OSPREY…SWOOOSH
UO: Alright its go time. Actor Check.
Ichigo: That was fast
Andrew: Yeah normally you would take a little longer
Tatsuki: Not that we're complaining some of us have really small parts in the manga right now.
UO: Whatever, Chad, Hime, Uryuu you here.
Orihime: Here Chad is finishing getting ready. Uryuu…well?
UO: He's with the quincies again?
Orihime: Uh…Yes?
UO: God really! Ichigo you move from that spot and you are not going to make it. (Ichigo freezes) Time for plan B. (Dials a number) I don't care if we have casualties send the team.
Orihime: Uh UO-san what did you send.
UO: I sent the Expendables.
A few minutes later the team steps forward.
Barney: Here's the scrawny guy. Where's our fee. (Throws Uryuu at UO)
UO: Talk to Makarov about that there is plenty for their normal repairs and paying you. Don't go crazy at that bar. By the way how many did you kill.
Chris: Oh don't worry about the bar. As for casualties you don't want to know. (The team leaves)
UO: That doesn't help my conscious. (Looks at Uryuu who is a smoking wreck) You done being the bad guy.
Uryuu groaned.
UO: Good
Ichigo: You know the guild hall is going to be wrecked again right?
UO: Better than my studio. DISCLAIMER PLEASE!
Ichigo: UnitedOsprey1991 does not own the tracks, Bleach, the theoretical future drivers and the car manufacturers. They belong to each respective owner. Only Raoul, Maria, Andrew and Rebecca are UO's creations.
UO: Thank you.
Normal: Dialogue
"Italics and quotations": Radio, track announcer, phone conversation
Underlined and Italics: Lyrics
'Italics and apostrophe': Thoughts
Bold: Yelling
Bold and Italics: Yelling in head:
Name followed by a colon: In-race TV Announcer
Chapter 18: Spanish Showdown
When we last left the Kurosaki drivers, the team just celebrated an important win when Chad of all drivers managed to win the fuel mileage game against Ulquiorra at one of the most prestigious events in the world, the Monaco Grand Prix. With five wins in eleven races, the Kurosaki-Ishida team is full of confidence.
After the celebration we find them in the hotel room of Ichigo, Andrew and their girlfriends finishing up the meeting albeit with a little more energy than Isshin would have liked.
"Alright guys settle down you can celebrate later. I want to go over the track details. This upcoming race will be in Barcelona. It's going to be a night race and because of the World Cup starting next week in Spain, it will highly celebratory so please be on your best behavior."
Isshin pulled up the track on the hologram projector
"This track is 2.8 miles long and it can be really fast. From the front stretch you go into Turns 1 and 2 which are a medium speed turn. Turn 3 is a flat turn that in certain cars is not even a turn. A short straight follows before turn 4 which is taken with an early entrance. Turn 5 is a slow left hander that drops into a downhill section. Turns 7 and 8 are a chicane which leads to a really fast blind turn 9. Careful of your suspensions here and you must set up properly or you are going into the turf. Turn 9 leads into a section where you pick up speed before turn 10 which is a left handed hairpin. This then sets up turns 11 and 12, a left kink and long right turn. Turns 13 is a tight right hander that could lead to some wreck as you need to quickly cross back over to take turns 14 and 15 which you need to take correctly otherwise your entry onto the front stretch will be affected. A very g-force heavy track so please be careful." Isshin said as he walked out. Uryuu and Chad shortly followed after saying good night.
Andrew sighed as Tatsuki leaned into him. He took a sip of his wine. "Five wins in eleven races. Man we are imprinting ourselves on this race.
Ichigo hummed in agreement. He started stroking Orihime's hair, said girl have a face that matched her hair, probably due to the alcohol. "I know we were supposed to be adjusting to the travels but it feels like we hit something special this year."
Tatsuki reached over to take her glass. "Yeah you guys are awesome and all but someone wants to destroy you and this team. Shouldn't you guys, I don't know be more worried?"
Andrew pursued his thoughts. "We know and that's why we are taking every advantage to relax. We don't have to be there until Friday, and it's a six hour drive. That's about New York to Richmond, we can easily make that in a day. So I think we can take our time take in some sights. We can do the same thing going up to Paris because we have to be in Britain next week. As far as I'm concerned, the four of us are tourists for the next couple of weeks or so."
Ichigo chuckled. "Relaxing in the middle of the season. I hadn't thought about it like that. I guess I don't mind a couple of days to calm ourselves."
The group settled into a comfortable silence that was broken a few minutes later by Tatsuki suggesting they watch a movie. Granted they would be watching it in French with the English subtitles but still better than nothing. Settling themselves in their sleeping attire because they were probably going to sleep where ever they were going to watch the movie.
The evidently found a movie all four could agree on and settled in. A couple of hours of non-stop action found Andrew being the one to turn off the movie and looking across the room. Ichigo was lying on the arm of the couch and Orihime was tucked into his body with his arms encircling her waist. Looking down to see Tatsuki on his shoulder he brushed her hair aside and settled into the realm of Morpheus.
Same time as the discussion
Isshin was walking towards his room when his cell phone rang.
"Isshin Kurosaki." He answered.
"It's Kisuke." The eccentric mechanic said.
"Ah Kisuke how's Barcelona?" Isshin said cheerfully.
"Oh you know the ladies are as hot as the weather. My kitty cat loves flaunting her assets on these beaches. (A/N: Just a heads up yes they do that in Europe. I know from experience, I've been to Barcelona in real life.)
Isshin laughed as he reached his and Ryuken's suite. "I bet. I would have love to see that." He closed the door and then turned serious. "So any news concerning our "friends?"
"Yes three things of important notice." The scientist turned serious as well which would be scary to those who don't know him.
"Let's hear it." Isshin said putting it on speaker so Ryuken can hear it.
"First item of note is we got the analysis of Andrew's car from Russia. We said that it looked like it was bitten off. We ran our scanners over the axel. We found metallic and organic traces near the driver side wheels. Sound familiar."
"Terror Bites. Kami damn it how the heck did Souske get that?"
"My money is they had several connections to the mercenaries that operate in that area of the world. That kind of supports the second part of our findings, our plant in the Souske camp managed to get a hold of his financial records. There were three recent wires. One was to the Joan's Devils mercenaries, dated 5-23 for the amount of $100,000.
"Coinciding with the casino attack." Ryuken theorized.
"Right. The second was a transfer of $3,500,000 to a group in the middle-east. Dated 4-24 and then another one dated 5-18. Probably means half at the time and half on delivery.'
"That probably means they got their hands on the Mechons before the Russia race." Isshin theorized.
"The last one you are not going to like. There are several transfers of money to one Miguel Williams, the late head of our North American Division."
Isshin widened his eyes. "That bastard was the last buyer. Damn it how are we going to trace it back to him?"
"I am still working on that unfortunately. Souske has always been a tricky one to pin down. Even when we suspected them of framing Vizard, Inc., no one could figure out how he did it."
Ryuken looked at the phone. "What I am curious is how they got the money to do all of this."
"Well I don't have the answer but I have where we can start. I have Souske's financial records dating back the last ten years. At first glance they look like they are sound. But I took a look at the last three years, the reported revenues and the actual revenues don't add up. I can only assume the other years are the same way. But if we try to decipher it here, Souske can find it and then accuse us of falsifying their records."
"Damn it. I want this guy brought down. Two years since Interpol approached us and Kuchiki to try and take down this group and we have the evidence to bring them down and we can't do anything about it."
"I may have an idea that could at least throw them off our trail. If I recall, you are now insured by one of the largest insurance companies in the world. I believe he has training in this type of job."
Isshin widened his eyes. "Are you saying we involve him?" Ryuken broke his normally cold façade to express his shock.
"I'm saying that he is not directly affiliated with us. If we can get this to him, then he can probably start laying a trail. I will talk to our contact with Interpol, the FBI and the Public Safety Commission to tell them the new developments. If we need to we can head to New York this week and be back to the race."
Isshin shook his head. "Just inform them of the developments. We are heading there in two weeks anyway. We can talk to him away from the kids.
"Do you think this will go over well?"
"Damn it Kisuke, even I know if Andrew and Ichigo find out this is going to get ugly, especially if Andrew finds out we involved someone close to him."
"Do you think they suspect anything?"
"Maybe. But let's worry about this later. We'll talk more in Barcelona." With that the phone call ended.
Isshin sighed. "Ichigo, Andrew forgive me for what must done." He said walking to his room.
With the entire Souske Team
Aizen was mad. No he was furious with his team. The team had the Monaco race in the bag but their cars betrayed them. Instead of trying to figure out what cause his team to lose, he was tearing into the team.
"What the heck am I going to do with you all? We had a chance to pull ahead of the Kurosaki brats and now they have a much larger lead and they are getting the press for a winning a race that should have been ours."
"I am sorry Aizen-sama I miscalculated how much fuel I had left. I could not believe what I did."
"You still lost and to Yasotora of all people are you kidding me. We've been concerned about Kurosaki and Michaels but Ishida and Yasotora also have wins. Five wins in eleven races. That hasn't been seen since Yamamoto and his team."
Grimmjow scoffed. "Yeah they've been lucky this season. I can easily have more wins than this."
Aizen turned to Grimmjow. "And where are those wins Grimmjow?" He said in a low voice. "Your lone win is at Laguna Seca. DNF's at Abu Dhabi, Road America, Indianapolis running out of fuel at Melbourne. And then there was that fiasco at Monaco where you sped on pit road. You're lucky that you are where you are in the standings.
Grimmjow scoffed again. "I lost my engines and I wrecked fighting for the win. What more could you want?"
"Perhaps some respect for Aizen. He gave you a job when no one would." Tier said.
Aizen turned to Tier. "I wouldn't be talking, you haven't really lived up to your calling as the shark. You have wreck just as much as Grimmjow and you do not have wins at all."
Tier looked him in the eye. "I've just had some bad cars and some bad luck."
"My cars are supposed to be the best in the world." Aizen said slamming the table. He growled. "We have a reputation as the best team in the world. But we also have a reputation as the most ruthless team in the world. At Barcelona we will show those Kurosaki upstarts what it means to cross us."
"What do you mean Aizen-sama?" Tier asked.
"I mean it's time to stop being subtle. We are going after both the Kuchiki team and the Kurosaki teams." Aizen said with his usual confidence.
"You mean actually wrecking them intentionally? Aizen you are talking my language!" Grimmjow said.
Ulquiorra and Tier said nothing but in the cocoa skin woman's head she was starting to doubt her team owner.
'Why is Aizen so insistent on destroying the Kurosaki team? They haven't done anything have they?'
The meeting broke up and Tier began to head back to the room she shared with her companions.
'I know Aizen took us from the streets but now he wants us to intentionally hurt a team that hasn't been in the Grand Prix very long. Is it a grudge? Is it power?'
"You look like you've got a lot on ya mind, Tier." A familiar snide voice sounded.
The blonde turned to see the fox-faced Gin.
"What do you want Ichimaru?"
Gin kept his smile. "My, my, is that any way to talk to your teammate? How would Aizen take it if he found out you were insulting his right hand man."
Tier's look turned to steel. "I ask again what do you want?" She said turning around.
Gin walked up to her. "Even I know Aizen is pushing his luck, did you know Souske Limited is in massive debt? At least according to the books."
Tier turned back around. "What are you saying?"
Gin kept smiling. "I'm saying that Aizen has been fudging the numbers for at least the last eight years. And he's threatened all of the auditors and accountants with deaths to their families if they went public with the findings."
Tier shook her head. "What proof do you have, for all I know you could be like the animal you're nicknamed for?
Gin just chuckled and held up a flash drive. "I finally convinced an accountant that's been here for the last several years. In here is the real financials and the books that Souske is showing the world."
Tier looked at the flash drive and then back at Gin. "Show me."
Gin flashed a grin and told Tier to follow him. A few minutes later Gin was on his computer.
"This is my own personal computer. Aizen has no access to it mainly because it would violate my privacy rights. But anyway, on the left are the financials that are real."
Tier looked and saw in the past three quarters that Souske limited was tens of millions in the red. When Gin show the numbers Souske was reporting, there was a massive discrepancy.
"I don't understand why is Souske hiding this much?" Tier said.
"Souske Limited has some fooled auditors into thinking that he has made a profit in his company when in reality it has been from multiple criminal enterprises. Now the question becomes how you tie him to the crimes."
Tier looked at Gin. "Why are you showing this to me?"
"Because I want to see Souske Limited brought down but not at the cost of those who haven't done anything. You and your three companions have not done anything illegal and I am trying to work out a way that does not involve you being thrown in jail." Gin said with a small frown.
Tier closed her eyes. "Those three are truly the only ones in the world that matter to me. If you can make sure they don't go to jail then I will support your endeavors."
Gin chuckled. "Sacrificing yourself to the wolves to protect your friends. You are a nice person under all that.
Tier in a rare emotion smiled briefly then returned to her stoic look. "What's our next move?"
Gin started walking out the door. "For the moment we keep our act up. I have sent this information to my handler. I just got a message that it's being sent to someone who can probably decipher it a lot better. We wait until that happens. Until then, pretend we never had this conversation." Gin said walking out.
Tier looked at the door and then clenched her fists. 'Sun-Sun, Apache, Mila Rose. I will do everything to protect you. I promise."
Gin walked out to his car and dialed a number. "Hello, Kuchiki.
"Gin, I guess your timing is perfect. I am being sent to get Hisana, Ramen with chocolate sauce."
"Geez her pregnancy is really coming along ain't it. Anyway I have a slight complication on my end.
"Did Aizen find out?" Byakuya said showing some emotion.
"Is that worry I hear? No nothing like that. It seems my suspicion about the shark is founded. She agreed to help bring our target down, in exchange she wants to make sure her friends are kept out of trouble."
"I'll see what I can manage, as long as they were unaware of anything I can play the unwilling victim card and might get them to show sympathy for Tier. They had nowhere to go correct?"
"Yes. They were out on the streets and they cut their teeth outdriving the cops. They had a bad owner personality wise and when Souske took over that team, they came with it."
"I see. No money to oppose him that was the only chance they could get out of poverty. Very well. We'll talk more in Barcelona."
"One more thing. I am curious as to who you sent this information to?"
"I cannot disclose their name but I assure, our partner knows him enough to handle this. What I want you to do is make sure Aizen doesn't find out who he is."
"I take it is someone that's not even involved with either team?"
"Not directly. Let's just say, if Eagle finds out his elder is helping us behind his back, he will not be happy."
"I know. I hope we tell them soon because it will start involving them soon."
"Yes and maybe my team as well. We'll discuss this later, Hisanna might be worried."
"Alright. Good luck and say hi to Rangiku."
"She misses you terribly, we might be able to work something out in a couple of weeks.
"Thank you." Gin said and hung up. He sighed and took something out of his shirt. It was a plain gold band on a necklace. But to Gin it was more. Because of his 'public' breakup with Kuchiki Industries and Rangiku Matsumato he was seen as a traitor and a sell-out for going to Souske. But the break-up was planned by all parties involved to make sure Souske didn't truly suspect a thing. As Aizen did not keep tabs on him 24/7 they have been able to meet up when he wasn't racing and when she wasn't working with Renji's pit crew.
"I miss you Ran-chan." Gin said as he drove away.
Barcelona, May 31st Night time
Serenity was sighing as she took a sip of her beer. The Hendrick camp had just let out and she was now looking over the balcony of her hotel room that she shared with one of her teammates. She was in a long white t-shirt and red sleep shorts. The shirt emphasized her slender build.
"Some slump we've had this year." A male voice said. She turned to see Robert walking up to the balcony and sitting down, wearing a grey tank top and blue shorts.
Serenity just turned around and took a sip only for her to burp.
Robert chuckled. "So un ladylike."
"I ain't a lady I'm a driver." Serenity said giggling. She calmed down. "I am still trying to figure out why I'm not doing as well this year.
Robert sighed and sat down on a chair next to her. "Maybe it's the pressure to repeat maybe it's just the team. I mean with the exception of Souske most of the teams changed drivers. Even Kurosaki changed drivers in the off season."
Serenity giggled. "Those guys are pretty awesome. Five wins in eleven races and we are just reached the half-way point."
Robert grinned. "If the rumors are true they are dating on the side. At least Andrew and Ichigo were pretty close to those reporter girls."
Serenity gushed. "They look so cute together." Serenity said uncharacteristically.
Robert shook his head. "Women and relationships." Robert said taking another sip.
Serenity looked at her childhood friend. It might have been the alcohol but suddenly she didn't see her friend from the crib. No she saw a man who understood her pressure. Her pressure to succeed, her pressure to live up to her family's reputation, her pressure to carry a country on her back.
"Robert?" Serenity said quietly.
"Hm?" Robert turned and Serenity hesitated and then pulled him close to kiss him on the lips. Robert's stunned silence slowly faded as he put the bottle down and pulled Serenity closer.
When they released they were out of breath.
"Wow." Robert said. Serenity giggled at his reaction. He recovered to look seriously at her. "I'm not drunk am I because that moment has been in my head for years?"
Serenity giggled again. "I don't know, as far as I know I am sober enough to do that." She looked down and blushed. "How long?"
"Sorry?"
"How long have you been feeling this way towards me?" The blonde said as she adjusted herself on his lap.
"Honest truth? I guess I've always had them. But I didn't realize it until our prom."
Serenity remembered that night. That was one of the few times she acted like a girl and dressed up unlike her younger sister who was modeling. She had more than a few boys gawk at her but when she saw Robert's reaction, she couldn't be happier about his blushing. It was at that point she realized that her cradle mate was the right man for her. Judging from his reaction, she realized why they hadn't made a move sooner.
"We're idiots aren't we?" Serenity said nuzzling into his chest and sighed into the embrace.
"Yeah, guess with our careers we couldn't find the time to see people." Robert said with a far-off look.
"Should we try?" Serenity asked with a hopeful look. "Should we try us as boyfriend and girlfriend? I mean we practically know each other already. The only thing I see changing is us sleeping together is more intimate than we were younger."
Robert chuckled. "I guess so." He said. "Yeah let's try it. Who knows maybe it will be fun."
Serenity smiled and the laid there watching the sea before Robert stood up and cradled Serenity bridal style as they walked to their bed.
Next day in the city
Andrew, Ichigo and their girlfriends arrived in the historic city. Even a week before the tournament began the city was gearing up for the World Cup which was to begin the following week. The stadium in the city, Camp Nou would be hosting many of the games including the Final set to be played during their off week. For both Andrew and his Japanese counterparts they were going to watch their respective teams try to win the cup from Britain who won it four years prior in Canada.
With history and culture in the city and a history major and two photojournalists in their group Ichigo was the unfortunate bystander as they took in the sites of the capital of the Catalan region.
They were stopping a café for lunch. It was obvious from the perspiration that it was quite hot due to the time of the year, which was late spring.
"Man this is hotter than Abu Dhabi." Tatsuki said waving one of the fans they got from a curiosity stand.
"Well there is definitely some humidity here. But at least there is a small breeze." Andrew said as he took a sip of his drink. He looked and spotted some familiar blonde hair. Andrew pulled out his phone and dialed a number.
"Should I be concerned that you have another girl's number on your phone?" Tatsuki said teasingly.
"Never took for the possessive type Tatsuki." Andrew asked right back. He put the phone up to his ear. After a couple of rings the call connected.
"Hello?"
"You know there aren't many pale skinned blondes in this country and I know the cup is next week?"
"Who is this? How did you get this number?"
"I'm hurt Serenity you don't remember me and Ichigo?" Andrew joked.
"Andrew!? Holy cow I'm so sorry. Where the heck are you guys?" Serenity almost shouted getting her partner's attention.
"On your nine o clock, we are in a restaurant having some drinks we haven't ordered anything else."
Serenity turned to see the Andrew and Orihime waving. Grabbing Robert's hand they made their way to the restaurant where pleasantries were exchanged.
"So we haven't really talked in a while I mean with the traveling and the short time between races it's kind of hard to keep a social life." Ichigo said.
Robert chuckled. "Yeah four races in 13 days and 10 races in 11 weeks will do that but we have thankfully been keeping our sanity intact."
"It helps that you have a couple of home tracks coming up." Tatsuki said.
Serenity shrugged. "True the Glen and Daytona is a great way to end this stretch but man we have to work for it."
Serenity then looked at the couples across from them and noticed a more intimate closeness than before. "So…anything you want to tell us? Say your relationship status?"
The aforementioned couples had the decency to blush. Orihime just buried her head into Ichigo's shoulder, while Andrew just casually placed an arm around Tatsuki's shoulder and the tomboy made no move to show her discomfort.
"Guess the cat's out of the bag Ichigo. Yes we finally started dating, it was before Russia for both of us." Andrew said.
Ichigo chuckled. "What can I say, who can say no to this beauty?" Ichigo said placing a tender kiss the princess' head.
Andrew mock gagged only to be smacked on the head. "Excuse me, Mr. Pot, you were gagging at the PDA."
Andrew mumbled something about not being fair.
The American couple giggled. "Wow talk about a spitfire you have there Andrew."
Andrew shrugged his shoulders. "Wouldn't trade her. Though it might pose a conflict of interest with their jobs.
Orihime looked up at Andrew. "Our boss was sympathetic to us when we told him this. If we have to resign from this I'm sure we can work out we stay with NGC through the end of the season."
Ichigo nodded. "Good wouldn't want you out of a job. Though with what we make I wouldn't care if you stayed at home and work on those children books you've told me so much about."
Orihime squeaked and slapped Ichigo's chest. "Ichigo don't say that out loud. Someone has to keep you in line."
Serenity grinned. "That's right Orihime, sometimes our men need to be kept in line. Right Robert?"
"Yes dear. Though it will take a lot to keep us in line." Robert said almost automatically.
Andrew shook his head. "You guys too? Damn this seems to be the year of romantic pairings. If I heard the rumors correctly, Jessica Rosburg from Ferrari and Raoul Garcia from Audi are starting to date.
"Where the heck did you hear that?" Ichigo asked.
"When someone is playing games people tend to not notice. I overheard Jessica's female teammates when I was bored and our pit boxes were next to each other in Monaco. I think they've been together since Austria but I am not sure." Andrew said.
"Go figure." Robert said.
It was at this point some of the patrons recognized the drivers and started making their way over to their table. Within minutes the four drivers were swarmed with autograph and picture requests. Tatsuki and Orihime laughed and helped out with some of the photographs. After about an hour they finally manage to break away from the crowd in the restaurant and have their lunch. Once finished the now group of six went back to touring the city.
Next day at the Circuit de Catalunya One hour before qualifying
The drivers had gotten suited up and were patrolling the pit lane before they started qualifying. They had practice earlier and the slick track threw off many drivers and some complained about the heat in the cars. The Kurosaki team was sitting in the relative shade of the paddock (Another word for the garage.)
"Geez the heat is insane." Tatsuki said waving her fan in front of her face. Orihime had seen better days as her face was as red as her hair from the heat.
"You're lucky you get the relative A/C of this paddock. We are in the cars driving in there with none of that and for most part we will be racing with the heat pouring down on us." Ichigo said taking a large gulp of Gatorade.
"If there's any consolation it will be at sunset so hopefully the track will start cooling off slightly." Uryuu
"Not really. The front straight faces west its going to be right in our eyes until it sets behind the stands. Which might be at least a half an hour." Chad said which got groans from the other drivers.
Andrew was doing his best ignoring the heat with his game system. He was slightly flushed as well having not recovered fully from the in-car heat.
"Well, well if it isn't the Kurosaki whelps." A snide voice sounded. They turned to see the blue haired Spanish driver walk up to them.
Ichigo immediately stood up. "What the heck do you want Grimmjow we haven't done any to you."
Grimmjow chuckled. "Just coming over to see how you're handling the heat. I mean I grew up in this weather this perfect for me." He turned to see Andrew seemingly not paying attention to conversation. He strolled over and was about to take the game system when Andrew spoke.
"You touch me you lose that arm Jaegerjaquez." Andrew said looking up. He finally got to a save spot and turned off the game.
"You still playing those games? What are you 10?" Grimmjow said reaching over to attempt to take it. Andrew though was a bit quicker and tossed it over to Tatsuki who put it her bag.
"I play those games to take the edge off Grimmjow. What I do in my free time does not concern you in the slightest."
Grimmjow grinned and got incredibly close to Andrew. Looking at the two it was obvious that Grimmjow had the height but the bulk clearly went to Andrew. It was like comparing a panther to a lion. (A/N Andrew is 5'10 205 lbs. According to Bleach Wiki Grimmjow is 6'1 178 lbs.)
"So what if you decide to play these games. You are not a better driver than me." The Spaniard said.
Andrew just grinned. "I seemed to recall back in Abu Dhabi, a certain driver said we would be a distant memory by this point. Who's on top of the standings in both the team and the driver's standings? I think if my memory is correct…three of us are in front of you points wise and the fourth is just less than a race behind. Now then who is the bad driver here?"
Grimmjow snarled and grabbed Andrew by the suit. This made the others around the two step in and try to separate them. Ichigo and Chad managed to get Andrew separated and Tatsuki pushed Andrew back.
Grimmjow was pushed back and right before he could retaliate Ulquiorra had walked up and pulled him back.
"You're lucky punk, I could easily waste you on and off the track." Grimmjow yelled as Ulquiorra and two of Grimmjow's crew members held him back.
Andrew went to retaliate but Tatsuki held him back. Meanwhile Grimmjow had taken to leering at Orihime which set Ichigo off. This was finally broken up when a couple of the officials walked over to separate the groups. It was this point, Isshin and Kisuke showed up and pulled aside their drivers to chat with them. Fortunately, they had started to cool off by this point.
"So you called him out on his racing skills? Nice. Get him riled up and you are now in his head." Kisuke said holding his oriental fan in front of his face.
"Yeah, he got a little too close to me. I was trying to get him to back off." Andrew said holding his head in pain, whether it was stress or the heat, he didn't know."
"Alright just cool off for a few minutes, qualifying is coming up." Kisuke said patting him on the shoulder and walking away.
Andrew sighed. He noticed in his vision a bottle of aspirin. He looked up to see Tatsuki with a smile.
"Dealing with Orihime kind of necessitates this." Tatsuki said.
Andrew being thankful sat up and kissed her to which Tatsuki eagerly enjoyed. An hour later qualifying took place. Despite the slick track, Andrew managed to qualify well while Ichigo wasn't far behind him. But when the qualifying ended, the standings showed that three Souske drivers were grouped with three of the Kurosaki and three of the Hendrick drivers, with the American drivers separating the Japanese drivers.
Kisuke chuckled when he saw the tower. "This will be interesting to see. I fear something is going to snap."
Starting Line-up: Barcelona
Brian Mcnish
Rebecca Kirkland
Archie Stewart
Tier Harribel
Serenity Gordon
Andrew Michaels
Soi Fong
Ralph Hamilton
Alexandra Edwards
Ichigo Kurosak
iRobert Johnson
Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez
Patricia Stenhouse
Flippe Massa III
Francesca Alonso
Ulquiorra Cifer
George Schumacher
Marcus Andretti
Chad Yasotora
Kira Izuru
Dale Earnhardt IV
Michael Busch
Jason Webber
Ikkaku Madarame
Allen Regan
Renji Abarai
Uryuu Ishida
Ralph Dillon
Gin Ichimaru
Michael Kennseth
Jessica Rosburg
Jason Vettal
Ralph Dillon
Raoul Garcia
Shawn Newman
Maria Robertson
(Kisuke was right this could be bloody)
Saturday Morning June 4th
Orihime stretched in the sheets of her shared bed. Feeling around she pouted when she didn't feel Ichigo. She sighed and giggled. She couldn't believe she was used to Ichigo's body in the same bed as her. Crawling out of bed and putting on a robe to cover her sleep wear she walked through the plane in search of her boyfriend. When she got to door that lead outside she stopped and had leaned on the door and smiled. She saw Ichigo and Andrew lightly sparing in the mid-morning sun. Unlike the previous week where they spared to clear the air between this looked more like keeping free of the stress that had been building the last couple of days. She smiled as she watched them practice their moves.
"Morning Hime." Orihime turned to see her friend walked up. She still had the shirt she had slept in but had thrown on some pants. Orihime returned the greeting and the girls looked at the sparing men.
"It's something huh? If you told me at the beginning of the year that we would be standing here watching our boyfriends like this, I would think you were in one of your fantasies."
The princess smiled at her friend and turned back to the guys. Tatsuki looked over to Orihime. "What are your feelings towards Ichigo?" Tatsuki asked out of the blue.
Orihime chewed her lips in thought and closed her eye. "I believe, no, I know in my heart he's the only man for me. I don't know at this point how I didn't know him before. I am just hoping he returns it."
Tatsuki shook her head. "Yeah, Andrew said he wasn't sure but he admitted he wouldn't mind if I became the mother of his children."
Orihime smiled. "I wouldn't mind being an Auntie to your kids. Just like you wouldn't mind being my kids Aunt. You would be a great mom. You don't show it but you have compassion and kindness. It just took the right guy to let it out of you. It's nice to see you act like a normal young girl."
Tatsuki was shocked at the philosophical nature of those words. They turned to see the boys had just finished their exercising and were walking back. Their looks brightened upon seeing the girls talking.
Ichigo approached Orihime and had a gentle look to his face. "Hey there. Did you sleep well?" Ichigo said kissing Orihime.
"I did, I missed my pillow." Orihime said. Andrew gagged. "My teeth are rotting here."
Tatsuki smacked him. "Don't ruin the moment." She said.
"You're just jealous I can make you a puddle of goo just like her but I haven't done it today." Andrew said which got an embarrassed blush from the tomboy. He looked over at the track. "They are going all out with the celebration. World Cup starts next week and they think the party's starting early."
Tatsuki sighed. "To think a country can put so much into two events like this. Oh well, we record you drive we aren't supposed to worry about the big details."
"Truer words haven't been said Tatsuki." Ichigo said walking into the trailer with Orihime.
Andrew looked down at his Ipod and selected a song to play.
(Begin Montague. Play Ladies and Gentleman by Saliva)
As the song begins its build the sun began to set casting a red glow over the track.
Already in their suits Andrew and Ichigo were waiting for Chad and Uryuu. Once they were ready they walked together in a show of solidarity.
Across the infield the Souske team was doing the same thing though there was more of a mix of emotions, from Grimmjow's smugness to Ulquiorra's aloofness to Gin's smile and Tier's emotionlessness.
In the garage area, tensions were high as most of the Kurosaki team was not that far from a Souske garage. Kisuke had dubious honor of being near two drivers that were in conflict with his team.
All around the track, images of celebration were shown. From banners to fireworks to even dancers. Where the drivers were going to be introduced, there were fireworks and stage lights set up. The track and the city were ready to welcome the world.
On pit road the crews were moving the cars out onto the grid. They were wiping their brows as the temperatures were still in the low 90's. They walked back into the paddock to await the race to begin.
In the pre-race meeting the A/C was on full blast but the drivers were still feeling it. Yamamoto mercifully made the meeting short with an emphasis on making sure to keep the race clean. But to most of the drivers in room they knew somehow this was not going to happen.
(End previous montage. Begin Fox Intro, Play Boys of Summer by The Ataris)
Summer is all about the fun and the sun. School's out, the Beach is calling and so is the world. But for these Boys and Girls of Summer (Screenshots of several drivers are shown), their job is just beginning. As the heat rises so do the tension. Souske and Kurosaki are already gunning for each other as they are within striking distance of each other.
(Begin Chorus)
As the season approaches the halfway point its fair to say that those that can survive this incredibly long stretch of racing and the summer's heat, they can be deserved to be called the Grand Prix Champion. As the world watches, the Boys and Girls of Summer will be gone before you know it."
(The camera pans over the circuit) Bienvenido a España. (Welcome to Spain.)
The real camera is looking at the sunset as the fox intro music begins to play.
Jeremy: A blistering hot day greets us in the very historic city of Barcelona, Spain. One of many things that the drivers will have to contend with under the lights.
(Pans to the booth)
Jeremy: Good evening from Barcelona, Spain I am Jeremy Buck. Alongside my colleague we welcome you to the 12th round of the World Grand Prix. We are essentially at the halfway point of the season and this fiftieth anniversary year has been full of surprises.
Nate: You got that right Jeremy and none has been more surprising than the Kurosaki-Ishida drivers. Wins at Melbourne, Abu Dhabi, Korea, Road America and last week Monaco have kept them in first place through the entire season as we see both standings. They have a sixty-six point lead on the nearest team and they have the first two spots in the individual standings. As we said the most recent win was at Monaco by Chad Yasotora who is with our Jermain Ferguson. Jermaine?
Jermaine: (Over the Fireworks and cheers and boos with introductions) Thank you it's quite hard to hear over these fireworks. Now Chad you won of the more prestigious races in the world. How do you feel about this team going forward?
Chad: I feel we can win this year at every race track. I was just fortunate enough to be able to outlast my competitors last week. Which is what we need to keep winning. I may have qualified poorly but these Kurosaki-Ishida Hondas are always dangerous no matter where they start.
Jermaine: Love the confidence from you. He starts 19th. Now to the man who ran out at the end of last week, He is with Kiyone.
Kiyone: Thanks Jermaine. Ulquiorra you were two laps from victory but you ran out. How much of that is on your mind tonight.
Ulquiorra: I did not win championships because I dwelled on the past. It was unfortunate and I hope to rectify that mistake soon. (Walked away
Kiyone: Okay thank you. Back to you Kommamura.
After the pomp and circumstance surrounding the introductions the drivers were strapping in as the crews stripped off the windshield protectors. Andrew was strapping already feeling the heat. He had a Gatorade in the cup holder, ready when needed.
Two cars over Tier was strapping in and she sighed. She looked over to Andrew who already ready to race. 'What could Aizen be planning with these drivers?" She asked herself.
A couple of rows back Grimmjow was set in his car. He looked over to Ichigo and then at Robert. When Robert turned around Grimmjow made a slashing gesture across his neck. Robert turned and focused on what was in front of him.
"Now Ladies and Gentleman. It's time for Barcelona Grand Prix. DRIVERS! START YOUR ENGINES!"
The roar of the crowd was drowned out by the 36 engines roaring to life. Whatever heat was there was increased by engines exhaust.
Japanese Booth
Kommamura: The crowds are fired up and it isn't because of the heat. It's time to get this race under way.
Jushiro: This is 102 laps around this 2.8 mile circuit. Fuel run is about 23-25 laps but tire might play a role. Other factors include watching the engine temps. It is hot and were a few miles from the ocean so the breeze is not as pronounced. Another thing is the down force. Most of this track is fast, we are entering a stretch of four races in five where speed is a huge factor. These long straights can easily cause the RPM's to go over 12000. (Camera pans down the front stretch) That last turn all to turns 1 and 2 and to some extent turn 3 you don't have to brake really hard, in fact most can take it in fifth gear. And with the heat this track is slippery. Cars going to have a hard time finding grip especially on older tires.
After three laps the pace car left the track and the Audi teammates of Brian Mcnish and Rebecca Kirkland led the field down the long straight to the green flag. Mcnish got the edge and beat his teammate to the turn, slowly down only slightly. As they barreled through the turns there was surprisingly no turn one wrecks. Mcnish put some distance on his teammate who was battling Archie Stewart. A little further back Soi Fong got around Andrew to the young man's frustration. Further back Ichigo had started got around Alexandra Edwards and left her to the mercy of Grimmjow.
The drivers settled down as they got through some the more technical parts of track and back onto the front stretch.
American Booth
Jeremy: Lap one in the books, the veteran Brian Mcnish in front of Archie Stewart, Soi Fong is around Kirkland for third. Andrew Michaels in fourth having gotten around Serenity and his gunning for Kirkland.
Twelve laps later the situation had changed. Archie had taken the lead from Mcnish on lap 5 when he got loose in turn 6. Soi Fong then took it on lap 8 beating him into the front stretch. Now Andrew had set his crosshairs on the Tsundere Chinese woman. Using the downhill section between 9 and 10 he used the momentum to slip past her and slammed the door going into turn eleven. Soi Fong got mad enough that she lost control and allowed Serenity to pass her. Andrew led for two laps, when Serenity, using a maneuver from her NASCAR days, used the draft to pull up right on Andrew's bumper and got to his right as they entered the first turn.
"Sorry sugar. Better luck next time!" She said over the radio in her southern drawl.
Andrew blinked and shook his head. "She deserved to be called champion Kisuke."
"I can here the cheers from the crew. How's the car?"
"Slippery but otherwise normal considering the track." Andrew said.
Over the next four laps, Serenity kept the lead but came in with Andrew, part of their strategy as they could probably stretch it to 25 laps if the wanted to. This gave it to Rebecca Kirkland for a couple of laps before pitting and giving it to Soi Fong.
Japanese Booth
Kommamura: It seems like the women are in charge here. All but ten laps so far have been led by a combination of Soi Fong, Serenity Gordon and Rebecca Kirkland.
Jushiro: I remember when I started out, there were including my teammate Dr. Retsu Unohana, only three racing in top tier. But now almost a quarter of the GP1 this year is female. It goes to show how racing has changed.
Kommamura: It helps when some of the premier racing families had girls. But yes racing has changed from its early years.
On the track it was now lap 30 and Andrew had taken the lead back from his rival. There had been three retirements from the race. Francesca Alonso had lost the oil pressure and was forced to pull out on turn twelve. Marcus Andretti lost his drive and was able to coast his car to the pit road before being pulled into the paddock. And the most recent retirement was Jason Vettal after leaving the track and hitting the wall knocking the suspension loose.
Up at the front of the field Tier had caught up to Andrew and successfully passed him right before the front stretch in the area designed for passing.
Tier had a small smile as she was finally doing well at a race and she had the car to match that enthusiasm.
After a few more laps the next round pit stops began and Tier gave up the lead to Rebecca again. In about 15th place Grimmjow was trying to get around Robert who was valiantly trying to hold onto his car.
"Grr…you stupid blue American I will crush you." He yelled and got up right on his bumper and turned him. Unfortunately for both parties involved the track had narrowed considerably. Slowing down to enter the pits was Renji who got nailed by Robert sending both into the wall. When Grimmjow tried to get around the wreck he collided with Raoul Garcia who was coming up behind them. All four cars sent debris right out into the track which forced the full-course caution out.
Robert groaned as he unhooked his helmet. "Sorry guys."
"Its alright Robert. As long as you're okay."
Robert nodded and climbed out of the car.
Grimmjow though could still drive his car and had fired up the engine. He waited for some of the cars to pass and then in the limited vision he saw the blue and white 32. He grinned and revved up the engine and clipped Uryuu. The 32 lost control and crashed into the wall wrecking him as well.
American Booth
Jeremy: As the next round of pits stops continue, Kirkland is in-
Nate: (Camera pans to the entrance of pit road) Trouble at pit entrance oh good lord what a wreck the full course yellow is being displayed. Let's I see at the pit entrance the 64 of Renji Abarai and the 48 of Robert Johnson and holy cow the 06 just clipped the 32 he's involved as well. Who else is there I see the 004 of Raoul Garcia. Geez what the heck happened here? Let's look at the replays.
(Replays are shown)
Jeremy: Looks like Grimmjow was impatient and clipped Robert as they neared the entrance to pit road. Poor Renji and Raoul were innocent bystanders as they got hit by both drivers. (Another angle is shown with similar images) just wrong place wrong time for those two.
Nate: (In car camera from Uryuu) This is Uryuu let's see what happened. (The car is running down and he is shown trying to avoid the wreck and is clipped) It looks like Uryuu was trying to avoid the wreck and he got clipped as Grimmjow looks to have not seen him.
In the pit area, Ryuken took a look at the replay and scowled. His crew though were more vocal at their opinions, they rightfully thought that Grimmjow wreck Uryuu. He got down from the bench to go give Grimmjow's crew chief a stern talking too when the cameras showed a fight in the area of the wreck.
At the wreck side, Robert had recovered and helped Renji out of his car. Renji was talking to Robert about what caused the wreck and they made their way over to Grimmjow. Uryuu had done the same thing for Raoul and was marching his way over to Grimmjow.
"What the heck was that Grimmjow? Did you not see?" Uryuu yelled.
Grimmjow grinned. "Sorry I don't listen to rookies. You should have been more careful." He remarked.
"You wrecked me intentionally you bastard." Robert called out and threw a punch at Grimmjow. He responded with a punch which hit Robert and the other three drivers attempted to break it up. Grimmjow hit Uryuu as well before the race officials broke it up. Angry words were exchanged by the Japanese team drivers and they were told once they were cleared to report to the trailer.
Japanese Booth
Kommamura: Well a big wreck results in a big fight. Grimmjow throwing punches at Johnson, Ishida getting some punches in as well, same with Abarai.
Jushiro: If I know Yamamoto all four involved will be sent to the trailer for discipline. Kurosaki and Souske have had bad blood all weekend as they got into a scuffle before qualifying yesterday.
On track, Rebecca had come in before the wreck which gave the lead to Harribel. After a few laps they were allowed to pit. Once the clean-up was done, on lap 53 the race was restarted and Tier led them down the stretch in front of Soi Fong, Serenity and Andrew.
"What happened to Uryuu?" Andrew called to Kisuke.
"He's fine but he and those involved are being called in for discipline."
"Damn, but who can blame him Grimmjow probably did wreck him intentionally." He said while Serenity passed him.
"Ryuken is furious but at the very least he should only get by with probation." Kisuke said.
Andrew sighed. "Alright. Strategy for the last pit stop I think we should only take fuel.
"You sure? I think tires would be more prudent."
"I've done better with older tires. Just pack me enough to get to the end."
Kisuke acknowledged it and watched the race develop. Soon it came the time for the final pit stop. Andrew came in on lap on 75 and as strategized he only took on fuel. When it cycled through he had the lead but he was conserving fuels and had older tires his times were way off compared to the three girls catching him.
American Booth
Jeremy: As we wind down to the final 15 laps, Andrew Michaels' lead is shrinking considerably.
Nate: He is on older tires and he is trying to get to the end on fuel so he's backing off. Meanwhile, the 002, the 03 and the 24 are battling for second. Looks like the winner of this group might win this race.
In Andrew's cockpit he was driving along lapping Maria Robertson when he got a call from Kisuke.
"Andrew can your read me?"
"Yeah what's up?" Andrew called.
"We know you're probably not going to win its going to be whoever wins that exchange behind you. Based on closing speed their battle is coming up in the next lap and a half. Isshin wants you to let Soi Fong by."
Andrew widened his eyes. "You want me to do what!?"
"Let Soi Fong by. We are not going to let a Souske driver win. So when they catch you, you are going to let her by and hold up Tier.
Andrew shook his head and remained silent. As predicted, the three drivers caught up with Andrew. Knowing his stubbornness they were going to try set him up to either burn fuel or have him make a mistake.
"Senna who's in third?" He asked defeated.
"Its Serenity Andrew." Senna called out.
Andrew suddenly had more energy and smiled behind his helmet. "Kisuke. You said there were two options. Well I'm taking door number three."
"Wait What?"
Andrew grinned and watched as Tier tried to make the move on the outside heading into turn 14. Andrew immediately blocked her and forced her to check up. Serenity took the opportunity and zoomed by him.
Japanese booth
Kommamura: He couldn't block both of them so he chose to let Serenity by. Tier falls to third Andrew falls to fourth. What an exchange!
Jushiro: It seem like Andrew was in a king maker scenario. Let's see if his move gave Serenity the race.
Serenity pulled away slightly as Tier got around Soi Fong. The Hendrick and Souske drivers had the best cars all day and they were showing it. They were 1-2 for the final 16 laps as Tier slowly gained on Serenity.
American Booth
Jeremy: Final lap in the Spanish Grand Prix. The lead from the Champ to the Shark is less than a second. Can Serenity hold her off?
On the track, Serenity barely hit her marks which allowed Tier to close in. But she could not capitalize. Entering the final turns, Tier tried to pass her again weaving in and out. Entering the final turn, Tier got up real close on to Serenity's bumper and then tried to duck towards the pit wall as they approached the line.
Japanese Booth
Kommamura: This is going to be close, here they come to the line! They reach the line nose to nose. Who won?
Jushiro: It's Serenity, 3 one thousandths of second. The Hendrick champion wins in Barcelona.
When Serenity heard this, she let out an ecstatic cheer in her car. Andrew who managed to coast home in fifth was happy as well.
"You do realize Isshin is mad right?"
"I know…but my conscious is clear." Andrew said finishing off the Gatorade in the car.
Serenity drove into pit lane where her new boyfriend was waiting to congratulate her. Tier though was furious on the inside but she did not show it publically. Serenity went on to celebrate as the fireworks lit up the Barcelona night.
With conspiracies and other events happening, what will happen to our heroes as the head to Britain? Find out on Bleach Grand Prix.
Finish Order: Barcelona
1. Serenity Gordon, Hendrick, 40 points 28 laps led
2. Tier Harribel, Souske 36 points 19 laps led
3. Rebecca Kirkland Audi 35 points 5 laps led
4. Soi Fong, Kuchiki, 34 points 22 laps led
5. Ulquiorra Cifer, Souske 32 points
6. Andrew Michaels, Kurosaki 32 points 18 laps led
7. Michael Busch, Stewart-Haas 30 points
8. Patricia Stenhouse, Rousch 29 points
9. Brian Mcnish, Audi, 29 points 4 laps led
10. Alexandra Edwards, Rousch 27 points
11. Ikkaku Madarame, Kuchiki 26 points
12. Ichigo Kurosaki, Kurosaki 25 points
13. Archie Stewart, Stewart-Haas 25 points 3 laps led
14. Chad Yasotora, Kurosaki, 23 points
15. Flippe Massa III, Red Bull,22 points
16. Ralph Hamilton, Red Bull, 21 points
17. Bjorn Kristensen, Audi 20 points
18. Ralph Dillon, Hendrick 19 points
19. George Schumacher, Ferrari 18 points
20. Jason Webber, Red Bull, 17 points
21. Michael Kennseth, Rousch 16 points
22. Allen Regan, Rousch, 15 points
23. Jessica Rosburg, Ferrari 14 points 1 lap down
24. Gin Ichimaru, Souske, 13 points 1 lap down
25. Shawn Newman, Stewart-Haas 12 points 1 lap down
26. Kira Izuru, Kuchiki, 11 points 1 lap down
27. Dale Earnhardt IV, Hendrick 10 points 2 laps down
28. Maria Robertson, Ferrari, 9 points 2 laps down
29. Uryuu Ishida, Kurosaki 8 points Out
30. Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, Souske 7 points Out
31. Robert Johnson Hendrick 6 points Out
32. Renji Abarai, Kuchiki, 5 points Out
33. Raoul Garcia, Audi 4 points Out
34. Jason Vettal, Red Bull, 3points Out
35. Marcus Andretti, Stewart-Haas, 2 points Out
36. Francesca Alonso, Ferrari 1 point Out
Drivers names Team Points
Ichigo Kurosaki Kurosaki 308
Andrew Michaels Kurosaki 303
Serenity Gordon Hendrick 299
Ulquiorra Cifer Souske 288
Brian Mcnish Audi 286
Gin Ichimaru Souske 267
Archie Stewart Stewart-Haas 251
Ralph Hamilton Red Bull 242
Soi Fong Kuchiki 242
Chad Yasotora Kurosaki 239
Marcus Andretti Stewart-Haas 236
Uryuu Ishida Kurosaki 234
Tier Harribel Souske 232
Grimmjow Jagerjaquez Souske 231
George Schumacher Ferrari 228
Renji Abarai Kuchiki 225
Ralph Dilion Hendrick 222
Ikkaku Mandarame Kuchiki 217
Michael Kennseth Rousch 216
Maria Robertson Ferrari 214
Flippe Massa III Red Bull 213
Jason Webber Red Bull 210
Patrica Stenhouse Rousch 205
Jessica Rosburg Ferrari 195
Jason Vettal Red Bull 190
Michael Busch Stewart-Haas 189
Fransesca Alonso Ferrari 182
Kira Izuru Kuchiki 180
Shawn Newman Stewart-Haas 178
Bjorn Kristensen Audi 177
Alexandra Edwards Rousch 174
Rebecca Kirkland Audi 160
Dale Earnhardt IV Hendrick 157
Raoul Garcia Audi 155
Robert Johnson Hendrick 148
Allen Regan Rousch 146
Team Names Combined points
Kurosaki-Ishida 1084
Souske 1019
Kuchiki 864
Red Bull 855
Stewart-Haas 854
Hendrick 826
Ferrari 819
Audi 778
Rousch 741
END OF CHAPTER
UO: Good lord once again this chapter fought me. I think its the standings I insist I keep putting in here.
Tracks.
Circuit de Barcelona-Cataluyna: Built in 1991 for the Barcelona Olympics, it hosts the Spanish Grand Prix. Due to the constant testing done here its really hard to get an edge here. But due to the different builds of the cars in this story I managed to mitigate that.
Preview: As the Grand Prix heads to Britain the fallout from Spain reveals itself as Andrew confronts his superiors over the last race. Meanwhile in Britain another company takes a shot at our duo as they try to ruin the couples relationships. On the track its rookies vs. veterans on the historic Silverstone Circuit. Who will win? Find out
Next Chapter: British Invasion
UO: Please review constructively. This story is getting skipped in the rotation for 2nd Magnolia. Next up is Journeys of the Dreamer. YOu all know who you are guys just look up my other chapters for authors to check out.
All right its late time for bed.
OSPREY...SWOOOSH