Epilogue

Six years have passed since Team Speed Stars disbanded, and in those six years, so much has changed—some for the better, some for the worse. The world has moved on, yet the echoes of their legendary races still ring through the streets, the mountains, and the memories of those who were part of it all.

The new normal is a world where synthetic fuels have become the lifeblood of the automotive industry, and cars now run on these clean, eco-friendly alternatives. This shift has led to a revolutionary change: emissions from vehicles with internal combustion engines (ICE) have been completely eradicated. For many, this technological leap was seen as the future, the ideal of how things should be. However, it came with unexpected consequences—electric vehicle sales began to plummet. The market for electric cars, once seen as the ultimate replacement for gasoline-powered engines, started to show signs of stagnation. The true resurgence came in the form of ICE cars, making a roaring comeback as people embraced the raw power and thrill of driving once again. The sports car market exploded, with manufacturers unleashing machines that were light, powerful, and capable of thrilling performance. And yet, not every model lived up to the hype; some vehicles, while sleek and promising, were unfortunately underpowered, leaving enthusiasts yearning for the days of true speed.

Ningguang has gone on to become an exceptionally successful businesswoman, with a net worth that easily crosses into the hundreds of millions. Her investments in various business ventures have brought her unparalleled success, yet despite her wealth and status, she remains humble, maintaining the life of someone who values simplicity over excess. Her ties to Mt. Araumi are unbreakable—she still calls it home. Her love for racing hasn't waned with time; Ningguang can still be seen tearing through the mountain passes in her beloved white Mazda RX7 FC, the engine roaring to life as it's been so many times before. The mountain has changed, but she hasn't. The thrill of the race is still in her veins.

Just like Ningguang, Keqing has achieved tremendous success, her real estate empire making her worth hundreds of millions. But despite her massive fortune, she shares a quiet, unassuming life with Ningguang in the same picturesque mountain town. She hasn't left the thrill of her past behind either. Keqing still owns and drives her Midnight Purple Mazda RX7 FD, and like Ningguang, she occasionally takes it for a spin on the familiar winding roads, where the echoes of their past victories still seem to hang in the air.

Beidou and March are still at the same humble gas station, where they've worked for years. Beidou has found her peace, still managing the station alongside Lyney, who continues to own and operate it. Their lives may seem simple, but they are grounded, content with their work and the cars they've cherished for so long. Beidou, in particular, takes solace in her prized possession: her black Nissan Skyline R32—a beast on the road, as reliable as it is iconic. Meanwhile, March still enjoys the company of her Mica Blue Toyota Supra Mk4 Targa, a car as spirited and independent as she is, a reminder of her youthful adventures and the life she's built for herself.

Seele and Pela, having sought new horizons, have found success elsewhere, though they never forget their roots. They still visit the gas station on occasion, and their cars—symbols of their past triumphs—remain close to their hearts. Seele's Midnight Blue Nissan S30Z, lovingly nicknamed the Devil Z, is as much a part of her as the rebellious spirit that drove her to it. Pela, ever the enigmatic one, still treasures her white Toyota MR2 SW20, a car that carries with it memories of high-speed chases and victories won on the edge of danger.

Onto the two aces—the ones who carried Team Speed Stars' legacy and wrote their own chapters in the history of racing.

Clorinde has solidified herself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of rally racing, becoming a two-time national Inazuma Rally Champion. Her career in the rally scene is a testament to her exceptional talent and determination, though she's always been careful not to let the spotlight consume her. Despite her success, Clorinde has made it clear that she has no intention of following her father's footsteps into the World Rally Championship (WRC). She values her peaceful life, far from the constant barrage of media attention. It's a deliberate choice—she avoids interviews, evading the fame that could so easily swallow her whole. And though she's stepped away from the limelight, Clorinde has no intention of abandoning her love for rallying. She still owns her iconic 1983 Lancia Rally 037 Group B, A Car that used to belong to her father, and the car that defined her early years in the sport, and has recently added a new pride to her collection: the Kimera EVO 37, a modern-day tribute to the 037, capturing the spirit and soul of the original.

Collei, six months after the disbandment of Team Speed Stars, took a leap of faith. She joined Toyota's WRC Rally Team, joining the WRC and quickly making her mark. In her rookie season, she stunned the world by becoming the first-ever rookie to claim the World Rally Championship title. And as if that wasn't enough, Collei continued her dominance for four more consecutive years, securing five championships in a row—a feat that cemented her legacy as one of the greatest drivers in WRC history. However, as she reached the pinnacle of her career, Collei made a shocking announcement: she was retiring. Not just because she had nothing left to achieve anymore, but because she felt the pull of something new, something that would take her beyond the world of racing. Even as she walked away, the racing world felt the reverberations of her decision. Her beloved Toyota AE86, safely stored and preserved in Lynette's garage, still stands as a symbol of her beginnings, the very car that had once carried her through battles on the track. After the engine blew during an epic ace versus ace race with Clorinde, the AE86 was put to rest—but Collei's bond with the car remained unbroken. She continues to live alongside Amber, and though Arlecchino has retired from her tofu-making days, she still cherishes her Bayside Blue Skyline R34, a car that stands as a monument to Collei's incredible journey.

And so, the world moves on. Time does not wait for anyone, but the legacy of Team Speed Stars—of the races, the triumphs, and the bonds forged on the road—will never fade. The past may be gone, but the future is still being written, one mile at a time.

It was another busy day at the gas station. The sun hung high in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the small establishment. The rhythmic hum of passing cars mixed with the faint scent of gasoline, a familiar symphony for Beidou and March as they worked tirelessly to keep the flow of customers moving. Beidou finished tightening a gas cap, wiping the sweat off her brow with the back of her hand.

"What a day…" she muttered, her voice carrying a blend of exhaustion and satisfaction.

March leaned against the counter, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "You're telling me. Rush hour's like clockwork around here. You'd think people were stocking up for the end of the world or something."

Beidou chuckled, but her gaze drifted upward toward the peak of Mt. Yougou, its silhouette sharp against the clear sky. Her expression softened, her mind wandering to familiar faces and roads once raced. "I wonder how everyone else is doing…" she murmured.

The thought barely lingered before the growl of an approaching engine snapped her back to the present. Both women turned their heads toward the source. A sleek red Toyota Supra A90, its paint gleaming like a polished ruby, rolled smoothly into the lot, its low rumble commanding attention. It pulled to a stop directly in front of Beidou's and March's own Supra, forming a striking tableau of old meets new.

Beidou squinted, her brow furrowing. "Well, now, who the hell is this?"

The driver's side door swung open with a theatrical flair, revealing a striking figure. The woman stepped out, her vibrant green hair catching the sunlight, her purple eyes sharp yet playful. She pulled off her aviator sunglasses with a practiced ease, tossing them casually into the car. A familiar smirk curved her lips as she looked straight at them.

"I'm looking for two drivers from the Yougou Speed Suns," she called out, her tone brimming with confidence. "You wouldn't happen to know where they are, would you?"

The playful challenge hung in the air for a beat before her grin widened. "Oh, wait. Beidou! March!"

The realization hit like a lightning bolt. Beidou and March's jaws dropped in unison, their eyes widening with disbelief before joy took over. They practically launched themselves toward her, their voices colliding in an ecstatic shout.

"Collei!"

The three women embraced tightly, their laughter and cheers filling the lot. It wasn't just a reunion; it was a moment where time folded in on itself, bringing the past and present together in one vivid, heartwarming instant.

As they pulled apart, another familiar figure emerged from the Supra's passenger seat. Amber stepped out, her warm smile lighting up the moment. She stood back for a second, letting the scene unfold, before casually waving.

Beidou gave Collei a playful shove, her grin wide. "Well, look who's back in town! How's life treating you, five-time rally champion?"

Collei chuckled, running a hand through her hair. Her green locks shimmered like silk in the sunlight. "Not bad. Figured I'd come home after wrapping up my last campaign."

March crossed her arms, her eyebrows lifting with intrigue. "No shit! You retired from the WRC, right? What's next? World domination?"

Collei's expression turned mischievous. "Yeah, five titles felt like a good number to stop at. Besides, I've already raced on every continent and left enough tire marks to last a lifetime."

Beidou laughed, shaking her head in awe. "Damn right you have. Sixty-five races in five years, and you won fifty-eight of 'em! That's not domination—that's annihilation!"

March jabbed a finger toward Collei, her voice laced with pride. "And you didn't crash once. Not once!"

Collei rolled her eyes good-naturedly, a faint blush creeping into her cheeks. "Alright, alright. You're making me sound way cooler than I am. I just did what I do best—drive fast and keep the car in one piece."

Beidou couldn't help herself, listing off achievements as though reading from a racing hall of fame plaque. "Let's see: first rookie champion, youngest WRC winner, first woman to take the title, youngest to hit two, three, four, and five championships—should I keep going?"

Collei groaned, shaking her head with a laugh. "Please don't. I'm gonna need a bigger trophy cabinet if my ego gets any bigger."

Amber joined in, her voice teasing. "Speaking of big ideas, how about we throw a reunion party? Mt. Yougou, under the stars, just like old times. Call up the whole crew."

Collei raised an eyebrow, her grin returning. "Now that's an idea I can get behind. Why the hell not?"

Her gaze drifted toward the mountain, its trails bathed in golden light. "But first, I need to swing by and see Lynette. Then Dad, then Clorinde. Once I'm done, we'll plan something that'll bring the whole team together."

Amber clapped her hands, already brimming with excitement. "Perfect! I'll grab my Sileighty from the garage. A friend's been keeping it tuned for me—says it's ready to roll."

Collei smirked, giving her a playful nod. "Sounds like a plan."

Amber leaned in, planting a quick, affectionate kiss on Collei's cheek. "See you soon, sweetheart."

With that, Collei slid back into the Supra, her hands gripping the wheel like they always had—steady, confident, and ready to race. The engine roared to life, its deep growl cutting through the quiet afternoon as she eased out of the lot and onto the open road. Her next destination: Lynette's Garage, where old stories awaited and new plans were about to take shape.

Moments later, the red Toyota Supra A90 pulled smoothly into the lot of Lynette's Garage, its rumbling engine quieting as Collei parked it neatly in the designated area. She stepped out, the crisp scent of oil and metal meeting her senses, a smell that felt like home. The garage door stood ahead, and without hesitation, Collei approached, knocking firmly.

The door slid open almost immediately, revealing Lynette, her face lighting up with surprise and joy.

"Collei!" she exclaimed, pulling her into a warm embrace without a moment's hesitation.

Collei chuckled, returning the hug with equal enthusiasm. "It's been too long, Lynette! How've you been?"

Lynette stepped back, her hands resting on her hips as she surveyed Collei with a grin. "Better now that you're here. What about you, world champ? How's the retired life treating you?"

Collei smirked. "It's just starting, but I had to come back and see her first." Her eyes shifted past Lynette, locking onto a familiar silhouette in the showroom. Her breath caught for a moment.

There it was: her Toyota AE86, sitting proudly under the gleaming lights. Its iconic panda paint scheme—white with black accents—looked freshly polished, the shine reflecting the meticulous care it had received. The car was no longer encased in its protective bubble. It stood free, as if waiting for its owner to return and take it home.

Lynette followed Collei's gaze, a satisfied smile spreading across her face. She crossed her arms, leaning against the garage wall. "She's as good as new, just like you asked six years ago. We had the chassis straightened and reinforced—better than factory spec. It's about time you two were reunited."

Collei nodded, her eyes fixed on the car as if drawn by an invisible force. Slowly, she approached, her steps deliberate, savoring the moment. Her fingers brushed against the smooth surface of the hood as she circled the car, feeling the cool metal under her touch. It was more than a machine; it was a part of her soul, a companion through victories, defeats, and everything in between.

Finally, she reached the passenger side and gently opened the door. A familiar scent wafted out—a mix of alcantara, leather, and the faintest hint of motor oil. It was the smell of countless late-night drives and high-speed battles. Without hesitation, she slid into the bucket seat, the snug fit wrapping around her like an old friend's embrace.

Collei let out a soft, nostalgic laugh, running her hands over the steering wheel. "I missed you, old girl," she murmured, her voice filled with affection.

Her eyes shifted to the ignition. The keys were already there, waiting for her. She placed her hand on them, hesitating just a second as she took a deep breath, letting the memories flood back. Then, with a twist, she turned them to the accessory position. The dashboard lights flickered to life, their warm glow illuminating the familiar gauges.

Collei closed her eyes, exhaling slowly. And then, with no hesitation, she turned the key to the start position. The engine roared to life, its new heart—a finely tuned masterpiece—growling with a raw, powerful timbre. The sound filled the garage, echoing like a triumphant anthem.

Collei pumped her fist into the air. "Yes!" she exclaimed, her grin stretching ear to ear.

She reached out and rolled down the window, leaning slightly to look at Lynette. "Thank you so much, Lynette. You've outdone yourself."

Lynette smirked, leaning against the car with a sense of pride. "Don't mention it. She's ready for anything you throw at her—drifts, hill climbs, you name it."

Collei chuckled, nodding. "Good, because she's going to see some action soon enough." She pulled the Supra's keys from her pocket, offering them to Lynette. "Hope you don't mind if I leave the rental here. She's all yours for safekeeping."

Lynette waved her hand dismissively, taking the keys. "No worries. She's safe with me."

"Perfect." Collei reached for the five-point harness, securing herself into the AE86's bucket seat. She adjusted the mirrors, her movements smooth and practiced. "Well, I'm off. Next stop: Arlecchino's place."

With one last grin, Collei eased the AE86 into gear. The car rolled out of the garage, its engine purring like a contented beast ready to unleash its fury. As she hit the open road, the sound of her old companion roaring to life once more echoed through the mountains, a testament to their unbroken bond.

Moments later, Collei's AE86 came to a smooth stop in front of a familiar house nestled at the edge of the quiet neighborhood. She turned off the engine, the purring silence amplifying the sound of her heartbeat. For a moment, she simply sat there, staring at the home that held so many memories. The countless nights she'd spent delivering tofu in both her Eight Six and Arlecchino's R34 seemed to play like a film reel in her mind.

The sight of the house stirred something deep within her. Her chest tightened as the emotions she had tried to suppress began to surface. Tears welled up in her eyes, but she blinked them away quickly, forcing a small smile as she whispered to herself, "I miss this place…"

Taking a deep breath, Collei opened the door and stepped out, the cool breeze brushing against her skin. Her movements were purposeful but hesitant, each step toward the front door feeling heavier than the last. When she finally raised her hand to knock, the soft rap against the wooden surface seemed to echo more than it should, filling the stillness of the air.

The door opened moments later to reveal Arlecchino, her expression one of pure shock as she froze in place. Her usually composed demeanor melted away as recognition dawned on her.

"Hi..." Collei's voice was quiet, her lips curving into a shy smile, but the weight behind the single word made it monumental.

Arlecchino's breath hitched, her wide eyes quickly filling with tears she didn't bother to wipe away. Without hesitation, she threw her arms around Collei, pulling her into a tight embrace.

"My champion," Arlecchino whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. "I missed you, Collei."

Collei held her father just as tightly, her own tears now slipping down her cheeks. "I missed you too, Father."

For a while, neither of them moved, their embrace speaking volumes where words could not. Eventually, Arlecchino pulled back, her hands resting gently on Collei's shoulders. She studied her daughter's face as though trying to memorize every detail.

"You've come home?" she asked softly, her voice filled with hope.

Collei nodded, her green eyes shimmering with determination. "Yes. And I'm here to stay."

Arlecchino's expression softened into a warm smile, and with a simple gesture, she welcomed Collei back inside. The two entered the house, the familiar warmth of the place wrapping around Collei like an old friend.

Later, the two sat together at the dining table, the remnants of a simple yet hearty meal before them. The room was filled with the soft hum of conversation and the occasional burst of laughter as they caught up on the years they had missed.

"So," Arlecchino began, her sharp eyes studying her daughter with curiosity, "what's it like being a WRC champion?"

Collei leaned back in her chair, her smile turning thoughtful. "It's amazing, of course. But more than anything, I hope my wish for a peaceful, private life will be respected."

Arlecchino chuckled knowingly, nodding in agreement. "No kidding. Nobody wants fans camping outside their house."

Her gaze wandered to the wall, where a framed photo hung prominently. It was a picture of Team Speed Stars in their prime. Collei's AE86 and Clorinde's Lancia Rally 037 stood side by side, the two drivers perched proudly on their hoods, their grins wide with victory. Behind them, the rest of the team posed with cheerful smiles, the support vans standing tall in the background.

Arlecchino's expression softened as she stared at the photo. "That was a special time," she murmured. Her eyes flicked back to Collei, and a glint of curiosity sparked in them. "I see the Eight Six is back on the road. How's she running?"

Collei's face lit up with pride. "Like a dream. I had a custom Group A engine built for her—more durable, longer-lasting, but with the same power she had before."

Arlecchino raised an eyebrow, impressed. "And the over-revving issue?"

Collei grinned, leaning forward conspiratorially. "Fixed. She revs cleanly all the way to 11,000 RPM now, and I had a hard cut limiter installed, so no more blowing the engine."

Arlecchino chuckled, shaking her head in admiration. "That's great to hear. I'm glad she's back, ready for more adventures."

"She's more than ready," Collei said with a smile, her tone carrying both nostalgia and anticipation. "I'm happy she gets to live on and tell another tale."

For a moment, the two sat in comfortable silence, the weight of the years apart melting away. Around them, the room seemed to hold the echoes of laughter and the smell of fresh tofu, memories woven into the very fabric of the house. Together, they shared not just the past but the promise of new stories yet to come.

As time stretched into the late afternoon, the sun began its slow, deliberate descent over Lake Yougou, spilling a cascade of gold and amber across the landscape. The lake shimmered like liquid fire, its surface broken only by the occasional ripple of a distant bird skimming over it. The serenity of the scene was almost deceptive, a stark contrast to the adrenaline-fueled chaos that had unfolded earlier in the day.

Inside her garage, Clorinde was deep in concentration, her skilled hands delicately maneuvering the tools necessary to re-install the final part of the Volumex Compressor in her beloved Lancia Rally 037. The garage smelled of motor oil, rubber, and the faint tang of metal shavings—a familiar, comforting aroma for a seasoned rally racer. Clorinde wiped her brow with the back of her glove, her dark hair tied in a messy ponytail, and leaned closer to ensure every bolt was perfectly aligned.

The tranquil hum of her work was broken by a sudden, familiar sound. The aggressive, raspy growl of independent throttle bodies blended seamlessly with the distinct rumble of a high-revving four-cylinder engine. It was a symphony of horsepower that pulled her attention immediately.

A car pulled up right in front of the open garage. Clorinde turned her head just as the engine cut off with a throaty purr, followed by the sharp click of a door opening and closing.

There it was, unmistakable even after all this time: the Panda Scheme Toyota AE86. Its iconic white and black livery gleamed under the golden sunlight, its carbon fiber hood catching the light like a polished jewel. The pop-up headlights, slightly weathered yet full of personality, stared back at her like an old friend.

And standing next to it, grinning as if she'd just conquered every mountain pass on the continent, was Collei. Her eyes sparkled with the kind of mischievous confidence only a five-time rally champion could carry.

"Missed me, fellow rally racer?" Collei called out, her voice light but carrying enough weight to break through Clorinde's momentary awe.

"Collei, the five-time champion! You've got some nerve showing up unannounced!" Clorinde laughed as she hurried forward, arms outstretched.

The hug that followed was fierce and genuine, the kind of embrace that speaks volumes about shared history and countless nights chasing glory under starlit skies.

Clorinde pulled back just enough to take a good look at her friend. "Damn, it's been a while. How's life treating you?"

Collei exhaled a deep, contented sigh, her smirk softening. "Not bad at all. I see you're still keeping the 037 alive and kicking."

"Alive, kicking, and better than ever," Clorinde said proudly, jerking her thumb toward the car. "But that's not all. I've got something new—well, new-ish. A Kimera EVO 37. Think of it as the 037's cooler, modern cousin. Twin-charged, like the old S4—pure madness on wheels."

"No kidding," Collei said, eyebrows lifting in genuine appreciation. "I'd love to take a spin in that beast sometime."

Clorinde leaned casually against the Lancia's exposed engine frame, the rear hatch still propped open. "So, what brings the legend herself out here? You've got something up your sleeve; I can tell."

Collei's grin widened as she straightened, her hands sliding into her jacket pockets. "Reunion time. I'm pulling together Team Speed Stars and a few other friends. Tomorrow night, family diner down in town. I've already reserved the whole place. You in?"

Clorinde's expression softened as the weight of the invitation settled over her. Memories of late-night races, shared triumphs, and bruised egos flashed through her mind. "You know I wouldn't miss that for the world. I'll round up whoever I can. Count me in."

"Perfect," Collei said, her voice brimming with excitement. "I'll swing by tonight for a final check-in, but for now, I've got a couple more stops to make."

The two women shared another quick, heartfelt hug before Collei sauntered back to her AE86. The car's sleek profile seemed to come alive as she fired up the engine, the sound reverberating through the quiet neighborhood.

Clorinde watched as the AE86 peeled out, its rear tires briefly chirping against the pavement before gripping hard and launching toward the winding road that led back into town. A soft smile lingered on her face as she turned back to her garage. The golden light of the setting sun painted everything in a warm glow, but Clorinde's mind was already on tomorrow.

It was going to be one hell of a reunion.

The following evening, as the sun began to set, Collei found herself at the top of the familiar road leading to Yougou's Downhill, the place where it had all started. The air was thick with the scent of pine and the faint, lingering smell of asphalt baking under the day's heat. She pulled her AE86 to a stop, the car idling quietly as she gazed out at the winding serpent of road below her.

The sky was a gradient of deep orange and violet, streaked with the last remnants of daylight. Pulling her phone from the dashboard mount, she checked the time—five o'clock. The diner awaited, along with the reunion of her former rivals and closest friends.

But first, there was something she needed to do.

Her lips curved into a sly grin as she pocketed the phone, her eyes gleaming with determination. "Just one run... for old times' sake."

Without hesitation, Collei climbed back into the driver's seat, pulling the harness over her shoulders. The click of the five-point harness and the tightening of straps felt like a ritual, grounding her in the moment.

The engine roared to life as she twisted the key. The newly installed 1.6-liter Silvertop 4AGE Group A engine sang out, its aggressive growl reverberating off the mountain's walls. It wasn't just a car; it was her partner, her legacy.

"Alright, let's go!" she muttered, slamming the shifter into first gear and planting her foot on the accelerator.

The AE86 surged forward, the rear tires biting into the pavement with a ferocity that sent adrenaline coursing through her veins. The headlights illuminated the road ahead, cutting through the growing shadows.

The first right-hand hairpin came up fast—faster than she remembered. Collei's focus sharpened as her hands flew over the wheel. A quick stab at the brakes, a flick of the wrist, and the car initiated a flawless four-wheel drift. The rear tires screamed against the pavement, leaving a faint trail of smoke as the AE86 slid gracefully through the corner.

This was her Cuilein Zone. Her heartbeat synced with the rhythm of the car, the road, and the roaring engine. Every input she gave was precise, instinctual. It was as if she and the AE86 had never been apart.

As she powered down the longest straightaway, the growl of her engine was joined by another. Then another. Collei glanced in her rearview mirror, her curiosity piqued.

A lineup of headlights came into view, gaining on her fast. She eased off the throttle just enough to see who dared to join her impromptu descent.

First up was the unmistakable silhouette of Clorinde's Lancia Rally 037. The low, guttural growl of its supercharged engine was like a war cry. Clorinde pulled alongside, her gloved hand shooting a quick thumbs-up before falling back into formation.

Behind her were two rotary symphonies—Ningguang's pristine white RX7 FC and Keqing's Midnight Purple RX7 FC, both hugging the road with surgical precision.

And then more joined in: Navia's blazing red Honda NSX, with Albedo riding shotgun, the duo flashing confident smiles as they passed. Ganyu's sky-blue Honda S2000 brought up the rear, its naturally aspirated scream echoing through the canyon.

It was as if no time had passed.

Collei smirked, the competitive fire in her eyes sparking anew. "Alright, you wanna play? Try and keep up!"

She slammed her foot back onto the gas, and the AE86 shot forward like an arrow, the convoy following in perfect unison.

Through every hairpin, every chicane, and every treacherous curve, the six cars moved like a single entity, drifting in synchronized harmony. The screech of tires and the roar of engines filled the air, a symphony of speed and skill that celebrated their shared love for the road.

The world outside the mountain pass blurred into obscurity, leaving only the thrill of the chase. This wasn't just a race—it was a reunion in motion.

By the time they reached the base of the mountain, the convoy slowed, each car rolling into the parking lot of the family diner they all remembered.

The place was alive with the glow of neon signs and the murmur of voices. Rows of iconic cars were packed into the lot, each one a legend in its own right.

Collei parked her AE86 next to Clorinde's Lancia, shutting off the engine and stepping out. Her gaze swept across the sea of vehicles, her chest tightening with nostalgia.

There they were: Yelan's jet-black Blackbird, its sleek silhouette a testament to her precision driving. Silverwolf's tuned Integra, unmistakable with its custom vinyl decals. Amber's iconic Sileighty, its paint gleaming like freshly polished amber.

March's Supra. Seele's Devil Z. Pela's perfectly balanced MR2. Feixiao's roaring Lancer Evo IX. Yoimiya's bright white Sierra Cosworth. Eula's GT86 with its subtle, icy elegance. Ayaka's AE86, her old rival in a twin machine.

And then... there it was.

Her father's R34 Skyline GT-R. Bayside blue, sitting like a king among gods.

Collei's breath hitched, a wide smile spreading across her face. Her heart swelled with pride, excitement, and a sense of belonging she hadn't felt in years.

"This..." she whispered, the words catching in her throat before she laughed aloud. "This is fucking awesome."

As the convoy of cars rolled into the diner parking lot, their engines idling in a harmonious symphony, Ningguang's RX7 FC and Keqing's RX7 FD pulled up directly behind Collei's AE86 and Clorinde's Lancia 037. Their sleek, polished frames gleamed under the soft glow of the streetlights, a testament to their immaculate care.

The hiss of air brakes and the quiet click of car doors opening announced their arrival. Ningguang stepped out first, her platinum hair cascading down her shoulders as she brushed it loose with a practiced hand. Keqing followed, her midnight-purple locks framing her sharp, determined eyes.

Ningguang turned toward Collei with open arms, her voice ringing out like a clarion call. "Collei! Our five-time World Rally Champion!"

Collei grinned broadly as she walked over, pulling Ningguang into a tight hug. "Oh, Ningguang. It's so nice to see you too!"

The two shared a moment of genuine warmth before Collei moved to embrace Keqing, then Albedo, Ganyu, and finally Navia, each hug heartfelt and full of the unspoken bond that time hadn't diminished.

Collei stepped back to look at her assembled team, her eyes shimmering with gratitude. She nodded firmly. "Thank you all for coming."

Ningguang placed an arm over Collei's shoulder, her smile as radiant as ever. "Come on, let's make our way inside. Everyone's waiting for you."

As they entered the diner, Collei was greeted by the sudden sound of chairs scraping against the floor. The entire room rose to its feet, and a wave of applause filled the space. Faces from her past—rivals, teammates, and opponents alike—clapped and cheered, their admiration and respect palpable.

Collei froze for a moment, overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and recognition. Ningguang stepped forward, handing her a microphone with a knowing smile. "Come on, Collei. Give a speech."

Taking a deep breath, Collei stepped to the front of the diner. The room quieted, and all eyes turned to her as she began to speak. Her voice was steady, warm, and tinged with nostalgia.

"Exactly seven years ago, I was just a fresh graduate from high school. Twelve years ago, I started doing deliveries for my dad, Arlecchino. She taught me everything about driving on the mountain pass—the precision, the focus, the feel of the road beneath the tires. Back then, I hated it. I drove because I had to. Because it helped the family business. I never imagined it would become my passion, my identity, my everything.

But then, one night, everything changed. Seven years ago, I found myself in an impromptu race against Keqing's RX7 on Yougou's Downhill. It wasn't planned or expected, but that race lit a spark in me I didn't know existed. That night, I overheard people talking—buzzing about 'some Eight Six' that had beaten an RX7. I had no idea that 'some Eight Six' was me until it became the talk of Yougou.

Eventually, my dad found out. She didn't scold me. She didn't yell or ground me like I thought she would. Instead, she said something that would change my life forever: 'Go to Yougou tonight. Find some punk in an FD they claim is the fastest in Araumi. And beat the living fire out of her in the downhill.' That's exactly what I did. That night wasn't just a race—it was a statement. It wasn't about the win, but the connection to the road, the thrill of the challenge, and the pride of the pass.

The following week, my friend March—always the instigator—got involved. She talked to Yelan, who came by the Gas station i used to work for, She was already buzzing about my Eight Six, and somehow, without me even knowing, I was challenged to another race. By the time I found out, it was too late to back out. It was a Saturday night, and I remember the nerves building as I lined up against Yelan. But when the engines roared, the nerves faded. That race wasn't just a competition—it was a revelation. For the first time, I felt like I belonged on the road. That night, I stopped being just a driver. I became a racer.

I raced. And I won. But victory didn't come without loss. I'll never forget the first engine I blew. God, I was devastated. I dropped to my knees, watching the steam billow from the hood, hearing the clanking of broken metal, and seeing oil pooling around the fender. It felt like a part of me had shattered. I thought I'd destroyed everything my dad had worked so hard to build. I didn't sleep for days. I couldn't stop blaming myself. But Dad didn't let me stay down for long. We rebuilt. We came back stronger with a new Group A engine—an engine that screamed to 11,000 RPMs. It felt untamable at first, like it was fighting against me. But then, I learned to let it breathe, to let it sing. And together, we became unstoppable.

Then Team Speed Stars happened.

We weren't just a team; we were a force of nature. The pride of Narukami Prefecture. Every course we tackled, we conquered. We raced against the best—against teams with more money, better cars, and bigger reputations—and we crushed them. Even when someone sabotaged the course, causing Clorinde's Lancia 037 to crash on a hairpin, we didn't back down. We rebuilt. We came back stronger. I'll never forget that night on Asase Pass, where Clorinde absolutely dominated the uphill. It was the kind of race that legends are made of. We were undefeated, and we earned every single victory.

Then came the Ace versus Ace race—the race to end all races. Me against Clorinde. Two Aces. Two drivers who had pushed each other to the edge and back. That race was everything—every lesson, every victory, all wrapped into one. It was fierce, it was relentless, and it was beautiful. But the race to the finish line, my Eight Six couldn't take it anymore. I blew my second engine trying to pass Clorinde. I crossed the line, but I knew the car had given everything it had. We called it a draw, and honestly? It was perfect. That race wasn't about winning. It was about respect. It was about ending the rivalry that had started with our fathers and forging something new—a bond that went beyond the road.

Six months after Team Speed Stars disbanded, I became a Toyota Works Rally driver for the WRC. My first outing was in Monte Carlo, and I'll never forget the nerves as I stood on the starting line. But once I hit the road, it all clicked. I went on to win my full-time season in the WRC, becoming the first rookie champion, the first female world champion, and the youngest world champion. Over the next four years, I won four more titles. Five consecutive WRC championships in a row. Even now, it feels surreal.

Just a couple of months ago, I announced my retirement from the WRC. It wasn't an easy decision, but it was the right one. I've achieved everything I set out to do. Out of 65 locations, I won 58 of them. And didnt finish lower than fourth. I've lived my dream, and I've cemented my place in the history of rally racing, as one of the all time greats. But none of it would've been possible without all of you.

To the Narukami Prefecture's racing scene, to the rivals who pushed me to be better, to the teammates who believed in me—to all of you, thank you. You've all been a part of this journey, and I'll carry these memories with me forever."

Collei raised her glass high, her voice steady and strong. "To everyone. Cheers—to the road that brought us together and the family we've become!"

The room erupted in cheers, glasses clinking and laughter spilling into the night. As Collei set down her glass and the microphone, she was immediately swept into conversations, hugs, and laughter with her old friends.

Amid the warmth of the reunion, her gaze drifted out to the parking lot beyond the diner's glass windows. There, under the dim glow of a streetlamp, her AE86 stood parked beside Clorinde's 037 and her father's iconic R34 Skyline GT-R. The three cars—symbols of her past, her journey, and her legacy—stood side by side, as if watching over the night.

A soft smile spread across her face, her heart swelling with contentment. This wasn't just a celebration of the past—it was a promise for the future. A new chapter awaited her, one filled with endless possibilities. But tonight, she allowed herself to bask in the glow of the people who had stood by her side through every twist and turn.

And so, the story of The Speed of the Stars came to a close—not with an ending, but with the promise of something even greater yet to come.