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So...uh...as I've been reading this story from the prologue until chapter 10...

I just got to say that this is one hell of a project you build up. And to be honest, save for the long series known as Speed Legend made by Gunma34, this may be the only serious story I noticed that seem to have a lot of dedication so...I admire you for that...

I am curious though...are you doing all these yourself or with a team? I guess it's a team since I seem to notice a handful of people here share similar signatures or something...but anyway...let's get to the part where it got my attention so far...

Now then...your characters.

Saburo - The unusual protagonist you'd see in many heroic stories or whatever that won't bend to those hero types where he's enthusiastic and all and has a lot of support from the heroine. Good character he is...but it may be more interesting if you'd give him some flaws, no? I know he's still the hero, but try not to make him too invincible. No one likes a boring invincible hero after all. Still, I like his personality and development potential and I've only been to 10 chapters so...I may be too quick to judge on this. But as mentioned, I want to see how his story will connect to the main plot.

Sakuya - The tomboy heroine that has intensity of a warrior princess type. Tsundere maybe? Or...honest tsundere? (Wait, this trope doesn't sound right...but w/e) And again, I really like your choice of character creation on her. But what got me interested in her is not really her talents, but rather her history with Saburo and how do they know each other? I'll be happy if there's some backstory behind that, like a flashback or something. But eitherway, she kinda reminds me of Kazama Asuka from Tekken. LOL

Vanessa - Now this one's another interesting character. She's the cheery happy-go-lucky type that seem to keep things lively from all the seriousness in this story. And nice choice of using non-JDM. Not a lot of touge storywriters use cars like that, I can tell you.

Mr. Onizuke - This man interest me a lot actually. What's his connection with Saburo? He seem to be more than just an ordinary boss of a shop at Happogahara. Did you have a story for him? Or should I be expecting more in future as I read on?

Schrodinger - Hmm...who is this person? That's all I got from him at the moment.

Mayumi - Is it me or did I sense some....Sena Kashiwaki in her? She really is quite an amusing hot lady. Can't wait to see more of her in future. Her sense of humor plus her big sister attitude really gave a cute friendship with Vanessa together with Ayase.

Ayase - The serious girl of the series I suppose. She has this...really interesting background potential that I want to know more...for some reason. For now she might be the character I need to keep a close eye on. I dunno why but she just have that air somehow. xD

Aoi Kamiyama - She seems to remind of someone I know in my past...but that's all LOL. Since her personality is quite similar. Quiet, calm and peaceful etc etc. But really, that's another interesting character I'd like to see some development.

Musoku Shiranui - Wow....she must be inspired by Ryosuke, yes? Technical, calculating...and always seem to know what she's doing...but with a mentor...now that got me interested in Mr. Sternson too...

Finally...Kagerou Kouka....could she be the main antagonist of this story? D: All those hype on the BBS near Kanagawa seem to be really angry at her... wow...

Anyway...I know this may be too long a feedback but I wanna give my brief reception on what I thought so far from the 10 chapters.

And I just gotta say you REALLY have some serious dedication there, friend. And I salute to those that helped you too, since for something this large a scale and with so much planning I am sure you've a lot of friends helping you.

But that's what great teamwork is about and I really admire that. I will keep a very close eye to this story from now on, since after reading 10 chapters...I can tell this is one of the few stories that I know I will keep up-to-date constantly. (I normally drop a story after 10 chapters depending on whether the writer is serious or not in continuing it or at least keeping me entertained with stuffs)

So...I will be writing more later on...keep at it, Rin and friends.

I'll answer for Rin because…I'm here and he's not!

Yes it's a team thing, our sigs mark our bro+sis-hood (I remember and love you, Ruby, even if Rin loves you more. ). Chapter 10's just the start, I'd say. Carry on reading, what you've listed there is…just the start of quite a stupidly massive cast, as well as the biggest headache in terms of planning ever.

Also, since we're posting anyways…next chapter's probs gonna be out by this week, depending on how much we want to enjoy Easter/Summer/Sick-leave/whatever it may be.

oooh...A LOVE TRIANGLE!!!!

FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT!!!!!

Thanks for the feedback, pal. I really appreciate it.

As for those characters that piqued your interest, there's more to them than you know, so...

All I can say is keep reading.

And I am glad you chose to continue after 10 chapters and believed this story is worth your time.

I really hope you'll continue enjoy this story as we have a lot of plans still in future. xD

Yo, it's that time again.

Code 18 - Crumbling Grounds

Sat in an airport lounge, a girl twirled her pen. She looked down at an incomplete music score, fuming over her choice of accompaniment. She reached for her cup of coffee, got up, and moved towards the windows, watching the horizon dye itself orange.

Closing her eyes, she casually hummed a tune, her mind rapidly piecing together various solutions to her problem. None of them were satisfactory…apart from one. Furiously scribbling the notes down, she smiled, clearly pleased with what she's composed.

Her phone rang.

"Hello?" She picked up the phone, her calm voice veiling her displeasure.

"Hello...am I speaking to Miss Mana Kazui?" A similarly calm voice replied.

"Yes...and who might you be?" Responding half-heartedly, Mana scrolled through another thread on BBS with disinterested eyes.

"Who I am is of no importance, but all you need to know is that we are the Defense Line of Japan. And we have received news that you are returning soon, right?"

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"...Ah. You lot again." Mana rested deeper into her chair, feeling the heat of the sun spread across her irritated face. "I thought I have made myself clear that I will not be part of your revolution? Or am I missing something here?"

"You are missing everything, Miss Kazui. You have no clue as to how much we need your skill to guide our new aces. Imagine how much we both can achieve by combining our experience to teach new drivers to defend this country's racing supremacy."

"That’s what separates me from you lot...a fact that I'm quite proud of." Taking another sip of coffee, she smiled at the thought.

"I dislike the idea of oppressing ideals onto those without powers just because you can...if you're after someone who'd take pride in such oppression, you’re barking at the wrong tree, I am afraid."

"Listen, don’t hang up just yet. We’ll pay you for the trouble, alright? If you’re good at something, never do it for free, right?

"You’re mistaking me for someone who sees money as everything. That’s what mercenaries are. I've found a stable job, you already know that. I'll have you know I'm also very content with it." Completely unmoved, Mana's eyes flickered slightly as more ideas filled her mind.

…This guy is…yeah. Harada from Kanagawa…so he's moved up to being their secretary. Hmm…Maybe I should try using single line notes instead, for that lovely baroque feel.

"A career in music won’t take you far, Miss Kazui...unless you’re Maksim or Lindsey Stirling."

…Same old Harada. Give him a task to do, and he'll try to finish it even if he makes an enemy of the world. Well…I'm not going to move this time. Ah, I suppose broken chords do work better, clean yet elegant.

"The same could be said for racing, though that's not the point." With her mind completely focused on her music, she dismissed his protests with a sigh. "You don’t know when to give up, do you?"

"Hah…Please reconsider, we’ll triple the price if that’s what it takes. The Defense Line foundation is slowly being chipped off even as we speak. Don't you feel it's a shame, having seen it work before?"

"Save your cash for something more productive. I have no desire to return to that world anymore. And you can forget about seeing me ever appearing on stage again. This conversation is over, goodbye and good day, Mr. Harada."

"Wait, don’t-"

She cut the line and placed her earpiece on the table.

What does that make it? At least the fifth time? How long has it been going on for...longer than I can be bothered to remember, probably. Maybe this time, we may be freed from this vicious cycle…

Kicking back, she reached for her laptop, and before shutting it down, highlighted a name.

Saburo Misaka.


-----------------------------

Tokyo, 4:20PM. Inside a garage, Shion slid out from under her SA22C RX7, her hands smeared with a film of oil. Her phone, which she had just put down moments ago, began to ring again.

"Urgh…Seriously?" She grumbled and wiped her hands, struggling to get off the oily floor. Sliding her finger across the phone's screen, she was greeted by a flood of texts. All titled "Re: The job".

You're joking, right? What part of "I will do it" do they not get? No matter how much they spam, things won't just magically get done, dammit.

"Yukari."

"Hello, Shion. How are you doin’?"

"It's hell, just the enjoyable kind. This is supposed to be my day off, dammit, I'm more busy now than when I was working part time as dad's secretary."

"Aww, poor Shion~"

"Shut up, who's fault do you think it is for giving me all this hell?!"

"Sorry, sorry, just bear with it a little more. Once you're done putting everything together, we can mess around."

"Ya know, we really need to have some priorities. My phone's been vibrating non-stop these two days, everyone's been calling for just about every reason I can think of."

"Just be a good girl and put up with it for a bit more." Yukari's reply was barely audible, mixed in with the smooth sound of a rotary engine and Tokyo's noisy rush hour traffic in the background. "It's not that bad as long as you don't sit on your phone, I promise. We're nearly there anyway."

"Mhmm…well, entertain me for a bit as payment. You know what's going on up in the mountains?"

"I do keep track every now and then…why?"

"Is the name Saburo Misaka familiar then?"

"Uh…nope." Yukari paused, the sound of stretching and groaning filled the silence. "Who's he again?"

"The guy that started the latest revolt. Drives the black 180SX. Lost to Shin Imai, apparently."

"Well, can't win them all." With another yawn, Yukari replied dismissively. "Anyway~, I'm more interested in the bigger picture."

"What do you mean? And tell me, when did you sleep last night? You sound awful right now."

"Uh…2 in the morning. You know what I've been up to lately, so let's leave it at that. Back on topic, here's some homework for you-"

"No damn you!" Shion's irritated voice roared through the phone's speakers. "I've got more than enough already!"

"Ahahaha, don't worry, don't worry~. This is just light reading, you won't even need to touch a wrench. Uh…gimme a sec."

Laughing cheerfully, Yukari reassured her friend while pulling up by the side of the road. She got out, softly closing the door and strutted down the street. Her Eunos Cosmo gleamed in under the warm Akihabara sunlight. Its vivid purple, a similar shade to her hair, stood out from the sea of black and grey, drawing a small crowd to this stunning combination.

"Ah…really, I'm flattered, but I wish those guys wouldn't stare so intently…"

"Where the hell are you? In a bar at this time of day?"

"No, Akihabara, why?" Hearing Shion's sigh, Yukari decided to move on. "Anyway, read up on the defense line's background, and find out about Suzume Asai. Yes, the #3. Check BBS tomorrow and thank me then. For now, happy reading~!"

Quickly cutting the line, Yukari slipped the phone away and strolled through the ever busy streets of Akihabara, still drawing a crowd to her.

Hmmhmm…where are you-Ah~

Catching sight of a blue Nissan Onevia at the side of the road, she smiled. The driver, dressed in a loose, black suit, took off his shades and walked into a narrow alleyway. On his way, he took one final gulp from his beer and tossed it aside.

Peering into the darkness, she then happily followed him into the alley.

-----------------------------

He had run out of alleyway.

The silent gap between two buildings had come to an end. In front of him was nothing but a solid brick wall. With nowhere to turn to, he decided confrontation was, after all, the best option.

"So, what do you want?"

Turning to face Yukari, the man clicked his tongue and asked. His refined voice carried a hint of irritation.

"Oh…you know full well what I want~"

Casually strutting towards a young man, she smiled sweetly. Given the abandoned alleyway in the background, one didn't need to think too hard to misread this situation.

However, the man was unmoved.

"f**k off."

"Buuu, don't be so mean…It's just what I do, you know." Yukari sighed and leaned on the dusty wall, still nonchalantly smiling. "How does it feel, to be the center of attention in Tokyo?"

"…Surprisingly, it's pretty f**king boring."

"I did say nothing good would come from it, but you chose not to listen to me. Hmph."

"Enough, what do you want?" Brushing his mop-like hair aside, he responded disinterestedly. "It's funny how I supposedly beat you, yet you're the one here to gloat."

"Strictly business…Takuro's so boring~"

"Get to the point!"

"What do you plan to do now? Oh great #1-sama, please tell this lowly, ignorant girl your intentions from here on?"

"I've taken the top spot, that's all there is to it." He leaned on the wall and continued to speak with a disgruntled voice. "What else you want, little shit? Mind leaving me alone now?"

Yukari grimaced at Takuro's reply, before snuggling up to his arm.

"So you're saying you did all that on a whim~? That's so brave, if I didn't know better, I'd say you were doing that to show off to someone…Well, putting that aside…"

She brushed her violet hair aside and whispered…

"Suzume's not going back, you didn't need to do all that to keep her here."

"Ah? What the f**k are you going on about? You think I did all that for her?"

"Isn't that the case? You two always have the most twisted ways of expressing your love, everyone knows that much. Takuro Hishida and Suzume Asai's explosive love/hate relationship is the talk of the town after all."

"Want me to break that pretty face, cheeky b*tch?"

"…I'll get to the point then, I don't want my pretty face to be marked."

Stepping back, Yukari's face became stern for a brief moment, before softening to her usual expression.

"What would you do now? Carry on with the original plan we all agreed to? Or just sit here, indulge in your invisible powers and laze around, flirting with that nuclear bomb? You're #1 now, what you say does matter, so let's hear it."

"What original plan? Who gives a damn, I'm calling the shots now."

"…Is that so."

Yukari's starry eyes lost their glitter, her voice became cold.

"She still wants it, you know. Her revenge. Them calling her back was as big a disgrace for her as it was for them, I'd imagine. Just thought you might want to know that, before you do anything too radical."

"The hell I care about her?" Takuro turned away, walking towards the main street. His deep blue Onevia idled in its parking space, still scarred and battered from its earlier races.

"You know the answer to that question…"

"That's enough!"

Slamming his fist against the crumbling brick wall, Takuro roared. He turned around, locking his piercing glare with Yukari's carefree eyes.

"f**k you. f**k you and f**k whatever you've planned. I run the show now, we clear?"

Without waiting for a reply, he walked off, letting his fist bleed.

"If I'm going to do anything about that corny…Defense Line, it'll only happen once they step on my territory. Otherwise, dead or alive, f**k it either way."

Yukari silently watched as Takuro disappeared into the white void.

---

"Well then…let's begin."

Inside the Nissan Elgrand, Yamada turned to face 5 men.

"I suppose my first words should be…Basara Kuroda, Chikao Hamasaki, Sanaetsu Sazama, Gennai Goda, Hiro Shishigami…please accept my most sincere apologies."

He unashamedly took a bow before them.

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"I could not prevent this from happening, nor did I foresee it reaching this point. However…" He changed the slide on the Powerpoint presentation, showing a map of Japan's Kanto region. "…This, is the situation a few days ago. We should all be very familiar with what's happening by now."

"In Tochigi, Irohazaka has been met with a real threat in the form of these four people, in no particular order."

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"Saitama's situation is…similarly grim. Ayase Tsurugi and Vanessa Andersson have already beaten most of our racers, leaving only Yamato Taika to fend them off."

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"…Seems manageable? Don't be too quick to answer. Kanagawa's routine driver induction night was compromised by…her."

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"…Her history with us…I feel we can skip over. Following that, Shishigami's failed attempt at recruiting the…girl, was it…who was also present on the day, means that control over Kanagawa remains in question."

"Hey now…I tried to be civil but that girl just wouldn't listen to me." Hiro's calm voice, tinted with slight disappointment, interrupted Yamada. "It's truly a shame, I'd have thought we'd get along quite well…"

"Hiro's interested in a girl?!" Basara jumped at the thought, his sleepy eyes suddenly flaring open. "Yamada, forget the presentation for a moment, did you put anything in the water? I think we need this in the update, 'Hiro Shishigami has finally found his sexual direction'! I'm hoping the devils are used to the cold."

"Well, at least now we don't have to feel insecure when we're in a tight space with him." Sanaetsu shuffled towards Hiro, his teasing voice filled with exaggerated relief. "It's creepy, you know, when you catch Hiro staring at you for no apparent reason. Those all-seeing eyes, man, like he's licking you all over. Even after I get back to Akagi, I can feel his intense glaring at the back of my head."

"Say, this girl, was she a looker? Did you at least get her name, her number, her three sizes? How much for a nigh-GUHH!"

Hiro's fist reached for the man to his left, and collided with his stomach before he could finish.

"…Not every girl out there is interested in getting boned for cash, Gennai, now shut the hell up before I help you shut up."

"…Serious as always, huh. At least learn to hold back, dammit." Rubbing his stomach, Gennai groaned exaggeratedly, feeling his dinner revolt in his stomach.

"Enough, guys. I may sit you lot down like grade-schoolers, but that doesn't mean you can all degenerate and just act like them. Now unless you all want detention and a letter home to the parents, shhh and let Yamada-sensei talk."

"Ahem…Compounding problems for us there, are the increasing number of challengers we're getting. Most recently, these guys. They've been showing up…almost all over Kanagawa as a unit. Internally, we refer to them as 'Yellow'. Understandable…unless you're colour blind or blind altogether."

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"Not a particularly bad track record, but they're persistent. For whatever reason it may be, they keep coming back…and each time they do, they get faster. It's pace that cannot be explained by skill alone."

"…That is to say…they're getting financial backing?"

"Most probably. That's the only way I can see a shoddy Verossa keeping such a clean streak."

"Still…we sure are popular, aren't we. Even people with big money want us out of the picture, it seems. Might be time to consider retiring, or we'd end up with our heads on a stake somewhere."

"Oi, you lot are still young, hell of a lot younger than me. You don't get to retire until you've felt half the hell I've been through. Speaking of hell…" With a groan, Yamada brought the discussion back on topic.

"…Ibaraki."

Navigating back to the map, he highlighted the small region with his laser pointer.

"News came in, just yesterday. It's confirmed. The second strongest line has fallen, and with it, we lost some of our strongest drivers."

"Lost? You mean…?"

"…Yes. They…no longer belong to the line, nor can they ever belong to it again."

A heavy silence fell on the 6 men.

"Who's responsible?" Clenching his fist, Hiro asked.

"Him."

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"…That figure…is from Ibaraki alone. This old fart really, really doesn't like us."

Another silence fell on the room as they digested the severity of the situation.

"Now, that's that for the situation report…we've finally gotten to the end of the prologue. Let's get into the meat of things. This is why I've gathered you, the aces of Kanagawa, Akagi and Akina here tonight."

Yamada held his breath.

…They won't take this well…but I must say this.

"'Effective immediately, Tochigi and Saitama's defense line will shut down.'"

-----------------------------

Crack.

"'Saitama's defense line will be shut down.'"

The words still rang in Yamato's ears.

He didn't bother picking up his phone. He didn't need to hear any more.

"Oi oi, wake up!" Ayase stood by his side and waved her hand in front of him, trying to snap him out of his trance. "If only you fell into a daze looking at me... I mean, at least I can feel proud of charming you to that extent...I just feel unwanted like this, y'know?"

"Sorry. Ayase…it seems I've wasted your time."

"Haaah? What are you talking about, that was a pretty good run! I have no idea how your car disintegrated as it did, but don't get so down about it-"

"Ah, no. It's not that. For the chance to race with you under the title of the fastest in Saitama…losing to the Chaser was well worth it. For my last race, as #1 of Saitama, to be against my goddess…it was worth it."

Yamato's deflated voice robotically spoke those words.

"The Saitama defense line is no more."

"Eh?"

"Word from the higher-ups. They pulled the plug. We're not needed anymore."

-----

"'What do you mean, they've closed it down?', 'Why have they done that when we should clearly be strengthening them?!', and questions of those sorts are going through your mind now, I'm certain."

Yamada broke the chilling silence.

"Our losses are at an all time high at this point. Tochigi's half dead, Saitama's almost completely wiped out and Ibaraki IS dead. The higher ups simply thought to cut their losses and focus on beefing up the lines that have yet to be breeched."

"So what do they have in mind? I doubt it'd be something as simple as 'here's some money, go beef up your cars and whip their asses'." Sanaetsu sneered sarcastically.

"You know, despite what we say, we're not some massive, well funded organisation right?" Yamada sighed. "Even the higher ups aren't super rich elites of Japan by any means, so don't expecting something of that scale."

"Hah. Have you seen their cars? Even the lowest ranking of the three has probably put more money into his car's suspension than I've put towards my car altogether. I've no idea what they do for a living, but damn I'm jealous."

"I can put them on the line if you want. Ask them in person." Responding with a teasing voice, Yamada quickly brought the conversation back on topic, bringing up a new slide on screen.

"Regardless, this is what they've come up with."

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"They've requested the help of the following drivers. We've yet to hear a response, but they're elite drivers, even when compared to the Kanagawa's #1. Should they accept our request, we'll have a much better chance holding onto Gunma."

"…Suzume Asai…" Basara muttered under his breath. "Are you sure about her? To have a banned driver return to protect our sorry ass, are we really in such a tight spot?"

"More to the point, will two drivers be enough? Or were these two the only ones who didn't shuffle away quietly when you asked them to help?"

"Oh! Chikao Hamasaki speaks! This is rare!"

Basara jumped back, staring at the silent Chikao with amazement glinting in his eyes. Ignoring him, Chikao adjusted his glasses and carried on in a calm voice.

"So they've called a couple of people who we've not heard from since…is that it? They got rid of two lines for two people who might not support us?"

"…It seems that's the case here. The Line's lost its way, and we're gonna get even more hell because of it. No doubt more people will turn against us."

"…Well. Some drivers are offered the chance to transfer to other lines…I doubt anyone will though. Why fight on the wrong side of a war when you've been freed from the burden…"

"Waoooww…very deep words there, when are you gonna write a book? Call it 'Yamada's insights in racing warfare', I'm sure it'll sell-ow ow ow ow, stop it, Sensei's hitting me!"

"Then don't be obnoxious. In any case…read into this what you will. Take it as the collapse of their rule, or take it as the line's chance to regroup."

Yamada opened the Elgrand's door and stepped out, taking a deep breath of fresh air.

"Meeting over, you'll be relieved to hear. Now, who wants a beer?"

----

With a honest smile on his face, Shin Imai watched the black 180SX drive off into the night. On his face was, for the first time in a truly long time, a relieved smiled.

His phone rang.

Shin's relief, in a matter of seconds, was shattered.

The precious seconds of calm were all too good to be sustainable.

"…W-W-What?"

"…Yes. Unfortunately, we no longer require your services. You're no longer a part of the defense line, effective immediately. This is where we will go our separate ways."

The line was cut.

Nothing more was said.

"Ha. Haha."

Shin's expression was unreadable.

That's it?

There was rage. Sadness. Disgust.

After all that, that's it?

Lingering remains of relief twisted his face into a bitter, empty grin.

No explanation, no chance of redemption, no nothing? It's…over?

"DON'T f**k WITH ME!"

Throwing his fist at the R33, he screamed wildly.

"ARRRGGHHHH!!!!"

Shin punched the roof, kicked at the door and pounded the glass.

"YOU THINK. YOU CAN. JUST. DO WHATEVER YOU WANT?! TOYING WITH ME, LIKE THIS?!"

His bandaged fist bled. His vision was dyed scarlet.

Restraint? Who needs that? Teamwork? Who the hell needs that? Defense line? Pah. I'll show you. I'll show you all.

"I'LL SHOW YOU, I'LL SHOW YOU ALL, YOU NEVER. EVER. MESS WITH ME!"

"…That's the spirit."

A calm voice approached Shin. A deep, confident voice.

He turned around.

White hoodie. Mustard yellow hair, blue jeans. Face of a thirty year old. Sharp, distinct features. This man sat on a similar R33 to his, finished in a white so pure it hurt his eyes.

"The f**k do you want?"

"I can't exactly sit here and watch a fellow R driver fall into dispa-"

"Go f**k yourself." Shin's voice was cold. The rage had yet to settle, but the foul taste of reality definitely had.

"How about joining my team..."

"I said, go f**k yourse-"

"...to take down the bastards that just abandoned you not moments ago?"

Shin instantly stopped. His eyes narrowed as he slowly turned around.

"All ears. Go on."

"Simply put…"

Another voice reached Shin's ears. A girl's voice. Emerging from the shadows, a blonde girl stepped out. She walked with a slight limp, but her glare burned with a violent passion.

"…We've all been abandoned, turned away by people we trusted. This group simply exists to rectify that."

"Ah… Didn't I say stay in the car? You just got out of hospital, don't need to walk about so much."

"Leave me be, you can't shut me away in the passenger seat forever."

"Hey!" Bringing the focus back to him, Shin shouted at the two chatting members. "Your names?"

"Tetsuo Hayashida, pleased to meet you. Standing next to me…I'd be surprised if you didn't know her. Her antics did manage to make the news, if I recall correctly."

"Shut up." She barked at Tetsuo sharply. "Anyway…I'm Adachi. Let's get along from now on."


----

"So…where are you going to go now?" Ayase cocked her head to the side, her large eyes looking innocently at him.

BFFFTTTTTT!!! I know rejection of this level is depressing, but goddammit who can be bothered to be sad when faced with SUCH A CUTE GIRL?! T-This is your chance, Yamato! No time to worry about dignity or pride, win some lose some, winning her here will be the greatest victory in your shitty life!

"Me?" Alluringly brushing his hair aside, Yamato's trademark smile beamed at Ayase. "I'll go wherever you go. I've found my guardian angel."

He turned away, his hair fluttering in the wind, and walked towards the smoky remains of the Mark II.

Guardian…Angel? M-Me?! R-Really, this guy…wait. Why am I happy to begin with!

Ayase's face lit up. She shook her head violently, trying everything she could to make the red subside.

"Oh right-"

"W-W-WHAT IS IT?! A-A-AND I'M NOT BLUSHING OK? IT'S JUST REALLY HOT, OK, IT'S JUST HOTT!!!"

Frantically waving her arms at Yamato, she shyly hid her face away.

Ahhhhh… As expected, she's just too cute. Well, there's a more serious matter so I can daydream later.

"Ayase. Calm down for a moment, I have a favour to ask of you. Only you can do this."

"…hmm?"

"Can I get a lift home?"

Yamato laughed, pointing towards the black pile of scrap metal behind him.

"Ah…I guess it can't be helped. If you say you're going to follow me, then you'll need something that at least looks the part and won't fall to pieces after a few corners."

"Uh…what do you mean?"

"…Your Ayase-sama is going to fix up your car after giving you a lift home, okay? I know this is a tsundere line, but really, be grateful." Ayase sighed.

…It's too damn late for me to deal with all this shit. I need sleep or Mayumi will give me hell again about my skin or something…bleh.

"Get in, I'll sort out it later. Don't try anything funny though, or else…"

Ayase didn't finish. She laughed coldly, her karambit's perfectly polished blade flashed in front of Yamato's eyes again.

"A-A-Alright, alright, I'm getting in, no need to bring out the blade, I lost enough for a night."

Fearfully scrambling into the Chaser's driver seat, Yamato hurriedly closed the door. He leaned back into the surprisingly soft bucket seat and breathed out, massaging his temples.

Turning away from her car, Ayase quickly dialled a number on her phone as she admired the crescent moon.

"Oi, old man, I know I'm late, but I'll be back soon, so just listen. My…uh…friend trashed his car, mind fixing it up for him? You'll love it, I promise. I'll have it delivered to the shop, you just work your oyaji-magic on it. And no, no pink this time."

"…Really, I didn't even get a chance to talk yet and you're done?"

"I'm tired, so that's that, talk when I get back."

"Hell we'll talk when you get back, I'm sleeping. Though before you hang up…your friend…a boy?"

"…Why do you care? Yes he's a boy, are you going to charge him extra for it?"

"No, no, it's just rare, that's all. See ya tomorrow, sweetie."

"Argh…I've had it with the sweeties, I'll get diabetes. 'Night."

Ayase grumbled and pocketed her phone.

This is so tiring…I swear I should get paid for dealing with all this, I'd be rich in no time…

She opened the Chaser's door and let out an almighty yawn, her mind still whirling and complaining

Still…a friend huh. How long has it been since I've actually reached out and befriended a boy…certainly not since…since…

Her thoughts froze.

"Beat it, b*tch!"

"Haha…Why do you even try? Are you really that stupid? Or are you a masochist?"

"…A-Ah…"

Her voice was caught in her throat. She couldn't speak.

"Did you think you could escape so easily?"

A hoarse sneer echoed in her mind. With it came a chilling torrent of darkness that poured out from the depths of her memory.

She was completely swallowed up by it.

"Oi! What the hell are you doing, spacing out like that? I know it's late, but to sleep standing up, you're gonna betray the image of a perfect goddess I've held for you! I've been disappointed enough tonight, I'd rather not have another dream shattered!"

"Ah!"

Ayase snapped out of her flashback, the strength in her legs disappeared.

"You ok? Did I scare you that much, really? My goddess is such a scaredy cat, it's embarrassing."

"A-Aren't you a bit too demanding? I put up with your sexual harassment all night, can't I have just one moment of peace…argh, forget that…let's just get going already."

Her thoughts raced rampantly, curiosity taking over and forcing her to hunt down her past. She slowly helped herself to her feet, but her body refused to let her take the step into the car. She was shivering uncontrollably, and she struggled to find her voice.

"Y-Y-Yamato."

"Yeah?"

"Mind if you drive?"

"EEHHHH?!?!?!! WHAT IS THIS TURN OF EVENTS?! I lost two battles with heavy casualties, but whoohoo I won the war!"

"Ah, keep it down, my head is killing me…more to the point, help me get to the other side. My legs have given out."

"A-Ayase? Are you ok?"

"…Hmm? …U-Uh…yeah. I'm tired…that's all."

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Yeah…that's probably it. Just fatigue. No need to think too much about it…what's done is done.

The Chaser nervously accelerated off into the night.

- つづく -

This post has been edited by Rin on Apr 21 2014, 05:40 PM

Okay, I read up to this chapter you recently post and I just have to say...

This is got to be the largest character roster I ever seen developing on early chapters. Hell at some point it may even exceed Initial D all the way up to Project D Arc, which is impressive.

But to handle these much titanic a number of casts that seem to be just as important to each other in ever part of this project...surely a team of efficient communications are required to make it work...which you apparently have so far with your team (Not sure how many of you are there)

And for that I am most impressed to see one put so much effort in a racing story, not just storyline, character development, but artwork management as well. I know this is most likely a literature work with no desires of animation adaption whatsoever, but I think this seem to be better than trying to adapt into anime since a lot of work will have to be done to maintain such quality, which I am perfectly fine.

I have read too many racing stories (Fast and Furious, Over Rev, Kanojo no Carrera, Capeta, and so on) to know exactly when a writer is putting effort in something or not, and this one has my utmost attention due to your dedication in making every page entertaining while fleshing out the massive casts' charm in their own way INDIVIDUALLY, to give them a purpose to serve the story with something to give, which I find Initial D lack a lot (and not to mention the ridiculous plot armor applied to Takumi with that ungodly AE86) And so far I've seen minimal use of it, which I am once again -- ETERNALLY grateful.

Also...I find Ayase to be a very complex character now due to her sudden reveal of some dark past...could there be more to her story than just being a well-known model? Did she went through some harsh stuffs to get to where she is now? What sort of haunting memories await her and will it affect her newfound friends in some way?

Those are the questions I have for her. So, needless to say I have quite an expectation for this character in future.

And then...there's Mana. This character...is a complete mystery. A musician that has a past connection with many of the higher ups on the Defense Line System and as to what cause her to lost interest in racing? That I am curious to find out...and I find the way she got interest in Saburo just by highlighting the name at the computer a nice subtle touch that actually works. The way it's executed feels like I am watching anime, and that's what makes this project such an engaging one...especially considering racing genre can be...VERY limiting when it comes to literature portrayal.

Once again...amazing work in every aspect. Nothing short of uncompromising and beautiful, as well as stylish in every way. It has its rocky moments on plot handling, but once I go past that, I find myself addicted to this as a guilty pleasure like how I got hooked to Gainax anime that is ridiculously over the top like Gurrenn Laggann and Kill la Kill.

Keep it up bro.

My average verdict for this story so far is an 8.5/10.

Stay 1337 and rock on.

YAYYYY SOMEONE'S PAYING ATTENTION TO HOW IT'S BEING WRITTEN AND NOT JUST WHAT IS BEING WRITTEN~!!!!


And Ayase's Ayase. No goddess is complete without her own grueling battle. But then again, same can be said for a few characters…wait no that's probably spoiling…whoops.

Sorry for the late feedback, Rin! >_<

Anyway...wow...there's a lot of things happening here and I am surprised I didn't get to read the actual scenes of some races.

Then again I wouldn't wanna read too much of that since the details will most likely put me to sleep unless it's something intense like Kagerou's road rage

And Mana looks like a very VERY fascinating character...I wonder how is she going to serve the story in future, but given how the upper level of Defense Line seek her help before she even board her plane...she must be of some great significance in future...I can't wait to see where this will lead to.

And the reveal of the damage done on the stages...damn, I guess it's safe to use this meme.



XD

But anyway...I find Ayase's sudden trauma seemed...like a bit of a shock twist. I wonder...just what is it that she reminisced that made her so nervous...and I sure hope as hell she will be fine in future...

All in all, this is quite a ride of anticipation and other emotion train riding. I am stoked and can't wait to see what happens next. Keep it up, man!

This post has been edited by Akiko on Apr 26 2014, 08:59 AM

u broke ur gif m8

Oops. Fixed. xD

Long time no see...and happy birthday, Rin.

Must be surprising to see me return, eh? Anyway...

Read the whole thing up to this chapter and I must say your team is doing a tremendous job at keeping the quality in check as well as the presentation above the top line of competition, whether it's on graphical presentation or visual presentation. Even the writing is top notch and well remembered without it feeling like a cluster of texts or walls of multiple sentences all squeezed in one messy pile.

Now then...the only concern here I have is that you seem to have a lot of characters to work with...and I really want to see how you are able to handle all that in one go. I've seen a lot of racing stories with a mass of casts and they're not handled properly most of the time...so I hope yours won't suffer that same flaw. But regardless I am actually interested most in how Ayase is going to serve her development in this story since the trauma part is interesting and I want to see how it connects to the main characters and how things will play out.

Also...when will we get a chance to see Adachi back in action? Any clues?

P.S: Props on the graphics, Imma_N00B. The map is your doing, I believe?

P.S.S: I just noticed the signature...Onboy is writing now, right? Kudos to that too. Really shows how much this project can achieve with a team working as one.

Keep fighting, guys. Out of all the racing fic I see, this is definitely the one with most dedication placed.

This post has been edited by クロイ on May 1 2014, 06:03 AM

yep

Kudos, bro. Keep up the good work.

Power of specializing, right here.

Btw, if you're worried about the cast…well, not everyone introduced has to be in the spot light all the time, which makes it a slightly less hellish thing to control. Still hell, just not as hot as it can be.

It's that time again, people.

Code 19: Whereabouts of the Event

Akagi's roads were silent.

The winds of rebellion had yet to spread to Gunma. People still flocked to watch the local Aces practice, still learning from some of Akagi's fastest drivers.

However.

The atmosphere was complex.

There was hostility.

There was fear.

There was shock and confusion and disgust.

"…So this is how it ends for me, is it?"

A man in his mid twenties sighed.

He faced a crowd. A crowd of unfamiliar faces. None seemed particularly pleased.
"Genma…Sakamoto, was it? What's he doing here?"

"The womanizer of the defense line's here? Guys, hold on to your girlfriend in one hand, grab a shotgun with your other."

"I heard his line was abandoned because they did such a bad job defending it…hah."

Within the hushed whispers of the crowd, these resentful words were passed around.
"When all you lot are done playing Chinese Whispers, maybe I can start?" Genma's voice, uncharacteristically hoarse and fierce, broke up the chatter.

"Start what? Start begging? Start apologising for being so cocky and letting the line collapse?" A member of the crowd shouted. "Go away, you've blown your chance."

"Who let you speak, trash?" Without hesitation, Genma replied, his words smeared in malice. "I came here because I was requested to stay in the Line. The ignorant should learn their place and shut up. Now, if you don't mind, can anyone point me to Sanaetsu Sazama?"

In shock, the crowd murmured amongst itself. No one responded.

"Hmph…Pathetic."

-------------------

Casually whiling time away, Sanaetsu Sazama looked to the sky.
"So Tochigi's gone. We ought to get practicing seriously again, huh. What brings you here? Don't think I won't notice if you just stand in the shade."

With a sigh, Genma dusted the leaves off him and took a seat by his side.
"…Mind hearing me out?"

"What is this? The hot-headed Sakamoto of Irohazaka, who infamously lived his life ten girls at a time, is asking for a man to hear him out? Should I be honored or outraged?"

"…Shut up. Are you going to listen or not?"

"I'm all ears. The shoulder's not free though, use wisely."

"It…was all so sudden." Genma's voice grew shaky for the first time. "We were told that we were out came moments after news came that Shin had won. It was chaos. A funny one. One where everyone instantly reached for their phone and blasted the bad news sky high, all over Kanto. It was the most silent, most peaceful chaos I've ever seen."

"Is…that so…"

"Yeah…"

The young ace's eyes were devoid of emotion. He sat, gazing at nothing. Sanaetsu could hardly read his emotions.

"So…where are they now? Mutsu, Shin, Setsuna?"

"Shin vanished. We spammed his phone, but no one picked up. Mutsu sent me down there as fast as he could. He was screaming at me. "Get down there already, dammit!", he said. "You're the fastest of us here yet you're still in a daze from that?! The title of Irohazaka's #2 is crying!"." Genma laughed a hoarse laugh as he recounted the night's events. "It was unreasonable, of course. But it's Mutsu we're talking about here. That guy was always about teamwork. He…probably knew all of us a bit too well."

"What happened next? Did you go?"

"Yeah…I drove hard, man. Like I never did before. It's Shin, you know. Always tricky. He demanded too much of himself and trusted no one. Quick as he was, he was always quicker to resort to the knife when things didn't go his way."
He paused.

"But when I got to the bottom…no one was there. He had disappeared. Like he had never existed. Wiped away."

Sanaetsu listened silently.

"When I got back to the top, Mutsu was gone as well." Genma smiled wryly. "God knows how he did it, the road's a damn one way street. The guy must have found a way out of all the chaos, even with the crowd up there. Seconds later, I got a call, asking me to take his place, and move to Akagi's division."

"Well…" Taking it all in, the Akagi ace gripped his fist and sighed. "Welcome to Akagi. If you have problems fitting in here, come find me. It's Mutsu's protégé we're talking about, so I'll do anything to help."

"…Thanks. But-"

"But, Sanaetsu…"

A third voice entered the discussion.

"Camaraderie's well and good. Hell, it's even touching. But self-righteous pricks like him were going to be removed sooner or later. Why delay the inevitable?"
The Akagi ace turned to the source of the voice. Standing in front of an olive green FC RX-7 was a young driver. His face, barely old enough to be in his twenties, was twisted into a smirk. His short purple hair glimmered in the night. His bangs, long enough to cover one of his eyes, fluttered in the building gale. With apathetic eyes, he spoke Genma with a taunting face.

"Genma Sakamoto. For Akagi's purity…"

The driver of the FC lowered his voice.

"…I shall put you out of your misery."

-------------------

10:28 AM.

Sakuya glanced around the empty factory. Through the roof, gentle silvers of sunlight shone into the crumbling building. Under the soft summer sun, even somewhere like the remains of a factory could be made to seem picturesque, if depressingly so.

She didn't really care about any of that.

Currently, she was more concerned with the mess her friend had made of her filing system.

Note to self: Never, under any circumstances, listen to Hatori. Ever. Again. "I know what I'm doing", she says. "Just go play with Saburo's car, leave the tech to me", she says. WHY THEN, AM I FINDING SIMULATION DATA IN MY 'GAMES' FOLDER, DAMMIT!

Fuming and furiously gritting her teeth, Sakuya cursed and sulked in her mind.

Argh, forget this. I'll get her to fix this. it's HER mess. For now…I guess I'll read to pass the time.

She opened up a new page and logged in to BBS, and instantly felt her cooling blood boil again.

"Shit…Are you serious?"

The cause of her rage was simple. On the front page, was "Breaking News" in flashing text. Beneath it, a simple announcement.

"As of 28th of July, Saitama and Tochigi are no longer under Defense Line jurisdiction.

Further below was a summary of all the events within the month, followed by an official map released by the defense line.

"...All red. Things sure escalated quickly." She rested her head on the dusty pillar, and with a sigh, closed her eyes.

It'll be good to start a conversation with…but that's then. It's nice and serene here, and no one's arrived yet, may as well enjoy it…

Pulling her cap over her eyes, Sakuya slowly drifted off, the serene sound of the countryside and warm sunlight lulling her to sleep.

"…Oi, Sakuya…wake up."

A hand quickly whisked her cap off, letting the white light disturb her nap.

"…nmmm…wha…"

"Sorry for being late…so, you had something to say?"

"Ugh…gimme a moment…" Sakuya yawned as she got up. Her joints clicked and cracked, and her deep red hair had a thin film of chalk white powder on it.
After hurriedly tidying up her hair, she offered Saburo a seat next to her and grabbed the laptop.

Ouch, ouch ouch…never sleep on the floor, however nice the weather is…I won't be able to get under the car at this rate.

"Oh, you brought the laptop today?"

"Uh…yeah, there's something we need to go through, so I thought I'd bring it with me rather than have you come around to the shop again…" She replied as she groaned, her neck still hurt slightly. "Remind me when she arrives to get her to fix up the damn filing, it's all over the place."

"What's it today? More simulations?"

"Nah, plans and blueprints and all that stuff. You can't seriously hope to take on an establishment like this with a lightly tuned car, as you found out last time."

"…Right. That was the first loss against a defense line driver for us. So what's our next move?"

"Next move…believe it or not…is for you to come to my place in Akagi." She leaned towards Saburo, resting her arm around his shoulder. "Have a read of this."
Sliding the laptop into Saburo's hands, Sakuya stood up and waited for him to finish.

SPOILER

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"Is this for real? That’s it? They’re closed, for good? But we haven’t even reached the last of the Ace there."

"It's way too elaborate to be a troll, if that's what you're getting at. As for the aces…well, a line cut basically strips them of their title. As far as they're concerned, this area is finished. Every one of the aces have suffered at least one loss, so we're not going to miss anything if we just move on. Unless you're absolutely certain about a rematch, I'd take the easy route out."

"…Forget the rematch. There's something more important in hand."
Sakuya smiled without responding.

"Is Mutsu still in Irohazaka?"

"…hah?"

Her smile quickly became a confused frown.

"The S2000 driver. Remember our deal?"

"…Ah, right. But I don't know where he is, nor does BBS. So…you're still going to go back?"

"…You seem to want to move on quite badly…why?"

"Nothing…in particular." She responded quietly, fidgeting as she spoke.
"Spill it, Sakuya…I thought we were beyond hiding secrets from each other already."

An awkward, heavy silence fell on the couple.

"Finnneeeeee!" Sakuya pouted in irritation. She snatched the laptop back and quickly loaded up a new thread. "Read this. This is why I want to head back."

SPOILER

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"This…is on the other side of Kanto though, going back to Akagi is meaningless."

"I want to go back to Akagi to do some larger changes to the Supra, I won't take part in any races. It's a rare event, this. Once in a life time, even."

"I don't know, people pick fights and it escalates into giant shit storms almost all the time, right? What makes this one so different that you need to head out there and see for yourself?"

"Ahh, if you don't want to go, don't. I'll be heading out there for those few days so if you want something done to your car, wait till I come back."

"Tsk…let's just check out Akagi first." Saburo sighed, bringing the small argument to a close. "We're not alone, but who knows how long our luck will last…you never know, the people who turned on the line could turn on us the next second."

"Distrusting as ever, huh. Anyway, that's that for now, I guess. We just need to wait for that annoying one to show up and then we can start."

Saburo leaned onto the wall without replying. He glanced at his watch and closed his eyes, boredom written all over his face.

"Hey…You wanna listen to some music? I bought a pair of headphones, so I don't mind sharing…"

"…especially if it's you"…argh what am I thinking, I can't say that aloud!

"Sure..." He replied, looking at Sakuya's flushed face with a confused frown.

After fumbling around for her earphones, Sakuya hurriedly jammed them into the laptop and passed Saburo an earpiece. Trying not to think any more, she pressed play and took a deep breath.

The welcoming sound of DnB soothed Sakuya's agitated nerves, letting her heart settle down from the embarrassment.

…What's taking her, dammit. Though I guess her being late does mean I get more time alone with Saburo…

A heavy weight pushed against her shoulders.

Sound asleep, Saburo's head was rested on her arm. His strangely tidy brown hair tickled her neck, making her even more flushed. She fidgeted around, trying not to wake Saburo, but also trying to calm her reddening.

Ah, save me from this already, someone, I can't bear it! We are, after all, sitting…so close…to each other…Well…it's fine, I guess…we're friends after all…and…this much isn't too extreme…

"Hey, Sakuya-"

She jumped back. Finally snapping out of her daze, Sakuya came back to her senses to find Saburo's face only inches away from hers.

"W-W-W-What are y-y-you doing, t-t-too close dammit too close!!!"

"Argh, dammit, stop pushing me…No time for your antics, Hatori's here."

"Ah, sorry I'm late!" Waving at them, Hatori scratched her messy hair as she shyly apologised. She looked at Sakuya's beet red face with a cute smile.

"What took you so damn long, we were all here ages ago!"

"I slept in and ended up locked in rush hour traffic…though it seems like I'm intruding on an intimate moment between prince and his bride…I'm not, right, prin-cess~?"

"Don't try anything funny, it's always you who's late, every damn time. Have some sense of responsibility, dammit." Sakuya sighed, her face still tinted red. "Oh, and learn to file while you're at it. It's an absolute mess."

"Alright, alright. I am sorry, please forgive me, princess. I henceforth shall not commit a sin as grave as that…I guess?"

"Play around later, girls." Saburo rubbed his forehead and brought the girls beside him. "Now that we're all here, how about you bring Hatori up to speed?"

"Alright.....hey four-eyes…Oi, get off, what the hell are you doing-argh!"

Hatori quickly squeezed in between the couple and waited for Sakuya to start, completely ignoring her outraged expression.

"Anyway…" With a grunt, Sakuya moved the laptop to the center and carried on. "This is important, now…listen up."

-----------------------

Saitama on a Sunday afternoon, was surprisingly quiet. Even inside one of the city's largest and most popular shopping malls, the air was so still it was almost ghostly. Stood in this hauntingly quiet building Ayase waited impatiently outside a changing room.

"Oi…are you done yet? I'm getting tired of standing around…I wanna look in that shop over there." She turned around and shouted into a cubicle.
"Ah, give me a sec. I need this for work, so it takes priority over you." A girl's voice replied hurriedly. In the background, sounds of clothes rustling could be heard.

"…You need clothes for work? Won't it just get tossed aside or cut up or something?"

"Shush, I'll be out after I pay for this, so just wait for me outside the store."
Ayase left the store after paying for her clothes, grumbling to herself. She rubbed her tired eyes and let out a heavy sigh.

So much for asking for help. I'm still pretending it's all good right now…how do I even start with this?

The old memories she recalled still haunted her. Despite her best efforts, she barely made it through the previous night without dwelling too deeply into matters.

…How much sleep did I actually get…three hours? No…a little bit more…I think…still, at least I stopped thinking about it. Thinking about those days-

"You won't forget us…will you? Hahahaha…"

No.

She dropped her bag on the floor.

Stop.

Enough. Don't remember any more…!

Someone tapped her shoulder.

"Gyah~!"

"'Gyah'? Really, Ayase? How old are you again?"

"S-Shut up already and let's go! It's gonna get dark soon."

"Didn't you say you want to buy something?"

"Argh forget that, let's just go, if we don't get going now, we won't make it back before night falls."

"Whatever you say…" Mayumi replied and stretched upwards, shopping in hand. "Ahhhhhh, sure feels nice to finally be able to go home."

"Hmm…I guess so."

"Ah, right. That guy's also following you back home, right? Uh…whoever he was. Yamato, was it? Or Musashi or something…"

"…Oh don't mention him, please." Ayase rubbed her forehead and sighed. "He's…actually not bad a guy, but he's so bipolar, it's almost annoying."

"He's good at driving though, right? You said he was Defense Line #1 or something like that? At least he can keep you entertained back at home."

SPOILER

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"Well, he's fast here. How he does in Kanagawa is a different matter altogether. Ah well, he's dedicated though. He even plans on taking up a job at the shop to pay off the repair bill. Yet another reason for me to stay away from that place."

"I'm sure you'll be fine…'Ayase-sama'…Pfft!" Mayumi couldn't help but laugh at the cute nickname her friend gained overnight.

"Please…spare me already. As if I don't have enough to worry about right now…"

"What did you say? You trailed off there, I didn't quite catch the last bit." Mayumi frowned. It was rare enough that Ayase would back away from one of her jabs. Rarer still, she didn't respond in a fit of rage.

"…It's nothing. Anyway…you still into this racing thing?"

"Hmm…I guess. Why?"

"Well…things are getting quite fun right now, that's all. It'd be a shame if you decided to pull out." Ayase's voice recovered its cheer. However, it was still uncertain, her mind still fighting its battle.

"Apparently, quite a lot of new, fast guys have rocked up. Needless to say, they've made quite a debut."

"Hmmm…that so?"

"Yeah, the forums have gone insane. From drift trains to a demonic Z driver, everything's showing up all of a sudden. Not that it particularly bothers me, but if you're half hearted about it, I'd suggest you quit or something. Things are only going to get more dangerous from now on."

"Heh…Am I that kind of person in your eyes?"

"…Good point. You go 'all the way' when you work anyway, so what am I worried about."

"Oh you just had to, didn't you. If it makes you feel better though, I don't mind it."
"Hmm?"

"Come on, how long have I know you for. Are you really one to care for what internet people say about people you don't know?" Ayase's friend sighed and rested her hand on her shoulder. "So…let me guess. The only time I've seen you so on the edge is…ah."

"…Yeah?"

"…Don't tell me its…"

"Yeah…that."

Mayumi was silent. She didn't say anything. She couldn't. There was nothing she could say.

She simply moved in front of Ayase and softly embraced her.

"Don't think about it. Those days are over." She stroked the back of her head gently as she whispered those words. "You've done enough, there's no need to think about it anymore. Treat it as a bad dream, and move on."

Ayase didn't respond. She shrank down further into her embrace, her arms holding onto Mayumi even tighter.

"Ah…what's this. It's like I've got my own daughter or something. Anyway…with that in the open, lemme tell you."

"Hmm?"

"You look awful. Your eyes are red and you look like you've just come back from hell…who knows, you might very well have. Either way, let's go get a drink for now. I'll drive you home. You, get some sleep. No commercial model makes it big when her eye bags are larger than her chest."

"Ah shut up…" Ayase briefly returned to her usual self. "What about your car?"

"I'll drop the keys off at Vanessa's place and ask her to drive it over, I guess…I'll think of something." Mayumi scratched her head and groaned. "You should be more concerned with your family of perverts waiting for you the moment you enter the garage. They'll be hella disappointed you didn't bring them anything."

"That can be sorted out when we get back. Now move that fat butt of yours, let's go home already."

"Yes, yes…Whatever you say, missy."

Following Ayase's rejuvenated announcement, the two girls walked off into the distance. Their chatter may have been lively once more, but behind Mayumi's friendly smile…

…I'll have to keep a closer eye on you from now on…to fulfil my promise.

---------------------

The sun idled over Kanagawa, its gentle radiance spreading throughout the land. At the Saginomiya manor, the garden bustled with life everywhere. Everywhere, but a single, darkened room.

"…Mistress, it's…nearly noon, do you plan on getting up, or is this your time of the month?"

Inside the master's bedroom, Ruka tossed and turned, grumbling quietly as she woke up.

Tsk, trying to spite me into getting out of bed again…You can stay out there for another hour for that.

She yawned, rubbed her bleary eyes and, still half asleep, stumbled into her simulator rig.

"Oi! Ruka! Out here now, dammit! I'm getting old, I can't play the waiting game all day!"

Paying the butler no heed, she logged in to the computer before suddenly jumping up.

Ah…right. Hygiene. Though I only slept…an hour or two, I think? I wonder if that counts as a nap. If it did, I don't need to do this, right? It's…such…a…bother…

Ruka's musing slowly ground to a halt, and she helped herself onto the bed again. Despite the racket just outside her room, she quickly surrendered to her fatigue and slipped into a deep sleep.

Tired of waiting, the butler left with a grunt, tending to his other duties. The manor's hallway basked in the white heat of the summer sun. Koizumi's fouling mood lightened up considerably in the comforting warmth. He paused by one of the many windows, opened it, and took a deep breath of fresh air.

"…It's a nice day today…" He spoke to himself quietly to pass the time. "Not that it means anything to that girl. In fact, I'd imagine this sunlight to be absolute hell for her…really, I might consider using garlic to get her out of her room next time. Ahhh, I've raised a vampire, it seems."

Chuckling softly at the thought, he shut the window and continued his patrol around the manor. It was a tedious, and certainly pointless task. Very rarely did anyone visit the manor, leave alone the chances of any intruders. Even so, he left nothing to chance. He monitored the driveway to the manor on his phone, spotting a silver glint on the horizon.

A silver Mercedes silently crept up the drive.

"Well, well, isn't this rare."

Koizumi glanced at the monitor, frowning slightly at the sight of the car. Remotely opening the gates, he then slowly made his way to the garage.

-------------------

Inspecting the GT-R, a man in a suit stood by the Nissan, waiting for Koizumi to arrive.

"You made me wait."

"I'm not obliged to tend to you if mistress requires me." The butler replied coldly. "What brings you here?"

"Am I not allowed to be a caring brother and come see my shut-in sister every now and then?"

"'Caring brother', hah." Koizumi laughed at the thought. "So is this tough love you're giving her? That's quite a scary way of twisting things…though you're scary in so many regards and outright pathetic in others."

"…Is this how you normally talk to her?"

"That's none of your concern." He dismissed the question with a sigh. "What's it going to be today? Will I be speaking to master Tatsuya over some fine cuisine for lunch, or will we cut the bullshit and get to some business?"
"…Let's talk inside." Tatsuya wiped off the sweat from his forehead and began walking.

The two men in black entered the manor through the garage. Tatsuya rummaged through his carrier bag on his way down the hall, absentmindedly handing the butler stacks and stacks of paper.

"This…is your cut. Think of it as your salary. You've finally made it to the first paycheque, how does it feel?"

"Long overdue. I'll accept it gratefully…if only I was oblivious as to how it came about." Quietly folding the piece of paper into his suit pocket, he quickly flicked through all the other papers.

"Ah, that's…a load of lawyer bullshit that basically notifies you that it's not just you getting the benefits."

"Who's getting involved now…"

"Page 3, everyone involved is there."

Koizumi flipped the document back to the third page. A total of 25 companies were listed.

"So that's what you're doing now…" He grimaced. "I'll take 10% service charge for the car though."

"Ask for anymore and that's all you'd get."

The butler laughed dryly at the threat and turned towards the main hall. Tatsuya, however, carried on up the stairs, heading towards the master's bedroom.

…How long has it been, my dear, dear sister?

Opening the door, he slowly crept in. A nostalgic scent of roses filled his nose.

Not a lot had changed in the room from when he last saw her. It was still ridiculously large, and even with the addition of a grand piano and the simulation rig, it still felt strangely empty.

"Hm…still playing this game? Well…I suppose I'm responsible…" He laughed softly and sat down in front of the piano.

Lay sprawled on the bed, her hair half-covering her small smile, Ruka slept deeply.

Pretty as ever…and still a shut-in. You are too cute, really…

He couldn't help but smile fondly at his sister's sleeping face. Slowly feeling the keys of the piano, he began playing a quiet, elegant tune.

The still silence slowly faded away. In its place, a soft yet emotional melody filled the void.

"…Schubert's "Serenade"?"

"Ah, you just had to ruin the moment, didn't you?"

"I'm sorry, but it's such a fitting piece for your case, it's disgusting."

"I'm more surprised you know of it. You know…" Gently lifting his hands off the keys, Tatsuya's voice lost its cheer. "However long ago it was…she used to love it when I played this. Couldn't you have let me finish at least, before barging in?

"…I may be old, but I'm not dense."

Koizumi's voice suddenly broke the silence.

"Pervert brother walking into his sleeping sister's room when she's not had any sleep for some…30 hours I'd say. Yeah right you're gonna stop at feeling her piano. I can tell you right now what's going to happen. She won't consent to it either."

"Oh, so you even taught her about this kind of thing? You've done more than necessary, giving her social education as well."

"Like hell I'd teach her that. It's not that complicated, actually. She still hates you, that's all."

"Ah…that's a shame." Tatsuya stood up and moved to the bed. His hand reached out in the darkness. Grabbing a wine glass, he poured himself a glass from the open bottle by the bedside table. "Mind telling me what she did in the past 30 odd hours then?"

"If you couldn't tell from the awful smell in the garage, she was out racing. Girl seems to enjoy it…I can't say I like it much, she damages the car in all the odd places."

"As long as she has fun…I suppose. It won't be fun and games for long…What else?"

"Everything you wanted her to do, with the odd piano session and bath and other trivial stuff in between."

"Is that so. It's certainly more lively a life than before…"

He sat down by her bedside, gently stroking the dishevelled hair over her eyes.

"Hmm…it's been a while. Maybe a kiss isn't out of the question?"

His fingers lightly traced over her lips as he said that. He closed his eyes, clenched his fist and laughed.

"Don't worry, I won't. You can unclench that fist, I won't go a step further. I'm…not worthy of it. Doing it this way has no meaning. I'll play my role of big brother properly this time, and have her come to me herself."

"…Hah, properly you say. You can start by getting rid of me, these papers, and start treating her like your sister for once."

"Don't patronise me!" Holding back his silent rage, Tatsuya slammed his fist on the bed.

Silence fell on the room.

"As long as she remains pure and ignorant of it all, I'm fine with anything, even being the villain of her story."

He quietly got up and, with regret lingering in his eyes, walked out.

"And as for you quitting…you know what's the difference between you and all the other stakeholders?" Tatsuya asked without turning back.

Silence.

"Everyone else requested to be there. You were invited. Remember that."

The hallway fell silent as his words settled in. Letting Koizumi organise his thoughts, Tatsuya placed the hand that had touched Ruka's hair to his face, inhaled softly and smiled. His blood heated up, he tensed his grip. The desire to turn back, lock himself in her room was overwhelming.

…It's been too long, sister. It's just…too long. I've not heard from you for so long, just being in your room throws me off. If your lovely butler wasn't so persistent, I'd have waken you and told you everything…let you feel everything…what I owe you, the feelings that the brother you despise harbours for you…I'd have imposed that onto you in a heartbeat.

Really…this guy, Koizumi Asahina…for better or worse, he does his job far too well. I won't deny any of what he says. That's why…all the more, I have to see this to the end. At least, should it fail, I can be the very image of what you hate…

Without waiting for the butler to come up with a response, the young business man walked away. Just before he was out of earshot, he shouted back to Koizumi.

"This…everything here, and don't pretend you don't like all this, everything depends on you. Don't disappoint. I'll let myself out."

Yes…perhaps…such a relationship, in some way, can be another form of happiness.

SPOILER

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- つづく -

This post has been edited by Rin on May 25 2014, 06:09 AM

Simply amazing! Another wonderful chapter, Rin!

the development is on everywhere and it doesn't seem all disoriented at all, which is amazing since you have so many characters at hand. I feel like watching some anime here or something lol.

Also...I am starting to get some interest on Ayase now with her past being shown bit by bit...I wonder what sort of trauma did she have in the past...

And eww...Ruka has a siscon brother? I feel kinda sorry for her... :x But again, I am interested to see where this is going. Keep it up man!

Marvelous chapter, team AC. =)

The balance of focus in between the huge number of casts certainly is impressive and it's clearly no easy task to handle every one of them well.

Ayase's past being shown bit by bit certainly raise some question as to what life she as been through before, and certainly makes it more than meeting her in the eye.

Ruka's family sure is...a slight dysfunctional one if I do say so myself...

All in all, impressive as always. keep up the good work.

This actually made me wonder...what kind of past did Saburo and Sakuya has that led them to be this close?

Something tells me that he must've made quite an impact to her before to start out such a relationship. I am curious as to whether this will be told or not in a flashback or something. =)

Sorry for the slight delay.

Code 20 - Dilemma Days

Akagi's roads lit up with the wild sound of cheering. Without warning, a high stakes battle had already begun.

Charging down the pass, a lime green FC FX-7 flashed pass an unknowing gallery. Right behind it, a Nissan Fairlady that didn't belong. The Z32 of Genma Sakamoto.

"Cmon, at least try to be more aggressive! I've not had a chance to race properly, and this is the welcome back I get?! If this is your commitment to keeping Akagi pure, she's gonna wind up in the sewers reeaaalll quickly!"

Inside the Z, Genma's charismatic smile had twisted into an arrogant sneer.
Even though he was at a disadvantage, something had become glaringly obvious.
The RX7 was not getting away.

The difference in local knowledge was more than compensated by the savage power of the twin turbo V6.

Genma's knowledge of Akagi was superficial at best, but even so, it was all he needed.

Try as he might, Kenjiro couldn't shake the bright orange Z from his mirrors. Worst still, with each passing corner, the Mazda became harder and harder to manage.

"Dammit, what the hell's this?! To think that the third rate playboy had this much in him…!" Wildly fishtailing as he exits yet another tight corner, Kenjiro grimaced.

If you're this fast here…you alone would have been enough to fend off the attack in Tochigi! Why then, did you not do anything?! WHAT THE HELL WAS THE POINT OF THIS SKILL?!

Outraged, he pushed even harder. Paying no regard to the rapidly deteriorating tires, Kenjiro turned his attention to blocking Genma.

Distance didn't matter, desperate or not, as long as I don't make contact, it's still a clean victory!

Seeing the change in tactics, Genma sighed in disdain.

"Well then…if you're not going to move aside…allow me…!"

Diving deep into the approaching hairpin, the Z32 nudged the Mazda's side. There wasn't enough momentum to throw it off balance, but that was not important.
Kenjiro had been easily distracted. His focus had been taken off keeping the FC straight in front of Genma, and to compound issues, the rear tires had completely given in. The orange Z32 is now right next to it.

Snatching and grabbing at the wheel, he desperately tried to control the fishtailing Mazda when, suddenly…

"Cars approaching, cars approaching!"

Amidst the burst of static from his earpiece were those hurried words.
"Two inbound, FAST! Winning or otherwise, just get in lane now!"
"Ah?"

Before he could digest the news, a searing white light rose from over the horizon, steaming towards them at a dangerously high speed. In a flash, they had come close enough to see the fearless eyes of the Legacy's driver staring back at him.
Straight ahead, two determined racers locked in a heated duel. From behind, the daredevil playboy of the defense line. Neither side would flinch. Worse still, beyond the row of spectators was nothing but a sheer cliff.

"S-Shit!"

To be caught in this game of Chicken, what the hell is going on tonight?!
Fear and adrenaline running amok in his blood, Kenjiro swallowed his fear and slammed on the brakes, letting Genma slip by before steering away from the approaching cars.

"Tsk…really, is that enough to scare you new guys off?"
Genma breathed out in disappointment.

"Protect the purity of Akagi my ass…if your resolve can be shaken by something as small as this, then Akagi really will go to shit! Now, let me put you out of your misery."

---

"Phew…that was a close call."

Inside the Legacy, the driver wiped off a cold sweat.

"I know we racers can be daft, but that was extreme even so…"

He glanced back at the S15 chasing him down some five meters behind.
"You're quite something as well. To think you would have the balls to take advantage of running into traffic to close the gap…Hiratasuka Tomoyuki, it's my loss." He touched the brakes gently and smiled.

"Still, no point in telling him so early on…let's play some more first!"
The Legacy suddenly darted off, spreading the gap between Tomoyuki again. In response, the white S15 let loose a throaty roar and set off in pursuit.

"Ahh, I let my guard down. Now the gap's back to where it was moments ago…I'll never hear the end of this from that old fart, I bet." With regret lingering in his smile, he slammed his foot into the firewall and gave chase.

Dancing through the next set of gentle sweepers, the lightweight S15 slowly clawed back the distance, and exited the section sitting right behind the Subaru.

Tomoyuki's smiled a wide, cheery smile as he closed in once more.

"…So I can't get away after all, huh. Ahh, that's enough for tonight then, I guess."
With not a lot of tarmac left between the two cars and the finish line, the driver of the light blue Legacy sighed with mild disappointment on his face. Turning on the hazard lights, he slowly eased off the pace and pulled over. Frowning slightly, Tomoyuki followed suite.

"Hey, what's the big idea, giving up so easily?" Rolling up beside the Subaru, Tomoyuki asked teasingly.

"Eh, I lost my cool after that scare…really, it's not nice for your focus, being interrupted like that."

"So can I call this my win?"

"You wish!"

The two young drivers laughed freely, tossing casual insults and light abuse at each other.

"Being serious though…yes, that's your victory. Hiratasuka Tomoyuki…was it?"

"Yes? And you are…?"

"…Hmm…Koji's fine, so yeah, I'm Koji. Good game. I'll see you around."

With the brief formalities over, Koji gave Tomoyuki a carefree wave and closed the windows, before suddenly pausing.

"Oh right…one more thing. It's great to be ballsy…not so great when your car becomes illegal because of it. Check your mirrors. Now then, I'll be going."

Tomoyuki watched as the Legacy quietly cruised away from the side of the road. With the road now completely silent, he slowly got out and took a quick look around his car. The pristine white paint on his beloved Silvia had light scratches and flakes of paint scraped off its left door. Just above it, where the door mirror should have been, were torn remains of its plastic casing and frayed wires.

"…Ah shit. I'll never hear the end of it now…"

---

Idling at the bottom of the Akagi's now silent roads, Genma's Z32 sat in the center of attention.

His race was long since finished.

It was a complete victory.

The FC had given up by the third checkpoint due to its worn tires, and he was forced to wait for the RX-7 to limp down to the finish line.

"This doesn’t prove anything, Sakamoto! You reckless shit, you call yourself a defense line member? Does any member race in such a dangerous manner?! If you truly feel proud for this victory, then all you've done is prove me right! You really are the arrogant, self-centered prick they said you were! Even if I lost, Akagi has NO NEED for the likes of you!"

Lashing out in rage, Kenjiro slammed his fist on the Z32's bonnet, glaring at its driver with hostility dripping from his every pore.

"You done talking? If you are, mind getting the hell off my car? Sore losers can go sulk in that corner there." Brushing his hair aside, Genma exhaled and relaxed into the driver's seat. "Just relay this to Sanaetsu. I had no intentions of staying with the line…frankly, this whole thing reeks of the past. I just came to prove a point. That point being…Hate me if you will, don't you dare question my skill. Especially trash like you."

That was that.

The ace that had been the most prepared for battle ended his career without defeating a single rival, with the only victory on record being this, single race.

With those last, spite filled words, Genma Sakamoto's name was struck from the Akagi's ace line up.

-------------------

"…So, what is it you want from me, this late at night?"

"Nothing much…just the usual. Keep me entertained while I drive."

Cruising through the wide, lonely roads of Hakone was a Passionate Pink Toyota Chaser.

"Wasn't there a law or something about that?"

"Do I care?" Ayase clicked her tongue at the tiresome response. "Anyway…yeah, just talk to me so I can unwind a bit."

"…If you must. I choose the topic though…and answer honestly."

"What's this? Truth or dare? I'm fine with that, I guess." With a tired groan, Ayase laughed as she fought the Chaser out of the corner, sawing at the steering wheel.

"How much sleep have you lost over it? I won't say what it is, so just reply honestly."

Ayase sighed and, with one hand, massaged her forehead.

Her grip on the wheel tightened.

"Have you missed us?"

A chilling voice echoed in her ears.

In her mind, a desolate scene slowly reconstructed itself. Her foot lifted off the accelerator, a chilling silence rapidly spreading over her skin. Her eyes widened in shock.

It was a school ground, like every other one out there.

It…was nothing special. White exterior, exposed corridors, an average sized sports field. The usual, warm environment students take for granted nowadays.

Yet…

There was nothing remotely inviting about the image in her mind.

"b*tch."

She looked up.

"Why don't you just die?"

It…

"Idol? You? They must be blind!"

…was a crushing sight.

A small, white locker. Marked red and black with graffiti. The words were wildly sprayed onto the door, blood red paint scattered inside. Nothing within the column was left untouched.

"Ah…it's her again."

"It's a shame, isn't it. Even though she should have known better than to force herself on him…"

"Like father, like daughter, I guess. Both only good at going through the backdoor in life"

"She can get done in the backdoor for all I care, my locker's a mess now! No thanks for that…tsk…"

Words of scorn.

She…couldn't escape from them.

Everywhere she turned to, everyone she met.

They all looked at her with the same, degrading gaze.

"AYASE! ANSWER ME!"
--

A flash of white sped by.

"H-huh?"

Barely scraping the side of her Chaser, a black blur overtook Ayase.

"…W-what- Argh shit!"

Ayase wildly wrestled the steering wheel in desperation, sending the car into a fishtail. The Chaser's rear kicked out, its huge endplates dancing between the two guardrails to the sides of the road.

Coming back to her senses, Ayase reflexively yanked the handbrake and applied full opposite lock, bringing the out of control Toyota to a smokey halt. She looked up, just in time to catch sight of the black R34 vanish into the night.

"W-What are you trying to do?! I-I'm…driving right now…a-are you trying to get me killed?!"

"I should be asking you that! What the hell happened? You suddenly fell silent, then that scraping sound came!"

"I-It's your fault dammit! YES! IT'S BEEN ON MY MIND! I'VE NOT GOT A SINGLE NIGHT OF SLEEP BECAUSE OF IT! NOT ONCE! HAPPY?! You KNOW that was taboo, so DON'T TALK ABOUT IT!"

Ayase screamed.

Not out of anger or frustration.

She simply screamed, in desperation.

Because nothing else could have been done.

"…I don't know if I should tell you this then."

With a heavy sigh, Mayumi began after a pause, speaking in a calm, soothing voice.

"I've been doing some digging. This thing was pre-tty damn boring to flip through, but for your sake, I'd reconsider taking on everyone you meet around here."

"What's this about now?"

"He's there, you know. Somehow or other, some time ago before you showed up…he's been in this Defense Line."

Ayase was lost for words.

"I-I-Is that so…Well…who knows, he might have got the boot…or might have lost interest…like he did in me…sorry for bothering you, we'll talk tomorrow, see ya."

She ended the call.

"…Who am I kidding…"

Silently, she clenched her fist.

"ARGH!"

She threw her fist into the steering wheel.

In rage.

In pain.

In desperation.

…why…

Here, in the empty roads of Hakone, the night echoed not to the roars of engines…

…but to the quiet whimpering of a lonely girl.


-------------------

Tsuchisaka's roads were quiet.

Eerily so.

"…Another lonely night, is it?"

Stood by the side of the road, two men leaned on a navy blue R33 as they chatted away.

"We're not here to race, so this silence is the best thing we can hope for. Besides, it'd be bad for her if people found out."

"…I guess."

Silence took over again.

"Shin, I hope you don't mind…but…"

"Spill it, Hayashida. Wasn't that rule #1 of this group? If we have anything to say, say it straight, right?"

"Yes it is. Tetsuo is fine as well, by the way. If we're loose enough to have that rule in place, we're loose enough to go by first names. Anyway…"

Tetsuo glanced up at the empty night sky, and took a deep breath.

"As I was saying. I hope you don't mind, but that girl will take priority in the group's actions. It doesn't mean you'll race the fodder or anything degrading to your reputation, it just means you'll race it bit less."

"…Why's that?" Shin grumbled. "I'm annoyed, but not against it. So let's hear your reasons. It better not be 'I got swayed by her softer girly side'."

"Am I such an easy person to sway in your eyes? I won't deny that she's got some charm now though, but she's still some way off moving me to that extent."

"So what's the reason?"

"I want her to regain some confidence. Unlike you, she's been driven to the edge of her sanity once, it's very easy to fall for it again if we send her into another high-pressure situation. Hence we're starting gently with her."

"…That's why we're watching her practice, right?"

"Nope. This and that aren't really related. I just wanted to see how much of the Adachi that took Saitama by storm remained. And speaking of her…"

A muted howl echoed up the narrow road. From the distance, a white glare of light charged up towards them.

"…Looking good." Tetsuo glanced down at a stopwatch and muttered fondly.

"Looking very good. She's better than expected…She might be ready before the car is at this rate."

Shin peered over Tetsuo's shoulder and grunted.

"Not bad. She still has some way to go though. Get ready, I'll be the judge of her progress."

The two men's eyes met, and with a quiet nod, Shin casually sauntered out into the road and blocked her path.

"Ah?" Adachi frowned at the sight. Bringing the white R33 to a screeching halt, she lowered the windows and stuck her head out. "Oi, what's the big idea? Are you trying to live up to being a kamikaze ace? It's been a while since your last fit as well."

"Shut up. He's got something to say, that's all, so get out here."

Without waiting for her, Shin headed back to Tetsuo's side.

"Shin, manners man, what happened to them? Ladies first and all, you know."

"…She's classed as a lady now?" Shin laughed dryly.

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"Hey, that's enough. I have feelings as well, dig too hard and I might just lose my shit again." Adachi replied in a strangely defeated voice. "…And I'm sure you don't want that."

"That's…"

An awkward silence finished the sentence.

"Oh come on, are you all that scared?"

"…More like, I pity the cleaning ladies. How much glass did you break that time-ouch ouch ouch! Adachi-chan, don't be violent, I'm laid back but I'm leader of the group you know, ear pinching is off limits~!
Watching the pair bicker and pick on each other, Shin couldn't help but smile. He rubbed the bridge of his nose and, with a sigh, joined in the fun.

"…Are you two done playing? Or have you started going out without me knowing? I think that's very sweet of you, to sacrifice your happiness to help her find her way."

"Oh give it a rest, Shin. At least he's not a suicidal loner." Adachi stuck her tongue out at the former ace in response.

"Ok, enough's enough. Quick chat here before we go for one more run to wrap up the night, so sit tight and listen up, the both of you."

The two drivers took a seat on Shin's GT-R and looked at Tetsuo intently.

"…Ok, not that seriously. This isn't a classroom. At ease. Anyway…"

With a sigh, he leaned onto the wall and scratched his head.

"A quick chat about what we want to achieve. That's what tonight's topic is."

"Hah?"

His teammates looked at him, both frowning with surprise on their face.

"We have two ultimate goals here. To take back what we've lost, and to get back at the people who made us lose it. But that's…vague. Too distant. What I want to talk about is what we need to do to get there. What do we need to ensure things go our way."

He got up and looked to Adachi, and took a seat beside her.

"…You already know blind rage won't work, right?" Gently caressing her cheeks, his words teased her. Yet she didn't react. Her face didn't explode into rage, nor did she become flustered.

"…Yeah. I know."

With a gentle smile, she replied.

"That's what you're here for, right? I hate to be the third wheel here, but stop flirting with her already, and tell us what you've got planned."

Shin's voice, typically cold, broke up their quiet moment.

"Ok, ok. Really, pushy as ever. We're faced with…three pretty big problems right now. The first, our reputation. We have none. In fact, we're in the negatives. No one out there would want to race a team consisting of an unknown and two highly strung exiles…unless you're desperate for attention. There's no benefit to racing us, and whatever threats or such we put out there would just come off as empty words."

"The second problem…" Tetsuo raised two fingers up. "We might enjoy this bittersweet, licking-each-other's-wounds environment, but three people in a team is not enough. We'd wear ourselves out trying to keep up with things. And the third…"

"Yeah?"

"The third, and final problem…is the easiest to solve. It's this."

Patting Shin's GT-R in his brief pause, he highlighted the issue.

"…Our cars. Shin, your GT-R is also your part-time punching bag, and Adachi-chan hasn't even got her car yet. Dare I say it, my car is in the best condition out of all three of us. With the way this scene works, we're gonna be left behind before we even start."

Suddenly.

"…Forget that."

Tetsuo's eyes widened.

"The last problem, leave it to me. I'll pull some strings, see what I can arrange."

"You sure about that?"

"…Shin, when have I ever been wrong? And don't worry. This person…you'll definitely be familiar with."

A strange silence fell on the scene.

"…Anyway. I'll leave that for you all to consider. With that said…Let's go. One more run and we call it a night. I'll ride shotgun with Shin, you lead."

Quietly getting into their cars, the team of three pulled away from the side of the road, Adachi slipped pass and took off.

- つづく -

This post has been edited by Rin on Jun 13 2014, 06:59 AM

Another chapter nothing short of amazing, Rin! I like how this chapter builds up the plot without even the need to drag the main casts in it, aside from Ayase.

I personally can't help but feel a bit sorry for Genma for the shit treatment he has to go through, even though he's clearly not a decent guy at all. Even after the race, he felt like he had accomplished nothing, aside from making a statement that he no longer needs the Defense Line to know he's good in driving. He's grown out of his need of recognition. I just hope that wherever he goes from here on, he knows what he's doing.

And as for Tomo...I really wonder what else is there to be in store for him. He's such a sociable guy it's a surprise that he ain't the hero of Accel Code. xD

Ayase....again with that haunting yet disturbing past...what is it that keeps driving her into such a state? I really need to know now...and whoever is responsible for that...something tells me that it's going to be a really nasty arc when the focus shifts into Ayase's past finally...I just hope Mayumi is there to keep her sane...

And now...Adachi, she's back...and with a vengeance I am sure...even after an accident she recovered and managed to maintain her game-self on without losing herself. Shin joined up with her and both have something in common. This could be the start of a beautiful revenge of what they've lost...

Damn, this chapter really is about a huge build up of a storm that may hit the shores where Saburo and his friends are gathering...there's so much emotion stirring up it's surreal. xD

Keep it up, everyone in Accel Code Team. You guys are doing a phenomenal job coming this far...I salute you all for that.

Stay frosty. xD

And with that…

no, not "back to the studio".

It's a small thank you.

With twenty chapters out, we've reached the first of many milestones. On behalf of all the tryhards that work on this, me included, thank you to those who've supported/continued to support this project. Not a lot of people, but yeah, for what it's worth, you have our gratitude. It's had a rocky start, but from here on, things will only get…err…even more rocky, actually.

But at least you can all understand what we're trying to say now.

Time to get to the point. Rin will be taking a small break. That won't mean "no more chapters for an immesurably large time period of time" though.

Next chapter, Accel Code Chapter 20.5*. Look forward to it~![/highpitchedanimechickvoice

*No, it's not a 4koma or a text-based version of a 4koma, so worry not. Or curse away, if you really were hoping for such a thing.

Very nice chapter, despite the lack of the main characters like Sakuya and Saburo and so on...I am still surprised how you managed to handle all the characters in such balance in focus.

That's something I don't see often with anime these days, especially with such a big roster.

I really am curious as to what happened to Ayase before that it's degraded her into such a state...

On the other hand, Tomoyuki could be the next big thing after Saburo, and seeing as how the rival accept his loss so easily, you know he has a big positive influence to all, win or lose...and I like that.

Adachi is back huh...God knows what she and Shin is gonna do from this point forth, given how much grudge has eaten in them to have everything taken.

Overall, a very nice chapter.

P.S: I really want to see Sakuya or Hatori in action more often. They seem to be quite an asset in the racing stage aside from tuning and tweaking rides.

Will there be any arrangements made for that? XDD

I'll just say this about the "main character" thing. Simply put, until we get to the character focus arcs, everyone is a main character, and everyone is a support character. Be it Saburo or some guy on the side of the street, where relevant, I will to the best of my abilities tell everyone's story.

That's why I'd rather you look beyond who the story is focused on, everyone will get their share of the spotlight, don't you worry. Of course, I can't dictate how you read and who you like to read about, but that's just how I approached writing this.

This post has been edited by Onboy123 on Jun 14 2014, 09:01 PM

Sure as hell glad the reception is still as nice as always. xD

We sure have come a long way to our first milestone. So...I wonder if our next should be Chapter 40? LOL

Again, it's not that I am being biased on my focus or anything, but could there please be a chapter where Sakuya and Saburo's relationship be explained? XD I know Sakuya cares for him, but how does their relationship start? I really wanna know that.

And somehow I find the non-existent partnership betweem Sakuya and Hatori also needs elaboration. (like...why can't she trust Hatori enough while just address her as Four-Eyes? Is there some conflict between them that may lead to a rocky start of a friendship?)