WGP2 Season 4 – RP/results thread

[Diarcesia]

Siv Ingesson

"I'm not the only one who feels that. A few more laps, more breaks, more practice for our drivers to get used to the car."

Aldauren is right. I must admit, I was a bit surprised with the performance. I didn't expect that when they decided to floor it, the two drivers he decided to pick could produce a lap time that fast. Indra in Raichovsky, Laura in Yogyakulta.

He asked, "So you feel the same way?"

"Yeah, totally, Laura and Indra are both WGP2 rookies. But I'm glad to hear that they seem to be handling it well. I couldn't complain if they return the cars in one piece."

"We're all in the same boat, we need to fix our errors or else the team will suffer."

---

Yogyakulta International Circuit
Pre-season Test

"Sorry if the gearbox drama was a chunk heavy for you, Aldauren. As you can see, both drivers no longer complain about them."

Aldauren nodded with satisfaction on Louis's assessment. They watched the pit stop practice for a while, the wind picking up some strands of the team principal's hair. In the corner of his eye, he recognized something was amiss in one of Laura's tires as she drove off to make way for Indra during a particular double-stack attempt.

"No... stop, stop, stop. Stop it please," he said forcefully out of instinct. In his many years of racing, he could tell.

The crew stared blankly at him over the interruption. Indra's tires were just replaced.

"I need you to look at Laura's rear right tire."

They hesitated and looked at each other.

Aldauren made his point across calmly but sternly. "Now."

One of them ran to Laura's car and inspected the wheel in question.

"Shit, it's loose, Aldauren."

"It's loose, correct. You there, look at the same on Indra's car."

Another checked the same spot on the #35 PF-1. "Also loose, sir."

"Are we gonna get both of them retired in a race? We need to talk about what went wrong and then let's try it again with the corrections, should we?"

[348 words]

[Pratapgadh]

Pre-season Test Two!
Wrote In First-Person As Indra Vartak

Here we are in Yogyakulta, Filindostan as we prepared for the second pre-season test. We were getting closer to our first race so we needed to stay on the track for as much time as possible so we are fresh and ready for the race. Our team took care of Laura's gearbox issue and it looked like things were going great.

Laura and I had a quick talk with Aldauren before we got in our vehicles. I was energetic today, knowing that I would see my sister very soon. Like last time, Aldauren instructed us to make sure we get as much time as possible on the track and get as many laps in. Of course, each of us also got a free lap to get the best time possible. Laura and I got a bit to know about each other and our families. I came from a lower-class village family who moved to the city of Mumbai when I was two years old. This also made things hard for me as a child.

Though we had no time to waste, we both got in our vehicles and we got the green signal from Aldauren. We were off to our first session.

First Test Session
The first session went great, we got the job done and got a lot of data. Last time, I got the best time in the first session and that felt amazing. This time, it was Laura Haukanna. Her fastest lap was 1:44.576, top of the table, amazing! I wasn't too bad, getting a decent 1:45.270 as my fastest lap and ended up eleventh on the table out of the twenty drivers who took part in the session today. So everything went fine in the first session, the team was happy, Laura was happy and so was I. We had the potential of putting up a fight with the bigger and more established teams. This season is going to be epic. I got the sign and came back to the pits. I entered the garage with staff giving me a pat on the back saying "good job out there." I joined Haukanna and her two sisters as they had their bread and coffee break. I was offered this thing called, Kuurami? I had no idea what that was, but I tried it anyway. I loved trying out new stuff and it's good to get used to foreign food as much as I miss the food prepared by my mother. She had hands of gold. I guess I might share some of our cultural food as well, maybe Vada Pav? It's a very popular street food back in Mumbai, basically two slices of pav (type of bread), a Batata vada (mashed potato patty), some sweet chutney, green chutney and maybe some dry garlic chutney. Might need to reduce the spice, though.

Second Test Session
The second session also went well for both of us. I timed my fastest lap at 1:55.696, ending up fourteenth on the table. Haukanna, however, timed her fastest lap at 1:55.152 and ended up just in front of me on the table. She was 544 milliseconds in front of me. Again though, we focused on getting as much data as possible. I cannot stress this enough, being first didn't mean much to anyone, the main thing is to prepare for the first race. Laura and I have been doing that very well, so Aldauren was pleased. However, the only issue we had was with the pit crew. Between the first and second session, the pit crew fucked up and we were saved by Aldauren. Somehow, Aldauren noticed something fishy with one of the tires on Laura's car. He stopped both of us immediately and it turned the tires on both our cars were loose. If it wasn't for Aldauren, we would crash and badly damaged the car and ourselves. That moment, I knew we had the best team principal who looked out for us. The pit crew have to step up their game though, we can't have any errors like these or we could fuck up big time during the race.

The day went well, we got the data and were looking forward to the third pre-season testing. Just one more to go and we will finally have our first race event of the season. PB-Viska can be a true competitor this season, we just need to fix a few things and we will be ready.

---

My Sister Is Here!
Wrote In First-Person As Indra Vartak

After waiting for so many days, she's finally here. My sister, Garima Vartak, finally arrived at the airport this morning (we are still in Filindostan). I went to pick her up and she was excited to finally get to see me in the PB-Viska car. It is going to be an exciting adventure for her, far away from home.

"Oh my god! It's so good to see you again! How's Mr Chauhan!" - Garima Vartak

"तो चांगला आहे. आम्ही इतके दिवस तुमची वाट पाहत होतो. चला घरी जाऊ या आणि फ्रेश होऊ या." - Indra Vartak ("He's good. We have been waiting for you for so long. Let's get home and freshen up.")

"होय, चला!" - Garima Vartak ("Yes, let's go!")

We went back to our hotel as we were staying for the night and prepare to leave for Vilita & Turori. Our next pre-season testing was at a place called Cocoabo Park in the Cocoabo Forest. The place is quite interesting and has quite a rich history in motorsports. Garima would be there to cheer me on as I drive around the track for hours.

Garima Vartak is currently 18 years old, she too wants to be a race car driver like me. She used to watch me on the track when I was in the Mumbai Racing Academy. Sadly, she never got the same opportunity as me to become a driver, but at least she gets to see me again and learn more about WGP2.

I think it will be a great idea to introduce her to Laura and her sisters, they might make some new friends there.

We will see then, right now I should get some rest as we leave for Vilita & Turori tomorrow.

---

Words - 1051

[TJUN-ia]

Yogyakulta International Circuit
Yogyakulta, Filindostan
After Test Session 2 of Test 2

Here he was, finally in the world of WGP2 and looking to prove his worth to the international racing scene. Batu Tüvshinbayar, the next generation of TJUN-ian open-wheel racing, had found a team in Nykipiflugpuun Noortekoondis and now, with teammate Lukas Fichter by his side, he was ready to make Shinebaishin proud as he arrived in Yogyakulta for the 2nd Pre-Season Test of the campaign. The main aim of his time in Filindostan was pretty simple: try and learn as much as he could about his WGP2 car throughout both test sessions today without making a complete fool of himself.

It was perfectly dry for Batu's first taste of NN's WGP2 car on a circuit that was tight and twisty in some areas and flowing in others. He knew he wouldn't be the best out there by far as a green driver to this car, so he spent most of Session 1 getting used to how his new toy handled everything that came its way. It certainly was a struggle at times, which showed in him being 2 seconds off Laura Haukanna's pace in 19th, but with Fitcher up in 5th, Batu knew that he could do so much better in that 2nd Session. The 2nd Session would see some light rain come into play and make Batu test his wet-weather running for the very first time. It was a struggle at times for sure, but ending up 9th overall was certainly a good sign and especially as Fitcher was top dog, only 6 tenths ahead of the Mongolian. Things were certainly looking up for Batu after his first WGP2 test came to an end.

As he prepared to travel to Cocoabo Park for the 3rd and final test, he thought about what was in store for him over the course of this new season. Would he rise to the location and put up a good display over the many races he will drive, or will be pressure be too great for the 18-year-old to handle? Whatever happened from now on, he felt it best to make sure he treated the rest of the grid with respect and so, just before he moved out, he made sure to send a note to the other 19 drivers on the grid with a simple message of sportsmanship for the rest of the season...

Hello there,
My name is Batu Tüvshinbayar.

I'm writing to you to wish you good luck with this season of WGP2.
I'm looking forward to competing with you and I hope that you drive your best races out there throughout the season.

See you on the track!

- Batu

[Nykipiflugpuu]

---

Yogyakulta, Filindostan

With the lineup for Nykipiflugpuun Noortekoondis' WGP2 season already settled, and following the team's strong showing in the season's first official test, Tropicorp Racing Ælund team principal Edvin Pekkanen travelled to Filindostan to fill a support role to Nykipish team principal Kaidi Enni Saino-Iakkyy. As over 90 percent of the team's technical and operational staff is Abovian, with only some of the mechanics and operational personnel being Nykipish, Pekkanen's presence was intended to ensure that intra-team communication was coming through efficiently and that operations were running smoothly.

To his surprise, Nykipiflugpuun Noortekoondis was running like a well oiled machine. The small handful of Nykipish mechanics had undergone a lengthy training period back at Lintulahti during the development process of the Æ-1NP, and through clear documentation and a set of determined keywords and phrases to facilitate communication between the Abovians and the Nykipiks, the process of tweaking setups and preparing both cars for their runs has been greatly simplified.

Even better, despite being an operation endorsed and funded by the state of Nykipiflugpuu, the watchful eyes of their central government didn’t seem to have had their glare fixed on the team’s proceedings. Kaidi, who’d never directly expressed her concerns of the Nykipish government attempting to claim further control of the team despite making such a possibility known, seemed relaxed and well in control of Nykipiflugpuun Noortekoondis during their first two-car WGP2 test; despite her limited experience in anything outside of her home country, her self-taught fluency in Abovian and English helped in securing the former ice racer’s authority over her team, without needing hands-on assistance from Edvin. Proof that Kaidi’s strong, discreet leadership worked was clear, with Lukas Fichter setting the fastest time in half of the testing sessions thus far, in different weather conditions, and Batu Tüvshinbayar cracking the top 10 in a session marred by light showers, excellent for putting the Ælund Racing machine to the test.

With the virtual Tropicorp Racing Ælund youth team, seemingly, safely under control, Edvin was able to divert his attention to an email received from Fireline Racing, of Ethane. As a team with previous pedigree in WGPC, and links to Tropicorp Racing Ælund’s main partner in the shape of an engine deal for season 18 of the main grand prix racing series, the interest displayed by Fireline in signing one of Vilita and Turori’s free agent drivers for the fourth season of WGP2 was excellent news. Even though he acted in representation of Tropicorp Racing Ælund, his attempt at accommodating a seat for either Jama’obo Pegasii or Skiia Vialiv had been a personal bid to mend the tricky situation caused by Nykipiflugpuun Noortekoondis’ surprise signing of Tüvshinbayar.

Out of all the teams contacted in the initial message, Fireline had certainly seemed the most appropriate partner. Even though the final word in the deal would have to arrive from Atlantian Oceania’s drivers, Edvin replied positively to the Ethanians’ contact, confirming his own interest in sealing a deal with Fireline Racing to sign either Pegasii or rookie Vialiv. As part of the deal, in addition to bringing with them their own backing, Tropicorp Racing Ælund offers additional funding and technical assistance to Fireline Racing, to ensure the Ethanian outfit’s first foray into WGP2 is successful. Through this technical partnership, the possibility arises to permit a greater degree of cooperation between Fireline and TRÆ in the WGPO’s main category going forwards.

[Siovanija and Teusland]

Yogyakulta, Filindostan

“Alright Heinz, we’d like to run the quali sim again one more time before the end of the session, show us what you can do out there,” came the voice of Oliver Werich in Heinz-Otto Junker’s ear as the two men reviewed lap times put up by both the TMW car and of the other teams here at the second WGP2 preseason test in Filindostan.

“My favourite part,” said Heinz with a smile as his engineer nodded back. The nod was less of a ‘yes, we agree’ than a ‘hurry up please’, and Heinz took notice and hustled along without saying a word.

He’d gotten accustomed to the circuit here, and he found it suited him - a track that required a bit more aggression from the driver, a bit more commitment to going all-out. That was what Heinz-Otto Junker loved, that was why he had wanted to be a racing driver.

Of course, he was always going to be involved in this world somehow, with his father being a former driver and all. But Junker was the sort of person who, even if he had been born to relative nobodies, would’ve likely been drawn to motorsport regardless. When he was a kid, he always pushed his bike to the limits, and suffered more than a few cuts and bruises for it. It was about being the fastest for him, nothing else would do.

His father’s career ended when Heinz-Otto was just 3, meaning he had no real memories of watching his father race in Siovanija & Teusland’s championship. His father had not had much of a memorable career regardless. Of course, however, when you are born into such an exclusive club, you usually stay a part of it, and Junker the younger was destined to be a driver from the very beginning. The fact he turned out so much better than his father was a combination of good fortune, talent, hard work, and perhaps that love of being on the edge that seemed to drive him.

As he pulled the car around the track on the outlap, he had a good feeling about the car’s performance so far at the test. Last season in the domestic championship he’d found the car to be quite loose in the rear, but the proper adjustments had been made for the WGP2 challenger and he was comfortable as ever. He could tell it was a good lap from the second he came out of turn 4, and when moments later his engineer radioed in ‘Purple,’ he was overjoyed.

The second sector was a bit more difficult, with a hairpin turn that he wasn’t quite perfect in, and although he managed to pick up time again in sector three, the result was a time that was just .004 off the leader, Laura Haukanna.

“Second fastest time of the session Heinz, second fastest. Excellent lap.”

“Great work guys, car feels awesome, thanks so much.”

Just a few hours later, however, the TMW team would be scrambling to sort things out. The second session took place in light rain conditions, giving them the opportunity to try out the intermediate tyre and also see the car’s performance in the rain. Both Heinz-Otto and his teammate Joy Wingelaar seemed to struggle in the damp conditions, with the car being a bit less comfortable.

“Feels a bit off, guys, something to look into,”

“Heinz, we’d like you to box, box at the end of the lap please.”

Quite a difference from session 1 to session 2: P2 to P12, over a second off the fastest time. Heinz had confidence in his team to work out the issues that had suddenly appeared in the rain, but it wasn’t a very good feeling to have his worst session of testing so far.

Just one testing session remained before the real deal. Did Heinz feel ready for the season? He believed so, but you could never truly know until the lights went out and the truth was revealed. He had another number of laps to put in at the Cocoabo Park Circuit first - and perhaps a prayer that it wouldn’t rain on Sunday in Alikki-Corra.

[Chromatika]

Three Years Ago...

Melani Household
Alnio, Capital District, Chromatika

As she approached her house, Anola Menai couldn't help but be extremely nervous.

She'd done everything on her own. Called her school counselor, told them that she was dropping out of the official program at Alnio University of the Arts and was switching to online so that she could concentrate on her racing career.

It wasn't that she was afraid nor ashamed. She just hated disappointing her parents. It didn't help that it had been a dream since she was a child to take over her father's mechanic business, starting as a consistent partner, then taking over entirely. They had worked on a five year timeline after she got her degree with each other with excruciating detail. Her father had even joked about being her employee, and she knew how much pride that her dad had in the fact that she was going to take over the business.

She had had no idea that racing would take over her life as fast as it had, but there was a joy she found on the track that even eclipsed the joy she found working on vehicles, and she couldn't deny it. The feel of the engine, the turns, the thrill of overtaking someone, the absolute terror when avoiding near-accidents... it was unlike anything else she'd ever experienced, and she knew that if she didn't take the chance to make the most of it that she could, she would regret it.

As usual, she was greeted by her family's two golden retrievers when she came home. Theodore was a bit larger than Matthias, but Matthias was more active and upon her in an instant. Their enthusiasm was appreciated, but meant that there was absolutely no way to sneak into the house.

This resulted in Beatrice Melani and Niles Melani coming to the door, a look of surprise on their faces. It was a Wednesday evening, and she had preferred to stay on campus on weeknights. They knew what was up.

Ten minutes later, as Anola finished her speech on why she needed to do what she had chosen to do, Beatrice Melani looked at her understandingly while Niles Melani crossed his arms. Her heart sank.

"Now, Dad," she started back up again, trying to add on, but he raised his hand to stop her.

"My only question to you, Anola," he said, his tone even, "Is why didn't you let us be involved in any of this? Did you really think we'd be angry at you or disappointed? I've seen what you can do out there on the track, the joy that you've found in it. We've both noticed how the knowledge of engines you've gotten in the shop has translated to you being able to perform out there. Did you really think that we'd be against you doing something else?"

She looked at him, stunned. He noticed the look on her face and shook his head.

"No, Anola," he continued, "I'm only disappointed that you didn't include me in your thoughts and told me afterwards. Thankfully, I agree with all the steps you've taken, so we can at least rest easy that you haven't missed anything. I know we had it as a father-daughter thing from back when you were little to work the shop together. However, it's more important to me that you do what gives you happiness. If that's racing, I'm okay with that. You can always help me out with the shop once your racing career is over."

"Let us help you, sweetee," added her mother.

With tears in her eyes, she reached into a hug with the both of them, and the three Melanis stayed there together for a few minutes.

Since that day, Beatrice Melani and Niles Melani were a part of Anola's racing career.

[Auruna]

VSK Garage
Yogyakulta International Circuit
Pre-season Test
Another test at a new circuit, everyone at VSK was looking forward to it. The tests went smoothly and they even gathered important wet weather data which may help them prepare for those conditions. The only issue the team currently has is the relationship with the drivers. Both Rikikida and Hakusoe are doing well on-track, there's no denying that but that connection wasn't that set in stone yet especially with Rikikida. It was difficult but the team persisted. They don't have the experience with foreign drivers as Viska did but they are slowly but surely getting more in touch with their drivers.

VSK Factory
Sterlennau, Auruna
After the test, the factory went to work on the car for the whole week, improving it bit by bit. some of the parts even came from the VSK aircraft factory at the other side of the country. Martjen, meanwhile, is trying to make that connection with the drivers, trying to avoid that implosion demonstrated by Schkeska - a team was supposed to be united.

Martjen was deep in thought for a while, looking for methods to spark that relationship between the team and the drivers. He knew of a simple one he was unsure what the results will be. He went back to it, thinking that it may work, over and over. It should be worth a try. He then asked for the drivers, Rikikida especially, and Martjen, being Martjen, decided to not waste his time and went to look for them himself. A quick lession about Auruna, her history, language, and culture wouldn't hurt, right?

[Tumbra]

SPORT: TED PRESSLEY talks to THE INDEPENDENT on testing, a new environment, and his hopes with Kaylan Racing Team

Once again, our reporter Janice Woods headed down to Vilita and Turori ahead of the third WGP2 pre-season test to speak to newly-minted Kaylan Racing Team driver TED PRESSLEY, after promising results in the first two pre-season tests. The full text of the interview has been reproduced here, albeit edited for clarity.

JW: Hey, Ted! It's good to be talking again. A lot has certainly happened since the last time we met.

TP: Hello, Janice. Things have moved very fast, yeah. I'm glad that I'm able to sit down with you today. It's a pleasure to be able to speak with someone from home. Testing's been busy so far, and settling into the new routines...I'm appreciative that I was able to sign for Kaylan, who I was fortunate enough to have them recognise my style of driving.

JW: We here back in Tumbra have been following your exploits during testing with a lot of...how do I put this...hype, as the young people would say? And we're all very excited for the season opener.

TP: I am too! I'm glad that people back in Tumbra have been paying attention to me, yknow - racing's not exactly the biggest of sports in Tumbra. I hope that after watching me, people'll be more interested in racing as a whole. We've already got a WGP3 series underway, but viewing figures aren't exactly the best. I'd tell supporters to go watch Tumbran WGP3, and if there's enough interest, perhaps one day we'll be able to host a race in Tumbra as well.

JW: How are you settling in?

TP: I've been settling in great, I feel. The car's been absolutely wonderful to drive, with no mechanical interruptions at all. This upcoming test, I think, will be able to help us determine the strength of our car, and we'll be able to tweak certain things before the season opener in Alikki. But we're confident. Anola, my team-mate, and I, have been putting the car through its paces, and we're quietly confident of what we can do here.

JW: What are your hopes for the season?

TP: It's certainly to go as far as possible up the rankings, and to support the team however I can. We're all here to do the best we can, really, and we're aiming for the top. Our performances are right up there, and we're confident.

JW: Who do you think are your competitors? Could you rank the teams participating for us, please?

TP: On top are definitely NN, from Nykipiflugpuu; Lukas Fichter has been extremely strong for them, and we're all on the lookout for them. Otherwise, I'd say VSK, then us, PrismRiver, Equipo Telebuenas, and Teusschise Motoren Werke. Of course, we're all about the same level, but these are the teams that have stood out throughout the testing period. We've got one new team - Orange Cow - joining us as well, and we're all looking forward to them.

JW: We'll be right alongside you as you take to the track in Vilita and Turori. The race will be broadcast live in Tumbra, and we're all hoping you do well.

TP: Thank you!

[Trans-Dniesters]

"If you won't say it then I will," Konstantin Zakharovich Rezansov said. "I'm very glad that this test is over."

"That is the understatement of the season," Vasily Semyonovich Gatutin muttered as he leaned back in his chair. "Dare I say even, the understatement of the season so far."

"I really wish all of our pain will only come from this test, though," Rezansov said. "But I don't think that will be the case. Taras Gavrilovich has not stopped complaining about this engine ever since the first test session in Raichovsky. He really does not like that Preston engine at all."

"That's understandable," Gatutin said. "Taras Gavrilovich has never driven anything other than an UrGa all his life. He's bound to notice everything that's different. How about our new friend though? The one with the manservant and the old biplane? What does he say?"

"Hang on, I think I've got the notes here," Rezansov said as he shuffled through some of the papers he was holding. "'Jolly old good car for a Bolshie product, pip pip'," he said, reading directly from the notes. "'This thing does need a bit of work in these rainy conditions though, what what.' Well, at least there's one thing that he and I can agree on."

"Oh, really? What are the things that you and Mr. Zoomtwat do not agree on?" Gatutin asked with a raised eyebrow.

"For one thing, Vasily Semyonovich, I don't think I can fully place my trust into someone who refuses to be paid," Rezansov replied.

"You don't like amateurs, Konstantin Zakharovich?"

"Let's just say that there is doubt in my mind if this man from... what was it? A parallel dimension or what? I have my doubts if he is capable of handling a racing car from our times, one with so much complexity Mr. Zoomtwat's contemporaries might consider it downright diabolical," Rezansov said. "And I would have really preferred that we had approached Vialiv instead."

"Zakharich, we already talked about this," Gatutin said, referring to Rezansov by his patronymic and sitting up straight in his chair. "The board and I discussed the merits of offering Skiia Vialiv the second seat, but the board did not believe that we would be Vialiv's first choice. The Vilitan drivers are always a hot commodity in racing series such as these. To avoid the potential embarrassment the board decided to go for Zoomtwat, and I am merely following the decisions of the board."

"I still think a driver like Vialiv would have been more valuable and useful to us if we're continuing to gather data for our possible entry into WGPC, Semyonich," Rezansov countered. "I'm not so sure Zoomtwat can give us as much usable feedback given the time and place he comes from. Also, it doesn't look like Vialiv's found a seat. Perhaps we were too quick to pull the trigger on offering the seat to Zoomtwat."

"Oh, stop being such a loyal Party member, Zakharich," Gatutin waved off. "This is 2030 now, my good man. Who knows, maybe the Major will surprise you. He is right about one thing though. We need to work on improving our pace in wet and changeable conditions. We might just need it in Cocoabo Park."

(540 words, not including these)

[Former Citizens of the Nimbus System]

Nexus Racing HQ, Crossbay Circuit, Nimbus Bay, the Nexus Wardship of Former Citizens of the Nimbus System
2nd of March

There are few people that most of the world would consider ‘celebrities’ in the Nexus Wardship of Former Citizens of the Nimbus System.

“Ah, there you are!”

Tomas Clares takes in the wind blowing at the sash over either of his shoulders as he walks. He offers a smile and a wave as his gaze falls upon his fellow Nimban. “Coalessa! Good to talk to you in person at last.”

The woman ahead of him, dark-skinned with streaks of blonde in brown hair and a long shawl in the sky blue of Nexus Racing across her shoulders, gives a laugh. “Rather than through a screen, right? It’s an honour, honestly.”

“Only insofar as people make it one.” The two fall into step, treading across the gravelled path. “How are Nexus Racing treating you?”

Coalessa gives a laugh. “We talked about the rumours? All true. These people are… They’re something, alright.”

“You would hope so, wouldn’t you?” Tomas smiles as they pass into sliding doors. “It would be a shame to find nothing that the rest of us weren’t doing. There would be nothing to learn, otherwise.” He gazes up at the interior walls of the atrium, at the glass above whose polarisation shifts throughout to cast all manner of flowing, whirling patterns of light and shadow upon them.

Coalessa nods. “Right, then… I’m meant to take you to the cafeteria now – apparently that’s where Thompson likes to greet the new recruits.”

Tomas gives her an inquisitive look; she laughs again. “Looks over the workshop,” she explains, trotting up the steps to the upper floor. “Think she might have an affection for it – former engineer and all.”

Tomas considers it. “I do suppose it makes sense – a communal environment would be a pleasant place to acclimatise to a group.” He frowns. “Though the pressure that might come of it may not be good for everyone.”

“Considering, well, you… Still, that’s why we’re here!” Coalessa grins, holding her hands behind her head. The grin passes into a satisfied smile as they walk on. Then it flattens, her eyebrows raising. “Hey… I don’t know if you’d mind, but –”

Clares chuckles. “I’m honestly a little surprised it took you this long to ask.”

“Got caught up in the moment, maybe? Sounds like me!” Coalessa laughs easily. “But seriously, only if you’re alright with it.”

“No, no, it makes sense. A moment.” Reaching down to his hip, he takes one of the flasks of Imagination from his hip and brings it to his lips, the texture of polished glass running down his throat. Then he breathes, centring himself.

And begins the Loop.

Tomas’ mind expands, the air around him burning with Imagination’s light in a web of patterns as it is melded to his thought. With the enhanced clarity that is oh-so-familiar and oh-so-welcome, he throttles the process, stabilising it to a place where it cannot spiral out of control. Then, reaching out, he extends it to Coalessa.

She lets out a soft gasp. “Oh. Imagination, I understand.”

“That is the intent.”

“You said that this is what Thinking Caps did back in the origin universe? No wonder that they could achieve what they did.” Coalessa laughs, eyes sparkling, hand reaching up to cover her mouth. “This is the beauty of the stars. I understand. I understand.”

Tomas smiles happily. “That gladdens me. I’ll end it, now, then – a warning and reminder that it can feel unpleasant.” Then he looses the process, letting out a little puff of air with the sudden dulling of his thought, even if it is expected. He looks to Coalessa; she is breathing hard, hand raised to her head. “Are you alright?”

“Mostly, mostly… You were sure right about that last bit, felt like I was dying for a moment, but… Imagination.” She beams, shaking her head. “Tomas, I can’t wait to learn that. That’s awesome. They don’t call you ‘The Seer’ for nothing, do they?” she adds, hand going to her hip, even as her hand pushes open a door.

Brighter light steals away Tomas’ vision for a moment, leaving the sounds of bustling and clanking to fill his sense. When it clears, he sees an array of scattered tables in chairs in dark and light blues in a polished room of white, each filled with chattering people (some of whom notice him; the chattering becomes noticeably more animated after that), and a kiosk along the sides where people line up to receive their food from catering staff and offer thanks. In the centre of it all sits a short woman, alone but with a presence about her, her gaze on the door – and now on the two of them. With a grin, she stands and approaches.

“Honestly can still barely believe it!” says Gertrude Thompson, stretching out her hand to shake his. “Thanks, Coalessa; Tomas Clares, welcome to the team.”

[Filindostan]

Yogyakulta International Circuit
Yogyakulta, Filindostan
WGP2 Test Session at Filindostan

With the Equipo Telebuenas-BA (ETBA)'s HF1 chassis splashed by new paint in time for their home session, Rod and his teammate, Edward Rousseau, brought the cars into the track several minutes after the clock has started to tick in the first test session. After an uneventful two hours, Gozum, the lead driver of the team, had logged a lot of laps for the ETBA team, and was third fastest in the session, while Rousseau made it two ETBAs in the top 10 as his fastest lap was enough for an 8th place finish after the first test.

The session next day was more eventful than the first day, with light showers made the track challenging to drive and introduce the first session where intermediate tyres were used. This would also be the first time that the team will used Deyoze intermediates as ETBA and Badai Angin decided not to continue with Solymok for both WGPC next season and this season's WGP2, and in the latter, would choose to default to the Hodoran tyre supplier for this season.

Gozum put the FH1 out on the circuit and run eight laps with a fastest time of 1:54.470, however, when he was running the car into the Unlucky Turn, he spun the car, hydroplaned into the gravel trap outside the short straight between that turn and Turn 14, and hit the wall rear first, destroying the rear end of the car and causing the session to be stopped momentarily. The crash ended the session for the Filindostani, who was forced to watch from the pit wall for the remainder of the session while seeing Rousseau set the second slowest time of the session.

Days after the session, it was announced the Scuderia Orange Cow from Baker Park was added late to the WGP2 grid, which gave Varadi and Ricafort an opportunity to convince another team of signing academy driver Luc Deschamps into the team. Varadi was seen in the Filindostan paddock talking to several personalities off the track, asking teams with an open drive whether they can accept Deschamps into their team, such that they can fairly evaluate him against other academy and ETBA drivers in Indra Vartak and Edward Rousseau.

381 words

[Valentine Z]

Post 7 – 120% at a time.

"Yogyakulta International Circuit," she thought to herself, looking at the map. It seems a little intimidating compared to the course that she has just went through on the previous week. Tabuso Curb, The Hairpin, and the very appropriately named Unlucky Turn. "Well, it won't be too bad, I hope. Best I work out the kinks and other relevant matters with my crew." It's only a few weeks in and as mentioned way before, the air of familiarity is definitely something to behold - the team that has been attached to her are her old friends, save from one or two unfamiliar faces. Still, after a day or two, and after a race, they were quickly acquainted with the requirements and performance of Adriana - she is not the one to take the championship all of a sudden, but she suddenly knows how to handle her cars effectively and respectfully.

That is, until the Test Session 1 hits. As expected, Adriana found herself suffering and struggling at those aforementioned three turns, on top of the 90 degree turn. The Kotyog Complex was not as bad, and the rest of the course was a walk in the park. Then she saw her results at the end of the session - 18th out of the 20. How far down she went, she thought to herself. Worse, this was on the best possible weather conditions; if there is going to be light showers or a degree of heavy rain, it would definitely turn a take for the worse. Or at least, so she thought. There were light showers on the 2nd test session, with Adriana expecting the worst. Then it hit her a bit on what she has learned in WGPC 18, as well as in Nexus Academy. "Well, let's just say I didn't really learn directly, but I kinda knew what exactly happened and I guess I am ready to prepare for it," Adriana told the crew as all of them attentively listened to her whilst fixing up her car for the job, "So I know that the frictional coefficients were rather inconsistent when it comes to light showers. Some parts of the road gets easier, some gets more difficult, and some get slippery like a bar of soap. So, it became a bit obvious to me that I should have had a wider window of deviation when it comes to this frictional coefficient."

"In short, I will make sure to adjust my behavior regarding friction on the rain! Leave this to me, hehe." And so she did, trying her best to account for the differences in friction on the wet roads. And it was done, with a 10th out of the 20. Not too shabby, and quite a tremendous improvement, Adriana believed so herself. The only thing that seemed to be bugging her - not necessarily in a bad way, is how there is this one particular driver that seemed to be doing pretty well amongst the rest. Sakinomi Rikikida, from Kyoki. The one who placed 5th on the 2nd test session of the previous week. The name of the place was certainly not strange to her, for she and a few of her Valentian friends have interacted with their leaders a few times before. What was making them a cut above the rest, she wanted to know. Adriana absolutely has no suspicions, just curiosity on how long they have been in on this WGP business. "Maybe it's like the Valentian people back in NSSCRA - after being in several seasons, you pick up a few tricks."

Then came another name: Lukas Fichter. First last week, first today. Some people seemed to have all the luck and skill in the world. Maybe it was because of their aggressive driving techniques, but he was definitely one of those people who have managed to keep ahead of himself. And this is in consideration of possibly many other long-time veterans joining teams and start tearing the rookies apart. Edward Rousseau was another name that Adriana was somewhat familiar with, she thought. From Ethane, but signed up for Equipo Telebuenas-BA this time as his team. "Well, not a big deal, though I should say hi to him one day!" She closed the garage behind her and listened to the debrief - nothing unusual, nothing bad, other than to prepare for the third week that would be at the Cocoabo Park Circuit. "Oh nice, Valentians' number one tourist spot. I wonder if I should invite the rest of the Valentians again, since they said they are going to finish their NSSCRA season soon! And with the track being heavily technical with some turns and twists (though not as much as Yogyakulta International Circuit, at least from the map), this should give me the edge over the others. At least, I hope."

~ 815 words.

[Montana Verde]

Posted on In Brief section of the GS SuperSports+ website.

Márquez dismisses pre-season results as “inconsequential”

Verdean WGP2 driver Alex Márquez put in an improved set of performances after a dismal first practice session of the season, but said the results “really didn’t matter” at this stage. Both Grand Prix Sport Chanceaux cars struggled dreadfully at the Raichovskiy Circuit in Twicetagria, but Márquez recorded a better set of times at the second practice of the pre-season, held at the Yogyakulta International Circuit in Filindostan. She finished with the 4th fastest lap time in the first session and 8th in the second, in the latter case braving the light rains that had begun to blow in.

“The weather didn’t bother me too much,” said Márquez. “I’m used to some fairly bad conditions on the Græntfaller circuit. It was actually a good test of the car and how it dealt with the water on the track.” Márquez said she’d be discussing her impressions of the car’s handling with the team back in Sommet de Lespoir before the tour decamps to Vilita and Turori for the final pre-season test ahead of the start of the season. “We got some good telemetry, I think it’s obvious there’s still adjustments to be made based on the times we’ve been getting, but I have every confidence in the team.”

Back home in Montaña Verde, the prospect of Márquez competing has excitement brewing. Although the Verdean motorsports scene itself is fairly limited, there are hopes her signing can lead to a breakthrough for Verdean drivers. “All the time I have boys and girls coming in wanting to wear 92 [Márquez’s number],” says Esteban Valerio Pousa, proprietor of Escarabajo Karting, the facility where a young Márquez got her start. “We’ve had to retire the 92 kart because it was getting so much use it was getting a bit dinged up!”

But not everyone is a fan. Students at the Universidad de Juan Andrés Santángel have voted to ban airing of the WGP season in the student sports bar, citing the environmental impact of automobiles. “It’s crazy to be cheering on car racers as some sort of heroes – or heroines – as the planet is burning,” said Ana Sofia Gaez, self-appointed spokeswoman for the Students for Direct Action, Climate Jusice, and Animal Liberation protest group. “Instead of fighting the Græntfaller corporations that are brutally deforesting the rainforests of Montaña Verde, Alex has thrown in her lot with the colonizers. We’re not going to be celebrating her ‘accomplishments’ any time soon.”

[Hodori Motorsports]

Yogyakulta, Filindostan
Yogyakulta International Circuit

“Programme complete, box this lap.” Sako Reitoude called over the radio, her headset blocking out the engine noise and rainfall. “Excellent work, Valkyria. We have all the data we need.”

Awaiting Valkyria’s return in the final few minutes of the session, Reitoude toook one last look at the timing screen. His time, set during an earlier data collection run, was good enough for third at just under two tenths off purple. This last run was another race-pace simulation, with a focus on consistent lap times and the occasional handling of traffic.

---

as Reiutoude and Nadakei reviewd the telemetry with Valkyria, the various students of the Reitoude Motor Sport Engineering Academy tended to the car, dressed in the bare carbon and pink endplates of PrismRiver’s testing livery.

---

---

---

It was only pre-season testing, and her runs weren’t about outright pace, so fifteenth didn’t bother Chiruno Hakusoe too much. Wandering the streets of Yogyakulta, a casually-dressed Junsa in tow, Chiruno sought out the best place to buy another plushie to add to her pile back home.

---

“Ooh, I’ve heard of these.” Chiruno eyed a plushie of a rabbit girl with light-purple hair.
Junsa looked at the assortment of plushies. “They’re probably counterf-”
“I want one of everything. And two of the bunny.” Chiruno was already handing the money over to the cashier.

---

---

---

Soeshu, Hodori
The Kuyara home

“It’s really a shame both TMW seats are full.” Suzuchiru walked out onto the patio carrying a tray with drinks. “Imagine how funny it would be if you were Heinz-Otto’s teammate. They’d have a pair of Junkers driving for them.”
Sakiteno “Junker” Kuyara glared at Suzuchiru.
“Are you two going to take this seriously?” An’ue Toudeyaku asked, looking up from her tablet.
Suzuchiru shrugged.
“If I have to.” Kuyara took her drink from the tray.
“Last pre-season test is coming up, and it’s not looking likely we’ll be able to get you a seat before then.” An’ue swiped and tapped at her tablet. “Most of the teams have both seats filled. Based on what I’ve been able to find, Fireline and PrismRiver still have a seat available, but both have someone in mind for them.”
“What about NACR?” Kuyara asked.
An’ue just looked at Kuyara.
“I’ve read up on them, they seem to be run by a bunch of racist pricks, so I was almost hoping to see what would get me fired by them first; my mixed heritage or me twisting one of those assholes into a pretzel.” Kuyara’s feline ears twitched, her tail – out of their line of sight – flicked back and forth.
“As much fun as watching would be, I’m pretty sure you’d get arrested for breaking someone in half like that.” Suzuchiru set the tray down and cracked open a can of beer.
“WGPO issued a statement. NACR’s only allowed to run a single car.” An’ue returned her attention to the tablet.
“So who else is available?”
“So far, I haven’t found confirmed signings for either seat with Bitten Heroes, Montagne, or Scuderia Orange Cow.” An’ue looked up at Kuyara. “Did I say something strange?”
Kuyara’s face twitched.
“We don’t talk about the cow incident.” Suzuchiru lied, keeping a straight face. “Actually, we constantly give her shit about the cow incident.”
“Ookay.” An’ue looked back at her tablet. “If you so wish, I’ll send out emails to teams with available seats. Hopefully the email server doesn’t die on us again.”
“Go ahead.” Kuyara contemplated her options. “Even the cow team.”

[Liventia]

CUTOFF

for Pre-Season Test at Cocoabo Park Circuit

This is an important reminder that teams should aim to have both drivers signed by Thursday, 1 April. Teams will be allowed to start the season on 2 April if they have at least one driver signed, but teams with no drivers by 23:59 UTC, 1 April, will not be allowed to start the season until they sign two drivers.

[Liventia]

Pre-season Test 3

Conditions:      	Rainy
Predicted Optimal Time:	00:02:09.056
Session Length:	180 minutes
Nation:         	V&T
Circuit:        	Cocoabo Park Circuit

Test Session 1

POS # ▍DRIVER                                               	FASTEST LAP	GAP TO LEADER
 1 40 ▍Adriana Kowalski Ela Lillian                         	00:02:10.774	00:00:00.000
 2 17 ▍Janne Laukkanen                                      	00:02:11.082	00:00:00.308
 3 41 ▍Edward Rousseau                                      	00:02:11.501	00:00:00.727
 4 31 ▍Joy Wingelaar                                        	00:02:11.741	00:00:00.967
 5 12 ▍Adeline Darlington-Whit                              	00:02:11.791	00:00:01.017
 6 44 ▍Rod Gozum                                            	00:02:11.809	00:00:01.035
 7 15 ▍Heinz-Otto Junker                                    	00:02:11.980	00:00:01.206
 8 17 ▍David Clarke                                         	00:02:12.008	00:00:01.234
 9 72 ▍Charyseine Valkyria                                  	00:02:12.221	00:00:01.447
10 79 ▍Lukas Fichter                                        	00:02:12.288	00:00:01.514
11 11 ▍Anola Melani                                         	00:02:12.353	00:00:01.579
12 92 ▍Alex Márquez                                         	00:02:12.525	00:00:01.751
13 37 ▍Laura Haukanna                                       	00:02:12.949	00:00:02.175
14 88 ▍Ted Pressley                                         	00:02:13.323	00:00:02.549
15 21 ▍Chiruno Hakusoe                                      	00:02:13.593	00:00:02.819
16 91 ▍Taras Matviyenko                                     	00:02:14.171	00:00:03.397
17 35 ▍Indra Vartak                                         	00:02:14.534	00:00:03.760
18 66 ▍Harry Zoomtwat                                       	00:02:15.063	00:00:04.289
19  4 ▍Sakinomi Rikikida                                    	00:02:16.991	00:00:06.217
20  9 ▍Batu Tüvshinbayar                                    	00:02:20.765	00:00:09.990

Test Session 2

Conditions:      	Dry
Predicted Optimal Time:	00:01:52.222
Session Length:	180 minutes
Nation:         	V&T
Circuit:        	Cocoabo Park Circuit

POS # ▍DRIVER                                               	FASTEST LAP	GAP TO LEADER
 1  4 ▍Sakinomi Rikikida                                    	00:01:53.722	00:00:00.000
 2 37 ▍Laura Haukanna                                       	00:01:53.864	00:00:00.142
 3 88 ▍Ted Pressley                                         	00:01:54.030	00:00:00.308
 4 31 ▍Joy Wingelaar                                        	00:01:54.194	00:00:00.472
 5 66 ▍Harry Zoomtwat                                       	00:01:54.326	00:00:00.604
 6 35 ▍Indra Vartak                                         	00:01:54.627	00:00:00.905
 7 40 ▍Adriana Kowalski Ela Lillian                         	00:01:54.643	00:00:00.921
 8 15 ▍Heinz-Otto Junker                                    	00:01:54.810	00:00:01.088
 9 21 ▍Chiruno Hakusoe                                      	00:01:54.890	00:00:01.168
10 11 ▍Anola Melani                                         	00:01:55.103	00:00:01.381
11 41 ▍Edward Rousseau                                      	00:01:56.020	00:00:02.298
12  9 ▍Batu Tüvshinbayar                                    	00:01:56.024	00:00:02.302
13 79 ▍Lukas Fichter                                        	00:01:56.232	00:00:02.510
14 17 ▍Janne Laukkanen                                      	00:01:56.525	00:00:02.803
15 17 ▍David Clarke                                         	00:01:57.485	00:00:03.764
16 44 ▍Rod Gozum                                            	00:01:57.699	00:00:03.977
17 72 ▍Charyseine Valkyria                                  	00:01:57.794	00:00:04.072
18 12 ▍Adeline Darlington-Whit                              	00:01:58.349	00:00:04.628
19 91 ▍Taras Matviyenko                                     	00:01:58.852	00:00:05.130
20 92 ▍Alex Márquez                                         	00:02:00.671	00:00:06.949

[Hispinas]

Armendaritze Mansion
Vallezul, Hispinas

Astigar and Amalur were back in the Armendartize Mansion after an eventful string of tests, with the latter treating Astigar's bruises he suffered when he attempted to participate in ETBA's driver trials. He planned to gatecrash the event even if he was not given an invitation to participate, after his relatively good performance in the first two tests that he attended did not result to a contract offer. The main reason was his attitude and refusal to speak in English even while communicating with race engineers, giving an impression to teams that he would be difficult to work with, and even if he has significant backing from Txerrikotxoa, sometimes, racecraft and attitude on the track would weigh more on other teams than money.

When he went to the entrance of the Jakulta International Raceway, security guards approached the Hispino driver, immediately questioning his appearance in the facility. "I am here to participate in the tests. For Equipo Telebuenas." He said in a confident Basko language. When one of the team personnel of ETBA, who happened to be based from Haranbehera, came to the commotion, she looked at the list of allowed participants, and Astigar was not on the list, she told the guards to take away the Hispino driver and take any means to get him out of the facility. "Wait, what are you doing?" Astigar clamored while being dragged out and being punched around his body.

With two more test sessions, one of which was a simulation did not result in contract offers, and when the three official testing sessions were over, he pressed into desperation mode and sent an email to all teams that still had an opening to consider him for a seat and he heavily emphasized the fact that he is backed by the bank from Vallezul. Minutes after the sending, Amalur told him that she needed to sort out matters at office and she will be back after a few days.

Days later, Amalur has not been back yet, and Astigar received a call from the a "representative of Txerrikotxoa".

"Hello?"

"This is Igon Amestoy, representing Txerrikotxoa. I just want to let you know that the company has unilaterally terminated the sponsorship agreement with you, and the company has signed to sponsor Equipo Telebuenas. You will not be compensated in any way possible. And we will not apologize in any way too. An oh, let me open our camera for you."

"What?"

When Astigar put his phone to be able to see the view from the other camera, he saw Amalur, with Igon, both half-naked, and kissing each other in the bed.

"Amalur, what is this?"

"Oh Tigar, I'm breaking up... wait, we don't even have a label. I'm introducing my fiancee to you, Igon."

The two laughed at Astigar, looking pathetic as he see himself.

"And oh, Astigar, seems all the doors will close to your racing career. My boss has ensured that other teams will not even consider your name for any of the open seats. Even in other racing categories. So just retire already." Igon added as he started the intercourse with Amalur, with sounds of them moaning clearly heard in Astigar's phone.

With Astigar consumed with rage, he threw his phone, the same phone which he used in calling Varadi, and was blown into pieces.

"Damn you Varadi, I'll kill you over and over if I see you."

This did not stop him from following up with the remaining teams with open slots. Maybe he could get one drive, that one drive he needed to redeem himself.

600 words

[Krainin]

Bringing the latest FRS news updates

Elise Shaw Announces Her Entry Into WGP2
By: Tony Jackson

Elise Shaw in 2019.

Elise Shaw, born 26 January 1995, is a 26-year-old female open-wheel racer out of Lead Mine, Ashos. After running part-time since 2020, she's decided to join the WGP2 to get a little bit more experience. I was able to sit down and talk with Shaw about the upcoming WPG2 season.

Tony Jackson: Greetings Elise. I'm glad your sitting down with us today.

Elise Shaw: As am I.

TJ: So, you decided to expand away from The Isles and go international.

ES: Yea. Any experience is good.

TJ: Speaking of experience, early in your career you were know for tearing up cars.

ES: Yea, I've grown since then. In my final full F4 season, I only had 1 DNF and that was due to something mechanical.

TJ: So what do you think about the WGP2 cars?

ES: Those will definitely be a handful. The closest thing would be an FRS F2 car, I believe. So, yea, I might have some issues.

TJ: That's to be expected. Anyway, going to WGP2, are there any teams your looking at?

ES: Well considering the season has almost started, there's not going to be any "good" teams. Hopefully there's some open seats available. If not, I could be a replacement driver is someone leaves in the middle of the season.

TJ: That's a little unlikely, but it's good to keep your hopes up. So, what are your goals if you're able to join.

ES: My goals are just to be consistent and not tear up equipment.

TJ: Well, I hope you're able to join a team and to have a good season.

ES: Thanks.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

The search for a driver, or a pair of them, was proving to be difficult as the calendar quickly moved towards the opening weekend of the season. The team had missed out on the official open test in Turori, the final one before the first race at Alikki-Corra in Vilita, and only had logged miles around a makeshift layout outside of the PRL complex and two trips to Drummond Vale Course, which would be hosting a round of the WGP2 series on the second weekend of the season. Without regular drivers getting acclimated to the car, the amount of testing was limited; a couple of home grown racers--Nick Unger and Jordan Crowe—had been drafted in to run laps at both sites, but their familiarity with this level of racing.

Crowe might be a capable test driver once they had regular pilots, and he was penciled in as a stopgap candidate if the season began with one or both seats open, but their chances of being competitive with him were miniscule, at best.
The car itself wasn't going to win any awards for design, but it was functional and durable; even in 'race trim', with a driver and fuel on board, it was still about 20kg under the minimum weight, which would allow for additional ballast to be utilized to improve upon the natural center of gravity and overall balance.

On the sponsorship side of things, the team had gotten a larger commitment from CommOil, the country's largest petroleum producer and retailer, in exchange for title sponsorship, and BCEL Beverage had offered a second brand from its portfolio, Port Royale White Rum, to go along with the previously agreed to Chappy Cola deal. CCB Bank Corporation and LiteSpeed Mobile also joined the team, with the cellular outfit also raising their stake in exchange for a more prominent place on the car—in this case on the engine cover.

At the launch of the car in Belle Haven, Mike Lambert talked about the challenges of trying to pull together an organization on short notice, and then ensure that the safety and reliability of the cars themselves wouldn't be an issue.

Questioned about the origins of the team name, Lambert had a perfectly reasonable, if not humorous, explanation. “Vic (Marzetti) suggested Scuderia, which I liked, and Neal Gillman, one of our partners in the investor group, said he he wanted orange in the team name in exchange for his participation, and I like cows (laughter). I collect cow figures and images. There's a dairy farm no too far from the factory, on the other side of the 450. Maybe we should've tried to get a milk sponsor, too!”


(448 words)

[Lisander]

"So, Tüvshinbayar, Meloni and Pressley accepted contracts, we only have Kate Edwards between the planned four, and Elise Shaw as a possible option." Lucas Schwarcz, MW Racing Hospitality Coordinator, was reading the list of possible drivers to Marc Wiel, the Team Principal. "Now that the tests were over, there were the time to finish the drivers assignment. Also, no luck on reserves, Sissie accepted the contract from PrismRiver and Darius Castellammare is going with her."

"We decided not to join the tests exactly for this reason. We wanted every minute available to select the roster and work in the car. I was still counting on Sissie, but we can't wait anymore. It's time to confirm Athan Lille as the first driver, and advance with the offer to... Ok... We're offering the second seat to Elise Shaw."

That boss of mine is a cheapskate... - Lucas thought, but only said "Okay, I'm writing."

"Regarding Sissie, it isn't bad after all. Since she's already contracted for the next WGPC, at least we manage to learn something... Come on, Schwarcz, send the e-mail."

Ms. Shaw,

We decided to offer you the second seat for the following WGP2 season in Bitten Heroes Academy enginereed by MW Racing, we expect you can give our best in our car this season.

I'm also attaching a small guide of the team and I'm ready to provide assistance for all matters related to hospitality, including but not limited to lodging, sponsorships and racing apparel.

We're waiting for your response as soon as possible, to make sure we could accommodate you and your crew, manage deals with the sponsors you could eventually bring into our livery, and guarantee that no details regarding your contract and possible additional sponsorships are missed.

Best regards,

Lucas Schwarcz
Hospitality Coordinator, MW Racing

---

"So, Sissie, you should accept it now, and start packing. PrismRiver have a strong structure there, you can learn a lot. It's also good for Motorsport Lisander, as a shareholder you can even profit in the future. We can bring a lot of useful stuff from the east. We had a team partnering with Arada before, and it was worthy." - Darius Castellammare and Sissie Devereux were discussing her offer in "Leinas Racing Headquarters", which despite its grandiose name was just a 30 square metre office on the first floor of a commercial building in Downtown Brax.

"Oh, I'm a big shareholder right now... I have exactly two shares of the organization, worthy L$70.000. What an Investment! Sissie Devereux can now retire and live on profits as an investment tycoon..." - she was being ironic. - "Well, okay Darius. I'm accepting the Arada offer, but don't forget to make my contracts appear at least a little."

"That's why you're sending an e-mail. Go ahead and write it."

"Okay... okay..."

From: Anneliese Devereux <sissie@leinasracing.ls>
To: PrismRiver Racing AYDP <prismriver-aydp@aradamotorsport.co.hd>
Subject: Re:WGP2 Seat Offer

---

Mr Nadakei,

I decided to accept your offer to drive for PrismRiver Racing, and I expect to do my best with your team. I do believe I'm a valuable asset for the team, as I currently carry sponsorships from Motorsport Lisander and LEINAS timepieces.

Motorsport Lisander is the private entity that is taking over the amateur Lisander Autosports Board, in an effort to evolve Lisanderian Motorsport overall. LEINAS is a luxury brand well-known in Lisander, and interested in expanding overseas. I represent their watches division. I also have a contract with local car manufacturer Harlean Motors, but they agreed to leave it on standby, depending on what Arada Motorsport's position on this is. Same applies for my Bitten Heroes Academy contract, which I'm not sure can be displayed, since Bitten Heroes Academy is supporting MW Racing for the season. Following, I attach a possible depiction of my sponsorships, if they're accepted in the livery. But it's up to the team.


Attachment:<AnnelieseSponsors.png - 53.2 Kb>

That said, I don't have any designated mechanical engineer from Harlean on my personal team, and I'm looking to work with your team. The only people who I bring for the team initially are my personal assistant Anne Siebler and my manager, the former WGP2 and WGPC driver, Darius Castellammare. Coincidentally, all of us three are mechanical engineers.

I'm currently packing up for the travel, but I'll answer any further doubt as soon as possible. I'm open to receive further information by any means.

Best regards,

Anneliese Devereux.

"Right. Nicely done. Now back to the packing."

"What packing? Have you packed something?"

"My rig is already on that box. Helmet, steering wheel, gloves, shoes... I haven't touched anything since the last test." - she pointed a plastic box sprayed with flow-vis.

"Sissie, you don't know if they will provide everything new for you? What if your steering wheel doesn't match their equipment? What if they planned the equipment in full rose and carbon?"

"Yeah, makes sense." - she shrugged - "I'll call Ludi, I'm sure she could get me a nice helmet with the PrismRiver colours. let me see..." - Scrolling, Sissie left the office, sending a voice message to Ludwika Wiel number on her smartphone. Darius could hear her voice moving away... - "Hey, Ludi, I got the PrismRiver deal so I'll need a new helm..."

PREV | 873 | NEXT

[TJUN-ia]

WGP2 Pre-Season Test 3
Cocoabo Park Circuit
Cocoabo Forest, Vilita and Turori
End of Session 2

And there he was, in one of the most famous tracks in the sport, wondering if things were going to go his way. Batu Tüvshinbayar had felt pretty good about his driving abilities during the 2nd Pre-Season Test in Yogyakulta, ending up 9th in that final wet session, but Test 3 would certainly change that perspective entirely as the circus headed to Cocoabo Park for the final test before the real battles begin. The Cocoabo Park Circuit, home to many a Cocoabo and designed in the shape of one, is probably one of the most recognizable racetracks in all motorsports, with both WGPC and NSSCRA events coming here over the years. It didn't matter which class of motorsports you preferred as many across both fanbases in TJUN-ia have heard of this hallowed track, the place where both JR and Lane Carter have raced at under different environments, and now, Batu joined the ever-expanding list of TJUN-ians to ever driven on this wacky circuit.

The rain would come for Session 1 and Batu, a guy who had never driven here before, now had to tame it in the rain: a feat not many have attempted in recent times. Batu looked like a lost duckling out there, struggling to find any sense of confidence or grip in these trick conditions, and would end up dead last overall at nearly 10 seconds off the pace of one Adriana Kowalski Ela Lillian, a driver Batu raced against in Crossbay not that long ago. Teammate Lukas Fichter did better, 1.5 seconds off in 10th, but Batu still knew that he had it all to do in the afternoon.

Things would dry up in time for Session 2, thank goodness for that, and Batu began to feel more comfortable about the circuit by the lap in his red Nykipiflugpuun Noortekoondis with his name in Cyrillic slapped onto the sides. He certainly felt more confident about how he was doing, but we would still end up 2.3 seconds off the pace in 12th. Sakinomi Rikikida was said pacesetter and while Batu was faster than Fitcher in this session (by 2 tenths in the end), he still felt like he had taken a step back on where he was in Filindostan.

He felt bad, of course he did, but he knew that the time for contemplation would soon be over. Not far from here is the Alikki-Corra Street Circuit, where the 4th season of WGP2 will start - for real. Batu didn't want to feel like what Lane Carter felt after his WGP2 season with UrGa and so, he made a promise to ensure that he didn't let NN down in any way, shape or form. He would be ready for anything that came at him, no matter how alone he sometimes felt in the lively paddock he was now a part of...

[Ethane]

"Jama’obo Pegasii is probably the better fit for us at the moment..."
"would provide some very decent competition to Adriana..."
"Put us in the fight..."
"Looking up from here..."
"Talented, skilled, and driven; all of which fits with our ethos.
"The financial and technical support is also greatly desired."
"The chance of developing a long-lasting future partnership across racing formats makes this signing even more positive for the team in this season, and in the future."
"There is no better option. I'd recommend we offer them the drive now."

Quotes from an Internal Document within Fireline Motorsports, titled "Internal Report on Available Drivers Suitable for Fireline."

Fireline Motorsports offers their remaining seat to Jama’obo Pegasii, alongside the financial and technical support offered by Edvin on behalf of Tropicorp Racing Ælund.

[Vilita and Turori]

Saint Croata, MontagneF1 HQ
6:00 AM


Robert Pontame bursts in the office of pit chief Jack Rolenhoff brandishing his email and saying "Huzzah!". "Woah holy merde, what's going on?" asks Rolenhoff. Pontame replies "We have an email asking us if we want to secure some drivers". "Say sure, as long as the stats aren't bad." immediately replies the Chief.

To: epekka@aelund.co.ab
From: robertpon@montagnef1.sig

---

We are happy to offer one or if no other applicants two of our seats to your drivers. Please get back in touch

Sincerely,
Robert Pontame
Director of MontagneF1

Unconfirmed Seats sew WGP2 uncertainty as Pegasii, Vialiv await Deals

Cocoabo Park Circuit, Cocoabo Park, Cocoabo Forest:: With the start of the World Grand Prix 2 season just around the corner, the absence of any Vilita & Turorian drivers at the final pre-season test sessions at the Cocoabo Forest was alarming to many motorsports insiders. Just 20 cars were on track at the Cocoabo Park Circuit which means up to 10 team/driver combinations will be heading into the first event of the season at the Alikki-Corra Street Course with no on track time before the first official sessions of the season.

While it has been all quiet on the signings front after an initial flurry, there are indications that some moves are being made behind the scenes. Baker Park's Orange Cow Racing team which did not show to any of the Pre-Season tests has reportedly booked hotel rooms in Alikki-Corra indicating at least a tentative intent for the team to participate in the opening race of the season. There are also some muted rumors regarding the fate of two hopeful Vilita & Turori based drivers, Jama'obo Pegasii and Skiia Vialiv.

Both drivers are backed by the Vilisorma Beverage Company with Pegasii representing the Vilaye Roast brand and Vialiv the Viliaye Energy Drink backed driver though she commands less financial support than the veteran Pegasii who, along with River 'Shark' Suzgar II of NSSCRA and R.L. Cruisin have been the three biggest named spokesdrivers for the Vilaye brand. The latest rumor is that the Vilisorma Beverage Company's brand new Sports Marketing Arm has been in negotiations with representatives from the MontagneF1 team from Sierra Grand. These negotiations were brokered by the well known Abovian Edvin Pekkanen who has also pleged support from Ælund Racing if a deal could be completed.

If agreed, it could see the MontagneF1 team rebranded and becoming a joint effort between Sierra Grand and the Vilita & Turori Based Beverage Company with Support from Ælund Racing. Depending on the amount of financial commitment the Sierra Grand based entity can put forth, the proposed driver lineup would be one of the two scenarios:

If the effort is fully funded by the Vilisorma Beverage Company with support from Aelund Racing, the team would be re-branded to Vilaye EnergySport Ælund GP with the Primary driver being Jama'obo Pegasii and the secondary driver being Skiia Vialiv

If the Sierra Grand based entity put forth their share of the finances to support the teams raceday expenses then the team could be re-branded to Vilaye EnergySport Montagne GP with support from Aelund Racing. This would also afford the team the option of putting their own driver, Jerome Mariot in the car - or any other Montagne supported driver such as perhaps Krainin's Elise Shaw. Should Montagne continue to support the team and include Mariot, Shaw or another foreigner as one of the two drivers, then Vilaye EnergySport would retain the second driver seat for either Jama'obo Pegasii or Skiia Vialiv at the new entity. While WGP2 Veteran Jama'obo Pegasii has been offered a drive at Fireline Motorsports, the veteran who is the most experienced World Grand Prix 2 driver on the market and a former World Grand Prix 2 Race winner is unlikely to accept a Junior role at the Fireline Team under the teams existing and comparatively inexperienced driver Adriana Kowalski. It is possible that if both Pegasii and Vialiv do not end up at a re-branded VilayeEnergy Sport team based out of Sierra Grand, that negotiations could continue between the Vilisorma Beverage Company and Fireline Motorsports to get one of their two sponsored drivers into the Fireline seat before the cars hit the track in Alikki-Corra. It is rumored that the Vilisorma Beverage Company has put a "Close of Business" suspense on any possible deal with Montagne which would leave them time to iron out details with Fireline Motorsports prior to the start of the Alikki-Corra race weekend.

V&T Racer will have more on this developing story as it evolves.

[Sierra Grand]

To: Useful Members of Vilaye EnergySport, Jama'obo Pegasii, Skiia Vialiv.
From: robertpon@montagnef1.sig

---

We would be more than happy to accept the sponsorship and both drivers as the team needs money for season. We can finalise any details as you wish. The team however, would like to keep some autonomous control, and Sierrese partners in sponsoring should stay

Sincerely,
Robert Pontame

[Togonistan]

Kaylan Racing Team HQ
Tushlark, Togonistan

''...and along with the usual teamwear, we also have these lovely caps. They have mesh on the backside, meaning the air can get through and your hair don't get all sweaty under it. Besides, they have our drivers car numbers on them, I mean, how cool is that?'' Alissa Elisapeta explained, presenting one item after another to Xander. The two were in a conference room, with a big pile of clothing and other tat on the table. Alissa was acting as sort of a marketing specialist for Kaylan. Although working for the car manufacturer on daily basis, she also fulfilled her duties in Kaylan's racing division from time to time, helping the teams with promo and marketing gigs. Xander was sitting and resting his head on his fists as Alissa went through the new team merchandise.

''Fabulous,'' Xander said, not sharing much of Alissa's enthusiasm.

''Oh come on, fans love stuff like this,'' Alissa said as she rolled out a T-shirt with Ted Pressley's quote on it, ''and I'm sure this particular one will sell like hot cakes amongst our new friends from Tumbra.''

''Yes, of course, they all look very nice. So, where are they going to be sold? Will there be these little merchandise booths in race sites or...''

Alissa laughed, ''Xander, we live in the 21st century. Internet exists, you know.''

Xander crossed his arms in response to Alissa's sassy little comment. He wasn't that much of a boomer, he had used a computer before and even knew how to send an e-mail! ''Fans can buy all the items from our online store. Here, take a look at it yourself!'' Alissa said as she turned a laptop on the table to face towards Xander:

---

Kaylan Racing Team 2021 Team T-Shirt
Price: 60.00 TGA

Size: S M L XL

Kaylan Racing Team 2021 Women's V-Neck
Price: 60.00 TGA

Size: S M L XL

Kaylan Racing Team 2021 Team Longsleeve
Price: 85.00 TGA

Size: S M L XL

Kaylan Racing Team #11 Anola Melani Cap
Price: 20.00 TGA

Size: S M L XL

Kaylan Racing Team #88 Ted Pressley Cap
Price: 20.00 TGA

Size: S M L XL

#88 Ted Pressley Quote T-shirt
Price: 50.00 TGA

Size: S M L XL

Kaylan Racing Team Metal Canteen
Price: 35.00 TGA

Kaylan Racing Team Keyring
Price: 5.00 TGA

Kaylan Racing Team Scented Candle Apple & Orange
Price: 8.00 TGA

---

Xander's head exploded when he saw the last item in the list. ''Okay, clothing, I understand. Canteens and keyrings, I can understand. But why on earth would someone want scented candles with our logo on them?''

''I'm sure even racing fans won't say no to some pleasant aroma in their room. Like, put yourself in the shoes of a fan for a moment. You've got a week off from work. You've spent the last four days binge watching sports. There's this nasty smell of takeaway pizza boxes stacked up in the corner of you room. Then, you light up a candle. Next thing you know, there is this pleasant hint of apple & orange filling your apartment. It's marvelous, isn't it?''

Xander sighed and facepalmed. ''Kaylan's signature smell, heh? Might as well make them smell like burning tyres, would be more authentic...'' he muttered.

''Oh, that's a wonderful idea! Let me write it down...''

Xander took a deep breath, ''No, no. Apple and orange is great. Really, apple and orange is absolutely fantastic.'' It was really not easy to be a team principal sometimes...