Dr Nitro Gen met me at the mechanic’s workshop in Raceview, where my Grand Prix would be taking place as part of the Intergalactic Championship later in the year. The doctor was a genius when it came to car enhancements, so I’d asked him to meet me there to discuss strategy around my racing kart.
“Before we get started,” I said, “I’d like to thank Charles, the best mechanic Raceview has ever seen, for allowing us to do this at his workshop.”
“It’s no problem, Brash,” said Charles. “Happy to have you.”
“Yes, yes,” said Nitro Gen, waving a dismissive hand. “Now, let’s discuss how you’re planning to make the most out of the boost pads the alien Mr Dioxyde has announced for his competition. We’ll need to make sure your tyres have enough grip to avoid spinning out at such high speeds.”
I nodded and crossed my arms. “A good point. And I’ll need some good defences since Mr Dioxyde has also announced that all karts will be able to make use of weapons systems placed along the track. Ideally, all our modifications stay within parameters that Charles can work with, as I’ll bring the kart around for a tune-up at this professional car service workshop before the race.”
“So, good handling and high defence,” said Dr Nitro Gen. “Anything else a priority?”
“A strong suspension system would be ideal,” I said. “Otherwise, I’ll be hit by a single bowling bomb or missile and be unable to drive.”
Dr Nitro Gen tapped his foot, thinking for a moment. “I have a few ideas. I’ll draw up some plans and see what we can come up with. Now, in terms of aesthetics, how would you like your kart to look?”
“I’m thinking something in the style of a Toy-Oh-Ta Hill-Axe, embracing my Australian side. Preferably blue. Think you can handle that?”
“A kart in the style of a Hill-Axe,” mused Dr Nitro Gen. “An interesting challenge, but I think I can manage it. When I’m done, we’ll have you winning Grand Prix’s and saving Earth in no time.”