One Monster Machine

"Alright, folks. The drone survival race is approaching its exciting finale!" "Right now, Thunderfly is picking up speed on the home stretch!"

...Excellent. Just as I predicted. Given its airframe, maintenance history, and the environment, there's no reason for it to lose.

"But wait! What's this?! Rumble Fish is approaching from the outside!"

What?!

"Rumble Fish takes the lead! It's leaving the others in the dust!" "Aaand Rumble Fish is first across the finish line! Rumble Fish is the winner, folks! Whew, what a twist! I don't think anyone saw that coming!"

No, no, no, no. This can't be! My calculations were perfect. My probability model flawless. This should have been an open-and-shut race.

Just what was I lacking?

...I can't let this stand.

I must double down. I need to risk more to win it all.

Next up is the sky race. It's only happens once a year, and there should be a hefty amount of chips moving through the hands of bookmakers. I'll send in a monster of a machine to cause an uproar big enough to bankrupt them all.

But to do so, I'll need to develop a new machine and run a few tests.

Come to think of it, I may already have the perfect model and the driver.

You told me to come here to check out your new device, but...

Isn't that just Galliard's motorcycle?

A replica of Galliard's motorcycle, to put it correctly.

So what do you need it for? And where'd the transporter go?

I've already disassembled it and put it away. Without a heading, I have no use for it anyway.

As for the replica, well... It's obviously for research purposes.

What're you researching?

Uncertainty. Or rather, the theory of probability. There's nothing I hate more than things that can't be predicted.

But I suppose there's no use lecturing you about it.

Professor Xianhua. Please tell me... Why have you asked us to come here? And what do you intend to do with a replica of my motorcycle?

I already told you: I'm researching the theory of probability.

It's a topic that requires constant devotion if one wishes to eliminate uncertainty and achieve perfection in their predictions!

I...see.

I don't really get it myself, but I'll take your word for it.

As you should. I appreciate your simplicit, er, sincerity.

Now, as to why I asked you here: I need your help with my research.

This bike is still just a prototype. It will require a high-performance Turbocharger if it's to reach greater speeds. I want you to get that for me, boy.

Turbocharger? What's that?

Put simply, it's a device that increases an engine's efficiency. There are multiple ways you can get one. For example, motorcyclists or people who enjoy tinkering with machines may have one.

I've put the data I have on it on that device. You should take a look at it when you have the time.

Right. So all I have to do is get you a Turbocharger.

And Galliard, I need you to help me gather data by riding the replica bike.

Here? I'm not sure that's a good idea.

The replica doesn't actually move. It's connected to a simulator that will help run the test. The simulator will reflect the actual performance of the vehicle. I plan to verify the bike's capabilities by conducting the same test again after we obtain a Turbocharger.

I see.

I doubt we would even be able to use half of this machine's potential in the city. But in a simulation, you can ride as fast as you want.

Very well. I accept.

I've created multiple courses for you to try in the simulation. I should be able to gather plenty of data with your help. And every byte counts. After all, if we can successfully maintain the bike's output after adding flight capabilities, the race will...

Race? What race?

Nothing. Now, let the experiments begin.

How are you liking the bike?

It's not bad... In fact, it feels almost like the real thing.

Good to hear. You've provided me with plenty of data.

...With this machine, I should be able to win the sky race.

Sky race?

Hold on. You mentioned a race before, didn't you?

D-did I? I must have misspoke.

We've help you come this far, Professor. I believe you owe us an explanation.

...Very well.

The sky race is an annual festival for all those enthralled by the skies. You'll see all sorts of craft above Nilva then, including hoverboards, airbikes, and flying androids.

I know that, but...

I can't imagine you participating in a motorcycle race.

Why would I?

The only thing I'm interested in is beating random probabilities.

Er... Is that why you want Galliard to enter the race?

Precisely. He's the only one who can ride this bike. And if I can make it fly, he'll be unbeatable. The other entrants won't even stand a chance.

Then I'll make back my bet and so much more...

I refuse.

What did you say?!

I haven't time to spare on such trivial things.

Oh...

Well, you've forced my hand. I'll ask the boy to ride instead.

M-me?!

I mean, I'll admit I was a little jealous I didn't get to try the simulation, but...

...This is for your troubles. I've put all the data in this device. You can use it to improve the performance of your own bike.

I will.

I don't think I can ride as well as Galliard, though...

Wh-what gives?! Why's the hand clutch so heavy?!

Oh no. I'm gonna crash!

Whew... It's finally over. I didn't know riding a motorcycle would be this hard.

Huh? Where'd Xianhua go?