Part 7--TWO BATTLES-ONE RACE
The field of cars entered in the Raytona Road Rally was lined up and ready as the time drew close for the start. Being as this was a large scale racing event, all the pomp, and fanfare that went with one such event, accompanied this one. The National Guard was there to present the colors and after which there was a benediction from a prominent area minister followed by the National Anthem sung by a lovely young girl with an incredible coloratura voice. Then the owner of the track then stepped up to the podium and said those famous words over the PA system:
"GENTLEMEN, START YOUR ENGINES!"
The air was filled with the unmistakable roars of pistons compressing, igniting spark plugs burning rich mixtures of gas and oxygen as all 32 cars in the field fired up, sending clouds of exhaust to the sultry air. Engines revved repeatedly as the drivers warmed them up, keeping a vigilant eye on the water and oil temperature gauges on their dashboards as they all waited for the pace car to get into position to take them around the track in a parade lap.
Speed revved the Mach 5's motor to get it to maximum temperature and satisfied, drove up into position for the field. He took note from his peripheral vision that Pistone was right beside him and he grit his teeth, determined to not only beat him but crush him. He focused his eyes straight ahead, his goal to win uppermost in his mind. The pace car led the field out of the pits and onto the track, to begin the parade laps for the spectators to view all of the cars but also for the drivers to have a chance to heat up their tires to improve grip on the varied terrain they would encounter. Speed did just that, zigzagging back and forth to get his tires heated and loosen himself for the rally.
The cars whistled around the track as the crowd roared its approval. A whole section began chanting "Speed! Speed! Speed! as he drove by and he grinned as he got antsy to begin. Finally the pace car pealed of to the pits as the field got the green flag and rumbled as drivers accelerated around the track one more lap before heading out on the course. The lap was completed and the cars took off onto the road, the rally begun. The crowd then became riveted to the four large screens set up around the track to monitor the road rally via television as the field thundered down the southern route through town and headed toward the outskirts, which would lead to the Neverglades.
Meantime, Wiley was sitting in his limousine and with his window rolled down briefed his rogues gallery on their tasks for the race.
"Now all of you I want you all out on the course. You all have your assignments and the objective is clear-the Alpha Team must win! And remember, pull the dirty trick first." He dismissed them with a wave of his hand and closed the window. He settled back into the plush cushions and turned to his left and addressed the bound and gagged figure of Trixie, who had come to and regarded the man with wide, terrified eyes.
"Well, Miss Shimura, I can't tell you how pleased I am to have your delightful company to watch the race." He gestured to the television screen before them in the partition separating him from his driver.
Trixie watched the field of racers as the cars were shown speeding toward the Neverglades and another screen was showing activity by Wiley's thugs on the course, placing obstacles on the road, changing road signs and other sneaky devises. Her eyes then became soft as she spotted the familiar white car with the 5 in a red circle and "M" on the hood pull into the lead. She felt her heart pound as she silently wished Speed the best, knowing that no matter their current differences she loved him and wanted what he did, which was to win.
Wiley eyed her expression with interest. "I see your beau has taken the lead. He's a very talented young man." He sighed theatrically, "It's really a shame that he won't win this race." He smiled a smarmy smile at her that gave her a chill down her spine and a feeling of dread in her stomach.
Wiley then reached over to remove Trixie's gag. "I'm safe in assuming that you won't scream. It would be pointless to do so because the only one to hear you would be my driver and he is not affected by anything that takes place back here. He's extremely loyal to me," he told her.
Trixie took a deep breath. "Why have you done this? What do you hope to accomplish?"
Wiley smiled nastily, "I'm really very upset by your refusal to join my team. So I feel recompense is due to me for the time and effort I made in trying to secure your services. So here's what will take place. We will watch the race and see who wins. If one of my drivers wins and you agree to reconsider my offer, I will let you go. If you refuse again or Speed Racer wins, you will die."
"Oh!" Trixie gasped, incredulous at the man's words.
"That's why you're here with me, Miss Shimura. I know that you were to spot for him and without your guidance his chances of winning have decreased. If he wins and you die, his chances in the coming season will also drop. Just call it my insurance policy.
Trixie's eyes grew huge with the realization. "You're crazy!"
Wiley chuckled deviously, "Like a fox, my dear. I will remove the tool that is most vital to the Go Team for their effectiveness. Thus so they will cease to be my greatest threat in winning the Formula 1 championship."
Trixie shuddered as she let the words sink in. The threat hung over her like a cloud as she watched the race, her heart heavy and torn.
In the meantime, Speed was winding his way into the Neverglades swamp, leading the pack. As he drove along, he began wondering why he hadn't heard from Trixie, she usually would have checked in at least once. Maybe she's still sore at me he mused but it didn't make sense, they were in a race and in a race they usually put all personal feelings aside. Frowning, he picked up the mike, pushed the button and spoke.
"Mach 5 to Bluebird, Come in Bluebird."
The radio sounded with some static, but no Trixie.
Speed was getting annoyed. "Mach 5 to Bluebird. Answer me, Trixie!"
"Speed?" Sparky's voice came over the radio.
An icy chill of concern gripped Speed's belly as he heard the voice of his mechanic and not his girlfriend. "Sparky? What gives? And where's Trixie?" he demanded.
"I dunno Speed. I went to talk to her before the race started and she wasn't around so I'm in her chopper and I'll spot for ya,"
"I wonder why she wasn't there. She told me she was going to spot and stay with the team. I hope she didn't change her mind and leave," Speed said with his heart constricting at the thought.
"I figured that maybe she got sick or something. Otherwise, she'd be here."
"Yeah," Speed said grimly, worried that she might be sick. "Well, I'll check up on her when the race is over or maybe I'll radio Pops and ask him to go and look for her."
"Yeah. Don't worry, Speed, I'm sure she's okay. We'll just concentrate on the race."
"Okay, Sparky. So how'm I doing?"
"So far so good. You're about two and seven tenths seconds in the lead. Cars 9 and 18 are right behind you but with the lead you have, I wouldn't worry," Sparky said.
"Uh-huh," Speed answered absently, his thoughts on Trixie. This isn't like her he said to himself So then where the hell is she?
"You okay, pal?" Sparky asked.
"Huh? Oh yeah," Speed said with false calmness. "Let's win this thing."
"You got it. Over and out."
Speed replaced the mike on the radio and with effort got his mind focused on the race. In his concern about both Trixie and the race he forgot to turn the knob for transmissions only when he replaced the mike. He gripped the steering wheel determinedly clearing his mind but could not shake the cold feeling of dread that enveloped him.
The race pressed on. Several of the field fell victim to the traps set by Wiley's goons, causing several cars to spin out or crash, putting them out of the race. Speed was not immune from the skullduggery but his special functions of the Mach 5, the Autojack, the Special grip tires, and the circular saws were able to keep him in front and rolling along. Speed's two closest competitors were however not far behind, as he headed through the String of Pearls. He contacted Sparky in Trixie's chopper.
"Mach 5 to Sparky, come in."
"I'm right here, Speed."
"Tell me how we look, Spark."
"Well, you're maintainin' your lead, but not by much. 9 and 18 are hot on your trail," Sparky informed him.
"Okie-doakie. I'll keep my eyes on 'em," Speed assured.
Speed and the cars driven by Phil Pistone and Racer X headed into the Billy Hills and Speed slowed down to maneuver through the winding, narrow, and rocky path. Speed called on every ounce of his conditioning and talent to drive the difficult road at a rapid pace trying to stay in the lead. But the rough terrain had slowed him down considerably, allowing for Pistone to catch up. Speed glanced in his rear-view mirror and cursed silently as the number 18 car appeared right on his bumper.
The two racers continued on the road up the first mountain and down to the second, practically neck and neck, reaching the most challenging and treacherous part. It was here that the road narrowed and was flanked by an eighty-foot wall of rock on one side and a 100 foot drop on the other. The road was barely wide enough for two cars so passing would be difficult if not impossible. As they reached the most narrow part of the road, Pistone got a run on Speed and made his move, pushing past the young racer and causing two wheels of the Mach 5 to go off the edge as he pulled past. Speed gasped in dismay as he felt the car list and begin to topple so he pushed Control A and autojacked the Mach 5 over about fifty feet to an area of the road that was broader and less dangerous. But Pistone had gained a second and a half lead so for the first time in the race, Speed found himself playing catch up.
Meantime, Sparky was flying the helicopter above the Flatlands and figured he would check in with Speed so he reached for the radio. He turned it on and was about to pick up the mike when a sound startled him
"Blackhawk to home base, come in."
A squawk of static then, "This is home base. Go ahead."
"Phil's taken the lead from Racer-the kid's back about two seconds and losing time. Looks like we'll win this one handily."
"Really? Well, I guess I might have to let Miss Shimura go. And I was so enjoying her company," Wiley's voice purred over the radio.
A laugh then, "Where you have her, boss?"
"She's here in my car enjoying the race with me. I'm trying to convince her to join our happy little group."
"And?"
"Poor girl just doesn't understand what is good for her. Looks like I'll have to take care of her," Wiley's voice answered in pseudo-regret.
"Okay, boss. I'll see ya after the race."
"Huh?" Sparky expostulated. His heart sank with the realization that the owner of the Alpha Team had snatched Trixie and that was why she was gone at the start of the race. He became even more frightened by the last remark, that they intended to "take care of her." He frantically thought as what to do. He then picked up the mike and called the pit.
"Sparky to Pops, Sparky to Pops. Come in Pops, it's an emergency!"
While driving toward through the Sycamore National Forest toward the Flatlands, Speed perked up when he heard Sparky's voice over the radio calling for Pops in such a panic. He listened and then reached for the mike to ask Sparky what the emergency was when what he heard next made his blood run cold.
"What's up, Sparky?" Pops asked.
"Pops, I just heard over the radio. The Alpha Team's nabbed Trixie."
"WHAT?! Are you kidding?" Pops bellowed in disbelief.
"WHAT THE HELL??" Speed roared into his mike
"S-Speed, buddy, I had no idea you were tuned in," Sparky stammered.
"Where do they have her, Sparky? Tell me, damn it!" he screamed.
"Speed, son take it easy," Pops said shakily.
"I gotta go find her," Speed snapped.
"NO!" Pops exclaimed. "You're in the middle of a race, Speed. You need to focus."
"The hell with the race! Trixie's in danger!" Speed insisted but Pops cut him off.
"Speed, get a grip! You can't do anything but try to win the race. I'll get a hold of Inspector Detector and I'll find her, I promise. Sparky, keep spotting."
"I'm hip, Pops. Consider it done. D'ya hear that, Speed?'"
"Yeah, I heard," Speed replied tersely. "And I'll keep on 'cause there's nothing else I can do, but please, Pops, find her."
"I will, son."
"Don't worry, Pops'll find her, Speed. Let's just try to win this race, okay? Over and out."
Speed gritted his teeth in fury That slime, that lowdown filthy slime. If he touches one hair on her head, I swear I'll tear him limb from limb. He jammed his foot on the accelerator, flooring it and the Mach 5 shot forward as he sped away, his knuckles prominent through his gloves as he gripped the wheel.
As he approached the Flatlands, Speed really gave the Mach 5 the gun, pulling closer and closer to Pistone. Soon he had gained enough ground on the Italian racer to pull the nose of the Mach 5 to the rear right quarter panel and make a run on him. As he passed, Speed turned and shouted at Pistone, "Pistone, I know that Wiley nabbed my girl and I'm tellin' ya, if your boss hurts Trixie, you're both dead!" He then roared past.
Pistone caught up to him and laughed, "Racer, you're crazy. What are you talking about?"
"Don't play dumb with me Pistone! I know that your boss, that snake Wiley's got her and I'm gonna make you both sorry that you were ever born!" Speed railed.
"You're a big talker, Racer. But talk isa cheap! You better win the race first, then worry about your little girlfriend. That is ifa you can beat me!" Pistone screamed back with a diabolical laugh.
Speed snarled, "I'm gonna beat you, then after that I'm gonna beat your ass. And if Trixie's hurt, I'll put you in the morgue!" He pulled away as the Mach 5 retook the lead heading to the checkpoint.
The checkpoint where the rally racers would get liquids and record their mileage was straight ahead and Speed came to a screeching halt while race officials leaned in and took the mileage. Mom Racer approached with a bottle of sports drink for Speed.
"Here, Speed. You must be thirsty." She handed her son the bottle, which he took and downed.
He handed the empty bottle back and said forlornly, "Mom, the Alpha Team's got Trixie."
Mom patted her son's shoulder comfortingly. "I know, son. Pops is doing everything he can and we'll find her. You just finish the race."
"I will, Mom." Speed waved as he took off.
Back at the track, Pops was overseeing the crew in the pit stall and periodically glanced about as he was looking for someone. Spritle took note and asked his father, "Gee, Pops what gives?"
Pops looked at his youngest son. Spritle's precociousness would usually have him right in the know of everything going on, he would put in his two cents worth whether it was wanted or not so he made sure that he kept Spritle occupied while he contacted Inspector Detector to try to locate Trixie. But now, looking at the fear in his seven-year-old's worried face, he broke down.
"Spritle, we have a problem. Trixie's been kidnapped."
Spritle's eyes grew huge then narrowed as he cried, "Who did it, Pops? Who'd wanna hurt Trixie?"
"A very bad man who wants to win the race more than anything. And he'll stop at nothing to do it."
Spritle's hands balled into fists. "Well, what are we waiting for, Pops? Let's go find her 'cause Speedy can't, he's racing. C'mon Chim Chim." His chimp chattered and nodded but Pops laid a restraining hand on the youngster.
"Hold it now. We have to wait for Inspector Detector. He's gonna help us find Trixie," Pops said to the impatient boy as the tall imposing figure of the Interpol inspector came over.
Spritle ran over to the officer. "Inspector Detector a bad man has Trixie! We have to save her!"
Detector nodded at the boy and regarded Pops closely. "I came as soon as I could Mr. Racer. I have a dossier on Wiley, Fixer, and the Alpha Team." He proffered a manila envelope and skimmed through it, handing Pops a document. "It appears that Wiley has had underworld connections for a long time but he's trying to go legit with racing. But old habits die hard."
"So how do we find where he is?" Pops asked anxiously.
"Wiley likes to stay close to the team so chances are he's in his car somewhere on the track grounds and that's where he's got Trixie stashed."
"Well, what're we waiting for?" Spritle demanded. "Let's go, c'mon Chim Chim." He made to run off but Pops stopped him.
"Spritle, it's too dangerous for you. You stay here," Pops ordered as his youngest protested.
Detector agreed, "Yes, Spritle it's way too dangerous for you. We can't let you go, you could get hurt."
Spritle drew himself up and answered indignantly, "I can help find her since my big brother can't. I want to."
Pops was firm. "Spritle, I said no, and I mean NO!" He turned to leave with the inspector.
Spritle watched them leave and said to his monkey pal, "Well, Chim Chim, let's go. Pops saying no never stopped us before and Speedy would want us to help find Trixie. He really loves her." He scampered off with his chimp in tow.
The field of cars entered in the Raytona Road Rally was lined up and ready as the time drew close for the start. Being as this was a large scale racing event, all the pomp, and fanfare that went with one such event, accompanied this one. The National Guard was there to present the colors and after which there was a benediction from a prominent area minister followed by the National Anthem sung by a lovely young girl with an incredible coloratura voice. Then the owner of the track then stepped up to the podium and said those famous words over the PA system:
"GENTLEMEN, START YOUR ENGINES!"
The air was filled with the unmistakable roars of pistons compressing, igniting spark plugs burning rich mixtures of gas and oxygen as all 32 cars in the field fired up, sending clouds of exhaust to the sultry air. Engines revved repeatedly as the drivers warmed them up, keeping a vigilant eye on the water and oil temperature gauges on their dashboards as they all waited for the pace car to get into position to take them around the track in a parade lap.
Speed revved the Mach 5's motor to get it to maximum temperature and satisfied, drove up into position for the field. He took note from his peripheral vision that Pistone was right beside him and he grit his teeth, determined to not only beat him but crush him. He focused his eyes straight ahead, his goal to win uppermost in his mind. The pace car led the field out of the pits and onto the track, to begin the parade laps for the spectators to view all of the cars but also for the drivers to have a chance to heat up their tires to improve grip on the varied terrain they would encounter. Speed did just that, zigzagging back and forth to get his tires heated and loosen himself for the rally.
The cars whistled around the track as the crowd roared its approval. A whole section began chanting "Speed! Speed! Speed! as he drove by and he grinned as he got antsy to begin. Finally the pace car pealed of to the pits as the field got the green flag and rumbled as drivers accelerated around the track one more lap before heading out on the course. The lap was completed and the cars took off onto the road, the rally begun. The crowd then became riveted to the four large screens set up around the track to monitor the road rally via television as the field thundered down the southern route through town and headed toward the outskirts, which would lead to the Neverglades.
Meantime, Wiley was sitting in his limousine and with his window rolled down briefed his rogues gallery on their tasks for the race.
"Now all of you I want you all out on the course. You all have your assignments and the objective is clear-the Alpha Team must win! And remember, pull the dirty trick first." He dismissed them with a wave of his hand and closed the window. He settled back into the plush cushions and turned to his left and addressed the bound and gagged figure of Trixie, who had come to and regarded the man with wide, terrified eyes.
"Well, Miss Shimura, I can't tell you how pleased I am to have your delightful company to watch the race." He gestured to the television screen before them in the partition separating him from his driver.
Trixie watched the field of racers as the cars were shown speeding toward the Neverglades and another screen was showing activity by Wiley's thugs on the course, placing obstacles on the road, changing road signs and other sneaky devises. Her eyes then became soft as she spotted the familiar white car with the 5 in a red circle and "M" on the hood pull into the lead. She felt her heart pound as she silently wished Speed the best, knowing that no matter their current differences she loved him and wanted what he did, which was to win.
Wiley eyed her expression with interest. "I see your beau has taken the lead. He's a very talented young man." He sighed theatrically, "It's really a shame that he won't win this race." He smiled a smarmy smile at her that gave her a chill down her spine and a feeling of dread in her stomach.
Wiley then reached over to remove Trixie's gag. "I'm safe in assuming that you won't scream. It would be pointless to do so because the only one to hear you would be my driver and he is not affected by anything that takes place back here. He's extremely loyal to me," he told her.
Trixie took a deep breath. "Why have you done this? What do you hope to accomplish?"
Wiley smiled nastily, "I'm really very upset by your refusal to join my team. So I feel recompense is due to me for the time and effort I made in trying to secure your services. So here's what will take place. We will watch the race and see who wins. If one of my drivers wins and you agree to reconsider my offer, I will let you go. If you refuse again or Speed Racer wins, you will die."
"Oh!" Trixie gasped, incredulous at the man's words.
"That's why you're here with me, Miss Shimura. I know that you were to spot for him and without your guidance his chances of winning have decreased. If he wins and you die, his chances in the coming season will also drop. Just call it my insurance policy.
Trixie's eyes grew huge with the realization. "You're crazy!"
Wiley chuckled deviously, "Like a fox, my dear. I will remove the tool that is most vital to the Go Team for their effectiveness. Thus so they will cease to be my greatest threat in winning the Formula 1 championship."
Trixie shuddered as she let the words sink in. The threat hung over her like a cloud as she watched the race, her heart heavy and torn.
In the meantime, Speed was winding his way into the Neverglades swamp, leading the pack. As he drove along, he began wondering why he hadn't heard from Trixie, she usually would have checked in at least once. Maybe she's still sore at me he mused but it didn't make sense, they were in a race and in a race they usually put all personal feelings aside. Frowning, he picked up the mike, pushed the button and spoke.
"Mach 5 to Bluebird, Come in Bluebird."
The radio sounded with some static, but no Trixie.
Speed was getting annoyed. "Mach 5 to Bluebird. Answer me, Trixie!"
"Speed?" Sparky's voice came over the radio.
An icy chill of concern gripped Speed's belly as he heard the voice of his mechanic and not his girlfriend. "Sparky? What gives? And where's Trixie?" he demanded.
"I dunno Speed. I went to talk to her before the race started and she wasn't around so I'm in her chopper and I'll spot for ya,"
"I wonder why she wasn't there. She told me she was going to spot and stay with the team. I hope she didn't change her mind and leave," Speed said with his heart constricting at the thought.
"I figured that maybe she got sick or something. Otherwise, she'd be here."
"Yeah," Speed said grimly, worried that she might be sick. "Well, I'll check up on her when the race is over or maybe I'll radio Pops and ask him to go and look for her."
"Yeah. Don't worry, Speed, I'm sure she's okay. We'll just concentrate on the race."
"Okay, Sparky. So how'm I doing?"
"So far so good. You're about two and seven tenths seconds in the lead. Cars 9 and 18 are right behind you but with the lead you have, I wouldn't worry," Sparky said.
"Uh-huh," Speed answered absently, his thoughts on Trixie. This isn't like her he said to himself So then where the hell is she?
"You okay, pal?" Sparky asked.
"Huh? Oh yeah," Speed said with false calmness. "Let's win this thing."
"You got it. Over and out."
Speed replaced the mike on the radio and with effort got his mind focused on the race. In his concern about both Trixie and the race he forgot to turn the knob for transmissions only when he replaced the mike. He gripped the steering wheel determinedly clearing his mind but could not shake the cold feeling of dread that enveloped him.
The race pressed on. Several of the field fell victim to the traps set by Wiley's goons, causing several cars to spin out or crash, putting them out of the race. Speed was not immune from the skullduggery but his special functions of the Mach 5, the Autojack, the Special grip tires, and the circular saws were able to keep him in front and rolling along. Speed's two closest competitors were however not far behind, as he headed through the String of Pearls. He contacted Sparky in Trixie's chopper.
"Mach 5 to Sparky, come in."
"I'm right here, Speed."
"Tell me how we look, Spark."
"Well, you're maintainin' your lead, but not by much. 9 and 18 are hot on your trail," Sparky informed him.
"Okie-doakie. I'll keep my eyes on 'em," Speed assured.
Speed and the cars driven by Phil Pistone and Racer X headed into the Billy Hills and Speed slowed down to maneuver through the winding, narrow, and rocky path. Speed called on every ounce of his conditioning and talent to drive the difficult road at a rapid pace trying to stay in the lead. But the rough terrain had slowed him down considerably, allowing for Pistone to catch up. Speed glanced in his rear-view mirror and cursed silently as the number 18 car appeared right on his bumper.
The two racers continued on the road up the first mountain and down to the second, practically neck and neck, reaching the most challenging and treacherous part. It was here that the road narrowed and was flanked by an eighty-foot wall of rock on one side and a 100 foot drop on the other. The road was barely wide enough for two cars so passing would be difficult if not impossible. As they reached the most narrow part of the road, Pistone got a run on Speed and made his move, pushing past the young racer and causing two wheels of the Mach 5 to go off the edge as he pulled past. Speed gasped in dismay as he felt the car list and begin to topple so he pushed Control A and autojacked the Mach 5 over about fifty feet to an area of the road that was broader and less dangerous. But Pistone had gained a second and a half lead so for the first time in the race, Speed found himself playing catch up.
Meantime, Sparky was flying the helicopter above the Flatlands and figured he would check in with Speed so he reached for the radio. He turned it on and was about to pick up the mike when a sound startled him
"Blackhawk to home base, come in."
A squawk of static then, "This is home base. Go ahead."
"Phil's taken the lead from Racer-the kid's back about two seconds and losing time. Looks like we'll win this one handily."
"Really? Well, I guess I might have to let Miss Shimura go. And I was so enjoying her company," Wiley's voice purred over the radio.
A laugh then, "Where you have her, boss?"
"She's here in my car enjoying the race with me. I'm trying to convince her to join our happy little group."
"And?"
"Poor girl just doesn't understand what is good for her. Looks like I'll have to take care of her," Wiley's voice answered in pseudo-regret.
"Okay, boss. I'll see ya after the race."
"Huh?" Sparky expostulated. His heart sank with the realization that the owner of the Alpha Team had snatched Trixie and that was why she was gone at the start of the race. He became even more frightened by the last remark, that they intended to "take care of her." He frantically thought as what to do. He then picked up the mike and called the pit.
"Sparky to Pops, Sparky to Pops. Come in Pops, it's an emergency!"
While driving toward through the Sycamore National Forest toward the Flatlands, Speed perked up when he heard Sparky's voice over the radio calling for Pops in such a panic. He listened and then reached for the mike to ask Sparky what the emergency was when what he heard next made his blood run cold.
"What's up, Sparky?" Pops asked.
"Pops, I just heard over the radio. The Alpha Team's nabbed Trixie."
"WHAT?! Are you kidding?" Pops bellowed in disbelief.
"WHAT THE HELL??" Speed roared into his mike
"S-Speed, buddy, I had no idea you were tuned in," Sparky stammered.
"Where do they have her, Sparky? Tell me, damn it!" he screamed.
"Speed, son take it easy," Pops said shakily.
"I gotta go find her," Speed snapped.
"NO!" Pops exclaimed. "You're in the middle of a race, Speed. You need to focus."
"The hell with the race! Trixie's in danger!" Speed insisted but Pops cut him off.
"Speed, get a grip! You can't do anything but try to win the race. I'll get a hold of Inspector Detector and I'll find her, I promise. Sparky, keep spotting."
"I'm hip, Pops. Consider it done. D'ya hear that, Speed?'"
"Yeah, I heard," Speed replied tersely. "And I'll keep on 'cause there's nothing else I can do, but please, Pops, find her."
"I will, son."
"Don't worry, Pops'll find her, Speed. Let's just try to win this race, okay? Over and out."
Speed gritted his teeth in fury That slime, that lowdown filthy slime. If he touches one hair on her head, I swear I'll tear him limb from limb. He jammed his foot on the accelerator, flooring it and the Mach 5 shot forward as he sped away, his knuckles prominent through his gloves as he gripped the wheel.
As he approached the Flatlands, Speed really gave the Mach 5 the gun, pulling closer and closer to Pistone. Soon he had gained enough ground on the Italian racer to pull the nose of the Mach 5 to the rear right quarter panel and make a run on him. As he passed, Speed turned and shouted at Pistone, "Pistone, I know that Wiley nabbed my girl and I'm tellin' ya, if your boss hurts Trixie, you're both dead!" He then roared past.
Pistone caught up to him and laughed, "Racer, you're crazy. What are you talking about?"
"Don't play dumb with me Pistone! I know that your boss, that snake Wiley's got her and I'm gonna make you both sorry that you were ever born!" Speed railed.
"You're a big talker, Racer. But talk isa cheap! You better win the race first, then worry about your little girlfriend. That is ifa you can beat me!" Pistone screamed back with a diabolical laugh.
Speed snarled, "I'm gonna beat you, then after that I'm gonna beat your ass. And if Trixie's hurt, I'll put you in the morgue!" He pulled away as the Mach 5 retook the lead heading to the checkpoint.
The checkpoint where the rally racers would get liquids and record their mileage was straight ahead and Speed came to a screeching halt while race officials leaned in and took the mileage. Mom Racer approached with a bottle of sports drink for Speed.
"Here, Speed. You must be thirsty." She handed her son the bottle, which he took and downed.
He handed the empty bottle back and said forlornly, "Mom, the Alpha Team's got Trixie."
Mom patted her son's shoulder comfortingly. "I know, son. Pops is doing everything he can and we'll find her. You just finish the race."
"I will, Mom." Speed waved as he took off.
Back at the track, Pops was overseeing the crew in the pit stall and periodically glanced about as he was looking for someone. Spritle took note and asked his father, "Gee, Pops what gives?"
Pops looked at his youngest son. Spritle's precociousness would usually have him right in the know of everything going on, he would put in his two cents worth whether it was wanted or not so he made sure that he kept Spritle occupied while he contacted Inspector Detector to try to locate Trixie. But now, looking at the fear in his seven-year-old's worried face, he broke down.
"Spritle, we have a problem. Trixie's been kidnapped."
Spritle's eyes grew huge then narrowed as he cried, "Who did it, Pops? Who'd wanna hurt Trixie?"
"A very bad man who wants to win the race more than anything. And he'll stop at nothing to do it."
Spritle's hands balled into fists. "Well, what are we waiting for, Pops? Let's go find her 'cause Speedy can't, he's racing. C'mon Chim Chim." His chimp chattered and nodded but Pops laid a restraining hand on the youngster.
"Hold it now. We have to wait for Inspector Detector. He's gonna help us find Trixie," Pops said to the impatient boy as the tall imposing figure of the Interpol inspector came over.
Spritle ran over to the officer. "Inspector Detector a bad man has Trixie! We have to save her!"
Detector nodded at the boy and regarded Pops closely. "I came as soon as I could Mr. Racer. I have a dossier on Wiley, Fixer, and the Alpha Team." He proffered a manila envelope and skimmed through it, handing Pops a document. "It appears that Wiley has had underworld connections for a long time but he's trying to go legit with racing. But old habits die hard."
"So how do we find where he is?" Pops asked anxiously.
"Wiley likes to stay close to the team so chances are he's in his car somewhere on the track grounds and that's where he's got Trixie stashed."
"Well, what're we waiting for?" Spritle demanded. "Let's go, c'mon Chim Chim." He made to run off but Pops stopped him.
"Spritle, it's too dangerous for you. You stay here," Pops ordered as his youngest protested.
Detector agreed, "Yes, Spritle it's way too dangerous for you. We can't let you go, you could get hurt."
Spritle drew himself up and answered indignantly, "I can help find her since my big brother can't. I want to."
Pops was firm. "Spritle, I said no, and I mean NO!" He turned to leave with the inspector.
Spritle watched them leave and said to his monkey pal, "Well, Chim Chim, let's go. Pops saying no never stopped us before and Speedy would want us to help find Trixie. He really loves her." He scampered off with his chimp in tow.