OSPREY…SWOOOSH
UO: Well now with that girl dead and the studio repaired let's get back racing.
Ichigo: Who was that girl? And for that matter what was with all the crazy destruction.
Andrew: I remember that show. Ugh, it's the same guys as another show that's know for over the top craziness.
Orihime: Which one?
Andrew: Gurren Lagann.
Tatsuki: Is that the one with the mecha that has the drills and the very scantily clad sniper
Andrew: Yes. Though its more than that.
Chad: Shall we get going?
UO: Please before something else blows up.
Uryuu: UnitedOsprey1991 does not own Bleach or any of the tracks or drivers. He only owns the plot and makes no money off them.
Normal: Dialogue
"Italics and quotations": Radio, track announcer, phone conversation
Underlined and Italics: Lyrics or TV broadcast
'Italics and apostrophe': Thoughts
Bold: Yelling
Bold and Italics: Yelling in head:
Name followed by a colon: In-race TV Announcer:
Chapter 31: Rumble in the South African Jungle
September 11th: 7:30 Central European Time
When we last left the Kurosaki team, the top drivers, Ichigo Kurosaki and Andrew Michaels did not have their best efforts at Monza. Andrew fell out due to a transmission failure while Ichigo was never able to gather momentum and finished in the middle of the pack. Chad and Uryuu were left to carry the Kurosaki banner and though they did not win, it helped cement that they belonged with the team.
Adding to the stress of the previous week, the transmission failure made Andrew's temper snap and do more damage to the car. His anger was eventually quelled by an unexpected help by the Pope, who was attending the race as the track's special guest and helped heal his troubled mind.
Now they were heading back to Japan to have a week off before the next race in South Africa. The ESPN crew was in the meeting room with the drivers as Isshin was conducting his meeting. He praised Chad and Uryuu and then turned to Andrew who was looking bored.
"Now I know nothing can be done for the transmission, but can I get explanation about the dent in my car?"
Andrew sighed. "Would you rather I throw it at someone and give them a concussion or damage the car and possibly the helmet. Whatever the cost, take it out of my earnings."
Isshin nodded. "I am glad that you took responsibility for that. Please try not to do that again."
Ryuken cleared his throat. "With that out of the way, let us look at the next track on the schedule." He pulled up the circuit. "It is the Kylami circuit outside Johannesburg, South Africa. We have given you the necessary vaccines against potential diseases and to our friends from ESPN we have them available. Anyway, going down the pit stretch, you encounter a sweeping left hander that leads into turn two before slowing down for turn 3. Then another long stretch for a sweeping right hander turn 4 before another fourth gear turn 5. A small series of esses then leads to a quick turn 8 and then a hairpin turn 9. Another long sweeping turn 10 leads to a slower right turn 11. The leads to an almost 90 degree turn and then another tight turn leads to the pit straight. 2.5 Miles and it's a very tight circuit."
Isshin turned to the driver. "Get some rest. We need you guys to be at the top of your game for the remaining races of the schedule with how tight the point race is."
With that the drivers were dismissed and the crew chiefs discussed the race further.
Andrew groaned as they left meeting. "Why South Africa? Why couldn't it have been Portugal, hell I would take the heat of Baharain over this?"
Tatsuki looked concerned. "What's got you mad about this track?"
Andrew looked at Tatsuki. "I'm not racist if that's what your thinking. It's that the track's infrastructure cannot handle the crowds that are expected to come. Combine that with the pollution that plagues some of Africa's cities."
Ichigo picked up where Andrew was going. "It's a disaster waiting to happen."
Andrew nodded. "The only thing I can think as to why this track was awarded this race and that's because the owners paid a lot of money to get this track. Tatsuki can you check the number of owners of this particular track?"
Tatsuki pulled up her phone and looked it up. She let out a whistle. "Fifteen different owners in the century this track has been in existence. That sounds like a lot."
Andrew nodded. "Yeah. I seriously hope the schedule doesn't have it next year. Speaking of which, it should be out by now."
Uryuu went on his phone to check. "Let's see…2071 season. Shrunk by five races. Removing South Africa, Austria, Korea, India, Indianapolis and Daytona. They are replacing them with Portugal, Bahrain and Mexico."
"Sounds like a more efficient schedule then this year." Ichigo said as they entered the lounge.
Andrew checked the time. "Alright, NFL should be on. Let's grab some snacks and watch some football.
Ichigo chuckled and turned around. "I am going to take a shower, and then I'll join ya." Ichigo said leaving the room.
He went to his room and got some spare clothes. He entered the bathroom and turned on the shower, thankful for the large water tank this plane had. Once at a sufficient temp, he entered and went through his cleaning rituals. He let his mind wander as he did so. It had been a long year, with all of the traveling and racing. He was surprised that the stress hasn't gotten to them. He mused that it was not talking about racing when they weren't racing and all of the sightseeing they did. He then smiled. The biggest stress reliever at least to him was Orihime. Looking at her smile, it made the world just melt away at the sight of her infectious smile. He chuckled, she might be innocent to everyone, but she was a minx behind close doors. Something he hoped stay that way.
Said minx was watching Ichigo's back with a smile on her face and her PJs in hand. Getting an idea, she looked down the hall and then snuck into the bathroom. She stripped off her clothes and then quietly slipped into the shower.
Ichigo was so deep thought, that he did not register the door opening nor the shower door. It was only when a pair of dainty hands crossed over his chest that he registered that his girlfriend entered the shower. Smiling he turned around and hugged his princess as they let the water cascade down on them.
"This feels nice." Orihime said gently. "Just you and me and water. I can just let my thoughts drift away."
Ichigo chuckled as he picked up her shampoo and pour enough to cover her long hair. She moaned as he massaged her hair. After washing her hair, she lifted her arms to let him wash her body, getting her to pant as he hit all of the pleasure spots. A few minutes later of washing and holding each other they stepped out to dry each other.
Ichigo wrapped his arms around Orihime and whispered huskily into her ear. "You have no idea how much I wanted to take you in there. But I don't think we want to leave our mess in here do we?"
Orihime giggled and shook her head. They let go to get dressed, Ichigo in a pair of shorts and an under armor shirt, Orihime a pink shirt and sleep shorts. They exited the room and headed to the lounge.
"Where's The Flag!? Thank You!" Andrew's voice was heard screaming. They walked in and saw that the group had several snacks and what Andrew called tailgate food as they watched based on Andrew's reaction, his pro team.
Ichigo took a seat and looked around to see his friends, no his extended family, look like they were spending a day watching a sporting event. Tatsuki was talking with Andrew as he explained the sport to her. Chad was teaching Isane how to play pool and the silver haired nurse blushed at the contact. Uryuu, the most stuck up person in their team, was visibly relaxed with Nemu snuggling into him and watching the game with curiosity.
Looking behind, he saw one of the ESPN crew members setting up a camera, no doubt to show what they did after a race. Feeling a familiar weight settle next to him, he leaned back and hugged Orihime close. The red heads laughed as Andrew jumped up as his team scored.
'Yeah…life is good.' He thought as he settled in for the game.
Rousch Plane (Next five breaks happen at the same time.)
Alexandra Edwards was reading her book, wearing a night gown and a robe. She was getting to a good part in the book, when she heard a crash. Marking her spot she ran out of her room and walked into carnage. Allen and Michael were in a brawl and Patricia was watching on with horror as they broke the furniture in the common room.
A red headed woman stormed in and saw the carnage. "What the hell is wrong with you two?"
The shouting abruptly stopped the fighting. "Anna?" Michael said
"Oh crud." Allen moaned.
Anna Rousch was the Granddaughter of Jack Rousch, the original owner of Rousch Racing before becoming partners with the group that owned MLB's Boston Red Sox. At 32, she was not the youngest team owner, Byakuya beating her out by a year, but she has maintained her team's reputation as one of the premier teams from America. Unfortunately for her, the way her team's fortunes have gone this year, she would start having to plan on racing in GP2 next year. With the way her drivers are behaving, she might have to search for new drivers as well.
"Michael, Allen. What the hell?"
Michael groaned. "This rookie thinks that because the two Kurosaki rookies are doing well, he deserves to have more resources devoted to him."
"Yeah, well apparently I can't talk to your girlfriend without your permission. I was talking about how the rookies were doing and this asshole came in, drunk of his ass and starts wailing on me for talking to Patricia."
"Enough. We have six races left and we must present a united front. We might be in last place in the team standings, but we can still affect this race.
Michael scoffed. "Not like we can win it this year, Kurosaki unless they really screw up, they've got the team title as early as Austin maybe India. 128 points is the max a team can make up and they are 228 points ahead of the bastards at Souske."
"Michael!" Patricia asked gasping.
"Sorry, Bastards and a Bitch."
"Michael James Kennseth. You will cease this and you will go to your room to sleep off this drunken rant and I will talk to you tomorrow!" She turned to Allen. "Allen, though you were not in the wrong, you still fought with him. Please go to your room and we will talk in the more in the morning."
Patricia helped Michael to their room and Allen left to his. Anna rubbed her head. "Good lord, those to give me a headache. And where were you Alexandra?"
Alexandra raised her hands. "Hey, I was just reading and I heard a crash. Its not like I was in the room."
Anna sighed and sat down. "We've been tense all year. And us not being in contention is not helping matters. What do the Kurosaki drivers have that we don't."
Alexandra rubbed her chin. "Other than money…I've heard that all four bunk at one of their houses. I think its Kurosaki's house."
"Ishida and Kurosaki would make sense they are cousins. I suspect they will move out of their house in the near future. But Michaels and Yasotora are another matter altogether."
"I would think Michaels would bunk with one of the cousins because of where he lives. But it shows the comradery they have. Maybe they are onto something."
Anna looked at the ceiling. "Perhaps. I guess we will figure it out. After we deal with the trouble makers." She said getting Alexandra to laugh.
"Yeah. Anyway, I bid you a good night mam." Alexandra said leaving Anna to her thoughts.
"Actually living together as a team…could that be why they get together so well?" Anna said to herself as she thought how to handle the rest of the season.
Stewart-Haas plane
A similar conversation was taking place in the Stewart-Haas plane. But it was more sober and a bit more heated.
"You've got to be kidding me Archie. Your dropping me?" Michael Busch said.
Archie, the owner/driver of Stewart-Haas, looked at Busch. "Your behavior has had sponsors calling for your removal from this team. Regardless of your behavior, your performance has not warranted a contract renewal."
"Yeah, well if I hadn't gotten so many wrecks and stupid cars I might compete more."
"I don't care! Like the other teams, your actions represents the company Stewart-Haas Shipping LLC. I am sorry but that's how it is. You will finish the year, but you will not be driving for me next year."
Michael stormed off, shoving Marcus who was looking to talk with Archie.
"Uh, Boss? Why's Michael in such a huff?"
"I just told him he wasn't going to be around next year. I need to start shopping for drivers." Archie said sighing. "He wasn't performing and his behavior is conductive to our goals."
Marcus nodded. "Good. That guy is an asshole."
Archie chuckled. "Agreed. Now who might we try to get?"
"Just being funny here, we can try to go after one of the Kurosaki drivers?"
Archie shook his head. "If I didn't know you were joking I'd laugh my ass off. Those four are tight as a team can get. Perhaps why they are leading both the drivers and the team standings."
Marcus looked at his boss. "What about Andrew?"
"We weren't in contention at all last year, it was going to be Hendrick until Jushiro Ukitake retired. He must have been friends with the team before this."
"I think he was. I heard that he and Ichigo met in one of the lower American tiers and became good friends and stayed in touch."
Archie leaned back in his chair. "Go figure. Anyway, our team is in a position where if we continue to show poor results we will be dropped."
"Poor results from everyone save you. You are less than a hundred points back and are in front of three members of the top 2 teams. You still can win." Marcus said
"Yeah, if those Kurosaki kids start sucking and even then we have at least eight or nine drivers that can jump on that. Let's just focus on not dropping out of GP1. Talk to Shawn in the Morning about our next race in South Africa."
Seeing the grimace on Marcus' face, Archie had a sympathetic smile. "I know. The air quality and the urban sprawl is a killer. But look at it this way, if we stay in top tier, we won't race on it next year."
Marcus nodded and left, leaving Archie to bust out his whiskey and pouring himself a glass to take his mind off things.
Ferrari Plane (M rated scenes implied ahead)
In contrast to the tense moods in the Rousch and Stewart-Haas planes, it was much more celebratory for the Ferrari camp. Who wasn't celebrating in this camp, one of their drivers had won and they were partying like it was 2000.
Jessica had gone to her room as she felt a little woozy from drinking the wine, but George and Francesca were just getting started. The couple, as they were known, for the last few months, were drinking and making out, much to the discomfort of their teammate, Maria. The brunette was only halfway through her first glass.
"Ugh…I'm going to my room, too much PDA in here."
Francesca looked up, she was a bit tipsy but still walked over to the Belgian. "Oh come on Mari. You are from a country where beer is one of the big sellers."
"Yeah, well I am not alcoholic like you two."
George laughed. "Maria, its not that bad. I'm celebrating that we won. Can't help that I want to bust on the wine."
Maria huffed. Francesca looked up to her. "Mari, it's not that we don't drink regularly. It's that we are excited we did well for once. So just this once, live a little. Nothing will happen here that won't be between us."
Maria looked at the fellow brunette. "I…guess…a drink or two wouldn't hurt."
The Spaniard nodded and brought her over to the chair next to George. She blushed at the proximity to the male but kept it in check as she finished her glass.
Two hours later, all three were significantly drunk and their inhibitions were slowly breaking down. George had removed his shirt and Francesca was feeling him up a bit as he recalled another racing story.
Francesca started giggling. "That was really cool honey." She said leaning up to kiss George.
Maria scoffed and looked away. Her teammates turned to her. "What's wrong?"
"What's wrong is your little flirting act is getting way too far. Please go to your rooms."
Francesca giggled. "Mari's never had a girlfriend, so she doesn't know how to kiss." She said teasingly.
Maria growled. "I'll show you I don't know how to kiss." She put her glass down and took George's face in hand and slammed their lips together. The teasing girl watched in shock as her boyfriend and her best friend kissed and strangely even though she was drunk, she wasn't upset.
Maria broke the kiss and suddenly realized what happened. She turned to leave.
"I'm sorry…I don't know what came over me. I'll just go and we'll forget this." As she stood up, she felt two pairs of arms grab her and pull her down. Fearing the worse she closed her eyes. She felt something warm on her lips. Opening her eyes, she saw it was Francesca kissing her. They released and the Spaniard was out of breath.
"I believe you said that we should take our flirting to our room. I hope that means you too." George said.
"I don't know if it's the alcohol or not. But I feel like you deserve to be in our bed Mari. That is if you'll let us?" Francesca said with pleading eyes.
Maria looked at the two, who had nothing but compassion and lust in their eyes. Not even fighting the feelings, she nodded. George leaned into kiss her. Maria seem to black out at the kiss, because one moment she was on the couch, the next moment she was laying on George's chest. A quick glance showed that the occupants of the bed were naked with their clothes scattered everywhere. Nonetheless, she felt content and sighed as she regained her normal brain functions.
"Wow…what happened?" She said nuzzling closer.
Francesca giggled. "We went on a ride. You looked like you had the time of your life." She said looking at her glowing form.
Maria looked at her teammate. "Where do we go from here? I mean…you let me have sex with your boyfriend."
George chuckled and pulled them close. "I think…your welcome to join anytime. Right Fran?"
Fran nodded. "If you want to come in, our bed is open."
Maria smiled and then frowned as she sat up and turned away holding the sheets to her chest. "It's just that…I had this crush on George and I knew Fran had a similar crush on him. I decided to give up on him to let my friend go after him. I didn't want to cause a fight. And I still do like him. I just…didn't want to get in the way."
Maria felt arms wrap around her stomach. "You would never be in the way. But thank you. To be honest, I was prepared to give him up to you."
Maria giggled and slowly leaned back on her friend's chest. "So we were prepared to give up a boy we still liked to stay friends. And now look at us. We still got the same guy."
George chuckled and hugged them both. "If anyone is lucky, I am. Now then, I think I am still celebrating with two pretty ladies. Up for another round?"
Maria looked at Francesca. "It's a good thing we aren't racing tomorrow. I don't think we'll be moving much." She said as her world devolved it moans and stars.
Souske plane 10:30 PM (This is the last break of this part. Its to show what other teams do after the race)
Aizen was at his computer looking at his financial records. Due to the changing of the quarters, his company was required to post their earnings. Unfortunately for the quite troubled owner, his earnings report was due this week, and with all of the planning he did, he was behind on keeping his finances in order. Glancing at another screen, he observed that one of the big markets, particularly China's market was fluctuating wildly. This market was adversely affected the other major markets, especially the American and Japanese markets. Markets that unfortunately contained company assets. This was making investors slightly worried and some of them were starting to pull money out of the company. This had been happening for that last few months, but it started picking up steam when the U.S Securities and Exchange Commission started an investigation into possible fraud due to the fact the price dropped so rapidly. Looking at the price now, his stocks were down 30% since the beginning of the summer.
Putting the final touches on the manipulated data, he sent it to the finance department and went to garage, where his team was finishing packing up their equipment.
Syzael saw him approach. "Aizen, what are you doing down here?"
Aizen looked at the cars. "The markets are beginning to drop. Our value as a company has plummeted significantly since June. We might need to start selling assets."
Syzael nodded. "We have some companies that have been looking for buyers in America. We can start there. How is the money situation?"
"We have just enough to cover the rest of the year for racing and make it to the fourth quarter. But some of our investors are asking for money out of the stocks. The SEC is starting to come down on us. They want to meet with us along with the Japanese Stock Security Commission. (A/N: Made Up)
"What about Kurosaki and Kuchiki?"
"If we can't get to them directly, we'll do it indirectly. Those girlfriends and twin sisters would make a great target."
Syzael rubbed his chin. "In order to pull that off, they need to be alone at the same time. Kotestu is normally with Dr. Unohana. Kurotsuchi is always at the shop if not with Ishida. The twins are never not alone even after school and Arisawa and Inoue are always near their boyfriends. Getting to them will be near impossible."
"Rest assured, an opportunity will present themselves. Contact our underground racing contacts in Japan to begin surveillance on them."
Syzael nodded. "I see. You want to make them throw the races in exchange for their safety."
"Yes, however the timing must be perfect. I think the earliest they can all be together would be after China, because the whelps are extremely protective of them. In the meantime, I will begin the sell off assets."
Syzael nodded and went to finish his work on the cars. Aizen scowled. "Kurosaki…I will end you." He said as he walked away.
Wednesday September 14th, about 7:00 AM Japan Time, Kurosaki Manor (M rated scene ahead
Ichigo blinked his eyes open as he slowly awoke. Looking at the skylight, he saw that it was raining steadily. The quiet of the room allowed him to listen to the sympathy of the rain hit the window. He looked down at his chest to see Orihime sleeping away, the blanket their only cover. He spent a few minutes observing his angel and how she slept. Her face sported a smile that spoke of the volumes that while her life was great, her dreams were amazing. Coupled with her hair framing it, and the glow from last night's tryst, it almost looked mystical. Her nose scrunched up and he moved some hair out of the way. This seemed to wake the slumbering princess as she blinked her eyes open and looked up at Ichigo. She smiled and gave him chaste kiss and then put her head on his chest and began to trace her finger on his muscles.
"Morning Hime."
"Morning Ichigo. Have you been up long?"
"No, just watching you sleep. You are as beautiful as ever Hime."
Orihime beamed and giggled and then looked up. She pouted. "Mou…it's raining."
Ichigo had to restrain himself, her pouts were adorable beyond reason. "Yeah, the weather is going be like this for the next couple of days."
Orihime sighed. "I suppose we can't have all sunny days."
Ichigo chuckled and leaned into kiss her. Gently he rolled her on her back and looked at her bare form. The only thing she wore was a sapphire pendant, her birthstone, which was hanging right between her breasts. In the chaos that followed the Kuchiki home invasion, he almost forgot her birthday, which was September 4th. The pendent was her gift, and she loved it tremendously, like Tatsuki did with her cross.
Orihime smiled and moved her arms above her head. She knew what he wanted and wasn't going to stop him.
Ichigo smiled at the unspoken invitation. He leaned down to kiss her, which quickly turned heated. Letting go, he went for her neck and started sucking there. She moaned at the attack on her body and closed her eyes. Leaving her neck, he kissed down her chest and sucked her breasts after leaving a kiss on her heart.
Orihime's moans turned to pants as she got close to her climax. With a cry she came hard, staining the sheets.
Ichigo chuckled as he watched Orihime come down from her high. Recovering enough they both sat up and headed to the bathroom to finally clean up and get dressed. They weren't planning on going anywhere so they dressed casually and headed down stairs. As they passed Andrew and Tatsuki's room, they heard a curse and laughing. The two redheads looked at each other and laughed themselves. Tatsuki and Andrew were so into the game they seemed to be in their own little world. They headed down to see the ESPN crew watching as the twins finished their morning rituals and head out to school.
"Morning Yuzu, Morning Karin. Don't forget your umbrellas."
"Morning Oni-chan, Morning Nee-chan." Yuzu called out.
"Hey guys, nice to see you out of bed. Thanks for the heads up." Karin said as they ran and hugged him, before then ran out into the rain.
Lauren giggled. "You have such a connection with your sisters. So what are you going to do today?"
Ichigo scratched his head. "Well, you can see what we do at home. Tomorrow we can take you to the office."
Lauren nodded looked around and saw a picture of Masaki on the table. Ichigo saw this and his look turned sorrowful. "That's my mother."
Lauren looked over her shoulder. "She's pretty. Yuzu looks like her."
"Yeah. She was." Ichigo said walking over to the picture.
"Oh…Oh my god. I am so sorry." Lauren said gasping at the realization.
"It's fine. Its been a long time since then." He said. Nodding discreetly at her request to film it, Ichigo looked at the picture. "My mother was everything to me growing up. She was the reason I started racing. I was nine years old, when this guy, drunk out of his mind and ran us off the road in the rain. I was able to get out of the car, but my mother drowned saving my life. It still haunts me to this day. The twins barely know here, she died when they were about 3 or 4. It takes a lot of effort to not forget her."
Ichigo looked to Orihime who smiled sadly. "I wasn't the only one affected. My girlfriend, Orihime lost her brother. The guy ran him over, nearly running her over as well."
Ichigo sighed and looked at the camera. "Look deep enough and most of the team has had some unfortunate moments. Andrew's mother was in a DUI crash. Chad had some trouble with the law. Most of our crew is from a disgraced team. Dad and Mom believed in second chances and with one exception, they never regretted it. Mom, was a pure soul. She did a lot for us, not just our family. She was Uryuu's Aunt, his father's younger sister. I always wonder if she's proud of her children."
Ichigo walked away signaling the camera crew to end the shot. "Sorry about that." Lauren said.
"It's fine. You wanted to see us humanized right? Besides, its not a big secret around here." Ichigo said looking back.
Lauren nodded. "You think Andrew would open up for us?"
Ichigo looked at the ceiling. "Probably, just be careful."
Lauren nodded and then headed up to Andrew and Tatsuki's room. Knocking on the door, she heard a come in from Andrew. Entering the room, she saw that Tatsuki wasn't in in the room and Andrew was playing Starcraft.
"And...that's a GG. Koreans are as good as advertised." He said to the camera hooked up. "Well, that's three matches. None that have been good to show." He said turning off the camera. He looked at Lauren. "Tatsuki is downstairs, she wanted to take a break from the games. So what's up?"
Lauren looked downcast. "Ichigo said you had a bit of a sad past. Something about a DUI."
Andrew made a nod of understanding. "Alright." After setting up, Andrew leaned back on his chair. "I started racing when I was age 7…it was tough at first balancing everything but it worked out. In order to take the stress off, I turned to video games and starting taking Tae Kwon Do Lessons. I was equally good at both racing and video games. I actually did well in some local tournaments." Andrew closed his eyes. "But my family life was torn apart. I was lucky, my parent's divorce was clean. I still got to see mom and for a little while, life was as normal as it could be. Then…mom's accident. Mom had drinking problems after the divorce, but she sobered up and was doing her best to be a good mom. She was coming home from work, when a guy ran into her head on. She died on impact. I was devastated and I withdrew into myself. Seeing your mom in a coffin and being the autistic I was, I almost lost my motivation to race. But racing was one of my escapes from reality. If I wasn't racing, I was gaming, if I wasn't gaming I was studying. For a few months, I turned into this recluse. Nothing, not even victories or promotions made me happy."
"What changed?"
Andrew looked up and smiled. "I guess, my stepmother, Katherine. She saw me, and she wanted me to open up. Little by little, she did. Bless her heart, she tried her hardest. I think I made her cry at the wedding when I called her mom."
Lauren was wide eyed. "Wow." She then looked at the computer. "So, you think we can get a game of you playing?"
Andrew nodded and turned on the camera and adjusted it as they changed the camera angle. "Hello my fellow Race Fans, It is GarnetOsprey1991 aka Andrew Michaels. Now normally, its just me and a camera. But if you look over my shoulder, we got ourselves a camera crew from ESPN."
Lauren waved. "They want to know what I do. So think of this as a tutorial game. So let's get started I am loaded in and it is Zerg. So what that means is each player chooses one of three races, which means you play completely differently for each race and for each match-up. With Terran vs. Zerg, it's a race to get the upgrades faster. Zerg can't build their units outside of a Hatchery but they can produce them fast. Zerg rush gets its name from a viable strategy in the game, we call cheese or rushes."
The next twenty minutes was playing and explaining what was going to the reporter and what each unit did. It ended when Andrew pushed forward with Tanks and Marines on the natural base after finishing off several Mutalisks and Roaches and forced the opponent to GG after they broke through to the base.
"And that is all there is to it." Andrew said. "I know it's can be pretty fast paced. But it's fun. I've been thinking off starting an Esports team but I need to work out some logistics. But whatever. Hope that satisfied ya."
Lauren nodded a little dazed and after a few more questions left the room. Andrew sighed. "I guess I need a break." He said logging off and heading downstairs.
Thursday September 23rd
The next several days passed quickly. The ESPN crew had gotten their money's worth when it came to watching the team and their interactions. The day after Ichigo and Andrew's story, they went to the Kurosaki Headquarters to get an idea of how Isshin and Ryuken worked outside of racing. Then that Friday, they went to the gym to show that despite being on the road a lot, they stayed in shape. On Saturday, they sat with Chad and Uryuu to talk about their lives and contributions then took a walk around town. Sunday, they were able to talk with the twins and watched the family interact with each other. Monday, they went to the garage to see the cars being built and adjusted, along with talking with the crew." Tuesday, they came full circle as they packed up and loaded up the plane. The next day they were off to South Africa and had touched down after a 12 hour flight.
When they stepped off the plane, the first thing they felt was the heat and the staleness of the air. South Africa's infrastructure was miles behind the likes of Tokyo and New York and they were affected by the Glacial Floods. But unlike those two cities, they did not contain the majority of countries' populations, less than 10% for Tokyo and about 5% for New York. When the floods came, the majority evacuated from the coasts. The refugees fled inland to countries like the Congo and Kenya which led to even more conflicts which were already bad enough. It was this humanitarian crisis that snapped the economic leaders into action and started its path to cleaning up the planet. Like with most of the islands of the world, the waters receded and recovery began, with some being spared most of the damage and some still being repaired. But in countries like South Africa the damage was done. Johannesburg already at about 15 million, swelled to 25 million as cities like Cape Town and Port Elizabeth were inundated and submerged. This led to large urban sprawl into the neighboring states and the infrastructure was strained to its limits.
Ichigo took a breath and coughed. "Good kami, the air sucks. I can practically taste the horrible smells.
Orihime covered her mouth. "When they said the air sucks, they weren't kidding."
They heard wheezing and turned to Andrew. "Whoever the greedy…bastards that got this race, I want to punch him." Andrew had something in his hand. It was an inhaler. "Great…I am going to need Dr. Unohana…to clear me." He brought it up and took a puff of medicine.
Isshin came in. "I'll also have one of our crew on standby, Shinji more than likely. Anyway, they determined that while the air quality is poor, the race should not be hampered."
The crew nodded. Isshin looked at Andrew. "Stay inside as much as possible. Keep taking your medicine. We'll have Dr. Unohana check you out. But I think you will be fine."
Andrew nodded and walked back inside. Isshin sighed and looked at Orihime's camera. "As expected, South Africa's infrastructure is atrocious. I am surprised that we could hold it here, much less get fans down here. By comparison, China and India are much better."
The crew spent a day setting up their gear and staying out of the air. In the plane, Dr. Unohana came in to check on Andrew. "Your lungs look fine enough to keep racing." She said taking the stethoscope away. "Just keep taking your medicine."
"Thanks Doc." Andrew said coughing.
Retsu turned to Tatsuki. "Keep giving him water, and make sure your room is ventilated. He should be fine once we leave."
Tatsuki nodded and rubbed Andrew's back as they relaxed from the day's long trip.
Next Day (Qualifying)
The air had become very humid. The weather had called for humidity and possible showers all weekend, which made the group miserable as it made the air heavier. Despite the humidity, there were still some fans there.
Ichigo was strapping in for his qualifying session. It was the second one out, with Alexandra having the fastest time at the moment. One last look at Orihime and he fired up his engine to take his warm-up lap.
Orihime walked to the garage and took some shots of the garage facilities. Like some of the tracks they had gone to in Europe, they were forced to share pits and garages. Ichigo and Andrew were going to be in one, while Uryuu and Chad would be in the other.
"Well hello there, princess." A familiar snide voice sounded. Orihime gulped and turned to see Grimmjow walking up to her.
"Can I help you, Jaegerjaquez-san?" Orihime said calmly, but inside she was panicking. Where was Tatsuki and Andrew and the others?
"Grimmjow back off." Relief filled Orihime as she heard one of them. It was Andrew who stormed up to him. "Did that pea brain of yours forget that you had to stay away from our team? That includes our girlfriends." Tatsuki had taken her position in front of Orihime.
Grimmjow laughed. "Yeah, well I just wanted to show her a real man. Kurosaki don't deserve a dame like you."
Orihime stepped back. "Please go away."
Grimmjow grinned. "What's wrong, Kurosaki not satisfying you? I can fill you up quickly."
Orihime bristled at the insult and then got a wicked idea. "At least he knows how to use it. Bet all of those girls you seem to be with don't know when you fire it off."
This was a bruise to Grimmjow's ego and Andrew and Tatsuki had to hold their laughter in.
Andrew put on a straight face. "Come on girls, let's not encourage the kitty cat, let's leave him to his catnip."
Grimmjow growled and stomped over to grab Orihime. Andrew grabbed his arm. "Keep your hands off."
"Or what?"
"Or you'll be looking at my fist in your jaw." Ichigo's voice sounded.
Grimmjow tched and left before the officials came over. Orihime looked up to Ichigo. "Thanks Ichigo. How did you qualify?"
Ichigo shook his head. "Not good. Can't win them all. Chad's out on the track and Andrew is due up in the next session. So maybe it was just me."
"If you struggled, then I am not going to like it either. When I raced in NASCAR, I hated Martinsville and Richmond because of how tight and flat the tracks were, couldn't really get up to the speed I wanted and couldn't move around. Oddly, Bristol was fine." He said as he walked towards his car.
"Guess a driver can't like every track." Tatsuki said as they headed back to the garage.
When Andrew took the track in the fourth session, he struggled mightily as he had a tight race car throughout the session and he nearly spun off into the dirt. Once he finished, he was ranked 19th, not his best effort of the year. When qualifying ended, it was the Ferrari of Jessica Rosburg that had the pole, while the three point leaders, Ichigo, Andrew and Brian were stuck in the back. They had a lot of ground to make up in the race.
Starting Line-Up: South Africa
1. Jessica Rosburg
2. Shawn Newman
3. Ralph Dillon
4. Alexandra Edwards
5. Uryuu Ishida
6. Tier Harribel
7. Kira Izuru
8. Flippe Massa III
9. Serenity Gordon
10. Soi Fong
11. Jason Vettal
12. Robert Johnson
13. Michael Kennseth
14. Ulquiorra Cifer
15. Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez
16. Michael Bush
17. Archie Stewart
18. Chad Yasotora
19. Patricia Stenhouse
20. Rebecca Kirkland
21. Brian Mcnish
22. Andrew Michaels
23. Bjorn Kristensen
24. Francesca Alonso
25. Renji Abarai
26. Ichigo Kurosaki '
27. Raoul Garcia
28. Maria Robertson
29. Marcus Andretti
30. Dale Earnhardt IV
31. Ralph Hamilton
32. George Schumacher
33. Allen Regan
34. Ikkaku Mandarame
35. Gin Ichimaru
36. Jason Webber
Sunday September 25th
Andrew woke up and took a deep breath. He then started coughing. "Damn it. I hate this." He got up and started scratching his throat. (A/N: I have had asthma, still do to an extent. Scratching my throat is a tell-tale sign I am having a problem). He walked to the bathroom and grabbed his inhaler. Taking two puff, his breathing started to return to normal.
"Ugh…stupid asthma, stupid stale air. Sooner we get this done, sooner I can get cleaner air."
He felt a pair of arms wrap around his chest.
"Hey. How are you feeling?" Tatsuki said leaning onto his back.
"I've been better. Dr. Unohana gave me the clearance to race, but Shinji is on standby." He popped an allergy pill in. "That should help somewhat."
Tatsuki nodded. "Just be careful alright." She reached up on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek. "Want to join me in the shower?"
Andrew nodded and the couple enjoyed washing each other. After the shower, they went to get changed. Andrew grabbed his music player and selected a song to play.
(Start playing New Year's Day By U2)
Andrew started zipping up his suit making sure its comfortable especially around his chest. Another cough to clear out some phlegm. He turned around to see Tatsuki finishing up her suit. She showed some concern in her face, but Andrew gave her a smile to reassure her.
Ichigo was walking out with Orihime at his side. She looked at her boyfriend to see him in a serious mood. Ichigo turned to face her and put on a smile to reassure her.
Chad was walking in the drizzle while holding an umbrella out for Isane as he escorted her to the nurse's station. Saying their farewells, he gave her kiss and headed towards the garage, with the silver haired nurse watching with a blush.
Uryuu was walking next to Nemu as she stuck close to the dark haired driver under his umbrella. She was shy from all of the observers on them but a gentle hug reassured her.
In the Souske plane, Aizen was sitting down and making some notes. He then packed up and barked some orders to his subordinates.
Around the track, despite where the race was and the limited capacity, there were still a lot of fans. The humid air though made many at the track uncomfortable but they persevered.
In the booths, the various T.V crews were going over their scripts and looking at various shots on camera in house. On track, the crews were taking care to cover their gear as the humidity could mess with the equipment.
In the driver's meeting, Yammamato finished by reiterating that their behavior is always being watched, with several incidents of conduct being reported especially the Souske and Audi team. He dismissed them with that warning and left to get ready to monitor the race.
(End Previous song play Magnificent by U2: Instrumental version)
As the world was consumed by the waters, many countries that had their populations near the coast forced inland. Many cities became inundated, lost for intents and purposes and their citizens became refugees. One such country was South Africa. Once considered the epitome of the African economy, the floodwaters brought the country to brink of devastation and those who did not flee the country came to Johannesburg. The city became a symbol of what happens to a country that once loved on the coast and what happens when a country sinks beneath the waves.
Now the city that shocked the world with its refugees, is shocking the world again as they become the symbol of rebirth. A rebirth of a country that have the lowest of lows. A rebirth of wildlife within its borders and a rebirth that signaled the world that a country can be rebuilt if they come together.
To celebrate this rebirth, the Grand Prix makes its first trip to South Africa in nearly a century. A country that has suffered much is welcoming the world to see their progress again.
But with its welcoming committee, comes a whispering of conflict. The Kurosaki team has been dominating all year in the team points, and the two charismatic drivers Ichigo Kurosaki and Andrew Michaels are keeping the field away from prize. These rookies are hanging tough and if they can hold on for six more races, they will be champions.
(Begin guitar solo)
But within the tight turns, something is about to break through. Something that may change the course of the season. Something…Magnificent
(Chorus plays as the track is superimposed.)
Welcome. To South Africa."
(Fox intro plays as they pan over a foggy track.)
Jeremy: The fog may be clearing now, but with the races that are left, it's still unclear who will win the championship.
(Pans to the booth)
Jeremy: We welcome you to Kylami outside Johannesburg, South Africa. And more importantly welcome to Round 20 of the World Grand Prix. Normally this would be the last race or the second to last race. But with the 50th anniversary of the World Grand Prix it just means we have five more rounds after this. Nate, what does it do to the psyche of some of these drivers that the season is not over?
Nate: I think that would make them mentally exhausted. They might make some mistakes that they wouldn't make normally. However, those coming from the American tiers, like Hendrick and Stewart-Haas might see this as more difficult schedule then the ones they used to run. They ran 36 races in 40 weeks. But 25 races all around the world can certainly take their toll on every one.
Jeremy: It is really something to see these drivers tough it out every week. Speaking of tough, we were at the very fast Monza Raceway.
(Begin Recap montage)
Nate: With the pope blessing the race, the cars sped off the moment the green flag dropped. Speeds were breaking 215 MPH as they battled through the Italian countryside. Throughout most of the race, it was the Souske 06 and 04, the Ferrari 11 and Kurosaki 32 and 66 that were battling for the lead.
Jeremy: (Shifts to the 91) With all of the gear shifting, it was expected some of the drivers might encounter some gearbox issues and it did hit some people. Like our point leader going into the race, he came into the pits and when he tried to get going, the car would not get in gear. And he was understandably furious in the garage as he was not his normal chipper self, as we see him storm off from his car.
Nate: Meanwhile back on the track, the battles came down to a pair of slow stops by the Souske team and then a fight with Kurosaki Hondas eventually led to the Ferrari of George Schumacher winning much to the delight of the fans. As we see the points standings, (See end of the last chapter) Ichigo Kurosaki and Andrew Michael swapped positions but they are really close together along with Brian Mcnish. But one mistake and people like Serenity Gordon close that gap in an instant.
Jeremy: We have a great crew of international reporters. First up is our Jermaine Ferguson who is with the guy who is in second in the points and had a rough week last week. Jermaine?
Jermaine: Thank you Jeremy. Andrew you seem to be in a bit of a rough patch. Care to elaborate?
Andrew: Well I can honestly say I am human. And I can get angry as well. I was having a very stressful week or so. I got it taken care of. I still have supporters in the garage and in the team and I apologize to any fans that might have caught my outburst.
Jermaine: So what about your confrontation with Mr. Jaegerjaquez?
Andrew: (Shakes Head) He needs to keep his playboy antics away from our girlfriends. Not just my girl, but all of the team's, Uryuu, Chad and especially Ichigo. He's been looking for trouble and one of these days, this nice guy ain't going to be nice.
Jermaine: Sounds very fiery. He starts 22nd. Now onto Kiyone who is with the winner from Italy.
Kiyone: Thank you Jermaine. George, you were the beneficiary of the intense rivalry between Souske and Kurosaki. How did it feel to win on the Ferrari's home track?
George: It felt great to do that, it gives me a lot of confidence for the final six races. We may be a ways off but we still have a shot at winning this.
Kiyone: Your starting in 32nd you think that will impact your performance here?"
George: Maybe, Maybe not. The track reminds me of Sochi and the old Singapore track. One mistake and we could end up in the wall or in the sand. But I guess we'll figure it out as the race progresses.
Kiyone: As he said he starts in 32nd. Back to the studios.
After all of the pomp and ceremony, everyone strapped into their cars. Up with the Sosuke cars, Aizen gave final orders to team.
"Wreck anyone in your way. The sands will devour any cars caught in it."
On the ninth position on the grid, Serenity let out a big breath. She was feeling the pressure of being behind in the points and she had to relax. In her head, a win here will hopefully create the momentum for a late season push.
Further back on the grid, Ichigo was sitting back and twisted his neck to pop it. "Alright. Let's make this our race.
"NOW FOR THE MOST FAMOUS WORDS IN RACING! DRIVERS. START. YOUR. ENGINES!
The rain did not drown out the roar of the engines. The drizzle and the humidity didn't dampen the crowds either.
Japan Booth
Kommamura: The engines are fired up and ready to go here at Kyalami raceway.
Jushiro: Race facts. This is going to be 140 laps over the slight above 2.5 Mile course making up just over 350 miles. The course is wet and expect the intermediates and the softer tires to be the order of the day.
Kommamura: Fuel strategy is a must, the last pit window will be past 110 laps. Look for a lot gambling near the end of the race.
Jushiro: It is very tight. It reminds one of the old Singapore Street Circuit. Passing will be a premium. And the weather will play a factor, it will keep the speed down.
Kommamura: Let's talk to one of the drivers.
Jushiro: Let's try our pole sitter. Ms. Rosburg. This is Jushiro Ukitake can you hear me?"
"Loud and clear. What's up?"
"Your team just came off a win last week at Monza. What's your mind heading into the last few races of the season?
"Well, I may not be in contention, but it doesn't mean I won't help Ferrari stay in top tier. Helping out George get to the title will be an added bonus."
"Alright then, hope you have a good race."
After the three warm-up laps, the green flag flew and the race got under way. As they went through the first couple of turns, the tightness of the course became evident as sever got into the dirt and kicked up the wet sand. This resulted in some cars slipping and spinning out. Out of turn 5 they sped down to the hairpin and slowed down to get through the turn. The pack sped up again to get through the next set of turn and then they practically had to slam on the brakes to get through a small chicane before heading down to the pit stretch.
American Booth
Jeremy: Lap 1 in the books, a lot of slipping and sliding. The track's is damp at the moment.
Nate: They are on Medium white tires and their options are the red super soft compounds. They will be busting out the intermediates before too long.
After the initial laps, the drivers began to get used to the track and started battling each other. It was this battling that led to the first lead change as Ralph Dillion show shades of Dale Earnhardt and nearly shoved Jessica into the sands.
Japan Booth
Jushiro: It may be wet, but the tempers are steal red hot.
Kommamura: Note to self this is not how you drive in the rain. These drivers are risking their cars and their lives to drive in this weather.
After a few laps, the first retirement of the race occurred when Rebecca punctured her radiator due to some of the racks that were kicked up. The first round of pit stops came around lap 23 as Michael Busch had started pulling away and began lapping the field.
The weather had stayed a light drizzle, allowing the drivers to stay on the medium tires. On lap 48, the race changed on its ear and so did the points race.
Heading into turn 4, Marcus Andretti was battling Jason Vettal. As Vettal moved to take the spot he suddenly felt something break in the car. When he slowed down, Marcus ran into him and turned him around. As he spun clipped Hamilton and tore the side out. In an effort to check, Brian Mcnish couldn't slow down fast enough and spun and tagged Vettal in the sand.
American Booth
Jeremy: As we get ready for pit stops, Michael Busch is leading by about 4 seconds…and we have trouble in turn 4.
Nate: It's the 51 of Andretti and the Red Bull of Vettal. And Hamilton has a lot of damage. And oh boy its Mcnish.
Jeremy: That's going to hurt him in the point standings as we take a look at the replays. (Replays are shown) Looks like something broke as Vettal was passing Andretti and collected the Viper. As he's spinning around he gets clipped by Hamilton and then Mcnish can't slow down fast enough and plows into the 51.
Nate: This is playing right into the pit strategy of everyone as they prepare to come in to make their stops. With the way the pits are, several cars will have to stay out for an extra lap.
In the two lead Kurosaki cars, Andrew was debating with Ichigo.
"You go first. I can go another lap." Andrew said.
"You sure?"
"Yeah. Just go"
Andrew sighed as he trailed behind the pace car. "So with Mcnish out, do we have a cushion between us and third."
"Its going to depend on where you two finish. Just keep racing your race." Kisuke said as Andrew came back around to do his stop.
In Ichigo's cockpit, Isshin was discussing the changes they went through.
"You should be good grip wise. But Busch has been dominating all day."
"Let's see what we can do." Ichigo said as the one to go signal was given.
Once the green flag dropped, the race spread out again and Andrew and Ichigo were 8th and 10th respectively. Two laps later, Flippe Massa bowed out due to a power steering leak. The dust and the mud evidentially becoming a larger factor to the race overall.
The race calmed down with Busch leading the race again. This continued as third round of stops occurred.
In the middle of the cycle, Andrew was preparing to come down pit road, when he felt his car get loose.
"Oh crud!" He was near the slow chicane and he overcorrected on a large puddle and he was sent into the barriers.
Andrew shook his head as he recovered. The driver's side was against the barrier.
"Andrew! Are you alright?"
"Yeah, I-OH FUCK!" He yelled as a car was sent careening into him."
Seconds earlier, Ichigo was battling Soi Fong coming out of the hairpin. As she made a move to get in front of Ichigo, her rear end clipped Ichigo's car. Ichigo spun and hit the other side of the wall, but Soi Fong's rear lifted up and danced across the sand and slammed into the stationary 91.
Japan Booth
Jushiro: Michael Busch just pitted and Ralph Dillion assumes the lead and we have one car in the wall at turn 11.
Kommamura: It's the 91 in the barrier and (002 crashes into him) GOOD KAMI! What a horrific wreck!
Jushiro: That 002 is totaled and the 91 is torn up. That was a lot of energy. We can only hope they are okay. (Pans to the 15.) And that's the point leader Ichigo Kurosaki, in the wall on the other side. (Pans back to the 91 and sees Andrew somehow climbing out.) I don't believe it Andrew is out of the car, with the medical crew coming to his aid. He seems more concerned about Soi Fong. The net is thankfully down for both cars.
Andrew was feeling some pain, but he didn't feel anything broken. Climbing out of the car he looked and widened his eyes at the car number.
"No Shaolin." He whispered said running over to car. The net was down, which was some relief to him.
"Shaolin are you alright?" Andrew yelled.
Shaolin moaned and looked and saw Andrew's face in the window. "I'm fine. But damn, I think I'll be sore for a while."
Andrew sighed and laughed. "I think Tatsuki is going to get grey hair."
Shaolin giggled. "Yeah. You think you can help me unhook."
Andrew nodded and did so. After a couple of minutes of fumbling all of the equipment was removed and Andrew slowly pulled her under five foot frame out."
"Think you can walk?"
Shaolin nodded and they walked to the ambulance where Ichigo was already in it.
"Andrew, Shaolin you guys alright?"
"We've been better." Shaolin said. "But, I thank you for your concern."
"We're friends Shaolin. That's what they do."
Shaolin smiled as they rode to the infield care center.
Kurosaki pits (At Time of the wreck)
Tatsuki watch Andrew wreck and groaned. "Man he's going to be feeling that-" Whatever she was going to say was cut off as Shaolin barreled into Andrew at more than 120 MPH.
Tatsuki was horrified and almost cationic. She gripped her cross and closed her eyes. "Both of you be okay. Please be okay. Please be okay.
Tatsuki hesitantly looked up and almost started crying to see Andrew climb out of the car. And then she was turning on the waterworks with both of them walking towards the ambulance.
Isshin looked Tatsuki. "Go. Orihime can cover the cameras."
Tatsuki nodded and ran to the infield care center. The ESPN crew stayed put to observe the reactions of the crew. The hard hit definitely shook up the crew.
Tatsuki found the care center and observed Byakuya walking towards it.
"Kuchiki-sama!"
The stoic man turned. "Arisawa-san, you're here to see Andrew correct? Let us hope they are okay."
Tatsuki nodded and they both entered. They saw Ichigo up and moving around. "They just took them into X-rays. They don't think anything is broken."
Tatsuki nodded and nervously waited. A few minutes later, Retsu appeared. "Both drivers are surprisingly okay but are incredibly sore. That hit should have given them a concussion but it didn't. All of these safety precautions did their jobs." The relief on everyone's faces was apparent and Tatsuki collapsed onto the floor.
"Are they okay for visitors?" Byakuya said.
Retsu nodded and escorted them in. Shaolin and Andrew were on separate beds, that didn't stop them from laughing at a joke Andrew made.
"Man. There must be something watching over you." Ichigo said.
Andrew nodded. "Its insane how my luck is." He turned to Tatsuki whose eyes were hidden behind her hair. "Tatsuki?"
SLAP SLAP
The two slaps were in such quick succession that Ichigo and Byakuya didn't see the slaps until they saw Tatsuki breathing heavily. Retsu was about to reprimand her but the look on her face told the doctor to wait it out.
"Ow…Tatsuki-chan that hurt." Andrew said rubbing his face.
"Good! Because you deserved it for scaring me!" Tatsuki yelled. "You sit here laughing and making jokes when you could be on a ventilator or worse in the morgue!"
Tatsuki turned around. "And the worst part is you two don't even care how your reckless stunts could hurt those watching you put your lives on the line. That wreck could have killed you both yet you laugh it off like it was nothing."
Tatsuki started sniffling and tears started to pool in her eyes. "You don't know what these wrecks do to me. I have to stand there and watch while you get sent to the hospital."
Tatsuki was now openly crying. The three watchers had left to give them space, and to talk to the reporters. Tatsuki felt familiar arms wrap around her and felt Andrew's chin on her head. Looking at the two, it was easy to see how much Andrew towered over Tatsuki's 5'1 frame.
"I know I risk my life. I've been risking my neck for as long as I've been racing. Me and Shaolin have long known the risks. But that wreck, it was something else. We laugh about it because that's how we cope."
Tatsuki wanted to break free, she really did. But she could not find the will to break free.
"Please let go of me." She said with no heat still crying.
Andrew turned her around and hugged her close. "Do you want to know what I saw in those seconds before impact? I saw my life up to this point and you were the last image I saw." He chuckled softly. "It would have been a nice image to go out on."
Tatsuki couldn't meet his eyes. "You're a reckless fool. But your my reckless fool." She said. She turned to Shaolin who was watching the drama. "Both of you."
Shaolin smiled. "I didn't expect you to be so open with me like this." She said climbing out of the bed.
Tatsuki said nothing and took the smaller girl into the embrace. "Just don't…leave me please."
Shaolin said nothing as the embrace continued.
"Shaolin?" Byakuya's voice broke the three apart and cause them to blush.
Byakuya had a ghost of smile on his face. "The media is waiting on you. I've held them off for a while. The race is about 85 laps in."
Byakuya turned and stopped. "I don't mind if you…stay at the Kurosaki manor for a few days. I'll send some stuff over."
The three looked at each other and smiled. They headed out of the medical center with Tatsuki trailing behind them.
The reporters were about ready to hound them but Kiyone pushed through and approached both drivers. Waiting for the cue she turned to Andrew. "Thanks, Jushiro. Andrew, Soi Fong. First off, we are so glad your okay."
Andrew: Yeah we are. Just shaken up. The wreck was intense. I mean, when you have a car going towards you and you're at a dead stop. It can be scary. Whoever designed the cars for both Kuchiki and Kurosaki, should be commended, everything did its job to protect us. And if the doctor clears us we'll be in Shanghai next time."
Kiyone: Such confidence after walking away from this wreck. Soi Fong, again glad your okay, what happened in your mind.
Soi Fong: I was racing hard and trying to get around the 15 and I guess I miss timed it and clipped it and sent me into the air and I slammed into Andrew. I was dazed and slightly out of it but surprisingly I didn't have a concussion. My body though will be really sore tomorrow. I thank whoever was watching out over us that we can talk to you all and thanks to whoever designed our cars.
Kiyone: Two very happy to be alive drivers. Thanks to the safety precautions and some divine intervention. Back to you Jushiro.
The reporters broke away and the threesome headed to the plane. When they were far enough, Tatsuki and Shaolin grabbed Andrew's arms and walked arm in arm to some much needed rest.
Back on track the clean-up had finished up and multiple cars came for service. On lap 88 the field went back to green with Ralph Dillon in front.
American Booth
Jeremy: After the clean up of that horrifying wreck, we are back racing Ralph Dillon on point.
Nate: I still can't believe Andrew and Soi Fong got out of their cars and were able to talk to the reporters after it.
Jeremy: The safety procedures did its job. They will be feeling that for a while but we can expect them in Shanghai.
Back in the race, it was more subdued after the terrifying wreck. But that seemed to melt away as Busch and the two lead Souske cars made their moves for the front. Busch eventually took the lead on lap 96 and pulled away slightly before Jessica Rosburg blowing an engine on lap 100 forced the drivers and crew chiefs to make a decision on their supposedly last pit stop.
Japan Booth
Kommamura: Lap 102, pit road is open, what is going through their minds right now are there going to be any takers on pit road.
Jushiro: I would think most of the front runners would come in and hopefully make this their final stop as we see them come down the line. Kiyone?
Kiyone: Grimmjow is complaining of a tight car, he will go up on the wedge and pack the cell with as much as fuel as allowed. Meanwhile Michael Busch says no changes and will go onto the medium tires.
The cars sped out with Michael Busch retaining the lead. During the exchange another car went behind the wall as Allen Regan punctured his radiator as well.
In ninth place Serenity was talking with her crew chief.
"James how are we looking on fuel."
"…We might be two laps short. What are we going to do? Stay out or come in."
Serenity thought long and hard about this. Was she willing to give up track position to go the distance or stay and risk not making it to the end?
They stayed under caution for another lap. They would be getting the one to go signal the next time by.
"Serenity we need to choose now!"
Serenity thought back forth as she rounded the track. As she got closer to the pit entrance, she made her choice as the front runners past the entrance.
"Get the fuel out!"
"Roger."
Serenity darted down pit road and three others did so as well.
American Booth
Jeremy: Champion is coming in. Probably to top off.
Nate: She was in 9th place. I think she made the right call. The yellow flag to green flag ratio is about two green flag laps for every yellow.
The race resumed on lap 105 and the front runners were confident in their fuel run. On lap 113 Grimmjow took the lead back temporarily but gave it up to Busch on lap 116. As the laps wore down the crew chiefs were cranking out numbers and asking their drivers to save as much as they could. Serenity was one of those not saving fuel because they believed she had enough. On lap 137, she was in fifth place and in position to watch the fireworks.
American Booth
Jeremy: Three laps to go, can the front runners get to the end? Three cars are already down pit road and Michael Busch is weaving. He's Out of gas!
Nate: In the worse spot possible, past pit road. A tough break for the 18 who was having a great day.
Jeremy: That puts Ulquiorra in the lead, Grimmjow came in from 7th. Serenity is second, she is charging hard, they think they have enough to get to the end.
Ulquiorra was still attempting to save fuel, he was 15 seconds ahead of Serenity. At the rate she was closing, he had a good chance to get to the end before she caught up.
The pale Souske driver took the white flag with a four second lead. He got through the first several turns okay but coming off the hairpin, the engine began to cut out.
"No. No. NO!" Ulquiorra shout trying to get the fuel to pick up to no avail as he began to coast down the straight to the chicane.
Japan booth
Kommamura: Out of turn 10, Ulquiorra is off the pace.
Jushiro: He's out.
Kommamura: He's out of gas, Serenity Gordon passes him and takes the lead. Out of the last turn, Serenity comes down the front stretch, the only lap she leads is the most important one, she wins in South Africa.
Serenity let out a large cheer as she drove across the line. She had enough fuel to do the victory lap and the burnout before she had to be pushed to victory lane. With the points she earned, she vaulted into 3rd in the points. But she could worry about the points later, she had a race to celebrate.
Five rounds left. Souske's plans are getting more and more desperate, the standings are tight and tensions are high. What will happen in Shanghai? Find out next time.
Finish Order: South Africa
1. Serenity Gordon, Hendrick 37 points 1 lap led
2. Alexandra Edwards, Rousch 35 points
3. Ulquiorra Cifer, Souske 35 points 9 laps led
4. Jason Webber, Red Bull 33 points
5. Michael Kennseth, Rousch 32 points
6. Francesca Alonso, Ferrari 31 points
7. Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez, Souske 31 points 7 laps led
8. Patricia Stenhouse, Rousch 29 points
9. Robert Johnson, Hendrick 28 points
10. Ikkaku Madarame, Kuchiki 27 points
11. Uryuu Ishida, Kurosaki 26 points
12. Chad Yasotora, Kurosaki 25 points
13. Ralph Dillon, Hendrick 25 points 22 laps led
14. Renji Abarai, Kuchiki 23 points
15. George Schumacher, Ferrari 22 points
16. Shawn Newman, Stewart-Haas 21 points
17. Tier Harribel, Souske 20 points
18. Archie Stewart, Stewart-Haas 19 points
19. Raoul Garcia, Audi 18 points
20. Michael Bush, Stewart-Haas 21 points 1 lap down 93 laps led
21. Dale Earnhardt IV Hendrick 16 points 1 lap down
22. Maria Robertson, Ferrari 15points 1 lap down
23. Bjorn Kristensen, Audi 14 points 2 laps down
24. Gin Ichimaru, Souske 13 points 3 laps down
25. Kira Izuru, Kuchiki 12 points Out
26. Allen Regan, Rousch 11 points Out
27. Jessica Rosburg, Ferrari 11 points 8 laps led Out
28. Ichigo Kurosaki, Kurosaki 9 points Out
29. Andrew Michaels Kurosaki,8 points Out
30. Soi Fong, Kuchiki 7 points Out
31. Flippe Massa III, Red Bull 6 points Out
32. Marcus Andretti, Stewart-Haas 5 points Out
33. Ralph Hamilton, Red Bull 4 points Out
34. Brian Mcnish, Audi 3 points Out
35. Jason Vettal, Red Bull 2 points Out
36. Rebecca Kirkland, Audi 1 point Out
Drivers names Team Points
Ichigo Kurosaki Kurosaki 525
Andrew Michaels Kurosaki 523
Serenity Gordon Hendrick 518
Brian Mcnish Audi 517
Ulquiorra Cifer Souske 482
Chad Yasotora Kurosaki 476
George Schumacher Ferrari 472
Uryuu Ishida Kurosaki 454
Gin Ichimaru Souske 452 A
rchie Stewart Stewart-Haas 448
Soi Fong Kuchiki 441
Kira Izuru Kuchiki 440
Grimmjow Jaegerjaquez Souske 432
Tier Harribel Souske 420
Ralph Dillon Hendrick 394
Renji Abarai Kuchiki 389
Patricia Stenhouse Rousch 389
Michael Kennseth Rousch 389
Ralph Hamilton Red Bull 384
Maria Robertson Ferrari 370
Jason Webber Red Bull 357
Robert Johnson Hendrick 350
Fransesca Alonso Ferrari 350
Rebecca Kirkland Audi 339
Alexandra Edwards Rousch 336
Ikkaku Mandarame Kuchiki 335
Michael Busch Stewart-Haas 333
Marcus Andretti Stewart-Haas 311
Raoul Garcia Audi 308
Bjorn Kristensen Audi 305
Jessica Rosburg Ferrari 303
Jason Vettal Red Bull 299
Dale Earnhardt IV Hendrick 294
Flippe Massa III Red Bull 284
Allen Regan Rousch 266
Shawn Newman Stewart-Haas 261
Team Names Combined points
Kurosaki-Ishida 1978
Souske 1786
Kuchiki 1607
Hendrick 1556
Ferrari 1495
Audi 1469
Rousch 1380
Stewart-Haas 1351
Red Bull 1324
END OF Chapter
UO: God Damn IT! I wanted this out last week! Pure Laziness and helping other authors out is to blame
New Tracks
Kyalami: A track in South Africa. A small track by F1 Standards and rarely used by international series
Preview
As the Grand Prix winds down, the Grand Prix heads to Shanghai. Tensions mount as the various teams work out ways to ge their top ranked driver to the front at the expense of the Kurosaki team. With all of this confusion, Aizen makes his final preparations in his attempts to topple Kurosaki. What will happen? Find out next time
Next time: Chinese Civil War
Next up is Journeys
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