WGPC :: World Grand Prix Championship 19 [COMPLETE]

[Filindostan]

Jakulta International Raceway
Jakulta, Filindostan

The team went back from a disappointing second test in Diarcesia with only AK Lacsamana participating in the test. Rusty was in Newmanistan, being busy with his NSSCRA team as he applied for an open charter to race there, and the team was pressed to hold another private test after Sara Luna decided to accept the offer from Tropicorp Racing Aelund to pair up with iBen Toralmintii for the defending constructors' champions.

Tauro and Pamelita invited four other drivers to take part, however, learning that Dario Nuelkeschlaeger already signed for PB-Viska for the season, they thought that it would only be between three drivers who they will be selecting. However, with a late application from Cocoabo #23, Tauro thought that more choices would be better, he asked several of the team's engineers to adjust the car to meet the needs of the Cocoabo which had certain parts of the car modified to suit the driver's needs.

The four candidates arrived in Jakulta to meet the team managers, Tauro, and Pamelita, and they had a fifteen-minute interview each to the drivers prior to the first test sessions.

BADAI ANGIN TIM MOTORSPORT
PRIVATE DRIVER TEST #2

Itinerary
DAY 1

Morning session: FREE PRACTICE
- Drivers will drive the BAP003 car around the Jakulta International Raceway for sixty minutes for the grand prix (full) circuit configuration, and 45 minutes each for the other two configurations.
- Times will not be recorded officially and will not be considered for determining the driver who will receive the offer.

Afternoon session: FLYING LAPS
- Each driver will run five straight flying laps for each configuration. The fastest lap of each driver will be taken noted and will be sorted by fastest lap.
- The driver with the fastest lap will score 5 points for each configuration, then 3, then 2, and then 1.
- The combined time will also be sorted by fastest time, with the same point distribution.

DAY 2
Morning session: QUALIFYING SIMULATION
- Each driver will be on a simulator to set the qualifying time for the grand prix layout.
- Fastest time of each will be noted, and sorted by fastest time.
- Same point distribution as previous sessions.

Afternoon session: RACE SIMULATION
- The race will be set for 150 km.
- First place score 10 points, second with 6 points, third with 4 points, and fourth with 2 points.

Day 1
Conditions:
Morning: Dry
Afternoon: Dry

A Track
23 C23  00:58.594  5
        00:58.644
        00:58.714
        00:58.717
        00:58.798

27 KRU  00:58.595  3
        00:58.605 
        00:58.704
        00:58.736
        00:58.776

19 FAL  00:58.616  2
        00:58.632
        00:58.651
        00:58.758
        00:58.770
 
 7 DEV  00:58.620  1
        00:58.634
        00:58.650
        00:58.680
        00:58.793

Total Times
1  7 DEV  04:53.377  5
2 27 KRU  04:53.416  3
3 19 FAL  04:53.427  2
4 23 C23  04:53.467  1

T Track
23 C23  01:20.309 5
        01:20.334
        01:20.382
        01:20.389
        01:20.546

27 KRU  01:20.350 3
        01:20.375
        01:20.443 
        01:20.459
        01:20.553

 7 DEV  01:20.354 2
        01:20.365
        01:20.556
        01:20.647
        01:20.658
 
19 FAL  01:20.376 1
        01:20.379
        01:20.385
        01:20.540
        01:20.755

Total Times
 1 23 C23  06:41.960 5
 2 27 KRU  06:42.180 3
 3 19 FAL  06:42.435 2
 4  7 DEV  06:42.580 1

Full Track
23 C23  01:44.562 5
        01:44.575 
        01:44.604
        01:44.647
        01:46.256

19 FAL  01:44.582 3
        01:44.607
        01:44.638
        01:44.867
        01:44.914
 
27 KRU  01:44.590 2
        01:44.691
        01:45.084
        01:45.123
        01:45.935

 7 DEV  01:44.602 1
        01:44.609
        01:44.620
        01:44.660
        01:45.830

Total Times
 1 19 FAL  08:43.608 5
 3  7 DEV  08:44.321 3
 4 23 C23  08:44.644 2
 2 27 KRU  08:45.424 1

Day 1 Standings                                        
 1 23 C23  5  1  5  5  5  2  23 
 2 19 FAL  2  2  1  2  3  5  15
 2 27 KRU  3  3  3  3  2  1  15
 3  7 DEV  1  5  2  1  1  3  13

Day 2: Qualifying

Conditions:      	Dry
Lap Record:      	00:01:36.625
Qualifying Type:	Traditional
Nation:         	FID
Circuit:        	Jakulta International Raceway

POS # ▍DRIVER                           	FASTEST LAP	GAP TO LEADER
 1 19 ▍Dom Falepeau                     	00:01:38.707	00:00:00.000 5
 2  7 ▍Anneliese Devereux               	00:01:38.724	00:00:00.018 3
 3 27 ▍Gregori Krupin                   	00:01:39.292	00:00:00.585 2
 4 23 ▍Cocoabo #23                      	00:01:39.342	00:00:00.636 1

Day 2: Race

Conditions:      	Dry
Laps:              	27
Nation:         	FID
Circuit:        	Jakulta International Raceway
Event:	Private Driver Test - Full Track
Safety Car Deployed on Laps:	
Cars on Grid:	4

POS # ▍DRV Name                      Team                            Time          Pts
 1 19 ▍FAL Dom Falepeau              Badai Angin Tim Motorsport      01:01:13.37    10
 2  7 ▍DEV Anneliese Devereux        Badai Angin Tim Motorsport      01:02:31.41     6
 3 23 ▍C23 Cocoabo #23               Badai Angin Tim Motorsport      01:03:37.86     4
 4 27 ▍KRU Gregori Krupin            Badai Angin Tim Motorsport      01:03:54.11     2

Day 2 Standings                                        
 1 19 FAL  15  5 10  30 
 2 23 C23  23  1  4  28
 3  7 DEV  13  3  6  22
 2 27 KRU  15  2  2  19

Based from the results of the two-day test, Badai Angin Tim Motorsport offers its second seat to Dom Falepeau, with Cocoabo #23 a fallback option in case the former accepts a move elsewhere.
Tauro and Pamelita hope to receive the response from the Togoni driver prior to the final test in Tumbra.

[Vilita and Turori]

Race Eelandii Headquarters, Eelandii, Turori :: Juracai Klianiota and Intoreil Palmsti'i sat in the conference room overlooking the paddock at the Eelandii Grand Prix Course where the AOCAR Grand Prix circuit was on track for the first time, conducting their pre-season testat the Turorian circuit.

Klianiota and Palmsti'i were preparing to host drivers at their facility for a test in the Race Eelandii simulator in order to help decide who Lane Carter's partner for the upcoming World Grand Prix campaign would be. While Palmsti'i noted that Carter seemed to get along well with test driver Daryl Mizushima, Daryl's speed at the Pre-Season test event at the Elbej Historic Site in Diarcesia left something to be desired. The Squidroidian was one of the few drivers to get slower from Session #1 to Session #2 though it was evident that Palmsti'i's experiments in the second session were not going to plan as Carter and Mizushima finished as the slowest drivers on course. With a goal of improving on their placement in the overall constructors title, the duo figured they would have to go for a driver who finished higher in the standings the season before - someone like Erica Okumura, Gregori Krupin, Sayona Souzare or Dom Falepeau.

Then they received word from a Tropicorp Engineer that Badai Angin Time was planning to offer Falepeau their second driver seat. Though Palmsti'i and Klianiota had been set to wait for the results of the simulator test only two drivers - Krupin and TJUN-ia's Batu Tüvshinbayar had confirmed thus far their participation. Additionally, if the team that finished second place in the constructor standings for the 18th World Grand Prix Championship season thought that Falepeau was the right choice among the six remaining options in the WGPC License pool, then surely Falepeau was going to be the target for Race Eelandii. Having talked themselves into a severe case of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), Palmsti'i and Klianiota decided to write up paperwork to offer Race Eelandii's second seat to Dom Falepeau of Togonistan, doing so under the table by reaching back out through Mareta Loferi. While Falepeau had struggled somewhat in their debut WGPC campaign, if their career in World Grand Prix 2 was anything to go off of Falepeau regularly improves over time as they get more experience at a certain level of motorsports after having finished 22ndi n World Grand Prix Two Season 1, 11th and World Grand Prix Championship Season 2.

Of course there was still the matter of the simulator event which would go on as plan regardless of Falepeau's response though the team were trying to get their second driver slot sorted out before the final pre-season test event in Tumbra. Having sorted out a short-term course of action on their most pressing need, Klianiota and Palmsti'i turned their attention back to the track where the first AGOP Practice Session was wrapping up. All together there were fifteen cars on track from 10 different teams with a number of race teams having only secured one driver thus far.

At the top of the board was Nick Unger driving for Baker Park's Orange Cow Racing with Marfield Racing's Jeff Carver close behind. As the day went on, the teams would have a second practice session in slightly different post-lunch driving conditions and here it was Asuna Katsu of KISMO by Katana Racing from Aji No Moto at the top of the charts but Abovia Per-Gunna Kristiansen - a gold medalist at the AOlympic Games in the Atlantian Oceania Motorsports Championships - would be the star of the day placing top 3 in both sessions in the lone entry for Ælund CMYK GP.

[Togonistan]

DF Racing Headquarters
Edrana, Togonistan

It felt like it was only yesterday when Dom Falepeau had bought that old warehouse building at the outskirts of Edrana. Worn out walls with worn out yellow paint on them and graffiti covering the big iron doors back then were now covered up by thick layers of sleek dark green paint. Ever since Dom had acquired the building, it had become the headquarters for his very own racing team, DF Racing Élégamment. After all, the early days of his career had been filled with driving in Togonistani domestic touring car series. Or, Togonistan Track Racing League, to put it correctly. This was were he had started his journey as a driver and spent five seasons. Five seasons, with his last one seeing him crowned as the vice champion of the series before shifting his eyes into the world of open-seaters instead. Last year, along with making a step up to WGPC in his personal driving career, Dom had also dedicated some time to bring his own branded team on the TTRL grid. With a Natanyan driver Sasha Thornsk being paired up with a young homeboy driver James Russell, the team had a solid maiden season and finished 5th in the standings.

Small group of mechanics were currently working on a Kaylan Malaga RS, the spec car of TTRL series, when Dom walked in and greeted them. While the daily operations of DF Racing were run by team chief Timo Karauna, Dom made sure to make regular visits in order to see what the team was up to. Normally, the ever so chatty Dom would've stood around a bit and had some good banter with the mechanics, but not right now. In fact, Dom quickly walked upstairs and entered his office instead. The reason Dom had even come to the HQ at all was simply because Mr. Karauna had called him and said there would be some sort of paperwork that needed his signature. Dom had asked him to kindly leave it all in his office, saying he'd drop by and go through them.

Having sat down, it took about ten minutes for Dom to go through the paperwork and slap his signature on the dotted line. With his duty here done, he could've just stood up again and walk out. However, Dom stacked the papers into a small pile and placed them on the corner of his desk, sighed and simply sat there, staring at the computer screen in front of him. Last night, once had made it back home from the Badai Angin trials, Dom had a hard time finding sleep with his head full of thoughts. Indeed, after the two-day trials in Filindostan, Badai Angin Tim had offered him a seat for the upcoming season of WGPC. If the circumstances were different, he probably would've accepted it without hesitation. After all, his time with the Badai Angin-IGR outfit during the third season of WGP2 had been what allowed him to make his break into WGPC, after he had finished the season on 4th place. Dom was familiar with the Badai Angin design language, the TT02 he had driven back then had been like a wild tiger. Aggressive on throttle and acting like a wild beast that had to be tamed. It had suited him quite well and the new BAP003 he had driven during the trials seemed to share a lot of characteristics with the TT02.

However, the very morning Dom had returned, Mareta had called him to give an update on the situation regarding Eelandii VTGP. It turned out that they also were interested in securing his services for the upcoming season. At first, there had been an invite for a simulator test, which Dom had temporarily put on hold with intentions to get back to it once he was done with the Badai Angin test. However, by now, Eelandii seemed to have changed their mind and given him an offer, take it or leave it. While Dom shared less history with Eelandii than he did with Badai Angin, the Turorian outfit was still a tempting choice. While Eelandii was often compared to TRÆ and seen by many simply as ''that other Tropicorp team on the grid'' it was a strong midfield team and allowed Lane Carter to have a more than decent rookie season last year. When it came to Dom's career in open-seaters, an interesting pattern went through his history. After his WGP2 debut with Junixwagen, Dom had taken a seat in MRT2 for the following season. Then, he had moved to Badai Angin-IGR, from where he moved into WGPC with MRT once again. Like a ping-pong ball bouncing between the two outfits, moving back to Badai Angin would keep that pattern going. Or, maybe it would be time to break that pattern? Badai Angin offered him a somewhat familiar work environment, while Eelandii would offer a fresh start in a new team. Badai Angin would provide a decent package with BAP003, while pressure would most likely be high on him to deliver after Alex Dimitrianov's retirement. While he had no idea about the car Eelandii will be running, it could provide him, perhaps, a little bit more lax environment where he could take more time to get to grips with things. After all, there had been a lot of hype surrounding MRT last season and a lot of expectations on him, on which he had failed to deliver. Maybe, just maybe, a change that Eelandii would bring could be what he needed.

Dom rest his head on his knuckles as that thought process took place. He had to make a decision and he had to make it sooner, rather than later. Tapping his foot on the floor, Dom eventually turned on the computer in front of him and started sending out e-mails. He had made his decision.

From: Dom Falepeau <dom@df-racing.tn>
To: Tauro Volante
Topic: Badai Angin Tim contract offer

Hello Tauro!

Once again, thank you for letting me test out the BAP003. I have taken my time to consider your offer and have decided to accept the seat in Badai Angin Tim for the upcoming season of WGPC. Due to my current schedule, I hope it's okay if I meet up with the team in Tumbra for the pre-season test and we can start working together from there on.

I shall see you soon.

Dom Falepeau

From: Dom Falepeau <dom@df-racing.tn>
To: Intoreil Palmsti'i <ipalmstii@raceeelandii.tur>
Topic: Race Eelandii VTGP contract offer

Greetings!

Thank you for getting in touch with Mareta and sending your offer regarding my seat for the upcoming season. I took my time to consider the offers I have received and, with a heavy heart, I have to let you know that I'm forced to decline the seat in Race Eelandii VTGP. I'm honoured that you were ready to give me that opportunity, but at the given time, I have signed a contract with a different team.

Yours Sincerely,

Dom Falepeau

PS: Send my regards to Lane, I will be happy to see him on the paddock again.

[Chromatika]

"What happened out there?"

It was an innocuous question from a concerned friend, after a subpar showing in the second event of the year.

Vladimir and Wrench had decided to test a few things while taking part in the second test; namely, to stress the limits by leaning into the turns, letting up others, and ultimately trying to make the car drive itself in stretches. It had gone according to plan in the first test, with Wrench finishing .251 seconds behind the leader, a solid showing.

Then, in the second, the field had caught up, and Anola was slightly slower.

It wasn't the results on the track that concerned Scarlett. It was Anola's demeanor coming out of the vehicle. She had barely said a word to Vladimir before storming off the track.

Now, it was a half hour later, and they were about to go into post-race briefing with Vladimir. Scarlett had taken the time to take Anola aside.

"Sorry, I lost my head for a second," admitted Anola, a faraway look in her eye, "It just hit me at the end of the lap and I didn't know what to do except be angry."

"It?" inquired Scarlett, reaching out to hold Wrench's hand, "What is 'it'? What can be so stressing that it made you snap like that?"

Anola sighed.

"I guess there is no point in trying to hide it from those closest to me," she whispered, "But I want Vladimir there too, and I don't want it spreading unless it becomes an active problem."

That was how the two of them ended up with Vladimir five minutes later. Anola had apologized, and Vladimir took it in stride; he knew that emotions could run high in the middle of racing, though it was strange for the Chromatik to show such emotion.

"What I'm about to tell you is secret," Anola said, almost pleadingly, "Can I get you to promise?"

"I promise as long as it's nothing that's going to harm you," acquiesced Scarlett.

Vladimiar looked at Wrench for a second before nodding slowly, "Unless it's something that will put your health or the team in jeopardy, sure."

Anola pondered for a minute, than nodded apologetically. That was fair enough.

"Right. So I was making the final turn, and I know we were stress testing, but when I made the final sharp turn, my elbow hurt again. It wasn't as bad as when it was torn, nor was it as bad as the times during rehab when I pushed it too far, but it was the first time since the surgery, and it scared the crap out of me."

Vladimir and Scarlett took the news in stride, and it was Vladimir that spoke first.

"What did your physical therapist and surgeon say about relapsing or the issue coming back?"

"They said that I should monitor and report back if something were to happen, but that it wasn't likely," Wrench answered, "I guess I had just hoped that it wouldn't be such a problem so soon."

"Nothing you can do about that," reminded Scarlett, "We were stress testing. You won't have to make that sharp of a turn very often, and as long as we keep tabs on it, you should be fine."

Vladmir nodded in agreement. "Nothing to do unless it becomes a pattern," he intoned, "We don't change anything, but if it becomes a problem, you have to let us know, all right?"

Anola agreed, and the three started to plan for contingencies.

It was going to be all right.

[Diarcesia]

Elbej Historic Site Circuit
Almur, Diarcesia
Pre-Season Test Two

As usual, Aldauren Ginintella takes his serving of tewe steaks from the catering table. After he is done, he signals Sam Blaatschapen, the new PB test driver, that it is her turn to get some.

"Unbelievable, the steak's almost gone," says Sam.

"It's very popular," answers Aldauren. "Really, they served a little less than I expect... and then again," he pauses for dramatic effect, "we were very late to arrive."

Sam has cleared the tewe steak container by the time Aldauren finishes speaking. The two of them move to the next station. "Do you know where Sara is?"

"At the museum. TRÆ is having their livery reveal there."

"Oh."

"Yes," the elf nods in acknowledgement.

The two of them get some more food in silence, and then Aldauren resumes the conversation. "About your WGP2 seat, we are still hard at work finding a place for you."

"Thank you."

By this time, they leave the catering station for their table, satisfied that they have the food they need. "You're welcome. But in the meantime, we have three cars ready for the test. One for Laura, another for Dario, and another for you. If we can field three drivers, we would have you chosen as well. It is a tough choice."

For Sam, it is a bitter pill to swallow, but she understands. The supply WGPC spots falls well short of the demand. "I admit I have been a little anxious after White Unicorns wasn't able to make it to WGP2. But I'll do all that's asked in the test later!"

"You have the opportunity to do some laps of our car."

"I'll take it. During your evaluation of me, I am still a little surprised about the car's grip and agility, the overall package."

"Here's wishing you find our car amazing. Of cours, our partners at Viska have plenty of input in the making of it. We used a lot of resources to build them, and I don't want to just see them languishing behind the competition. You're aware of this, but since today is not a race, all we need to do is to know that our cars are working as good as it could. Things like engine settings, downforce, oversteer, and others."

Sam nods in understanding. "The team is now in the same league as the legendary Tropicorp Racing Ælund and Carvenlo."

"Their cars are very competitive, as seen in the constructors' championships they collectively hold. I admit I am ambitious, that I want to have one of these, too."

"That is why I will, for the moment, try to be the perfect test driver," Sam responds before taking a bite of her food. She looks around, seeing if Dario or Laura is there. "I'm sure your drivers are similarly motivated. Tell you what, give me a setup that is very different from what they will use."

"Not a bad idea. I have talked with Laura's race engineer that she will focus on race pace. She seems to like this place very much."

"Well you guys won there first!"

"I know."

The PryForceOne-C (PF-1C) as seen this week. Livery concept by Valkea

The morale of everyone in Pryfors Bilar is very high that they will get much data this week. They know the track, where downforce is king, like the back of their hand. Laura is focused on overall race pace, Dario's aero and engine are all in qualifying trim, and as Sam suggested, her car is actually more suited for a power track. She is tasked to help ascertain the acceleration and top speed parameters of the PF-1C.

---

In a short period of time, Luna is clocking increasingly-faster laps around the Elbej Historic Site Circuit with Tabetha. She had paid a great deal of attention to the quality of her drive, and she feels confident in her newfound eagerness on the throttle: this is something she determined that the TRÆ car requires to be as predictable as possible. The past fortnight or so, her focus had been to find a perfect pairing between a certain car and driving style. The time she spent in her home simulator during the offseason allowed her to gain a better understanding of the different open-wheel cars' capabilities and potential.

"That's a very good run, Sara." Agreka, her race engineer, asked as the first of the two test sessions drew to a close.

"Really?"

"You got the fastest lap. That is a very high benchmark you set for yourself."

"Aha, thank you. Perhaps it is a testament to the car's abilities! How much data did you get?"

"More than enough. Appreciate it."

In the second session, her program was for the team to verify how well their high-downforce setups work with the AGP004. Throughout the duration, her lap times did not differ much, and at the end, she was sixth at the timings table, a millisecond slower versus the first session. In the meantime, she caught a glimpse of Dario Nülkeschläger's PB car, in particular, what was in the rear wing that is not called "Sidus". Really, Shit 'n bricks? Is Aldauren trying to build swagger with his team? she thought. Preston with their "Get Good" shtick was already eye-catching enough. Perhaps this is his way of continuing their friendly rivalry. PB recently had been unabashed with their aspirations for a constructors' championship, to the point that they somehow convinced one of the big names of Astyrian Formula One, Sidus, to provide them engines. It was a win-win situation for the two companies. It was part of a gentleman's agreement between the big three Diarcesian car companies (Metacinesis, Executive, and PB) to keep their noses out of each others' business in motorsport. But with Sidus recently setting up shop in Diarcesia with a network of dealerships and a factory, PB found a way to kickstart their WGPC program.

At the team briefing, Sara took note of iBen's time and concluded that her teammate might have encountered difficulties with his car and the environment in Elbej. This place is notoriously hot for a grand prix race, something that she was no stranger of going back to her WGP3 days. The test driver, Skiia Vialiv, was able to exceed her time in the second run, probably using a higher engine mode among other things. Nonetheless, this impressed Sara. Skiia adjusted to a WGPC car in no time and the veteran could feel that she was looking to the future of TRÆ. As for her, she was feeling more comfortable with the car. It was more or less similar to the feedback she received in her simulator.

She found the team mood to be good. Edvin's animated expressions was not something Sara would behave herself, but she recognized how he was passionate towards their success. At least, in that respect, she felt a connection with him, and through him, the entire project. It could be used to empower her own desire for a driver's championship. Edvin told her that she and iBen are free to race one another. Who gets the favorable strategies would boil down to who gets the more points during the season. She would push hard to be that person, but she would be careful that it doesn't come at the cost of TRÆ missing out on a consecutive constructors' star in a season where Kaylan, TMW, and Preston look formidable.

[Aboveland]

Elbej Historic Site Circuit
Almur, Diarcesia

Edvin, his chin posed on his thumb and index fingers, grins slowly as the timing screens update, and WGPC debutant Skiia Vialiv climbs to fourth on the overall list. The order of the day, after a conservative, single-car test session in Togonistan, had been straightforward: flat-out, to set a performance benchmark.

Setting aside the local cars of Dario Nülkeschlager and Laura Haukkana — and even without doing that, too — Edvin is pleased. TRÆ's three car onslaught, so far, seemed to be working.

As they should, he muttered, nodding with a smirk. As we should.

---

He's overthinking. He knows he's overthinking, and he hasn't thought this much behind the wheel for years. He also, for a long time, hadn't outright sucked at driving until the previous testing session. While R.L. slotted in fifth by the end of the run, he'd only managed an embarrassing twentieth, almost a second off the pace — and that was on one of his only clean runs, with his driving throughout the first two hours, as Antti put it, "made you look like a baby deer on roller skates — on ice."

He's always been naturally reticent to change — for as long as he can remember. Reticent (and sometimes, actively resistant) to stepping out of his comfort zone. Those growing pains — and that same sensation of the lump in his throat and the thump in his chest and the tickle in his underams — had been there in his ice-racing to circuit academy transition, in his domestic racing to Chase Cutter move — and even with his Nexus Racing to Garage Gunners foray. And he hated that he wasn't as malleable as everyone else, that he couldn't just... make things work quickly, or move on from the past. He'd confided his worries — at least, track related — to Antti, and vented about his growing pains every time they'd reared their ugly head. The answer was always the same "don't bring yourself down, you're strong," he'd say, which never did more than just frustrate him further. But there was really... nobody else he could talk to about it. Antti, as brick-wall as his advice inevitably was, had always been his only outlet, and he had to take what he could get.

Testing at Elbej, as he'd told Portland when he'd arrived at the track, would be a great opportunity for him to "learn the car." He'd won the sprint race the last time he'd been here, perhaps against some odds — but after much bemoaning his Chase Cutter's cumbersome eight wheels for such a varicose track, he'd finally dialed in the setup — and his head — to perfection, storming to a win with a fastest lap. Banking on his head still remaining dialed into the track — a circuit he'd enjoyed far more than he thought he would have, no doubt influenced by his success — his second official test was supposed to be an optimal chance to recalibrate his senses.

Maybe the session one tumble was part of the process: character building through hardship or whatever. But being so far off the pace, and ruining so many sets of brand new tyres in front of his new employers, had been fucking dire: and all down to the fact that the Carvenlo machine was so radically different[i] to the Chase Cutter. At least, that was the official excuse he'd come up with for Antti, which he must have relayed on to the team: "just growing pains, is all," he probably said.

But [i]every single corner was an ordeal in the first three hours of his test day.

The problem with the Chase Cutter, at least at the beginning, was that it did far too much for him, stopping just short of automatically dispensing drink in his mouth. Getting used to the driver aids was the biggest hurdle — which took him two years to clear. By season three, things had begun to click for good, and with his eyes opened, the driving had begun to "come naturally" as Antti had said. The Nimban machine, despite its eight oblong tyres (a geometric change which, even though he'd been marred by the driver aids at the start of his Nexus career, also took some getting used to. The four-wheeled, round-tyred Chase Cutters were light, nimble and, being four-wheel drive, could take a good amount of yaw before things started to get hairy. The oblong In Motion tyres designed to improve cornering helped in the faster sections, but hampered him in the lower speed corners like those at Elbej) was extremely flexible of a machine. The eight-wheel drive, in particular, worked to his advantage. It was a feature he sorely missed in the Carvenlo car; his power-on spins, especially at turn eleven, and over the Outcrops, had been pathetic.

During the mid-test break, after a small snack — his stomach had felt full since his first outlap, which he told everyone was because of the oatmeal he'd had for breakfast but was, in fact, his anxiety keeping him hungerless — he'd settled on some small setup changes with Antti, with Darren Franklin closely involved in the discussion, too (for such a large, prestigious team, the focus and support from Darren, in particular, was more than comforting). Between them, however, they agreed that extensive setup changes wouldn't be much use. It was clear, as his throttle-on spins and lift-off oversteer moments had shown, that the problem was him. And though they didn't say it, Janne told it to himself: that would need to change, and fast. On his fourth full season of Grand Prix racing, he had better not take an additional three seasons to settle into the rhythm of the top level.

So in the second session, as he crosses the start/finish line after a streak of clean laps, his intrusive thoughts and trembling pulse drowned out by the roar of the Carvenlo powerplant but fully present, he grunts harshly as his body lunges forwards with the braking force into turn one. He only grazes the pedal, shifting the weight forwards and, trusting fully in the aero, powers through towards turn two. Hard brake — no lock-up this time — and he's smooth on the power on exit. The same ensues for turn three, and as he throws the car in through turn four towards five, the weight shifting instantly — and quicker than in the eight-wheeler — the thumping of his heart grows louder. On the outcrops, the nimbleness of the chassis had to be the antidote to his overeager right foot.

He modulates the throttle through five; brakes hard for six; throttle on the apex, keeping it clean, before another lift into turn seven. The differential locks as the nose of the Carvenlo machine — sand-blasted by the harsh Elbej air — slips past the hairpin, and he's instantly off towards the outside of turn eight to nibble the kerb on the inside up to nine. The braking is harder than before, but it comes naturally.

As Antti had said.

He powers away towards turn ten, and the thumping in his heart — which, though he hadn't realized, had gone away — returns. The braking zone through Hither and Tither is the trickiest sector of the whole track, a curved braking zone into a tightening corner from which the exit is crucial, and its the bit where he'd spun the hardest and swore the dirtiest throughout the day. But this time, he's clinical in his execution: carefully modulating the brake pedal, trailbraking into the apex — a little bit of left-foot braking, for good measure, and the car brings its rear right back around. Immediately pointing away towards the exit, and already thinking of the entry into turn twelve, the car abides by his commands. The rear suspension squats as he squeezes the right pedal, first cautiously, then with authority. The move sticks.

For the entrance into the crater rim, he's brave, and holding the car through the corner he forces himself to pause — mentally, of course, to study how the limit of aerodynamic adhesion through the sweeping run-up to turn thirteen really feels.

Before he can draw conclusions, he's on the braking again, but he's conservative on entry to maximize his exit. By the last few corners — the dirty turn fourteen grippy only through the clean line swept from the sandy tarmac — he's suddenly feeling at ease, and as he powers down the main straight again — at the end of his first proper push lap in a conventional WGPC car — neither the intrusive thoughts nor the thumping in his chest make themselves heard.

He just glances down at his joyously flashing steering wheel screen as he taps the brakes into turn one. A careful, self-congratulatory smirk spawns on his lips.

---

The mood in his garage and around his car is far cheerier the second time the test finishes. He's out of the car slowly, almost reverently; gentle with the wheel, calm to pull off his gloves, serene in removing his balaclava; and actually remembers to ruffle his hair and rub the sweat off of his forehead. With both testing sessions over, he's quick to snap the velcro collar off, too; he's often the kind of person to keep his coat on indoors, and when he went to school, would keep his uniform on until past dinnertime. He zips his brand new, still crinkly overalls down to his waist, the white, orange and green fabric draping down to his legs, and scrambles to snatch the first water bottle he can find. It's Darren Franklin who approaches him this time, not the other way around as in the morning session, with a subdued smile on his face. There's little in the way of instant debrief — opting to save the data analysis, alongside Antti, for a little later.

Thus, waved off and free for a little while, he heads for his drivers' room, crossing behind the Kaylan garage on his way. With his head submerged in his WGPC debut and his team switch, he realizes he'd shut the outside world off for the past few weeks — and as the familiar neon green and orange scheme comes into view, glimpses of the WGP2 title fight blip into his consciousness. The title fight of his debut season was long gone, an afterthought in the stepping stones of his career, replaced by the gritty battle he'd waged against Junker, Melani, and Ted Pressley — towards the former two, a faceless, relentless war; towards the latter, it had been almost ludic, like signing a truce on the playground during a game of tag.

He doesn't stop to ponder in his place, however, continuing to walk past the split doors to the darker corridor leading to the driver rooms proper. In the hall, he does pause — too accustomed to walking towards the doors marked in gray, he's gone the wrong way — but as he turns to cross the hall towards the door marked in green and orange, the door to the left creaks open. A clearly not-content man, fluffy hair messy and firm, shoulders fallen, stumbles out of the room, wearing a green and orange polo shirt. Janne inhales to greet the mystery driver, but the moment is too fleeting to successfully initiate small talk. Their eyes never meet halfway, between Janne noticing the door open and the driver stepping out sideways with his back towards him, and the — as context clues dictate, likely man — disappears quietly through the split doors into the brightly lit garage. The sillouhete of their short, usually fluffy, but damp, firm and patted hair reveals who it had been.

[Esmerel]

Crossbay Circuit, Outskirts of the First City, The Nexus Wardship
Tuesday, 5 October 2021

Jean wheeled the barren UHSGV-5 into his slot in the pits. Just like clockwork, he shut it off and waited as it was put back into the garage.

“Jean, that was some good data we got,” Max told him, as Jean stepped out. “Here, let me help you up- Ngh. Okay, as I said, good data. Started a bit shaky, but you were lapping a consistent high 1:27 near the end of your stint, and the tires and fuel worked just like in the simulations. Me and the guys back at the tech center will be able to use this to tune the car however you like, whenever you like. How’d it feel otherwise?”

“Well, if anything… it’s not a bad or uncomfortable ride,” Jean replied. “It did pretty much what I did, as in, it was very controllable, receptive, et cetera… Look, I can’t say much, to be honest. I can give you feedback, but you’re the techie here. You have the telemetry, anyways.”

“True, but I’d hate to interpret it completely differently to you,” Max said. “However you think it is, we’ll make sure to keep it at the top of the game. Nexus has always been gunning for the top. I mean, everyone has. Let’s just be sure that you can gun for the top, and that it’s even possible.”

Jean sighed in response.

“Hm? Jean, what is it?” Max asked.

“...I don’t know. I’ve just learned not to get my hopes too high up after the last couple of seasons,” Jean replied. “I’m thirty-nine. I can’t say who else on this grid is that old- though I admit I simply don’t know- and everyone else who’s old has had their successes and decent experience on the grid.”

“So entering your fifth season isn’t decent experience? Come on, mate, stop kicking yourself,” Max said. “You know how many WGPC drivers don’t get anywhere near how long you’ve driven for? Almost all of them. Guys like iBen and R.L. are anomalies in this regard. Not to say you couldn’t join them, either.” He paused. “What’s this even about? Just seconds ago we were on an entirely different topic.”

There was a longer pause before Jean replied. “You are right,” he acknowledged. “I just… Well, I can’t say for certain how much longer I’ll be here. That’s for certain. But I do intend on, well, giving my all. If any season, this one.” He sighed again, but more positively. “Do we have time to go over my competition this year?”

“Yeah, absolutely! We’re done here at the circuit, anyways. Let me head to my room and get some data. I’ll see you in your quarters after that,” Max said.


-----


As Max and Jean departed, Jean could see Ryker also at the circuit, having undergone his own Chase Cutter’s testing before the pre-season testing. Jean motioned to Max that he would head over for a moment to mention something.

“Hey, Ryker,” he quickly said. “Been a while, yeah? I know it’s a bit awkward right now, but I’d just like to know if you wanted to talk about anything. Catch up, discuss important things, all that stuff.”

Ryker didn’t say a word, and simply shrugged.

“Oh. I know that feeling,” Jean continued. “I guess this isn’t the time for a chat, not this exact moment. Well, I can be free most of the time, so whenever you need me, just ask. I’ll strike up a conversation anytime.”

Jean left for his quarters after that, but he would be ready to talk with Ryker again at any moment.


-----


Jean’s Quarters, 20 Minutes Later

Jean laid down on his bed to rest and wait. Max seemed to be taking longer than anticipated to get the info that Jean was looking to go over. Time that Jean couldn’t understand himself, but perhaps there was a reason he’d find out about.

Suddenly, as he browsed the internet, he got a call from Evyn. It’s something to do, I guess, he thought to himself. “Evyn? Need anything?” he asked over the call.

“Jean. Nice to hear you. So, heard you made it to your team’s clubhouse,” Evyn replied.

“...Clubhouse? I mean, I am here, and that term could work, but it’s a bit degrading, isn’t it?” Jean asked.

“I kid. Gods, you need to get used to that. I know we were apart for a while, but we’re still brothers. Am I that foreign?” Evyn said.

“No idea. We’re both French-Norwegian-Esmerelians, so it’s harder to be foreign maybe,” Jean wondered aloud. “I don’t know what I’m typing- er, sorry, saying. What did you want to call about?”

“I don’t know either. It doesn’t feel like either of us know what we’re doing in life, does it?” Evyn replied. “Oh, wait, I do know a bit. I wanted to ask you when a good time to meet might be.”

“A meet time?” Jean asked. He froze up a bit. Sure, he’d promised they’d do that a few times over the season, but now that he’d seen the provisional race dates… “Gods, I don’t know that anymore,” he continued. “I’ve seen the dates for the season. The first test is the 9th, the first race the 20th. Then it’s a race every couple of days, all while I’m traveling around the entire damn Verse. I really don’t see any time for us to-”

“Gods, damn it… Jean, this is what you promised me, and why I even let you do this!” Evyn exclaimed. “Don’t go abandoning me already! Not when you said this’d be the big one!”

“I know, I know. It gets hard to think of interesting things now and then,” Jean tried to explain. “Sometimes, it just feels like it would be life, and…”

“The actual fuck are you going on about now?” Evyn asked. “Look, we still need to do some meet-ups.”

“I’m not abandoning the championship. I need to say it here: that takes the priority,” Jean announced. “But I would hate to abandon you as well…”

“Okay, then we won’t. Hm… Wait, I got an idea!” Evyn said. “Let me figure it out over a bit.”

“Um… that does sound better, but… what is it?” Jean asked.

“Oh, nothing much. Nothing you wouldn’t do,” Evyn said.

Jean attempted to ask again, but Evyn had already hung up. These always feel too short, he thought. If only both of us could keep going or maybe…

Jean was lost once again. On cue, however, Max came in with all the data Jean needed.

“Oh, gods, that was PERFECT timing,” Jean said. “Max, did anything happen? You did take a bit longer than I’d hoped.”

“Not much. I just wanted to make sure I had everything really in order,” Max replied. “So, you wanted to know the competition, didn’t you? I’ll go through the list based on my first impressions of their competitiveness, from least to most. Not to say any are slow, but… Oh, let’s just begin.”

“Yes, let’s.”

“I’d say the teams we don’t need to worry about as much are the entries from Diarcesia, Togonistan, and Siovanija and Teusland,” Max began. “These are the promoted teams from the nations that have proven their worth in the past and through WGP2. Of course, every team was invited; there are no unworthy ones, I’d say. But the new ones we don’t know much about might prove a challenge or not to us. We’ll just have to see. Next up would be the Aurunan entry, Viska Racing. They’re indirectly allies to the Nimban program, having had an Aurunan driver in WGP2 and they’ll use InMotion tires. Last year they were seventh in the championship, the lowest out of the returning teams. It means they beat six other teams, to mention; they were the middle of the grid. It only gets a bit stronger from there. There’s the Eelandii team, which came sixth, and is sort of a smaller TRAE. They’re never outstanding, but they have their moments, and they don’t ever just collapse. Fifth was us. Fourth was Preston Autos, from Hapilopper. Their star driver, Rudy Edwards, came very close to winning the championship, so expect them to be near or at the front with you. Badai Angin, from Filindostan, was third, but aside from Dimitrianov trying it out it wasn’t anything spectacular; I’d put Preston above them in terms of competition. On the side, I’ll talk briefly about Carvenlo. You haven’t raced with that team on the grid, but it’s a dangerous one if it can fight for it. Six constructors’ championships and fourteen seasons of previous experience, dating to I think all the way back to the start of the WGPC. They’re also fielding Laukkanen, so he needs to be a target you can beat. Either that, or Ryker, anyways. Of course, at the top, we’ve got Tropicorp proper, which has been pretty dominant for two and some of a third season. They’ve got monstrous V10 power and aero to match the terror of their speed. Talvela’s retired, but iBen’s got ten wins under his belt and doesn’t look to be slowing down soon. He’s a big title contender for you to fight, if not the biggest.” Max stopped. “How’d I do?”

“Are you sure you don’t need water or an ibuprofen?” Jean asked. “How long were you just talking?”

“Just a minute or two. I’ve gone for plenty longer,” Max replied. “Anyways, that’s generally what you’ll be looking to face this year. If you’ve got more questions, you’re free to ask, and I can send more data to you onto your arm. Right. I need to be in my office doing some other work. You should relax, but be ready to do what you think should be done. The first test session is in Togonistan in a couple of days, and we need to be ready.”

“Right you are,” Jean said. “See you around, I guess.”

Max turned to leave, but stopped just short of the door. “Oh, wait! One more thing. We should name your car, like we’ve done,” he remembered.

Jean waited to think. “I don’t have a name. Of course, I’d like to, but… Give me time,” he said. “Absolutely by the first race of the season. Let me and them get acquainted over the tests first.”

Max nodded and left. It was going to be a busy season- busier than they’d done before. He needed to get to it sooner and sooner now.

Time, after all, waited for no one.

[Liventia]

(OOC: Well, my graphics skills are not great, so, with much thanks to the F1 2021 game, here's some liveries!)

Carvenlo Liventia Airways Motor Racing Team
Dear "World Grand Prix Driver Rumour Championship",

Thank you for applying for accreditation to cover the Carvenlo Liventia Airways Motor Racing Team remotely this season. We understand that you have opted to apply for a remote credential as you run a fansite and are unable to travel to every Grand Prix event.

We are pleased to confirm that your application has been approved, and you will receive all official communication from the Carvenlo Liventia Airways Motor Racing Team this season delivered directly to your inbox.

Furthermore, your remote accreditation includes access to all official press conferences called by, and official events organised by, the Carvenlo Liventia Airways Racing Team. Please note that this credential does not entitle you to access to the World Grand Prix Championship's official driver media sessions, and you will need to apply for a separate credential with the World Grand Prix Organisation to receive such access.

Thank you for choosing to cover the Carvenlo Liventia Airways Motor Racing Team, its drivers #51 R.L. Cruisin and #17 Janne Laukkanen, and its test driver Lukas Fichter, this 19th World Grand Prix Championship season.

Carvenlo Liventia Airways Motor Racing Team official communication
The information contained in this communication is EMBARGOED FOR PUBLICATION until the third World Grand Prix Championship pre-season test.

Dear Member of the Accredited Media,
Thank you for registering your interest in covering the Carvenlo Liventia Airways Motor Racing Team livery reveal remotely.

As you will be aware, at the first two official World Grand Prix Championship 19 pre-season tests, Carvenlo Liventia Airways Racing has run plain white liveries ahead of a formal livery reveal, which will take place on the eve of the third and final official pre-season test in Caldwell, Tumbra.

To recap, Carvenlo Liventia Airways Racing opted to run race simulations at the first official test in Hwoarang, Togonistan, before switching to quali simulations at the second at the Elbej Circuit in Diarcesia.

Now, we are pleased to confirm that R.L. Cruisin, Janne Laukkanen, Lukas Fichter, and the team's official internal test driver Ryan Harris-Jones, running a spare chassis with the #2 in our internal sessions, will drive the full-liveried car in time for the new season.

Carvenlo wishes to thank team title partner Liventia Airways for graciously giving up sponsorship space on the car, and is pleased to announce that one of Liventia's top electronics brands, echo, has come on board as a sponsor.

As you are covering the official reveal remotely, we are pleased to present the cars to you ahead of time. Please remember this information is embargoed.

For further information, please contact:

Joseph Rennie
Head of Communications, Carvenlo Liventia Airways Racing
j.rennie.comms@carvenlo.len

[Nico Hulkenberg]

Elbej Historic Site
Diarcesia

For the first time since the PB trials, Dario was back in the driving seat of the PF-1C - albeit, this time, as a contracted driver with the team. He’d already had his seat fitted and the car adjusted to his liking during said trials, hence he was able to get out on track quite quickly. Before he went out, however, he had a quick conversation with his engineer.

”Radio check, Dario. Radio check.”

“Loud and clear.”

“Good, good. As you’ll already know, your car is set up for qualifying runs, to see how the car would run if pushed to the limit on one-lap pace.”

“Gotcha. So, you want me to go out and burn these tyres out pretty quickly?”

“Yep, just do a few quick laps and then we’ll review the data when you come back in.”

“Solid. Tell the guys to get the blankets off, it’s time to get this show on the road.”

As the blankets were taken off of the tyres, the deep hum of the PF-1C’s Sidus engine reminded Dario of the sheer power that was under his control. The 616M-1B behind him felt a lot more powerful than the Motorworks Engineering engine he’d used during his tenure at the Motorworks team in WGPC 18, and its power was proven by the slightly louder hum it began to emit as he drove out of the garage.

”Fuckin’ hell, that sounds good.” thought Dario. ”Here’s hoping it’s as good as it sounds.”

It turned out that the engine was, in fact, as good as it sounded, as his first proper push lap in the car resulted in a competitive time being set, all while the engine squealed with delight as the car thrashed around the circuit, especially around The Outcrops and on the straight.



”That was a good time, Dario, but while you’re on your cooldown lap, I’d just like to say - you could do with taking a bit more speed through Crater Rim.”

“What, you want me to keep my foot flat to the floor through there?”

“You could try, yes. The downforce will help.”

“It better!”

His second push lap was a couple of tenths quicker, mainly due to the PF-1C carrying more speed into high-downforce sections of the track.

”Woo! I’m loving this thing!”

“And we’re loving watching you! Now, a couple more good push laps and we’ll pull you in.”

The harder Dario pushed, the more the tyres wore out, and eventually it got to the stage where there was no use trying to set quick laps on them. Hence, he drove back into the pits and was wheeled back into the garage after his fourth push lap. His black, purple and orange machine had done what it needed to do, and for the next thirty minutes he discussed the data with his engineer.

”Hey, any chance we could get the drinks system in the car filled?”

“If you’re thirsty, you could always hop out the car and review the data over at the pit wall. We’ve got plenty water, and we don’t bite.”

“Always good to test these things, though.”

“Too right. Any special requests?”

“Well, any chance you could do some lemony water? Normal water tastes scheiße when it gets too hot.”

“Well, too bad. You’ll be getting this special kind of drink - a salty mixture. Contains lots of good stuff, the type of thing that keeps you in focus and hydrated during the race.”

“Salty water?”

“In essence, yes, but it won’t taste as bad.”

“I’ll give it a go.”

Once the drinks pouch was filled with the salty liquid, Dario was told to take a sip by pressing the button on his steering wheel.

”Hmmm. Mmmm. Nope, not a fan.”

“You’ll get used to it. It’s nice!”

“You’re not the one drinking it.”

“It’s nice when you’re trapped in a stuffy cockpit that gets really hot while you’re hurtling round a race track at high speed.”

“…that’s entirely fair.”

“Now, go for another drive, but try to take a few sips of drink per lap. It’ll be interesting to see how your times differ lap by lap, too.”

“Copy that.”

Dario’s times would improve as he gradually emptied the drinks pouch, until he noticed a crucial flaw with it out on the track.

”It’s come loose.”

“What has?”

“The drink. My feet are getting wet.”

“Oh, deary me, that’s an issue. Come back into the pits and we’ll reconnect that.”

“Could you do that during a race?”

“No.”

“So you want me to go drink-less if it disconnects on, say, the third lap?”

“Yes.”

“What if it gets too hot?”

“If it gets too hot, you’ll get to enjoy a much nicer drink at the end of the race. For now, suck it up.”

“Aw.”

Overall, testing was a success - both Dario and the car were proven to have pace within, and the fault with the drinks system was fixed. He also began to converse more often with the team members, including Laura, whom he shared some snacks with. She seemed a bit nervy, hence he tried not to take up too much of her time. He did, however, feel the need to compliment the snacks.

”Mm, this is some bloody good stuff. What was it you called it, konami? Oh, kuurami. Still, my compliments to the chef - a solid 10/10. They certainly taste a lot better than the drink I had from the car, hah!”

Dario also noted that while the kuurami tasted somewhat similar to the Zimtschnecken available back in Hülkenberg, they were a lot smaller - and probably better for you. (Fun fact: Zimtschnecken translates to Cinnamon Snails - relating to the spiralling shape of the pastry) He thanked Laura for the snacks, and mentioned that he’d make it up to her sometime, most likely by bringing something from home in time for the next test.

”Hmmm, what to bring, though?”

[Sorlovia]

Krupin Bungalow, Sorlovia

KRUPIN COURTS RACE EELANDII AND F+H EMINENT

The wait was getting excruciating. He’d never been a man who liked suspense.

His entire career could very well hang in the balance. He’d taken to flicking through the news stories from home to distract himself from continuously checking his emails. If he didn’t yet know if would be racing in WGPC19 he could at least keep himself up to date on the Sorlovian Gran Prix scene and the goings on in motorsport world. He was, after all, the champion of the past two Sorlovian Gran Prix and a household name in Sorlovia. The trophies from SGP19 and SGP20 sat proudly in his trophy cabinet next to a portrait of the car he’d raced.

It seemed that Zaitsev was taking advantage of Volkov’s troubles. Zaitsev was the leading car brand in Sorlovia with an immense industry presence. They were most well-known for their range of high-performance sports cars and muscle cars. But they also built executive sedans and a range of more affordable passenger vehicles. If you drove a car in Sorlovia there was a very strong chance that it was from Zaitsev’s catalogue. Gregori owned a Zaitsev Tempest muscle tour and loved everything about it. It was one of the few extravagant things he allowed himself.

Zaitsev Motorsports would be a game changer for the entire motorsports industry in Sorlovia. They were the only ones capable of dethroning Volkov and they had more than enough funding to do it. It was already rumoured that they were preparing to present a team for WGPC20. Some of the louder industry commentators were suggesting that they had planned to do it for WGPC19 but weren’t yet ready to make that leap. Zaitsev itself remained mysteriously quiet on the matter.

“It’s only a matter of time,” Elena said with a soft smile “Zaitsev haven’t exactly been quiet about their interest in motorsports.”

“They have a contract with the Sorlovian Gran Prix,” Gregori replied “but I wondered if they’d make the leap to the World Gran Prix. It certainly does seem like their kind of thing.”

One company’s misfortune was another’s opportunity. Zaitsev was as ruthless and ambitious as car manufacturers come. If there was an opportunity to increase profits or to seize a valuable business opportunity they would take it. Their line of cars enjoyed prime-time advertising and the most visible billboards. Their showrooms and dealerships were pristine. They had even provided the provided the state car for the President. There were rumours that they were planning to take on Tropicorp in some way. Entering a race team in the World Gran Prix Championships was very much a possibility if not an inevitability.

Gregori leaned over to kiss his wife softly. She, along with his faith, had been crucial in keeping him grounded and hopeful during his period of waiting. The stress of not knowing was getting to him and she'd spent many long nights talking it through with him. His hopes rested heavily on a response from Race Eelandii and sitting in the dark as to his future wasn't easy on him.

He'd been in touch with both Race Eelandii and F+H Eminent. They both knew he was interested. All he could do was wait for the decision from the powers that be.

[Tumbra]

Welcome to
Mount Fesmos Circuit
Caduke, Tumbra

Welcome to Mount Fesmos, a true driver's racing circuit located in Mount Fesmos National Park, at the base of the titular Mount Fesmos — one of Tumbra's highest peaks. Opened in 1951, the circuit presents a true technical and aggressive challenge to any driver as they seek to conquer the many inclines and declines, as well as the fearsome corners of the Fesmos Circuit.

Originally incorporating public roads and stretching to a length of over 10km, the circuit was pared back in the 1970s both to improve driver and spectator safety, while keeping all the characteristics of what made the original circuit so fearsome and loved by drivers and spectators alike. Hosting both the Caduke Grand Prix on the Tumbran Super Formula championship and the Tumbran Superbike Championship, at 5.8km, Caduke's premier venue for motor racing offers opportunities for racing fans of all stripes to turn up and show their support for their favoured racing driver.

A Lap of the Circuit

Beginning on the start-finish straight, set on a constantly inclining hill, turn 1 is a sharp hairpin that presents both an overtaking opportunity for a skilled driver as well as a technical challenge — the curve continues to climb throughout the apex. It's important to get a good exit here, as turns 2 and 3, relatively simple corners, still have the potential to make or break a lap of this circuit. The technically demanding sector 1, with its multitude of medium and low speed corners, counterbalances the more aggressive sectors 2 and 3; and this opening sequence of corners showcases it brilliantly.

Carry as much speed as you can through turns 4 and 5 - with extended track limits to allow this — and if you're in an open-wheeler with access to a drag reduction system, make sure you keep yourself within one second of the car ahead! The first DRS detection zone occurs immediately before the right-left slalom of turns 6 and 7. A longer, rolling turn 8 feeds drivers onto the first DRS straight, which continues to steadily ascend to turn 9, the highest point on the circuit with a view of Mount Vernon, the highest mountain in Tumbra.

The view doesn't exist for long, however, as drivers turn immediately away from the view to begin the long downhill descent back to the start/finish straight. Turn 10, an off-camber 90 degree corner, leads directly onto the back straight; but it's a straight that must be manouvered carefully, for the long, fearsome turn 11 is up ahead. A downward-facing corner that bends slightly uphill near the end, turn 11 has been known to put a lot of stress on the driver's front left tyre. Hold your nerve as the track heads towards the turn 12-13-14 complex — two 90 degree turns and a slight straightening of the circuit.

Navigate the slight kink of turn 15 before swerving to line your car up for turn 16, and another short straight hits cars. It's not a very long drive, however, as the legendary turn 17 comes up. A fourth-gear sweeping hairpin, carrying the maximal amount of speed through this relatively flat corner is crucial to line up overtakes into turns 18 and 19.

The second DRS detection point is located right before the fast left-hander that is turn 18, while overcoming pull into the right-hander that is turn 19 spits drivers out back onto the climbing start-finish straight. Turn 19 — the lowest part of the track — is also the final corner on the track, and the DRS zone begins right after it. Sporting a pitlane with a relatively fast speed limit — 80 km/h — the undercut is considerably less powerful here than on other tracks. The track then loops around to the beginning, with the start-finish tower being located near the last third of the circuit.

How To Get Here

Caldwell Regional Airport provides services both international and local flights, but international flights directly to Caldwell are rare. International flights tend to end at Fontwell International Airport; an hour-long train ride on one of Tumbra's many high-speed rail lines will get teams and spectators to a train stop right outside the circuit. For motorists, the M1, which cuts through Caduke state, has an exit near the circuit; take exit 26 and then follow the signs to get to Mount Fesmos. Parking, however, is extremely limited for the public, owing to the nature of the circuit...

[WGPC 19]

Mount Fesmos Circuit, Caldwell, Tumbra

Located deep in the mountainous western region of Tumbra, Mount Fesmos provides a thrilling yet challenging course for drivers and a technical challenge for teams alike. Located near the undulating hills at the foot of Mount Fesmos, the circuit's first sector provides a technical challenge, with tight yet flowing corners that flow into one another. The circuit reaches its highest point at the banked turn 9, and begins climbing just after the start-finish line, providing an thrill unmatched by few circuits worldwide.


Companion Event(s): None

Pre-Season: Practice #3

Conditions:      	Dry
Predicted Optimal Time:	00:01:31.098
Nation:         	TMB
Circuit:        	Mount Fesmos Circuit

Drivers have 180 minutes per session to complete as many laps of the track as they like

Test #3 - Session #1

POS # ▍DRIVER                           	FASTEST LAP	GAP TO LEADER
 1 37 ▍Laura Haukanna                   	00:01:33.488	00:00:00.000
 2  8 ▍William Archer                   	00:01:33.616	00:00:00.128
 3 77 ▍iBen Toralmintii                 	00:01:33.922	00:00:00.434
 4 85 ▍Olivia Stone                     	00:01:34.077	00:00:00.589
 5 51 ▍R.L. Cruisin                     	00:01:34.145	00:00:00.657
 6  5 ▍Rudy Edwards                     	00:01:34.198	00:00:00.710
 7 31 ▍Joy Wingelaar                    	00:01:34.256	00:00:00.769
 8 27 ▍Dario Nülkeschläger              	00:01:34.289	00:00:00.681
 9 40 ▍Adriana Kowalski Ela...          	00:01:34.340	00:00:00.853
10 41 ▍Jean Mercer-Daly                 	00:01:34.472	00:00:00.985
11 17 ▍Janne Laukkanen                  	00:01:34.540	00:00:01.053
12 88 ▍Ted Pressley                     	00:01:34.560	00:00:01.073
13 -- ▍(T) Daryl Mizushima              	00:01:34.681	00:00:01.194
14 50 ▍Sara Luna                        	00:01:34.728	00:00:01.240
15 15 ▍Heinz-Otto Junker                	00:01:35.091	00:00:01.604
16 19 ▍Dom Falepeau                     	00:01:35.432	00:00:01.944
17 -- ▍(T) Skiia Vialiv                 	00:01:35.745	00:00:02.257
18 -- ▍(T) Alvis Kalvin Lacs...         	00:01:35.947	00:00:02.460
19 94 ▍Ryker Lane                       	00:01:36.054	00:00:02.567
20 -- ▍(T) Lukas Fichter                	00:01:36.110	00:00:02.623
21 19 ▍Anola "Wrench" Melani            	00:01:36.545	00:00:03.057
22 -- ▍(T) Sam Blaatschapen             	00:01:36.849	00:00:03.361
23 82 ▍Kinu Luminna                     	00:01:36.963	00:00:03.476
24 -- ▍(T) Aaron Deering                	00:01:37.816	00:00:04.328
25 11 ▍Lane Carter                      	00:01:38.078	00:00:04.590

Test #3 - Session #2

POS # ▍DRIVER                           	FASTEST LAP	GAP TO LEADER
 1 88 ▍Ted Pressley                     	00:01:33.365	00:00:00.000
 2  5 ▍Rudy Edwards                     	00:01:33.415	00:00:00.050
 3 85 ▍Olivia Stone                     	00:01:33.516	00:00:00.151
 4 17 ▍Janne Laukkanen                  	00:01:33.618	00:00:00.253
 5 41 ▍Jean Mercer-Daly                 	00:01:33.639	00:00:00.274
 6 -- ▍(T) Sam Blaatschapen             	00:01:33.693	00:00:00.328
 7 82 ▍Kinu Luminna                     	00:01:33.708	00:00:00.343
 8 19 ▍Anola "Wrench" Melani            	00:01:33.737	00:00:00.372
 9 77 ▍iBen Toralmintii                 	00:01:33.745	00:00:00.480
10 11 ▍Lane Carter                      	00:01:33.750	00:00:00.485
11 40 ▍Adriana Kowalski Ela...          	00:01:33.781	00:00:00.516
12 19 ▍Dom Falepeau                     	00:01:33.795	00:00:00.530
13 -- ▍(T) Aaron Deering                	00:01:33.811	00:00:00.546
14 -- ▍(T) Lukas Fichter                	00:01:33.937	00:00:00.672
15 37 ▍Laura Haukanna                   	00:01:34.000	00:00:00.735
16 -- ▍(T) Daryl Mizushima              	00:01:34.023	00:00:00.758
17 -- ▍(T) Skiia Vialiv                 	00:01:34.034	00:00:00.769
18 94 ▍Ryker Lane                       	00:01:34.069	00:00:00.804
19 51 ▍R.L. Cruisin                     	00:01:34.162	00:00:00.897
20 50 ▍Sara Luna                        	00:01:34.179	00:00:00.914
21  8 ▍William Archer                   	00:01:34.196	00:00:00.931
22 27 ▍Dario Nülkeschläger              	00:01:34.715	00:00:01.350
23 -- ▍(T) Alvis Kalvin Lacs...         	00:01:34.835	00:00:01.470
24 31 ▍Joy Wingelaar                    	00:01:35.294	00:00:01.929
25 15 ▍Heinz-Otto Junker                	00:01:35.605	00:00:02.240

Note: This is the Final Pre-Season Test. In order to conclude the season before the end of the year, the early season events will have shorter cutoffs while later season cutoffs will be approximately one week apart each. Cutoff times for practice events were pushed later in the day to allow more signings to take place before each event.Projected Cutoff time for Race #1 22:00 BST

WGPC Motorworks will compete this season and offers seats to the following drivers: Gregori Kupin, Cocoabo #23, Anneliese Devereux, Daryl Mizushima, Erica Okumura, Sayono Souzare. With two seats available it is expected that this will leave the Motorworks team with a maximum of 4 drivers who will attempt to qualify with the top 2 advancing to the race as in WGPC Season 18. WGPC Motorworks contracts will be good for 3 races and will be renewed following Round 3 if applicable. (OOC: If a Motorworks driver is not RP'd at least once over a 3 race period then the contract will not likely be renewed). These drivers are also encouraged to maintain their test driver roles at WGPC teams if applicable.

HIgh Reliability Tire The Gajamina Tyre Co. has been chosen as the official Supplier of the WGPC High Reliability Tire Option ( 0.8/-0.8 ) and is approved for use by WGPC Teams.

[Auruna]

Elbej Historic Site Circuit, Diarcesia
Pre-Season Test 2
Viska during the pre-season tests have shown promise especially with Olivia, to the delight of Jöna but now, for the second test, two more drivers will be driving the Viska cars. One is a returning friend and the other is a WGPC rookie. Before letting them head out on track, Jöna briefs them on the test programmes. Jöna just goes straight to the point as there are only a few minutes before the first session starts. Kinu nods and quickly preps for the test while Aaron raises his hand to ask a few questions. Jöna just tells him. "No need to ask anything. We just want you to get out there, gather some data, gain some experience behind the wheel. Get comfortable with everything. All you need to do is drive. That's all."

Aaron nods and excitedly heads over to the #3 car that was prepared for him. After that, Jöna heads to the pit wall, greeted by a coffee-drinking Artur and their two race engineers, Jan and Baxen. It was another usual day but good news kept coming. Olivia was showing strength in various circuits and the performance with the stops have improved. "It's time to continue." Jöna says as the test session starts.

---

"Radio check Kinu."

"Loud and clear."

"You'll be running on race trim for most of the time so you'll have time to get used to the car for the most important part of the weekend. We'll be running softs for this session then mediums and hards for later."

"Copy."

Kinu heads out after he was given the signal, he was sent out shortly after Olivia and after a while, Aaron soon followed. The circuit was not too busy during the first few minutes so it was relatively quiet. On his out-lap, Kinu tweaks his car a bit, adjusting the brake balance and torque to his liking. He makes his way around the circuit, under the blistering heat of the desert.

"I'm not used to this heat yet. Hope it won't overheat anything but I'm being cooked in here, I might be able to completely empty the drinks bottle."

"Just endure it."

"You're right."

"Let me know if it's too hot for you. There's no air conditioning in those cars."

"Copy."

At the exit of the final corner, he opens the throttle to speed through the pit straight to start his laps. It was certainly more powerful than the Motorworks car her drove last season and it felt liberating knowing the full potential of the cars. I could've achieved more but I'll just endure it.

"Prioritise exit at 9. You're allowed to use Mode 4, Type 3. You can go for Type 4 for the straights."

"Copy."

Kinu pushes as hard as he can at the next lap, multitasking with the car's settings while communicating with Jan. With a serious team like Viska, he never thought much about this during his stint with the Motorworks team especially since Lukas had a playful tone on the radio which is drastically different from Jan. He keeps Turn 9 in mind as he goes through the Outcrops and into the final sector. He makes his way around Crater Rim and round the final couple of corners. He turns up the hybrid system and pushes all the way through the pit straight to post his fastest time of the session. After crossing the line, he slows down for his cooldown lap.

"Your fastest time was a 1:16.8, great consistency."

"Ah.. that's fine by me, I'm going back. It's exhausting under this heat."

"Sitrep?"

"I'm well done."

"Copy, in this lap."

"Ah.. I think the bottle's finished."

"We'll refill it for later. Get some rest, there's cold water and ice cream at the back."

"I'm looking forward to ice cream."

---

Sterlennau, Auruna
After Pre-Season Test 2
After the first two tests without much information about their cars, Viska finally reveals their car and livery for this WGPC season. The reveal is held at MNA's Sterlennau branch to a crowd of local fans, journalists and more. Viska drivers Olivia Stone and Kinu Luminna, and test driver Aaron Deering are present for the reveal as well as team principal Jöna Ekeränna, for obvious reasons. It was a relatively small event compared to most reveals but it got the job done.

The drivers then unveil the cars. It was a huge change from the previous design but the livery hardly changed but it was much improved to fit the cars' sleeker design. The iconic VIska eagle is the main feature of the livery, emblazoned on the purple car and it only featured a few sponsors as per Viska tradition but most of the sponsors changed.

The Sponsors
Zorten - An Aurun oil and tech company which supplies all teams in the MNA with high performance engine oil and fuel. Their subsidiary of Zorten Computers makes custom electronic components for the teams. They sponsor one race of the AEC at Novinaya where they are based in.

Aurunair - Flag carrier of Auruna. It is the oldest state-owned Aurun airline. During the late 2010s, Aurunair has expressed interest in motorsport eventually leading to them sponsoring many Aurun teams including the MNA Big Three -- Viska, Schkeska, and VSK.

Mattari Oil - Another Aurun oil company that specializes in engine oil. They partnered with Zorten in high-performance oils for the domestic MNA series. They are known for their special endurance oil for the AEC.

Nela Kina | ネラキナ - It is an Aurun beverage and dessert company known for bringing sake to Auruna where it became their most popular product. Had previously sponsored Krazivaran and Viska in the domestic series, Schkeska in WSRC and is the title sponsor of VSK in WGP2.

LVA Esports - An Aurun esports team that is closely associated with Viska in racing simulators. Most Viska Juniors nowadays move to LVA to keep training their skills and still be able to compete before they are chosen by the Big Three in their choice of motorsport.

MNA - The national governing body for motorsport in Auruna that helped with the rise of motorsport in the country. They handle everything motorsport-related with their own news site, messaging app, forums, and other various things. They also fund the teams and circuits in Auruna.

The Car
The VK-02H is Viska's fighter for the WGPC 19 season. Learning from the results of the previous WGPC, they took their precious time to perfect the evolution of their VK-01H. Using the knowledge from VSK, they sought to use their own aero designs that will suit their design language, opting for more cornering speed as the power unit would be the one responsible for the straights. It heavily features many of Viska's latest technologies from their "Talon" suspension system and pseudo-AWD system to the smaller things like the driver's HUD. Most of the technologies are kept a secret.

The Engine
After Schkeska's entry into international motorsport with WSRC and the performance issues with the previous iteration of the engine. Viska decided to take over their WGPC engine development with Project Re:Genesis while keeping the Schkeska name. The project is headed by Hori Nÿkkänö, Viska WGPC Technical Director. The new engine keeps most of the previous design and components, especially the hybrid system, but it is heavily improved to better complement the car. Known issues were fixed during the off-season with millions of Raviens spent on R&D. Reliability isn't the primary focus for the engine this time and it will still receive improvements throughout the season.

Engine Specs
[Schkeska] Re:Genesis VT-160F/H-II "Kiiruja"
Configuration: V6 turbocharged dual hybrid engine
Displacement: 1.6L
V-Angle: 90° cylinder angle
Valvetrain: 24-valve DOHC
Fuel Delivery: Direct injection
Aspiration: Single turbocharged (if permitted, Viska Dual Turbo System/ VTDS)
Turbocharger manufacturer: Viska Internal Turbo Technologies Unit
Max revs: 15.000 rpm
Hybrid Systems: Dual hybrid / hybrid x hybrid - Schkeska Electric Flywheel x Battery Hybrid (SEF-BH / SEF-B Hybrid)
Engine Management: Zorten-Viska ZTV-440
Power: ~988hp @ 10.500 rpm*

*The power output is currently estimated based on WGPC technical regulations as Viska didn't officially reveal the engine's actual power output.

Viska Racing VK-02H
#85 - Olivia Stone

Viska Racing VK-02H
#82 - Kinu Luminna

Viska Racing VK-02H
#28 - Aaron Deering

[Squidroidia]

Well, here goes nothing...

To: Lane Carter
From: Daryl Mizushima
Subject: I'm Sorry

---

Hey there Lane,

I hope you're happy with the seat you got at Race Eelandii. It was just over a year ago when the Cocabo Expo happened, and we both made our names known in more than one way. You were the one who won the Cocabo Expo race and ultimately a seat with the lovely team you are in right now. You are going to have a season to remember with the team, don't forget it. Unfortunately, it won't be with me as your wingman.

Lane, I know what's going through your mind. You were there with me for the tests and now greener pastures are calling. You so want me to be your number 2, and maybe someday we'll race the world on together, Galarian and Inkhallen side by side fighting for every inch of every turn. Maybe it will happen next year. Maybe it will happen a few years down the line, or in NSSCRA, or in WSRC, or maybe somewhere else. But, Lane Carter, not this year.

There's only one other option. A way back to the system that wrecked me, that forced me to do better even though I had Dario Nülkeschläger beating me to the punch every single qualifying weekend... Motorworks. Unfortunately, Mr. Lane Carter, I'm going to drive for that team. I hope that I'll do better than those 2 GP starts last term, I really do. Maybe a 2nd year in the Motorworks shop, same name, different equipment, will help me out long term. And maybe someday, somewhere, we will do what you and I want to do.

Don't worry, I'll still keep in touch with you on email, and maybe someday we will meet face to face, maybe on accident, maybe to talk some things out, maybe to watch some football (I know your Jags have the Cup of Harmony while us Inkling fans have the World Cup, where we just made the last 16 and maybe have a shot to advance to the Quarters or even Semis or goodness forgive the World Cup Final) or do whatever you want to do. I'm just... Sorry we aren't on the same team this year.

Until our paths meet again,
Daryl Mizushima, WGPC Motorworks #63

[Liventia]

It was a short text message that R.L. Cruisin, Janne Laukkanen, and Lukas Fichter all received the morning after the third pre-season test in Tumbra.

Turns out, a rumour first reported by the World Grand Driver Rumour Championship fansite was true.

From a number that may or may not have been saved in any of the three drivers' phone address books, it simply read:

R.L., Janne, Lukas –
Let us know by end of week if you'd like us to fly any family members or loved ones to Talbott for the season opener. It's the team's home race.

We'll also fly them to any other race you want. All expenses covered.

Matthew

Carvenlo had always been a cut-throat, business-first, results-oriented team. But with Matthew Portland, himself a former WGPC racer and world champion at the helm, things were different. Portland had issued an edict, almost, that the racing team would be more human. The needs of the drivers, pit crew, mechanics, and travelling staff would come first.

Sure, the offer to fly family members and loved ones around the multiverse with the team on its WGPC sojourns was going to be limited to the drivers – including test driver Fichter – but Portland had instituted new rules governing mental health for every employee of the team.

"It's too intense," Portland had explained to Carvenlo group CEO Mark Marsh, himself the racing team's former principal. "Yes, it's a results business. But we, as a team, have been out of the game long enough that we can make these changes.

"No one really expects us to come back from five seasons away and win the title, but if we have a team of drivers and mechanics who feel ably supported by the team, we might just do it," he had reasoned.

So the stage was set.

The team would kick off its return to the World Grand Prix Championship scene on home soil, at its home base, the Talbott Autodrome. And, perhaps, they'd do it with their three drivers' loved ones all in attendance – all expenses paid.

[Tumbra]

Grantfeldt, Tumbra
Pressley Racing Engineering Headquarters

Charlie Pressley sat, relaxing, with one eye on the monitor with his inbox and another on the cars of various shapes and sizes zooming around Mount Fesmos. The organisers of the prospective Tumbran Grand Prix had failed to get their track on the 12-race schedule; but they had managed to secure the third and last pre-season test, and his attention was somewhat piqued by it.

It didn't matter that his son had essentially written him out of his life, and refused to come back to Grantfeldt in the off-season, of course. There were rumours that he'd shacked up in Couno, an apartment lent to him by his friend Ian. Ted was now a WGPC driver, for the team that he'd brought to within whiskers of a driver's title, and he was one of — if not the most — keenly watched rookie on the field.

And there was little wonder why, either. In the first test at Hwoarang, Ted had finished top of the field twice. The question of whether this was the T-180's true pace or whether it was merely the other teams sandbagging was seemingly answered at Elbej, where Ted had struggled; but then again the track was never to the car's liking, anyway. Now they were at home, where Ted was stronger, having raced around this track countless times in the junior formulae and in Tumbran Super Formula; and Charlie began paying more and more attention to the second test session of the day.

He did so just in time to see his son leaving the pits, not in the usual green-and-gold livery of the Kaylan, but a grey-and-gold one that was used for testing. As he eased the T-180 round the track, Charlie ruffled through a filing container containing several manila folders containing several projects for the future; before settling on one, and pulling it out.

CLASSIFIED
PROJECT CALLISTO
WGP2/WGPC ENTERPRISE - PRESSLEY RACING ENGINEERING

It had always been a long-term plan of his; the plan was always to enter WGP2 in the long run, with his son as the team's main driver. Things had slightly gone awry; Ted had flown the coop, but the rest of the plan continued was continuing in full motion. There was a reason why the team had skipped out on the Esportivan WGP3 charter although they were entitled to it with their victory in the Constructor's Championship; their resources were entirely being poured into the Pressley Racing Engineering WGP2 challenger — which would hopefully take the field for WGP2 Season 6. If the plan went ahead, they'd try their best to use Kaylan engines; particularly ironic, considering how his son's team; who he was now estranged from; was now powering his cars.

It definitely felt as if Kaylan would choose his son over entering the Tumbran market. Already the initial enthusiasm from Kaylan had cooled off; now communications from them were more cool, professional, cold even. Maybe it was the fact that Kaylan had found their golden boy; he'd topped two pre-season sessions, so far, and was looking on track to get a third one. A third of a purple bar was on the timing box beneath Ted's name; he was properly stretching the T-180's legs, adapting the aggressive car to the more technically demanding first sector. And if he could do that, the second and third sectors would be nothing more than a nice Sunday afternoon drive for the carbon fibre behemoth.

Ted crossed the second timing sector in a blur of grey. A second purple bar popped up below the timing; he was on track to go fastest. Charlie's attention was focused now fully on the screen; the third, final sector was always Ted's achilles heel; a byproduct of his cautious nature.

But the downhill blast revealed that something had changed about him in the offseason. Taking almost all of the kerb, Ted rushed down towards the turn 15 kink; and took it at nearly full throttle, swerving to the left to keep his speed up. Charlie had never seen Ted take that line before; he'd always eased off, made sure he kept all four lines on the track. He checked the car as it raced down towards the long, sweeping turn 17; yes, the 88 was that of Ted.

The camera angle switched to an onboard camera; Ted eased the car, gently, into turn 17's multi-apexed corner; first, second, third, apex, putting the throttle back on after the second; nearly crossing the white lines on exit, again, but positioning his car perfectly for turns 18 and 19. Crossing the line...purple, again. Ted's bar on the timing tower moved straight to the top of the timing charts; and Charlie Pressley felt a small bubbling of regret as he turned back away from the screen, looking onto the factory floor; where a monocoque was being assembled. It was meant to be the car that would bring Ted Pressley to victory; it was meant to be the car that would put Tumbran motorsports on the map.

But he'd now need to start from 0. With two new drivers. A long way up, but it wasn't impossible.

And perhaps one day, if the team managed to get success, he'd be able to welcome Ted back into the fold.

[Vilita and Turori]

While Juracai Klianiota was in Banija competing in the AOCAR Stock Car Series Race, Intoreil Palmsti'i took in the final WGPC Pre-Season Test in Tumbra where Lane Carter and Daryl Mizushima were competing on behalf of Race Eelandii VTGP.

Palmsti'i caught up with Klianiota via communicator following the session to give an outbrief.


IP: Well, as you know the strategies in the first session were all over the place. We were testing some things with Lane that we want to use on longer runs throughout the season. With Daryl we were just looking for speed. He actually didn't do that badly, fastest of all the Test drivers in the first session though presumably they were focused on other strategies just like Lane was.

In the second session the track was a bit faster and Daryl improved his time from the first session but still fell in the overall standings. Three of the five other test drivers were faster than him and Lane set the bar running nearly 3 tenths faster than Daryl.

JC: I See. How is the chemistry between them?

IP: Lane and Daryl seem to get on well. I think Daryl looks up to Lane a bit and Lane feels comfortable with Daryl as a teammate.

JC: That's what I was afraid of.

IP: How do you mean?

JC: Lane is our driver now. We need someone who is going to push him - push him into the winners circle - not someone to laugh with him when they are battling just to stay in the points. Give Daryl another season as the test driver to keep him in the paddock so Lane has an outlet, but we need someone on track who is going to make Lane better. Daryl just doesnt seem to be there yet.

IP: Possibly true. I think we can convince Cook to put Daryl on the Motorworks team to get him some more seat time. Hopefully he can qualify for more than two races this season. I've not heard anything back from Souzare or Okumura so I'll reach out to Gregori Krupin and see if he's willing to take the seat as a clear #2 in support of Lane

JC: Ok Sounds good, keep me updated.

[Sorlovia]

Krupin Bungalow, Sorlovia

KRUPIN ACCEPTS RACE EELANDII VTGP OFFER

It seemed that patience had paid off at last. The wait had been far from a pleasant one. Not knowing if you would be racing was never easy for a racer. An offer from Race Eelandii VTGP was something a racer didn’t pass it if it came their way. They were a very well-known top tier team with an immense reputation in the industry. Gregori didn’t need to think twice about it. He was going to race with Race Eelandii in WGPC19.

To: ipalmstii@raceeelandii.tur
From: Gregori Krupin (GKrupin@expressmail.com)

I hope this email finds you well,

Thank you for your offer of the number two seat with Race Eelandii VTGP. I would be honoured to accept and am humbled that you have chosen me. I look forward to getting to know your team in the course of the season and I will race to the very best of my abilities. I promise that you won't regret giving me this opportunity.

It is going to be a privilege to race with your team.

Sincerely,
Gregori Krupin

A race team had a great many things to consider when signing a racer. They had to look at results from testing, they had to consider who would fit in best with their team and sometimes just had to make a judgment call. There were plenty of risks involved and it wasn't always a case of taking the racer who got the best time in testing. A racer's past performance, team membership and even personality were all considered. Would the racer fit well with the racer they had signed already? A wise team, like Race Eelandii VTGP had been doing, carefully considered all its options and made a deliberate choice.

The relief that he felt from now being assured a place on a team was immense. It felt like a huge weight had been lifted from his shoulders. He wanted to race. There were few things he enjoyed more than being out on the track amid the other cars. It was in his blood. He'd quietly hoped that he'd get the offer from Race Eelandii but a niggling part of him had doubted it. They'd been his first choice in team. Sure, he had entertained the idea of Tropicorp for a moment. But Race Eelandii had always been his first choice. He'd studied the team and it's history carefully. Racing with them was a dream come true.

"See," Elena said with a soft smile "I told you that it'd work out. A number two seat with Eelandii!"

"The waiting is excruciating," he replied "I'd hoped that I might get an offer from Race Eelandii but I'd begin to doubt it. They are one of the leading teams after all. This really is a dream come true!"

[Togonistan]

WGPC Pre Season Test #3
Mount Fesmos Circuit, Caldwell, Tumbra

''Excellent lap Ted, excellent lap!'' Xander said over the radio as the Tumbran had just crossed the finish line with a time of 01:33.365, putting him to the top. The whole pre-season testing period had been rather positive for Kaylan. The first test in Hwoarang, on the team's home soil, had gone really well. While the news were full of talk about Kaylan afterwards and some headlines already dared to call them title contenders this season, the result in Hwoarang was actually quite expected. After all, the circuit was very familiar for both the team and the drivers. Also, the T180 was, much like the old T170, built with high straight line speed in mind. And long straights were something that Hwoarang didn't have a lack of. With a track that suit the car, drivers familiar with the circuit and grandstands full of fans, it was a no-brainer to go for a glory run in front of the team's home crowd. After the following test in Diarcesia, where the team had mostly focused on acquiring additional data about the car's behaviour in twisty chicanes (with reasonably satisfying results), Xander would've rather shot himself in the leg than deny Ted a chance to shine in front of his home crowd. Hence, with a few minutes left to go in the second session, the team had fit a set of softest compound tyres under car number 88 and sent the Tumbran out for a fast lap. It seemed that the local fans enjoyed it as a choir of whistles was being heard all around the circuit after Ted's lap time popped up on the timing screens.

''Nice job Tiger,'' Manu said and fist bumped Ted as the latter climbed out of his car. Meanwhile, Xander talked with engineers and analysed the data they had acquired. Overall, after race simulations in the first session, both cars had shown decent times in the second one, where they had set the cars into quali setups. Anola .372 behind Ted, managed to at large match Ted's pace throughout the session, before Ted was allowed his moment of glory. Xander looked further down the timing tables and noticed the two TMW cars at bottom. Were they sandbagging? Were they legitimately lacking pace in here? Xander didn't know the answer, but it was no secret that he had kept a close eye on Kaylan's old WGP2 rivals throughout the whole testing period.

Kaylan Racing Team Press Conference
Caldwell, Tumbra

Few hours after the test, Kaylan was giving a short press conference near the circuit. With lights flashing as the journalists were taking pictures, Xander took his seat behind a long table set up on the stage. Sitting alongside were drivers Ted Pressley and Anola Melani, as well as the team's Chief Technical Officer Manu Tavatoa. After a brief introduction, mics were open and the press started asking their questions.

''Jake Malala from Tgsports. Mr. Mahakipare, the team has shown some solid pace throughout the pre-season phase. With teams like TRÆ, Badai Angin, Eelandii, Carvenlo and many others in WGPC, does it give the team confidence knowing you can match the pace of your rivals as you head into season?''

''Well, pre-season testing is something that hardly gives an accurate picture of what is going on. What I can say is that we have used the expertise of our engineers in developing the best car we can for the season. And, I mean it, the T180 is definitely the best car I have ever seen from Kaylan. When we look at the technical data the team has gathered during these tests as well as the development process prior to it, I believe we have a fairly competitive package. However, as I said, the pre-season tests hardly give an accurate picture of where teams stand and everyone will get a better picture after the first race Liventia.''

''Cheryl Lawrence from The Competition. Ted, what did it feel like driving in front of your home crowd today and what are your hopes for this season?''

Ted adjusted the microphone in front of him and leant forward. ''It felt great driving here today. Just a little bit sad that we won't get a Tumbran Grand Prix this season but yeah, it was nice nevertheless. My goal, um... do the best I can and bring as many points for the team and myself as I can.''

''Chromatik Sports Network. Anola, you're the first Chromatik driver in WGPC. What would you say to the young men and women hoping to follow in your footsteps and, one day, get as far as you have?''

''I would say, if you have an interest and passion for it, keep working on it. It will take time and dedication and it is important to have someone by your side to support you, that sport is a team game. Find the right people to help you and if you put your mind to it, you can do it!''

''Lucius Maldini from WGPC World Magazine. I took some time to visit your website and read that Kaylan describes themselves as a team where young minds and fresh ideas are accompanied by years of experience. As we all know, Kaylan has been working with young drivers throughout the seasons. My question is, what was the thought process when you picked your drivers and when you entered WGPC, were there any thoughts to bring a more experienced driver on board or were Ted and Anola always your first choices?''

Xander put his finger up. ''I'll answer this one. For the whole Kaylan family, youth development has always been a high priority. When we started working on our WGPC plans, we considered the choices we had available for us and had various scenarios in mind. However, Anola and Ted were our first choice right from the start. The team has had a very good work relationship with both of them, I'm glad they put their faith in Kaylan and I'm happy to work with them again. They both are world class drivers, they have proven their worth in WGP2 and after the title they brought us last season, Kaylan would've been crazy to not re-sign them.''

''Eunike Tautu from Ultrasports Network. Xander, the team has had an incredible run recently. Ted Pressley has been dominating the pre-season tests in your car... is Ted your priority driver this season?''

''Priority driver? Mm... if you mean which of our drivers holds the first driver status, then the answer is simple. Our first driver is whoever is currently ahead in the race. If Ted has a better chance to bring home the points we need, it's him. If Anola is currently ahead, it's her. Personally, I don't like putting my eggs into a single basket and if I would do that, it would mean I'm an absolute moron and wouldn't know a thing about motorsports. They're both our drivers in WGPC, they are equally important and with all due respect, I would appreciate if the press would stop asking loaded questions like that, thank you very much.''

''Jason Tuputala from TNTV. I have a question about Kaylan's academy drivers. Earlier this week, Darian Vilau and David Findlay were announced to be driving for Domerton for the upcoming season of WGP2. My question is, what role, if any, do they have in Kaylan's WGPC team for this season?''

Manu opened his mouth: ''I believe Niko Ausage, our head of development program could give you more information regarding their status. However, since he's not present, I'll try to answer, um... as it stands, we have reached an agreement that Darian Vilau will be filling the role of our official test driver for the upcoming season. He has already been a part of T180's development process along with Ted and Anola and he'll fill his duties as our test and development driver alongside his WGP2 campaign. When it comes to David Findlay, he will get a development driver role in the team and get his time with the simulator as part of his deal.''

''Thank you ladies and gentlemen, with that, we wrap up the conference.''

---

WGPC Pre Season Test #3
Mount Fesmos Circuit, Caldwell, Tumbra

''Dom, that's the end of session. End of session. Scenario 1, return to the pits.''

Dom Falepeau smiled under his helmet as he heard these words from his race engineer through the radio. Less than a week ago, he had been wondering whether he would even get to drive in WGPC this season. However, in the end, everything had worked out. After an e-mail exchange with Tauro, they had agreed that Dom would meet up with the team in Tumbra. Once his plane had landed, things had went rather quickly. First, taking a taxi to Mount Fesmos Circuit. Then, meeting up with Tauro to get the contract signed. Few handshakes later, it was official and Dom walked to the paddock as a driver for Badai Angin Tim Motorsport. Driving the BAP003 around Mount Fesmos felt oddly calming, felt like... home. Dom had missed the feeling that goes through one's bones when pushing the throttle in a WGPC car. Flying around the circuit, feeling the calming voice of your race engineer in your ears... it was what he had been missing.

Once Dom had pulled back into the pit lane and got his car pushed into the garage, he climbed out and went over the feedback they had gotten out of the session. Overall, the first session had been mainly spent on him getting the feel of the track and the car. The second session had already gone better. Slowly but steadily, he had improved his lap times throughout the session, with Dom's last lap leaving him .530 seconds behind Ted Pressley on top. Of course, the lack of experience with the car was holding him back a lot and Dom hoped he'd get a hang of it all sooner, rather than later. Getting signed with the team during last minute, when most of other teams already had their line-ups settled, meant he would have less time to do testing before the first race weekend. Still, all that mattered right now was that he was back on the WGPC grid. And that needed celebrating. Having spoken to the engineers, Dom brought out his phone and took a selfie in the garage to share with his followers on social media.

Dom Falepeau
@DomFalepeauOfficial

October 17th, 2021

---

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Official pre-season test with @BadaiAnginTim done! Excited to work with them and drive alongside @RustyIbuna71 for the upcoming season of WGPC! #WGPC #BadaiAnginTim

[Sorlovia]

Volstoy Test Circuit, Sorlovia

He would race with Race Eelandii VTGP in WGPC19.

The wait had been excruciatingly stress inducing. But it hadn’t been spent idly. Every evening Gregori had taken to the nationally famous Volstoy Test Circuit to continue his intensive training regime that he’d instituted as a non-negotiable commitment. He needed to keep his technique well-honed and his skills sharp. Complacency just wasn’t an option. He would not allow himself to grow rusty simply because he’d slacked in his regime. He would not allow himself to grow rusty at all. He’d been using his car from the last year’s Sorlovian Gran Prix to take part in nightly training laps around the track. It was his commitment to his career as a Gran Prix racer.

Being signed to Race Eelandii only meant that he needed to train harder. In addition he would step up his vigorous physical training sessions as well. Because in order to get the most of the car that he would be driving he needed to be in peak physical shape. The experience inside the cockpit of those cars demanded that a driver be physically up to the task. That they be ready to react within a second to any change on the track or quirk of the car. Gregori would not let Race Eelandii down. When the first race of the season came he would be ready. His skills would be sharp and his technique would not be found lacking. He had to do his very best for his team. There was no slacking off and no taking it easy. He would give it everything he had.

“This is where I belong,” he said with a smile “there’s no better feeling!”

“I told you you’d get a place on the circuit,” Sergei replied with a chuckle “now on this next lap you need to try easing into the corners and opening up with the throttle as you came out the other side.”

Sergei Lenkov was Gregori’s race chief when he was home in Sorlovia. The ex-Gran Prix driver never went easy on him. The older Sorlovian saw the potential in him and his raw skill. Going easy on him would do nothing but dampen his potential and jeopardize the future of his career. No, a hard hand was what was needed. Even though Gregori already took his training extremely seriously. He needed to be pushed to get more out of himself and the car he was working with. There would not be even a single moment of taking it easy. They’d both agreed upon that. Gregori wanted to be the very best he could. His technique was always being tweaked and his skills adapted to ensure that he was able to provide the best performance possible.

“Race Eelandii is going to be counting on you,” Sergei said into the radio “you need to push harder. It’s time to get serious about this Gregori. The car can take it and so can you. Now lean into the next corner.”

Gregori leaned the car into the corner as he entered and used its own momentum to slingshot out the other side in his signature manoeuvre. This resulted in a great amount of g-force coming out the other side and an impressive amount of speed. This allowed him to get the most of the car without pushing it too hard as well as making the straights his advantage. He'd always done well on tracks that used corners that flowed into straights. Such layouts lent themselves very well to his way of driving. Four more laps and he'd call it a night. No, maybe six.

Lane would not find an easy-going teammate in Gregori. When it came to raceday and being out on the track Gregori was entirely serious. Bad results were an opportunity to learn but they were not something to coast on or joke about. He would push Lane hard and would expect to be pushed in the same way. Gregori was very friendly and jovial. He would get on well with lane off and on the track. But when he was out there on that beloved asphalt he was unfailingly serious. Good times and laughs were for after the race. When you were in the race you had a job to do and you had to do to the very best of your abilities. Anything less was a betrayal of who you were as a racer.

Gregori was looking forward to getting to know Lane better. He'd watched him with great interest in WGPC18 and had carefully studied his technique. He hoped they would be able to have some downtime together in the race lounge between racers. In those quiet moments Gregori's natural charm and easy-going nature would reveal themselves. Those were the moments when he was "off duty".

[TJUN-ia]

Race Eelandii! VTGP HQ
Eelandii, Turori
Days Before WGPC19 Round 1 (Liventia)

Here he was, back to that bloody journal like the scunnered dafty he was. You knew things were bad when Lane Carter's Southern Galarian accent was coming out, even in his thoughts too. A lot of stuff had happened before, during and after the 3rd WGPC Test at the Mount Fesmos Circuit in Caldwell, Tumbra - nation getting onto the TJUN-ian conscious thanks in no part to Ted Pressley, Steven Kerr and Trudy Harrison. So where do we even start?

Well...how about the test itself. Driver #2 was somehow in the air even after all that time, so the tag team of Carter and Mizushima would continue for this final test. Session 1 was mainly all about testing out long run pace and strategy, which explained why Lane was dead last at lunch and 4.5 seconds back. Laura Haukanna took the session over Will Archer and iBen himself but Mizu (why are you still saying that?!) wasn't too far off the pace in 13th, only 1.1 seconds down. Session 2 was like a grand finale to all the programs and the car was definitely put to the test here, with Lane ending up in 10th and Mizu in 16th, both within a second of the pace set by Pressley himself. Rudy Edwards and Olivia Stone completed the final testing top 3 and all in all, the feeling around REVTGP was generally nice heading into the preparations for the 1st Round of the new season at the Talbott Autodrome in Liventia.

But #2 still had to be resolved and that meant goodbye and hello. Mizu's heading back to the Motorworks for development's sake and in comes the experienced, but hard-pressing Gregory Krupin of Sorlovia. Lane is, of course, looking forward to getting to know Mr Krupin over the next few months...but the goodbye e-mail Daryl sent him stung a bit. "Lane, I know what's going through your mind." - oh, if you only knew mate. "And maybe someday, somewhere, we will do what you and I want to do." - is that so? He doesn't know the full story...but to be fair, Lane wasn't sure either. What his mind going on about is a question Lane was scared to even answer at this point and while he did send emails to both Gregory and Daryl, one had a bit more to say than the other.

But there was another reason why Lane was consulting the journal once again: the sequel to that dreaded dream had finally manifested in his bloody head. He wasn't sure how he was going to get through this season alive if this dream connected to his heart...

---

To: Gregori Krupin (GKrupin@expressmail.com)
From: Lane Carter (lcarter@jagwire.tj.un)
Subject: A Galarian Welcome

---

Dear Mr Krupin,

Hello to you! My name is Lane Carter and, if memory serves me right, you should be my new teammate for the upcoming season. All I can say is congrats and welcome aboard! Race Eelandii! is certainly a good environment to be in so don't be afraid to ask me or anyone else any burning questions you may have.

You may well know that I'm supposed to be the #1 driver for this season but to be perfectly honest, I fully expect to be on equal pegging with a driver as brilliant as yourself. You have a lot more experience at this game than I do and I've never been classified as a #1 before, so don't expect me to treat you like an inferior. It's the TJUN-ian philosophy that states that I aim to be friends with all my colleagues, so I look forward to finally meeting you and seeing where we lie from there.

All in all, I'll see you soon and hopefully, we combined can bring success to this team!

Kind Regards,
Lane Carter
#11 Race Eelandii! Vilita and Turori GP

To: Daryl Mizushima (dmizushima@squidmail.sqr)
From: Lane Carter (lcarter@jagwire.tj.un)
Subject: RE: I'm Sorry

---

Hi Daryl, me again.

I'm sorry I couldn't be sending you an email, just like the good old days, under better circumstances, but I understand that the WGPC is a machine that never waits for anyone. First of all, well done on actually getting a racing seat for this season! I know it's the Motorworks again and we both know how that went last time out but maybe, this time will be different. You're a different driver from last season and I fully expect you to get in a few more races this season. Trust me, you are fucking brilliant and don't ever forget that!

You may have indeed read part of my mind during our testing adventure, but I guess I always knew that this season was going to be a big ask. I feel my bosses want me to be pushed by my teammate and not brothers from other mothers, and I guess I can understand that. They see me as a project and I guess I need to be better, but I hope that one day the both of us can stand side by side and race as one. I'm not talking about like JR, but maybe like GFR? I guess that's close enough, I think.

Of course, my inbox will always be open for you so if there is anything in your mind, just come and tell me. I do hope we can meet in person at some point once again, but I understand if getting back into the Motorworks groove is more of a concern right now.

Once again, good luck and I hope to see you on the podium with me in due course.

Kind Regards,
Lane Carter
#11 Race Eelandii! Vilita and Turori GP

---

The following is a reconstruction of a dream had by Lane Carter, as written in his journal before the WGPC19 Season Opener. He himself cannot explain what the meaning of it all is...or maybe, he doesn't want to admit that he understands. This is the sequel to the previous dream he's had before, but he still doesn't understand why...

I was hiding in plain sight, as a security guard for the Darkness
The mission was simple: infiltrate the base and return him back to me.
I had dealt with a fellow guard in order to get this uniform and I knew that I would be found out soon enough.
I had an aura of confidence around me...which is totally not me, at all.

The plan worked out brilliantly.
I staged the removal of the prisoner for a "walk".
I then got both of us to an escape raft discreetly, trying my best not to draw attention to either of us.
He asked where I was taking him, but I had to say nothing.
I then turned on the engine and rode off into the night, looking like the badass I never will become.

As soon as we were far enough away to be considered in international waters, I took off my helmet.
I said, "It's OK, I'm here now. There's nothing to worry about now.".
He ran straight into my arms and we just hugged for a while.
The thoughts in my head were telling me to go further, to reach some "2nd base" I've never heard of before.
I didn't know what that was, so I just didn't.

That would turn out to be a mistake.
Suddenly, I was shot from afar with a dart gun and was sent to sleep.
All I could hear as I collapsed into slumber was him, calling my name just like I called his long ago.
It was only then, as I fell into sleep, that I realised what the 2nd Base was.

Is this really true?
How is this possible?
I mean...I know TJUN-ia would support me...but would he? Would Squidroidia?
I just don't know...I really don't know.
My head is full of thoughts I didn't want...but here they were, telling me about #63.
Maybe 63 is lucky after all...or maybe this is a curse. A multicoloured curse.

Surely...I cannot...be like this.
I...don't...want to lose...him
I don't want to lose...what we have.
Am I just...Michael Stefan...in Galarian form?

I don't know anymore.
I don't know what to think anymore.
Please, someone, help me.
Help me before I go mad.

[Auruna]

Mount Fesmos Circuit, Tumbra
Pre-Season Test 3
Session 1
Due to minor setbacks, Laura arrived at the venue exhausted. She currently is sitting somewhere at the back of the garage with a cup of coffee. While she wants to go out on track, she is unable to do so immediately after the session starts, she had to recover with permission from Aldauren. After finishing one cup of coffee, she rests her head on the table and tries to take a nap but wasn't feeling too comfortable. She tries to find a nice, comfortable place to nap that is until she made her way under the table after laying down a blanket she borrowed from Juno, she was able to take a nap.

A few minutes after the session started Erik is now looking for Laura as he was told to get her out on track and put a few laps in just in case. He looks around the back of the garage, wondering where Laura went after not finding her on the chair. Then he gets the idea of looking under things and sure enough, he stumbles upon Laura asleep under the table. He shakes her to wake her up. "Oi Laura, ärükkäät." (Hey Laura, wake up.)

"Augh.. what is it?"

"We just need you to do a few laps out there. Just a few and you can go nap again."

"Fiiine."

"Alright, get your helmet and let's go."

Laura agreed to doing a few laps, she gets up and accidentally hits her head on the table. Ow... Erik then helps her up and guides her to her car. Laura does the usual preparations then hops into her car. Then Aina comes to life with the rumble of the Sidus. And finally, comes the signal to head out.

"Laura, you can take it easy, you don't need to push."

"Nah, I'll get you your data."

After her out-lap, Laura guns it and pushes as hard as she can, in a hurry to return for a nap. She keeps topping the sectors lap after lap. After a few laps, she is a the top of the time sheets with the fastest time of the session. After that brief moment of energy, she slowly heads back to the pits.

"Your fastest was 1:33.48, fastest of the session and you're currently purple all sectors. Good work out there! You deserve that nap."

"Ahh... I can't wait."

"Go on, get her back safely and you can rest for the remainder of the session until... well, until Aldauren needs you out there again."

"Copy."

Laura stops at the pits and her car is wheeled into the garage. After the mechanics set the car down, Laura gets out, takes off her helmet and HANS and immediately head to her spot under the table.

[Diarcesia]

Mount Fesmos Circuit
Caldwell, Tumbra
Pre-Season Test Three

With the conclusion of session two, the pre-season nightmare is over; the anxiety over the actual races is about to begin. Aldauren Ginintella is aware that a few mishaps here and there would bring their team to a new kind of nightmare.

Trying to make as much micro-sleep as he can, he closes his eyes for a few seconds, waiting for new information to refresh on the myriad of screens in mission control. Recently, his dreams in the few hours of sleep he could manage are mostly empty, but it is fine to him. Overall, he feels content with the results PB is getting so far. He is currently in the process of going through the one more debriefing with the staff, and especially Laura, Dario, and Sam (who concluded a final glory run before putting her attention to WGP2). The team principal finds comfort that his vision of fostering a higher standard of care and a more conducive culture around him are coming to fruition.

[Hodori Motorsports]

Sayono Souzare will accept the motorworks seat offer.

[Nico Hulkenberg]

Caldwell
Tumbra

Dario finished the final testing session in 22nd position, following a run on both a harder compound of tyres and high fuel. He was only 1.35 seconds off of Pressley’s time which, considering the setup he was running, could be a decent sign of things to come. As has been shown time and time again, however, testing pace does not always mean race pace - so he didn’t get his hopes up just yet. For now, he kept himself humble, setting himself a goal of “consistent points” for the season. Heck, he only had two points scoring finishes last season, so any more than that and he’d be delighted.

*brrrrrring brrrrrring*

Dario looked at his phone. It was Jöhan.

”Hey, Jö! How’s things?”

“Brilliant, to be honest. I was just watching your performances in testing and I saw that eye-catching livery that your car has on track - it’s beautiful.”

“Oh, I’ll send your compliments over to the rest of the tea-“

“That beautiful, beautiful HMG logo…”

“…is that really your favourite bit of it?”

“Of course it is! Why wouldn’t it be? We paid for that, we’ll admire it as much as we like!”

“Fair, fair.”

“I mean, it’s quite small, but as long as it’s there we’re delighted.”

“If you’d paid the team more money, you might have had a bigger logo. Deal with it.”

“We paid them plenty! We don’t skimp out on these things, Dario!”

“Y’know, Aldauren did actually tell me how much the sponsorship was wo-“

“He’s lying.”

“You’re hardly paying anything compared to some of the other sponsors!”

“Not my fault. Blame the CEO, he’s the one who keeps cutting the budget.”

“You can’t just provide sponsorship money in the form of cars - especially when the team itself is a car company!”

“If they want H16s, they’ll have H16s. They’re the best hatchback on the Hülkenberger market, and I’m sure the guys at the team will all love them.”

“Yeah, the best hatchback in HÜLKENBERG. It’s an entirely different ball game in Diarcesia, Jöhan! The H16 is heavily outdated there, it’s old news!”

“Oh, shush. It’s beautiful, it’s the pinnacle of Hülkenberger engineering, and it’s brilliant at off-road racing. End of.”

“You know fine well that the rally edition blew itself to bits more tha-“

“LA LA LA LA LA LA LA! What’s that? I can’t hear you! You must be breaking up on my end, goodbye!”

*click*

”Always a cheap one, Jöhan was.” thought Dario. He wasn’t sure how PB-Viska would take being paid in hatchbacks, especially the H16. The car was a shitbox, and it only really sold well in Hülkenberg because it was the only option of hatchback out there, especially at that price point. (But we’re not here to talk about hatchbacks, we’re here to talk about racing - so let’s get back to that.)

The post-testing debrief with Aldauren went quite well, with the team principal complimenting his pace on the long runs. Both he and Dario had further discussions about the car’s true pace, and whether or not he could possibly go a bit faster - Dario concurred that he could definitely go faster, but he wasn’t quite sure how he would go about that, not yet anyway. Nevertheless, both he and his teammate had impressed in testing, and Dario hoped that the promising pace would continue into the race. (knowing Dario, he’ll probably bin it into the wall on his first lap, the bottle merchant.)