Disclosure: Sonic and Company are all owned by SEGA and Sonic Team. Freedom Planet and their characters are owned by GalaxyTrail. The venues and teams from the Wip3out series are owned by the former Liverpool Studio. Rico is owned by me.

Sonic Riders: The New Circuit

Chapter 11: The Interview Process, Rico Style

Rico, Rico's Tent, 5:09PM

Rico was in a different state of mind when he was preparing for this interview night. He knew that three teams would be formed on this day, but one team was already here. Nine racers, three teams, forty-two different headaches all caused by forty-two different racers interacting with each other at the same time.

(Man, oh man. I wasn't expecting to have the other teams literally sponsor everyone here. I'm not surprised that the teams have started to scout as well. Well, let's go over quickly all the teams:

FEISAR won't try to approach any of the current six on the roster. I feel that it would be Spade's team that FEISAR would approach first. Then again, there's possibly one of the newly formed free-agent teams that I'm about to interview in a few minutes.

QIREX likely sponsored the Hoodlums… They're the only ones that would put up a deal and have a team in the midst waiting for a chance to capitalize on such prosperity.

AG Systems are currently the champs and I'm sure that either Team Sonic or Team Dark would be the best pick for them to sponsor…

PIRAHNA is currently looking for some new life to the team. Team Freedom or Lilac's team would be good for them as both are pretty young and they have great potential. Although, they have been known for bad business decisions in the past.

TRIAKIS is notorious for getting very decent teams with great knowledge of weaponry. Assuming that QIREX did get the Hoodlums, then Babylon would be in their sights, not trying to risk Ivo's participation with Team Dark.

GOTEKI-45 isn't a team about image. They have one thing in mind: winning, whatever the cost. Neera's team would fit the bill nicely. Although, a free-agent team would go well too.

The edgy EG.X… Hm.. Team Dark would fit their persona when it comes to their history and racing style. It would also benefit them seeing that they just won Metal Highway and is rolling high overall.

ASSEGAI is notable to pick up top-notch racers but the recent series proved that even subpar racers can become decent. I see Team Freedom or even the Chaotix Team signing with them….

MIRAGE… Not much is known about them except that manage to stay among the top 5 teams every series. They never have the same team so it would be safe to assume that a free-agent team will be picked up by them.

HARIMAU is all about nature and I'm sure that Spade's team will be picked up by them…. I don't see Lilac's team being picked up nor any other team for that matter. Just the whole nature bid is something I'm not too sure many teams will tolerate.

AURICOM has always been about justice and personally, Team Chaotix is just the team for them… Aside from that, I feel that many of the free agents would fit right in with this team…

ICARUS is fast and nimble… Team Sonic or Lilac's Team would be a nice pick overall. I don't see other teams winning this for them…

VAN-UBER is a relatively newer team and from what I gathered from the report I think that a free agent team would fit the bill overall. Not much else can be said about this, Van-Uber team.

TIGRON bought out QIREX Systems all those years ago. It would be wise to know that they don't play fair, but their racing habits and management prove the contrary. I don't know where to begin with them.

Well, I think it's time that I started the process… Damn, I wish I did this tomorrow or even had time to scout myself, but it looks as if the teams want in on the action.)

Rico got a cup of tea as one of his assistants came into the room. He wasn't very interested at the current reports nor was he interested by what was happening outside… He just wanted to end the interviews as fast as possible. But no sooner than that thought came to mind, he saw four sets of teams outside, not a team and nine free agents…

(So, it looks like we'll have a few good racers.)

"Well, since we have newly formed teams, who wants to go first?"

"Well, if it's no problems, can we do our interview first?" Maria commented.

"Sure."

As Rico walked into the tent, Nicole, Maria and Mighty followed behind him. They were a bit on edge since they got to Starlight Rapids and more importantly, Maria and Nicole were internally panicking because up to this point, they were considered dead or not alive, in a sense. Rico sat down and they followed suit.

"So, introduce yourself."

Rico commented as he signaled his assistant to get some refreshments to ease the nerves of this team. As the refreshments were presented, Nicole went for the Dr. Ginger, Maria just took a Coke and Mighty went for the Masterade (Cherry flavored).

"Well, my name is Mighty D. Armadillo. I'll be running as the scout for Team Impossible."

"Ah, what made you decide on scouting?"

"Considering that Maria wanted to be able to fix the gears and Nicole has some experience with the public during the few times she was digitized into Mobius, it was fair for me to scout out ahead. I did that while with the Chaotix and I figure I do it again."

"Fair enough. How about you?"

"I'm Nicole Acorn. No relation to Princess Sally Acorn of Knottinghole. I was originally an AI assisting Sally, but after seeing a way to permanently become alive, I kinda took that chance."

"So, how are you holding? Any problems adjusting to this new life?"

"Aside from actually eating and using the facilities, nope. Thank you for asking."

"Just looking out for you. So, I take it you're going to lead this team?"

"Yes, though not in a good way. I wanted to be the mechanic but everyone found theirs. Breezie's team took Ken and Julie is doing the gears on Honey's team. Maria is better than me in designing some great gears and since I'm now alive, I don't have the same privileges I had when I was the AI. So, against my better judgement, I became the lead."

"Wow… Will you be ok with that?"

"I have to if we're to beat everyone."

"I understand. That just leaves you."

"Indeed, I'm Maria Robotnik… I'm going to be the mechanic for Team Impossible. I'm not a huge fan of violence, but since I've recovered in the wards of the Angels of Chaos, I've been studying the circuit and who to watch out for. I'll need to get back into the scheme of building again but I did take a few courses since recovery."

"The better question for you is, are you ok with some violence as long as it doesn't kill?"

"Well, as long as the killing as absent, then it's ok. I prefer that I didn't have to use weapons, but thus is the nature of the beast. I'll manage."

"Well, this is a bit interesting as a whole. Aside from Mighty, you guys are a bit at odds with the positions you've landed."

"But, the only way to win against the likes of Sonic and the others is to understand the roles and then become victorious. I believe this is the route we have to tread."

"Indeed."

(Something about Maria and Nicole is very off. They both have doubts about what they are about to face. Nicole isn't thrilled about being the lead while Maria is a pacifist. I feel like this team will be tested first on how they manage as a team.)

"If you all have no questions, I'll see the next team…"

Rico was a bit lost because he saw potential in Team Impossible and there was so many nasty cogs that needed to be fixed before they would become the team they could be. Maria looked away as Nicole and Mighty left in some spirit between them. To Nicole and Mighty, they knew what to do. Maria, on the other hand wasn't as sure as she wanted it to be.

Rico signaled the next team to enter and to his surprise, it as the Hooligans that came next. As Rico began to look into what questions he had for them, one thing was for certain: He needed to see if they were signed on before the other teams would get offers. QIREX wasn't a team that played fair in the past as shown in TIGRON in times past.

Fang, Bean and Bark came in and began eyeing the place. They knew that Rico was fishing for how they got funded. The truth they held was, they already got scouted but needed to keep quiet about who scouted them and why they chose them. Fang sat down first and then Bark. Bean decided to stay standing because he was getting iffy about the thought of sitting down without something to do. Rico got his notes out and began the interview.

"We meet again."

"Yep. Surprised?"

"At first, yes. But as I began looking at the new prospects, the inclusion of you lot seemed normal."

"And, what of it?"

"What boss said."

"Well, you didn't have the fees and the background check came back inconclusive. Since then, you have cleaned up your acts, but to be able to participate, someone spotted you the money."

"A few people did. We also did some jobs that were, less than worthy to be honest. We got spotted the money and as much as we wanted to do whatever we wanted, we thought it would be priceless to reenter the events and then rub it in your face."

As much as Rico wanted to throw them out, never to return, the payment was made and he had to honor the payment made. He continued to read the room and to his surprise, they didn't show any signals of mischief or any signs of ill-intent.

"Well, as long as you cause no trouble, I can't throw you out."

"Good to know. Hey, here's all of our designations."

"Hm.. Bark as scout, Bean as mechanic and you going to play team lead. Figures that you would make the team like that."

"It's better that way."

"Besides, Bark here doesn't talk very loudly and I'm not 'suitable' for the public eye. Better that we let Fang do his magic while I do mine."

"Bean, easy. No need to get antsy. Remember, fair. We don't want to get kicked out before we even raced our first race."

Rico was a bit uncomfortable about how relaxed Fang was. For that matter, Bark was very composed as well. Only Bean was acting as normal, but if that was the extent of what the Hooligans were going to do, then Rico could get used to this, change in attitude.

"We'll excuse ourselves. Bean needs to get our boards in order while Bark and I play cards."

"Just remember what I said."

"No worries. We'll cause no trouble."

The Hooligans left briskly, but as per Fang's statement, they began doing what Fang said out to do. Rico took ten minutes to calm down.

Team Hooligans, Starlight Rapids, 5:42 PM

"Fang, man, are we really going to play fair?"

"Yeah. With weapons being allowed, we should have no problem doing things. Besides, winning gives us more money and if we stay focused, then we will be able to relax during the offseason."

"But, are we really going to give up being, you know, shady?"

"With virtually no jobs coming to us, why not?"

"Good point. Bark, got somethin to say?"

"Nope."

"Wow, you spoke up."

"Bean, it's not surprising to hear Bark when he isn't whispering."

"I do have a loud voice. I could try talking normally."

"You know what, that's a brilliant idea, Bark. Bean, do your thing. Bark and I fin to play some cards while finding the right volume without hurting the big guy."

"Kay. No explosives?"

"None."

"FINE…"

Rico, Rico's Tent, 6:01PM

"Bring on the next team."

"Sure thing. Boss, you ok? You look a bit pale."

"Really? Well, I'm a bit under the clock. After you get the next team, care to get me something to drink?"

"The usual?"

"The usual. Thanks Sam."

Sam presented the next team. It was Breezie, Ken and Lupe. They walked in and Lupe immediately separated from Ken and Breezie. Ken looked puzzled while Breezie held a disgusted look on her face. Just as Rico was about to start, Julie-Su walked in.

"Heya, sorry for the intrusion, but Mina just got here and personally, I don't want to be the mechanic."

"Sweetie, hold on. If you want, Ken is doing the mechanic work here. If you don't mind being the scout, then we can do a last minute trade between Lupe here and yourself."

"Fine by me. Seeing that Lupe isn't sitting with you two, I'm sure she would better fit with Mina and Honey."

"That would be preferred. I dislike Breezie, no offense to Ken though."

"None taken."

"Understandable. I'm a bit of a bitch from time to time. Run along to another loser team while Julie joins the winning squad."

"Hmph."

Lupe walked off quickly so not to breath the same air as Breezie. Julie-Su walked over and joined the rest of the team.

"Just so you know, that was a business transaction, Breezie. I take it that the respect will need to be earned?"

"Not really. Just ridding her is more than enough for me to recognize you. Besides, she wasn't scout material."

"Ladies, let's just start now. I believe Rico is getting impatient."

"No, no, please continue. I'm more than patient and considering that you made the roles perfectly clear, all that is left in the intent and ambition."

"Both are about winning. Ken is excellent with electricity and his way with EGs have been exceptional thus far."

"Breezie, you give me far too much credit. We have a road ahead of us."

"Well aware of that. With Julie scouting and me holding the media, all we really need to do is succeed and win."

"Breezie, that's easier said than done. Looking at the experienced teams, we have a ways to go to even compare to them."

"I agree with Julie here. Let's look to win, but not let arrogance blind us."

"You two need to relax a bit. We'll take losses, but as long as we win that lovely championship, everything else doesn't matter."

"Well, you do realize that the road to that is very difficult. With the main events excluded, you have side events as well. For instance, there's the series "Speedforce: [Enter Gender Here]" and that helps with the points."

"Points?"

"Yep, there's a point system and because every team here will be contracted, it would behoove you to read the conditions of the contracts."

"Something I'm accustomed to."

"Indeed."

"Well, Rico, we're off to relax before we have to travel."

"Understood. If you need anything, my assistants will help with anything."

"Thank you. Well, we'll be off."

"Nice to talk to you, Rico."

"See ya. Don't overwork yourself."

(I wish I didn't have to. But, there's one more team here and four more teams later tonight before I can rest easier.)

Rico signaled Sam to bring in the final team at the tent. Honey, Mina and Lupe all came in with smiles on their faces and all three of them sat together, a pleasant sight for Rico.

"Before you ask, good sir, We're Team NFS."

"I take it Nature, Fashion and Song?"

"Exactly. How did you guess?"

"Um, Honey, it's not hard when you're a fashion designer, I'm a songwriter and Lupe here is the hiker."

"Well, I like to hike. Also, this will only be my sixth time being on a board. Please, be easy on me."

"Of course! Had Mina showed up on time, we wouldn't have even considered Julie-Su. Also, here's the registration fees for Mina."

Rico accepted the papers and fees needed for Mina to enter. With her paperwork in order, Rico signaled Sam to close off registration. Sam did exactly that while Rico continued the interview.

"So, I take it you want to win to boost sales?"

"That too. We're in it to win and we want to impress Harimau."

"Harimau?"

"Yeah. They are the only team that use alternative energy to power their AG ships. We plan on doing something similar to get the most out of our buck. Also, it would be Mobian-Friendly and that would put Lupe at ease."

"Is that true?"

"Yes. I believe that with alternative energy like hydroelectric or solar/lunar charged EGs, we can bring a new, safer game plan into motion."

"So, Mina is going to be the mechanic?"

"Don't laugh, she has a degree in Mobian Energy Mechanics."

"What kind of degree?"

"A Master's, Rico. I may not look it, but I can build things that Tails and Ivo could only dream of."

"I'm holding you to that."

"I'm going to lead while Lupe scouts. She's great with shortcuts and knowing the layout of a track."

"You're good with that?"

"Yes, I'm very good with that respect. Also, I do have a bit of a grudge with Blaze…"

"Why her?"

"Blaze called her out and Lupe got into the moment."

"I admit that it's a bit petty, but I'm not doing much right now. So, why not put the 'Princess of the Sol Dimension' down a few pegs."

"Very ambitious."

"Well, is there anything else we needed to do or answer?"

"Not from me. Enjoy the evening."

With that, they left quickly and quietly to their tent. Rico signaled one of his assistants to bring him dinner while he prepared for the night session of interviews. On Rico's mind, he began to ponder how he was going to do with another organization funding the teams. Would they be treated fairly or pushed to the edge like the AG pilots from the series prior?

"Sir, dinner is going to be a bit late. One of the chefs is having an, "attack"."

"No problem. Is the crew from the station here yet?"

"Indeed. They arrived just when Julie-Su took the scouting position from Lupe. Do you wish to meet with them?"

"Yep."

As Sam left to get the first team, Rico was a bit pleased to realize that they came sooner than expected. With all the teams at the Starlight Rapids, Rico began his last set of interviews for the series and was delighted to see Team TAS show up first. Tikal and Cosmo came in with some hesitance but got a bit more comfortable when Rotor showed up. To them, this was their first good opportunity impressed and they didn't want to disappoint Rico with a lackluster interview.

"So, I see that you made it."

"Yeah, we we're a bit nervous."

"What for?"

"Well, Sonic and the gang told a lot of racing stories and we we're captivated by the action and passion the teams gave."

"Well, you was distracted by Tails."

"It's Miles and I was not."

"Then why did you put on some lipstick and a racing formal dress?"

"Because I thought that was racing attire."

"Yeah right…."

"Not you too, Tikal."

"I don't like lying. Besides, why are you ashamed? It's not like he's going to play you for someone else."

"I know, but once we start racing, I'll get less time to see him and all."

"According to Ames, that's not going to be the case."

"Rotor is correct, Cosmo. Your team will have scheduled breaks throughout the week to relax and recharge. Also, the teams did agree not to interfere with the personal lives of you all."

"That's nice to hear. At least I know when and where my focus should be."

"Tikal, let Rico know who's doing what."

"No problem. I'm going to be team lead while Cosma here scouts and Rotor…"

"Is the mechanic. Question, why do you call Cosmo, Cosma?"

"It's a nickname I gave her months ago. Is there a problem?"

"Nope. Just curious that's all."

"Well, I do have a question. I know that the 450 series was held in the Metropolis region. So, with us going there, is it safe to assume that the same AG companies are going to sponsor us?"

"Indeed."

"Tikal, who do you think is going to pick us up?"

"Like from the Metropolis port or team to sponsor us?"

"Team to sponsor."

"If I was to make a guess, maybe Van-Uber?"

"Why them, Ti?"

"Well Rotor, it's mainly because they're new to the series and if they wanted to, they could have scouted already, but they didn't. Also, they did send you that email, correct?"

"Well, that was Qirex, but that wasn't to say that I didn't try to look. Van-Uber was the only team to contact me back!"

"That's wonderful news!"

"Cosma, that's isn't good at all. This means that the other teams are actively looking."

"Indeed. If we are to beat the Big 3, we'll need to hope that Van-Uber's tech and offer is enough."

"I didn't expect so much competition and rivalries amongst the teams."

"Van-Uber is playing safe right now and with their concentrated efforts on us, I think it's safe to assume that we'll get picked up by them at the very worst. At best, Assegai will be eying us."

"I hate to interrupt this meeting, but I have three more teams to finish before night's end."

"My apologies! Cosma, Rotor, let's continue this at the tent."

"Not a problem, Ti."

"Sure thing."

The team left in a hurry to continue the conversation elsewhere and Rico began to paint the bigger picture between what the teams were doing behind the scenes and how each team began to plan accordingly.

(I see now. Some teams invested in the 450 series and to my surprise, others have begun active scouting. Something tells me that the trials at Syncopia will determine who is signed with what team. Perhaps I should see into the matter.)

"Sam, I need you to check some of the older teams. See if they got scouted…"

"That's easy, sir. I've seen the following this afternoon: Team Sonic got a visit from Marla representing AG Systems, Team Dark talked with Sefer of EG.X, Ringo talked big to the Rogues while Ana at Piranha met with Sakura. To finish, Dwayne saw the Chaotix and lastly, Nava from Assegai scouted out Team Freedom. Anything else, sir?"

(Just as expected. They want in on the action and by openly scouting, they wish to gain some insight on who is scouting who. They wouldn't scout without first making an agreement. I bet that they wouldn't make deals until the Syncopia Trials are complete. That said, I believe that I should keep Harry close for now to see if this is a ruse or if this might profit us all. I'll work on the next team.)

"Next!"

As Rico announced the next team to enter, he was a bit perplexed. He saw that Marine, Silver and Neera came in, but the team itself was odd to him. Assuming that Neera was taking lead, he knew what Silver and Marine roles were by default.

"So, Neera, Silver and Marine…"

"Please, just Team Ambition."

"Why the name?"

"I got this, Nee. Neera wants to be able to win without the help of others. I want to create the best in EGs and Silver is looking for approval."

"Blaze's approval?"

"Yeah, in a sense. But, I want to be recognized by Shadow and Sonic as one of them and not this, slowhog…"

"But, you're the scout."

"I know that, but maybe I can outdo them despite me scouting…"

"Silver, this isn't the time to be prideful. Besides, you playing scout means that Knuckles, Rouge and Storm will be on your radar."

"I forgot about them…"

"Need I remind you Silver that it's fine to be friendly on down time, but when it gets hot and heavy…"

"I know, I know. Eyes on the prize."

"Silver, I know that Blaze is our sister, but she's leading a team. Meanwhile, we're going into this series blind. We don't know if we'll be in the money."

"Silver, Marine, I know I'm new to Mobius but, what is 'In the Money'?"

"In the Money means top 3."

"So, all we need to do is make top 3 then."

"That's easier said than done, Nee."

"Why you say that, Marine?"

"Did you not watch the footage?"

"Silver, I assure you I did."

"Then you would know why then."

Neera then realized why Silver was miffed. Sonic and Shadow don't normally lose when the chips are down. For that matter, Jet and Ivo were notorious about winning in the clutch.

"I think Nee just realize the competition."

"I think so too. Well, we better get set. Neera, we should go."

"Yeah, I think we… should."

(This is very interesting. Neera up until now seemed very confident in her skills. But after recollecting the race footage at Metal Highway, she may have made a grievous error. A serious lack in judgement for any captain.)

"Sam, the next team please."

"Right away, sir."

Sam signaled the next team and he was expecting this team as he was watching before he got the phone call. It was Lilac's team. Lilac, Carol and Torque all walked in with smiles on their faces. Apparently, their trip was decent for them to be smiling.

"So, I take it that you three finally got into the swing of things."

"Yes sir. We don't have a name, but we're debating between the Speed Demons or the Blur."

"I still think Speed Demons are great."

"Carol, inappropriate."

"Torque is right you know, but I do like the name… I don't know right now."

"Well, something I do know is our positions. I called dibs on scouting."

"I'm the mechanic."

"Which puts me as the captain of this team."

"You don't seem impressed by that."

"Well, I'm not good with machines and scouting is better done by this crazy wildcat ninja."

"Watch that tongue of yours, Lilac."

"Well, something we should get ready for is the Syncopia Trials."

"Indeed. You guys needs to be on the ball, seeing that the AG teams are scouting and looking to make deals."

"Well, we better not disappoint them then."

"Lilac, you do realize that we need to keep our heads above the water."

"I know, but what good are we if we can't win. Ms. VIP is giving it her all, why not we?"

"I understand that, but if we don't get our priorities in order to compete and win, we won't stand a chance."

"Torque, stop being a worrywart."

"Carol is right. Win or Bust!"

"Well, I guess we need to get set then…"

"Send in the last team waiting on your way out."

"Sure thing, sir."

As Lilac's team left the tent, Rico was all too happy to see his final team was on the way and it was Spade's team. It was Spade, Gong and Millia who walked in and they were looking as normal as they should, though Gong was grabbing drinks for the team.

"So, we're the last team for the night."

"Spade, easy…"

"I know. This isn't the first time we had to anchor a day."

"Yeah, but truth be told, we have that meeting with the Mirage representative in ten minutes."

"Hold on… Did you just say, you have a meeting with a Mirage representative?"

"Indeed. It's likely to express interest and see about keeping us in mind. We got approached when we got to the rapids. I also saw a logo of some winged shoes on another briefcase…"

(ICARUS is also scouting this evening… And thanks to TAS, Van-Uber has been teleconferencing Team TAS. This is a bit unsettling, but tomorrow when we get to Metropolis, I'll know who the teams will be managed…)

"Before I forget, Rico, I'm leading. Gong will be the mechanic and Millia is happily going to scout."

"That's good to know. I take it you need to leave."

"Indeed. We'll talk more later, Rico…"

Spade's team briskly left as they had business to tend to. Rico, now done with the interviews got on the line with Doug. He wanted answers and Doug was the one to give him such answers. Just as he got on the line, he was presented with dinner by Sam.

"Good timing."

"As always, sir. I take it that you're going to call Mr. Harry?"

"Yes. I got questions that he might be able to answer."

No sooner than he finished that statement, he got a call. It was Doug.

"Rico speaking."

"Rico, Doug. I take it that you didn't get a chance to read the email."

"I just got done with the last of my interviews."

"Well, let me hip you on what's to happen:

As of the day after the trials, each team will go out and officially look to sign their team of choice. The teams will continue to work independently and the liaisons will relay messages and overall manage the media for the teams. Also, the AG teams will have very little to say about how they race because this isn't their avenue. They want in, but they are fans, like the rest of us."

"So, you're telling me that the teams will continue to operate without interference from the AG teams?"

"Outside of meetings, yep. The AG teams want to understand what they're about to watch."

"Good to know. Well, I'm going to relax. I'll inform the teams while we travel tomorrow."

"See you at Moa Therma."

"Indeed. We'll see you at Moa Therma."

The conversation ended with Rico relieved and pleased that the only thing the teams were actively doing was scouting and signing. It did pose further questions that needed to be addressed overall and Rico wanted to know more about it. For now though, he was content on knowing that the teams will have an identity independent from that of the AG teams,

We rested with that notion in mind.

Editor Note: Sorry this was taking so long. School and being a husband has took a toll, but overall, I'm going to get back into the swing of things. Also, this is the last chapter that I'm going to upload solo. From hereon, I will post two-five chapters at a time to better spread out what I plan on doing in the oncoming future. R.X. Hurdle