OSPREY…SWOOOOSH
UO: Alright with Journeys finally updated I can get this story updated. Its later than I wanted. I wanted to celebrate the beginning of the real racing season. But school and other factors hurt that. Anyway Actor check.
Ichigo: Here, Andrew is parking our car.
Orihime: Tatsuki is grabbing lunch.
Chad: Present and accounted for.
UO: Wait…where's Uryuu?
Andrew: Sorry about the wait, some protesters were fighting in the alley. Found Uryuu he's fine (Shows disheveled Uryuu)
UO: What were they protesting
Andrew: Ichihime vs. Grimmhime.
UO: WHAT? SHIPPING WARS HERE! Hold on! (Runs out. There is lots of screaming and beasts roaring scaring the actors UO comes back a little tired but smiling)
UO: That takes care of that. Before we start I would like say this. We here at United Osprey productions do not take sides in shipping wars except we do not like villain hero pairings which is why I was brutal on the Grimmhime supporters. On the contrary, we find the competing sides completely doable. We have our preferences though, but to bash someone because of the shipping idea is wrong. In future stories I might bash a character for a chapter or two until they get off their high horse. However a couple of characters for the sake of plot I will bash them. I can tolerate a pairing as long as though don't go out of the way to make your despised pairing a villain or a weak character. For example in this story it is Ichihime while some people would want me to do Ichiruki. In my first Journeys story, even though I support pokéshipping (Ash and Misty. I am old school) I use Ability (Ash and Anabel), Advance (Ash and May) and one other pairing which will become clear soon enough in a small harem situation. In 2nd Magnolia, I am using the common pairings like Nalu, Gruvia and Gale but I have a future story in my journeys series that will get Natsu some more ladies. Rest assured Nalu will be the main pairing in that one along with my other characters getting involved. My point is I am neutral in any shipping war and in two fandoms, Naruto and Fairy Tail, it is getting ridiculous. Sorry for my rant. Hope it doesn't turn you away. Anyway disclaimer please
Andrew: UnitedOsprey1991 doesn't own Bleach, the tracks, the theoretical future drivers and the mentioned series. He only owns Andrew, Maria, Raoul and Rebecca though the jury is out on Rebecca
UO: Thank you buddy on with the show. Also Challenge information at the bottom
Italics and quotations": Radio and track announcer
'Italics and apostrophe': Thoughts
Bold: Yelling
Bold and Italics: Yelling in head:
Name followed by a colon: In-race TV Announcer
Drama in Laguna Seca
April 13th(Japan) April 12th (North America) on the Kurosaki jet
When we last left our drivers, the boys were sick with the flu and Orihime and Tatsuki helped take care of them. After they got better, Andrew took Ichigo, Orihime and Tatsuki to the Tokyo Game Expo where with a couple of his online friends became the first people to public test a virtual reality game console. On their way home they ran into the yakuza which threatened to kidnap them. But with some good Samaritans though not only beat them but thanks to social media they were seen as heroes. They started suspected something sinister but with no proof they could only speculate.
Now they had just left the Japanese home islands heading for their next race in California. It was the first of a three race swing in the United States. Considering the huge time difference they had left in the early evening in Japan. So the drivers were sitting at the meeting table waiting for the meeting to start. Also in the room were the crew members as they had to strategize how to move the cars and the drivers.
"Okay, I will make this quick. Only two things of important note. The first is the movement of our cars. Because of where all the tracks are the best way to move is to allow the driver to take their own cars and travel to the tracks. We will be at Laguna Seca, Road America in Wisconsin and Indianapolis. We feel that moving all the equipment in between places in one country is too money intrusive. So we are going to land at one of the airports unload the cars and the trucks and travel to all of the tracks by car.
The crew grumbled, but nodded. They understood that this was the hard part of working on a team like this. The long traveling and the moving of equipment was take a toll on anyone.
Isshin "Now last bit of business is the track. Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca. It's among the smallest tracks we are going to run on at slightly larger than 2 miles. The track begins with a long straight broken up by a slight left hand kink. The first major challenge is the Andretti curve a hairpin at turn 2. Then a fast section into turns 3 and 4. Turn five can be taken at a middle gear and that sets up into turn six which most people brake slightly. Now the part that its famous for. You start slowing down with a slight right hander then it's a downhill left to right blind turn. Take it well and turn 9 can be taken at full speed. Turn 10 is a slight slow area and the final turn is a right angle turn that needs to be taken at least in second gear. Andrew do you have anything to add you are familiar with it right.
Andrew sat up. "Only by reputation. The A division doesn't run it. The Sports Car championship division does. But from what I gathered this is the equivalent of a short track when it comes to road courses. Its tight its fast and there is a lot of run off in many areas. That stuff gets into your tires engines and you could be in for a long day. I see a lot of bumping banging at this track." Andrew said yawning. "Last thing it has and elevation change which is the reason why the corkscrew is tough as it's a downhill turn. Suspension is going to be an issue with the rocks and the constant changing. Not many tracks have that much change. Probably one reason the sports cars love it.
Isshin nodded. "Thank you. Now then try to get some sleep it's a seventeen hour time difference California to Japan, so get as much sleep as you can. We left a day earlier than needed to get used to it. So see you when we land."
With that the group broke up and went to their bunks.
Andrew went to his bunk and started getting ready to fall asleep. A knock on the door turned his attention. He opened the door to see Tatsuki.
"Hey what's up?" Andrew asked though the sleepiness in his tone was evident.
Tatsuki looked up at him. "Just wanted to say have a nice rest." Tatsuki a little hesitantly.
Andrew smiled. "Thanks." Andrew turned around but then had a thought. "Hey…if you want nap with me my door is open alright." In the past couple of days the two couples were getting closer, but they weren't dating couples yet. Tatsuki blushed. "I…will consider it alright." She said. Andrew chuckled. "Don't be shy. Anyway good night…or rather good morning." Andrew said walking away from the door. Tatsuki shook her head. She starting walking towards her and Orihime's room when she caught a glimpse of red hair in Ichigo's room. She peered and had to smile. Orihime was snuggled into Ichigo's embrace Ichigo in a wife beater shirt and Orihime in her sleeping dress. She had to admit they were cute together. She sighed and turned around. Tatsuki knocked again and heard her name to enter. She entered and saw Andrew in his sleeping wear a pair of sleeping shorts and t-shirt
"Is that offer still on the table?" Tatsuki asked.
Andrew smiled and nodded. Tatsuki left temporarily and then reentered wearing a black tank top and a pair of boy shorts showing her flat stomach and toned legs.. Andrew chuckled. "Tomboy to the end, huh?" Tatsuki blushed. Andrew patted the bed next to him. Tatsuki walked and sat down. She uncharacteristically squeaked his arm went around her and pulled her closer. "Sorry. I should have asked." He said apologetically. Tatsuki said nothing but snuggled a little closer.
"Much better than a pillow." Tatsuki mumbled. Andrew blushed but smiled as he rubbed her hair. He looked out the window. Without the clouds and the lights off they could see the night sky but was limited by the slightly larger the normal window.
"Hey Tatsuki?" Said girl looked up. "Don't change who you are. It's what makes you, you." Andrew said as he closed his eyes. Tatsuki looked at him and then snuggled into his chest with a contemplative look. 'Do you like me Andrew…no the question is…do I? You are a confusing person Andrew Michaels.' She thought closing her eyes. 'But I like the challenge…when I do figure you out…I hope you will welcome me in.' Tatsuki said falling asleep.
Hours later they were over the North American continent. Because of when they left around five pm Japan time they were approaching their destination in the morning. Orihime moaned cutely as she woke up. Rubbing her eyes, she looked around the darkened room. The window shade was down so gently removing Ichigo's arm she opened up the shade. The sun at least from their perspective was coming up, in reality the plane had entered a time zone where the sun was just coming up. She looked down through the limited viewpoint and forests that doted the Canadian landscape. Quietly getting out of the bed, she went to hers and Tatsuki's room and grabbed one of the cameras. She quietly got back onto the bed and started taking pictures, capturing the mountains and the landscape illuminated by the rising sun. Feeling the bed shift she smiled when Ichigo sat up next to her.
"Morning." Ichigo said groggily. Orihime giggled. "Hey Mr. Grumpy pants." Ichigo scowled but quickly returned to smiling. "What are you doing up?" He asked.
Orihime smiled. "Just taking pictures of the landscape. America is so pretty outside of the cities. It's amazing that so much has recovered in the last few years.
Ichigo nodded. The U.S and Canada thanks to new policies started cleaning up and reclaiming the landscape. Though the cities had gotten larger they gotten smarter in development. The change in transportation also began healing the rivers and lakes. Manufacturers either used solar, hydrogen or compost burning resulting in a significant drop in pollution. But possibly the biggest change was the crackdown on invasive species. All packages were thoroughly screened and if they contained non-native species they were destroyed on site. The Everglades once a python infested swamp with fears of overrunning Florida were saved through the combination of extermination and protection.
But the damage was done. Since the turn of the century, more than 60% species that were alive at the beginning of the century were gone or critically endangered due to climate change and other factors such as war. Perhaps one of the things that spurned the focus on environmentalism was the decimation of the Tuna fish around the time Ichigo and Andrew were younger.. All of the species were killed in the wild or at unsustainable levels. This was one of the things that made Ichigo change his attitude from cocky rich boy to a sympathetic young man. He convinced his father to not only help the fishermen but to start helping this movement. Racing For The Planet was the charity he and his father helped start. It sponsors events to help plant trees, establish fisheries and clean up Japan from its past.. He knew that it was hard but he was a young man who knew his goals. And it was all thanks to the young man next door to his. "Ichigo…what are you thinking about?" Orihime asked tilting her head. Ichigo smiled at her gesture, it was cute on her. "I was just thinking what my charity has done. We have an event planned when we get back to Japan which I hope everyone here helps out." Ichigo said explaining his charity and the event.
Orihime beamed. "So cool. To help with the fishery to release them into the wild.
Ichigo smiled. "Yeah…from what I gathered a couple more generations of fish they might be ready to fish Tuna under strict guidelines."
Orihime smiled. "You're a good person Ichigo-kun." Ichigo sighed.
"I…wasn't always. I was cocky…I was brash…and believed those with money could win everything. Andrew changed that." He said turning around. Orihime grabbed his arm. "It doesn't matter who you were…it who you are now. And I see a man that may look scary but has a heart of gold." Orihime said as her infectious smile caused Ichigo to smile. He looked outside. "We are going to land in an hour I think we need to get ready." Ichigo said standing up.
"Orihime?" Said girl looked up from the bed. "Thank you." Orihime smiled and blushed. As he walked out. Orihime sighed and wrapped the comforter around her sniffing it. "Ichigo's scent…smells like strawberries." Orihime giggled.
An hour later they had landed and were unloading the planes. Well more like a comedy of errors. (This is now April 13th North America time)
"Baldy let's go this truck is not going to unload itself." Hiyori growled as they unloaded one of the trailers from support plane. Without the trucks which they were renting it was a tight but manageable fit with the individual cars. It was Uryuu's and Andrew's car that were in there squeezed and tied down. The trailers had two teams in it each, one Ichigo and Andrew's primary and backup cars and the other Chad and Uryuu's. In addition they had to load all the equipment they needed for the next three races. Translation they had a lot of stuff to off load.
Shinji growled. "Back off Hiyori I am trying to get this trailer moving but your incessant whining is not helping you monkey brat. (Sarugaki if you are unfamiliar with Japanese and Bleach in general means monkey brat)
Hiyori growled and took one of the sandals she was wearing and starting hitting Shinji repeatedly.
Kensei and Love were watching this as they started hooking up the needed cables to move the trailer. The sighed. "How we stayed together with friends like this." Kensei said to Love who only shook his head. He looked around and had to groan. Mashiro was annoying Ryuken and Lisa was looking at one of her magazines.
"Mashiro stop bothering Ryuken-san. Lisa get your butt in gear and look at your erotic magazines later.
Mashiro whined calling Kensei a meanie. Lisa growled and placed her magazine down and proceeded to help move equipment.
The drivers were watching this with some amusement. "Ichigo just curious where did you find these guys I am surprised they can work together." Andrew asked.
Ichigo sighed. "They were the old Vizard Inc. drivers and crew. Dad knew some of them before when they were in the Grand Prix. This was before our race team formed in Asia's third tier." Ichigo said.
Orihime and Tatsuki were filming the unloading process and had just filmed them unloading the first trailer and getting interviews when Orihime's stomach growled. She giggled sheepishly. "Guess we haven't eaten in a while huh?"
Andrew check the time it was just past nine Pacific time. It was high time for breakfast and considering the chaos with the unloading, Yuzu wasn't able to make meals.
Isshin had walked over to them. "Why don't you go ahead guys. You are aware where we are going right?"
Andrew nodded. "Monterrey is our destination. If we let the girls take some shots we might be there around lunch."
Isshin nodded and with that the drivers and camera crew got into their cars and drove off clearing themselves with security having gone through customs on landing. A half an hour later they were in the city looking for a diner to eat at. Finding one in a nice area of the city they pulled off and went inside. They got a table for all six and with the exception of some cursory glances they were not bothered.
"Wonder why they didn't notice us?" Tatsuki asked.
"My theory is this isn't a racing mecca so they wouldn't recognize us right away." Uryuu said pushing up his glasses."
"That or it is a weekday and no one but truckers and those shopping would be here at this hour." Andrew said. "Welcome to real fuel stops of America's transportation, diners." Andrew said jokingly. "Good food at all hours of the day."
"Thanks sugar." Said a cheery voice. They saw a perky blond in a waitress uniform. "Sorry about that but you are right. (giggle) so what's your pleasure?" She asked. They ordered their drinks. Tatsuki, Chad and Ichigo got orange juice. Uryu got tea and Orihime and to the surprise of everyone Andrew got Chocolate milk. (Do not deny its good.) When asked about it Andrew just said. "It's the only breakfast drink." Which set off a debate about the drinks after they placed their orders. Which only made Andrew more of a target when he ordered chocolate chip pancakes. His dignity was restored when got his sides. He had a big appetite. When their orders came he couldn't resist returning the favor to Ichigo. "Oh look Ichigo it's a strawberry, Orihime do you want this?" He asked showing the strawberry off getting them to laugh and Ichigo to scowl. After eating and paying they started on their way out of the city.
"So Andrew what do you think we will expect?" Orihime asked curiously.
Andrew smiled. "There isn't a lot between here and our destination but the coast is supposed to be spectacular." He said as he turned up the radio.
(Californication by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the slow beat fits this drive nicely.)
As the music started to drift through the car, the front passengers of the mustang were talking with Tatsuki, while Orihime watched the ocean as they drove by. After an hour of silence from her Tatsuki shook her from her musings. "Hey Orihime what are you thinking about.
The red head smiled. "This view is spectacular…I wouldn't mind getting married here." Orihime said dreamily.
Tatsuki giggled. "Already planning your future huh Hime?" Orihime blushed, which got the girl to giggle. Tatsuki noticed a sign for an overlook.
(Instrumental from here until I say so)
"Hey Andrew, can we pull over?" Andrew turned to the mirror and nodded. Motioning Ichigo to call Uryuu they got into the scenic area. Orihime dragged Tatsuki down to the beach to take pictures.
Andrew sighed as he sat on the hood. "What's bugging you?" Uryuu asked.
Andrew looked at Uryuu. "Its Tatsuki. I don't know what it is about her. But I can't seem to get her out of my head." Andrew said.
Uryuu chuckled. "That sounds like you have a crush on the girl. You are already trust her with several things."
Andrew groaned. "This year was supposed to be simple. Win a couple of races, travel the world, and hang out with my buds. But now, god damn it I didn't think a girl could worm her way in."
Ichigo laughed. Andrew shot him a glare. "It's not that simple. I didn't have a social life or a girl in high school and now, I am wining and dining with CEO's and have to deal with a girl that I didn't know exist until two months ago. Its overwhelming for me. And don't you start. I know you have been giving Orihime those same looks. But can you blame yourself. Her innocence is an admirable trait. Can't count out her figure."
Ichigo growled. "Hey! She doesn't need people perving on her." Ichigo said getting into his face.
Andrew put his hands up. "First off get out of my face. Second your reaction proves my point." Ichigo sighed. "You're right. I like her."
Uryuu pushed up his glasses. "Like?"
Ichigo sighed. "Alright…maybe its love but I need to figure it out."
Andrew agreed. "We both do."
Uryuu chuckled. "Who knew two dense idiots could fall in love. What do you say Chad?"
Chad looked at the group. "Wonder what Isane is doing?"
Uryuu facefaulted to the pavement as the two he was making fun of started bursting out laughing.
"You know Uryuu if you want we can help you find a girl. Not our fault your personality is as dry as stone." Ichigo said.
Uryuu quickly recovered. "I can so get a girl. Just watch me." He yelled out.
Andrew saw the challenge. "Than do it and shut up about us not confessing to the girls. Though it's high time we took him on a formal date right Ichigo?"
Ichigo nodded. "Yeah let's wait till we get back to Japan we will be a little busy the next couple of days."
Andrew nodded and heard Orihime's excited voice get louder. "This stays between us guys right?"
The other three nodded. Orihime and Tatsuki walked up satisfied with their camera work. They also had a talk.
Flashback A few minutes.
Orihime was taking pictures enthusiastically. Tatsuki was watching with a small smile. Their shoes were off as they felt the warm sand.
"This place is so pretty. I can't imagine Japan like this." Orihime said bubbly.
Tatsuki chuckled. "Yeah California is definitely different.
Orihime put her camera down. "Tatsuki how do you tell a boy you like him…as more of a friend?"
Tatsuki sputtered but recovered. "I don't know you tell me. I don't have the experience either."
Orihime turned to her long-time friend. "You have someone in mind don't you Tatsuki-chan.
Tatsuki looked at Orihime and nodded. Orihime held up her hand. "Wait let me guess." Orihime said excitedly. Putting a figure on her chin she childishly started thinking. "Let's see, he has brown hair, he's gentleman, he's an American and he's autistic. Its Andrew isn't it?"
Tatsuki blushed but nodded. Orihime clapped her hands together. "You'd make a cute couple." Orihime said giddily.
Tatsuki smiled. "Like you and Ichigo?" At this it was a wonder Orihime wasn't sunburned. Orihime looked up at her friend. "Mou…is it that obvious?"
Tatsuki nodded and sighed. "We both know It's going to be difficult. Ichigo is a little dense and Andrew well he has trouble opening up." Orihime nodded. "But it will be worth it Tatsuki-chan. And then we can plan our weddings and our families." Orihime said as she got into a rant about the future as they climbed the stairs to meet with the boys."
Flashback end
"You girls have fun?" Ichigo asked.
Orihime nodded energetically. "Yeah the ocean is so beautiful here. Much clearer than Japan." Orihime said as they got back in the car unaware of the other's conversations.
(Turn up volume and switch to vocals of the last stanza then fade out)
An hour later they had reached their destination. The town was a slightly larger than average. The town though was welcoming the drivers and the Grand Prix with open arms. Considering they were an extra day ahead. They proceeded to the track which was over the hill from the town.
"There we are folks Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca." Andrew said as they got through security and drove to area where the trucks were set up.
Isshin saw them approach and in a fit of childishness he jumped towards his son.
"YOU'RE LATE!" Isshin yelled as they started "brawling." All the crew members sighed at the 'scuffle.' Andrew looked over at Shinji who walked over.
"Is anyone else here?" He asked.
Shinji nodded. "I saw the Ferrari team pull up as we were setting up. I walked around and saw the Audis unloading their cars. I think I heard Souske might be in tonight. Kuchiki will be flying in tomorrow as will the Red Bull and Ferrari teams. The American teams will probably be driving in some time tomorrow. Drivers will trickle in throughout the next couple of days.
Andrew nodded but then they heard a truck start to pull in. All of the Kurosaki crew turned to see the two trucks pull up to the gate. When they turned the crew saw the iconic blue oval and horse logo.
"The Rousch fords are here." Andrew said to Shinji who looked a little surprised. Andrew being the curious person got Ichigo to follow him and the camera girls ever on the job followed them.
The trucks came to a stop near the edge of the garage after coming down the access road. They were in the process of starting the unloading process when they walked up. First thing they noticed was a man with glasses and black hair wearing a standard reporter's uniform. This was Dr. Jason Punch. Like his father and grandfather, Dr. Jerry Punch he had a medical degree and used it well on the track helping save drivers from bad injuries. He turned to see the Kurosaki group walk up.
"Oh hello there. You're the drivers from the Kurosaki Enterprises. Andrew Michaels and Ichigo Kurosaki.
"Right on the money Doc. These are our camera crew, Ms. Orihime Inoue and Ms. Tatsuki Arisawa." Ichigo said.
"A pleasure ladies. I hope you've enjoyed the season." Just then a clanging sound was heard and then swearing was heard by a female voice.
"Well as you can see, we have our own chaos to deal with." A figure popped out from the trailer. It was a brown haired girl that if it weren't for the Midwestern U.S appearance of the girl could have been mistaken for Tatsuki. She was wearing blue jeans and a white blouse
"I can never figure out this truck." Patricia said. She looked. "Oh hello there, Ichigo Kurosaki and Andrew Michaels right. I guess we haven't been properly introduced. I'm Patricia Stenhouse."
"I remember you or at least your family. My grandpa watched the NASCAR series before it became the Grand Prix. Your grandma is Danica Patrick the first successful female driver in racing." Andrew said
Patricia giggled. "That's right. But I don't want to be in my Grandma's shadow. I want to be a champion in my own right.
"And you will Pat. Rousch is committed to winning this World Grand Prix this year. Though with the Japan teams this year it will be hard." Came a smooth country accent. Turning around they saw a blue eyed brown haired man in blue jeans and grey shirt.
"Michael, there you are. Is everything okay?"
Michael sighed. "There was some shifting around when we climbed up Donner pass we are checking for damage." Michael saw the Kurosaki drivers and introduced himself.
"If you mean I-80 you better think of something. If I know where the next track is we need to go back over those to get to Road America." Andrew said.
Michael looked at Andrew. "I think I know how to get home Andrew. But you bring up a good point. Anyway any reason you are here."
Ichigo frowned. "Just thought we say hello, we figured we were the only ones coming early.
Patricia had a thought of realization. "Oh yeah…the Japan teams have a large time difference between here and Japan. The Europe teams might have some issue as well.
Tatsuki broke into the conversation. "Yeah I figured the Audi coming from Germany has what a nine hour difference?
Andrew did some thinking. "You're exactly right. Germany and California are nine hours distant. Italy would be the same distance and the Red Bull team coming from Austria might be the same. Though they are going East to West. We came West to East so the jet lag would possibly be worse than ours. Though there are some crazy calculations beyond nine hours. (There isn't really but it's confusing). But those are just the teams. The drivers are coming from different countries possibly. So they could be all over the map.
Michael nodded. "That is true. Anyway we still have to do a lot of unpacking." At that there was another crash of tools.
"Damn rookies. See you guys. ALLEN WHAT THE HECK IS WRONG WITH YOU!" Michael walked over and yelled at the rookie driver.
Patricia shook her head. "Don't let his attitude get ya. He's a nice guy." She said.
"Like Ichigo here." Andrew said which got him into a head lock.
"Damn you bastard come here." Ichigo yelled trying to strangle Andrew. This got the girls to laugh. After a few minutes they calmed down they wished Patricia luck and went back to their garage.
Hours later while the drivers who traveled went to bed early, the Souske trailers came into the track. They began to unload the trucks as Aizen called a brief meeting of his drivers.
"Listen. It is race six and we not only have no wins but we have had the win taken away from us twice.
"Tch…like that matters in the long run." Grimmjow growled.
Aizen turned his glare to the blue haired man. "I would not be talking Grimmjow. You are in 29th place. At the very least Tier and Ulquiorra are around the top 5. As I understand it you have wrecked or done poorly in these races."
Grimmjow snorted. "Not my problem. I just haven't had good cars this year."
"The engines are fine. Syzael makes sure our engines are the best on the circuit. You have run out of fuel and then blew up in back to back races. You have been a non-factor in all of these races." Ulquiorra
Grimmjow growled. "No one can be as perfect as you pale boy. But where have you been. You have faded like a damn shadow at the end of these races."
Ulquiorra said nothing. Aizen got everyone's attention again. "My point is we need to show the world that last years was a fluke. Don't disappoint me." Aizen said walking into the trailer. The group dispersed remembering Sosuke's wraith was legendary.
Next day Sunset
After a day of tinkering with the cars, the Kurosaki drivers decided to head into town for a while. The town of Monterrey was small but the drivers especially Andrew were used to the size of it. They drove up to a local bar and recognized a couple of the cars that were parked.
"Huh, looks like Hendrick is already here. I think that's Serenity's and Dale's cars." Ichigo pointed out. The girls tagged along in an attempt to show an interaction between drivers off the track and away from their home. When they went inside it was already starting to fill up with fans.
"Andrew, Ichigo over here." Serenity yelled out at over the crowd noise. They made their way through the crowd and a server got them another table. After greetings and ordering drinks they sat and started to catch up.
"So what have you been up to guys it's been what 10 days since we saw each other." Ichigo asked.
Serenity sighed. "I have been traveling going around doing appearances. As the current champion I have to set a good example for our sport. But it is exhausting." She said taking a swig of her beer.
"It was just as bad for me. Serenity asked to occupy her on this trip. I didn't mind but god damn it's a long trip." Robert said groaning getting the group to chuckle.
Dale turned to regard their friends. "So what happened last week for you guys?"
Andrew drank some of his soda. "Well we had a shorter time because of traveling here. But it was no less eventful. We all" motioning the males "got sick with some sort of bug. And I am betting it was someone we were around. Want to confess something?" Andrew said making a pointed look.
Ralph rubbed his neck. "I guess this is a bad time to tell ya one of my crew members got sick the day before qualifying at Japan and I guess the virus passed to you guys because I hung out with you more? Don't shoot the messenger I was sick last week as well." Ralph said laughing sheepishly.
Andrew looked at Dale. "Do you mind?"
"Gladly." Dale smacked Ralph upside the head.
"Wish you could have told us that. I do not do well sick. Ugh I was throwing up a lot." Andrew said exasperatedly rubbing his eyes. Tatsuki who was sitting next to him patted his back. "One good thing is we got these two as nurses." Andrew said pointing his thumb at Tatsuki and Orihime.
"Well that was nice of you two." Serenity said smiling. The two girls giggled. "It was nothing. They are just big teddy bears made it easy for use to take care of them." Orihime said innocently. The two males groaned at the jab at their manhood getting the others to laugh. Robert recovered. "I wouldn't mind girls like Tatsuki and Orihime taking care of us." This got Serenity to huff.
"It was just those two we had Dr. Unohana and her assistant Isane help us. Uncle Isshin was busy and Karin and Yuzu had school."
"And you still bring them along to races?" Ralph asked.
Ichigo shrugged. "They are big girls. Besides they do great in school so why should we keep them out."
The Americans conceded the point. Then Robert brought something up. "So you guys hear about this Nerve Gear. I was online with Call of Duty and I overheard some people talking about how this device could transport your mind into the game and interact with the game itself. Hard to believe." Robert chuckled.
Andrew and Ichigo looked at each other and smiled deviously. "What's with the looks? I know you know something." Serenity asked curiously.
Andrew looked at them. "What if we could say that it not only is real but we have experienced it." This stunned the group into silence. The Japan group just took a long sip of their drinks as they contemplated this.
Robert again recovered first. "Are you saying…this Nerve gear thing…is real?"
Ichigo smiled. "It is real. It debuted at the Tokyo Game Show last week. I am surprised you haven't seen the news it was front page the last couple of days."
Andrew continued. "We got tickets to the show and the creator asked me and a couple of my friends online came out to the show. We were strapped in…and it was an experience like you wouldn't believe. We were in an RPG like Guild Quest that will be designed for the system and we took real hits. We also tried out a racing game that felt like we were actually at Laguna Seca. Look it up on YouTube. (Don't own) That whole presentation should be up online."
Dale whistled. "Wow…the first drivers to go into cyberspace that definitely beats anything we have done. You know if you could feel everything with those visors, would it be possible to make them portable training tracks?"
At this the two who went into the games looked at each other with surprised looks. "You...are absolutely right. What is preventing drivers from getting practice with these?" Andrew said leaning back.
"Maybe morality. What would it take for people to hack the system and trap the players?" Ralph said seriously.
"Well the only way that could happen according to the developer is for them be an insider to the project. So I am sure it will be fine." Ichigo said confidently.
After that conversation the talking settled as they ate dinner. There were comical arguments from the Kurosaki cousins and Ralph and Dale. They eventually decided enough was enough and it was getting late. Paying for their meals they made their way out of the bar and back to the trailers.
Next Day
The next day the drivers had finished practice and had drawn lots for the qualifying. The first group had gone out with little incident with Bjorn Kristensen taking the top spot. He was the only one of the opening group that did not end up getting into the dirt.
The first Kurosaki driver would be Uryuu but he wouldn't be going until the third group. Chad and Ichigo were in the fourth group while Andrew was in the last group. They were walking towards their cars when they heard a car screech and collide with the wall. They ran to the edge of the separation of the pits from the track and saw smoke coming from the top of the track.
"Damn. Another victim to the Corkscrew. Who was in this group." Andrew asked.
Uryuu adjusted his glasses, "I believe it was Tier, Stewart, Schumacher, Stenhouse, Kennseth and I think I saw Webber out there.
"Well we will figure it out shortly." Ichigo said. They saw all the cars on track drive by them and they determined it was Archie wrecking. They saw the wrecker carrying a wrecked number 14. They all were hoping Archie was okay.
"What exactly is the Corkscrew anyway?" Tatsuki asked.
Andrew sighed. "The Corkscrew is a combination turn. As you can see this track is built into a hill. So you would need to go downhill at some point. That section is where it starts doing that. The turn because of how its set up it is essentially a blind s-curve you don't even see turn 8A coming into the turn. It's also one of the few parts with a wall that you can feasibly hit. Judging by the hit he locked the brakes badly it is one of the few areas that need to be taken below third gear so it looks like a brake failure."
Tatsuki nodded and they went back to the garage area. More time passed, Uryuu had a tight racecar and he had a really bad time near the bottom of the charts. Ichigo and Chad went out next with similar results with and eleventh and twelfth place time provisionally. The fifth group was delayed because Kira got caught in the run off and wrecked the suspension. But that group was headlined by Brian Mcnish and Tier Harribel dueling for the top time with Mcnish beating her out. Tier though was fine with her time she was in third place. When the last group went out Andrew despite knowing how this track operated struggled because he was loose. He ended up 18th on the charts which was not good in his eyes at a track he wanted to do well at.
Heading back to the trailer after dropping his car off at the garage, Andrew and Ichigo saw Robert's crew looking frustrated. Walking over they saw Robert looking dismayed.
"What's up, Robert?" Andrew asked curiously.
Robert looked at them. "Our engineers discovered an issue with the engine and we have to switch engines."
Ichigo frowned. "Well that stinks with the engine."
Andrew turned to Ichigo. "It's not the engine. Grand Prix rules state that if you have to change cars or an engine after qualifying then you have to give up your qualifying spot and drop to the rear at the start of the race. On a track like this positioning is key and having to drop to the rear especially at the start is bad."
Robert nodded and the two Kurosaki drivers left to head back to their trailer.
Qualifying: Laguna Seca
Brian Mcnish
Bjorn Kristensen
Tier Harribel
Michael Kennseth
Gin Ichimaru
Ulquiorra Cifer
Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez
Dale Earnhardt IV
Shawn Newman
Michael Busch
Marcus Andretti
George Schumacher
Ichigo Kurosaki
Robert Johnson (Engine change dropped to the rear)
Chad Yasotora Alexandra Edwards
Patricia Stenhouse
Andrew Michaels
Rebecca Kirkland (Engine change dropped to the rear)
Soi Fong
Jason Vettal
Ralph Hamilton
Raoul Garcia
Ralph Dillon
Serenity Gordon
Uryuu Ishida
Renji Abarai
Maria Robertson
Allen Regan
Jason Webber
Jessica Rosburg
Francesca Alonso
Ikkaku Mandarame
Flippe Massa III
Kira Izuru (Wrecked forced to a back-up)
Archie Stewart (Wrecked forced to a back-up)
Sunday April 17th Race day.
Andrew got up early again just before sunrise. Instead of practicing his martial arts he climbed to the top of the trailer they were using. It was a far cry from the plane they used but they had beds though they were essentially like the ones you would find on trains in their sleeper cars. For the drivers who were used to cramped conditions they were fine. Though they had to deal with their crew's shenanigans with the yelling. (Look up the Auto train and search the ones that are for solo travelers.) Andrew and Ichigo had bunked together though it was a little uncomfortable. When it came to clothes they had the fortunate luck in finding a Laundromat. Now they were good for another week. Andrew was watching the sunrise coming up over the hill. Like the rest of California, this place was bathed in sunlight and with the way the track was it was a great view of the valley.. Though it was close enough to coast for it to not be so hot. Pulling out his music player he was about to play a song when Tatsuki climbed up.
"Hey, what are you doing up?" She asked sitting down on the cool metal.
Andrew looked at the tomboy. "Nothing much, just enjoying the view." He said.
Tatsuki looked at him and nodded. "Race begins in five hours so hopefully we can enjoy the view. Do you mind?" Tatsuki pointed at the music player.
Andrew nodded and handed her one of the buds. For the next hour or so they watched the sunrise and listened to rock music and in their respective minds they were enjoying the other's company. Tatsuki then told him they had to get ready and thanked him for letting her enjoy it with him. Andrew watched her walk away with a slight sway as climbed down.
Andrew chuckled and stayed up for a few more minutes then started heading down. Scrolling through his songs he selected a new song and started playing.
(Preparation montage. Play Dani California by the Red Hot Chili Peppers don't own it.)
Andrew had finished his shower and was getting dressed in the shower room. Though not the ideal place to get ready he made do.
Ichigo was in their improvised kitchen area. Karin and Yuzu had grabbed breakfast for the lot and the crew was thankful once again for the meals. Ichigo ate kissed Yuzu on the head and headed towards his car.
Uryuu and Chad were finishing up their meals and prepared to head towards their cars. They waited for their crews to finish up their meals. Off to the sides the girls were eating their meals and video-taping their impromptu kitchen.
As the song reaches its first chorus, all of the crews were seen moving the cars. The Souske crews in particular looked especially arrogant today.
In the pole sitter's pit a brown haired man was talking with his crew chief. The British looking man was smiling and laughing. Turning towards his car he patted figuring it would be a great car today.
In the press boxes, the atmosphere was light. Figuring it to be the California air they went about their business in finishing up their pre-race checks.
Coming out of the driver's meeting the drivers went to sign autographs. Despite the small town the turnout was tremendous. Those that couldn't get into grandstands despite improvements in seating were allowed to by passes to sit on the hills overlooking the track. Estimation on figures were near 110,000 paid tickets. It goes to show that even a track out of the way like this drew fans for the World Grand Prix.
(End the song temporarily)
Fox Opening Montage: (Opens like a movie preview, Play Dani California instrumental until I say so.)
The following race is approved for all audiences by the World Grand Prix.
The world is shown rotating around. "Fifty years ago, before hydrogen became the fuel of choice, racing was divided by geography (F1 racing in Germany is shown), car (NASCAR racing at Daytona) and distance (Sports Car are shown at Le Mans)." A deep voice announcer sounded. When the World Grand Prix was formed, there were 16 races, one in each of sixteen countries This race, Laguna Seca. (The track is shown with various racing series flashing by) was chosen over the tracks at Daytona and Indianapolis because something drew organizers to it. Maybe it was the Corkscrew (racing and passing at the Corkscrew is shown), Maybe it was the track was ready to hold cars the Grand Prix would produce. maybe it's the location. Regardless, in the fifty years that the Grand Prix has been run, only two years has this track in the valleys of North California not been a part of racing. (Scenes of the country side are shown) It has been raced on for so long that many of today's Grand Prix drivers had family who raced here in the Grand Prix. (Pictures of those with driving families are shown)
(Add the first verse) But this is the new generation. Rookies are ready to make their mark. Some already have. (Ichigo winning at Melbourne, Andrew winning at Korea are shown.) Others are chomping at the bit to win. (All the rookies are shown) Still they have to contend with the veterans, (Serenity and the others are shown) who want to show they are there for a reason
(Build up the bridge)
Now in the hills of North California, watch and be amazed. As 36 drivers contend at the track where history has been made for a century and the track shows its teeth." (The world zooms out and then back at California with the logo Welcome to Laguna Seca fading in as the Chorus is turned up with the words "CALIFORNIA REST IN PEACE." blaring out as the screen fades away showing the track in real time.
Fox opening music
As the camera pans across the track, the announcers begin their broadcast.
American Booth
Jeremy: Happy Sunday everyone across the world. I am Jeremy Buck with my colleague Nate Jarrett. Welcome to Round Six of the World Grand Prix, an old favorite, Laguna Seca. We begin with a recap of the Japan race.
(Begin recap of the race)
Nate: It seemed like from the get go the Souske Mazdas appeared to be the teams to beat. (Footage of Tier and Gin in front and passing other cars). But as the race wore on it was the Toyota of Renji Abarai giving them a run for their money.
Jeremy: On the last stop it was stop and go for fuel
Nate: We see right here Renji's teammate Ikkaku Mandarame coming in at the same time as the other three in front, but further up pit road going right by Tier's pit as she was coming out. It separated the Souske drivers and then it was easy pickings for the Kuchiki drivers who broke a long held drought for Japanese teams.
Jeremy: That is correct as we the points standing for the drivers, we see Renji and Ikkaku because of their finish move into the top ten in 8th and 9th respectively. Looking at the driver it is a decidedly Japanese feel, with only our defending champ Serenity, who is tied for first being the only American team driver and George Schumacher from Ferrari being the highest ranking European driver.
Nate: In the team standings, Kurosaki-Ishida still has a lead but it is shrunk a little with Souske now in 2nd place. Audi is dead last in the team standings. But they hope to turn around their fortunes and they have two drivers on the front run alongside the Souske 003 of Tier Harribel and our broadcast partner, Jermaine Ferguson is with our pole sitter Brian Mcnish. Jermaine?"
Jermaine: Thank you Nate. Mr. Mcnish you and your team have had a spell of bad luck this year. But today you and fellow teammate Bjorn Kristensen are on the front row. What does the 01 Audi have in store today.
Brian chuckled and spoke in a British accent. "This old girl is one of the best cars we have had in a while. But being in front just paints a target on you. And those Souske drivers look hungry for the win.
Jermaine: So you believe you have a car that can win.
Brian: I think so but we will see.
Jermaine: Very well. Brian rolls off first. Now let's head over to where Kiyone is with the blue haired panther. Ms. Kotestu?"
Kiyone: Thank you Jermaine sempai. Mr. Jaegerjaquez you qualified the worst of the four Souske drivers but all of them are in the Top 7. You feel like this car can win?"
Grimmjow laughed. "Oh yeah…this car and the whole team feels like they can pull off a sweep like those Kurosaki drivers did at Melbourne." He said a little snidely.
Kiyone: (Keeps her composure and laughs) You definitely have confidence to win today. Good luck.
Grimmjow: We don't need it lady." He said walking away.
Kiyone: (Shakes her head) Grimmjow starts 7th. Back to the booth.
After a couple more segments and the opening ceremonies the drivers were buckling in. Up with the Souske cars, Aizen was giving brief snippets to his team. He walked up to Grimmjow not even looking at his cockpit.
"When you wreck someone…make sure you're not caught." Aizen walking away.
Grimmjow grinned. Aizen was giving him the all clear to start wreck someone. On a course like this it was easy to wreck someone and make it look like they got loose.
Down the grid in 14th Ichigo was strapping in. Isshin kneeled next to his car. "Be careful…I don't like the look in the Souske drivers' eyes, especially Grimmjow. Just watch yourself." Isshin said as he walked away. Ichigo frowned as he put his helmet on.
Behind Ichigo, Andrew was talking with Kisuke. "Careful in the turns I know this is not your favorite type of track especially with the starts and restarts."
Andrew looked at him. "Guess your scouting told you that. Yeah never cared for short tracks though I won a few races on them.
Kisuke nodded but then added seriously, "Souske is chomping at the bit. I think they might target you.
Andrew nodded as Kisuke walked away. Seeing Tatsuki he gave her a reassuring smile. "We'll be fine Tatsuki." He said getting her to nod and walk away.
"Now for the most Famous Words in Motorsports. Drivers. START. YOUR. ENGINES!" The Grand Marshall said. Almost instantly thirty-six engines roared to life as the crowd cheered for the engines firing.
Japan Booth
Kommamura: With that enthusiastic cheer the sixth round of the World Grand Prix is underway. As the drivers start pulling away, because of the size of the track it will be NASCAR style meaning two by two for 18 rows.
Jushiro: Let's take a look at the race parameters for the California Wine 400. It is just over 2 miles we will attempt to run 190 laps. Fuel window is about 40-45 laps look for fuel strategy near the end.
Kommamura: Three things to keep an eye. First is the dust from the run off. It could make seeing difficult especially if many cars keep going off. That connect with the second part, cars will go into dirt they need to watch the suspension and the tires especially with the constant elevation changing.
Jushiro: The last part is the infamous Corkscrew turns 8 and 8A. There will be passing and there will be contact. This is the part that can make or break your lap and your race. Both Kira Izuru in the 03 and Archie Stewart in the 14 wrecked in the section in qualifying and were dropped to the rear. Two others Rebecca Kirkland in the 007 and Robert Johnson in the 48 also had to go to the rear because they changed engines. Almost all series have the rule if you change the engine you came into the weekend with you give up your spot on the grid.
American Booth
Jeremy: One more parade lap the pace lights are extinguished. What do you think is going to be important?
Nate: Other than the Corkscrew I say the Andretti Curve (Camera shows the tail end of the train exiting the turn.) It is really the only spot that you heavily brake. In the rest of the corners if your car is running well, letting off the accelerator would be enough. Reason being it's a long straight with a slight kink which allowed some teams to clock in at 200 mph in practice. It is also slightly downhill. Combine that with 36 cars I am worried for the cars from about 10th to maybe 25th. Those in the back might be able to get out of the way but it will be like an accordion.
Jeremy: Coming out of turn 10 and the pace car ducks onto to pit road. The cars coming out of turn eleven they cannot pass until the line. Mcnish bringing them down and the Green flag waves and the race is under way as they head down to the Andretti Curve.
On track the cars were picking up speed and then in the tight conditions they entered the hairpin turn. With that many cars close together and entering the same turn there were bound to be some damage to the cars. And there were plenty, two cars ended up nearly spinning out into the dirt and one car did which caused a bottle neck for the cars behind them along with some cars sustaining damage.
Japan booth
Kommamura: As they enter the Andretti Curve the cars bunch up. Two cars into the dirt and another car spins creating a log jam behind it.
Jushiro: Cars in the dirt looks like the Stewart-Haas Dodge of Marcus Andretti and the Rousch Ford of Alexandra Edwards, cars 051 and the 99 . Car turned around that is Red Bull Porsche of Jason Vettal in the 11 as the leaders head up the hill towards turn six.
On track the Souske cars got settled behind the Audis as they entered the Corkscrew. Coming out of the turn Grimmjow passed Gin and was closing in on Ulquiorra. Coming back to the front stretch, Dale was working on the fox man as they sped down the stretch. Now that they calmed down slightly the second turn wasn't as treacherous as the first time through as the Chevy got around the Mazda. Slightly further back Ichigo was working on Michael Busch for 10th while Chad was battling Marcus for 13th. Andrew was in 15th and was battling his new rival Soi Fong.
Going up the hill towards turn 6 Soi Fong ducked inside of Andrew attempting to cut him off. It succeeded and it got the young man riled up.
"You little Hornet . And here I thought we settled this in Korea. Kisuke this car, regardless of what she just did this car is starting off tight." Andrew said going into the Corkscrew
"Give it a couple of laps." Kisuke said.
"I also need a body work check. When I come down the stretch I need to know if anything is rubbing." Andrew said going into turn 10.
Kisuke and Yuzu acknowledged. Andrew drove by and they were able to get a good look at his car.
"I didn't see anything Andrew." Yuzu said
"Maybe a small dent on this side but I don't see it impacting you. We will fix at the first stop."
"Fine. But for now can I please wreck Soi Fong."
"No." Kisuke deadpanned.
Further back Uryuu having started in the rear missed the accordion on the first lap. Though he was struggling mightily. He was below 30th and was about 14 seconds of the pace. He couldn't even diagnose the issue right now and for the normally calm young man he was getting irritated.
"I know this car can do better. I can't find an issue with the car."
"We will see what we can do on the first stop. If you feel like there is a serious problem bring it down." Ryuken said.
Uryuu acknowledged as he was fighting Flippe for 31st.
Several laps passed under green. They got near where it was time for pit stops on Lap 40. Some cars were doing great like Grimmjow and the two leading Audis. Brian Mcnish still had the lead over his teammate but Grimmjow was just under a second behind them.
American Booth
Jeremy: As we approach Lap 40 pit stops are just around the bend. What do you expect the drivers to do.
Nate: If you are in the front try to change as little as possible the Souske cars especially. They control four of the top seven with the two Audis and the Kurosaki 15 comprising the other three. We will start to see cars—
Jeremy: Trouble on the track! One car way off course at the Andretti Curve and into the barriers. That looked like a nasty hit.
Nate: It looks like it was Jason Webber. He had spun out earlier and looking at the replay, it looks like something broke in the suspension going down the hill. It is a good thing that there is a large run off there because that was still a nasty hit. So glad he is out of the car okay.
Jeremy: Well now that changes things looks like everyone can come in without giving up their position and possibly a lap with the pace that the Audis are setting.
Nate: And here they come everyone is in, let's go to our international crew of pit reporters. First to Kiyone in Grimmjow's pit.
Kiyone: He is liking this car, just small air pressure change and he is down and away a fast stop for the 06. Harry.
Harry: Ichigo is complaining of a tight car they are going to up on the track bar. Four tires and he is down and away in the crowded pit. Jermaine
Jermaine: Our pole sitter has been great since the drop of the green flag. No change, a little slow on the rear and he is down and away and he will not be able to beat Grimmjow off pit road and it looks like he may not be able beat the 003 as well.
Japan Booth
Jushiro: And it looks like the Souske 006 and 03 got out ahead of the Mcnish Audi. The rest of the top five are Ulquiorra and Kurosaki.
Kommamura: As they come off pit road, many of the drivers were complaining of tight race cars which means the car's front does not want to turn right away. That could be an issue especially with these turns.
Two laps later the race was restarted and unlike the first time through this time there were no incidents. Though Grimmjow and Tier pulled away slightly and Ulquiorra had gotten around Mcnish. As they climbed through the gears Grimmjow pulled away and Tier was right behind him.
Over the next several laps Grimmjow widened his lead and started lapping some of the slower cars. On lap 82 he came in for chance to change tires which gave the lead to Tier who came in a lap later. The leaders cycled through with Ulquiorra and Ichigo both taking a turn at leading. Mcnish had gotten around Grimmjow proving at this point Mcnish was doing better at the beginning of the run. The race was still Mcnish and Grimmjow as the race passed half way and entered the triple digits. On lap 101 Grimmjow got around Mcnish in turn 5
Japan Booth
Kommamura: And with some deft maneuvering , Jaegerjaquez in the 06 takes the lead that Souske car is really strong today, Kiyone?"
Kiyone: (Cars in the background) Yes he just was heard on the radio and in his words he said something along the line this is my best freaking car I've had since Spa last year.
Back in the booth
Jushiro: And he won that race if I am not mistaken. As they come around to complete lap 103 and I see smoke someone is blowing up.
Kommamura: I see a three but it isn't black that is Kira the Kuchiki 03. Three cars share the same number it is hard to pick them out. Fortunately they are different colors. Caution is out for the fluids on the track.
Jushiro: This will be interesting, they are half way through a fuel run and regardless of what happens I don't think they can make it without two more stops. They would need to make to about 145 if they want to try to make it on one more stop.
Up and down pit road decisions were being made for pit strategy.
The front four cars did not come in but Ulquiorra the fifth place car convinced his crew chief Tesla to come in. When asked he replied, "Two different strategies equal two different ways to win." Aizen agreed. Other cars including the two Kurosaki cars of Ichigo and Andrew came in.
Isshin agreed, but Kisuke was more hesitant.
"Are you sure we should come in now?" Kisuke asked
"I might not be winning this race but at least put me in contention, besides I think there will be at least one more caution. I might be able to make it on one stop in that case."
Kisuke sighed and agreed. As the cars came around about twelve or thirteen cars came down. Most were on the lead lap but they figured they could make it on one more stop from here. After every one that pitted finished, Ulquiorra came out first in about 15th place. After another lap they were back racing with Grimmjow still in front. As they went through the turn, Ulquiorra got shifted to the outside of the turn and lost a few spots. Falling behind several cars he got back into control and found himself in 19th. He growled.
"All of these drivers are bleeping trash. God damn it." Ulquiorra said as he climbed the hill into turn 6.
"Calm yourself Ulquiorra-sama. You will be okay." Tesla said. Ulquiorra growled as they continued to race.
About twenty laps later the cars that did not come in on the last caution starting coming in. This gave the lead to Bjorn for a lap then he pitted. Ichigo who was part of the group that did pit assumed the lead with Michael Busch in second and Soi Fong in third. A bit further back Andrew was in seventh behind Dale and Shawn Newman. He was struggling with his car and was about to be passed by Ulquiorra on lap 145.
"Damn I cannot turn this car." He caught Ulquiorra's car gaining ground on him as he climbed up the hill. After turn 6 his car pushed himself off the turn and Ulquiorra used the straight to get around. Just after he did so, Ulquiorra got off the track and lost control of his car. In his attempt to pass the next car in front of him he crashed into the car in front of him Shawn and they collided with Dale sending them all into the barrier at the corkscrew. Dale's car got slightly air borne and Ulquiorra and Shawn slammed hard into the barrier almost tearing it up.
American booth
Jeremy: The cars at the front of the field are coming in in the next couple of laps, they-
Nate: Trouble! Big wreck! Oh boy…three cars into the barrier at the corkscrew. One car into the air heavy damage to all three cars
Jeremy: Let's see. Looks like Ulquiorra, Earnhardt and Newman. That's a shame Ulquiorra was having a great day he tried a different strategy and back fired. And look at that all three nets are down. Wow I am amazed they are all okay. Let's look at the tape.
Nate: Looks like Ulquiorra gets around Andrew and it looks like he went into the turn too hard and the unfortunate victims were the 39 and 88.
On track Andrew was stunned. "Damn…I knew Souske was nuts but that could have been bad." He took a shaky breath.
"Andrew…ANDREW!" Kisuke's voice sounded snapping him out of his stupor. "What?" Andrew asked calmly.
"What the heck Happened?" Kisuke asked concerned.
Andrew sighed. "Ulquiorra got around me, he got too eager and wrecked 88 and 39. What are we going to do on our pit stop." He said changing the subject.
"Relax…its fine your still running." Kisuke said. Andrew breathed again. "Thanks. So seriously what are we going to do?"
The drivers who were in front now had to come in again as the wreckage was cleaned up. It would take more than a couple of laps to clean it up. The lead was given back to Mcnish who was close to locking up the most points.
Grimmjow from second place radioed the pits. "How is that pale bastard?" He asked.
His crew chief Syzael chuckled. "Is that concern in your voice? Regardless, he is fine but presumably shaken up. But I guess Souske earns its reputation for wrecking people today. Aizen says win this race."
"Right." Grimmjow said. A few laps later they went back to green and it was obvious that while Mcnish was capable of going well after the drop of the flag, Grimmjow became the class of the field as the laps were winding down. Even after the final pit stops and yellow, Grimmjow tore through the field and his remaining Souske teammates were not far off though separated by the Audis. On the final lap the only thing that Grimmjow had to contend with was the lap traffic but that negligible at best.
Japan Booth
Kommamura: Final turns for the Panther he has been the dominant car all day. Final turn and Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez will the California Wines 400.
On track Grimmjow pumped his fist ecstatic at the win and proceeded to do his burn out. Rolling into victory lane he cheered and laughed arrogantly as his crew celebrated
Jermaine pulled him aside. "So Grimmjow what is it like to have your first win this year.
Grimmjow (Laughs again) It feels great now we could put some effort into winning the title.
Jermaine: You feel like this is a message.
Grimmjow: Oh yeah, the Souske team is not to be trifled with at all.
With that Laguna Seca comes to a close. What will happen with our heroes after essentially being a non-factor in this race? Find out on Bleach Grand Prix.
Finish Order: Laguna Seca
1. Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, Souske37 points
2. Brian Mcnish, Audi, 39 points
3. Bjorn Kristensen, Audi, 36 points
4. Tier Harribel, Souske, 34 points
5. Ichigo Kurosaki, Kurosaki, 33 points
6. Gin Ichimaru, Souske, 31 points
7. Rebecca Kirkland, Audi, 30 points
8. Maria Robertson, Ferrari 29 points
9. Ralph Hamilton, Red Bull, 28 points
10. George Schumacher, Ferrari 27 points
11. Andrew Michaels, Kurosaki 26 points
12. Michael Kennseth, Rousch,25 points
13. Chad Yasotora, Kurosaki, 24 points
14. Flippe Massa III, Red Bull, 23 points
15. Soi Fong, Kuchiki, 22 points
16. Ralph Dillon, Hendrick, 21 points
17. Michael Busch, Stewart-Haas, 20 points
18. Uryuu Ishida, Kurosaki, 19 points
19. Allen Regan, Roush, 18 points
20. Serenity Gordon, Hendrick, 17 points
21. Robert Johnson, Hendrick, 16 points
22. Marcus Andretti, Stewart-Haas, 15 points 1 laps down
23. Alexandra Edwards, Rousch, 14 points 1 lap down
24. Jason Vettal, Red Bull 13 points 1 lap down
25. Jessica Rosburg, Ferrari, 12 points 1 lap down
26. Archie Stewart, Stewart-Haas, 11 points1 lap down
27. Renji Abarai, Kuchiki, 10 point 2 laps down
28. Raoul Garcia, 9 points 2 laps down
29. Ikkaku Madarame, Kuchiki, 8 points, 2 laps down
30. Patricia Stenhouse, Rousch, 7 points, 2 laps down
31. Francesca Alonso, Ferrari, 6 points Out
32. Shawn Newman, Stewart-Haas, 5 points Out
33. Ulquiorra Cifer, Souske, 4 points Out
34. Dale Earnhardt IV, Hendrick, 3 points Out
35. Kira Izuru, Kuchiki, 2 points out
36. Jason Webber, Red Bull, 1 point Out
Drivers names Team Points
Andrew Michaels Kurosaki 172
Ichigo Kurosaki Kurosaki 170
Serenity Gordon Hendrick 163
Tier Harribel Souske 156
George Schumacher Ferrari152
Brian Mcnish Audi 141
Ralph Hamilton Red Bull 139
Ulquiorra Cifer Souske 137
Uryuu Ishida Kurosaki 134
Soi Fong Kuchiki 123
Gin Ichimaru Souske 123
Renji Abarai Kuchiki 122
Ikkaku Mandarame Kuchiki 121
Flippe Massa III Red Bull 121
Michael Kennseth Rousch 116
Maria Robertson Ferrari 115
Alexandra Edwards Rousch 111
Jason Vettal Red Bull 109
Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez Souske 104
Chad Yasotora Kurosaki 102
Archie Stewart Stewart-Haas 98
Marcus Andretti Stewart-Haas 98
Rebecca Kirkland Audi 96
Robert Johnson Hendrick 94
Francesca Alonso Ferrari 91
Michael Busch Stewart-Haas 86
Ralph Dillon Hendrick 86
Shawn Newman Stewart-Haas 81
Patricia Stenhouse Rousch 80
Kira Izuru Kuchiki 80
Bjorn Kristensen Audi 80
Dale Earnhardt IV Hendrick 75
Jason Webber Red Bull 74
Raoul Garcia Audi 70
Allen Regan Rousch 68
Jessica Rosburg Ferrari 56
Team Names Combined Team points
Kurosaki-Ishida 578
Souske 520
Kuchiki 446
Red Bull 443
Hendrick 418
Ferrari 414
Audi 387
Rousch 375
Stewart-Haas 363
End of Chapter
A/N: FINALLY This bleeping chapter would not be written. Motivation, school and distractions kept me from posting this when I wanted to. Also I kind of lost a little motivation, its hard to not focus on the Kurosaki team but I want to at least gove the teams some spotlight before this story ends. And as you could tell by the end I lost motivation to write what I wanted. Anyway
Preview: On the way to the next race, Ichigo, Andrew and the girls get caught in one of America's deadliest phenomenon bringing up fears for one of them. Then at a track that changes on a dime, a sinister force is wrecking the cars and the weather is not helping matters. Who will survive? Find out.
Next Time: Storms on Road America.
Next up is Journeys. Please review that and all my stories. Also check out my buddies Spartan719, Kage Bijuu, Code-Emperor07, Vanishing Raptor and new friend Soulsilverlord. They got good stories as well.
One last note I have a challenge for those interested in High School DxD
Challenge # 3: High School DXD Religious crisis
So I started reading High School DXD fics and with all of their religious overtones I am surprised everyone is so accepting of being devils and their family members becoming them.
But what if the person had legitimate issues with this or even their families.
This forms the basis of my this challenge. I call it the Religious Crisis challenge.
Outline
I have two possible routes
Conservative route rules: (That means he can quote the bible wants to spread god's words. Think devout Catholics and Evangalicals here in the U.S)
1. When your character is turned he is resentful to Rias and openly defies her until he convinces himself that he can't reverse it. He doesn't trust Rias and devils completely until at least the Riser fight and even then he is still hesitant to trust them outside of the peerage.
2. His family would shun him and not care about him with the exception of a couple of people. This will him to turn to Rias and her peerage four guidance.
2a. Friends could go into the above category.
3. When the family finds out god is dead, they have a crisis of faith. Try to bring one of the big name angels to help soothe their worries. After this they begin to repair their relationship.
Liberal route rules: (This means they don't actively pursue religion but they are aware off it and are alright with some things and not okay with others.
1. When turned into a devil, he is hesitant to accept help from devils but was taught actions speak louder and is willing to give them a chance. He is more trusting on this route.
2. Family because of his upbringing accepts his new status. But there is one person who is devoutly religious and close to the OC will hurt them emotionally when they find out.
2A. I personally like the idea of a girl OC who was a good friend and crush of the OC in this role
3. When they find out god is dead, the person who shunned the character has a crisis of faith. To help restore her faith, your character should bring in Michael. This helps restore both their faith and their relationship.
Both routes
Regardless of which route you choose the following should happen.
1. Despite being a devil, the faith in god is so strong that he can resist holy attacks and artifacts and the pain that came with believing in god. As much as I like the dragon taking over Issei's arm I don't want that.
2. During the battle with the Azaeral , the character close to the OC must be with earshot of the proclamation that god is dead.
3. Peerages stay the same. Issei can be in it or not.
4. Asia, that is going to be a source of character building. Finding someone willing to be faithful god despite being a devil is a character development for both. When she is taken by Freed, liberal characters attack Rias' character for not saving her. Conservatives will find this as a crisis of faith and help develop number one in this section.
Parings
Okay I can go either single or harem pairings on this. Harem paring must have Asia, Rias and either Irnia or Xenovia.
Last bit of note. This is an open minded challenge, if I find that this story is a breeding ground for a religious debate or a religious sermon. I will disqualify your challenge. So if you want to take this challenge please keep in mind this fact. PM me to ask permission to take this and the route you are going.
I hope to take this challenge but I want to see what you all do.
Anyway thanks for reading and review kindly
OSPREY….SWOOOSH