Ausländerbehörde and travelling with the Fiktionsbescheinigung

First post here. Hello!

I have an appointment coming up this month (appointment date was given quickly, 1 month).

I am eligible to receive the Fiktionsbescheinigung that allows me to travel in and out of Germany. When filling out the online form there wasn't any box to request it. I plan to travel within the Schengen area in early Sept after my 90 / 180 days are up, so I would like to travel without worrying about paperwork.

Do you know if? :

1. Do I ask for it and receive it during the appointment itself? If not, when?

2. Should/can I request it beforehand via email, phone. If so what's the contact email/phone?

3. Their FAQ do mention other countries generally accept the Fiktionsbescheinigung, but to confirm first. Anyone here that has recently traveled with that + your passport?

4. It's recommended I bring a German speaking friend to the appointment, right?

Thank you!