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Nice refresher. Just shows how far you've come since you started writing.
Takuma Gaiden II: Road to America (Pt. 2) - Page 31: LFA's Song
- Thread starter RCKakashi14
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3RD YEAR ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL - PART 2
Hello readers! This is the continuation of my 3rd year anniversary special of my Gran Turismo fan fiction. This post shall now deal with the summary of the current GT6 Era plot. While you can simply just go the OP and click the links provided for each title, I still feel the need to summarize and refresh what has happened so far. For the new readers, this could also save you from trouble of reading them all if you are strapped for time.
GT6 Era (August 2014 - Present)
Note: The Boom (which is the prequel of Reaching The Apex, set 20 years prior) is also included in the GT6 Era since the photos were taken from GT6. It started in January of 2014 but I treat it as a special title. You can comment down below if you do wish to see its summary. For now I shall focus on the present timeline.Hello readers! This is the continuation of my 3rd year anniversary special of my Gran Turismo fan fiction. This post shall now deal with the summary of the current GT6 Era plot. While you can simply just go the OP and click the links provided for each title, I still feel the need to summarize and refresh what has happened so far. For the new readers, this could also save you from trouble of reading them all if you are strapped for time.
GT6 Era (August 2014 - Present)
- The FIA GT3 Championship -
Those robots are products of the NH Program, which was taught to be perished for good. Someone from behind the scenes have definitely revived it. The members of the team in question are - Nina Hanne, Noel Honore, Nicholas Ho, and Nash Hall who were led by a mysterious cloaked figure.
The Dream Alliance didn't have a good start in the championship when the SLS broke down in the first round, making Takuma upset and guilty because he thought it's his fault for letting the team down. The team enjoys a brief break after the first round, but they join a rallying event to prevent them from being idle. Yuki Kanonji pilots Sir Ben's Audi Quattro rally car, and manages to defeat Nicholas Ho during the event. The robot has been burned out and its damage is irreversible as it exhausted all of its energy during the duel.
In the second round of the championship, the team manages to score a win thanks to Nobuhiko. In a spark, their decades-long rivalry that spanned from their fathers have revived, and Takuma swore to himself that he shall land a win for his late father's sake.
Meanwhile, Stephen has gotten desperate for a win, and so the mysterious cloaked figure takes advantage of the situation by offering a free sample of a vial that contains the same nanoparticles that the robots have. Stephen hesitatingly accepts the vial and ingested some of it. He noticed a boost in his body performance in Round 3, which made things tougher for Takuma. Takuma then unleashes his true potential for a brief moment and finally scores a victory on his part.
4th Round, and this time Hiroyuki sends his son Nobuyuki to finally apply his months of training. It turns out that Nobuyuki has incredible stamina, which he demonstrates during the race. He simply dropped his pace at the beginning and then unleashed everything eventually. The strategy paid off and they bag another victory.
The team then returns to Japan for the final round to be held in Suzuka. However, Takuma, Nobuhiko, Rob and Nigel sprang into action as they are to save Stephen who was abducted by the team Silverblade. They manage to unveil the identity of the mysterious cloaked figure who turns out to be NH3 - a robot using the old body of Nobuhiko. After their struggle, Takuma and Nobuhiko managed to destroy the robot while Nina Hanne and her human brother Adrian escaped to start a new life. Stephen is taken to the hospital as he was drugged.
Come final round, and Nobuyuki decided to disregard his father's orders as he is to prove that he is also a force to be reckoned with in Suzuka. However, a new enemy arrives, in the name of a British professor named Bill Murray. Bill takes charge of the Team Silverblade. Even though Noel Honore was destroyed at the end of the race, Bill resumes the project and vows to return. The Dream Alliance takes the overall win.
- A Father's Will -
The Dream Alliance's celebration was cut short as they hear rumors of a futuristic dark purple supercar targeting street racers. Eventually, Takanori was one of its victims and urges his twin to join in the action as well. While Takanori sent his brand-new Corvette C7 to WEST Tuning shop, Takuma receives his one-off Pagani Huayra originally tailored for Sir Ben.
It turns out that the mysterious car was also a one-off - a Nissan 2020 developed by Kaido and... Michiharu Kanonji. However, only Michiharu's spirit animates the race suit and helmet. The twins, with the help of Jintei, encountered that ominous supercar and took it on. Jintei quits the race as his R34 overheated its engine, while the twins managed to finally defeat the opponent. Then they discovered that it was their father piloting the said car, and had left an emotional message specifically for Takuma. The car was meant to be a gift.
- Dysfunctional Family -
Meanwhile, in London, Rob hears news of Professor Bill Murray's involvement in the NH Project. To start off, he planted a tracking device to Nina Hanne and acquired her data so as to find out Bill's whereabouts.
While waiting for the information, Rob helps his little brother Dennis prepare for the World Time Attack Championship. However Dennis met his ex-girlfriend Rebecca Crewe who also turns out to be his opponent. Nash Hall is to represent Silverblade.
In the first round in Ascari Race Resort, Rob detected Bill's henchmen and disposes of them single-handedly. He discovered that they are to abduct Dennis under Bill's orders. After Dennis' victory in the first round, Rob found out from his superior that his mother Amelia Hatch is also involved thanks to the data found from Nina. Amelia was apprehended and Rob interrogates her, with rage in his heart.
This is where the Hatch family troubles were revealed. In his youth, Rob had not been in speaking terms with his mother ever since the divorce. Rob went along with his father, Brandon. However, tragedy strikes as the young Rob witnessed his father's murder in the hands of Bill. The cause of Brandon and Amelia's divorce was that the latter has been caught cheating as she sees the professor in secret.
With the hatred burning in his heart, Rob resolved to protect Dennis ever since. Even before he started his racing career, Rob enlisted in the military in order to muster strength, and eventually made it in MI6.
Now that his family's problem have arrived in full circle, Rob decides to take action and protect Dennis at all costs. First, he forces Dennis to skip the 2nd round, much to the little brother's chagrin. They instead focus for the third round which will be held in Tsukuba Circuit in Japan. Upon arriving, Rob asks a favor from Takanori to watch over Dennis, while he is to settle things with Bill once and for all.
But first, Rob takes Dennis to Suzuka, in order to bring back some fighting spirit as he breaks Nobuhiko Hiramoto's lap record using his KTM X-Bow R.
In the 3rd round, Takanori does as what Rob asked. Dennis performed exceptionally well, beating Rebecca and Nash Hall once again.
Meanwhile, Rob enlists the help of Takuma for the mission of taking down Bill. In an unexpected twist, Amelia decided to help out as well, in order to heal the wounds of their family. The trio break their way in, with Amelia feigning capture of Rob and presenting him to her former lover. The mother and son eventually turn on to Bill and they took him down.
Seeing good faith from his mother, Rob found it in his heart to forgive her. Then upon returning to UK, Dennis and Rebecca finally settle their differences in a race with Dennis taking the win. Even though the reward was having a spot in a racing team, he gives it to Rebecca as he thinks that he has so much to learn.
- The Passion -
After the testing session of the new Honda NSX at the Nurburgring, Yuki Kanonji is given a vacation, along with taking the car with him - after all the NSX does belong to him as his late mother's gift. He takes advantage of that opportunity by circling around Europe with that car. He eventually arrives in Italy, and having deduced that it is a wonderful country, he stays. Yuki then enters the Monza circuit and just as he is about to get in the car, he encounters Alessandro Rossi, and his nephew named Giuseppe. Giuseppe strikes interest for Yuki, as he is younger than him. Yuki sets off to do some laps, and Giuseppe senses a kindred spirit from Yuki.
It turns out that Giuseppe was once an aspiring painter. But after his parents' passing, the passion for painting has burned out and was lured into the world of racing thanks to his uncle taking care of him. His cousin, Millena made attempts of convincing him to follow his dream, and what truly makes him happy. But because of Alessandro's exploits, Giuseppe becomes more fascinated in speed, and has developed skills in driving.
Once again, Yuki and Giuseppe meet. The two then go to a mountain pass on the latter's request. Yuki demonstrates his ability, and that made Giuseppe wonder what real passion is and if he could ever have one.
After another driving session with Alessandro, Giuseppe intends to challenge Yuki in a dangerous mountain pass duel much to the disappointment of Millena. With that, Giuseppe once again looks back to his paintings in his room, which further increases his doubts about finding his true happiness. Yuki finds out about this and willingly accepts the challenge. During the duel, Yuki displays his skill as a mountain pass driver, and as well as showing to Giuseppe how dangerous racing can be. This made Giuseppe rethink about his future, and deduced that he finally found his passion which is painting.
It turns out that Giuseppe was once an aspiring painter. But after his parents' passing, the passion for painting has burned out and was lured into the world of racing thanks to his uncle taking care of him. His cousin, Millena made attempts of convincing him to follow his dream, and what truly makes him happy. But because of Alessandro's exploits, Giuseppe becomes more fascinated in speed, and has developed skills in driving.
Once again, Yuki and Giuseppe meet. The two then go to a mountain pass on the latter's request. Yuki demonstrates his ability, and that made Giuseppe wonder what real passion is and if he could ever have one.
After another driving session with Alessandro, Giuseppe intends to challenge Yuki in a dangerous mountain pass duel much to the disappointment of Millena. With that, Giuseppe once again looks back to his paintings in his room, which further increases his doubts about finding his true happiness. Yuki finds out about this and willingly accepts the challenge. During the duel, Yuki displays his skill as a mountain pass driver, and as well as showing to Giuseppe how dangerous racing can be. This made Giuseppe rethink about his future, and deduced that he finally found his passion which is painting.
- The Fastest Tifosi -
Back to Takuma's side of the story, he gets continuous e-mails from someone named Alfredo Agostini. It turns out that Alfredo is the self-proclaimed Fastest Tifosi, and always argues to Takuma online the greatness of Ferrari cars. Annoyed and intending to settle things once and for all, he prepares by going to Pagani's headquarters in Modena. He is then informed of his Zonda R's upgrades and was allowed to drive Horacio Pagani's personal Zonda for a while. Having being impressed by it, Takuma then goes to Sierra in Spain and wonders why some circuit paraphernalia such as clipping points and Armco barriers around the road. While shopping, Alfredo shows up and insults Takuma. The two engage in a race, with Alfredo losing control of his Enzo. Alfredo's mother, Carmela turns out to be the person responsible for turning Sierra into a racetrack as she is to host a time rally. Alfredo takes that opportunity to race Takuma once again, this time in his FXX. He also found out his mother's history and how she was defeated by Takuma's mother.
For the second time, the two men duel in Sierra. FXX vs. Zonda R. While the FXX initially got the upper hand, the Zonda R's increased power and improved downforce levels turned the tables. Once again, Alfredo loses control of his car and is defeated. Takuma then gives him a lecture about the difference in skill between a race car driver and a tycoon who simply bought a fast car.
With that settled, Takuma moves on to Nurburgring, to set a lap record for his Zonda R. While he did beat his old record, he failed to beat Rob Hatch's record time.
For the second time, the two men duel in Sierra. FXX vs. Zonda R. While the FXX initially got the upper hand, the Zonda R's increased power and improved downforce levels turned the tables. Once again, Alfredo loses control of his car and is defeated. Takuma then gives him a lecture about the difference in skill between a race car driver and a tycoon who simply bought a fast car.
With that settled, Takuma moves on to Nurburgring, to set a lap record for his Zonda R. While he did beat his old record, he failed to beat Rob Hatch's record time.
- Clash of Robots -
In London, Rob was given a new assignment - to track down Nina Hanne and as well as bringing her back home as it turns out that Adrian was looking for her. Another task is to retrieve Nash Hall as there were two people fighting for its ownership - Martin Banks and Francis Gautier. Martin was the one who bought Nash from the NH Program while Francis intends to extract the Nanoparticle data from the robot to boost his driving skill in order to fight off his aging body.
Rob flew to Los Angeles. There, he is to act as an event receptionist who shall attend to arriving guests at Martin's party in a luxurious hotel. During the party, Francis makes a surprise appearance, and orders his men to capture Martin. Rob gets caught in the action, and decides to fight back and shoot down Francis' men. However, one of them shoots a grenade and Rob narrowly escapes the explosion by crashing through the window and fall on a great height. Though he grapples his way back up to an empty hotel room is about to regroup with his partner Mark.
Upon getting exiting the hotel, however, he encounters Sayuki. It turns out that CIA is after Nina and Nash as well, but intending to destroy them. Both agents clash, and Rob prevails when he knocked out Sayuki.
The next day, Mark and Rob meet a tuning shop owner to borrow a car for the mission. They try it out in Willow Springs and encounter Martin. After a brief race, Rob gets an invitation to a race in Laguna Seca. Upon finding out the type of cars his opponents would use, he orders Ricky to send his KTM X-Bow R to use for the event.
But on the next day, Rob finds out that Nina is on the run and follows her. It turns out that Nina intends to destroy Nash in order to set things right. The two robots clash, but once again Francis' men arrive and destroy Nash's home. Rob was able to save Nina and take her to the hotel. He asks the female robot to stay put while he searches for Nash.
During the race in Laguna Seca, Rob is to take care of the racing while Mark was tasked to steal all the vials that Martin intended to reward for the winners. Francis was also a participant, but even though he drives the Pescarolo C60 Hybride LMP1 car, he was soundly defeated by Rob. But that didn't matter for Francis since his men had successfully captured Nash. Martin goes on a frantic search.
Upon returning to Los Angeles, Nina offers to help Rob track down Nash as she still recognizes his signal patterns. When they are about to do so, however, a CIA Agent storms in and the two escape. But they were immediately surrounded by other agents led by Sayuki. The pair fight together, but Nina got shut down in the process. Alone, Rob takes down the remaining agents and threatens Sayuki to kill her if she won't let Nina go.
Rob then takes the deactivated Nina, and lets the IT team of the MI6 access her data in order to track down Nash's whereabouts. After some time, they are able to locate Nash in Francis' mansion in Hollywood hills. Rob heads there, and sneaked his way in. But the guards were alerted of his presence and intercept Rob. Rob fights them off, and that provided the opportunity for Francis to escape along with Nash.
With distractions dealt with, Rob chases down Francis throughout the city. The chase ended with Nash self-destructing, killing Francis as well. Rob watches Francis' Veyron burn and then reports to his superior.
- The Eternal Rivalry -
For quite some time, Takuma has been preparing himself to beat Nobuhiko. His rival knows of this as well, and does the same.
It has been 30 years since their fathers had an epic duel in Suzuka, but it was a draw. The sons decided that it must be settled. On Takuma's end, he successfully restored his Mazda RX-500 powered by a custom 3-Rotor unit from RE Amemiya. Nobuhiko planned to use his Toyota FT-1 that he received from his father.
On the day of the duel, every racing fan in Japan go to Suzuka and watch, including Kazunori Yamauchi. The battle was intense, with the two racers giving everything he got. The end got exciting as both cars spun out at the very last turn. However, Takuma manages to perform a J-turn to the finish line, finally setting the closure of the rivalry that left unsettled for decades. Upon arriving home, Takuma sees Sir Shaw's Mazda Furai stashed in his garage.
A month later, Hiroyuki secretly took the FT-1 and turned it into a racing machine. However, he senses a much bigger threat on the horizon - The Vision Gran Turismo Project.
- Three New Stars -
Hiroyuki orders the team to gather, and informs them about the team's manpower issues. They have to gather at least three new members. Takuma and Rob head to Europe while Takanori solely heads to USA for the task.
In UK, Rob finds fascination to Owen Watson, a barista in a coffee shop who happens to have alignment in cars. Owen was then put to the test, and after passing three tests, he is welcomed to the team. Unknown to both Rob and Owen, however, is that they are half-siblings...
Then Rob is given another assignment by the MI6. He is to search for Mauricio Salvador, a well-known car designer from Portugal. After Owen winning the race in Ascari, a woman by the name of Maria approaches them, and expresses her desire to be a part of the team as well. Rob once again puts the neophyte into the test, a rain race in Spa. Maria prevails, and explains the reasons for her participation - she is the daughter of Mauricio, and suspects Kazunori Yamauchi as the mastermind behind her father's disappearance. Seeing this as a lead in his investigation, Rob assists Maria. Eventually, one of Kazunori's henchmen demanded her father's design sketches. However, they see this as deception and they decide to deceive him back in order to capture that man. The plan works and Rob interrogates the henchman.
They all return to Japan along with the new members to meet Hiroyuki. They were briefed on how their team runs, and as well as their next step - which is to stop the Vision Gran Turismo Project led by none other than Kazunori Yamauchi. The revelation initially sends Takanori into disbelief, seeing that his greatest idol would be a threat to the future of racing.
Takanori then heads to America in order to recruit the last needed member. He encounters Andy Midfield who apologizes for the late delivery of Sir Ben's Plymouth Hemi Cuda. With that taken care of, Andy returns to his work, until his ex-girlfriend Melissa talks to him. She then reveals that his best friend Alan Long was responsible for rigging a street race two years ago. Alan had expressed his desire to Andy to be a pro race car driver by joining the Vision GT project. However, doubts start to enter Andy's mind and confronts Alan about what happened two years ago.
Alan's father, Zhang, insists that the boys must settle their differences through a race. As planned, the boys initiate a duel in Willow Springs - Streets of Willow. Alan resorted to cheat, but those were thwarted. Andy takes the win and Alan simply disappeared. Andy vows to bring his friend back and joins the Dream Alliance.
- The Vision GT Saga -
With the recruitment task taken care of (and as well as having found the new Editor-In-Chief for the Motoring Monthly magazine), the Dream Alliance now focus their efforts in stopping the Vision GT Project.
They have encountered those futuristic vehicles in separate occasions. Yuki dealt with Anton Volkov who drives the Mercedes AMG VGT in the touge. Yuki gives a dose of his dangerous side to Anton, winning the race in the process. Meanwhile, Owen finally finds out about his origins, and Rob welcomed him to the Hatch family.
After that, Maria duels with a woman named Sabrina Mendez who is the test driver of the Subaru Viziv GT Vision Gran Turismo. Maria proves the superiority of a conventional four-wheel drive system and soundly defeats Sabrina. Sabrina is then arrested for her involvement in the project.
Back in Japan, the Mitsubishi XR-PHEV Vision Gran Turismo makes a return after its defeat from the Dream Alliance, but this time on the streets driven by Rasmus Ahlgren. Jintei rises up and takes action, but a young racer named Toru Tanaka makes a name for himself, after acquiring his late brother's FTO Super Touring car. Toru and Jintei work together to defeat Rasmus, who is then killed after his car hit the barrier at high speed.
In Germany, Abram Volkov takes on the Dream Alliance after learning his brother's defeat. In turn, Dream Alliance sends out the upgraded Nigel Heidelberg driving the SLS GT3 with a new engine. During the race, Abram dismisses the robot as a mere tool and felt insulted. But Nigel demonstrates his new potential and defeats Abram. Hiroyuki tells Abram how Nigel is "more human" than he is. Humiliated, Abram and Anton left, abandoning the Mercedes AMG VGT Racing Series he used in the race earlier.
The flames of war have ignited much larger, as Dennis was killed during a race against Auguste Amadieu driving the Alpine Vision Gran Turismo. Then Kazunori Yamauchi experiences the extent of Rob's anger and hatred, receiving threats and finally seeing his headquarters being destroyed single-handedly by Rob. Auguste decides to make things right, and proposes a fair duel with Rob in Silverstone. Rob uses Dennis' KTM X-Bow to show to his opponent what that race could have been. Ultimately, Rob forgives Auguste and drops the charges, knowing that Dennis wouldn't want this, and his death was just an accident.
Then the Dream Alliance returns to Japan after finding out that another Vision GT car threatens to change the face of Japanese motorsports. What's more, it is Atsuo Kobayakawa's doing, who was once Hiroyuki's rival. Rob becomes a temporary bodyguard for Hiroyuki. However Hiroyuki got abducted by Atsuo to "test" him, but he is saved by both Rob and Nobuhiko.
The old men duel it out in Fuji, with Hiroyuki unleashing Nobuhiko's racing-spec FT-1 and Atsuo driving the Lexus LF-LC VGT. Atsuo makes use of all the hybrid technology, especially the KERS. But that backfired as its overall charge got lower and lower as Hiroyuki manages to stick close. After taking the win, Hiroyuki explains how Atsuo kept on abusing the technology, stating that technology works in its best when the users are skilled with it, and that he never used KERS that was also found in the FT-1 as well.
For Hiroyuki, however, it was his last run, and decides to return as the team director not only to guide his drivers, but also the future generation.
Maria then meets a new dilemma as she is to expect a child. But she keeps that from Owen as a secret, as she believes that they are not ready and they have many things to do. But she puts that aside as Takuma meets Nikko Sakamoto's sister named Mako Sakamoto. Maria defends Takuma, but then a scandal regarding Takuma's impersonation broke out, further agitating Maria.
In the midst of trouble, Maria opens up her pregnancy to Owen, and expresses her reluctance in pushing through parenthood. This resulted to the pair arguing, with Owen storming out for a while.
But they immediately made amends and Owen assures Maria that they'll do this together. With that issue dealt with, Maria moves on to battle Mako, using the Mini Clubman VGT that her father created during his captivity. In a dangerous rain battle, she prevails over Mako, showing her newfound resolve.
That's all for the 2-part Refresher. True Muscle II is ongoing, so a summary is unnecessary.
What's in store for the future? The next one would be Takanori dealing with Kaz, to serve as the final chapter of the saga. There will also be more after that...
Thank you for taking your time to read the two posts. Hopefully they manage to refresh you as intended. But as always, if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment.
What's in store for the future? The next one would be Takanori dealing with Kaz, to serve as the final chapter of the saga. There will also be more after that...
Thank you for taking your time to read the two posts. Hopefully they manage to refresh you as intended. But as always, if you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment.
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Page 8: Shattered Bond
I'm not saying that we're rather disappointed that we fell into Alan's trap. By doing so, we are actually getting close to him as we managed to beat his pawns.
We got new info that would lead to him, and for that, it's time for us to charge. Alan, you put yourself into a delicate situation. Bravo. What's your next move?
Alan: "I may have successfully put a decoy to the Dream Alliance and then conquer the streets of LA in the process."
Alan: "My next big step? Take over the Vision GT Project. I'm done with my two lackeys. I don't intend them to be part of my success, anyway. Tools are only tools. I don't care if Dream Alliance got hold of them.
But.. why am I feeling that something is putting me down? What is this pressure I'm feeling? Is Andy still...?"
Time: 1 pm, the next day
Meanwhile, Takanori and Rob head out at the mountains to have a little run. The latter was actually asked by Hiroyuki to check on Takanori, knowing that Kazunori is here in Japan.
Rob: "Hmph. You seem okay here."
Takanori: "What are you talking about? You've been staring at me the moment I picked you up from the hotel."
Rob: "I'm sure you're aware he's here."
Takanori: "Yeah. But you know what, I could think of one possible reason why. He wouldn't go here in a heartbeat, you know?"
Rob: "I suspected as much."
Takanori: "He wants to talk to me. One way or another, he is here just to see me."
Rob: "Probably to target the weakest link in our team. And that's you. The moment you found out his doing, everything came spiraling down for you, am I right?"
Takanori could not give a response.
Rob: "Silence means yes. You are still in shock. Keep yourself together. That's what you should do for now. Who knows, maybe you'll end up clashing against him."
Location: Andy's home, Los Angeles
Time: 7 pm, the next day
Andy invited us for a barbecue dinner. I volunteered to help him cook... well, I won't allow my cooking skills to rust!
In the midst of fun, however, a red hatchback arrives. In an instant, Andy became hostile. It turns out to be Alan...
Alan: "Whoa, whoa, whoa... why with the hostile faces?"
Sparing no second, Andy punches Alan's face, and slammed him on to his car.
Andy: "How dare you show up! What do you want? Don't you think I've suffered enough?"
Alan pushes Andy away.
Alan: "THAT'S WHAT I WAS SUPPOSED TO ASK, IDIOT! JUST WHAT THE HECK AM I SUPPOSED TO DO TO STOP YOU GUYS FROM CHASING ME DOWN?! I AM JUST FOLLOWING MY DREAM!"
Andy: "Yeah, a dream that will perish others. You really are selfish, just at the fact that you used Randy and Jewels as tools."
Alan: "You're the one to blame. You and my father pushed me away. I thought that out of all people, you'll have my back. But no...
...and that made me realize that to survive life, you must rely only on yourself. Trust no one. That alone builds your armor, makes you stronger. And as long as you have the means, do not hesitate to use them on your end. I've had enough of suffering, especially coming from a simple life in China."
Andy: "That's just ridiculous thinking. You think you can achieve everything alone?! You think you can handle Vision GT on your own?"
Alan: "Of course I need tools. Tools that are unbending and loyal to my cause. Kazunori turned out to be meek. And I know better. But as a sign of respect, I'll simply pick what he dropped off and move on to my global conquest.
Do you think, at your state, you have the means to stop me? I doubt so."
Man... I could really rush and this time I get to punch you! You are despicable! You used Kaz after all! And now you're disposing of the very person that took care of you?!
Andy: "I will..."
Alan: "Heh. What?"
Andy: "I will put an end to this... starting tomorrow. You and I will clash in Willow."
Alan: "Heh. Really? With a broken left arm?"
And... hey, Andy, what are you doing?! He breaks off his cast! He managed to straighten his left arm with willpower alone? Heh... that's the type of fiery spirit in common with the Kanonjis! It may look stupid, but that's just awesome!
Andy: "Not anymore."
Maria: "Oh boy..."
Alan: "I've enough of your parlor tricks, Dream Alliance. One-by-one, I'll take you down. Andy shall be the first."
Andy: "Go ahead, scaredy-cat. It's one dream versus a million. Let's see if you got the balls."
Time: 6 pm, the next day
This is it. The big one for Andy. Since he broke off the cast, he sometimes stretches his left arm just to make its bones ready. Hopefully that doesn't come off as a hindrance.
Andy steps in his Viper. I can hear that loud V10 roar when he revved it. He then briefly looks at the side mirror...
Andy: "You're next, Owen... you're next."
Under the bright sunset, the two cars are ready, lined up at the start.
Andy: "This will be rough."
Alan: "I'm sorry, but from this moment on I'll throw away our friendship. It made me weak..."
And the race begins! I can tell that this will be rough! I wish Nigel is here to analyze that red hatchback. It may have a bad launch, but it's just as fast!
End of Page 8
I'm not saying that we're rather disappointed that we fell into Alan's trap. By doing so, we are actually getting close to him as we managed to beat his pawns.
We got new info that would lead to him, and for that, it's time for us to charge. Alan, you put yourself into a delicate situation. Bravo. What's your next move?
Alan: "I may have successfully put a decoy to the Dream Alliance and then conquer the streets of LA in the process."
Alan: "My next big step? Take over the Vision GT Project. I'm done with my two lackeys. I don't intend them to be part of my success, anyway. Tools are only tools. I don't care if Dream Alliance got hold of them.
But.. why am I feeling that something is putting me down? What is this pressure I'm feeling? Is Andy still...?"
************************************************************
Location: Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan
Time: 1 pm, the next day
Meanwhile, Takanori and Rob head out at the mountains to have a little run. The latter was actually asked by Hiroyuki to check on Takanori, knowing that Kazunori is here in Japan.
Rob: "Hmph. You seem okay here."
Takanori: "What are you talking about? You've been staring at me the moment I picked you up from the hotel."
Rob: "I'm sure you're aware he's here."
Takanori: "Yeah. But you know what, I could think of one possible reason why. He wouldn't go here in a heartbeat, you know?"
Rob: "I suspected as much."
Takanori: "He wants to talk to me. One way or another, he is here just to see me."
Rob: "Probably to target the weakest link in our team. And that's you. The moment you found out his doing, everything came spiraling down for you, am I right?"
Takanori could not give a response.
Rob: "Silence means yes. You are still in shock. Keep yourself together. That's what you should do for now. Who knows, maybe you'll end up clashing against him."
************************************************************
Location: Andy's home, Los Angeles
Time: 7 pm, the next day
Andy invited us for a barbecue dinner. I volunteered to help him cook... well, I won't allow my cooking skills to rust!
In the midst of fun, however, a red hatchback arrives. In an instant, Andy became hostile. It turns out to be Alan...
Alan: "Whoa, whoa, whoa... why with the hostile faces?"
Sparing no second, Andy punches Alan's face, and slammed him on to his car.
Andy: "How dare you show up! What do you want? Don't you think I've suffered enough?"
Alan pushes Andy away.
Alan: "THAT'S WHAT I WAS SUPPOSED TO ASK, IDIOT! JUST WHAT THE HECK AM I SUPPOSED TO DO TO STOP YOU GUYS FROM CHASING ME DOWN?! I AM JUST FOLLOWING MY DREAM!"
Andy: "Yeah, a dream that will perish others. You really are selfish, just at the fact that you used Randy and Jewels as tools."
Alan: "You're the one to blame. You and my father pushed me away. I thought that out of all people, you'll have my back. But no...
...and that made me realize that to survive life, you must rely only on yourself. Trust no one. That alone builds your armor, makes you stronger. And as long as you have the means, do not hesitate to use them on your end. I've had enough of suffering, especially coming from a simple life in China."
Andy: "That's just ridiculous thinking. You think you can achieve everything alone?! You think you can handle Vision GT on your own?"
Alan: "Of course I need tools. Tools that are unbending and loyal to my cause. Kazunori turned out to be meek. And I know better. But as a sign of respect, I'll simply pick what he dropped off and move on to my global conquest.
Do you think, at your state, you have the means to stop me? I doubt so."
Man... I could really rush and this time I get to punch you! You are despicable! You used Kaz after all! And now you're disposing of the very person that took care of you?!
Andy: "I will..."
Alan: "Heh. What?"
Andy: "I will put an end to this... starting tomorrow. You and I will clash in Willow."
Alan: "Heh. Really? With a broken left arm?"
And... hey, Andy, what are you doing?! He breaks off his cast! He managed to straighten his left arm with willpower alone? Heh... that's the type of fiery spirit in common with the Kanonjis! It may look stupid, but that's just awesome!
Andy: "Not anymore."
Maria: "Oh boy..."
Alan: "I've enough of your parlor tricks, Dream Alliance. One-by-one, I'll take you down. Andy shall be the first."
Andy: "Go ahead, scaredy-cat. It's one dream versus a million. Let's see if you got the balls."
************************************************************
Location: Willow Springs
Time: 6 pm, the next day
This is it. The big one for Andy. Since he broke off the cast, he sometimes stretches his left arm just to make its bones ready. Hopefully that doesn't come off as a hindrance.
Andy steps in his Viper. I can hear that loud V10 roar when he revved it. He then briefly looks at the side mirror...
Andy: "You're next, Owen... you're next."
Under the bright sunset, the two cars are ready, lined up at the start.
Andy: "This will be rough."
Alan: "I'm sorry, but from this moment on I'll throw away our friendship. It made me weak..."
And the race begins! I can tell that this will be rough! I wish Nigel is here to analyze that red hatchback. It may have a bad launch, but it's just as fast!
End of Page 8
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- Quattro Saltire
Seconds out, Round 2 of Andy vs Alan. Nice Furious 7 reference as well.
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Coming soon...
Joining the battlefield to wage war against the Vision Gran Turismo Project! This rising new star in the French racing scene is sure to be very brave, but he is no way affiliated with the Dream Alliance.
I'm sure with that being unveiled, you can easily tell which VGT car will it go against.
Joining the battlefield to wage war against the Vision Gran Turismo Project! This rising new star in the French racing scene is sure to be very brave, but he is no way affiliated with the Dream Alliance.
I'm sure with that being unveiled, you can easily tell which VGT car will it go against.
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- 1,486
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Real smooth.
EDIT: I just noticed it's transparent. Guess i know which avatar to pick next....
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Page 9: Fight Back
The race has started, and Andy's Viper kicked off a good lead. But I do think that red hatchback is no slouch either.
We believe in you, Andy. Friendship can move mountains.
Andy: "Turbocharged that VW, eh? Pretty neat, but mine's louder!"
However upon steering, Andy's left arm cracks in pain for a moment, distracting his line and sending the Viper off track as a result.
Alan: "Seriously, why do you always have to be the superhero? Even they get hurt bad, you know?"
Alan: "Like I said before, leave me alone. That's very easy enough for you to accomplish."
With the Viper's power advantage, it's easy for Andy to make a move, but...
Alan: "Oh no you don't!"
That block briefly sent the Viper off its balance.
Whoa... the tables have turned immediately for Andy. But this is just the beginning!
Owen: "That hatchback had a loud turbo whistle. And seeing how it got that pace, it goes to show what turbochargers can do. I have recently increased the boost pressure of my KTM, and it shifted really quick. No doubt that Alan would change the tides."
Takuma: "That could hold some water. Willow Springs circuit favors power, and turbocharged cars can quickly escape from the turns. But Andy's Viper is naturally-aspirated, and its power can immediately be unleashed at the step on the pedal. So I can say that this is even. But his opponent's car is clad with aerodynamic parts, and they help in providing more grip on the high speed section. Alan's car can make up its power deficit by its downforce."
But even with those facts, a person's willpower alone can diminish them! Once again, Hiroyuki-san's ideals apply here! Go Andy!
Alan: "So... you're still here. I thought the fun would end so soon."
However, the tides of war have suddenly changed again, as Andy shows a grin on his face and applied full throttle.
And then at the beginning of the last lap, the Viper rams behind the GTI. It's not a typical tap that Nobuhiko does.
Alan: "What?!"
Andy then makes a pass.
Andy: "Don't you forget, I was once a fan favorite in high school rugby! I keep hitting until they succumb! I don't care how many body panels will fall off! You are all talk, NO MUSCLE!"
End of Page 9
The race has started, and Andy's Viper kicked off a good lead. But I do think that red hatchback is no slouch either.
We believe in you, Andy. Friendship can move mountains.
Andy: "Turbocharged that VW, eh? Pretty neat, but mine's louder!"
However upon steering, Andy's left arm cracks in pain for a moment, distracting his line and sending the Viper off track as a result.
Alan: "Seriously, why do you always have to be the superhero? Even they get hurt bad, you know?"
Alan: "Like I said before, leave me alone. That's very easy enough for you to accomplish."
With the Viper's power advantage, it's easy for Andy to make a move, but...
Alan: "Oh no you don't!"
That block briefly sent the Viper off its balance.
Whoa... the tables have turned immediately for Andy. But this is just the beginning!
Owen: "That hatchback had a loud turbo whistle. And seeing how it got that pace, it goes to show what turbochargers can do. I have recently increased the boost pressure of my KTM, and it shifted really quick. No doubt that Alan would change the tides."
Takuma: "That could hold some water. Willow Springs circuit favors power, and turbocharged cars can quickly escape from the turns. But Andy's Viper is naturally-aspirated, and its power can immediately be unleashed at the step on the pedal. So I can say that this is even. But his opponent's car is clad with aerodynamic parts, and they help in providing more grip on the high speed section. Alan's car can make up its power deficit by its downforce."
But even with those facts, a person's willpower alone can diminish them! Once again, Hiroyuki-san's ideals apply here! Go Andy!
Alan: "So... you're still here. I thought the fun would end so soon."
However, the tides of war have suddenly changed again, as Andy shows a grin on his face and applied full throttle.
And then at the beginning of the last lap, the Viper rams behind the GTI. It's not a typical tap that Nobuhiko does.
Alan: "What?!"
Andy then makes a pass.
Andy: "Don't you forget, I was once a fan favorite in high school rugby! I keep hitting until they succumb! I don't care how many body panels will fall off! You are all talk, NO MUSCLE!"
End of Page 9
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Page 10 - The Hard Way
The last leg of the race has shifted into a dogfight. Andy really pushes it. It's now or never, even for best friends.
Alan: "If that's what you want, then I'll give it!"
The GTI retaliates, also trading paint with the Viper.
Andy: "That's the spirit! Now take this!"
Andy makes another hit, sending the GTI at the outer lane.
Then another attempt of Alan's retaliation commences, this time a pit maneuver. But Andy's experience with powerful muscle cars negates it, keeping the Viper under control and maintaining the lead.
Seeing the Viper about to win, Alan thinks of a last resort.
Alan: "That's it for you Andy! You will never get away with this alive! Dream Alliance will regret this!"
Just as he is to ram the Viper at high speed, he is too late to realize that Andy braked at the right moment and started turning, completely missing him.
Alan: "SHOOT! He actually started to turn in?!"
This resulted to the GTI being flown off the track.
Andy: "Missed me, idiot. Oh well, I don't even give mercy to a best friend when it comes to this."
All right! We win again! But wait, where's Alan?
Maria: "Look!"
She then points at the red hatchback going somewhere and... breaking through the barriers.
But instead of chasing after his friend, Andy simply returned to us.
Takuma: "Why didn't you go after him?"
Andy: "I think this is the time for me to be realistic. I think even words cannot reach that man."
Maria: "So you're just going to let him be?"
Andy: "If I'm going to be a superhero, then I have to save everyone. This time, the racing world is a lot more worthy to save than just one person named Alan Long. If he is to be the villain, then I have no choice but to put him down for good. I've totally learned my lesson."
I see. Andy has finally shifted his focus to our team. He cannot afford to waste his efforts on just one person who simply wouldn't listen. Giving up isn't bad at all, as long as it's worth doing so and at the right time. It just goes to show that you've tried everything, and decided to move on to the next after that failure.
Location: Zhang Long's Mansion, Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles
Time: 9 pm
Zhang hears a doorbell as he is watching an episode of a weekly TV series in the living room. The old man reaches for it, and the visitor turns out to be Andy. Andy has a bandage wrapped around his left arm this time around.
The two settle in the living room, with Zhang striking the conversation.
Zhang: "It's been quite a long while, Andy. Have you talked to Alan?"
Andy: "He ran away again."
Zhang: "I expected as much. I knew what happened. Do you think someone in the right mind would willingly endanger the life of his best friend? That's not the one with a clear conscience. Look at you, you almost got killed. It's time for us to give up."
Andy: "I have already made up my mind. I will focus on my dream this time. I won't go around in circles and waste my time on just one person."
Zhang: "That's what you should have done a long time ago. If you focused, then you wouldn't have that bandage wrapped on your arm."
Andy: "I've heard he has plans on taking over the Vision GT Project for his global conquest. My team is working hard on stopping that project, and I have joined in that conquest, vowing to save the racing world."
Zhang: "Is that so? That man sure has a lot of plans. I, on the other hand, have disowned him."
Andy: "Why?"
Zhang: "I say let life teach him the hard way. Disregarding others will lead one to downfall. I experienced that, and my son, too, deserves it. I say go ahead, let him be. Let him rely on himself. Sooner or later, even his own darkness will consume him.
Sigh... I'm an old man. And he is a grown up. We don't have the say nor control of his life. We're not nannies. At least we've tried our best."
Andy: "Letting go doesn't always mean it's the end. It could lead to a path of a better opportunity. I will take that path."
End of Page 10
The last leg of the race has shifted into a dogfight. Andy really pushes it. It's now or never, even for best friends.
Alan: "If that's what you want, then I'll give it!"
The GTI retaliates, also trading paint with the Viper.
Andy: "That's the spirit! Now take this!"
Andy makes another hit, sending the GTI at the outer lane.
Then another attempt of Alan's retaliation commences, this time a pit maneuver. But Andy's experience with powerful muscle cars negates it, keeping the Viper under control and maintaining the lead.
Seeing the Viper about to win, Alan thinks of a last resort.
Alan: "That's it for you Andy! You will never get away with this alive! Dream Alliance will regret this!"
Just as he is to ram the Viper at high speed, he is too late to realize that Andy braked at the right moment and started turning, completely missing him.
Alan: "SHOOT! He actually started to turn in?!"
This resulted to the GTI being flown off the track.
Andy: "Missed me, idiot. Oh well, I don't even give mercy to a best friend when it comes to this."
All right! We win again! But wait, where's Alan?
Maria: "Look!"
She then points at the red hatchback going somewhere and... breaking through the barriers.
But instead of chasing after his friend, Andy simply returned to us.
Takuma: "Why didn't you go after him?"
Andy: "I think this is the time for me to be realistic. I think even words cannot reach that man."
Maria: "So you're just going to let him be?"
Andy: "If I'm going to be a superhero, then I have to save everyone. This time, the racing world is a lot more worthy to save than just one person named Alan Long. If he is to be the villain, then I have no choice but to put him down for good. I've totally learned my lesson."
I see. Andy has finally shifted his focus to our team. He cannot afford to waste his efforts on just one person who simply wouldn't listen. Giving up isn't bad at all, as long as it's worth doing so and at the right time. It just goes to show that you've tried everything, and decided to move on to the next after that failure.
************************************************************
Location: Zhang Long's Mansion, Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles
Time: 9 pm
Zhang hears a doorbell as he is watching an episode of a weekly TV series in the living room. The old man reaches for it, and the visitor turns out to be Andy. Andy has a bandage wrapped around his left arm this time around.
The two settle in the living room, with Zhang striking the conversation.
Zhang: "It's been quite a long while, Andy. Have you talked to Alan?"
Andy: "He ran away again."
Zhang: "I expected as much. I knew what happened. Do you think someone in the right mind would willingly endanger the life of his best friend? That's not the one with a clear conscience. Look at you, you almost got killed. It's time for us to give up."
Andy: "I have already made up my mind. I will focus on my dream this time. I won't go around in circles and waste my time on just one person."
Zhang: "That's what you should have done a long time ago. If you focused, then you wouldn't have that bandage wrapped on your arm."
Andy: "I've heard he has plans on taking over the Vision GT Project for his global conquest. My team is working hard on stopping that project, and I have joined in that conquest, vowing to save the racing world."
Zhang: "Is that so? That man sure has a lot of plans. I, on the other hand, have disowned him."
Andy: "Why?"
Zhang: "I say let life teach him the hard way. Disregarding others will lead one to downfall. I experienced that, and my son, too, deserves it. I say go ahead, let him be. Let him rely on himself. Sooner or later, even his own darkness will consume him.
Sigh... I'm an old man. And he is a grown up. We don't have the say nor control of his life. We're not nannies. At least we've tried our best."
Andy: "Letting go doesn't always mean it's the end. It could lead to a path of a better opportunity. I will take that path."
End of Page 10
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Page 11: The Final Approach
I guess we're done here. Alan escaped once again, but that doesn't mean that Andy gave up. If Alan will take over the Vision GT Project, then we'll find him again and stop him for good.
Once again, we stopped by his home. The three of us will tell him that we're needed in Japan, knowing very well that Kaz is there.
But first, he showed us this little white car...
Takuma: "I've never seen that before."
Andy: "Chaparral 2D. A lightweight car with a giant engine in it. Nice combo, right?"
Maria: "Chaparral... isn't that a race car constructor?"
Andy: "Yep. They make radical racing cars and add Corvette engines in them. Took me ages to restore this beaut."
Owen: "Fascinating combo indeed. Small car with a big engine."
Andy: "Unlike a typical British lightweight where everything is small."
Takuma: "Andy, we're heading to Japan tomorrow. You're packed?"
Andy: "Already did. I'm always locked and loaded. I know that this will happen. I'm chasing Alan all over again, but for a different purpose."
Takuma: "I guess this is the right time for me to say - "Welcome Back", eh?"
Andy: "Sounds good to me. Hey, mind if I take this out for a spin? I'll be back in a jiffy."
Takuma: "Sure."
Just like an excited kid, he sets off. He left us hanging here, for sure.
Maria: "I guess the wind has blown to a different direction, huh?"
Takuma: "Yeah. This time, Andy will be with us all the time."
Location: Willow Springs - Streets of Willow
Time: 6 pm
Andy: "There's no more running around in circles. It's time to fulfill my very own dream."
The 2D's light frame allows it to effortlessly tackle the technical nature of the track.
Andy: "Mr. Long is right. I should have done that a long time ago. How I wasted my time."
Andy: "I'm probably lagging behind my teammates in terms of progress and skill. I have yet to prove myself to the world."
Andy: "But of course, that ends now. I will make myself known. I shall show Alan the new me. I will make him tremble."
Andy: "But first, I must take on Owen... I haven't forgotten about him, you know?"
Time: 7 pm, two days later
We're all here. I mean everyone in the team. We only have one person left to take care of. And that's Kaz.
We cannot afford to fool ourselves. We have to show him the pressure he's dealing with.
Hiroyuki: "I'm glad you all came, especially you Andy."
Andy: "I will contribute a lot more in this team than ever before. Sorry if you think I fooled around."
Hiroyuki: "We understand. You even got injured in order to reach out to your friend."
Andy: "But it's time to move on."
Hiroyuki: "That's right. Everyone, let us all do whatever we can in order to stop Kazunori. We have reached this far, and even sacrifices had to be made. There's no turning back. Let us show him the true power of our determination, which is a lot stronger than any high-tech car.
At any given moment, he'll strike. Let us all be prepared for this one, big battle. Takanori?"
Takanori: "Yes, sir. I am ready. If I have to oppose my greatest idol, then so be it."
Takuma: "Are you sure your mind is made up?"
Takanori: "Definitely."
Even so, I can detect a hint of hesitation from that tone, Takanori. If you plan to talk him out of this, the chances are very slim...
Hiroyuki: "All right. Let's make him feel the slap I gave him. We have to make it hurt bad."
Maria: "No fair. How come you were able to do that, and I can't?"
Rob: "You'll have your chance later on, lass. On to another topic, we have another major series to participate. I got the contract already."
Hiroyuki: "And that shall be signed later on. We will join the FIA WEC and 24 Hours of Le Mans. I can take care of those things while all of you get busy in dealing with Kaz. I trust you on that."
Takanori: "Of course! And I promised myself to have my groove back! I have been slouching for a long time thanks to my work. The Takanori you've once known will return!"
Heh... nice one, little shrimp. I wanna see that. I want the Takanori that kicked my butt when we first met. I want the Attack Stig back!
Get ready, Kaz! You'll be surprised on who is going to kick your butt! The very person who greatly admired you!
I guess we're done here. Alan escaped once again, but that doesn't mean that Andy gave up. If Alan will take over the Vision GT Project, then we'll find him again and stop him for good.
Once again, we stopped by his home. The three of us will tell him that we're needed in Japan, knowing very well that Kaz is there.
But first, he showed us this little white car...
Takuma: "I've never seen that before."
Andy: "Chaparral 2D. A lightweight car with a giant engine in it. Nice combo, right?"
Maria: "Chaparral... isn't that a race car constructor?"
Andy: "Yep. They make radical racing cars and add Corvette engines in them. Took me ages to restore this beaut."
Owen: "Fascinating combo indeed. Small car with a big engine."
Andy: "Unlike a typical British lightweight where everything is small."
Takuma: "Andy, we're heading to Japan tomorrow. You're packed?"
Andy: "Already did. I'm always locked and loaded. I know that this will happen. I'm chasing Alan all over again, but for a different purpose."
Takuma: "I guess this is the right time for me to say - "Welcome Back", eh?"
Andy: "Sounds good to me. Hey, mind if I take this out for a spin? I'll be back in a jiffy."
Takuma: "Sure."
Just like an excited kid, he sets off. He left us hanging here, for sure.
Maria: "I guess the wind has blown to a different direction, huh?"
Takuma: "Yeah. This time, Andy will be with us all the time."
************************************************************
Location: Willow Springs - Streets of Willow
Time: 6 pm
Andy: "There's no more running around in circles. It's time to fulfill my very own dream."
The 2D's light frame allows it to effortlessly tackle the technical nature of the track.
Andy: "Mr. Long is right. I should have done that a long time ago. How I wasted my time."
Andy: "I'm probably lagging behind my teammates in terms of progress and skill. I have yet to prove myself to the world."
Andy: "But of course, that ends now. I will make myself known. I shall show Alan the new me. I will make him tremble."
Andy: "But first, I must take on Owen... I haven't forgotten about him, you know?"
************************************************************
Location: Hiroyuki's home, Roppongi Hills, Tokyo, Japan
Time: 7 pm, two days later
We're all here. I mean everyone in the team. We only have one person left to take care of. And that's Kaz.
We cannot afford to fool ourselves. We have to show him the pressure he's dealing with.
Hiroyuki: "I'm glad you all came, especially you Andy."
Andy: "I will contribute a lot more in this team than ever before. Sorry if you think I fooled around."
Hiroyuki: "We understand. You even got injured in order to reach out to your friend."
Andy: "But it's time to move on."
Hiroyuki: "That's right. Everyone, let us all do whatever we can in order to stop Kazunori. We have reached this far, and even sacrifices had to be made. There's no turning back. Let us show him the true power of our determination, which is a lot stronger than any high-tech car.
At any given moment, he'll strike. Let us all be prepared for this one, big battle. Takanori?"
Takanori: "Yes, sir. I am ready. If I have to oppose my greatest idol, then so be it."
Takuma: "Are you sure your mind is made up?"
Takanori: "Definitely."
Even so, I can detect a hint of hesitation from that tone, Takanori. If you plan to talk him out of this, the chances are very slim...
Hiroyuki: "All right. Let's make him feel the slap I gave him. We have to make it hurt bad."
Maria: "No fair. How come you were able to do that, and I can't?"
Rob: "You'll have your chance later on, lass. On to another topic, we have another major series to participate. I got the contract already."
Hiroyuki: "And that shall be signed later on. We will join the FIA WEC and 24 Hours of Le Mans. I can take care of those things while all of you get busy in dealing with Kaz. I trust you on that."
Takanori: "Of course! And I promised myself to have my groove back! I have been slouching for a long time thanks to my work. The Takanori you've once known will return!"
Heh... nice one, little shrimp. I wanna see that. I want the Takanori that kicked my butt when we first met. I want the Attack Stig back!
Get ready, Kaz! You'll be surprised on who is going to kick your butt! The very person who greatly admired you!
THE END
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THE KAZUNORI ARC
Kazunori Yamauchi returns, plotting his personal comeback retribution to the Dream Alliance, after seeing his project fell within his grasp, and all years of hard work obliterated in a snap.
Part of his plan, is to see a certain someone from Dream Alliance, whom he thinks he can easily sway on to joining his side.
The racing world shall bear witness to Dream Alliance's all-out to defeat the Vision Gran Turismo Project. The fate of millions of hopes and dreams are rest on their hands.
Kazunori Yamauchi returns, plotting his personal comeback retribution to the Dream Alliance, after seeing his project fell within his grasp, and all years of hard work obliterated in a snap.
Part of his plan, is to see a certain someone from Dream Alliance, whom he thinks he can easily sway on to joining his side.
The racing world shall bear witness to Dream Alliance's all-out to defeat the Vision Gran Turismo Project. The fate of millions of hopes and dreams are rest on their hands.
Page 1: For Dennis
Location: Motoring Monthly Office, Nishi-Shinjuku, Japan
Time: 9 am
Ahhhhh.... well, time to see my old workplace. Anyway, it's just 3 days after I returned here in Japan and yet I haven't visited this place.
And there's my floor. Look, the office hasn't changed one bit. I can still remember the placement of the cubicles. Even the coffee machine that Takanori and I used to fight on is still there.
Well.. well... time for a grand surprise for my colleagues.
First, I rubbed my right foot on the carpet, signifying a bull's threat display. Hehe...
Takuma: "MOOOOOOOO!!!"
Of course, the first person who took notice is Takanori...
Takanori: "Did I hear moo? Oh no....
...THE BULL IS HERE! IT'S ABOUT TO CHARGE! HELP!!!"
Nobuyuki: "You forgot the red cape, haven't you? Oh boy..."
Nobuhiko: "Don't forget the grass."
I charge my way to their cubicles, and success! Another headbutt to Takanori! MOOOOOOOOO!!!
Takanori: "Owwwwww!!!"
Takuma: "MOOOOOOO!!!"
Nobuyuki: "So... how long will you be staying here?"
Takuma: "Until Kaz got whooped."
Takanori: "Well, that means you're staying here for long. I can't just rely on the fact that he is in the Polyphony Digital office. We have to be careful too."
Takuma: "You're right. And this office hasn't changed one bit."
Nobuhiko: "Uh-huh... and the EIC told us that it's better this way. He intends to make you feel home every time you step in here."
Takanori: "Well, I will be staying here until 12, though... I have to see Hiroyuki-san."
Takuma: "Okay, okay... I'll try to stay as much as I want to."
Nobuyuki: "You can be a guest for today's episode. It'll be special."
Takuma: "Sounds good to me."
I miss the workplace. I took my time to wander around and talk to the other staff, especially that old lady in the cafeteria who treats me like her own son.
************************************************************
Location: Hiroyuki's mansion, Roppongi Hills
Time: 1 pm
Takanori heads to Hiroyuki's mansion as planned. After exchanging greetings, he is directed to the office.
Hiroyuki: "Oh good. You've arrived."
Takanori: "Good afternoon."
He briefly bows before his director, and then sit down.
Hiroyuki: "I heard you wish to help out Marcus Chilton. Much like you did in the past."
Takanori: "Yes. I am here to express that."
Hiroyuki: "Well, who am I to stop you? I never discourage anyone of you to help out other racing teams, as long as it is done with my consent, of course. The FIA WEC and the 24 Hours of Le Mans are pretty far off, so that means you can race with them."
Takanori: "Thank you, sir."
Hiroyuki: "I can still tell that you are troubled. I do hope you use this time to contemplate yourself."
Takanori: "Yes. I will. Besides, Dennis was my best friend, and it was a sharp blow to my heart when he passed away. I was troubled to know that Kazunori-san would resort to that."
Hiroyuki: "If someone like Rob Hatch was able to forgive and move on, then you should be able to do the same."
Takanori: "I hope I can prevail from this situation."
Hiroyuki: "I know you can. You have inherited Michiharu's fiery spirit."
************************************************************
Location: Cape Ring Periphery, Shizuoka Prefecture
Time: 4 pm
After that brief visit and as well as having gotten Hiroyuki's approval, Takanori heads to a track in Shizuoka.
Upon entering, he spots a familiar car having practice laps...
Driving the car is none other than Marcus. The upcoming race will be held in this track in the weekend.
The LMP2 race car he's running with is a Zytek Z11SN. It is powered by the tried-and-tested Nissan's VK45DE 4.5 liter naturally-aspirated V8 producing around 450 horsepower.
Takanori has driven the car in the past as well, and gave it huge praise.
He then asks the team director named Willie to call out Marcus. The driver complied and enters the pit lane.
Upon seeing Takanori, the two had a brief brotherly hug.
Takanori: "It's been a while, Marcus! You've been improving!"
Marcus: "You think so? Thanks."
Takanori: "Listen, I'll be helping you out once again. My next racing season is still far off."
Marcus: "That's lovely to hear. Ever since Dennis died, we've been struggling to find our replacement, even now. At least your arrival will lighten things up a bit."
Takanori: "I know. That's why I came here. Besides, I also have a personal agenda. I have to... contemplate myself. Through this, hopefully I can clear my mind."
Marcus: "I wish Dennis is still here with us..."
Takanori: "I understand. He's my best friend. I even cried when I learned of his passing."
Then Takanori looks at the driver names etched on the car.
Takanori: "I'm sure you miss this car so much, right, Dennis? I wish you are here with us. Those times were so much fun. I cannot believe our friendship lasted this short, because you had to be involved in our mess. The last moment we had together, was the time we were carrying you from the podium after you captured the overall victory.
Worry not, mate... I will dedicate every race for you!"
Takanori shows a big smile and a thumbs up, but a single tear poured from his eye.
End of Page 1
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Page 2: Reach Out
Location: Kanonji Home, Aoyama, Tokyo
Time: 8 am, the next day
What a sleep, and it was great! I miss my old room.. and the house in front. At least I sold that to Takanori before I move to UK.
Standard operating procedure - I go down to the shop and help mom out. She asked me to open it early, despite the fact that we have yet to replenish the stocks.
Oh look, it's Takanori. Shouldn't he be at work?
Takuma: "Why aren't you at work?"
Takanori: "Simple. I took a leave for me to be able to help out Marcus' team. They're struggling right now, and I sense the need to lend them a hand. Besides, the show only has a few episodes for the upcoming season, and I've done my part."
Takuma: "All right, all right. Enough with the excuses. Where will you go today, then?"
Takanori: "To Tsukuba, as the settings for the LMP2 car have been worked on for today. I need a refresh. I'll be heading first to Kaido-san's shop to pick up the car. Oh, the race will be at Cape Ring Periphery in Shizuoka this Sunday. I hope you can watch."
Takuma: "Okay. I'll just follow suit. I need to help mom out."
Takanori: "All right. See you then!"
Time: 3 pm
Whew... that was a rather tiring day especially when setting up new chairs to replace the old ones. With that taken care of, time to see Takanori.
Glad I made it, since I asked the marshals and they told me that he has been running all day, and just stopped for lunch. Man, do you really need to do a lot just to take the rust off?
And the car... that's the one I haven't seen for a very very long time.
I still can't get over the fact that it whooped me and my Zonda R when we had the showdown on a touge.
The understeery nature of the R32 trains its drivers to be more conscious in their racing lines, which Takanori perfected. Tsukuba Circuit favors those types of cars, though.
Meanwhile... oops, my phone rings. And well, well... it's Rob Hatch. What's he up to?
Takuma: "Hello?"
Rob: "You gotta keep your eyes on your twin, Takuma. He's in terrible danger."
Takuma: "What are you talking about?"
Turns out that Rob is stepping on an obviously beaten up goon while having the conversation. Tomoko looks at him with concern.
Rob: "Someone's been snooping around the neighborhood. I have been watching for days the moment I saw this man going back and forth while I was enjoying your good-tasting confectionery. Today, he just had an unlucky day."
Takuma: "What does he intend to do?"
Rob: "Watch Takanori's every single step. He's one of Kaz's musketeers. I suspect abduction here."
Wait a second... why? Why would someone like Kaz resort to that? Sure, he's our enemy, but the one with a sense of honor.
Takuma: "Anyway, thanks for letting me know. You have to interrogate him even more."
Rob: "I don't take orders from you. And this is my job. I'll take care of this."
Takuma: "I'll trust you on that. I'll let Takanori know."
We're facing another dilemma, though it's still related to our main objective. Kaz... why don't you just do it yourself?
Location: Cape Ring Periphery, Shizuoka
Time: 2 pm, Sunday
Because Takanori was so preoccupied, I have yet to tell him the situation. I just cannot break the mood, you know? Right now, he's talking to his teammate who shall perform for the first round.
All right, that's it. I will tell him no matter what! The sooner he knows, the better! Besides, the race has started.
Takuma: "Hey, little shrimp."
Takanori: "Aniki! Great to see you stop by. Though I'm not going to race today..."
Takuma: "Good. Because I'm here to tell something alarming that concerns you."
Takanori: "What is it?"
Takuma: "Haven't you noticed someone following you? Nor staying in the same place nearby your home to watch over you?"
Takanori: "No, I haven't... why?"
Takuma: "Because you are in danger."
Takanori: "What?!"
Takuma: "Kaz sent out one of his no-good pawns to get you. Why? Because he knows you're the only one that do not express an objection to his plans. He knows you're his greatest fan. Naturally, as an enemy, he would exploit the weakest link."
Takanori: "I can't believe this..."
Takuma: "If I were you, Takanori, abolish all trust and admiration for him. Get real. Fight if you have to."
Takanori: "I think he's attempting to reach out to me. Of course he cannot just go out in public and do it himself."
Takuma: "So, you are still believing he has some good left in him? Full points for faith, then."
Takanori: "If that's the case...
...I'll be the one doing the talking and stop this. I am the only one who can reach out to him."
Takuma: "Be realistic! You think words alone can stop this entire Vision GT project? Good luck. Tell me how it went. Who knows, maybe it can save us from the trouble of preparations."
Ugh... I just stormed out. Fine, talk to him if you wish.
That's easier said than done.
End of Page 2
Location: Kanonji Home, Aoyama, Tokyo
Time: 8 am, the next day
What a sleep, and it was great! I miss my old room.. and the house in front. At least I sold that to Takanori before I move to UK.
Standard operating procedure - I go down to the shop and help mom out. She asked me to open it early, despite the fact that we have yet to replenish the stocks.
Oh look, it's Takanori. Shouldn't he be at work?
Takuma: "Why aren't you at work?"
Takanori: "Simple. I took a leave for me to be able to help out Marcus' team. They're struggling right now, and I sense the need to lend them a hand. Besides, the show only has a few episodes for the upcoming season, and I've done my part."
Takuma: "All right, all right. Enough with the excuses. Where will you go today, then?"
Takanori: "To Tsukuba, as the settings for the LMP2 car have been worked on for today. I need a refresh. I'll be heading first to Kaido-san's shop to pick up the car. Oh, the race will be at Cape Ring Periphery in Shizuoka this Sunday. I hope you can watch."
Takuma: "Okay. I'll just follow suit. I need to help mom out."
Takanori: "All right. See you then!"
************************************************************
Location: Tsukuba Circuit, Ibaraki
Time: 3 pm
Whew... that was a rather tiring day especially when setting up new chairs to replace the old ones. With that taken care of, time to see Takanori.
Glad I made it, since I asked the marshals and they told me that he has been running all day, and just stopped for lunch. Man, do you really need to do a lot just to take the rust off?
And the car... that's the one I haven't seen for a very very long time.
I still can't get over the fact that it whooped me and my Zonda R when we had the showdown on a touge.
The understeery nature of the R32 trains its drivers to be more conscious in their racing lines, which Takanori perfected. Tsukuba Circuit favors those types of cars, though.
Meanwhile... oops, my phone rings. And well, well... it's Rob Hatch. What's he up to?
Takuma: "Hello?"
Rob: "You gotta keep your eyes on your twin, Takuma. He's in terrible danger."
Takuma: "What are you talking about?"
Turns out that Rob is stepping on an obviously beaten up goon while having the conversation. Tomoko looks at him with concern.
Rob: "Someone's been snooping around the neighborhood. I have been watching for days the moment I saw this man going back and forth while I was enjoying your good-tasting confectionery. Today, he just had an unlucky day."
Takuma: "What does he intend to do?"
Rob: "Watch Takanori's every single step. He's one of Kaz's musketeers. I suspect abduction here."
Wait a second... why? Why would someone like Kaz resort to that? Sure, he's our enemy, but the one with a sense of honor.
Takuma: "Anyway, thanks for letting me know. You have to interrogate him even more."
Rob: "I don't take orders from you. And this is my job. I'll take care of this."
Takuma: "I'll trust you on that. I'll let Takanori know."
We're facing another dilemma, though it's still related to our main objective. Kaz... why don't you just do it yourself?
************************************************************
Location: Cape Ring Periphery, Shizuoka
Time: 2 pm, Sunday
Because Takanori was so preoccupied, I have yet to tell him the situation. I just cannot break the mood, you know? Right now, he's talking to his teammate who shall perform for the first round.
All right, that's it. I will tell him no matter what! The sooner he knows, the better! Besides, the race has started.
Takuma: "Hey, little shrimp."
Takanori: "Aniki! Great to see you stop by. Though I'm not going to race today..."
Takuma: "Good. Because I'm here to tell something alarming that concerns you."
Takanori: "What is it?"
Takuma: "Haven't you noticed someone following you? Nor staying in the same place nearby your home to watch over you?"
Takanori: "No, I haven't... why?"
Takuma: "Because you are in danger."
Takanori: "What?!"
Takuma: "Kaz sent out one of his no-good pawns to get you. Why? Because he knows you're the only one that do not express an objection to his plans. He knows you're his greatest fan. Naturally, as an enemy, he would exploit the weakest link."
Takanori: "I can't believe this..."
Takuma: "If I were you, Takanori, abolish all trust and admiration for him. Get real. Fight if you have to."
Takanori: "I think he's attempting to reach out to me. Of course he cannot just go out in public and do it himself."
Takuma: "So, you are still believing he has some good left in him? Full points for faith, then."
Takanori: "If that's the case...
...I'll be the one doing the talking and stop this. I am the only one who can reach out to him."
Takuma: "Be realistic! You think words alone can stop this entire Vision GT project? Good luck. Tell me how it went. Who knows, maybe it can save us from the trouble of preparations."
Ugh... I just stormed out. Fine, talk to him if you wish.
That's easier said than done.
End of Page 2
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Page 3: Our Resolve
I didn't really storm out at all. I stayed just to watch the conclusion of the race.
I made a research on Marcus Chilton. He is quite a decent racer, but improving the moment Takanori jumped in. Too bad though, he was on a slump when Dennis Hatch died. He views him and Takanori as inspirations to succeed. It will take a lot of effort from Takanori for that guy to shape up again.
However, just like the rest, his career is also in a brink of failure as long as the Vision GT Project lingers. See this is why we have a moral obligation. Even the people we care about are affected, and their ways of living.
And... Marcus takes the win. Good for him. Hopefully he can truly move on. All right, time to really storm out.
As I am on the way to my car, I suddenly encountered the very person that drove us to this madness. Kazunori Yamauchi!
I stopped, but then he just moved on like he didn't see me.
Takuma: "Oi, Yamauchi!"
And no... I only address names with honorifics to those people who TRULY deserve my respect. Even I call political figures by their first or last name.
Kazunori: "Takuma Kanonji-san."
Takuma: "You're here to see Takanori? I won't let you..."
Kazunori: "I know you'd say that."
Takuma: "You don't need to send a goon in order to forcibly bring him to you. You've created a large mess, you know?"
Kazunori: "I'm aware of that. But you must know this. My dreams have crippled, all thanks to you."
Takuma: "You deserve that. And you must know this too. Lay a finger on anyone in the team, and I won't regret decapitating you and then display your head on the desk of your office. I'm warning you. You knew what Rob did to your headquarters. I can do worse."
There, I gave him my final warning. Too much, but I think that's necessary.
Kazunori: "Until we meet."
Whatever, I don't plan on seeing you ever again, old man. Go back and do not delay your promises, if you know what I mean. I cannot wait for the Course Maker.
Time: 8 pm
Takanori arrived just in time, and we can all eat dinner. I do not intend on telling him my brief exchange with Kazunori, for him to focus more on the races.
Takuma: "Can we all eat? I'm hungry."
Itadakimasu! And as usual, Takanori gets the first helping on that large bowl of Sukiyaki.
Takanori: "Ummmm... the next round will be held in Brands Hatch Circuit in UK. But I won't be staying there for long. Just a week and then I'll go back here immediately after the race. We are to fetch a car too. Third round will be held in Fuji.
Takuma: "Take care, okay? I will have to stay here just to keep Kazunori at bay."
Takanori: "I see. But once I go back here, I will talk to him. Please don't stop me."
Takuma: "Why would I? You're a grown man, anyway."
Takanori: "I know the entire Dream Alliance won't approve of this, but there's a need."
Takuma: "We're not stopping you. Who said we will? Talk to him if you have to. But I wanna know how it would turn out."
Takanori: "Okay, then."
I assured him that there won't be any repercussions. If he can talk it out to Kazunori, then good. But I don't think the heat would be settled just like that.
Location: Polyphony Digital Headquarters
Time: 10 pm
Even though it's Sunday, Kazunori spent the entire day in his office just to get most of the work done. Deadlines have to be met for his games.
Vowing to finish the rest tomorrow, he sets off, turning off the lights in his office.
Upon reaching outside, he gets in his R34 GT-R which serves as his daily driver.
While cruising around on his way home, he encounters a random racer...
Kazunori: "My resolve is something that cannot be swayed. I may be a silent man, but I too have an enraging spirit. That's the weapon I have all these years, and I credit that to my success."
He shifts to 2nd gear and blasts away from the corner. Even though the R34 is obviously stock, it made a quick work on the Viper thanks to Kazunori's skill.
Kazunori: "Now, Dream Alliance... let me see how fiery your resolve is. I want to see if it truly transcends machinery."
Kazunori: "I will use my resolve, down to its last bit, to prevail over you! No matter what the odds are! I don't care if I had lost grasp on Vision GT Project. Now, it's just me and you."
End of Page 3
I didn't really storm out at all. I stayed just to watch the conclusion of the race.
I made a research on Marcus Chilton. He is quite a decent racer, but improving the moment Takanori jumped in. Too bad though, he was on a slump when Dennis Hatch died. He views him and Takanori as inspirations to succeed. It will take a lot of effort from Takanori for that guy to shape up again.
However, just like the rest, his career is also in a brink of failure as long as the Vision GT Project lingers. See this is why we have a moral obligation. Even the people we care about are affected, and their ways of living.
And... Marcus takes the win. Good for him. Hopefully he can truly move on. All right, time to really storm out.
As I am on the way to my car, I suddenly encountered the very person that drove us to this madness. Kazunori Yamauchi!
I stopped, but then he just moved on like he didn't see me.
Takuma: "Oi, Yamauchi!"
And no... I only address names with honorifics to those people who TRULY deserve my respect. Even I call political figures by their first or last name.
Kazunori: "Takuma Kanonji-san."
Takuma: "You're here to see Takanori? I won't let you..."
Kazunori: "I know you'd say that."
Takuma: "You don't need to send a goon in order to forcibly bring him to you. You've created a large mess, you know?"
Kazunori: "I'm aware of that. But you must know this. My dreams have crippled, all thanks to you."
Takuma: "You deserve that. And you must know this too. Lay a finger on anyone in the team, and I won't regret decapitating you and then display your head on the desk of your office. I'm warning you. You knew what Rob did to your headquarters. I can do worse."
There, I gave him my final warning. Too much, but I think that's necessary.
Kazunori: "Until we meet."
Whatever, I don't plan on seeing you ever again, old man. Go back and do not delay your promises, if you know what I mean. I cannot wait for the Course Maker.
************************************************************
Location: Kanonji residence, Aoyama, Tokyo
Time: 8 pm
Takanori arrived just in time, and we can all eat dinner. I do not intend on telling him my brief exchange with Kazunori, for him to focus more on the races.
Takuma: "Can we all eat? I'm hungry."
Itadakimasu! And as usual, Takanori gets the first helping on that large bowl of Sukiyaki.
Takanori: "Ummmm... the next round will be held in Brands Hatch Circuit in UK. But I won't be staying there for long. Just a week and then I'll go back here immediately after the race. We are to fetch a car too. Third round will be held in Fuji.
Takuma: "Take care, okay? I will have to stay here just to keep Kazunori at bay."
Takanori: "I see. But once I go back here, I will talk to him. Please don't stop me."
Takuma: "Why would I? You're a grown man, anyway."
Takanori: "I know the entire Dream Alliance won't approve of this, but there's a need."
Takuma: "We're not stopping you. Who said we will? Talk to him if you have to. But I wanna know how it would turn out."
Takanori: "Okay, then."
I assured him that there won't be any repercussions. If he can talk it out to Kazunori, then good. But I don't think the heat would be settled just like that.
************************************************************
Location: Polyphony Digital Headquarters
Time: 10 pm
Even though it's Sunday, Kazunori spent the entire day in his office just to get most of the work done. Deadlines have to be met for his games.
Vowing to finish the rest tomorrow, he sets off, turning off the lights in his office.
Upon reaching outside, he gets in his R34 GT-R which serves as his daily driver.
While cruising around on his way home, he encounters a random racer...
Kazunori: "My resolve is something that cannot be swayed. I may be a silent man, but I too have an enraging spirit. That's the weapon I have all these years, and I credit that to my success."
He shifts to 2nd gear and blasts away from the corner. Even though the R34 is obviously stock, it made a quick work on the Viper thanks to Kazunori's skill.
Kazunori: "Now, Dream Alliance... let me see how fiery your resolve is. I want to see if it truly transcends machinery."
Kazunori: "I will use my resolve, down to its last bit, to prevail over you! No matter what the odds are! I don't care if I had lost grasp on Vision GT Project. Now, it's just me and you."
End of Page 3
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Vowing to finish the rest tommorow... 
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Page 4: Left Behind
Location: A cemetery in London
Time: 12 pm, three days later
Takanori headed to the cemetery in London. He managed to locate Dennis' grave thanks to Takuma's help.
He lays the flowers on the soil, and crouches down, staring at the name engraved on the tombstone.
Takanori: "Funny... usually names on tombstones are quite long. You are still named as Dennis."
He then looks down for a brief moment, and while he showed a smile, tears came rushing down.
Takanori: "Why is fate so cruel? Why does it have to be you? I thought we are racing buddies! You are a true friend, and I miss you very much. I always remember all the good times we had, day and night!"
Little does he know that Rob is observing him from afar under Hiroyuki's orders, just leaning on a tree.
Takanori: "I cannot believe a man's desire to succeed will have to involve lives. And that person turns out to be the one who I most admire. Tell me, Dennis... what should I do?"
Wiping off his tears, he stands up and turns sorrow into determination.
Takanori: "I will set things right, for everyone. I have been playing around for far too long, and as a result I have been too naive. Dennis, one day you'll seeing down here, an ideal racing world. The fight still rages on."
He then walks away with that new resolve on hand. Upon getting out of the cemetery, he hails a cab.
Location: Brands Hatch, Kent
Time: 4 pm, Sunday
Days have passed, and the second round takes off smoothly. Takanori simply focuses on what's ahead. He has to win the race, for Dennis' sake. However, a hint of anxiety enters.
Takanori: "When was the last time I got involved in this type of action?"
A challenge arrives in the form of the leading Jaguar XJR-9 Group C racing car. This shall test Takanori's mettle...
Takanori: "Mr. Willie is contented for a podium finish, but I will strive higher! That Jaguar will be mine!"
Takanori: "I will have a glimpse of you for a moment. I gotta admit, I've been left behind!"
Takanori: "Thanks to my work, my skills are as good as rust. Everyone in the team is moving up, even Nobuhiko-san. I must bring back the glory I once had! The one that never gives up in any challenge."
And in the next lap, the audience and even his team are surprised by Takanori's shortening of gap between him and the Jaguar.
With less power to deal with, wheelspin is noticeably less for Takanori, making the overtake attempt successful.
Takanori: "If I were to face Kazunori-san, I MUST BE IN MY TOP FORM! I must be the same person he dealt with during that Nurburgring 24 Hours race years ago!"
Takanori: "The time has come for me to return, and the world shall once again recognize Takanori Kanonji! Sorry, I do not intend on being dead last, Dream Alliance!"
Takanori takes another win for the team, and the audience is simply going abuzz about what they witnessed.
Time: 7 pm
The team celebrates victory again, and this time Takanori treats everyone for dinner.
Willie: "It was such a smashing moment, when you took on that Jag."
Marcus: "Everyone thought it's preposterous! You really are on fire."
Takanori: "Being always on fire is what brought me to where I am today. Although I have to make an admission. I was on a slump, for a very long time. And with the current dilemma I'm facing with, I have to put that flame back. I have to do this for everyone, for everyone's dreams, including Dennis. Now, it's my turn to stop the Vision Gran Turismo Project. Everyone in my team is exerting every single effort to put a stop into it. This time, I will be the one doing something."
Marcus: "For Dennis, then."
All members put up a toast.
Takanori: "For Dennis! And we all wished he's here with us right now..."
After that brief emotional moment, Willie returns to his composure and discusses the next step.
Willie: "All right, some things to discuss before we can end this day. We will use another car for the third round, which is why part of the itinerary is to pick that one up."
Takanori: "I see. What would that be?"
Willie: "Come with me tomorrow. The car is pretty much ready to meet you, and it fits your personality very well."
Takanori: "A GT-R?!"
Willie: "Close enough. It's one proper Japanese badass racer."
Time: 1 pm, the next day
The three head to Nissan's satellite plant in Sunderland. Takanori looks at awe at the mass produced vehicles being manufactured and rolled out.
However, they immediately head to a special garage. Willie then asks the employees to take the veil off the car.
Willie: "Here it is."
Takanori: "An R390 Race Car?! Cool! I always want to drive one of these someday! I only got to drive it in Gran Turismo, though... and my boss at work owns a road-going version."
Marcus: "Bonkers! Surely it's meticulously restored."
Willie: "I'm afraid it's not."
Takanori: "Eh?"
Willie: "Some Japanese rich kid, said to be an Editor-In-Chief of some hotshot local car magazine, sold that car and I was the first person who had the dibs. Bought it and pooled in a lot of money for modifications in preparation for the championship. That Zytek you drove is nothing more than a substitute, as I was granted special permission to use it as such while modifications for that R390 were underway. In exchange, though, we got less points from those two races. We have a lot of catching up to do."
Takanori: "This is more than awesome! I can't wait to drive it! First dibs behind the wheel! Once we come back to Japan with this, I'll show this off to my twin, ha!"
Willie: "A practice session in Fuji Speedway is in order. We need to be there immediately. Next week's race will be tougher."
End of Page 4
Location: A cemetery in London
Time: 12 pm, three days later
Takanori headed to the cemetery in London. He managed to locate Dennis' grave thanks to Takuma's help.
He lays the flowers on the soil, and crouches down, staring at the name engraved on the tombstone.
Takanori: "Funny... usually names on tombstones are quite long. You are still named as Dennis."
He then looks down for a brief moment, and while he showed a smile, tears came rushing down.
Takanori: "Why is fate so cruel? Why does it have to be you? I thought we are racing buddies! You are a true friend, and I miss you very much. I always remember all the good times we had, day and night!"
Little does he know that Rob is observing him from afar under Hiroyuki's orders, just leaning on a tree.
Takanori: "I cannot believe a man's desire to succeed will have to involve lives. And that person turns out to be the one who I most admire. Tell me, Dennis... what should I do?"
Wiping off his tears, he stands up and turns sorrow into determination.
Takanori: "I will set things right, for everyone. I have been playing around for far too long, and as a result I have been too naive. Dennis, one day you'll seeing down here, an ideal racing world. The fight still rages on."
He then walks away with that new resolve on hand. Upon getting out of the cemetery, he hails a cab.
************************************************************
Location: Brands Hatch, Kent
Time: 4 pm, Sunday
Days have passed, and the second round takes off smoothly. Takanori simply focuses on what's ahead. He has to win the race, for Dennis' sake. However, a hint of anxiety enters.
Takanori: "When was the last time I got involved in this type of action?"
A challenge arrives in the form of the leading Jaguar XJR-9 Group C racing car. This shall test Takanori's mettle...
Takanori: "Mr. Willie is contented for a podium finish, but I will strive higher! That Jaguar will be mine!"
Takanori: "I will have a glimpse of you for a moment. I gotta admit, I've been left behind!"
Takanori: "Thanks to my work, my skills are as good as rust. Everyone in the team is moving up, even Nobuhiko-san. I must bring back the glory I once had! The one that never gives up in any challenge."
And in the next lap, the audience and even his team are surprised by Takanori's shortening of gap between him and the Jaguar.
With less power to deal with, wheelspin is noticeably less for Takanori, making the overtake attempt successful.
Takanori: "If I were to face Kazunori-san, I MUST BE IN MY TOP FORM! I must be the same person he dealt with during that Nurburgring 24 Hours race years ago!"
Takanori: "The time has come for me to return, and the world shall once again recognize Takanori Kanonji! Sorry, I do not intend on being dead last, Dream Alliance!"
Takanori takes another win for the team, and the audience is simply going abuzz about what they witnessed.
************************************************************
Location: London
Time: 7 pm
The team celebrates victory again, and this time Takanori treats everyone for dinner.
Willie: "It was such a smashing moment, when you took on that Jag."
Marcus: "Everyone thought it's preposterous! You really are on fire."
Takanori: "Being always on fire is what brought me to where I am today. Although I have to make an admission. I was on a slump, for a very long time. And with the current dilemma I'm facing with, I have to put that flame back. I have to do this for everyone, for everyone's dreams, including Dennis. Now, it's my turn to stop the Vision Gran Turismo Project. Everyone in my team is exerting every single effort to put a stop into it. This time, I will be the one doing something."
Marcus: "For Dennis, then."
All members put up a toast.
"FOR DENNIS!"
Takanori: "For Dennis! And we all wished he's here with us right now..."
After that brief emotional moment, Willie returns to his composure and discusses the next step.
Willie: "All right, some things to discuss before we can end this day. We will use another car for the third round, which is why part of the itinerary is to pick that one up."
Takanori: "I see. What would that be?"
Willie: "Come with me tomorrow. The car is pretty much ready to meet you, and it fits your personality very well."
Takanori: "A GT-R?!"
Willie: "Close enough. It's one proper Japanese badass racer."
************************************************************
Location: Nissan Motor Manufacturing UK, Sunderland
Time: 1 pm, the next day
The three head to Nissan's satellite plant in Sunderland. Takanori looks at awe at the mass produced vehicles being manufactured and rolled out.
However, they immediately head to a special garage. Willie then asks the employees to take the veil off the car.
Willie: "Here it is."
Takanori: "An R390 Race Car?! Cool! I always want to drive one of these someday! I only got to drive it in Gran Turismo, though... and my boss at work owns a road-going version."
Marcus: "Bonkers! Surely it's meticulously restored."
Willie: "I'm afraid it's not."
Takanori: "Eh?"
Willie: "Some Japanese rich kid, said to be an Editor-In-Chief of some hotshot local car magazine, sold that car and I was the first person who had the dibs. Bought it and pooled in a lot of money for modifications in preparation for the championship. That Zytek you drove is nothing more than a substitute, as I was granted special permission to use it as such while modifications for that R390 were underway. In exchange, though, we got less points from those two races. We have a lot of catching up to do."
Takanori: "This is more than awesome! I can't wait to drive it! First dibs behind the wheel! Once we come back to Japan with this, I'll show this off to my twin, ha!"
Willie: "A practice session in Fuji Speedway is in order. We need to be there immediately. Next week's race will be tougher."
End of Page 4
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Page 5: Fan vs. Idol
Location: Rob's home, London
Time: 6 pm, the next day
Rob is busy assorting the equipment in the garage just to spend time wisely as Jenny cooks supper. He moves on to checking the number of spanners in various sizes, to see if they're complete.
Suddenly, his phone rings on the desk. With a sigh, he reaches for it. Hiroyuki turns out to be the caller.
Rob: "Mr. Hiroyuki."
Hiroyuki: "How is Takanori?"
Rob: "Shouldn't you be in bed, sir? Anyhow, he left the country already. He's bringing in a different car."
Hiroyuki: "Hmph. I see. Now, for the other task I gave you..."
Rob: "Right. I had it covered. And I am standing beside it right now..."
Hiroyuki: "At least we have the car for the FIA WEC. I was quite worried, actually. I have yet to receive feedback from the other companies I've applied to."
Rob: "You must never worry for someone your age, because that's harmful for your health. Plus, the free time we still have will provide the opportunity for Owen to grow. This car will push Owen to his limits, like a final form."
Rob had the car cleaned and waxed as well. The "Winged B" logo decal shines brilliantly, as if giving off a powerful aura.
Location: Polyphony Digital Headquarters, Tokyo, Japan
Time: 3 pm, the next day
While the employees go with their usual chores, and as well as meeting the deadlines, they fail to notice Takanori's presence, walking past them showing a very serious and determined look.
The secretary is alerted, prompting her to rush to Takanori.
Secretary: "Sir? Do you have an...?"
Her question went unnoticed... and Takanori simply opens the door to Kazunori's office. Inside, he sees his idol collating a pile of paperwork.
Secretary: "Mr. Yamauchi! He's..."
Kazunori: "Please leave us be. Resume your work."
Secretary: "Okay, sir..."
As the secretary closes the door, the two men stare at each other, and Kazunori gives a smile just to ease the tension between them.
Kazunori: "Hehehehe. What brings you here? Finally, a chance to talk to you again. Didn't I mention that we will meet again? Heh, who would have thought that it had to be this way.
Another threat? I've done with it. This may look like an orderly office to you, but my entire project is effectively crippled. You have already won..."
Takanori: "Kazunori-san... please stop this. Just be the person you used to be."
Kazunori: "I am who I am. I never changed. My determination would take me to places, just like yours. I, too, am admired by your valor.
Allow me to ask you a question. Why do you resist change? It's something that never stops."
Takanori: "We accept change, but it is something gradual. You cannot force it upon to others like you do."
Kazunori: "The FIA has gone stale, and the spirit of excitement and true skill are slowly dwindling. Since you are here anyway, allow me to tell you why I started the Vision Gran Turismo project.
While everyone sees it as an exciting concept, I see it as a form of challenge. I want to see the driver's being challenged. I even want to see the old days back.
FIA's regulations have gotten a lot stricter lately. Aerodynamic restrictions, power outputs have been lowering lately. Even one can simply flash money and get inside motorsports. Where is that motorsport spirit? You think some clowns can buy their way in? You must know that even GT3 race cars have traction control and ABS for the discerning customer. Customer is always right, for sure.
The Vision Gran Turismo cars, while technologically superior, provide all the challenges. You failed to see what's within them. As we speak, a car with a power-to-weight ratio of one-to-one is probably speeding around a racetrack in Europe. That kind of technological marvel challenges my drivers. I do not intend them to sit back and be lazy like the others do right now.
Don't you see it? The FIA is the one you should be challenging, not me. I intend to bring back the old days of which it was the test of true driver skill.
And to tell you the truth, I was the one who ordered a goon to take you and see me. My intention was to sway you to my cause. But of course you resisted, and even your twin threatened to kill me.
What about you? What are you fighting for?"
Takanori: "We're quite the same, actually. But we have different directions. We, on the other hand, accept the "challenge" imposed by the FIA. Because those rules TRULY test the driver skill! It goes to show how driver skill can be seen with all those hurdles. But instead of breaking the rules, we are accepting them as challenges. That is how the organization keeps the excitement alive despite external issues.
Your cars are going beyond what's possible, and they actually show the WEAKNESS of its drivers because they depend too much on them! Lives were lost too. Your cars are simply put, overpowered and unfair for everyone. As a result, you have crushed others' dreams, which is the irony of your ideals behind your games.
And with all the battles we've been through, we have shown that humans transcend machinery. That no matter how advanced the car is, the driver's resolve prevails!"
Kazunori: "Hehehehehe... it turns out that we have the same essence, but have differing paths. We do believe in the power of driver skill. Why not join my cause, Takanori-san? After all, we share the same passion. Allow me to guide you in the right direction. You have a bright future ahead of you."
Takanori: "I'm not going to leave the team that I consider as my family, that inspired me to be the best, and valued my self-worth. My resolve is also theirs. We will stop at nothing. I already decided my future the moment I stepped in that MINI Countryman in my very first race. I will continue facing the challenges in the most appropriate way. I love challenging myself.
Your future? Your butt will be kicked, and we will enjoy it!"
Kazunori: "Heh... very well then, let's see how strong your resolve is, Takanori. Let us have another duel, just me and you.
Let me know when, and let's do it in the place where you started your conquest. Deep Forest Raceway."
Takanori clenches his fist, seeing that words have pretty much proved to be futile.
Takanori: "All right then. I'll let you know. Once I'm done with the third round in Fuji, let's do it. You must watch that race on the weekend too, to see what I'm on about."
Time: 1 pm, the next day
In a racetrack situated within the rather dense forests of Nagano, a loud exhaust note scares away the birds, prompting them to fly off from a tree...
The GT-R LM NISMO... a radical new Le Mans Prototype adopting an unorthodox approach, being a front-wheel drive racer.
While not a Vision Gran Turismo car, it still embodies Kazunori Yamauchi's ideas of innovation, for one being a car with a lot of power sending only to the front wheels which, as he claimed, tests driver skill.
Kazunori, with his unrelenting spirit encased in an unassuming exterior, marvels at the car's performance.
Kazunori: "Now, this shall challenge Dream Alliance's ideals. For one last time, I will fight with my ideals on the line."
Kazunori: "I will not allow all of my hard-earned achievements be disappeared in a single race. My resolve burns strong."
Kazunori: "And I want the flaming aura you once emitted, Takanori. Time to get off from your slump!"
End of Page 5
Location: Rob's home, London
Time: 6 pm, the next day
Rob is busy assorting the equipment in the garage just to spend time wisely as Jenny cooks supper. He moves on to checking the number of spanners in various sizes, to see if they're complete.
Suddenly, his phone rings on the desk. With a sigh, he reaches for it. Hiroyuki turns out to be the caller.
Rob: "Mr. Hiroyuki."
Hiroyuki: "How is Takanori?"
Rob: "Shouldn't you be in bed, sir? Anyhow, he left the country already. He's bringing in a different car."
Hiroyuki: "Hmph. I see. Now, for the other task I gave you..."
Rob: "Right. I had it covered. And I am standing beside it right now..."
Hiroyuki: "At least we have the car for the FIA WEC. I was quite worried, actually. I have yet to receive feedback from the other companies I've applied to."
Rob: "You must never worry for someone your age, because that's harmful for your health. Plus, the free time we still have will provide the opportunity for Owen to grow. This car will push Owen to his limits, like a final form."
Rob had the car cleaned and waxed as well. The "Winged B" logo decal shines brilliantly, as if giving off a powerful aura.
************************************************************
Location: Polyphony Digital Headquarters, Tokyo, Japan
Time: 3 pm, the next day
While the employees go with their usual chores, and as well as meeting the deadlines, they fail to notice Takanori's presence, walking past them showing a very serious and determined look.
The secretary is alerted, prompting her to rush to Takanori.
Secretary: "Sir? Do you have an...?"
Her question went unnoticed... and Takanori simply opens the door to Kazunori's office. Inside, he sees his idol collating a pile of paperwork.
Secretary: "Mr. Yamauchi! He's..."
Kazunori: "Please leave us be. Resume your work."
Secretary: "Okay, sir..."
As the secretary closes the door, the two men stare at each other, and Kazunori gives a smile just to ease the tension between them.
Kazunori: "Hehehehe. What brings you here? Finally, a chance to talk to you again. Didn't I mention that we will meet again? Heh, who would have thought that it had to be this way.
Another threat? I've done with it. This may look like an orderly office to you, but my entire project is effectively crippled. You have already won..."
Takanori: "Kazunori-san... please stop this. Just be the person you used to be."
Kazunori: "I am who I am. I never changed. My determination would take me to places, just like yours. I, too, am admired by your valor.
Allow me to ask you a question. Why do you resist change? It's something that never stops."
Takanori: "We accept change, but it is something gradual. You cannot force it upon to others like you do."
Kazunori: "The FIA has gone stale, and the spirit of excitement and true skill are slowly dwindling. Since you are here anyway, allow me to tell you why I started the Vision Gran Turismo project.
While everyone sees it as an exciting concept, I see it as a form of challenge. I want to see the driver's being challenged. I even want to see the old days back.
FIA's regulations have gotten a lot stricter lately. Aerodynamic restrictions, power outputs have been lowering lately. Even one can simply flash money and get inside motorsports. Where is that motorsport spirit? You think some clowns can buy their way in? You must know that even GT3 race cars have traction control and ABS for the discerning customer. Customer is always right, for sure.
The Vision Gran Turismo cars, while technologically superior, provide all the challenges. You failed to see what's within them. As we speak, a car with a power-to-weight ratio of one-to-one is probably speeding around a racetrack in Europe. That kind of technological marvel challenges my drivers. I do not intend them to sit back and be lazy like the others do right now.
Don't you see it? The FIA is the one you should be challenging, not me. I intend to bring back the old days of which it was the test of true driver skill.
And to tell you the truth, I was the one who ordered a goon to take you and see me. My intention was to sway you to my cause. But of course you resisted, and even your twin threatened to kill me.
What about you? What are you fighting for?"
Takanori: "We're quite the same, actually. But we have different directions. We, on the other hand, accept the "challenge" imposed by the FIA. Because those rules TRULY test the driver skill! It goes to show how driver skill can be seen with all those hurdles. But instead of breaking the rules, we are accepting them as challenges. That is how the organization keeps the excitement alive despite external issues.
Your cars are going beyond what's possible, and they actually show the WEAKNESS of its drivers because they depend too much on them! Lives were lost too. Your cars are simply put, overpowered and unfair for everyone. As a result, you have crushed others' dreams, which is the irony of your ideals behind your games.
And with all the battles we've been through, we have shown that humans transcend machinery. That no matter how advanced the car is, the driver's resolve prevails!"
Kazunori: "Hehehehehe... it turns out that we have the same essence, but have differing paths. We do believe in the power of driver skill. Why not join my cause, Takanori-san? After all, we share the same passion. Allow me to guide you in the right direction. You have a bright future ahead of you."
Takanori: "I'm not going to leave the team that I consider as my family, that inspired me to be the best, and valued my self-worth. My resolve is also theirs. We will stop at nothing. I already decided my future the moment I stepped in that MINI Countryman in my very first race. I will continue facing the challenges in the most appropriate way. I love challenging myself.
Your future? Your butt will be kicked, and we will enjoy it!"
Kazunori: "Heh... very well then, let's see how strong your resolve is, Takanori. Let us have another duel, just me and you.
Let me know when, and let's do it in the place where you started your conquest. Deep Forest Raceway."
Takanori clenches his fist, seeing that words have pretty much proved to be futile.
Takanori: "All right then. I'll let you know. Once I'm done with the third round in Fuji, let's do it. You must watch that race on the weekend too, to see what I'm on about."
************************************************************
Location: Deep Forest Raceway, Nagano, Japan
Time: 1 pm, the next day
In a racetrack situated within the rather dense forests of Nagano, a loud exhaust note scares away the birds, prompting them to fly off from a tree...
The GT-R LM NISMO... a radical new Le Mans Prototype adopting an unorthodox approach, being a front-wheel drive racer.
While not a Vision Gran Turismo car, it still embodies Kazunori Yamauchi's ideas of innovation, for one being a car with a lot of power sending only to the front wheels which, as he claimed, tests driver skill.
Kazunori, with his unrelenting spirit encased in an unassuming exterior, marvels at the car's performance.
Kazunori: "Now, this shall challenge Dream Alliance's ideals. For one last time, I will fight with my ideals on the line."
Kazunori: "I will not allow all of my hard-earned achievements be disappeared in a single race. My resolve burns strong."
Kazunori: "And I want the flaming aura you once emitted, Takanori. Time to get off from your slump!"
End of Page 5
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Page 6: The Announcement
Location: Fuji Speedway, Shizuoka, Japan
Time: 1 pm, Sunday
Come another Sunday, and the third round begins. Takanori once again took the helm of the R390 first, knowing fully his eagerness to drive it. Marcus is to switch places with him later.
And as planned, Kazunori is at the bleachers watching the event unfold.
Kazunori: "An R390, eh? That shall test your ideals, then. It's basically a retired race car, and can you prevail with it?"
Initially, it shows promise, as it easily overtakes its more advanced opponents.
Kazunori: "It is indeed true that vehicle performance is a huge factor, and Takanori-san shows it. But he used his skill alone to control such powerful machine."
And the display of performance keeps on getting better, as Takanori heads up the ranks.
Takanori: "Kazunori-san, keep your eyes open. You'll really see what Dream Alliance is fighting for. It's rather simple, really."
Even though he is pressured behind by more powerful and sophisticated LMPs, the R390 keeps its composure. However, it doesn't seem to be...
Takanori: "The only issue I have so far is throttle control. 800 horsepower channeling to just rear wheels is a challenge."
Takanori: "To be honest though, I rarely drive rear-wheel driven performance cars. I thought my supercharged Corvette can prove to me that 800 HP is easy to manage. It's entirely different on this car!"
Kazunori: "Quite an interesting display of feat, Takanori-san. You do prove your example very well."
Kazunori: "But that doesn't mean I'm going to concede. Now that I saw everything, I can formulate my strategy against you. Our clash of resolve, will come into full swing!"
Time: 7 pm
Takanori and the team bag another win. Their teamwork is efficient, for them to win that endurance round today.
Because of that, I have to cook dinner again.
Takuma: "Dinner's served! But let EVERYONE take their seat, Takanori."
Takanori: "Heeeheeheee... okay."
Tomoko: "Oh you! Well, since everyone is here, let us eat, shall we?"
Takuma: "All right."
Chomp down, everyone. I turned on the television first, and switched to a cable sports channel. Oh... motorsport news.
It's Alan Long! I knew it... he'll take over. Dammit, just as we thought everything shall end. A press conference has shown...
Takuma: "Well, blame it to old man Kaz. Though he's not pulling the strings now."
Takanori: "Still, I have to settle things once and for all. Who knows, maybe he can shed light into this. He's the one who started it after all."
Takuma: "There you go again, but this time I see a glimmer of hope that he will actually help us.
But of course, there is a saying - "Beat him into it." And that's how the Kanonjis roll."
Takanori shows a confident grin. It seems that he is ready. That's the spirit!
Takanori: "Yeah. Damn right!"
Takuma: "And stop staring at the TV and eat your fill. No one wants a cooled-down hot meal."
End of Page 6
Location: Fuji Speedway, Shizuoka, Japan
Time: 1 pm, Sunday
Come another Sunday, and the third round begins. Takanori once again took the helm of the R390 first, knowing fully his eagerness to drive it. Marcus is to switch places with him later.
And as planned, Kazunori is at the bleachers watching the event unfold.
Kazunori: "An R390, eh? That shall test your ideals, then. It's basically a retired race car, and can you prevail with it?"
Initially, it shows promise, as it easily overtakes its more advanced opponents.
Kazunori: "It is indeed true that vehicle performance is a huge factor, and Takanori-san shows it. But he used his skill alone to control such powerful machine."
And the display of performance keeps on getting better, as Takanori heads up the ranks.
Takanori: "Kazunori-san, keep your eyes open. You'll really see what Dream Alliance is fighting for. It's rather simple, really."
Even though he is pressured behind by more powerful and sophisticated LMPs, the R390 keeps its composure. However, it doesn't seem to be...
Takanori: "The only issue I have so far is throttle control. 800 horsepower channeling to just rear wheels is a challenge."
Takanori: "To be honest though, I rarely drive rear-wheel driven performance cars. I thought my supercharged Corvette can prove to me that 800 HP is easy to manage. It's entirely different on this car!"
Kazunori: "Quite an interesting display of feat, Takanori-san. You do prove your example very well."
Kazunori: "But that doesn't mean I'm going to concede. Now that I saw everything, I can formulate my strategy against you. Our clash of resolve, will come into full swing!"
************************************************************
Location: Kanonji Home, Aoyama, Tokyo
Time: 7 pm
Takanori and the team bag another win. Their teamwork is efficient, for them to win that endurance round today.
Because of that, I have to cook dinner again.
Takuma: "Dinner's served! But let EVERYONE take their seat, Takanori."
Takanori: "Heeeheeheee... okay."
Tomoko: "Oh you! Well, since everyone is here, let us eat, shall we?"
Takuma: "All right."
Chomp down, everyone. I turned on the television first, and switched to a cable sports channel. Oh... motorsport news.
"The controversial Vision Gran Turismo Project thought to have pulled off the plug for good. But it makes a comeback as its new director have announced its intentions to participate in the FIA WEC in the coming months."
Takanori: "New director?!"
It's Alan Long! I knew it... he'll take over. Dammit, just as we thought everything shall end. A press conference has shown...
Alan: "I have officially taken the helm of the illustrious Vision Gran Turismo Project. The project still has lots of potential to carve the future of motorsports. We assure all those involved into motorsport that the future is within our reach.
The Vision Gran Turismo Team is currently processing driver applications for the FIA WEC and the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is stringent, very much so. But this will mean that the drivers are also to be shaped into powerhouses. This is necessary for us to achieve that said goal.
In the coming weeks, we shall unveil the drivers and the car that will represent us, to start changing the future."
Takanori: "When will this end?"The Vision Gran Turismo Team is currently processing driver applications for the FIA WEC and the upcoming 24 Hours of Le Mans. It is stringent, very much so. But this will mean that the drivers are also to be shaped into powerhouses. This is necessary for us to achieve that said goal.
In the coming weeks, we shall unveil the drivers and the car that will represent us, to start changing the future."
Takuma: "Well, blame it to old man Kaz. Though he's not pulling the strings now."
Takanori: "Still, I have to settle things once and for all. Who knows, maybe he can shed light into this. He's the one who started it after all."
Takuma: "There you go again, but this time I see a glimmer of hope that he will actually help us.
But of course, there is a saying - "Beat him into it." And that's how the Kanonjis roll."
Takanori shows a confident grin. It seems that he is ready. That's the spirit!
Takanori: "Yeah. Damn right!"
Takuma: "And stop staring at the TV and eat your fill. No one wants a cooled-down hot meal."
End of Page 6
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Alan just doesn't know when to quit. Talk about persistence.
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Page 7: Deep Forest
Location: Kanonji Mochi Shop, Aoyama
Time: 3 pm, Saturday
Just a day before the scheduled race against Kaz, I called everyone for a meeting in the shop. There's a section of the shop that can be closed when there are only a few customers, so I used it as a conference room of some sorts. Hiroyuki-san arrives as well, but he orders a box of mochi first...
He enters the room, and mom joins in as well.
Takuma: "I'm sure you've heard the news."
Maria: "Yep, and it's cringe-inducing."
Andy: "That kid never gives up, huh? Well, I'm not surprised. We used to be playmates in elementary, and he doesn't know when to stop playing unless his parents arrive."
Takanori: "So... do we still have to hunt down Kazunori-san?"
Takuma: "Definitely. Your showdown is tomorrow, right? You'd better be there early so that you can have the time to practice."
Hiroyuki: "The cards are on the table, anyway, so let's take the opportunity. Who knows, when we defeat Yamauchi, then he could lend us a hand. I find it hard to believe he lost control of his own project that easily."
I noticed Rob raising one of his eyebrows. But he seems to enjoy the red bean mochi.
Takanori: "Tomorrow, I will have the showdown that shall change my life."
Takuma: "Good statement. Once the race is over, your views will change."
Hiroyuki: "All right, this is all or nothing. Takanori, show to him what we're really fighting for. Beating Kazunori will send a direct message to Alan."
Location: Deep Forest Raceway, Nagano
Time: 11 am, the next day
We've been in the track as early as 9 am. Our crew is working round the clock to make the R390's settings right. But so far...
Owen: "An R390 GT1..."
Rob: "Such a sorrow that Dennis will never be able to drive that one."
Maria: "Did it actually achieve a podium finish?"
Nigel: "I looked up its history, and that car did. Though of course, the one Takanori-san driving today is simply put, a converted version from road to racer. Kind of a replica, if you can say."
Rob: "One heck of a replica. It's mind-numbingly quick."
However, Takanori is actually struggling to keep the car together...
Takanori: "The course's continuous corners makes it hard to adjust the throttle. Boost kicks in very immensely!"
Takanori: "Plus, I don't even know what Kazunori-san will be using against me! I'm already in trouble!"
Takanori returns to the pit lane. He already looks stressed...
Takanori: "Fill her up with 20 more liters of gasoline. And change the tires."
Nigel: "Should we go for a softer compound?"
Takanori: "The R390 eats tires, so I say we stick to hard compounds. And maybe you could stiffen the front dampers a bit. I'm still struggling to keep it composed. It's 800 horsepower to the rear wheels we're talking about."
Rob: "If that's your case, then Dennis would have been crying back to me."
Takuma: "You're just used to driving 4WD with your 700 horsepower GT-R. You cannot attack the same way, of course. Just remember the times you were driving your 800 horsepower Corvette. It's somehow like that, but do"
Meanwhile, we heard a large truck oncoming, and then backed up. Kazunori is here, finally. And he lends a hand in taking out the car from the inside.
It's being pulled out slowly, and then to all our shock...
...A GT-R LM NISMO?! This could spell trouble.
Takanori: "GT-R!"
Kazunori: "I hope I'm not late. And yes, I have bought this car so as to train the GT Academy drivers. I have at least one less problem to deal with. I cannot believe that the project I've worked on for years will just disappear from my grasp. I guess I have paid the ultimate price.
But now... it's time for me to show my true resolve, the real reason why I keep fighting. It's the battle of resolves, am I right, Takanori-san?"
All I can see from Takanori is a grin from his face. His confidence has returned, and he has gotten braver, the fact that he is racing against his idol.
Takanori: "Let us proceed, shall we?"
Kazunori: "I'm sure 5 laps are enough for us to prove ourselves, right? Besides, this GT-R has to be returned immediately for further testing."
After Nigel and the rest of our mechanics are done with the setup, the two cars are lined up at the starting point.
Takanori: "This track... it brought back the memories of my very first race that changed my life. Now, this is another race that will make a shift."
Kazunori: "This will be entirely different from our previous encounter. I will give everything I got. Admonish your admiration for me, Takanori-san."
The lights are ready. All they have to wait is green!
GREEN! And they're off! Oddly, that was a poor start for the GT-R...
Nigel: "That launch. So the rumors about the hybrid system are true. The GT-R is strictly running in front wheel drive."
Front wheel drive?! So an LMP car with over 600 horsepower going to all front wheels. Thinking out of the box is great and all, but...
We have an inboard camera installed in the R390. Takanori is doing great, however suddenly...
...he lost control after the first corner! The struggle is real.
Takanori: "Shoot! I knew it would bite!"
Because of that, Kaz was given a huge lead. That GT-R is bad news, Takanori!
FIGHT! YOU HAVE TO!
Kazunori: "I expect nothing less from this GT-R. It's such an interesting innovation from them."
Takanori: "Am I that far away? Tch! Even this car is also my opponent!"
Takanori breathes out a huge sigh, and after a moment of silence...
...his right foot buries the accelerator.
Takanori: "I am Takanori Kanonji...
End of Page 7
Location: Kanonji Mochi Shop, Aoyama
Time: 3 pm, Saturday
Just a day before the scheduled race against Kaz, I called everyone for a meeting in the shop. There's a section of the shop that can be closed when there are only a few customers, so I used it as a conference room of some sorts. Hiroyuki-san arrives as well, but he orders a box of mochi first...
He enters the room, and mom joins in as well.
Takuma: "I'm sure you've heard the news."
Maria: "Yep, and it's cringe-inducing."
Andy: "That kid never gives up, huh? Well, I'm not surprised. We used to be playmates in elementary, and he doesn't know when to stop playing unless his parents arrive."
Takanori: "So... do we still have to hunt down Kazunori-san?"
Takuma: "Definitely. Your showdown is tomorrow, right? You'd better be there early so that you can have the time to practice."
Hiroyuki: "The cards are on the table, anyway, so let's take the opportunity. Who knows, when we defeat Yamauchi, then he could lend us a hand. I find it hard to believe he lost control of his own project that easily."
I noticed Rob raising one of his eyebrows. But he seems to enjoy the red bean mochi.
Takanori: "Tomorrow, I will have the showdown that shall change my life."
Takuma: "Good statement. Once the race is over, your views will change."
Hiroyuki: "All right, this is all or nothing. Takanori, show to him what we're really fighting for. Beating Kazunori will send a direct message to Alan."
************************************************************
Location: Deep Forest Raceway, Nagano
Time: 11 am, the next day
We've been in the track as early as 9 am. Our crew is working round the clock to make the R390's settings right. But so far...
Owen: "An R390 GT1..."
Rob: "Such a sorrow that Dennis will never be able to drive that one."
Maria: "Did it actually achieve a podium finish?"
Nigel: "I looked up its history, and that car did. Though of course, the one Takanori-san driving today is simply put, a converted version from road to racer. Kind of a replica, if you can say."
Rob: "One heck of a replica. It's mind-numbingly quick."
However, Takanori is actually struggling to keep the car together...
Takanori: "The course's continuous corners makes it hard to adjust the throttle. Boost kicks in very immensely!"
Takanori: "Plus, I don't even know what Kazunori-san will be using against me! I'm already in trouble!"
Takanori returns to the pit lane. He already looks stressed...
Takanori: "Fill her up with 20 more liters of gasoline. And change the tires."
Nigel: "Should we go for a softer compound?"
Takanori: "The R390 eats tires, so I say we stick to hard compounds. And maybe you could stiffen the front dampers a bit. I'm still struggling to keep it composed. It's 800 horsepower to the rear wheels we're talking about."
Rob: "If that's your case, then Dennis would have been crying back to me."
Takuma: "You're just used to driving 4WD with your 700 horsepower GT-R. You cannot attack the same way, of course. Just remember the times you were driving your 800 horsepower Corvette. It's somehow like that, but do"
Meanwhile, we heard a large truck oncoming, and then backed up. Kazunori is here, finally. And he lends a hand in taking out the car from the inside.
It's being pulled out slowly, and then to all our shock...
...A GT-R LM NISMO?! This could spell trouble.
Takanori: "GT-R!"
Kazunori: "I hope I'm not late. And yes, I have bought this car so as to train the GT Academy drivers. I have at least one less problem to deal with. I cannot believe that the project I've worked on for years will just disappear from my grasp. I guess I have paid the ultimate price.
But now... it's time for me to show my true resolve, the real reason why I keep fighting. It's the battle of resolves, am I right, Takanori-san?"
All I can see from Takanori is a grin from his face. His confidence has returned, and he has gotten braver, the fact that he is racing against his idol.
Takanori: "Let us proceed, shall we?"
Kazunori: "I'm sure 5 laps are enough for us to prove ourselves, right? Besides, this GT-R has to be returned immediately for further testing."
After Nigel and the rest of our mechanics are done with the setup, the two cars are lined up at the starting point.
Takanori: "This track... it brought back the memories of my very first race that changed my life. Now, this is another race that will make a shift."
Kazunori: "This will be entirely different from our previous encounter. I will give everything I got. Admonish your admiration for me, Takanori-san."
The lights are ready. All they have to wait is green!
GREEN! And they're off! Oddly, that was a poor start for the GT-R...
Nigel: "That launch. So the rumors about the hybrid system are true. The GT-R is strictly running in front wheel drive."
Front wheel drive?! So an LMP car with over 600 horsepower going to all front wheels. Thinking out of the box is great and all, but...
We have an inboard camera installed in the R390. Takanori is doing great, however suddenly...
...he lost control after the first corner! The struggle is real.
Takanori: "Shoot! I knew it would bite!"
Because of that, Kaz was given a huge lead. That GT-R is bad news, Takanori!
FIGHT! YOU HAVE TO!
Kazunori: "I expect nothing less from this GT-R. It's such an interesting innovation from them."
Takanori: "Am I that far away? Tch! Even this car is also my opponent!"
Takanori breathes out a huge sigh, and after a moment of silence...
...his right foot buries the accelerator.
Takanori: "I am Takanori Kanonji...
...and I AM A FIGHTER!!!"
End of Page 7
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And then the GT-R LM catches fire and Takunori wins by default. The End.
Sorry, I had to go for this joke. But I do hope that this battle will be a bit more exciting than the problematic Le Mans debut of the car...
Sorry, I had to go for this joke. But I do hope that this battle will be a bit more exciting than the problematic Le Mans debut of the car...
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Old school vs an ugly front drive pig. Bring it on.
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Boy, isn't the GT-R LM Nismo popular. I guess that it's only suitable for Kaz and the LM to be villains in this story, since people seen to have an irrational hatred for both...
Thomas__633
(Banned)
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Maybe because of the natural silliness of the GT Academy Round 4 event and that Q and A thing you had on GTPlanet last year. Also will the final boss (of the game) be the Tomahawk?
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Actually, the Tomahawk will be reserved for Glimpse II, a special story set 20 years after the current plot.
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Page 8: Takanori's Rage
Keep a cool head, Takanori. I've been in that situation numerous times. Concentrate and then you'll see Kaz's butt right in front of you.
Since Nigel is here, I have to end this curiosity once and for all. Why would Nissan think out of the box?
Takuma: "Nigel, as far as we know, the GT-R LM mainly runs in front-wheel drive and temporarily four-wheel drive. Why would Nissan come up with such radical concept?"
Nigel: "It's quite simple. The R390 driven by Takanori-san is the answer. Racing cars are mostly rear wheel drive, am I right, regardless of power output? Cars that are in LMP1 class have enormous power outputs, and along the fact that they are very light and mid-engined, they are as close as a Formula 1 car when it comes to technical and dynamic superiority.
However, it comes with a price."
Nigel: "Those cars of that class are very challenging to drive, despite all the advancements to the suspension and aerodynamics. In the low-speed corners, proper throttle control is needed."
Takuma: "Of course."
Nigel: "And because of that, Nissan aims to avoid that weakness by making the GT-R LM a front-heavy car. Understeer would come into mind, but they knew it would happen. So, they made the front tires almost twice as wide as the rear, to provide a greater turn-in ability. To reduce torque steer, this is when the electric motors kick in. They will power the rear wheels for corner exiting. For that brief moment, the car produces over 1000 horsepower."
Takuma: "So in short, we are indeed in trouble. Those few seconds of boost after cornering can help a lot, knowing the nature of this race track. It favors Kaz."
Even so, nothing beats the burning fighting spirit of the Kanonjis. That is exactly the reason why we are beating the crap out of your Vision GT cars, old man Kaz!
Takanori: "I can see him. Whew..."
Takanori: "2nd lap... and I cannot afford to relax! I have studied that GT-R LM the moment Nissan debuted it. I know what it can do in low-speed cornering!"
Kazunori: "It's the third lap. At least you're using all your effort in keeping up. Your resolve starts to shine."
Kazunori: "But my resolve will fight back. Why trouble yourself with the car that is a pain to drive? You can use your skills to your full extent if you are not stressed out at all!"
Takanori: "I'm coming... I am coming. The real battle is yet to start!"
Kazunori: "The Vision GT cars aim to get the best of the driver. You can be in your top form when nothing holds you back!"
Takanori: "The more difficult your car is to drive, the more of your driving skills will be sharpened. Aniki taught that. In that way, you can adapt and turn that drawback into your greatest strength! This is essentially what we're fighting for.
NO MATTER WHAT CAR YOU DRIVE, THE DRIVER SKILL PREVAILS AT THE END OF THE DAY!"
And on that cue... everyone is surprised to see Takanori now right behind Kazunori at the start of 4th lap.
Takuma: "Impressive. For such a short span of time, Takanori manages to change the game."
Rob: "I guess old school is still cool after all."
Takanori's back in his groove. Now, time to deal with Kazunori... and don't mess it up this time!
Takanori: "Gotcha. What's the problem? I thought the GT-R will be the greatest weapon for Le Mans?"
Kazunori: "Impressive. For such an aged and peaky race car, you managed to turn the tables. You've rubbed it in more than enough."
However, Takanori notices unusual movements showed by the GT-R.
Takanori: "Its forcing to hug the line. Kazunori-san must have been steering the wheel even more. This is where the laws of physics go against him! It's FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE no matter how much technology conceals it!"
It's the final lap! Do not hold back! Show him our rage!
Takanori: "Sorry, Kazunori-san. Looks like I'm going to throw away my every last bit of admiration for you, for just a while."
Takanori: "I can be a stubborn jerk if I want to!"
End of Page 8
Keep a cool head, Takanori. I've been in that situation numerous times. Concentrate and then you'll see Kaz's butt right in front of you.
Since Nigel is here, I have to end this curiosity once and for all. Why would Nissan think out of the box?
Takuma: "Nigel, as far as we know, the GT-R LM mainly runs in front-wheel drive and temporarily four-wheel drive. Why would Nissan come up with such radical concept?"
Nigel: "It's quite simple. The R390 driven by Takanori-san is the answer. Racing cars are mostly rear wheel drive, am I right, regardless of power output? Cars that are in LMP1 class have enormous power outputs, and along the fact that they are very light and mid-engined, they are as close as a Formula 1 car when it comes to technical and dynamic superiority.
However, it comes with a price."
Nigel: "Those cars of that class are very challenging to drive, despite all the advancements to the suspension and aerodynamics. In the low-speed corners, proper throttle control is needed."
Takuma: "Of course."
Nigel: "And because of that, Nissan aims to avoid that weakness by making the GT-R LM a front-heavy car. Understeer would come into mind, but they knew it would happen. So, they made the front tires almost twice as wide as the rear, to provide a greater turn-in ability. To reduce torque steer, this is when the electric motors kick in. They will power the rear wheels for corner exiting. For that brief moment, the car produces over 1000 horsepower."
Takuma: "So in short, we are indeed in trouble. Those few seconds of boost after cornering can help a lot, knowing the nature of this race track. It favors Kaz."
Even so, nothing beats the burning fighting spirit of the Kanonjis. That is exactly the reason why we are beating the crap out of your Vision GT cars, old man Kaz!
Takanori: "I can see him. Whew..."
Takanori: "2nd lap... and I cannot afford to relax! I have studied that GT-R LM the moment Nissan debuted it. I know what it can do in low-speed cornering!"
Kazunori: "It's the third lap. At least you're using all your effort in keeping up. Your resolve starts to shine."
Kazunori: "But my resolve will fight back. Why trouble yourself with the car that is a pain to drive? You can use your skills to your full extent if you are not stressed out at all!"
Takanori: "I'm coming... I am coming. The real battle is yet to start!"
Kazunori: "The Vision GT cars aim to get the best of the driver. You can be in your top form when nothing holds you back!"
Takanori: "The more difficult your car is to drive, the more of your driving skills will be sharpened. Aniki taught that. In that way, you can adapt and turn that drawback into your greatest strength! This is essentially what we're fighting for.
NO MATTER WHAT CAR YOU DRIVE, THE DRIVER SKILL PREVAILS AT THE END OF THE DAY!"
And on that cue... everyone is surprised to see Takanori now right behind Kazunori at the start of 4th lap.
Takuma: "Impressive. For such a short span of time, Takanori manages to change the game."
Rob: "I guess old school is still cool after all."
Takanori's back in his groove. Now, time to deal with Kazunori... and don't mess it up this time!
Takanori: "Gotcha. What's the problem? I thought the GT-R will be the greatest weapon for Le Mans?"
Kazunori: "Impressive. For such an aged and peaky race car, you managed to turn the tables. You've rubbed it in more than enough."
However, Takanori notices unusual movements showed by the GT-R.
Takanori: "Its forcing to hug the line. Kazunori-san must have been steering the wheel even more. This is where the laws of physics go against him! It's FRONT-WHEEL DRIVE no matter how much technology conceals it!"
It's the final lap! Do not hold back! Show him our rage!
Takanori: "Sorry, Kazunori-san. Looks like I'm going to throw away my every last bit of admiration for you, for just a while."
Takanori: "I can be a stubborn jerk if I want to!"
End of Page 8
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Page 9: The Last Stand
Takanori... I am very well aware of your skill level. Of course, you whooped me before! You defeated Kaz before as well! You've accomplished so much!
Because of that, you have a lot of reasons why you should not give up, and keep on fighting for what is right!
(Background Music)
Takanori: "Let's go, old man!"
Kazunori: "The understeer got a lot more noticeable. I am finding it hard to tuck it in."
Takanori: "I'm not gonna let up for a second! That's how we fight!!!"
They hybrid system somehow helped Kazunori get out of the skirmish, but Takanori's fighting spirit clearly burns much brighter, and obliterates any form of technology...
The understeer takes a large toll for the GT-R.
Takanori: "You cannot deny the fact it's front-wheel drive, Kazunori-san! Your car is turning the tables!"
From what we can see, the GT-R suffers from understeer, a classic trait of Nissans bearing that name.
They're heading for the final corner! Even if it seems hopeless, keep on fighting!
Takanori: "Keep on going, R390!"
This time around, Takanori's will won today's battle. No matter how much technology you put in your car, it'll all be useless if you don't have the skill to utilize all of them.
Even the simplest of weapons can change the course of war. Do not overlook them. The warriors are the one determining their fate...
Maria: "Wooohoooo!!!"
Rob: "That shall send him back to his office and finish all of the unreleased content."
Kazunori: "You win. Your resolve outshines mine. There is no doubt, that one day you will change the face of the racing world. I have always thought, that I'll be the one setting the stage."
Aaaaaaand upon Takanori's arrival, we all swarmed around him. You nailed it this time, little shrimp. You finally did the right thing.
I then strongly pat on his back.
Takuma: "You finally did it. Your dilemma's gone."
Maria: "Way to go! I wish I am as skilled as you."
Takanori: "Thanks, guys. You all helped me prevail through this. We all have to fight for our future, right?"
Suddenly, Kazunori arrives. But instead of showing a bitter face, he's actually smiling.
Kazunori: "You have truly won this bout that lasted as far as history will remember. I can tell that you can stop whatever's left. I'm no longer behind the helm. The very project I started turned on me."
Takanori: "Kazunori-san, this is one battle I shall never forget. I've learned so much. Admiration can only take you so far, and in the end we all have to face reality. I learned that the hard way.
There is nothing wrong with having big dreams, but as long as you don't hurt anyone. Your vision took lives, you know? That's not something to be expected from an honorable man such as you."
Kazunori: "Right... oh, and there's one more thing.
I leave it all up to you. Now that your resolve prevailed over mine, it's time for me to fully believe in you.
You truly are a great man, Takanori-san. I cannot believe that who was once an avid Gran Turismo player now turned to be the most dynamic personalities in the world. Times are changing fast.
Do not let me down, young man. Bring your ideals further."
Kazunori simply walked past us after that, and Rob... didn't really do anything at all. He's just leaning on the wall and once again showed his trademark smug look.
Maria: "Rob?"
Hiroyuki: "Quite surprising you didn't call any of your men."
Rob: "That's because he already promised to help us the moment he found out Alan took over. In exchange for his freedom, he will assist us in any way he can."
Maria: "That runt! He could have just said it directly to us! Ugh... I even spoiled the opportunity of beating him up."
Rob: "What are we waiting for? Time to get our arses moving. Just like in monster movies...
...we have to kill it before it lays eggs."
End of Page 9
Takanori... I am very well aware of your skill level. Of course, you whooped me before! You defeated Kaz before as well! You've accomplished so much!
Because of that, you have a lot of reasons why you should not give up, and keep on fighting for what is right!
(Background Music)
Takanori: "Let's go, old man!"
Kazunori: "The understeer got a lot more noticeable. I am finding it hard to tuck it in."
Takanori: "I'm not gonna let up for a second! That's how we fight!!!"
They hybrid system somehow helped Kazunori get out of the skirmish, but Takanori's fighting spirit clearly burns much brighter, and obliterates any form of technology...
The understeer takes a large toll for the GT-R.
Takanori: "You cannot deny the fact it's front-wheel drive, Kazunori-san! Your car is turning the tables!"
From what we can see, the GT-R suffers from understeer, a classic trait of Nissans bearing that name.
They're heading for the final corner! Even if it seems hopeless, keep on fighting!
Takanori: "Keep on going, R390!"
This time around, Takanori's will won today's battle. No matter how much technology you put in your car, it'll all be useless if you don't have the skill to utilize all of them.
Even the simplest of weapons can change the course of war. Do not overlook them. The warriors are the one determining their fate...
Maria: "Wooohoooo!!!"
Rob: "That shall send him back to his office and finish all of the unreleased content."
Kazunori: "You win. Your resolve outshines mine. There is no doubt, that one day you will change the face of the racing world. I have always thought, that I'll be the one setting the stage."
Aaaaaaand upon Takanori's arrival, we all swarmed around him. You nailed it this time, little shrimp. You finally did the right thing.
I then strongly pat on his back.
Takuma: "You finally did it. Your dilemma's gone."
Maria: "Way to go! I wish I am as skilled as you."
Takanori: "Thanks, guys. You all helped me prevail through this. We all have to fight for our future, right?"
Suddenly, Kazunori arrives. But instead of showing a bitter face, he's actually smiling.
Kazunori: "You have truly won this bout that lasted as far as history will remember. I can tell that you can stop whatever's left. I'm no longer behind the helm. The very project I started turned on me."
Takanori: "Kazunori-san, this is one battle I shall never forget. I've learned so much. Admiration can only take you so far, and in the end we all have to face reality. I learned that the hard way.
There is nothing wrong with having big dreams, but as long as you don't hurt anyone. Your vision took lives, you know? That's not something to be expected from an honorable man such as you."
Kazunori: "Right... oh, and there's one more thing.
I leave it all up to you. Now that your resolve prevailed over mine, it's time for me to fully believe in you.
You truly are a great man, Takanori-san. I cannot believe that who was once an avid Gran Turismo player now turned to be the most dynamic personalities in the world. Times are changing fast.
Do not let me down, young man. Bring your ideals further."
Kazunori simply walked past us after that, and Rob... didn't really do anything at all. He's just leaning on the wall and once again showed his trademark smug look.
Maria: "Rob?"
Hiroyuki: "Quite surprising you didn't call any of your men."
Rob: "That's because he already promised to help us the moment he found out Alan took over. In exchange for his freedom, he will assist us in any way he can."
*flashback*
Kazunori: "Oh Mr. Rob Hatch, we meet again. I must say you are one heck of monster. To think you destroyed my headquarters all by yourself."
Rob: "What do you want, old man? I've got little time left from enjoying this little confectionery called Mochi."
Kazunori: "I can tell you that your battle isn't over yet. One of my dearly beloved apprentices apparently took over the very project I worked so hard on. Trust is very brittle."
Rob: "When one's got an ambition, he'll risk everything. Even if it includes morals."
Kazunori: "You've already rubbed that on to me multiple times. Hear me out, young man. Since I started it, I know very well how to end it. I'll provide everything you need for your conquest. I'm leaving all the racing up to you."
Rob: "What is this? Striking a deal? That's complete bollocks. I thought you are to race Takanori."
Kazunori: "That's a different story. My resolve versus his. But this big dilemma, we ought to have focus.
Your future, and as well as your brother's, are still at risk. You cannot rest just yet. But I assure you, I will hold my end of the bargain."
*flashback end*
Takuma: "So he's already on our side even before this race."Kazunori: "Oh Mr. Rob Hatch, we meet again. I must say you are one heck of monster. To think you destroyed my headquarters all by yourself."
Rob: "What do you want, old man? I've got little time left from enjoying this little confectionery called Mochi."
Kazunori: "I can tell you that your battle isn't over yet. One of my dearly beloved apprentices apparently took over the very project I worked so hard on. Trust is very brittle."
Rob: "When one's got an ambition, he'll risk everything. Even if it includes morals."
Kazunori: "You've already rubbed that on to me multiple times. Hear me out, young man. Since I started it, I know very well how to end it. I'll provide everything you need for your conquest. I'm leaving all the racing up to you."
Rob: "What is this? Striking a deal? That's complete bollocks. I thought you are to race Takanori."
Kazunori: "That's a different story. My resolve versus his. But this big dilemma, we ought to have focus.
Your future, and as well as your brother's, are still at risk. You cannot rest just yet. But I assure you, I will hold my end of the bargain."
*flashback end*
Maria: "That runt! He could have just said it directly to us! Ugh... I even spoiled the opportunity of beating him up."
Rob: "What are we waiting for? Time to get our arses moving. Just like in monster movies...
...we have to kill it before it lays eggs."
End of Page 9
