[color=gold][center][h1][i][b]Valkyrie AGR Team Headquarters[/b][/i][/h1][/center][/color]
[color=gold][center][h2][i][b]Wednesday  March 8th, 2094[/b][/i][/h2][/center][/color]

[b]Soundtrack: [url= https://youtu.be/GxPcu7F7gWg?feature=shared]Ain’t Got Far To Go - Jesse Glynne[/url][/b]

[hr]

Alexander’s first day in the office had been eventful and long. He had spent most of the day dealing with rats within the organization seeking power and profit for their own end. Alexander knew that so far he had caught the ones who were not that smart. He had caught the people who wanted power and didn’t know how to hold onto it. They lost the power as quickly as they managed to seize it. He knew anyone working against him from this point on would have to work in the shadows since he had taken away their mouth pieces and puppets. Any adversaries left within the organization would be intelligent and playing for high stakes. 

He had been appalled that such a large organization as Valkyrie AGR Sport, who should have been a shining example of professionalism and culture, had sunk to such lows. The organization was built on the culture of racing teams such as Ferrari who were infamous for quality and integrity. At the end of Tuesday, numerous high-ranking openings within the Valkyrie organization had opened up and one board member had been replaced. Many employees were given promotions. Strangely enough for a racing team the two departments most impacted had been Human Resources and Security. 

It had been late into evening before Alexander had finally finished cleaning house at Valkyrie AGR Sport. Alexander felt as if he walked in the door and kicked a hornets nest. He had spent an hour giving a formal statement to the authorities about Dr. Zimmerman’s incident. Maier and Guyon had been escorted from the building after Wulfric had personally locked down all their files, access, and offices after searching them and everything they took with them. He even ran the man’s briefcase and her purse through an x ray machine and used an EM reader to detect any hidden technology. Wulfric’s last report was that he was still investigating everything that happened on Tuesday. 

This morning the atmosphere at Valkyrie was mixed. Some of the staff who had been privy to Tuesday’s events were convinced this would be Valkyrie’s best season ever. Those who had not witnessed the various confrontations that had happened were nervous and feeling unsettled. The atmosphere at Valkyrie was tense with an impending sense of action, that life altering changes were about to happen and they didn’t know if it would be good or bad. 

Alexander was already on his third cup of coffee this morning. He had been up early so that he could talk to his daughter and check on how she was doing. He was in a great mood after talking with Arianna this morning. He had relaxed hearing the normality in his daughter’s tone as she assured she was going to be fine and was making great progress. He now knew for sure she was going to be okay and that helped him focus on what he needed to do. That had started his day off right. He smiled and nodded cordially to all those who crossed his path as he walked from his apartment and into the main building. He was going to meet Mabel for breakfast but she was already hard at work. He should have known she would be ahead of him. She always was. 

[hr]

Mabel was working with the marketing team to ensure the large press conference went well. They were gifting new sample merchandise to the journalists attending. She left the press packets to the marketing team. Mabel worked with security and logistics to ensure the room was set up the way Alexander wanted it. Mabel had learned from Katherine that the large meeting room that Valkyrie used was custom built just for this purpose. The official title of the room was the Media Center. The staff had affectionately named it the Media Pit. Katherine explained to Mabel how the system worked.

The room had black leather tiered seating with chrome accents.  Every seat had a good view of the stage. Built into the stadium style seating in the room was a series of buttons that would show up on the master control board for the room which was located in the staging room on the staff side of the stage. The control booth was essentially a long desk with a monitor screen that almost took up the top half of a whole wall. There were 4 chairs and workstations at the control board. Built-in cameras would allow the operators to see every seat in the room and monitor the action on stage. There was a backup control panel for one person in the back of the media pit on the top tier in the corner. 

Journalists could use the buttons on the arm of the chair to indicate they wanted to ask a question. There was a button that would activate the microphone built into the chair. The microphone would only activate if the person running the control station allowed it. There was an indicator light on the arm of the chair to let the reporter know their mic was live. This allowed Valkyrie to avoid issues where reporters couldn’t be heard. It also allowed them to favor reporters that followed their system and didn’t give them any trouble. Was it censorship? Maybe a little. They could still ask questions but if they misbehaved they were not invited back. Valkyrie didn’t shy away from difficult questions but they wouldn’t tolerate abusive reporters using bullying tactics or those who would not give other reporters a chance to ask questions. It was a sneaky way to allow the public relations people to control the narrative as much as possible.

In the ceiling above the stage recessed lighting and special effects equipment were hidden from view with clever architecture. State of art cameras and recording equipment were installed around the stage. There was a long built-in curved counter-like table built on the front of the low stage. The table had lighting, microphones, cameras, and sound system components built into it. The side facing the audience was solid black with the Valkyrie AGR Sport Logo on the front of it. Behind the table were black and chrome chairs on rollers. There was enough room for 8 people to sit at the table. The stage was wide enough to hold an additional row of chairs and tables behind the front table. Today there was another row of square plush black leather chairs with chrome accents against the back wall of the stage. The walls behind the stage had large holograms one on each side that went through a loop showing the pilots and their ships. Sponsors' logos decorated the remainder of the walls. The flooring was environmentally friendly and sustainable bamboo.

Journalists were given access to a special secured encrypted link that allowed them to access the live footage through Valkyrie’s system. The computer systems for the room had their own network. It was a stand alone system and air gapped for security purposes. The only information on the system was the information recorded in the Media Pit and the operating systems for the room. The room was located to the left side of the main lobby. The entrance to the room was on the other side of the receptionist desk from the security checkpoint. Everyone attending the press conference had to go through the security checkpoint except for staff. They came through the rear secured doors to the right of the stage along the back wall. The journalists and the camera operators were welcome but drones were forbidden by Valkyrie. 

Mabel looked around the room to see if there were any other details that needed her attention. Technicians were double checking cameras, lighting, and sound and making sure all the technology in the room was ready. There was a gift bag sitting on each seat in the arena. Security was keeping a watchful eye on everything ensuring curious reporters stayed in the areas they were supposed to be in. The staging room was ready. The control panel desks already had technicians doing their preliminary checks testing the system. The remainder of the open room had a  large u shaped sofa facing the huge wall screen. In front of the sofa was a black and chrome coffee table with a tray of drinks and snacks on it.This would allow other staff and the board of directors who wanted to watch the press conference a place to do so. It was also a staging area for the people who would be involved in the press conference. Mabel nodded satisfied that the staff had things in hand. Mabel left the remaining preparations to the staff. Mabel went to where her new office was located. Alexander should be getting in soon. She wanted to make sure he didn’t need anything else before the press conference. 

[hr] 

Alexander had just settled into his office chair and was pulling up his list of stuff to do today when Mabel came into his office. Alexander looked up and smiled at his assistant. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Good morning Mabel. How are you doing today?” [/color]

Mabel had a spring in her step and a sparkle of enjoyment in her eyes. She gave Alexander a wicked grin. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “I am great! You know I am glad you took this job. I think I was getting bored. I had the kinks worked out at the engineering firm. It didn’t leave me many challenges. This is what I like to call a target rich environment.” [/color]

Alexander just bowed his head and laughed. He could only guess at the mischief Mabel had decided to get involved with so far. Her entrance at Valkyrie had begun with a bang. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Arianna sends her love. She also said to thank you for the flowering plant.”[/color] 

Alexander’s daughter loved flowers but she didn’t condone cutting flowers to watch them die. Mabel knew that of course. Mabel was a master of observation and discerning what people really like and don’t like. He would always defer to her better taste. 

Mabel smiled with maternal warmth. She was relieved the girl was going to be okay. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “She is going to be a great botanist one day.” [/color]

Alexander just nodded agreeing. He had contacted the college and they were aware of her accident. She will be allowed to repeat her classes for credit. Alexander put on his game face. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Are we ready for the press conference? Anything that needs my attention?”[/color] 

Mabel put her hands on her hips and glared at him. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “I wouldn’t be much of an assistant if you had to micromanage me Alex. Stay in your own lane.” [/color]

Alexander laughed as he raised his hands to indicate defeat. His shoulders moving with his laughter. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander replied dramatically: “I yield!” [/color]

Mabel just chuckled before inclining her head. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “Everything is ready for the press conference. The marketing team has it well in hand and Wulfric is on top of security. You should check your inbox for any last minute updates from him or Leopold before the conference. Dorian and Paul are on campus in the training facility. After yesterday’s chaos, I think everyone is feeling uncertain and unsure where you are leading them. Think about how you are going to address that today.” [/color]

Alexander nodded as he looked thoughtful before replying. 

[color=f6989d]Alexander: “Thanks Mabel. I will see you later.” [/color]

Mabel left his office, shutting the door. He got to work reviewing everything he needed to before the press conference. 

[hr] 


All security staff were wearing black uniforms with combat boots with a lightweight armored vest over their shirts with SECURITY on the back of their vests. They all were armed with taser batons and less lethal options for neutralizing someone. Security had integrated comms with a special communication channel just for them. Most of the security team had been called in and was helping with the press conference. All of the Valkyrie staff were sporting black button up shirts with the company logo on one side of the chest and their name or staff embroidered on the other side. It was a sleek classy look that could be pulled off well by either sex. Valkyrie headquarters was presented as sleek, polished and professional to those attending the press conference. 

To journalists who had been there before, they picked up on some tension and an air of anticipation from the staff if they knew what to look for. A lot of journalists had stopped outside the iconic space age looking building to set up their b-roll and introductions to the press conference. Technology might have improved but audiences could still spot authenticity and preferred real images over CGI AI generator filler. A few enterprising journalists might seek to try and interview some of Valkyrie’s staff. All of them were under strict non-disclosure agreements though. They could share their personal opinions but were not allowed to discuss company business or technology. Interviews with staff tended to be opinions and very vague on details which was as it should be. There were always a few journalists who tried to get an employee to slip up and spill dirt on the team. 

The Media Pit was packed with journalists. The noise level was almost deafening in the sound proofed room with good acoustics. It was almost time and most of them were in their seats chatting with those around them. Videographers and photographers who wanted their own images were set up from where they were sitting. The experienced ones had managed to nab the seats with the best positions for their own cameras in the middle of the auditorium and the first couple of rows. Staff was guiding people to their seats. 

Alexander stepped into the staging room behind the stage. He smiled and nodded to the two pilots who were wearing button up shirts that mimicked the top half of their racing suits. It had the company logo on one side. Their name embroidered on the other. Sponsor logos were in key placement areas. Both drivers were wearing black dress slacks and shoes with his shirt. Dorian’s hair was perfectly styled with not a hair out of place. Paul on the other hand was sporting one of those messy hairstyles that looked good no matter what you did to it. Alexander was wearing the same shirt as the staff with his name embroidered on one side and the company logo on the other. He was wearing black slacks and dress boots. He was not very fond of dress shoes. The dress boots were his compromise for fashion. Dorian and Paul looked relaxed as they sat waiting for the show to get started. The control station had someone at each workstation. Katherine was in the room giving last minute instructions to staff. There was a security guard on station outside the staging room door by the staff entrance and in the Media Pitt entrance. There were a few board members standing around speaking softly to one another. Leopold was sitting on the other end of the couch and was focused on his tablet. Wulfric was in the room and was standing at one of the workstations talking to a technician. Alexander could still hear the rumble of the crowd even though the room was soundproofed. Alexander looked at the wall screens and could see the room was packed. The seats were full and the remaining journalists were leaning against the walls. There were a few daring camera operators who were sitting on the floor in front behind their cameras. 

Alexander walked over to check in with Leopold. His timing was excellent as Leopold looked up from his screen. He stood up and motioned Alexander closer and stepped into a clear area away from most of the people.

[color=fff200]Leopold: “How are you doing Alexander?” [/color]

Alexander was surprised. That was not the question he thought he would hear from Leopold. Alexander was quiet a moment as it took a moment to form a response. He then gave Leopold a genuine smile. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I am doing better this morning. I spoke with my daughter and it sounds like she will get to leave the hospital next week. I can tell from her voice that she is going to be okay. That is a huge relief.”[/color] 

Leopold responded with a smile, happy to hear the positivity in Alexander’s voice after hearing rage, anger, and disgust in it for most of yesterday. 

[color=fff200]Leopold: “I know you feel you had no choice about coming back to racing but I want you to know that I am really glad you are here. Valkyrie needs you Alexander.Yesterday was proof of that. I respect you because you have integrity. I want you for the job because you have the skills and experience to do it well. I hope we can move past the shitstorm that happened yesterday and focus on more positive things for the future.” [/color]

Alexander studied Leopold’s face and thought about his words. He had been approached by Leopold in the past after he left racing. Leopold is one of the reasons he agreed to do this. Leopold had always treated him right. He knew that Leopold would call him to mat if he thought his behavior or ideas were crap. He had been worried that he couldn’t trust Leopold to stand up to the others who have authority and power inside the team. He felt he could trust Leopold after yesterday. He gave Leopold respectful nod and a smile as he clapped on the shoulder in a brotherly affectionate way. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I trust you after yesterday. We have to get through this press conference before we can start planning. I will have a proposal plan for you and the board by tomorrow afternoon. I would like to meet with you and Wulfric on Friday to discuss the issues happening and how they have been resolved. Now I need to wrangle my pilots and go face the sharks in the other room.” [/color]

Leopold felt a huge sense of relief. He had called in a lot of favors in order to get Knight to agree to step into this role. After yesterday’s events, he was worried that he would walk away and force breach of contract on the team. Alexander had the proof he had needed to do so if he wanted to make it stick. He was optimistically hopeful. He gave Alexander a bright smile as he clapped him on the shoulder and shook his hand. 

[color=fff200]Leopold: “Go get em Tiger!”[/color] 

Alexander just laughed and turned around looking around the room. Katherine approached him and it was obvious she had been waiting for his conversation to end. Katherine was wearing her staff shirt with a black pencil skirt and black heels. She had on understated gold jewelry that worked well with the company logo and a smartwatch on a gold band. Her long brunette hair was once more up in an elegant chignon twist with just a few stray wisps of hair framing her face. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “It is time Mr. Knight. I need you Dorian and Paul to follow me to the stage. I want you to take the middle seat with one of the pilots on each side of you. I will give an opening statement and instructions to the journalists gathered. I will then step back, turning the press conference over to you. I will be watching from the staging room. I will come and intercede as needed. I will be working with the technicians to decide which reporters will have the opportunity to ask questions. As we discussed prior, I think you should start by giving them the statement we worked on. It will answer the bulk of questions that most of them are burning to ask you.” [/color]

Katherine looked amused and her eyes lit up as she added. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “And it will help you end the press conference quicker. Mabel suggested this would be good motivation for you.” [/color]

Katherine winked at Mabel who just grinned and winked at Alexander. Leopold just laughed as he overheard the exchange. Katherine had given Mabel instructions earlier. She would be sitting in the back row taking notes for Alexander on a tablet. She would be sitting with the Board of Directors. 

Alexander did a double take at the shit eating grin on Mabel’s face before he  gave Katherine a wry grin. He gave her mental points for figuring out his discomfort with the press after being persecuted by the media after he left racing. He gave more points for using Mabel to help devise a strategy to handle his quirks. A smart woman indeed. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “You make a good point. After you.” [/color]

Alexander made a hand motion indicating she should lead the way. 

Katherine turned to the room with a decisive nod and called out in an authoritative voice. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “Showtime people. Leopold you and the other board members who want to be involved will follow the pilots onto the stage. There are chairs against the back wall where you can be a part of the action. Remember though, you will be recorded and seen. Watch your reactions and what you say. If you are worried about that, then I suggest you watch it from here. Mabel you will be seated in the back row of chairs as well.”[/color] 

Katherine’s hand indicated the large wall of screens. She waited for Paul and Dorian to join them. Katherine spoke to Paul and Dorian.

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “You will follow Alexander up on the stage. He will  take the center seat. I want each of you on either side of him. Any questions?”[/color] 

Katherine’s posture and head tilt indicated she was waiting and listening. 

Paul and Dorian looked amused. They had already been briefed and grilled about the press conference and prepared by Miss Dubois. 

Dorian had his hands in his pockets as he shrugged and turned to Paul. 

[color=00a651]Dorian: “Paul do you think there is anything that Miss Dubios has failed to tell us ad nauseam? I am pretty sure she requested we regurgitate it too. Are we ready?”[/color]

Paul crossed his arms over his chest and gave Dorian an overly dramatic worried look. 

[color=fff79a]Paul: “I don’t know Dorian.Do you think we have another hour for her to go over it again?”[/color] 

Alexander smiled glad to see the two pilots had been bonding. It was also nice to see Dorian relaxing a little. He didn’t know he had a sense of humor. Humor laced  Alexander’s voice as he replied. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Alright you two clowns. Enough joking around at Miss Dubois expense. While tedious she does a great job of protecting us from those sharks in there.”[/color] 

[color=00aeef]Alexander turned to Katherine. “We are ready. Relax Katherine. You have prepared us all as best you can. It is sink or swim time.” [/color]

The annoyance Katherine was feeling at the pilot's teasing quickly turned to surprise at Alexander’s words. She was seriously concerned that he didn’t take her role in the team seriously. She found his insight clarifying. She would have to talk to him about it later though. It was time to get this press conference started. 

Katherine walked down in front of the center stage. Alexander led the way onto the stage and pulled out the middle chair and sat down in it. Dorian took the spot on his left and Paul sat down to his right. Leopold had taken one of the chairs along the back wall and had been accompanied by fellow board members Allessandra Ferrari, Lars Olsson, Lucas Dupont, Astrid Jorgensen, and Kirsi Virtanen. Mabel took the seat to the far left next to Leopold. She pulled out her tablet and tucked one ankle behind the other. She was wearing crisp white linen slacks with black flats and a team shirt like the rest of the staff. She had on a gold colored scarf over her white hair that matched the colors in the team logo and gold jewelry. 

Katherine waited for those on the stage to settle and then raised her hands to get everyone’s attention. She had a wireless microphone clipped to her collar that fed into the media center’s sound system. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “Welcome to the Valkyrie AGR Sport Media Center. My name is Katherine Dubois. We hope you enjoy the small token of appreciation we left for you all. Before we dive into the press conference I want to explain how press conferences work here at Valkyrie AGR Headquarters. I know many of you have been before and are anxious to get to why you are here. However, instructions are necessary for new journalists joining us here today. The reason drones are banned is because it is dangerous to have so many flying around here in an enclosed space. We  had issues in the past with conflicting controllers and injuries from them crashing into people. This room has built in cameras with varying angles, microphones, and soundsystem devices along with appropriate lighting. All journalists have access to the live recording as it is being recorded. The information on how to set up the secure encrypted link is in your press packet. If you need to set that up, please take a minute to do so now as I finish the instructions.”[/color] 

Katherine paused as the inevitable scramble from new reporters, journalists, and bloggers started. Katherine gave them a few minutes before resuming her instructions. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “Valkyrie has set up this room specifically to facilitate press conferences. You will have noticed a series of buttons on the arm of your chair and a camera on the back of the chair in front of you. There are cameras and recording devices all over this room. You will all be recorded here today. The recordings will be kept in our archive. If you do not wish to be recorded, then please leave now. You have been notified.”[/color] 

She gave a slight pause before continuing. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “The press conference will start with a prepared statement by the new Crew Chief, Alexander Knight. After his statement, you are free to ask questions. To avoid the noise and confusion that large press conferences have, if you wish to ask a question please press the red button on the arm of your chair marked with a question mark. You will see the green light indicator light up if you are chosen to ask your question. This is to prevent you all trying to talk over one another. You will each get an opportunity to ask 1 question. Please pay attention as repeat questions will be ignored. Please pay attention to the information given in the prepared statement as it should take care of the bulk of the expected questions. If the answer to your question was answered in the prepared statement, then your question will be ignored in order to save time. There are a lot of you here today. Please think about your questions accordingly.” [/color]

Katheirne looked out over the crowd of reporters before continuing. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “Are there any logistical questions before we get started? Has everyone understood the instructions?” [/color]

Katherine looked around the room and didn’t see any hands go up. Katherine gave them all a sunny smile. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “Then without further ado, I am going to turn this meeting over to Alexander Knight the new Crew Chief for Valkyrie AGR Sport.”[/color] 

Katherine turned and waved her hand behind her to indicate the guys seated at the table behind her. She then walked away and stepped back into the staging room and walked over to workstations to keep an eye on things. 

Alexander did his best not to fidget and keep a neutral expression on his face. Dorian looked cool as a cucumber, his experience showing. Paul looked comfortable and was looking around at the crowd. Alexander had been told how press conferences worked here at Valkyrie but this would be his first one here. It felt like time was stretching out as Katherine spoke yet when she turned to hand over the press conference to him. It felt like it was too soon. Alexander took a deep breath and smiled. He had a lot to smile about today. Alexander began the conference. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Good morning. Thank you for all being here today. I apologize for not granting interviews sooner but the sheer number of requests were overwhelming. I was also very busy getting started.” [/color]

He paused to allow for the laughter to stop. Then he looked around the room with a bright smile before continuing. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I want to start with why I took the position as Crew Chief with the Valkyrie team after so much time has passed. Yes I had meant my words when I walked away from racing in the past. I felt angry, betrayed and was grieving the loss of my best friend. I never planned to return to racing ever.” [/color]

The audience was quiet and there was a seriousness and tension in the room from Alexander’s statement. Alexander let all the fear and helplessness and rage he had felt at hearing of his daughter’s fate wash across his face and it seeped into his voice. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Then I got a phone call that no father wants to hear. My only child, my daughter Arianna, had been hit in a freak accident. She had been walking home from class and was hit by a drunk driver. She was in critical condition at the hospital. I immediately hopped on a plane and headed to the hospital. By the time I got there, she had made it through the surgery to save her life but she was not out of the woods yet.”[/color] 

Alexander paused in his story taking a deep shuddering breath as he re-lived those dark unsettling hours. Alexander’s focus was distant as if he was reliving the experience instead of being present in a room full of people and strangers. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “When I got to the hospital, there was my beautiful daughter covered in bandages, casts, bruises, and pins. There were metal braces and tubes and wires and machines beeping. There was a tube down her throat making her breath. It was touch and go for almost two weeks.”[/color] 

The love Alexander had for his daughter was evident at the amount of pain and remembered helplessness in his voice. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “She finally turned the corner and we were told she was going to live. However the doctor’s told us that she would be a paraplegic. She was going to be paralyzed from the neck down due to the injuries she sustained. Even though all her broken bones were mending, they couldn’t fix her severed spinal cord and damaged nerves”[/color] 

Alexander seemed to come back from the past as he paused once more and blinked. It was as if he was aware of his audience once more. His look was sad. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Augmentations and implants have come a long way since I got mine. Full body augmentations though are still difficult to integrate and make work. They are also highly regulated and costly. They are still working to resolve secondary issues with these types of augmentations. My daughter met the strict criteria for a new experimental implant and augmentation combination but it was very costly. I couldn’t afford it. My daughter’s future had never looked so bleak.”[/color] 

Alexander paused as pain closed his throat at the feeling of helplessness at the memory washed over him. Alexander looked up at the captive audience. The auditorium was still dead silent as he continued. 

Alexander smiled as he continued  his tone full of joy and love that his daughter was going to be okay. 


[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Then I got a phone call from Leopold Koch.” [/color]

Alexander deliberately kept Alicia’s name out of this because she never wanted Paul to learn that she had interfered with this. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Leopold Koch for those who don’t know is the Board President for Valkyrie AGR Sport. I have worked with Leopold in the past. He asked me if I would consider coming back to Valkyrie for a one year contract with a signing bonus big enough to cover the implants that my daughter needed. I told him to send me the contract.”[/color] 

Alexander smiled and looked around the audience as he continued. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “After negotiating a few things, I took the offer. I have a contract to be the Crew  Chief for one year with options to renew by both parties. I came back to racing to give my daughter a future. I am happy to report she is on her way to a full recovery. After speaking with her this morning, I am now ready to devote my complete focus on improving Valkyrie AGR Sport.”[/color] 

Alexander paused as there was some stirring and muttering around the room. Alexander grinned as he continued knowing his statement certainly had dramatic elements to it. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I have spent what little time I have had with the team so far learning how and what they are doing and getting to know them.” [/color]

Alexander took a deep breath as he tried not to let the anger and annoyance from yesterday’s debacle influence the next part. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I will confirm the rumors that my first full day at Valkyrie AGR Sport Headquarters was difficult. There was a need to address some internal issues with the team. The team will be restructuring things. We are taking things back to basics and rethinking our structure and path forward. We are making decisions as a team based on the expertise, knowledge, and the skills of our team. I will not disclose any details as to what this approach might entail. So don’t ask me. What I will share with you is that the new approach we are taking is going to focus on our individual pilots and optimizing and supporting them as individuals.” [/color]

Alexander paused as his words caused a lot of reaction since usually the answers to those questions are things like we are focusing on speed, stability, energy systems or augmentations. His answer was pretty vague but still left a lot open to interpretation. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “My start here at Valkyrie has been difficult but I am happy to be here. It is my hope to bring the team together so we can work together to take Valkyrie to the top. I am very happy that Leopold called me. I have really missed racing. I am looking forward to seeing how I can help Dorian and Paul succeed. I will open the floor to questions at this time.” [/color]

Alexander gave a decisive nod and the noise and bedlam almost overwhelmed Alexander as journalists forgot to use the question button. He heard Katherine’s cultured tones come over the speaker system reminding the journalists to use the buttons since they could not all talk at once. Alexander waited as Katherine picked who to start with. 

[color=f26522]ESPN: “Hello Jeff Bauer with ESPN. My question is for Dorian. How are you adjusting to working with someone who was once a former competitor? Rumors have it there is tension between the two of you.”[/color] 

Dorian had been expecting this question since he had already been asked the question several times. He just smiled as he answered.

[color=00a651]Dorian: “We might have been competitors but Alexander and I have never been enemies or shared ill will towards one another. We are working on learning more about each other and have a good working relationship.” [/color]

[color=f26522]NBCSports: “Angela Ramirez with NBCSports. This question is for Paul. How comfortable are you working with  Alexander Knight? A man who was a former competitor and racer of your father who was accused of being involved with the death of your father?” [/color]

Paul looked surprised and a little shocked to be asked this question. It took a minute to find the words to respond. Alexander couldn’t say he was surprised by the question but it worried him where the questions would lead if they were starting with these. 

[color=fff79a]Paul: “I was just a boy when my father’s ship crashed. The incident was investigated by both law enforcement and the racing commission. I am aware of the rumors that still persist but the official investigations have cleared Mr.Knight of any involvement or wrong doing. My father’s accident was ruled a tragic accident. It was after this the Racing Commission implemented changes to safety. I harbor Mr. Knight no ill will. We are still working on getting to know each other. We are working well together so far.”[/color] 

There was a slight pause before another question came from the journalists. 

[color=f26522]Worldwide Sports: “Jabari Biko with Worldwide Sports. This question is for Alexander. Can you share if you are planning on short term changes or planning to build new ships?”[/color] 

Alexander relaxed as the question gave him an emotional reprieve. He kept his face neutral but he struggled with the internal guilt that had stayed with him after Audrick’s death. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I can’t divulge anything that might reveal what we are working on or our strategy. All I can confirm for you is that the team is working on making changes before the next race in Africa. Will the changes be beneficial? Well we just have to wait and see if there are any gains in the next race.” [/color]

Alexander gave them a smug smile since he had already answered this question for the press. What they didn’t know was that his strategy and choices had not even been revealed to his team just yet. He had to learn what they were already doing and explore the possibilities available to the team before he could come up with a plan.That process had been started. He was hoping to have a proposal plan to share with the Board of Directors by late Thursday afternoon. 

[color=f26522]TMZ: “This is Lilly Stryker with TMZ. This question is for Dorian and Paul. Our viewers want to know… Is there anyone special in your life? Are you single or dating someone?” [/color]

Dorian preened a little at being asked the question. The press hadn’t asked him this question in some time. 

[color=00a651]Dorian winked at the reporter from TMZ. “Well Miss Stryker, I have not had time to date anyone for some time. So while I have the occasional date here and there. There is no special someone waiting in the wings for me.”[/color] 

Paul just smiled and had a look of acceptance on his face. Paul laughed at Dorian’s response. 

[color=fff79a]Paul: “I have to agree with Dorian. Racing at the professional level doesn’t leave a lot of personal time for dating. There is no special girl for me at the moment unless you count my ship. We have a standing date every few weeks right now.” He winked at the reporter as laughter broke out among the reporters. [/color]

[color=f26522]FoxNews: “Jessica Smith with Fox News. This question is for Alexander. Mr. Knight, can you confirm the rumors that went out over social media yesterday that Dr. Zimmerman Head of the Medical Team and Bernard Maier the Chief Executive Officer here at Valkyrie AGR Sport were fired? And can you confirm that Dr. Zimmerman was arrested on assault charges despite rumors leaked from inside sources on Team Valkyrie yesterday that claim you assaulted Dr. Zimmerman.”[/color] 

Alexander had expected this after Katherine had been informed that information had been leaked on social media yesterday.

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I can confirm that Dr. Zimmerman and Bernand Maier were fired from Valkyrie AGR Sport. All I am allowed to share with you is that Dr. Zimmerman was arrested on assault charges.If you want additional information, please speak to local law enforcement as the case is still pending investigation and I am not at liberty to disclose any information about it. I will answer no more questions about this topic.” [/color]

There was another buzz of reaction from the reporters and journalists present at this information. 

[color=00a651]Victory Laps Racing News: “Lauri Ivan with Victory Laps Racing News. This question is for Alexander. Will you comment on the rumors that you are hiring your lover as your Executive Assistant? And that this caused the altercation that led to Mr. Maier’s dismissal?”[/color] 

Alexander couldn’t help laughing at the question. He had expected a question about Maier’s dismissal but after Mabel made such a dramatic entrance to the team the day before. He had not expected that this rumor hadn’t been squashed yet. Behind him Mabel was bent over laughing. 

Alexander looked amused as he got his laughter under control enough to answer. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “The only comment I will make about Mr. Maier’s dismissal was that it was for cause and is still being investigated by the Chief of Security. As to the rumor about my new Executive Assistant, while I think she is a lovely warm person. We do not have a sexual relationship.”[/color] 

Mabel stood up laughing and winked at Lauri as her comment carried to the crowd of reporters. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “Well Lauri, You see Alexander is a very nice and handsome man but he is just not my type. He is a little young for me. I like my men older with wrinkles like me.”[/color] 

Mabel smiled as she was almost blinded by a sea of flashes going off despite the excellent lighting on the stage. 

Alexander smiled and waved a hand towards Mabel. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Let me introduce you all to my Executive Assistant, Mabel Brown. I managed to convince her to come out of retirement and join me in Germany. We have worked together in the past and I knew I could trust her to hit the ground running.” [/color]

There was another buzz of reaction from the crowd as Mabel resumed her seat with a smirk. She noticed Leopold was trying not to laugh and his head tilted down with his hand blocking his face as he chuckled quietly. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander couldn’t resist adding. “As you can see, she is perfectly able and happy to speak for herself.” [/color]

There was shared laughter around the room at that comment.

[color=f26522]EuroNews: “Hilmar Jokum  with EuroNews. This question is for Alexander. Do you harbor any ill feelings for Silver Apex? I understand that many of your former team and coworkers now work for the team.” [/color]

Alexander was stunned by that news. When he got out of racing he stopped following the people who were central to his personal tragedy and crisis years ago. He had no idea who had gone to Silver Apex or if they were one of the contributors to his story. He couldn’t hide his surprise so he just went with it and shrugged. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “I followed racing for a while after I left. I stopped paying attention many years ago. I honestly have no idea who you are talking about. My feelings for Silver Apex are respectful and competitive. They are currently sitting at the top as the team to beat. I want to take that pedestal from them because I am a competitive bastard. I want my team to win. I respect them as competitors because they have earned that by being the best. That doesn’t mean I won’t do my best to remove their crown.”[/color] 

Alexander was surprised by the question and the response from the reporters to his answer as he saw more flashes go off. He should have worn his aviators, he thought , as he saw spots. 

[color=f26522]EU Observer: “Baetriz Caetana with the EU Observer. My question is for Dorian. Dorian you actually dropped a spot from qualifying at the race in Auckland. Can you share what happened at Auckland that you lost a spot? And What are you doing differently to prepare for Africa?”[/color] 

[color=00a651]Dorian: “It was the first race of the season. As you so kindly pointed out, I only lost one position in the rankings. There is a lot of new and skilled talent on the field this year. There are always improvements that happen during the pre-season that you don’t know about till your competitors use them for the first time.”[/color]

Dorian shrugged as if unaffected and this was to be expected. 

[color=00a651]Dorian: “This is the cycle of what happens with AG Racing. These things happen. Valkyrie is already making adjustments to the ships before Africa. I have been training hard for the next race and reviewing mistakes made at Auckland to see how I could have countered moves used against me. I will do better in Africa.”[/color] 

[color=f26522]BBC World: “Sabrina Merla with BBC World News. This question is for Paul. Now that you have moved from the Junior AG League to the AG Professional League, do you plan to use more biotech augmentations or implants?” [/color]

[color=fff79a]Paul: “The honest answer is I don’t know. There are alot of factors that go into decisions such as this. Team Valkyrie is under regulations by the European Union which heavily restrict pilot augmentation. It would depend on the augmentations and if they were allowed and what the side effects might be. I am in no hurry to jump on artificial augmentation as an answer to improve my racing position. Any augmentations I do take on will be carefully considered.” [/color]

Paul’s answer seemed to surprise Dorian who looked over at Paul with a raised eyebrow. The press mumbled and shifted in reaction to his answer. 

[color=f26522]Teen World News: Bohuslav Čestmír with Teen World News. This question is for Paul and Dorian. “While our viewers understand that you are unavailable for a serious relationship, our viewers are eager to know what you find attractive. Could you tell us what your perfect date would be? What do you find attractive? A man? A woman? Both?”[/color] 

Dorian was amused to get this question since he had been in the media spotlight for a long time. Dorian played along like he didn’t answer it once a year. Dorian was happily bisexual. He was an equal opportunity lover but he required more than a pretty face. 

[color=00a651]Dorian: “For me it is about the person. I am attracted to beauty like anyone but that is not what I am looking for. My perfect date is someone that I find fascinating and can hold real conversations with. I want to be able to discuss world issues, art, and culture. I am looking for someone to connect with on an emotional and intellectual level. Hence why I said that I don’t have time to date right now.”[/color]  

Paul found Dorian’s answer very insightful about his teammate. It was a deeper and more thoughtful response than he expected. Paul just shrugged and looked sheepish as he answered. 

[color=fff79a]Paul: “I am attracted to women. That has been no secret. Like Dorian, I find a beautiful woman attractive but I am looking for more than a pretty face. Right now my focus is on building my career. I don’t have time to date. I am not ready for a serious relationship in my life. Someday I want a wife and children. But I don’t see that in my future for at least another 10 years.” [/color]

[color=f26522]Winners Circle: “Germain Lothaire with Winners Circle Vlog. My question is for Alexander. You have been away from Anti-gravity racing for a long time. Are you qualified to be the team Crew Chief? What do you feel you bring to the team that will help them?” [/color]

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Well you are correct. It is a fact that I have been absent from the racing world for a long time. Since I was a racer in the early days of AG. I do understand the pressures that pilots are under to perform. I understand all the components and people it takes to make a team successful. After I left racing, I went to school for engineering. I have been working as an energy and drive systems engineer for the last 15 years. I have an excellent grasp on the technical aspect of racing as well. My experience in both sectors I understand the people, the technology, and the bigger picture of what needs to happen to take Team Valkyrie to the top of the leaderboard.”[/color]

[color=f26522]People: Jamaica Williams with People. My question is actually for Miss Mabel Brown. Miss Brown, how long have you worked with Alexander Knight? What would you say his worst habit is?” [/color]

Mabel looked surprised to have a question lobbed her way. She chuckled at the question though her eyes practically danced with glee. 

Alexander had an oh my god look on his face which shifted into resignation as he buried his face in his hands. He had no idea what would come out of her mouth. 

Mabel chuckled as she answered the question. Her voice was full of amusement as she answered. 

[color=f6989d]Mabel: “I have worked for Mr. Knight for the last 5 years.” She paused considering what might be a good answer to the second part of the question. “Well he is a little slow in the morning and grouchy before he has had his first cup of coffee. I always have to let him finish the first cup before he makes any sense at all.”[/color] 

Again there was shared laughter at Mabel’s answers and Alexander’s reaction. 

[color=f26522]Gossip: “Hans Keller with Gossip Online Magazine. This question is for Alexander. There is gossip that not only were two high profile employees fired at Valkyrie yesterday but that a board member was replaced. Can you confirm this gossip?” [/color]

Alexander was surprised to get this question as he hadn’t seen any mention of the board members on social media last night. It made him wonder who the man’s sources were. This was not something Leopold and he had discussed. Alexander just shrugged and decided to give them the truth since it would be confirmed eventually. 

[color=00aeef]Alexander: “Yes. Sebastian Amantas with Brimex Corporation stepped down yesterday and was replaced by Oliver Saar.”[/color] 

This must have been news to most of the journalists present as there was a loud reaction as several tried to ask follow up questions without using the buttons again. 

Katherine emerged from the staging room and walked to the front of the room to address the crowd holding up her hands to quieten them down. 

[color=bc8dbf]Katherine: “We apologize for any inconvenience but the press conference is over. We have already run over by a half hour. I did warn you all that we wouldn’t answer repeat questions. Thank you for coming today. Don’t forget your gift bags! We look forward to seeing you at the next press conference.” [/color] 

Everyone behind her on the stage began to leave, going back to the staging room as discussed before they started. A security guard stepped through the door to the staging room after everyone but Katherne had gone through blocking it after shutting it. It was a clear sign that there would be no surprise last minute questions for anyone who had been onstage. 

[hr]

[color=gold][center][h1][i][b]Social Media[/b][/i][/h1][/center][/color]

[hr]

[center][color=fff200]ValkyrieAGRSport: You can view today’s press conference on the Team Vlog. Link Here. Don’t forget to visit the team store for all your Team Valkyrie Gear needs![/color][/center]

[color=fff200]OfficeDrone#12:[/color] Alexander Knight is already making waves. He is going to ruin my favorite AGR team. 
[color=fff200]SuperfanAGR54:[/color] Wow! Explosive beginning for Knight.  
[color=fff200]DantheMan:[/color] And the culling begins. 
[color=fff200]Superfan2075:[/color] I am withholding judgment. . 
[color=fff200]DadBod89:[/color] Some of the rumors were right. 
[color=fff200]Hater101:[/color] Vague bullshit answers from Knight. 
[color=fff200]Papabear34:[/color]I repeat: Alexander Knight Sucks!  #knightfail #bringbackdominic
[color=fff200]Nana2050:[/color] I have to like a man who recognizes and obviously respects experience. 
[color=fff200]GeorgeFly:[/color] I want to see what changes they make before Africa. 
[color=fff200]ValkyrieFan56:[/color] Why did he start with human resources and the doctor? My god the head doctor was arrested for assault! What if he had hurt one of the pilots?.  
[color=fff200]Weedhead81:[/color]Why do my messages keep getting flagged?
[color=fff200]SexyM@m@5:[/color] My sources say there were fireworks at Valkyrie yesterday in Human Resources. 
[color=fff200]Paulmulder4eva:[/color] Wow. Paul is like the perfect man. 
[color=fff200]Britball12:[/color] @Hater101 100% agree with you. Bullshit answers. 
[color=fff200]BatDave:[/color] I am still Batman.
[color=fff200]Weedhead81:[/color] Knight needs a toke, man. 
[color=fff200]!YouSlow!: [/color] Still not Ross Chastain greatness. 
[color=fff200]xImFasterthanUx:[/color] Maybe bringing in an older guy is just what AG needs to get a new perspective and direction.
[color=fff200]AGInthusiast:[/color]  At least Paul and Dorian haven’t been photographed with their peckers out yet. 

[color=gold][center][h2][i][b]To be continued... Thursday is coming![/b][/i][/h2][/center][/color]