WGP2 Season III [Roleplay Thread]

[Togonistan]

Kaylan Racing Team Private Test
Hwoarang Racing Circuit, Togonistan

''Okay gentlemen, each and every one of you will get 20 laps behind the wheel to get to know the car and the track. After that, you will perform 6 fast laps. Those will be timed and you are expected to give your everything during those laps, so show us what you got!'' Tanielu Felafa explained to drivers who had lined up in the pit garage. Amongst them were Abdoulaye Goita, Lane Carter, Miko Kaukanna and Barnabas Mate. The team had accepted Solymok's offer to let their sponsored driver participate. ''If you have any questions or wish to make adjustments to the car's setup during the test, our crew is here to help you.''

As the drivers started their test, Tanielu and Niko stood in the pit garage with their eyes nailed to the monitors. ''Say, what happened to Baker? I don't see him here.''

''Didn't give us any answer.''

''Ah, what a shame. Would've helped to have an experienced driver by Isaia's side. I guess we'll go for some young meat again then. This Mate guy seems promising but he needs to prove himself to us, I shall not sign anyone due to a mere sponsorship deal.''

As the hours passed, the test was eventually over with lap times seen on the pit lane monitors:

Stint 1

1 Abdoulaye Goita       1:24.277
2 Barnabas Mate         1:26.113
3 Lane Carter           1:26.281
4 Miko Kaukanna         1:26.296

Stint 2

1 Abdoulaye Goita       1:24.239
2 Miko Kaukanna         1:26.162
3 Barnabas Mate         1:26.182
4 Lane Carter           1:26.269

Stint 3

1 Abdoulaye Goita       1:24.376
2 Barnabas Mate         1:26.216
3 Lane Carter           1:26.232
4 Miko Kaukanna         1:26.291

Stint 4

1 Abdoulaye Goita       1:24.213
2 Lane Carter           1:26.168
3 Barnabas Mate         1:26.216
4 Miko Kaukanna         1:26.654

Stint 5

1 Abdoulaye Goita       1:24.436
2 Barnabas Mate         1:26.232
3 Lane Carter           1:26.330
4 Miko Kaukanna         1:26.420

Stint 6

1 Abdoulaye Goita       1:24.308
2 Lane Carter           1:26.146
3 Barnabas Mate         1:26.510
4 Miko Kaukanna         1:26.566

Kaylan Racing HQ
Conference Room
Post-test

''Well, the results speak for themselves. Goita leading by roughly 2 secs on every stint. The boy really floored that pedal there.''

''He's got speed, can't argue about that. Of course, it is easier to show speed on an empty track than in any racing situation.''

''Whatever the case, I say we offer Goita the 2nd seat in Kaylan.'' ''Give the boy a chance. Although, do keep Mate in shortlist as a 2nd preference.''

[Vilita and Turori]

Fully Sponsored Jama'obo Pegasii looks for WGP2 Ride

After spending a number of seasons touring the multiverse making appearances in various motor racing disciplines including the NSSCRA, Hodori GT Domestic Circuit and the Electronic Grand Prix with the support of their personal sponsor the Vilisorma Beverage Company, Jama'obo Pegasii made their first full-time campaign in a single motorsport discipline when they drove the entire WGP2 Season Two for Savojarna's SVJ Racing Team. While Pegasii had a number of strong runs, overall the season was a disappointment for the Vilita & Turori driver who had hoped to compete for the season title.

Following the conclusion of the WGP2 Season two campaign, Pegasii made a surprise return to Stock Cars, making their first NSSCRA appearance since the Season 6 finale at the Tundra Falls Proving Grounds when they took to the track at the Imperial Speedway in South Stead, Vangaziland in a deal to help promote the Vilisorma Beverage Company's newest product line, the Vilaye Roast. There was one hiccup to the campaign however and that is the fact that the car that actually took to the track did not match the car that had been used to create promotional material for the product launch earlier in the week. While all the production shots had been of Jama'obo Pegasii with the familiar #37 on the car, come race day it was the #87 Vilaye Roast Dart taking the green flag and not the #37. In the end it was all just for the marketing material as Pegasii is a well known jack-of-all trades in the Motorsports world and the NSSCRA Stock Car offered the Vilisorma Beverage Company the best canvas to paint the name of their newest brand to use in their advertisements. With the campaign kicked off, Pegasii would further their reputation as being able to drive anything with a steering wheel having represented the Vilitan Union in the 14th Olympic Winter Games during the Ice Racing demonstration event. While Pegasii seems to have buried the hatchet with Vilita & Turori Motorsports having reunited with them during the NSSCRA Season 8 campaign, is not expected to be considering any offers from VTM Tropicorp Engineering at the moment due to a desire to be a #1 driver and have prominent placement for sponsor Vilaye Roast.

Now Pegasii looks to return for another full WGP2 campaign committing their future to the Open Wheel sport after some off-season rumors that they were considering a return to Stock Cars. Jama'obo Pegasii brings full sponsorship from the Vilisorma Beverage Company's "Vilaye Roast" brand who can completely fund incidental costs for Pegasii to be supported competitively for the entire WGP2 Season. While Pegasii is not likely to participate in any open trial sessions for new WGP2 teams, any team that is interested in signing the multi-talented driver can either contact the Vilita and Turorian driver's sponsor or make an offer directly to Pegasii. Vilaye Roast is the latest release from the Vilisorma Beverage Company, an alternative energy beverage looking to compete in the morning consumables and pick-me-ups market. Vilaye Roast is offered in two forms, the traditional canned product and a powdered form that could either be added to water or used in a roasting drip pot to produce the savory kick of the new Vilaye Roast beverage.

---

[Diarcesia]

Why choose Phoenician Tires?

Phoenician Tires hugs the asphalt more than your average rubber. They're a little wider than the typical racing slicks, resulting in more tread surface. There's more grip, allowing you to control speed through the most demanding of turns.

We help enable racers drive fast to first place. As engineers, our primary role is to make sure that the overall package performance is suitable for your needs.

It's why the Phoenician Thora rubber is the tire of choice for the WGP Tier Three races throughout Diarcesia.

To summarize, a good grip translates into improved improve speeds on the track where it matters. A sloppily-made tire makes your car look like a second rate competitor in the weekend. The Thora's secret lies in our special rubber compound. It doesn't take much to make a world of difference on the track with a well thought out grip and proper timing combined with a well balanced engine.

---

Teams that select Phoenician Tires as a supplier in any of the WGP2 races will receive a 30% discount on its tires for the Pryfurium Circuit Masters weekend.

---

After preliminary assessments of the participating teams' needs, the Phoenician Tires Company sends an invitation to SinVal Racing, UrGa Motorsports Division, Nexus Racing, Adelphia-VMR, and Bitten Heroes Academy to evaluate its products. Representatives will travel to the teams' track of choice and a set number of tires can be tested, free of charge.

[Somehow Related to Rarity]

Adelphia-VMR
OOC: This was done in a rush, so don't expect it to be any better than my first RPs.

---

Winter was in his office, looking through all his emails. He didn't get as many replies as he expected, but what did he care? As long as people were interested in his team he was alright.
So, Sara Luna of Diarcesia and Abdoulaye Goita of Recuecn was interested? Okay, sign them up. Also, Badai Angin said that to sign Gozum he'll need to pay compensation. No problem. He gladly added him into the list of drivers attending the course. He also heard news that William Archer was going to go to any team that had an opening, so that was a yes.

So, some other admin stuff. Winter looked through the list of tyre suppliers. One particularly caught his eye. It was Phoenician Tyres. He had done some research on them and they were perfect for Adelphia's car.
So, for the tyres, Phoenician Tyres would be our choice.

Just then he heard a knock on the door. He opened it and it was Carmichael Fire, the pony he had been waiting for.

---

Carmi

---

Carmi entered the room with a letter in his hoof. He looked a bit drowsy but his appearance made up for it. He was wearing a shiny tuxedo and a suitcase. Well, he probably dressed too formally, but what did he care?
After some paperwork he had signed to be Adelphia-VMR's first driver. He could hardly wait.

[TJUN-ia]

"Can you be both happy and sad at the same time?"

That was what Lane Carter was thinking on the flight back from Togonistan. Kaylan let him test their car and he showed some promise but they didn't choose him in the end. Sure, he was sad that he didn't get picked but he felt happy to be given the chance in the first place.

"Now it's time for the next step" he thought. He wasn't flying back to TJUN-ia. There's a team in Trans-Dniesters by the name of the UrGa Motorsports Division. Word is that the 2 drivers they wanted aren't available so they have the cars but no one to drive them.

This could be a great opportunity. Sure going to a team based in a post-Soviet dictatorship might be a big risk, but it was a risk he was willing to take.

Lane is on route to UrGa. "Time to learn some Russian, I guess?"

[Krainin]

Bringing the latest news updates around Krainin 24/7

Edward Baker Announces Another Run In WGP2
By: Tony Jackson

Edward Baker in 2003.

Edward Baker, 2001 F1 Champion, has recently announced that he intends to run the World Grand Prix Two, WGP2, again. Last season he ran for VTM Tropicorp Engineering. He ended up getting a win at the last race in Revinka Street Circuit. I was able to sit down and talk with Edward to get his thoughts on the upcoming WGP2 season.

Tony Jackson: Greetings Ed. Glad you're willing to talk to us again.

Edward Baker: Thanks. I'm happy to be here.

TJ: So, what made you decide to join the WGP2 again?

EB: I love to race and my opportunities to race in the Formula Racing Series are getting smaller and smaller.

TJ: So you race internationally to scratch that racing itch.

EB: Yea, you can say it like that.

TJ: So, looking at the upcoming season, is there any particular team that you're looking at?

EB: Well, it'll be nice to rejoin the team I was on last year. Whatever team takes me, I'll be fine with it.

TJ: So, let's talk about the FRS.

EB: Sure.

TJ: So, I hear that for 2020, you'll be racing part time for O'Sing Racing Inc.

EB: That it true, although I still have one race under contract with Swine Racing.

TJ: And what race is that?

EB: Uh, the Imperial 300 at Palace Raceway.

TJ: You've been racing part time with Swine Racing since 2012. What do you think about them?

EB: Well, performance wise, the team isn't that good. I've been able to get 15th, but the equipment typically has me around 20th to 25th. Talking about the owners themselves, they're nice. We're basically like family.

TJ: That's nice that you have a strong relationship with the team.

EB: Yea, it's nice. They were bummed when they found out I signed up with O'Sing Racing Inc. for 2020, but they're supporting me through the transition.

TJ: So, back to the WGP2. Are you willing to do more seasons even if you go full time with O'Sing Racing Inc. in the future?

EB: Yea, the WGP2 is during the off season. After I retire in a few years, hell I might even try the main World Grand Prix. I'm only 44, I'll race until I can't race anymore.

TJ: Well, I hope you have a good time this season and maybe get a few more wins.

EB: Thanks and thanks for having me.

[Togonistan]

Dom Falepeau's apartment
Tushlark, Togonistan

Dom was in his penthouse apartment home, laying on the couch with a laptop on his lap. He was about to start reading a news article related to the latest WGP2 gossip, when a doorbell was rang by someone. He casually closed the laptop and put it on a coffee table, as he stood up and went to open the door. There she was, dressed in a stylish business outfit accompanied by a large designer handbag.

''Good afternoon Mareta,'' Dom said with a smile on his face as he let the woman in. That was Mareta Loferi, Dom's personal agent he had hired at the start of the year. The man had thought he could use someone who'd help him out with his management tasks.

''Hello Dom,'' Mareta nod, ''looking fresh as always, I must say.''

As the woman took a seat, Dom went for a trip to his kitchen, just to get back a few minutes later with two cups of coffee, which he placed on the table. ''So, what do you have for me?''

''Well, I have been looking through the documentation about WGP2, quite a few teams on the grid this season. Some big names, some less significant ones...''

''Indeed. I have kept track on them myself as well.''

''...so, correct me if I am wrong, but you have some big expectations for this year, right?''

''Well, you can never dream big,'' Dom laughed.

''Big dreams also require the right tools to be achievable. Therefore, looking through available options, I thought it would be best if we tried to get you into a decent, well established team with some history. Some big cat on the WGPO scene.''

''Shoot.''

''Therefore, I contacted both VTM Tropicorp Engineering as well as Bitten Heroes Academy on your behalf to get in talks with either of them about a possible seat for the season. Also, I signed you up for a testing with Badai Angin-IGR. All three are solid teams with great background, and very professional.

''All great choices, but what if we have no luck with any of them? I really want a backup plan just to be safe...''

''Be positive. Besides, you have a good backing in the form of Elegamment now. In the worst case scenario, we could buy a seat in some backmarker team, but we both want to avoid that scenario, don't we?''

''You know... you're right. Let's take things step by step for now.''

[Recuecn]

Abdoulaye assessed his emotions as he drove his twenty practice laps before the Kaylan private test. He remembered the last time he'd been in a WGP car. This was totally unalike. Sure, WGP2-level acceleration made the Kaylan machine handle differently, but what made the experience feel entirely distinct was being in a completely new mental space. Last year at Facsgend he had felt nervous and then progressively more frustrated as that affected his performance, launching him into a downward spiral. He hadn’t broken out of his funk since.

Yet ever since receiving the Kaylan invitation, Abdoulaye’s depression had been slowly evaporating. Looking out of the window on the plane to Togonistan, the sun shining on the cloudtops had warmed his soul, and lining up for the instructions with the other drivers he’d felt no stress or pressure—nothing but self-confidence. Abdoulaye remembered looking at the others’ faces. He’d stood next to Barnabas Mate, on whose face he’d read a clear hunger for the seat. Barnabas had the advantages of WGP3 experience—Ala, he’d almost won a championship—plus a major sponsorship, and, most importantly, a strong drive to sign this deal. But Abdoulaye wasn’t intimidated.

Now, here was Abdoulaye, feeling out the circuit. It was going swimmingly. The car was made for him; it matched his strengths perfectly. As long as I don’t crash, Abdoulaye thought.

The practice sessions over, the hot laps began. Abdoulaye took a seat and waited his turn, sipping some water. His unconcern surprised even himself. He looked over at Mate, who was pacing back and forth.

“You really want this, don’t you?” asked Abdoulaye.

“Yeah.” The intensity in Barnabas’ voice said more than he did.

Lane Carter finished up and pulled in. It was Mate’s turn. Abdoulaye slapped him on the back. “You got this.”

Finally it was Abdoulaye’s turn. He took his seat and the wheel in his hands made him happy. Somehow in that moment, he knew he was supposed to be in that car. He started the engine and flew out of the pit lane and down the track.

Six laps later he returned, knowing he’d succeeded. He was happier than he’d been in months. He could feel the joy welling up inside, but he kept his external reserve. Abdoulaye wasn’t one for displays of emotion in the first place, and it would have been particularly inappropriate to celebrate in front of the other drivers. Abdoulaye looked around. Mate and the others were there, their faces grim and set. They all congratulated each other as they left.

Soon after, Abdoulaye got the phone call he’d been waiting for his whole life. He knew who was calling the instant he heard it ring. He picked up the phone; yes, it was Kaylan, yes, they were offering him the seat. The confidence he’d felt welled up in him again. Could it carry him through the season? It had better; it was making him act strangely.

“Give the seat to Mate, he wants it more than I do.”

OOC: OK'd with Filindostan

[Somehow Related to Rarity]

Adelphia-VMR
OOC: This was done in a rush, so don't expect it to be any better than my first RPs.

---

Winter was in his office, looking through all his emails. He didn't get as many replies as he expected, but what did he care? As long as people were interested in his team he was alright.
So, Sara Luna of Diarcesia and Abdoulaye Goita of Recuecn was interested? Okay, sign them up. Also, Badai Angin said that to sign Gozum he'll need to pay compensation. No problem. He gladly added him into the list of drivers attending the course. He also heard news that William Archer was going to go to any team that had an opening, so that was a yes.

So, some other admin stuff. Winter looked through the list of tyre suppliers. One particularly caught his eye. It was Phoenician Tyres. He had done some research on them and they were perfect for Adelphia's car.
So, for the tyres, Phoenician Tyres would be our choice.

Just then he heard a knock on the door. He opened it and it was Carmichael Fire, the pony he had been waiting for.

---

Carmi

---

Carmi entered the room with a letter in his hoof. He looked a bit drowsy but his appearance made up for it. He was wearing a shiny tuxedo and a suitcase. Well, he probably dressed too formally, but what did he care?
After some paperwork he had signed to be Adelphia-VMR's first driver. He could hardly wait.

OOC: Resukts will be postponed to Thursday because of IRL shit.

[Nekoni]

Neretti Residence, Outskirts of Varea
11 February, 23:55

It was another standard Tuesday night in the Neretti household. The TV was on, the wine was well opened and flowing freely, and on the sofa in the warm front room, Mika was snuggled up in a blanket with her boyfriend. Mika swished the last remains of her cava around the glass before knocking back the contents. She instinctively poked Rémy. "Your turn to top up, love." He jokingly grunted and meandered from the toasty warmth of the sofa into the freezing kitchen, and slid another bottle of white out of the fridge. As he did, he looked up at the counter and saw a strange blue glow from the smartphone on it. Mika's smartphone. An unknown number, nine missed calls.

He grabbed the phone and brought it in with the wine, and passed it to her. "You got a fan, Mika. Persistent one, too." The moment it was in her hands, the phone vibrated again. She picked it up and heard what the caller had to say...

"Finally! I thought you were never going to pick up."
"Who's this?" asked Mika, surprised that the voice on the other side of the phone wasn't an automated one telling her that she could claim money from her car crash last year.
"A little racing team called Polaris." Her eyes lit up.
"You're shitting me, right? The big one!?" The voice laughed.
"Well...yes and no. You are aware that Polaris has its affiliate, Polestar Racing? The WGP2 team."
"The one in reserve?"
"Well, not any more. Polestar is officially a team. Nykipiflugpuun Noortekoondis has fallen into financial...issues."
"I'm impressed you were able to say that team in one go," Mika responded. The voice cackled.
"Ha! The office has been practicing for months. Almost as much as on the car itself! Anyway, let's get down to business. Polestar's in the mix again. The team wants you, and I know you're going to accept it. Check your mail."

Just before Mika could respond, the caller hung up. Mika beamed as she paused the TV and got out her laptop.
"Why are you so happy?" Rémy asked, as she accessed her email, and...sure enough, the newest email was a professional-looking one from polarisracing.nk, displaying the Polestar WGP2 car This was real, alright.

She closed the laptop, grabbed her wine glass and kissed her partner on the cheek. "Bad news, love. I'm gonna be going global."

(OOC: Following discussion with Nimbus and Aboveland, Polestar Racing is now a CONFIRMED entrant into the WGP2. Cypress G2 are committed to supply tires, and Mika Neretti is confirmed as First Driver. We are currently looking for second drivers.)

[Auruna]

Livonsk Circuit, Auruna

Miko just returned from the test. Although he was not chosen by Kaylan, he is still optimistic but for now, he needs some rest. At the Livonsk Circuit where Viska is doing their car reveal. Miko is currently watching a local autocross event with Artur.

"That's another team out of your list..." Artur says over the various engine noises at the circuit. "Damn... I don't think any team wants you."

Still watching, Miko responds. "Mate, don't be like that. There are other teams still looking for a driver. I may not be as good as the others but that's just how it is."

"Heh, I wish I had your calm positivity when I was racing."

"Anyway, I need to prepare for tomorrow's event here." As Miko prepares to leave.

"Oh right, the car reveal! Damn I almost forgot."

"I think you need more than just positivity. Heh, see you tomorrow." Miko now leaves, headed to his apartment.


Viska Garage, Livonsk, Auruna

The whole team is busy with preparations. Jöna is now helping the design team for the livery. Using the Viska colours of violet, black, and grey. They are designing the livery for the upcoming season.

"Do we have any sponsors?" A designer asks.

Jöna, just a bit distracted, responds with. "No." Then he turns his attention back to the design. "Yeah, no. We don't need any sponsors for now. So just use our colours in anyway you guys want but be sure to agree on the design, I don't want to see anyone arguing."

The designers are now working on the designs. Then a mechanic asks Jöna about the tires.

"It's finalized. We'll be working with In Motion for this season." Then Jöna continues to help the team.

For hours, the team worked tirelessly to get everything ready in time for the reveal.

A few more hours passed then... a sound of a V8 echoing in the garage. They are ready.

[Filindostan]

Ibuna-Gambal Racing Headquarters
Yogyakulta, Filindostan

24 hours before the Kimantara test, and Bryant Gambal's inbox seemed a bit empty. He had not seen new notifications in his email client regarding driver applications for the said test, other than the one sent for Dom Falapeau. It seems that the email contains additional information including his sponsors and funding information. With Kaylan accepting Solymok's recommendation for Barnabas Mate for the test, the first driver spot looks to be decided by the time the WGP2 paddock hits Willitya and the Diamond Bay Circuit for the pre-season test.

Gambal though wanted two cars and the final livery in the test, so they can assess if there are still any hitches in the car setup. With the recommendation of the team members, Bryant decided to cancel the Kimantara test, and offer Dom Falapeau the second driver seat at Badai Angin-IGR. That would save them money and time do the finishing touches in the car after finally passing the mandatory crash tests.

[Trans-Dniesters]

The sound of a WGP2 engine roared in the misty calm of the Myrilsk Testdrom, the private testing ground of UrGa's open-wheel racers. Engineer Konstantin Zakharovich Rezansov was monitoring the test car's progress throughout the test track in a room with a massive screen and consecutive rows of monitors and stations resembling that of Mission Control when team principal Vasily Semyonovich Gatutin walked in.

"Hello, Konstantin Zakharovich," Gatutin greeted. "How goes the, shall we say, on-track 'auditions'?"

"Well, we've got one guy on the track already," Rezansov replied, flipping through pages on a clipboard he held. "Lane Carter, from... TJUN-ia," he read out, stumbling over the nation name because that particular combination of letters was very rare in both Ukrainian and Russian semantics.

"Ah, marvellous," Gatutin nodded. "And what about the other drivers? Are they taking a break?"

Rezansov turned from the main monitor to Gatutin. "Other drivers?" he asked.

"Yes, the other drivers," Gatutin repeated. "Those drivers that came via our open invitation."

"Ah, well, that's the thing, sir," Rezansov said slowly. "There are no other drivers."

"What?" Now it was Gatutin's turn to face Rezansov. "What do you mean, there are no other drivers?"

"I mean exactly that, sir," Rezansov said. "There are no other drivers on the track apart from Mr. Carter."

"Wait, how is that possible?" Gatutin asked, shaking his head. "I thought we had sent out open invitations to all of the unaffiliated drivers as was agreed upon in last week's meeting?"

"Yes, sir, we did send out open invitations," Rezansov nodded, "but it appears that only Mr. Carter out of the dozens of available drivers have taken us up on our offer to try out our cars for size."

"Why, this is unbelievable," Gatutin grunted in disbelief. "We're only a few weeks away from the start of preseason testing, and while we've got more than enough drivers to choose from, only one actually turned up to show that they can drive for our team. Fantastic!" he shouted, shaking his head and attracting the attention of more than a few strategists and engineers.

"Sir, you have to understand that we are not the only team in WGP2 still lacking in drivers," Rezansov suggested. "I am sure that everyone is trying out for all of the other teams, and that soon we will have more drivers trying out for us. But for the meanwhile, we are gathering as much data as possible from Mr. Carter, which should come in handy should we decide to sign him."

"And what does the data say about him, Konstantin Zakharovich?" Gatutin asked.

"His driving style is very much like Taras Gavrilovich's, sir," Rezansov replied. "In fact, it's almost exactly like Taras Gavrilovich. Sure, he's a little bit more technical and a little less aggressive—if such a thing were even possible, to be less aggressive than Taras Gavrilovich—but in terms of reliability, Mr. Carter and Taras Gavrilovich are the same."

"Thoughts?" Gatutin asked.

"Oh, it's definitely too soon to say, sir," Rezansov shook his head. "I haven't seen enough of the other drivers to make a definitive statement about Mr. Carter. Should we sign him, sir, we think it would be best to give him the car that Taras Gavrilovich would have driven had we been able to keep him."

"Hmm," Gatutin mused. "It's definitely something to think about. We've definitely got a car that suits the fellow. Then again, there's still some time to go before the start of the season. I don't want to pull the trigger too quickly and miss out on a potentially better driver. No offense at all to this Mr. Carter, but I really want to get a better feel of the field before I cast the die, so to speak.

"Nevertheless, continue to keep touch with Carter," Gatutin continued. "He is definitely on our shortlist now. Maybe even set up something that gives us right of first refusal should another team try to scoop him up. You said it yourself; he drives almost exactly like Taras Gavrilovich, and we've already got a car with the perfect setup for him. This kind of thing happens only once in a million tries. Let's not let this one slip."

"Of course, sir," Rezansov nodded, and he made the appropriate notes on his clipboard.

"And didn't I hear the lad speak Russian? Or try to speak Russian when he arrived?"

"Yes, sir, that's correct," Rezansov said with a grin, revealing what he personally thought about his introduction to the TJUN-ia driver.

"Well then, offer him some Ukrainian to whatever language he speaks natively books. He'll need it. Hell, throw in some Russian books as well," Gatutin said.

Right at that moment, Gatutin's cellphone rang. "Gatutin," he said in greeting.

"Hello, Mr. Gatutin, it's Taras Gavrilovich. There's something that I would like to discuss. Can we talk about it in the usual place, sir?"

"Yes, Taras Gavrilovich, of course," Gatutin nodded, even though he knew that Taras Matviyenko couldn't see him from the other end of the call. He quickly arranged a meeting with Matviyenko, and then the team principal of UrGa Motorsports Division let out a deep sigh. Things just got a little bit more complicated than when he had walked into Mission Control.

[Savojarna]

SavojarSports.sj - inside reports from all Savojarna
SVJ Racing rejoins World Grand Prix 2

YARKOVO -- The participation of the state-funded Savojar team has been somewhat up in the air for a long time, but yesterday evening, SVJ Racing unveiled their new car on the Yarkovo International Circuit. While the design has not changed much optically, the power underneath the practically unchanged livery is almost completely reformed. The design team around Head Designer Prof. Dr. Pavel Suvchenko, a special research division of the National Technical University of Pawlograd, has abandoned all work on last year’s car mid season, which has led to the slightly disappointing results in the last year. For this year, however, it means a completely reformed chassis that has been reported to have returned great results in the pre-season test.

Suvchenko’s technical brief has unveiled the reported strengths of the design. The car is very stable in its tracks even when the road is twisty, a potentially important feature on a season littered with street tracks and otherwise technical circuits. The Savojar team has also focused on constructing an aerodynamically stable car, which has worked out well for them according to the report. In the wind tunnel, Suvchenko reported, results were stable across many different conditions, which makes the team hope for a consistent result throughout the season. A new aero package was announced to be pre-released at the first testing event, just in time for the second half of the season with its more high-speed tracks. One of the more questionable values so far is the wear on the tyres and the reliability of the car, as the design has been announced to be rather low on compromise.

The same thing can be said about the Johansborg Motor Collective GP.v2, the engine of the car. Producing about 470 kW of power, the engine employs the hybrid concept of the last year again, and has streamlined it further to improve its maximum power. The car employs two engines, a stronger ICE engine and an electric engine to power the car particularly in lower speeds and to provide extra acceleration. The power is distributed electronically, a system that has previously been a source of damage and worry, but has also proven to give significant improvements in handling. The “start mode”, which has been proven a success last year, has been implemented as well, using a special transmission and power distribution that is supposed to maximise acceleration on the first few metres. The JMC GP.v2 unit has been proven to be highly efficient, but somewhat vulnerable to technical defects. JMC representative Sven Myhrer has announced that the engine is supposed to be further developed until the WGPC season in order to be sold to other teams and/or employed in a potential SVJ Racing WGPC car.

The team retains much of its WGP2 Season 2 staff. Krister Arlund has rejoined as co-director of strategy, this time supported by NTUP data analyst Dr. Jari Silvennoinen. Management is primarily taken over by SARA again, but there is a different approach to the on-track support. While Juri Sandrajev remains the primary race engineer, the team has put together a squad of three track engineers, which all collaborate for strategy and on-track data. On the track, Roman Arjenko remains at the helms for the Savojar team as Number One driver, but the Number Two will feature a newer name: SVJ Racing unveiled the signing of Abdoulaye Goita of Reçueçn. Tyres will be supplied by Solymok, whose product has proven to be best at dealing with the forces produced by the radical design of the SVJ 2.

[Togonistan]

Kaylan Racing HQ
Tushlark, Togonistan

Tanielu Felafa entered the garage, where a bunch of mechanics were doing some finishing touches to the cars. He head to his lead mechanic and the men nod to each other.

''How's it going?''

''Great. Both cars should be good to go for the pre-season test. Working on some minor final touches right now.''

Tanielu smirked and handed over a bunch of stickers to Jared. ''Make sure to slap these on the 2nd car.''

Jared looked at what he has received and raised an eyebrow. ''I thought we gave the 2nd seat to Goita?''

''He decided to opt for SVJ, probably didn't like our terms or something. So, we signed Mate instead. Guy like him will be a valuable addition to us, I'm sure.''

Jared nod and handed the logos over to his mechanics crew, who applied them to the car. After 15 minutes, the work was done and both of the cars were there, ready to take on the pre-season test:

---

Tushlark International Airport
Tushlark, Togonistan

Dom Falepeau was sitting in the lobby, waiting for his flight to Filindostan. He had come to an agreement with Ibuna Gambal-IGR to be their driver for the season. As he was about to get himself a cup of coffee from the nearby kiosk, his flight got announced. He stood up and took a spot in the queue, ready to take on a new challenge.

[Filindostan]

Badai Angin-IGR confirms the signing of Rod Gozum and Dom Falepeau as drivers for this season. Barnabas Mate confirms signing for Kaylan.

RP to follow.

[TJUN-ia]

"Da, that went really well!"

Lane Carter enjoyed himself more than he thought he would in Trans-Dniesters. He certainly though he impressed UrGa, though it would be when your only guy there. Still, the engineer Konstantin thought it was "charming" that Lane introduced himself in an attempted version of Russian.

Their car was..actually nice to drive. The car he was testing was supposed to go to a guy named Taras, but it appeared Taras has quite similar to lane in terms of driving style. UrGa definitely noted that. Lane left the United Socialist States with not only the team's contacts, but language books in both Russian and Ukrainian.

"So, the socialists might be on the table..." he thought. He wasn't sure if UrGa would be his destination, but he knew someone out there (finally) had him on their radar.

Now, another test. This time with Adelphia-VMR, a team entirely run by ponies. "Russians and Ponies. Who would've thought...

[Recuecn]

Abdoulaye Goita was contented; very happy with himself. After months of waiting interspersed with failure and disappointment, struggling for a drive, he’d finally found a spot. The weight off his shoulders was immense. The mere knowledge that he had finally secured a contract was such a powerful change for him that he physically felt better–he woke up in the mornings with more energy, carried himself straighter, and moved as though his body was lighter.

The change of scenery was good for him too–Abdoulaye was looking forward to more sunlight here in the north. Just getting out of his dad’s house and having his own place felt great, as much because finally being independent was nice as because it felt good to be able to afford living on his own.

Most of all, he could finally get some practice driving a real WGP car. Any chance he could get, he was practicing, putting some more laps on the circuit. He was getting to know Yarkovo very well, but more importantly, he was starting to feel at home in the car; getting a feel for how it handled the corners, deciding which setups worked for him, discussing options with the engineers.

After his first practice, he was scheduled for a press conference with SavojarSports–his first interview as a professional racer! Abdoulaye was all smiles as he posed for some photos in his new racing suit and spoke a bit about his decision.

“I don’t need to mention that the big news for me is that I’ve decided to accept a contract for this WGP2 season with SVJ Racing. I’m super excited about it.”

“How’s the team?”

“Wonderful. I’ve been getting to know the engineers, the team history, the car, obviously… they’re all great.”

“How’s Roman?”

“I haven’t actually met him yet. He sounds like a great driver; super dedicated.”

“What about moving to Savojarna? How’s that? How’s the town?”

“I’m still adapting, but I think I’ll like it. I downloaded Russian and Savojarsk on Duolingo for whenever I have a couple free minutes so I can get to know some of the locals besides my teammates. So far the country’s really beautiful. Maybe I wish there were a bit more food options.”

“There was wide expectation that you would sign with Kaylan Racing Team. Why didn’t you take their offer?”

“I’m not quite sure, it was a spur of the moment decision. I was in talks with SVJ at that point already but hadn’t gotten an offer yet, so it wasn't very well thought-out in the moment, to be honest, but I’m happy with my choice and where I’ve wound up.”

“As a free agent, you didn’t have a driver number. Now that you have a team, are you ready to reveal that?”

“Yes! I’ll be driving as number 77, which goes very well with Arjenko’s #75. I’m kind of surprised no one’s taken it; it’s a very pretty number.”

"Are you ready for the test on Sunday?"

“I can't wait!”

[Somehow Related to Rarity]

Adelphia-VMR Test results

Lap 1
1 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:13.212
2 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:13.519
3 William Archer (AFT)  1:17.533
4 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:17.871

  Lap 2
1 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:17.172
2 William Archer (AFT)  1:18.987
3 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:24.972
4 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:25.075

  Lap 3
1 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:16.451
2 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:18.342
3 William Archer (AFT)  1:22.772
4 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:24.173

  Lap 4
1 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:11.309
2 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:11.567
3 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:16.563
4 William Archer (AFT)  1:18.072

  Lap 5
1 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:14.526
2 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:15.727
3 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:18.316
4 William Archer (AFT)  1:20.527

  Lap 6
1 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:12.505
2 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:14.267
3 William Archer (AFT)  1:21.807
4 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:24.863

  Lap 7
1 William Archer (AFT)  1:12.547
2 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:13.233
3 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:15.051
4 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:17.014

  Lap 8
1 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:09.300
2 William Archer (AFT)  1:13.878
3 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:19.113
4 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:21.089

  Lap 9
1 William Archer (AFT)  1:12.357
2 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:15.975
3 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:26.059
4 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:26.670

  Lap 10
1 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:14.983
2 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:23.008
3 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:24.410
4 William Archer (AFT)  1:25.273

1 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:09.300
 2 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:11.309
 3 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:11.567
 4 William Archer (AFT)  1:12.357
 5 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:12.505
 6 William Archer (AFT)  1:12.547
 7 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:13.212
 8 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:13.233
 9 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:13.519
10 William Archer (AFT)  1:13.878
11 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:14.267
12 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:14.526
13 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:14.983
14 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:15.051
15 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:15.727
16 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:15.975
17 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:16.451
18 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:16.563
19 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:17.014
20 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:17.172
21 William Archer (AFT)  1:17.533
22 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:17.871
23 William Archer (AFT)  1:18.072
24 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:18.316
25 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:18.342
26 William Archer (AFT)  1:18.987
27 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:19.113
28 William Archer (AFT)  1:20.527
29 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:21.089
30 William Archer (AFT)  1:21.807
31 William Archer (AFT)  1:22.772
32 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:23.008
33 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:24.173
34 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:24.410
35 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:24.863
36 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:24.972
37 Edward Baker (TKI)    1:25.075
38 William Archer (AFT)  1:25.273
39 Lane Carter (TJN)     1:26.059
40 Sara Luna (DCS)       1:26.670

Winter looked at the test results. He was having a hard choice choosing his options, because the results were a bit, erm, inconsistent.
Lane Carter seemed like a viable option. He had several first-places and his speed was consistent through out.
Sara Luna also looked like a good competitor. Though her last few laps weren't as good she still seemed like a good driver.
After thinking through it, Winter sent emails to both Lane Carter and Sara Luna. He would offer Lane Carter the second driver seat in Adelphia-VMR, and he would use Sara Luna as a backup in case Carter turned down the offer. Finally, the weight of choosing a second driver was over.

[Eastfield Lodge]

SinVal Motorsports Centre
Port Lodgertia, Eastfield Lodge

It was business as usual in the SinVal Motorsports division. Namely, chaotic and last-minute as ever. This time they had actually gotten the car designed and ready to go into production, and for once the delay wasn't their fault - funding was suddenly (and accidentally) cut off as the company went on some budget cutting exercises that were erroneously applied, and as such their order for the chassis parts were limited, and delayed as a result once funding was restored. And it was a car that Alaina Navarro was actually proud of, one that the team though could actually be competitive for the first time in a long while. But the delays meant that they only had a very limited testing window before the first official pre-season test. And that delay was reflected in their drivers. Namely, the lack of a second driver, or even the attempt to recruit one. Laurencia Lynds had already signed on as one of the drivers, even though her performance last season was lacking - Navarro thought the young Marepacian still had more to offer and was determined to draw that potential out of her. But there were so many options out there...

Another stumbling block was the lack of race-calibre tyres - Grafonil had decided to cut ties as part of the funding crisis, meaning that the team had very few WGP-spec tyres available to them, and needed to contact one of the many suppliers that had signed up to be the official suppliers of the WGP2 season. Diacresia's Phoenician Tires had contacted the team to offer their services, at a price as they weren't one of the three official suppliers, but the team hadn't come to a decision on it as yet. The issue was, of course, money - only Stellenbosch of the three official teams had tyres that suited the car, which as ever was a little low on power, having been set up to finish races and navigate corners well; on the other hand, there were reports that their compound was almost hilariously unreliable as racing tyres go. Tropicorp was a possible option, and one that seemed a fairly popular choice anyway, meaning there wasn't any particular advantage to selecting it, whilst Solymok just weren't suitable at all. The private suppliers were just as mixed - In Motion and Phoenician Tyres were almost as lopsided Stellenbosch's offering, whilst Cypress were a bit better suited as a compound compared to Tropicorp. But there was no overlooking the fact that Tropicorp were the most successful tyre manufacturer of the WGPC17 Championship. Decisions, decisions.

The track was quiet, early morning racing not allowed due to noise pollution limits, even with the sound-dissipating fences all around the track. The team were all in the garage, finally having a meeting to go through the driver list, and pick out any interesting names. Lynds wasn't around, thankfully, off in her own bubble back in Marepacia, but there was some discussion about whether to keep her on, and frankly, it got a little heated as there was clear division as to how people saw her potential. All the names currently on the free agents list were discussed, and the team were frankly surprised that both Cocoabo 23 and Jama'obo Pegasii were unsigned - in fact, the media scouts were as shocked as any to realise that no team had made any serious approaches to them. The Cocoabo would be an expensive signing, for sure, purely in terms of adapting the car and the team around it, but Pegasii, a proven racer in other disciplines and fully funded, would be a great option. There was also a message from a pair of Nimban drivers, in a message that seemed to imply that they came as a package - Olivia Stone and Baxen Aurora, who seemingly ruled the WGPi-series as a team, and going by some reports, SinVal could be a perfect destination. Another interesting option was the other Eastfielder entrant, a youngster called Lorcan Greanaya-Matthewson. Only 18, very raw, but already a rare talent in terms of composure and ability to control a race, and a tactical nous up there with the world's best. And then at the other end of the age scale, Sara Luna, a Diarcesian driver who had sent a message to the team, but there was little background on her.

After hours of deliberation, the team split off to send out their messages:

• SinVal will ask both Cocoabo 23 and Pegasii about signing on as a driver as first choice. Lynds and Lorcan will be backup options if one accepts, but if both reject, then SinVal will approach Stone/Aurora.
• SinVal will ask Tropicorp to supply the team's tyres.
• Laurencia Lynds will hold out for a SinVal seat first of all.
• Lorcan Greanaya-Matthewson applies to all available team slots

[TJUN-ia]

Lane Carter has a big decision to make.

The test for Adelphia-VMR went way better that expected. It wasn't even his best day, he honestly thought. He was inconsistent, full stop. However, on average, his times were faster that anyone else's. He also set the fastest time of the session, 2 seconds ahead of the nearest time.
That was deemed enough for the ponies to offer him the seat.

He should be jumping for joy: he was finally back in his adopted homeland AND he had an offer. His dream was done. Surely he should be happy...right?

Something felt off. It had to do with the previous test with UrGa. He wasn't sure how, but he felt more at home with their car. Sure Adelphia's was a great machine, but it feel...responsive at times. He had the job of this dreams lined up and ready, but he wasn't sure. The Ukrainians seemed more....favourable?

Lane knew now what to do. He sent an email to UrGa. He explained that another team wanted his services and if UrGa is still unsure of whether they need him or not they better make their minds up quickly. The situation is simple: if UrGa want's him, they can have him. If they don't, he will go to Adelphia instead. The Forgotten Galarian was now a hot commodity. "How the turntables...."

[Trans-Dniesters]

"So, Taras Gavrilovich, have you made your decision?"

"Yes, I have, Vasily Semyonovich," Taras Matviyenko said. "I've decided that I want to come to back to UrGa as your number one driver."

"Excellent decision, Taras Gavrilovich," Vasily Semyonovich Gatutin said, nodding his head. "Welcome back to the team. The car that we designed and set up just for you is still waiting for you in the garage."

"Well, that's a relief," Matviyenko sighed. "And here I thought that I was not going to get a seat in time for preseason testing."

"So what made you decide to come back to UrGa, Taras Gavrilovich?" Gatutin asked.

"To be honest, I'm not so sure myself," Matviyenko shrugged. "I was quite sure that I was going to get a seat in another team despite my, well, limited resume. I had hoped that my title win at the Coalition Grand Prix would be enough to get their attention. But no. Maybe I guess nobody's heard of the CGPRA. I wouldn't be surprised though. And I guess it is true what they say: you always find your way back home."

"And I have always told you, Taras Gavrilovich, that UrGa is and will always be your home," Gatutin said. "No matter where your career might end up taking you, UrGa is always there, waiting for you."

"I appreciate the sentiment, sir," Matviyenko nodded sheepishly. "But if you will have, I'd really like to get on with the seat fitting and testing."

"As you wish, Taras Gavrilovich," Gatutin nodded. "We can always sort out the contract details later."

"Spasibo, Vasily Semyonovich," Matviyenko said, then he stood up and left Gatutin's office. The UrGa Motorsports Division team principal leaned back in his chair and sighed. "Finally, one seat filled," he muttered. Now for the number two driver.

Gatutin hadn't planned on having a clear number one and number two driver for the season when he entered UrGa into WGP2, but now that Matviyenko was back in the fold there was just no way that Gatutin would not offer him number one status. That of course meant that the other driver who signed for UrGa would be number two. And Gatutin didn't know if there were any drivers left who would accept such terms.

There was always that driver who tested out their car a few days ago. What was his name again? Ah, yes, Lane Carter. Word had reached Gatutin that Adelphia-VMR was offering Carter a seat after having done well on their track tests. Gatutin decided to make his own offer to Carter, making it clear that, at least for the start of the season, he would be number two behind Matviyenko.

There were many ways that this could go. Carter may decide to go for Adelphia because it looked like they were offering him equal status there. On the other hand, Carter may decide to go to UrGa because his offered role there was quite clear. But it was all down to Lane Carter to decide. And if Carter decided to go to Adelphia... well, Gatutin would have to look for another driver again.

---

WGP2 wasn't exactly shaping up to be what William Archer expected.

As soon as he finally got his WGP2 license, William had been contacted by Adelphia-VMR Racing for a test drive. That was fun; William genuinely enjoyed putting their car through the paces out there. But after Adelphia, nothing else came his way. William waited and waited, but nothing came up after Adelphia's offer. And now he'd heard that Adelphia had chosen two other drivers ahead of him. "Well, this sucks," he muttered. At least Dad had a good showing at NSSCRA a few days ago. Coming from near the back of the field to finish 22nd was no mean feat, even for one Guillermo Archer.

William was watching replays of the NSSCRA Exhibition from Newmanistan when an email alert popped up on his phone. Nekoni's Polestar Racing was still looking for applicants. William Archer didn't really know where Nekoni was, but that wasn't something a quick Internet search couldn't fix. Time to take chances, he thought. What's the harm in him applying for Polestar Racing? The worst thing that could happen was that they won't take him, which means going back to square one. But William had been on square one for quite a long time already. He was just about getting used to it.

[Krainin]

Lugenburgh, Vestrad, The Krainin Isles

Edward is sitting in his chair reading a local newspaper.

BIG CHANGES FOR THE KRAININ ISLES

The Territory of Adrines, thanks to recent law changes, is going to be in a transition from a territory to a country in The Isles. The first meeting are expected to take place on 17 February 2020. The transition is expected to take three to six months depending on how talks in the Parliament go. (for more information please turn to page 6.)

Edward's phone goes off and he sees that it's his old racing friend, Michael Everson.

"Hey Michael, what's up?"

"Nothing much, what's up with you."

"Just reading the newspaper about the transition for Adrines. That's good for you, eh?"

"Yea. Hey listen, I heard you went to test for Adelophia-VMR. How'd it go?"

"Well, I was the third fastest car overall... out of four cars. I didn't get it."

"That sucks man. Any other teams you're looking at."

"All the one's I've been interested in have been filling up so quick. I'm afraid I won't get to race this year."

"Man, you don't need to worry. Remember that here, in the FRS F1, O'Sing Racing Inc. has signed you to a three season contract with the possibility for an extention, depending on your performance."

"Yes, I know. I joined the WGP2 so I could race in the off season. Before O'Sing was kind enough to me, it seemed like my days in the FRS F1 were done."

"Dude, don't give up. I sure there's a team that'll take you, despite your age."

"Yea, thanks for the talk. Look, I'm going to go through my remaining options and send a few emails."

"Alight, man, talk to you later, bye."

"Bye." Edward hangs up his phone and goes to his computer. He looks at the remaining teams before writing some emails.

To: VTM Tropicorp Engineering
From: bakeredwards1976@islesmail.tki

I'm interested in rejoining VTM and continuing off where we were last season. I hope you consider my offer.

Signed,
Edward Baker

To: Bitten Heros Academy
From: bakeredwards1976@islesmail.tki

I'm interested in joining Bitten Heros as the second driver. I hope you consider my offer.

Signed,
Edward Baker

To: Polestar Racing
From: bakeredwards1976@islesmail.tki

I'm interested in joining Polestar as the second driver. I hope you consider my offer.

Signed,
Edward Baker

To: US Navy
From: bakeredwards1976@islesmail.tki

I'm interested in joining US Navy a a driver for the season. I hope you consider my offer.

Signed,
Edward Baker

[Auruna]

Livonsk Circuit, Livonsk, Auruna

The new car is unveiled to the public for the first time. It has a unique livery, using the colours of Viska racing and the national racing colour of Auruna which is violet. During the event, it is sent out on to the circuit and driven by former Viska driver Riku Varkanne. It looks like a promising start for a small team in the international stage but will they be competitive enough.

The event was also attended by some drivers, including Miko Kaukanna. And since attendance is free, the venue is packed with motorsport fans and enthusiasts.

Schkeska-VSK Viska VL-01A

Specs
Chassis
Construction: Carbon-fibre and honeycomb composite structure
Gearbox: 7-speed seamless semi-automatic paddle shift sport gearbox
Clutch: Multi-plate carbon clutch
Clutch operation: Hand-paddle behind steering wheel below gear shift paddle
Weight: 601 kg (dry weight) / 671 kg (including driver, excluding fuel)
Tires: ???
Brakes: 6-piston (front and rear) carbon callipers, carbon discs and pads
Steering wheel: Carbon-fibre material bespoke steering wheel with multiple buttons and paddles.
Safety equipment: 6-point seatbelt, HANS device

Engine
Manufacturer: Schkeska Motors
Name: Schkeska LKV-30N-670
Displacement: 3.0L
Configuration: Flatplane V8
Valvetrain: DOHC, 24-valve
Fuel injection: Direct fuel injection
Aspiration: Naturally aspirated
Power output: 670hp
Torque: Approx. ~350 N⋅m
Maximum revs: 11200 rpm
Lubrication: Dry sump
Cooling: Single water pump
Ignition: High energy inductive (laptop/coil controlled)

In an interview with team manager, Jöna Ekeränna. He was asked about the team's competitiveness and the car, and where would he expect the team to finish in races and in the constructors' championship.

"We will be decently competitive. We have the car, the right team working on it and if we have the right drivers, we might be able to pull off some podiums. We hope to surprise throughout the season. Do not expect us to finish high but who knows? We might be in the midfield or even lead the midfield.

There are some tracks that suit the car and there are some that suit the driver. We hope to get the formula right and reach high. This is our first time in this series so we need to get familiar with it before we go all out."

[Former Citizens of the Nimbus System]

Simon Baker Lodgings, University of the Second City, the Second City, the Nexus Wardship of Former Citizens of the Nimbus System
6th of February

“Nothing from anyone else?”

“Not yet.” A trio of pens whirls at the side of Baxen’s head, glowing blue, as he glances to one side at the monitor. “The others appear to be biding their time… Either that or they have other drivers lined up.”

Olivia’s nose wrinkles, her legs waving back and forth over the edge of the bunk. “Really? At this stage?”

“Well, the management work for this season went unexpectedly quickly, if the rumours are to be believed…” Baxen nudges the base of his chair with his foot, pushing him round to face his companion. The pens glide into a nearby mug. “So. Viska?”

“You think we can learn Auran that fast?” Olivia smirks. “I’m doing sports science and you’re doing statistics; we’re hardly linguists.”

“‘Aurun’ – and no need; Universal-as-English is commonly spoken there as a second language,” Baxen answers, running his fingers down in a wave as he places them upon his lap. “Shall we go over the reasoning again before we come to a decision?”

“They’re established in motorsport, so they know what they’re doing, but they haven’t done anything in WGP racing, meaning that we’ll be able to influence their operations as they build a presence. You’ve explained,” Olivia concludes, a note of friendly exasperation in her voice that gives way to concern as she adds, “Still don’t like that they’re using combustion for power, though…”

She raises a hand to forestall the objection. “I know, that’s being taken care of for this season and our impact on Auruna’s market for electric vehicles can only be positive. Baxen, even if we hadn’t gone through it already, I trust you.” Olivia Stone smiles, tilting her head slightly. “You’ve already made up your mind on this and I’m not one to disagree with it.”

Baxen blinks. Then he nods and, somewhat robotically, he turns to type out a message. “Alright, then. Should Viska want us, we commit.”

In Motion Workshop, Celina Community, the First City, the Nexus Wardship of Former Citizens of the Nimbus System

“We can’t commit to this. You know that.”

The Specks, co-owners and co-founders of In Motion, stare at the monitor. Upon it lies a request for tyres from one ‘Schkeska-VSK Viska Racing’.

Tyres that they don’t have.

Celia looks up at her wife’s solemn visage, eyes pleading. “Come on, Grace – we have to try something. These people are reliant on us now; who knows whether they’re going to be able to find another tyre supplier by this stage?”

She turns to meet her eyes. “Celia, Imagination I love this side of you, but we’re a business first. We can’t jeopardise our partnership with Nexus Racing. Viska can still sign on with one of the official suppliers.”

“Then think of the market! Auruna like their cars, right? There is undoubtedly an opportunity to sell bespoke performance tyres there – if we supply the apex Aurun team, that would be brilliant advertising!”

“That is true…” Grace finally shakes her head. “But not if our tyres don’t work on their car. We haven’t tested them on anything but the UHSGV-4 – we designed them around it. We have no way of knowing how they’d perform on a more conventional vehicle.”

“Are you done?” The gruff voice of Petra Nikolic calls from the back of the room, where the woman leans against the walls, arms folded. “Listen, you’ve already shrunk the tyres down to the size the rest of the field uses and we know the camber principles work on regular setups. All we need to do is redesign the outer shoulder for the same composition as the inner shoulder. As for testing?” She chuckles. “You know that little event in Willitya that’s coming up soon? Honestly, Gertrude’d probably appreciate the extra data – during the season, too.”

Celia frowns. “I dislike compromising like that…” Slowly, though, she begins to nod. “But it does seem to preserve most of the best of all worlds. And besides,” she continues, eyes growing steely with determination, “if we work hard, we can optimise them further!”

Grace’s eyes take on a softer aspect at that. “Ah, that makes just about enough sense. I’ll send notice to Nexus Racing before we properly confirm it. Unless we receive further notice, though, let’s get to work on some tyres for Viska.”