotten bald! What? To prove you're manly?"


Elizabeth: "Edward! He's a grown man now! And he is a race car driver!"


Edward: "You were too meek as a child. But I shall commend you for making it that far today. However, you don't look half the hero as someone here..."



Elizabeth: "Stop talking if you are just going to pout some nonsense. You're always mean to him... Do not listen to him, Owen."



Edward: "I'm just saying what I feel, Beth."


Elizabeth: "Well, just shut up!"


Owen: "Please... it's such a sunny day. Let's all be happy."



Edward: "Whatever. You have so much to prove, Owen. So many more. Anyhow, seeing that the orphanage is doing okay, I'm out of here. I just want to check up on you."


Elizabeth: "Oh... just go away!"



Her husband ended his visit.



Owen: "Well, I won't be keeping you for long, either. I'm happy that this place is always fresh as a daisy."


Elizabeth: "I hope you never change that bright attitude of yours. It's clearly much brighter than the sun today."



After exchanging their farewells, Owen heads off. Having so much time to kill and seeing no traffic cars, he decides to have a little run with this KTM in an empty B road.

Owen: "Mr. Cambridge is right, I still have a lot to prove. Since I'm being new and all..."

Owen: "Maybe I ought to prove him. That could be a good first step for my improvement."

Owen: "This I might enjoy. Honing my skills here would help me deal with the Vision GT Project."

Meanwhile, in another British B road...

The Jaguar XJ220. A rare sight, and it's such a golden opportunity for its owner to run it at its fullest at the perfect weather conditions.

It is still a supercar to be recognized...

THE END


​

AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- I'll take a brief break after this. So the new arc will be released probably in two days time.

​

 

[AudiMan2011]

The old dog rises again. Looking forward to the next arc.

 

[RCKakashi14]

THE ESSEX HERO




Once upon a time, there was a fastest racer in Essex's B roads, named Brandon Hatch. He was dubbed as The Essex Hero, but having passed on, the legend was easily forgotten even by its most avid fans.


However, it would seem that it shall rise again, after a certain car is making a return. Would it be able to revive its former glory? Or is there another one vying for the title?


​

Page 1 - Irish Tycoon




Location: Heathrow Airport, United Kingdom
Time: 9 am

"Attention, please. British Airways flight BA 1234 from Tokyo has landed. All passengers must claim their baggage at conveyor 5."



​

Oh finally... I must say though, British Airways' first class is great overall. The cabin crew are very nice and I was able to FINALLY SLEEP for over 16 hours during the direct flight. I HATE STOPOVERS, though. Good thing that airline has a direct route from Tokyo to London.


You're probably asking why I'm here in London. I almost forgot to mention that I have to arrange my adoptive father's real estate matters every month. I just have to pick a week of that month and use it to go here. I was inherited with that business, so it's such a big responsibility. The boss of Motoring Monthly magazine has known this since my very first day of work, so thankfully he understands.



Okay, conveyor 5. Oh shoot! My luggage is the first one out! Gotta run! I didn't even bother getting a cart, as I'm in a hurry.


Whew... finally got my yellow Samsonite stroller luggage. Having a bright colored luggage helps, you know? I just pulled it since it's the only luggage I bring during trips, anyway.



Taxi... great, finally got in one.


Takuma: "Westminster Abbey, please."


Nearby Westminster Abbey is a garage that Sir Ben had established. Time to get a car, and then drive to Dunsfold.

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

​

Location: Essex
Time: 3 pm



Having nothing to do, Owen decides to get out of his home and have another run with his KTM in a B road. He didn't mind the cold, cloudy day.

Owen: "Roads like this are the reason why there are people who just love driving. Nothing else."

At the next corner, the X-Bow just responds to Owen's commands. The steering is precise, and the car's flat bottom ensures better airflow underneath, therefore having better aerodynamics.



Owen: "This wonderful feeling of responsiveness. The chief reason why I love Rob's X-Bow, and decided to have my own."

However, his joy of driving has been cut short, as he sees a huge crowd along with the road's closure. It turns out to be a street race, something that took Owen by surprise.



Owen: "Never heard of a street race here before..."



He just blended in with the spectators, who are eager to see who shall cross the finish line first.



In the heat of the race, a grey Lamborghini Reventon makes mincemeat of the competition.

Driving the exotic is a middle-aged man, who is seemingly familiar to the world of motorsports, seeing his reactions behind the wheel.

And just several meters away from the goal, the Reventon grabs the lead.

Then the crowd sees the Reventon crossing the finish line first, and some have cheered.


Owen: "A Reventon? First time I saw one in the flesh."



The middle-aged man steps out, who Owen easily recognizes.



Owen: "Mr. Craig Williams? What's he doing here? Is he enjoying racing too? As long as he manages his business, then he should be fine."



Then Craig enters back in his car and immediately moves. It passed by Owen, and he briefly saw the face of who was once his top boss.



Owen: "Didn't age a bit the last time I saw him. But seriously though, why is there a sudden rise in street racing activities here?"



Meanwhile, Craig is on his way back home to Central London. He's living there for years ever since he built his first shop. However, he is of Irish origin, and spent his youth in Ireland. He moved to London along with his father to start up a small coffee shop, later turned into a very popular place for those who want a break - called Latte Night.

It's natural to feel utopia after having felt victory, but Craig immediately turns back to his serious mood and stepped harder on the accelerator.



Craig: "That race there was just nothing. The legendary Essex Hero still hasn't shown up. Does it really exist, or is it just a folklore?"

Craig: "Whatever it is, I have to race with it! I want to see if those legends are true. I don't care how long it takes, even though I have Asia expansion project to take care of!"

End of Page 1



AUTHOR'S NOTES:


- Craig's bio is can now be read at the OP.

​

​

 

[RCKakashi14]

Page 2 - Giant Killer



Location: Essex
Time: 3 pm, the next day



I used my day of arrival to rest, really. I didn't do much, except some paperwork in the house.

Today, I left Dunsfold by around morning to check Sir Ben's properties in Essex. Plus, I have to pay realty tax too. I am now imagining the stress he was going through when he was still living...



Great power comes with great responsibility, they say. It is very much true....

Oh... clouds have started to form. But traffic is gone, so I can stretch this Diablo a bit. It now has 700 horsepower, and a very loud Krissieg exhaust installed when I brought it to Japan. Hehehehehe.

With that increased power, further tweaks were made to the chassis as well.


Though of course, it still lives up to its reputation as a hard-to-handle, raw driving Lamborghini.

Whew... thank god I reacted much faster. I don't want to crash this thing ever again!

After that brief fun, I have arrived in one of Sir Ben's properties. Hmmmm.... as far as I know, I have yet to meet the buyer. The tall patches of grass must be cut down as well.

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

​

Location: Owen's home, Essex
Time: 4 pm


Owen listens to classical music in his room while browsing the internet. He then browses for some tuning parts for his X-Bow.

Having found nothing that suits his interest, he just turns off the monitor and lays back on his chair, still listening to the music. He then thinks back at the commotion yesterday.




Owen: "Seeing the increase of sports car sightings here, it's no surprise if it's related to the street race I saw yesterday. Why? I thought this place is quite peaceful..."



He heads downstairs, to look for something to snack on. But finds nothing. So he grabs the keys of his KTM and set off to a nearby grocery store to get some bread.



A few minutes of travel, he arrives there, and manages to get two loaves of bread. They were able to fit in the X-Bow's rather small boot space.


A surprise encounter arrived in the form of Takuma's Diablo arriving. Takuma rolled down the windows to talk to Owen.


Takuma: "Hey, you have time?"


Owen: "Sure. Why?"


Takuma: "Let's have some coffee."


Owen: "Okay."



The two enter in the coffee shop beside the supermarket. Their orders have been served immediately, turning out that they're the only customers for the afternoon.



Takuma: "You bought a KTM X-Bow too, huh? Has Rob poisoned your mind?"


Owen: "I just happened to drive his X-Bow and it was bonkers fast."


Takuma: "It should be, since it's responsible for smashing the lap times the other members of our team and I have set.



Owen: "Is that so? Then I must have made the right purchase after all!"


Takuma: "Hey, a car can be a monster in the right hands. I take it that yours is also modified."


Owen: "That's right, and it still puts an emphasis on drivability. No major engine tune whatsoever, while there's still an increase of BHP. It has 390 horsepower as we speak."



Takuma: "Not bad. Rob's X-Bow has 521 horsepower, on the other hand. My Diablo there has 700."




Owen: "I'm actually jealous that you own a supercar."



Takuma: "What's there to be jealous about? You own a supercar killer."



We've finished drinking, and then we head out to check our cars. Owen's X-Bow has a nice shade of blue...



Owen: "Shall we have a brief run?"


Takuma: "I don't mind."



As long as it's brief, okay? I don't want a full-on street race.



Owen: "Okay then, let's head to a B road."



The two of us set off, and Owen led me to a section of a B road. He starts off, and boy that KTM is quick!

Are you sure that it only has 390 horsepower?

Owen: "I love the sound that the Diablo makes... and it's quite fast too."




End of Page 2

 

[AudiMan2011]

The mad cow is back. Awesome.