The Dream Alliance: Chapter 4; Page 23 - A New Road Ahead
- Thread starter RCKakashi14
- 212 comments
- 20,092 views
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 2 - That Bossy R34!
The next day, the team go to separate ways as per Takanori's request. Takuma and Ricky head to U.K., while Takanori and Nobuhiko head to Italy to meet up with some organizers.
While in the plane, Ricky couldn't help but feel worried for this teammate.
Ricky: "Takuma-san, I wonder if Nobuhiko-san would get well soon."
Takuma: "He will. You should be optimistic for our teammate, especially when it comes to the fastest member of our team."
Ricky: "Where are we heading, by the way?"
Takuma: "To your father's home."
Ricky: "I want to see it... I wonder how he lived alone after leaving my Mom."
Takuma: "I'll show you something once we reach there."
Ricky: "What is it?"
Takuma: "A car that defines him. Once you drive it, you'll know who your father really is."
Ricky: "Got it."
**********************************************************
In a restaurant in Berlin, Germany, the Top Gun members hold a meeting in a private room. Romeo comes in late, though.
James: "You are late. Where have you been?"
Romeo: "Yesterday, I came all the way from the Nurburgring and had a very long sleep. My apologies."
Gina: "What are you doing there?"
Romeo: "Oh, I saw Hiroyuki's son vomiting on the grass. Pretty gross."
Hiroyuki pays attention to Romeo, with his hand clenching.
Romeo: "What kind of a driver is he? I mean, just a few laps, and he puked? I don't think he could be a challenge for me, ha!"
Hiroyuki stands up and goes to Romeo. He grabs Romeo by the collar and slams him into the wall.
Gina: "Whoa!"
Hiroyuki: "Mou ichido."
("Say it again.")
Romeo: "Geez. Chill, old man! I was just saying what I saw!"
Hiroyuki: "Don't you dare insult my son. Or else, you'll regret saying it for the rest of your life!"
James: "Give it up, you two. Let's focus our future endeavors."
The two return to their seats.
James: "You see, the rallying season will be back pretty soon. We have to prepare ourselves. Romeo, I assume that you'll keep a cool head and win for the team."
Romeo: "Roger that. I'll show them..."
**********************************************************
The next morning, a heavily-tuned red Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 blazes through the Circuit de La Sarthe in France. Ricky and Takuma are in it, with the former driving the car.
Ricky: "Whoa!!! It's just..."
Approaching the next corner, Ricky slows down the car and then performs heel-and-toe while downshifting. He turns the car.
Ricky: "It's stable through the corners despite having over 800 HP!"
Takuma: "See? You're gonna like it."
The R34 speeds through the Hunaudieres Straight at 330 KM/H.
Ricky: "You are right. This car defines who my father was. It's bossy and intimidating even when cruising!"
Ricky: "But it is friendly, somehow. It can save you from trouble."
Takuma: "That's your father. This is also the first car I drove then moment I got my license."
They return to the pit lane after another lap. The two get out from the car.
Ricky: "That was exhilarating!"
Takuma: "It was painted in blue, but unfortunately my blundering twin named Takanori repainted it in red since he idolized the MCR R34 so much. Ugh..."
Ricky: "Haha!"
Then they hear a very high-pitched exhaust note.
Ricky: "Something's coming. An F1 car, perhaps?"
Takuma: "It's kinda different..."
Then they see it running along at the main straight.
Ricky: "What car is that?"
Takuma: "It's a Honda HSV-010 GT. It's a very competent Super GT machine. It gave the R35 GT-R a hard time..."
End of Page 2
The next day, the team go to separate ways as per Takanori's request. Takuma and Ricky head to U.K., while Takanori and Nobuhiko head to Italy to meet up with some organizers.
While in the plane, Ricky couldn't help but feel worried for this teammate.
Ricky: "Takuma-san, I wonder if Nobuhiko-san would get well soon."
Takuma: "He will. You should be optimistic for our teammate, especially when it comes to the fastest member of our team."
Ricky: "Where are we heading, by the way?"
Takuma: "To your father's home."
Ricky: "I want to see it... I wonder how he lived alone after leaving my Mom."
Takuma: "I'll show you something once we reach there."
Ricky: "What is it?"
Takuma: "A car that defines him. Once you drive it, you'll know who your father really is."
Ricky: "Got it."
**********************************************************
In a restaurant in Berlin, Germany, the Top Gun members hold a meeting in a private room. Romeo comes in late, though.
James: "You are late. Where have you been?"
Romeo: "Yesterday, I came all the way from the Nurburgring and had a very long sleep. My apologies."
Gina: "What are you doing there?"
Romeo: "Oh, I saw Hiroyuki's son vomiting on the grass. Pretty gross."
Hiroyuki pays attention to Romeo, with his hand clenching.
Romeo: "What kind of a driver is he? I mean, just a few laps, and he puked? I don't think he could be a challenge for me, ha!"
Hiroyuki stands up and goes to Romeo. He grabs Romeo by the collar and slams him into the wall.
Gina: "Whoa!"
Hiroyuki: "Mou ichido."
("Say it again.")
Romeo: "Geez. Chill, old man! I was just saying what I saw!"
Hiroyuki: "Don't you dare insult my son. Or else, you'll regret saying it for the rest of your life!"
James: "Give it up, you two. Let's focus our future endeavors."
The two return to their seats.
James: "You see, the rallying season will be back pretty soon. We have to prepare ourselves. Romeo, I assume that you'll keep a cool head and win for the team."
Romeo: "Roger that. I'll show them..."
**********************************************************
The next morning, a heavily-tuned red Nissan Skyline GT-R R34 blazes through the Circuit de La Sarthe in France. Ricky and Takuma are in it, with the former driving the car.
Ricky: "Whoa!!! It's just..."
Approaching the next corner, Ricky slows down the car and then performs heel-and-toe while downshifting. He turns the car.
Ricky: "It's stable through the corners despite having over 800 HP!"
Takuma: "See? You're gonna like it."
The R34 speeds through the Hunaudieres Straight at 330 KM/H.
Ricky: "You are right. This car defines who my father was. It's bossy and intimidating even when cruising!"
Ricky: "But it is friendly, somehow. It can save you from trouble."
Takuma: "That's your father. This is also the first car I drove then moment I got my license."
They return to the pit lane after another lap. The two get out from the car.
Ricky: "That was exhilarating!"
Takuma: "It was painted in blue, but unfortunately my blundering twin named Takanori repainted it in red since he idolized the MCR R34 so much. Ugh..."
Ricky: "Haha!"
Then they hear a very high-pitched exhaust note.
Ricky: "Something's coming. An F1 car, perhaps?"
Takuma: "It's kinda different..."
Then they see it running along at the main straight.
Ricky: "What car is that?"
Takuma: "It's a Honda HSV-010 GT. It's a very competent Super GT machine. It gave the R35 GT-R a hard time..."
End of Page 2
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 3 - Opportunity
Ricky: "An HSV-010 GT?"
Takuma: "You heard it right."
Ricky: "What is it?"
Takuma: "It's Honda's replacement for the epic NSX in the Super GT."
Ricky: "Why was the NSX being replaced?"
Takuma: "Simply put, the NSX is no longer in production. You can't run a car in Super GT if it's not homologated or a mass-produced production car. Aside from that, the GT500 class strictly implemented the use of FR layout cars only at the start of 2010."
Takuma: "Oddly enough, the HSV-010 GT is not even a production car yet it can run in the GT500 class. That's because it passed the requirements in JAF and was given special permission. It's said to be based on the cancelled next-generation NSX. Whatever the chassis is, it goes very well with the special engine under the hood."
Ricky: "What's the engine? I assume it's from an F1 car..."
Takuma: "Correct. It's a 3.4 liter V8 from Honda's Formula Nippon machine. It was tuned to meet Super GT requirements, though."
Takuma: "The moment it entered in the battlefield, it demonstrated stellar performance much better than the NSX. It has god-like handling thanks to its balance and its aerodynamic body. As a result, it won some rounds in its debut. It may have given the GT-Rs a hard time, but the GT-Rs still won the championship overall. Still, that is an amazing piece of machinery that Honda came up with."
Then the HSV enters the pit lane and stops right in front of the two. To Takuma's surprise, it is the twins' adopted cousin named Sayuki Kanonji driving the car all along.
Sayuki: "Hisashiburi da na, Takuma."
("It's been a while, Takuma.)
Takuma: "Sou da na. Sugoi na, ano kuruma wa zettaini hayai."
("Indeed. Amazing, that car is definitely fast.")
She notices Ricky who seems to be rather out-of-place.
Sayuki: "Hi there, Mr..."
Ricky: "My name is Ricky McCarthy. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Sayuki: "My name is Sayuki Kanonji. I am Takuma and Takanori's cousin. You are such a nice and charming guy."
Ricky: "Ehhehehehe..."
Sayuki: "Good thing we meet each other here. As you see, the rallying season will be back soon. Have you picked a car for it?"
Takuma: "Never heard of that, but I got it covered already."
Sayuki: "That's good to hear. Ricky-san, will you join?"
Ricky: "Well..."
Takuma: "Don't worry, I'll teach him."
Sayuki: "That's good. And I want to visit Tomoko-obasan's Mochi shop again. How is she?"
Takuma: "Okaasan is doing well. And she's healthier than ever."
Sayuki: "That's good to hear. So Ricky-san, you better prepare yourself for the upcoming rally season. Takuma is such a good teacher."
Sayuki winks at him.
Ricky: "I see. I'll do my best, then. Gambarimasu."
Sayuki: "Gambatte ne, Ricky-san. Well, I gotta set off. I'll arrange the registration for you."
Takuma: "Thanks a lot."
Sayuki: "See ya!"
She gets back in the car and leaves the track.
Takuma: "Never heard that rallying is back. Well then, shall we head over to your uncle Sander's house?"
Ricky: "Uncle Sander???"
Takuma: "The real reason why your father died. He was about to shoot me, but your father acted as a human shield when he set himself free. His house has the rallying machine we need. Let's go."
Ricky: "Okay then."
The two leave the track as well and they are on their way back home to U.K.
**********************************************************
Back in Japan, Daisuke visits the bakeshop where Kasumi is working. Upon entering, however, he does not see her. He asks her co-workers and they tell him that she had to leave. As he is choosing as to what bread he is going to buy, Kasumi returns.
Daisuke: "I thought you're on leave, Kasumi-chan."
Kasumi: "I'm about to get my things here, but good thing I saw you. Come, let's talk outside."
The two head outside the shop, with Kasumi playing with her fingers.
Daisuke: "Is something wrong?"
Kasumi: "Well, you see..."
Daisuke: "Hm?"
Kasumi: "I'm pregnant. I don't know how to break this news to Nobu-kun..."
End of Page 3
Ricky: "An HSV-010 GT?"
Takuma: "You heard it right."
Ricky: "What is it?"
Takuma: "It's Honda's replacement for the epic NSX in the Super GT."
Ricky: "Why was the NSX being replaced?"
Takuma: "Simply put, the NSX is no longer in production. You can't run a car in Super GT if it's not homologated or a mass-produced production car. Aside from that, the GT500 class strictly implemented the use of FR layout cars only at the start of 2010."
Takuma: "Oddly enough, the HSV-010 GT is not even a production car yet it can run in the GT500 class. That's because it passed the requirements in JAF and was given special permission. It's said to be based on the cancelled next-generation NSX. Whatever the chassis is, it goes very well with the special engine under the hood."
Ricky: "What's the engine? I assume it's from an F1 car..."
Takuma: "Correct. It's a 3.4 liter V8 from Honda's Formula Nippon machine. It was tuned to meet Super GT requirements, though."
Takuma: "The moment it entered in the battlefield, it demonstrated stellar performance much better than the NSX. It has god-like handling thanks to its balance and its aerodynamic body. As a result, it won some rounds in its debut. It may have given the GT-Rs a hard time, but the GT-Rs still won the championship overall. Still, that is an amazing piece of machinery that Honda came up with."
Then the HSV enters the pit lane and stops right in front of the two. To Takuma's surprise, it is the twins' adopted cousin named Sayuki Kanonji driving the car all along.
Sayuki: "Hisashiburi da na, Takuma."
("It's been a while, Takuma.)
Takuma: "Sou da na. Sugoi na, ano kuruma wa zettaini hayai."
("Indeed. Amazing, that car is definitely fast.")
She notices Ricky who seems to be rather out-of-place.
Sayuki: "Hi there, Mr..."
Ricky: "My name is Ricky McCarthy. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Sayuki: "My name is Sayuki Kanonji. I am Takuma and Takanori's cousin. You are such a nice and charming guy."
Ricky: "Ehhehehehe..."
Sayuki: "Good thing we meet each other here. As you see, the rallying season will be back soon. Have you picked a car for it?"
Takuma: "Never heard of that, but I got it covered already."
Sayuki: "That's good to hear. Ricky-san, will you join?"
Ricky: "Well..."
Takuma: "Don't worry, I'll teach him."
Sayuki: "That's good. And I want to visit Tomoko-obasan's Mochi shop again. How is she?"
Takuma: "Okaasan is doing well. And she's healthier than ever."
Sayuki: "That's good to hear. So Ricky-san, you better prepare yourself for the upcoming rally season. Takuma is such a good teacher."
Sayuki winks at him.
Ricky: "I see. I'll do my best, then. Gambarimasu."
Sayuki: "Gambatte ne, Ricky-san. Well, I gotta set off. I'll arrange the registration for you."
Takuma: "Thanks a lot."
Sayuki: "See ya!"
She gets back in the car and leaves the track.
Takuma: "Never heard that rallying is back. Well then, shall we head over to your uncle Sander's house?"
Ricky: "Uncle Sander???"
Takuma: "The real reason why your father died. He was about to shoot me, but your father acted as a human shield when he set himself free. His house has the rallying machine we need. Let's go."
Ricky: "Okay then."
The two leave the track as well and they are on their way back home to U.K.
**********************************************************
Back in Japan, Daisuke visits the bakeshop where Kasumi is working. Upon entering, however, he does not see her. He asks her co-workers and they tell him that she had to leave. As he is choosing as to what bread he is going to buy, Kasumi returns.
Daisuke: "I thought you're on leave, Kasumi-chan."
Kasumi: "I'm about to get my things here, but good thing I saw you. Come, let's talk outside."
The two head outside the shop, with Kasumi playing with her fingers.
Daisuke: "Is something wrong?"
Kasumi: "Well, you see..."
Daisuke: "Hm?"
Kasumi: "I'm pregnant. I don't know how to break this news to Nobu-kun..."
End of Page 3
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
WTFnews
It's a 3.4 liter V8.
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 4 - An Unlikely Weapon
Daisuke: "P...Pregnant!?"
Kasumi: "Even I don't have the strength to tell to you. It's way too humiliating."
Daisuke: "Look, you have to. I'm your best friend, Nobu is your best friend too. No matter what happens, I'm here to support you."
Kasumi: "I engaged in... Enjo Kosai. I was doing the deed even before we got close. Remember the time that I was always picked up by a man in a Mercedes? That wasn't my father. It's just a middle-aged man I'm trying to satisfy in exchange for huge amounts of money. I have no family to turn to. My parents died when I was in beginning of teens and I started doing that deed to fend for myself."
Daisuke: "Kasumi-chan..."
Kasumi: "A month ago, while doing the deed that night, I was already thinking of Nobu-kun back then. I attempted to resist the man, but he assaulted me. I have no choice but to give in. My eyes were closed and I was just thinking back the moments that Nobu-kun and I have shared. Nobu-kun is the only person I'm willing to give my virginity to! Because I love him so much! But now, I cannot. He might despise me... I took this job to completely abandon Enjo Kosai so that I can prove to everyone that I can take on even a normal job without doing something bad."
Daisuke: "Kasumi-chan, even though what you did is frowned upon by the society, Nobu and I would always be at your side no matter what. We are best friends, and together we will conquer the challenges that stand in our way! I promised Nobu to take care of you! And that's what I'll do from now on. I can be the father of your unborn child; just don't think of aborting it. Let us not back down from that challenge!"
Kasumi: "Daisuke-kun..."
She bursts in tears and hugs him.
Kasumi: "...thank you very much!!!"
Daisuke: "Don't cry, okay? We can do this together."
If you're not familiar what Enjo Kosai is, then have you remembered what Natsuki Mogi from Initial D is doing behind Takumi's back? That's the gist of it.
**********************************************************
In U.K., Takuma and Ricky head to Sander's residence in Heathrow. It turns out that Jenny is the sole inhabitant of the mansion. She lets them in and they gather in the living room.
Jenny: "It's been a while, Takuma."
Takuma: "Indeed. Oh, this is Ricky, the biological son of your uncle Ben."
Jenny: "Bloody hell. Really!? Uncle Ben never told me about this."
Ricky: "It's kinda a long story, if you ask me."
Jenny: "I've heard enough of shady affair stories. So, what are you chaps doing here?"
Takuma: "We're here to get that rally car since the rally season is just around the corner."
Jenny: "Forget it. That Impreza WRC you drove was seized by the authorities. All the cars that were suspected to have ill-gotten by my father have been confiscated."
Takuma: "Oh crap. I guess I have to take out some money to buy a new car."
Jenny: "That won't be a problem, either. Come, I'll show you something."
The three head out and Jenny presents to them a Volkswagen Golf R painted in Rising Blue metallic.
Jenny: "I know that this doesn't do much, I guess you could do something about this, right?"
Takuma: "It has 4WD and a turbocharged engine that are prerequisites for a rally car. I guess that'll do, with a little work."
Jenny: "Strange enough, it's the only car that my father acquired legally."
Takuma: "Well then, tomorrow Ricky and I will head to a circuit nearby to put that uber Golf to the test and see if it's really uber."
The next day, Ricky and Takuma head to a nearby racetrack with the Golf R as planned. It's an open track day, and various cars are running in the track.
Takuma dons his Black Stig suit and helmet.
Ricky: "You really look intimidating in that getup."
Takuma: "Believe me, all racing car drivers look intimidating in their race suits."
The two get in the car and set out.
Takuma: "Steering is sharp..."
Ricky: "You said that this is 4WD. But I never heard of a VW Golf in rallying."
Takuma: "That's right. This is an unlikely weapon. VW's 4WD system called the Haldex is the company's universal 4WD system. The companies owned by VW use this system in their 4WD cars too, albeit with different names such as Audi's quattro."
Ricky: "Pretty neat cornering ability. You are in the apex."
Takuma: "You can tell that this is 4WD because of the slight understeer this car has. Though I think it would be safe to have that slight understeer for stability."
Ricky: "You think this car is worth it?"
Takuma: "Well, let's give it a try."
End of Page 4
Daisuke: "P...Pregnant!?"
Kasumi: "Even I don't have the strength to tell to you. It's way too humiliating."
Daisuke: "Look, you have to. I'm your best friend, Nobu is your best friend too. No matter what happens, I'm here to support you."
Kasumi: "I engaged in... Enjo Kosai. I was doing the deed even before we got close. Remember the time that I was always picked up by a man in a Mercedes? That wasn't my father. It's just a middle-aged man I'm trying to satisfy in exchange for huge amounts of money. I have no family to turn to. My parents died when I was in beginning of teens and I started doing that deed to fend for myself."
Daisuke: "Kasumi-chan..."
Kasumi: "A month ago, while doing the deed that night, I was already thinking of Nobu-kun back then. I attempted to resist the man, but he assaulted me. I have no choice but to give in. My eyes were closed and I was just thinking back the moments that Nobu-kun and I have shared. Nobu-kun is the only person I'm willing to give my virginity to! Because I love him so much! But now, I cannot. He might despise me... I took this job to completely abandon Enjo Kosai so that I can prove to everyone that I can take on even a normal job without doing something bad."
Daisuke: "Kasumi-chan, even though what you did is frowned upon by the society, Nobu and I would always be at your side no matter what. We are best friends, and together we will conquer the challenges that stand in our way! I promised Nobu to take care of you! And that's what I'll do from now on. I can be the father of your unborn child; just don't think of aborting it. Let us not back down from that challenge!"
Kasumi: "Daisuke-kun..."
She bursts in tears and hugs him.
Kasumi: "...thank you very much!!!"
Daisuke: "Don't cry, okay? We can do this together."
If you're not familiar what Enjo Kosai is, then have you remembered what Natsuki Mogi from Initial D is doing behind Takumi's back? That's the gist of it.
**********************************************************
In U.K., Takuma and Ricky head to Sander's residence in Heathrow. It turns out that Jenny is the sole inhabitant of the mansion. She lets them in and they gather in the living room.
Jenny: "It's been a while, Takuma."
Takuma: "Indeed. Oh, this is Ricky, the biological son of your uncle Ben."
Jenny: "Bloody hell. Really!? Uncle Ben never told me about this."
Ricky: "It's kinda a long story, if you ask me."
Jenny: "I've heard enough of shady affair stories. So, what are you chaps doing here?"
Takuma: "We're here to get that rally car since the rally season is just around the corner."
Jenny: "Forget it. That Impreza WRC you drove was seized by the authorities. All the cars that were suspected to have ill-gotten by my father have been confiscated."
Takuma: "Oh crap. I guess I have to take out some money to buy a new car."
Jenny: "That won't be a problem, either. Come, I'll show you something."
The three head out and Jenny presents to them a Volkswagen Golf R painted in Rising Blue metallic.
Jenny: "I know that this doesn't do much, I guess you could do something about this, right?"
Takuma: "It has 4WD and a turbocharged engine that are prerequisites for a rally car. I guess that'll do, with a little work."
Jenny: "Strange enough, it's the only car that my father acquired legally."
Takuma: "Well then, tomorrow Ricky and I will head to a circuit nearby to put that uber Golf to the test and see if it's really uber."
The next day, Ricky and Takuma head to a nearby racetrack with the Golf R as planned. It's an open track day, and various cars are running in the track.
Takuma dons his Black Stig suit and helmet.
Ricky: "You really look intimidating in that getup."
Takuma: "Believe me, all racing car drivers look intimidating in their race suits."
The two get in the car and set out.
Takuma: "Steering is sharp..."
Ricky: "You said that this is 4WD. But I never heard of a VW Golf in rallying."
Takuma: "That's right. This is an unlikely weapon. VW's 4WD system called the Haldex is the company's universal 4WD system. The companies owned by VW use this system in their 4WD cars too, albeit with different names such as Audi's quattro."
Ricky: "Pretty neat cornering ability. You are in the apex."
Takuma: "You can tell that this is 4WD because of the slight understeer this car has. Though I think it would be safe to have that slight understeer for stability."
Ricky: "You think this car is worth it?"
Takuma: "Well, let's give it a try."
End of Page 4
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 5 - A New Goal
In Alessandro Rossi's home in Tuscany, Italy, Takanori is sleeping soundly in the guest room. He and Nobuhiko share the room. After a few more minutes of slumber, Takanori wakes up with a yawn and stretches up his hands.
Takanori: "Such a very wonderful sleep! Eh???"
When he looks around the room, the bed that Nobuhiko lied on is in order.
Takanori: "Where's Nobuhiko???"
Alessandro gets in the room.
Alessandro: "Buon Giorno, Signore Takanori. Looking for your friend? He left very early."
Takanori: "Did he tell you where he went?"
Alessandro: "He spoke to me in Japanese and in broken English. As if I can understand."
After taking a shower and got dressed up, Takanori heads downstairs to the kitchen and drinks a hot cup of coffee.
Takanori: "Don't worry, Nobuhiko is like that; doing things in secret. But he's a cool guy. In fact, he defeated me not once, but twice!"
Alessandro: "Hahahahaha! You? A Kanonji? Lost to some newbie?"
Takanori: "He's a not a newbie. He's been racing for long, and his father is also a legend."
Alessandro: "A legend you say? Who could that be?"
Takanori: "Ever heard of Hiroyuki Hiramoto?"
Alessandro just walks away from the kitchen silently and grabs a cigarette and puffs a smoke outside, at the garden.
Takanori: "Alessandro-san? Something wrong?"
Takanori stands up and follows Alessandro to the garden, with his coffee in hand.
Alessandro: "Do you have an idea that he was more popular in Europe than in Japan? He was notable for regaining his car back in control at the Nordschleife when his car's tires accidentally hit on the grass and lost control in a sudden? He did that like a boss. And no one, ever, has done that before."
Takanori: "Amazing..."
Alessandro: "He was also notorious for drifting his Supra at the streets of Monaco. He did the same route as the Grand Prix circuit."
Takanori: "Nobuhiko is the perfect example of Like Father Like Son. Looks can really be deceiving. I thought he's some nobody, but he isn't!"
Alessandro: "I just hope that kid really lives up to his father's reputation."
Takanori: "He already did."
Alessandro puffs another smoke, and looks up at the morning sky.
Alessandro: ("You should also know that Michiharu Kanonji, Hiroyuki Hiramoto, and Ben McCarthy have formed an alliance too. Your team reminded me of them, and it really was the glory days... It seems that those glory days will return, and I am very eager to see them again.")
Takanori: "Something wrong?"
Alessandro: "You can do it, Takanori. Make your father and your teammates' fathers proud. They are watching from the heavens."
Takanori: "Of course!"
After another slurp, Takanori shows his trademark thumbs up sign and a big smile.
********************************************************************************************************************
In the hills nearby, Nobuhiko is practicing running his Supra.
The car proved to be controllable for him.
Nobuhiko: "That Italian tuner fiddled this car properly. I like the settings."
Nobuhiko: "Before, I can't just floor the car after the corners, Now, I can!"
However, just approaching the next corner, Nobuhiko's stomach once again aches greatly, and he is about to vomit once again. He intentionally spins out the car in that corner and stops.
He gets out and vomits, this time with some traces of blood.
Nobuhiko: "Dammit! I can't..."
"...die just yet! I have yet to settle the score! I swear to beat those two before I vanish from this world!!!"
End of Page 5
In Alessandro Rossi's home in Tuscany, Italy, Takanori is sleeping soundly in the guest room. He and Nobuhiko share the room. After a few more minutes of slumber, Takanori wakes up with a yawn and stretches up his hands.
Takanori: "Such a very wonderful sleep! Eh???"
When he looks around the room, the bed that Nobuhiko lied on is in order.
Takanori: "Where's Nobuhiko???"
Alessandro gets in the room.
Alessandro: "Buon Giorno, Signore Takanori. Looking for your friend? He left very early."
Takanori: "Did he tell you where he went?"
Alessandro: "He spoke to me in Japanese and in broken English. As if I can understand."
After taking a shower and got dressed up, Takanori heads downstairs to the kitchen and drinks a hot cup of coffee.
Takanori: "Don't worry, Nobuhiko is like that; doing things in secret. But he's a cool guy. In fact, he defeated me not once, but twice!"
Alessandro: "Hahahahaha! You? A Kanonji? Lost to some newbie?"
Takanori: "He's a not a newbie. He's been racing for long, and his father is also a legend."
Alessandro: "A legend you say? Who could that be?"
Takanori: "Ever heard of Hiroyuki Hiramoto?"
Alessandro just walks away from the kitchen silently and grabs a cigarette and puffs a smoke outside, at the garden.
Takanori: "Alessandro-san? Something wrong?"
Takanori stands up and follows Alessandro to the garden, with his coffee in hand.
Alessandro: "Do you have an idea that he was more popular in Europe than in Japan? He was notable for regaining his car back in control at the Nordschleife when his car's tires accidentally hit on the grass and lost control in a sudden? He did that like a boss. And no one, ever, has done that before."
Takanori: "Amazing..."
Alessandro: "He was also notorious for drifting his Supra at the streets of Monaco. He did the same route as the Grand Prix circuit."
Takanori: "Nobuhiko is the perfect example of Like Father Like Son. Looks can really be deceiving. I thought he's some nobody, but he isn't!"
Alessandro: "I just hope that kid really lives up to his father's reputation."
Takanori: "He already did."
Alessandro puffs another smoke, and looks up at the morning sky.
Alessandro: ("You should also know that Michiharu Kanonji, Hiroyuki Hiramoto, and Ben McCarthy have formed an alliance too. Your team reminded me of them, and it really was the glory days... It seems that those glory days will return, and I am very eager to see them again.")
Takanori: "Something wrong?"
Alessandro: "You can do it, Takanori. Make your father and your teammates' fathers proud. They are watching from the heavens."
Takanori: "Of course!"
After another slurp, Takanori shows his trademark thumbs up sign and a big smile.
********************************************************************************************************************
In the hills nearby, Nobuhiko is practicing running his Supra.
The car proved to be controllable for him.
Nobuhiko: "That Italian tuner fiddled this car properly. I like the settings."
Nobuhiko: "Before, I can't just floor the car after the corners, Now, I can!"
However, just approaching the next corner, Nobuhiko's stomach once again aches greatly, and he is about to vomit once again. He intentionally spins out the car in that corner and stops.
He gets out and vomits, this time with some traces of blood.
Nobuhiko: "Dammit! I can't..."
"...die just yet! I have yet to settle the score! I swear to beat those two before I vanish from this world!!!"
End of Page 5
- 438
- Den Haag
- sander996
if the experts says so, i believe it.
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Expect to see a legendary rally car here soon...
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 6 - Rallying Legend Revival
Still in Alessandro's house in Italy, Takanori is eagerly waiting for Nobuhiko to arrive while watching news in the living room.
Alessandro: "Still waiting for your friend?"
Takanori: "Yep. Though I don't know if we're leaving or staying here. We have to talk about our future races."
Alessandro: "You should focus on rallying now, amico mio. Everyone is preparing for it."
Takanori: "Ricky is in charge of those, Aniki will teach him about it, though."
Alessandro: "I see."
In the middle of their conversation, Nobuihiko finally arrives. He goes straight to the staircase.
Takanori: "Doko ni itta no?" (Where did you go?)
Nobuhiko: "Ah.. Koko no chikaku ni touge ga aru node, boku wa soko e hashiri ni itta."
(Ah, since there is a mountain pass nearby, I went there to run.)
Takanori: "Sou ka... touge wa dou da ka?" (I see. How's the mountain pass?)
Nobuhiko: "Omoshiroi da na. Boku wa soko ni zettaini kaeru. Ja, boku wa chotto yasumu. Sumimasen..."
(It's interesting. I'll definitely go back there. Well then, I'll rest for a while. Excuse me.)
Nobuhiko continues to ascend through the staircase and heads to the guest room.
Takanori: "Oi, chotto matte!" (Hey, wait!)
Alessandro: "Something wrong?"
Takanori: "I guess we'll talk later, then."
Alessandro: "I hope you have plans."
Takanori: ("What's wrong with Nobuhiko? It seems that there's something off...")
Suddenly, Takanori's smartphone rings and it is Takuma on the other line.
Takanori: "Aniki! So, how's the rallying thing going on?"
Takuma: "Ricky and I will head to Italy with the car tomorrow, dummy."
Takanori: "I see. What's the car?"
Takuma: "It's a Golf R. I'm interested in it..."
Takanori: "Indeed it is interesting. I've never seen a VW in rallying..."
Takuma: "You dummy, VW has been in it for quite some time with their Touareg."
Takanori: "I see."
Takuma: "Well, see you tomorrow."
*******************************************************************************************************************************
2 days later, the Dream Alliance head over to Toscana to test out the Golf R on the dirt. Ricky and Takuma get in the car, with the former behind the wheel.
Takuma: "I'm sure you know what drifting is, right?"
Ricky: "Yes. But is it different on a dirt road? I don't want to break this car."
Takuma: "Mostly, you'll use Scandinavian Flick here. Oh, by the way, don't tell Takanori about this; I was Nikko Sakamoto."
Ricky: "No kidding? You were faking your death with a different name?"
Takuma: "Of course. It's a long story, though. So, shall we go?"
Ricky: "Ikimashou! Is that right?"
Takuma: "Yep."
The Golf R drives away.
Nobuhiko: "A VW Golf on dirt? Never seen it before."
Takanori: "Me too. But I'm sure VW's peeps know how to make a 4WD. Yesterday, Aniki praised the car's stability."
While running, Takuma reads out the map.
Takuma: "There's a hairpin coming up. So you need to be in first gear."
Ricky: "Got it."
So Ricky shifts down as instructed. He flicks the car to the left and performs a drift. He applies countersteer.
At the corner exit, the car's turbo instantly spools up and the gearchange is very quick.
Ricky: "Impressive acceleration!"
Takuma: "It's because of the DSG gearbox."
However, after the next corner, the gearbox could not change a gear. Ricky repeatedly clicks on the paddle, but the gearbox malfunctioned.
Ricky: "Oh crap. I think the gearbox is broken."
Takuma: "I knew it. Dual-clutch gearboxes are fragile. I guess we have to call it a day."
The car returns and the two step out.
Takanori: "Over already?"
Takuma: "The gearbox malfunctioned."
Ricky: "I could not change gears."
Takanori: "Shoot. A dual-clutch transmission is an expensive piece, you know!?"
Takuma: "I know. And you can't expect VW to give it to you in an instant."
Ricky: "What shall we do?"
Takuma: "I don't know. Let's head back. We'll talk in the house."
Upon arrival, Alessandro notices the team's gloomy faces.
Alessandro: "It seems something bad happened."
Takanori: "Yes. The VW broke down."
Alessandro: "How unfortunate. You gotta think of a back up plan quickly."
Takanori's phone rings again, this time his mother, Tomoko is on the other line.
Takanori: "Okaasan? Hey, how's things there in the shop?"
Tomoko: "Better than ever! Oh, and I am having fun with your son. Isn't Takuharu adorable?"
Takanori: "Glad to hear it. Hmmmmm.... may I ask you something?"
Tomoko: "What is it, dear?"
Takanori: "Is your Lancia Stratos still in one piece?"
Tomoko: "It seems fine. Though remember, one tire is missing already; and there is rust all over the body."
Takanori: "Perfect! Hey, can you bring it here to Italy? I need it!"
Tomoko: "What for?"
Takanori: "Alessandro-san will restore it! We'll use it in rallying!"
Tomoko: "Okay then. I will send it there. Just take care, okay?"
Takanori: "You too. Bye!"
Tomoko: "Bye!"
The call ends with a gleeful Takanori.
Takanori: "Guys! I have good news! Mom will send over her Stratos here!"
Takuma: "Her car? Heh, nice move, Mom."
Ricky: "Why?"
Takuma: "The Lancia Stratos was once feared in the world of rallying. It's a force to be reckoned with."
Ricky: "Is that so? No wonder it has been a collector item."
Takanori: "Yossha! We're back in business!"
End of Page 6
Still in Alessandro's house in Italy, Takanori is eagerly waiting for Nobuhiko to arrive while watching news in the living room.
Alessandro: "Still waiting for your friend?"
Takanori: "Yep. Though I don't know if we're leaving or staying here. We have to talk about our future races."
Alessandro: "You should focus on rallying now, amico mio. Everyone is preparing for it."
Takanori: "Ricky is in charge of those, Aniki will teach him about it, though."
Alessandro: "I see."
In the middle of their conversation, Nobuihiko finally arrives. He goes straight to the staircase.
Takanori: "Doko ni itta no?" (Where did you go?)
Nobuhiko: "Ah.. Koko no chikaku ni touge ga aru node, boku wa soko e hashiri ni itta."
(Ah, since there is a mountain pass nearby, I went there to run.)
Takanori: "Sou ka... touge wa dou da ka?" (I see. How's the mountain pass?)
Nobuhiko: "Omoshiroi da na. Boku wa soko ni zettaini kaeru. Ja, boku wa chotto yasumu. Sumimasen..."
(It's interesting. I'll definitely go back there. Well then, I'll rest for a while. Excuse me.)
Nobuhiko continues to ascend through the staircase and heads to the guest room.
Takanori: "Oi, chotto matte!" (Hey, wait!)
Alessandro: "Something wrong?"
Takanori: "I guess we'll talk later, then."
Alessandro: "I hope you have plans."
Takanori: ("What's wrong with Nobuhiko? It seems that there's something off...")
Suddenly, Takanori's smartphone rings and it is Takuma on the other line.
Takanori: "Aniki! So, how's the rallying thing going on?"
Takuma: "Ricky and I will head to Italy with the car tomorrow, dummy."
Takanori: "I see. What's the car?"
Takuma: "It's a Golf R. I'm interested in it..."
Takanori: "Indeed it is interesting. I've never seen a VW in rallying..."
Takuma: "You dummy, VW has been in it for quite some time with their Touareg."
Takanori: "I see."
Takuma: "Well, see you tomorrow."
*******************************************************************************************************************************
2 days later, the Dream Alliance head over to Toscana to test out the Golf R on the dirt. Ricky and Takuma get in the car, with the former behind the wheel.
Takuma: "I'm sure you know what drifting is, right?"
Ricky: "Yes. But is it different on a dirt road? I don't want to break this car."
Takuma: "Mostly, you'll use Scandinavian Flick here. Oh, by the way, don't tell Takanori about this; I was Nikko Sakamoto."
Ricky: "No kidding? You were faking your death with a different name?"
Takuma: "Of course. It's a long story, though. So, shall we go?"
Ricky: "Ikimashou! Is that right?"
Takuma: "Yep."
The Golf R drives away.
Nobuhiko: "A VW Golf on dirt? Never seen it before."
Takanori: "Me too. But I'm sure VW's peeps know how to make a 4WD. Yesterday, Aniki praised the car's stability."
While running, Takuma reads out the map.
Takuma: "There's a hairpin coming up. So you need to be in first gear."
Ricky: "Got it."
So Ricky shifts down as instructed. He flicks the car to the left and performs a drift. He applies countersteer.
At the corner exit, the car's turbo instantly spools up and the gearchange is very quick.
Ricky: "Impressive acceleration!"
Takuma: "It's because of the DSG gearbox."
However, after the next corner, the gearbox could not change a gear. Ricky repeatedly clicks on the paddle, but the gearbox malfunctioned.
Ricky: "Oh crap. I think the gearbox is broken."
Takuma: "I knew it. Dual-clutch gearboxes are fragile. I guess we have to call it a day."
The car returns and the two step out.
Takanori: "Over already?"
Takuma: "The gearbox malfunctioned."
Ricky: "I could not change gears."
Takanori: "Shoot. A dual-clutch transmission is an expensive piece, you know!?"
Takuma: "I know. And you can't expect VW to give it to you in an instant."
Ricky: "What shall we do?"
Takuma: "I don't know. Let's head back. We'll talk in the house."
Upon arrival, Alessandro notices the team's gloomy faces.
Alessandro: "It seems something bad happened."
Takanori: "Yes. The VW broke down."
Alessandro: "How unfortunate. You gotta think of a back up plan quickly."
Takanori's phone rings again, this time his mother, Tomoko is on the other line.
Takanori: "Okaasan? Hey, how's things there in the shop?"
Tomoko: "Better than ever! Oh, and I am having fun with your son. Isn't Takuharu adorable?"
Takanori: "Glad to hear it. Hmmmmm.... may I ask you something?"
Tomoko: "What is it, dear?"
Takanori: "Is your Lancia Stratos still in one piece?"
Tomoko: "It seems fine. Though remember, one tire is missing already; and there is rust all over the body."
Takanori: "Perfect! Hey, can you bring it here to Italy? I need it!"
Tomoko: "What for?"
Takanori: "Alessandro-san will restore it! We'll use it in rallying!"
Tomoko: "Okay then. I will send it there. Just take care, okay?"
Takanori: "You too. Bye!"
Tomoko: "Bye!"
The call ends with a gleeful Takanori.
Takanori: "Guys! I have good news! Mom will send over her Stratos here!"
Takuma: "Her car? Heh, nice move, Mom."
Ricky: "Why?"
Takuma: "The Lancia Stratos was once feared in the world of rallying. It's a force to be reckoned with."
Ricky: "Is that so? No wonder it has been a collector item."
Takanori: "Yossha! We're back in business!"
End of Page 6
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 7 - Opening Up
As soon as the Stratos arrived in Italy, Alessandro is stuck in his garage restoring it. Ricky is staring at the restoration work. Takuma approaches Ricky and gives the latter a pat on the shoulder.
Takuma: "Excited?"
Ricky: "It's just beautiful. I am already imagining how it would look like once the restoration is done."
Takuma: "That's my mother's Stratos. My mom used to be a race car driver in her heyday."
Ricky: "Seems that your family has racing roots, huh?"
Takuma: "Indeed."
Ricky: "Who could be the fastest, you think?"
Takuma: "It's.... Takanori."
Ricky: "Eh??? You two raced already?"
Takuma: "Yes. His determination was his weapon against me."
Alessandro: "Seems you two have a very lovely chat."
Takuma: "Alessandro, when do you think it would be done?"
Alessandro: "A couple of weeks perhaps. I don't know. You can test her once I'm done restoring it, but I'll tune it for rallying."
Takuma: "We still have time."
Alessandro: "I just got a call from a friend yesterday. The Top Gun will send out Romeo Castillo as their rallying driver."
Ricky: "Romeo Castillo?"
Alessandro: "Romeo Castillo specializes in touring car racing and rallying. But he is an expert on the latter."
Takuma: "That would be a worthy opponent."
Alessandro: "That guy is rather hot-blooded and has a stubborn pride."
Ricky: "Noted."
Takuma: "His overconfidence... we'll use it against him."
********************************************************************************************************************
At evening, while everyone is asleep, Nobuhiko is using his laptop and Alessandro's Wi-Fi to surf the internet. He visits a Japanese website just to check out what's going on back home. Upon scrolling down, however, he sees pictures of Kasumi in bikini and some are nude photos with a middle-aged man. The news spread like wildfire in Japan that a woman named Kasumi is pregnant after engaging in Enjo Kosai. Nobuhiko clenches his right fist, crushing the empty paper cup of coffee he drank.
Nobuhiko: "Why, Kasumi? Why? How could you do this? Why keep it? I'm upset, because... because... because... Oh dammit, what's this warm feeling?"
He closes the laptop and heads to his bed. He is looking up the ceiling after lying down, thinking of Kasumi.
Nobuhiko: "You're an important person to me, Kasumi. You could just relay to me your problems... No need to hide it from me. I could not tell you my true feelings because I'm not strong enough to tell it. And I'm going to die soon..."
Then Takanori suddenly wakes up and looks at Nobuhiko.
Takanori: "Still awake?"
Nobuhiko: "I'm about to go to sleep."
Takanori: "Seems that you have a problem there, buddy. Well, the evening is long."
The two rise up from their beds and just sit.
Nobuhiko: "What are you going to do if you have little time left? How about the people close to you?"
Takanori: "Why ask that?"
Nobuhiko: "Everyone is bound to die. One will die soon, while the other will die in the future. Everyone is wondering about it too."
Takanori: "I guess you have to live the day like it's your last! Always smile to everyone, especially the people important to you."
Nobuhiko: "I see. No wonder you make friends easily."
Takanori: "You know what, you are a very wonderful person. Look at what you achieved so far, it's because of your drive to succeed. Your father really inspired you, huh?"
Nobuhiko: "Of course. But you know, I am satisfied already. And also, I have realized that I focus too much on my goal, that I tend to forget my loved ones."
Takanori: "You need to balance everything out in life, you know? Yeah, I did notice that before, that you are too preoccupied of fulfilling your father's dream. You know what, he's very happy for you from above. Sometimes I look at the starry sky and think of my father."
Nobuhiko: "My father used to play tennis with me when I was 5. Even though the racket was heavy, I'm having fun. And also, he makes good breakfast."
Takanori: "I guess our fathers have something in common. They make good breakfast. Hehehehe..."
Nobuhiko: "Yeah. I'm sure we want them on our sides right now. We want them to inspire us."
Takanori: "True. You know, we can be best buddies! We have some things in common too! Haha!"
The two performed a brofist before they go to sleep.
End of Page 7
As soon as the Stratos arrived in Italy, Alessandro is stuck in his garage restoring it. Ricky is staring at the restoration work. Takuma approaches Ricky and gives the latter a pat on the shoulder.
Takuma: "Excited?"
Ricky: "It's just beautiful. I am already imagining how it would look like once the restoration is done."
Takuma: "That's my mother's Stratos. My mom used to be a race car driver in her heyday."
Ricky: "Seems that your family has racing roots, huh?"
Takuma: "Indeed."
Ricky: "Who could be the fastest, you think?"
Takuma: "It's.... Takanori."
Ricky: "Eh??? You two raced already?"
Takuma: "Yes. His determination was his weapon against me."
Alessandro: "Seems you two have a very lovely chat."
Takuma: "Alessandro, when do you think it would be done?"
Alessandro: "A couple of weeks perhaps. I don't know. You can test her once I'm done restoring it, but I'll tune it for rallying."
Takuma: "We still have time."
Alessandro: "I just got a call from a friend yesterday. The Top Gun will send out Romeo Castillo as their rallying driver."
Ricky: "Romeo Castillo?"
Alessandro: "Romeo Castillo specializes in touring car racing and rallying. But he is an expert on the latter."
Takuma: "That would be a worthy opponent."
Alessandro: "That guy is rather hot-blooded and has a stubborn pride."
Ricky: "Noted."
Takuma: "His overconfidence... we'll use it against him."
********************************************************************************************************************
At evening, while everyone is asleep, Nobuhiko is using his laptop and Alessandro's Wi-Fi to surf the internet. He visits a Japanese website just to check out what's going on back home. Upon scrolling down, however, he sees pictures of Kasumi in bikini and some are nude photos with a middle-aged man. The news spread like wildfire in Japan that a woman named Kasumi is pregnant after engaging in Enjo Kosai. Nobuhiko clenches his right fist, crushing the empty paper cup of coffee he drank.
Nobuhiko: "Why, Kasumi? Why? How could you do this? Why keep it? I'm upset, because... because... because... Oh dammit, what's this warm feeling?"
He closes the laptop and heads to his bed. He is looking up the ceiling after lying down, thinking of Kasumi.
Nobuhiko: "You're an important person to me, Kasumi. You could just relay to me your problems... No need to hide it from me. I could not tell you my true feelings because I'm not strong enough to tell it. And I'm going to die soon..."
Then Takanori suddenly wakes up and looks at Nobuhiko.
Takanori: "Still awake?"
Nobuhiko: "I'm about to go to sleep."
Takanori: "Seems that you have a problem there, buddy. Well, the evening is long."
The two rise up from their beds and just sit.
Nobuhiko: "What are you going to do if you have little time left? How about the people close to you?"
Takanori: "Why ask that?"
Nobuhiko: "Everyone is bound to die. One will die soon, while the other will die in the future. Everyone is wondering about it too."
Takanori: "I guess you have to live the day like it's your last! Always smile to everyone, especially the people important to you."
Nobuhiko: "I see. No wonder you make friends easily."
Takanori: "You know what, you are a very wonderful person. Look at what you achieved so far, it's because of your drive to succeed. Your father really inspired you, huh?"
Nobuhiko: "Of course. But you know, I am satisfied already. And also, I have realized that I focus too much on my goal, that I tend to forget my loved ones."
Takanori: "You need to balance everything out in life, you know? Yeah, I did notice that before, that you are too preoccupied of fulfilling your father's dream. You know what, he's very happy for you from above. Sometimes I look at the starry sky and think of my father."
Nobuhiko: "My father used to play tennis with me when I was 5. Even though the racket was heavy, I'm having fun. And also, he makes good breakfast."
Takanori: "I guess our fathers have something in common. They make good breakfast. Hehehehe..."
Nobuhiko: "Yeah. I'm sure we want them on our sides right now. We want them to inspire us."
Takanori: "True. You know, we can be best buddies! We have some things in common too! Haha!"
The two performed a brofist before they go to sleep.
End of Page 7
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 8 - STRATOSpheric
The next day, Ricky wakes early in the morning and takes a shower. After that, he dresses up and heads outside to catch some cold morning air. He also takes a glance of Nobuhiko's Supra parked at the garage.
Ricky: "Damn, that Supra is just... mean."
Upon looking at the right, he sees Alessandro sleeping on a bed just beside the Stratos. The car is almost done, with just a few nuts and bolts left to install.
Ricky: "Woah... Someone's too dedicated. But still, that Stratos is one heck of a beauty!"
Takuma: "Indeed."
Ricky: "Woah! You surprised me there!"
Takuma: "Nothing can stop Alessandro when he is really on it. He loves my Mom's Stratos. Though humans do need to sleep. But look at how the restoration work progressed."
Ricky: "Can't wait to drive it."
Takuma: "Ohoho... The question is, can you control her?"
Ricky: "Why?"
Takuma: "Mom told me that it's a demanding car to drive... on tarmac. What more if you drive that on the dirt?"
Ricky: "I thought mid-engined cars provide ultimate handling?"
Takuma: "That could be true, but the Stratos is just as scary to drive as the Ferraris and Lamborghinis of the past. Look at how small it is. The short wheelbase is also a recipe for oversteer. The steering could be sharp, but you could easily lose control. Add another fact that it has no driver aids that can save you."
Ricky: "Damn..."
Takuma: "I'll help you brush up your skills. Don't worry, I'll teach everything I learned from your father."
Ricky: "Salamat Po!"
Takuma: "Wa... walang anuman? Am I right?"
Ricky: "You're right."
*******************************************************************************************
In Tuscany, The Top Gun is prepping the Evo 4 that Romeo will use for the season.
Gina: "For the first time, you have a nice taste, Romeo. I like the Evo 4."
Romeo: "Unfortunately though, that's the only proper rally car I found in the lot."
Gina: "Anyways, expect the Dream Alliance to show up again."
Romeo: "They'll lose again, for sure."
Hiroyuki: "Don't assume such things. The battle hasn't started yet. Perhaps you haven't learned much. That team's members are not just wannabes."
Romeo: "Alright old man, what do you want?"
Hiroyuki: "If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the results of a hundred battles. All warfare is based on deception."
Romeo: "Whatever, old man. Thanks for the advice."
Hiroyuki: "Gambari yo."
*******************************************************************************************************************************
A couple of days later...
The fully-restored Stratos hits the dirt. Behind the wheel is Ricky, who is struggling to keep the car in control.
Ricky: "Woah!"
Ricky: "You're right, Takuma-san. This is proven to be a handful!"
Takuma: "Told ya, you little twit."
The car oversteers on the next corner, Ricky focuses on countersteering.
Ricky: "Whoa! Gotta feather the throttle and countersteer with this thing!"
Takuma: "Enough of your complaining, you blithering idiot!"
Ricky: "Wait, why are you talking like that?"
Takuma: "I'm just drilling all of your father's motivational words to you. That's his way of mentoring..."
End of Page 8
The next day, Ricky wakes early in the morning and takes a shower. After that, he dresses up and heads outside to catch some cold morning air. He also takes a glance of Nobuhiko's Supra parked at the garage.
Ricky: "Damn, that Supra is just... mean."
Upon looking at the right, he sees Alessandro sleeping on a bed just beside the Stratos. The car is almost done, with just a few nuts and bolts left to install.
Ricky: "Woah... Someone's too dedicated. But still, that Stratos is one heck of a beauty!"
Takuma: "Indeed."
Ricky: "Woah! You surprised me there!"
Takuma: "Nothing can stop Alessandro when he is really on it. He loves my Mom's Stratos. Though humans do need to sleep. But look at how the restoration work progressed."
Ricky: "Can't wait to drive it."
Takuma: "Ohoho... The question is, can you control her?"
Ricky: "Why?"
Takuma: "Mom told me that it's a demanding car to drive... on tarmac. What more if you drive that on the dirt?"
Ricky: "I thought mid-engined cars provide ultimate handling?"
Takuma: "That could be true, but the Stratos is just as scary to drive as the Ferraris and Lamborghinis of the past. Look at how small it is. The short wheelbase is also a recipe for oversteer. The steering could be sharp, but you could easily lose control. Add another fact that it has no driver aids that can save you."
Ricky: "Damn..."
Takuma: "I'll help you brush up your skills. Don't worry, I'll teach everything I learned from your father."
Ricky: "Salamat Po!"
Takuma: "Wa... walang anuman? Am I right?"
Ricky: "You're right."
*******************************************************************************************
In Tuscany, The Top Gun is prepping the Evo 4 that Romeo will use for the season.
Gina: "For the first time, you have a nice taste, Romeo. I like the Evo 4."
Romeo: "Unfortunately though, that's the only proper rally car I found in the lot."
Gina: "Anyways, expect the Dream Alliance to show up again."
Romeo: "They'll lose again, for sure."
Hiroyuki: "Don't assume such things. The battle hasn't started yet. Perhaps you haven't learned much. That team's members are not just wannabes."
Romeo: "Alright old man, what do you want?"
Hiroyuki: "If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the results of a hundred battles. All warfare is based on deception."
Romeo: "Whatever, old man. Thanks for the advice."
Hiroyuki: "Gambari yo."
*******************************************************************************************************************************
A couple of days later...
The fully-restored Stratos hits the dirt. Behind the wheel is Ricky, who is struggling to keep the car in control.
Ricky: "Woah!"
Ricky: "You're right, Takuma-san. This is proven to be a handful!"
Takuma: "Told ya, you little twit."
The car oversteers on the next corner, Ricky focuses on countersteering.
Ricky: "Whoa! Gotta feather the throttle and countersteer with this thing!"
Takuma: "Enough of your complaining, you blithering idiot!"
Ricky: "Wait, why are you talking like that?"
Takuma: "I'm just drilling all of your father's motivational words to you. That's his way of mentoring..."
End of Page 8
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 9 - Photographic Memory
The rallying season has officially started. Plenty of people flock to Tuscany to witness the event. Aside from the time trials that took place a week ago, the organizers added a more exciting race, which is called the Dirt Duel in which two rally cars will race around the track.
The whole Dream Alliance team is present, ready with the Stratos. Ricky is very much prepared too, as if he's confident on his abilities.
Takuma: "Ready?"
Ricky: "Yes."
Takuma: "Remember, you are about to face Romeo Castillo. We did a good strategy so far. He has the fastest time of all the entrants, but you did a good job intentionally placing yourself in the 2nd place."
Ricky: "I'm cooking up something for him."
Takuma: "Hmph. Don't forget the things I taught, okay? We practiced here for weeks."
Ricky: "Understood."
Ricky gets in the Stratos. On the other side of the pit lane, Romeo also straps in his Evo 4.
Romeo: "I get to face that old clunker there? Man, don't tell me the others are pathetic."
Gina: "Good luck, crazy boy. That Stratos means serious business."
Hiroyuki: "Don't forget what I told you before, Romeo. I just hope you have that in your mind."
Romeo: "Thanks for those wonderful pieces of advice, guys. I appreciate them, heh."
James: "Keep a cool head, and you'll win."
The two cars are at the starting grid, with Romeo holding the pole position.
Romeo: "Everyone says that the Stratos is a legendary rallying machine. Doesn't seem like it, though. It looks like it's something for tarmac, not on the dirt. But still, I'll show to everyone the supremacy of 4WD!"
The light showed green, and the two cars are off to a start. The Evo 4's 4WD shows a clear advantage.
Romeo: "Does dust taste good? Tell me about it!"
Meanwhile, Takuma shows a grin while observing the race.
Takanori: "Aniki?"
Takuma: "Ricky can do it, don't worry. Romeo does not know what will hit him."
Takanori: "You and Ricky have been practicing here for weeks."
Takuma: "Exactly, I taught him everything about rallying."
Takanori: "I see. But in a duel like this, Ricky does not see anything since the dust kicked by the Evo will make him blind."
Takuma: "Exactly. That's why the two of us were practicing here for weeks. Ricky claims that he has an excellent photographic memory, and he can use that as an advantage now that he is very familiar on this track."
Takanori: "So... can that negate his disadvantage?"
Takuma: "Absolutely."
Takanori: "Amazing."
Takuma: "Aside from that, Alessandro also tuned the Stratos to keep up with the Evo. Power hasn't increased much, but he focused on the chassis."
Back in the race, Romeo is surprised to see the Stratos close on his Evo's back.
Romeo: "How could this be? You should be blind and lost control!"
Ricky: "No matter how much dirt you throw on this car, I can visualize the road ahead!"
Ricky: "Though this is still quite a handful. I gotta control my accelerator and steering inputs."
Romeo: "This is impossible! An old RWD car keeping up with a technologically advanced 4WD car. This is embarrassing!"
Gina and Hiroyuki see the two cars close to each other as they pass by them at the start of the final lap.
Hiroyuki: "He forgot it. Oh well, kids these days."
Gina: "Well, what did you say to him?"
Hiroyuki: "That he should know his opponent first. If you know your opponent and yourself, then you will win a hundred battles. All war is based on deception."
Gina: "So, even Sun Tzu's principles are applied here?"
Hiroyuki: "Exactly."
Hiroyuki: "As painful as it sounds, he will lose..."
End of Page 9
The rallying season has officially started. Plenty of people flock to Tuscany to witness the event. Aside from the time trials that took place a week ago, the organizers added a more exciting race, which is called the Dirt Duel in which two rally cars will race around the track.
The whole Dream Alliance team is present, ready with the Stratos. Ricky is very much prepared too, as if he's confident on his abilities.
Takuma: "Ready?"
Ricky: "Yes."
Takuma: "Remember, you are about to face Romeo Castillo. We did a good strategy so far. He has the fastest time of all the entrants, but you did a good job intentionally placing yourself in the 2nd place."
Ricky: "I'm cooking up something for him."
Takuma: "Hmph. Don't forget the things I taught, okay? We practiced here for weeks."
Ricky: "Understood."
Ricky gets in the Stratos. On the other side of the pit lane, Romeo also straps in his Evo 4.
Romeo: "I get to face that old clunker there? Man, don't tell me the others are pathetic."
Gina: "Good luck, crazy boy. That Stratos means serious business."
Hiroyuki: "Don't forget what I told you before, Romeo. I just hope you have that in your mind."
Romeo: "Thanks for those wonderful pieces of advice, guys. I appreciate them, heh."
James: "Keep a cool head, and you'll win."
The two cars are at the starting grid, with Romeo holding the pole position.
Romeo: "Everyone says that the Stratos is a legendary rallying machine. Doesn't seem like it, though. It looks like it's something for tarmac, not on the dirt. But still, I'll show to everyone the supremacy of 4WD!"
The light showed green, and the two cars are off to a start. The Evo 4's 4WD shows a clear advantage.
Romeo: "Does dust taste good? Tell me about it!"
Meanwhile, Takuma shows a grin while observing the race.
Takanori: "Aniki?"
Takuma: "Ricky can do it, don't worry. Romeo does not know what will hit him."
Takanori: "You and Ricky have been practicing here for weeks."
Takuma: "Exactly, I taught him everything about rallying."
Takanori: "I see. But in a duel like this, Ricky does not see anything since the dust kicked by the Evo will make him blind."
Takuma: "Exactly. That's why the two of us were practicing here for weeks. Ricky claims that he has an excellent photographic memory, and he can use that as an advantage now that he is very familiar on this track."
Takanori: "So... can that negate his disadvantage?"
Takuma: "Absolutely."
Takanori: "Amazing."
Takuma: "Aside from that, Alessandro also tuned the Stratos to keep up with the Evo. Power hasn't increased much, but he focused on the chassis."
Back in the race, Romeo is surprised to see the Stratos close on his Evo's back.
Romeo: "How could this be? You should be blind and lost control!"
Ricky: "No matter how much dirt you throw on this car, I can visualize the road ahead!"
Ricky: "Though this is still quite a handful. I gotta control my accelerator and steering inputs."
Romeo: "This is impossible! An old RWD car keeping up with a technologically advanced 4WD car. This is embarrassing!"
Gina and Hiroyuki see the two cars close to each other as they pass by them at the start of the final lap.
Hiroyuki: "He forgot it. Oh well, kids these days."
Gina: "Well, what did you say to him?"
Hiroyuki: "That he should know his opponent first. If you know your opponent and yourself, then you will win a hundred battles. All war is based on deception."
Gina: "So, even Sun Tzu's principles are applied here?"
Hiroyuki: "Exactly."
Hiroyuki: "As painful as it sounds, he will lose..."
End of Page 9
Last edited:
- 5,809
- Manila, PH
- TakuKanonji22
Page 10 - Takuma's Soft Side
Romeo: "I can't believe it! This is embarrassing!"
Ricky: "You know what, I'm having fun!"
Then the Evo overspeeds through the hairpin, resulting in understeer. There is a big room for the Stratos to overtake.
Romeo: "Mierda! That's it, no more Mr. Nice Guy!"
Using the accelerator techniques that Takuma taught him, the Stratos shows off a composed drift at the hairpin. The Evo kept on understeering as a result of overspeeding due to Romeo's carelessness.
Ricky: "Just play on the pedal, inch by inch."
With improved power and a large weight advantage over the Evo, the Stratos also spreads the gap and kicks up dirt this time on the Evo. The tables have turned.
Romeo: "It's fast! And I can't see a thing!"
At the last corner, Ricky shows off another drift especially in front of his teammates.
Nobuhiko: "Amazing car control. Takuma-san really is an expert on that, and he passed it on to Ricky-san."
Takanori: "Woah... I could never drift like that in rallying."
Takuma: "That's my boy!"
And the Stratos crosses the finish line first. The crowd take pictures and applaud.
Ricky: "Ayos! I did it!"
Romeo: "This is crazy!"
**********************************************************
At evening, the Dream Alliance celebrate victory in Alessandro's home. Ricky is overwhelmed by the victory he achieved.
Ricky: "Man, I never felt this happy."
Takuma: "You're famous now. And besides, the Dream Alliance will continue its quest for glory."
Takanori: "Yeah!"
Ricky: "And also, the prize money we got is just a lot!"
Takanori: "That'll be added to our team's funds."
Suddenly, Takuma's smartphone rings. Takuma excuses himself and heads out to the garden to answer the call.
Takuma: "Hello?... Oh it's you.... Really?.... Since when?..... You know what, I'll be there.... Just hang on, okay? See ya."
Takuma heads back inside with a gloomy face. He heads upstairs to the guest room. Ricky notices it and he follows him.
Then Takuma goes to the balcony of the room, looking at the full moon.
Ricky: "What's wrong? You stormed out in an instant."
Takuma: "You should just enjoy the party downstairs."
Ricky: "Look, you have to spill out what's bugging you, okay? And besides, we're friends, right?"
Takuma: "Sigh... Ricky, it's a long story. Would you mind if I tell it?"
Ricky: "Sure, no problem."
The two sit on their beds.
Takuma: "Currently, I donate to a charitable organization in Japan. The organization in question has orphans. There is one kid there that... just melts my heart whenever I see him."
Ricky: "Who is that kid?"
Takuma: "His name is Ben Nakamura. He is a 4-year old half-British, half-Japanese boy whose parents died in the Sendai Tsunami and Earthquake. His parents died while protecting him. That boy reminds me of your father not only by his name but also he is just as harsh as your father, especially to his playmates. But he is looked up by many."
Ricky: "I see."
Takuma: "Right now... he is sick. And he needs an operation to make him well. I will go back to Japan to save him. You stay here, okay? I'll be there for a while."
Ricky: "Just carry on, okay? I'll tell Takanori-san about this. And I guess it's okay to share your soft side. But you look tough on the outside, you know?"
Takuma: "You're the first person to say that."
Ricky: "Really? Anyways, I hope he gets well soon."
Takuma: "I'll do everything to save him. Ore ni makasero!"
End of Page 10
Romeo: "I can't believe it! This is embarrassing!"
Ricky: "You know what, I'm having fun!"
Then the Evo overspeeds through the hairpin, resulting in understeer. There is a big room for the Stratos to overtake.
Romeo: "Mierda! That's it, no more Mr. Nice Guy!"
Using the accelerator techniques that Takuma taught him, the Stratos shows off a composed drift at the hairpin. The Evo kept on understeering as a result of overspeeding due to Romeo's carelessness.
Ricky: "Just play on the pedal, inch by inch."
With improved power and a large weight advantage over the Evo, the Stratos also spreads the gap and kicks up dirt this time on the Evo. The tables have turned.
Romeo: "It's fast! And I can't see a thing!"
At the last corner, Ricky shows off another drift especially in front of his teammates.
Nobuhiko: "Amazing car control. Takuma-san really is an expert on that, and he passed it on to Ricky-san."
Takanori: "Woah... I could never drift like that in rallying."
Takuma: "That's my boy!"
And the Stratos crosses the finish line first. The crowd take pictures and applaud.
Ricky: "Ayos! I did it!"
Romeo: "This is crazy!"
**********************************************************
At evening, the Dream Alliance celebrate victory in Alessandro's home. Ricky is overwhelmed by the victory he achieved.
Ricky: "Man, I never felt this happy."
Takuma: "You're famous now. And besides, the Dream Alliance will continue its quest for glory."
Takanori: "Yeah!"
Ricky: "And also, the prize money we got is just a lot!"
Takanori: "That'll be added to our team's funds."
Suddenly, Takuma's smartphone rings. Takuma excuses himself and heads out to the garden to answer the call.
Takuma: "Hello?... Oh it's you.... Really?.... Since when?..... You know what, I'll be there.... Just hang on, okay? See ya."
Takuma heads back inside with a gloomy face. He heads upstairs to the guest room. Ricky notices it and he follows him.
Then Takuma goes to the balcony of the room, looking at the full moon.
Ricky: "What's wrong? You stormed out in an instant."
Takuma: "You should just enjoy the party downstairs."
Ricky: "Look, you have to spill out what's bugging you, okay? And besides, we're friends, right?"
Takuma: "Sigh... Ricky, it's a long story. Would you mind if I tell it?"
Ricky: "Sure, no problem."
The two sit on their beds.
Takuma: "Currently, I donate to a charitable organization in Japan. The organization in question has orphans. There is one kid there that... just melts my heart whenever I see him."
Ricky: "Who is that kid?"
Takuma: "His name is Ben Nakamura. He is a 4-year old half-British, half-Japanese boy whose parents died in the Sendai Tsunami and Earthquake. His parents died while protecting him. That boy reminds me of your father not only by his name but also he is just as harsh as your father, especially to his playmates. But he is looked up by many."
Ricky: "I see."
Takuma: "Right now... he is sick. And he needs an operation to make him well. I will go back to Japan to save him. You stay here, okay? I'll be there for a while."
Ricky: "Just carry on, okay? I'll tell Takanori-san about this. And I guess it's okay to share your soft side. But you look tough on the outside, you know?"
Takuma: "You're the first person to say that."
Ricky: "Really? Anyways, I hope he gets well soon."
Takuma: "I'll do everything to save him. Ore ni makasero!"
End of Page 10
