Chapter 109: The V.I.R.A.L League (1/2)
”400 years ago, our world fell to evil. The world seemed doomed, and all hope was lost. All around countries fell to chaos and despair, the heroes of yesterday were nowhere to be seen. But from the ashes of loss came V.I.R.A.L, they pushed back the invaders and saved our glorious country of Victoria. Now humanity has gotten its footing once more, we live in a new golden age, one not held back by governments, one not held back by so-called heroes. V.I.R.A.L is here. The CEOs guided our country to new heights and show us the path forward. Their gift to us, the streamers. Superhumans who have taken the role to fight crime and defend our country from such evils all while entertaining the masses. With such guardians under our belt, we have no need for an army, no need for the police force like before. We live in a new world one where anyone can be someone, and we are here to celebrate this turnabout with the V.I.R.A.L League. It's that time once more to prove who is the mightiest streamer alive!”
”Words to live by Jon, words to live by. This is the day you've all been waiting for ladies and gentlemen the 31st annual V.I.R.A.L league is among us and this year is extra special. I'm your host J4J4 and with me is my good friend Deadlyjonstar!”
”Thank you, Emily, we are in the preshow phase right now as streamers from all across the land come to enter and we've already seen quite a few big names and unexpected entries.”
Emily nodded, holding a remote up. ”Indeed Jon, here we see that Victoria's favourite superstar Harmony has been one of the unexpected turnabouts. After the defeat, her team took losing the lives of two of her friends and the other in a critical condition it is quite the surprise seeing her step up as the leader. We, of course, expect her to be going for the wish to help her allies, what a shame she cannot wish for her fallen allies to come back. I'm curious to see how she'll handle this solo mission not having the backup of her band to help.”
”That's what I was thinking too, Emily.” He nodded leaning on the desk chewing on his gum. ”Harmony isn't known for many direct conflicts seeing her band doing the heavy work. I'm not sure she's quite up for the challenge, although I would love to be proved wrong.”
”We also have another big contender being the infamous Kale Mount, better known as Diorama. He caused quite a racket a few years back and got his licence revoked. How is this old streamer going to compare to the new blood, we'll be keeping an eye on this old-timer.”
Jon leaned over his chair, staring at the screen, nodding convinced. ”Say J4, we've never seen eye to eye on a lot of things, I was quite surprised they asked us to host this year's show together. I must ask with all these streamers taking part this year you think we are going to get any surprises?”
”Hmm, well I agree I think you are a total piece of shit, the viewers want us, so they've got us. But to keep to your question Jonstar, I would be keeping my eye on the groups. It will be quite interesting to see how these teams work by themselves and who might just stab who in the back. At the end of the day, there can only be one winner. I'm excited to see who will come out on top.”
”Well, it certainly won't be Vanguard again this time. Stay tuned for your daily news update as we host the entire event to your very screens. Keep watching people and remember to stay viral!”
****
Alton adjusted his shoulder, moving his arm around, still feeling stiff. Scarlett shook his arm, looking slightly concerned. ”Are you sure you're up for this?”
”I have to be. If I'm going to win, I need to be on my A-game.”
”Oh, has the cameras and hype got to you too then Alton my dear friend? I thought you didn't care about winning. We are only here to stop EOR.” Gale mocked. ”Of course, winning or losing doesn't mean much to me. I'm just here for the ride, if that means being able to knock a few cocky streamers down a peg or two then that's just a bonus for me.”
Scarlett aired Gale turning her back on him giving the cold shoulder as she began putting the last bandages on Alton's arm. ”Don't listen to that loser. If this Eyes Over Reality dude does show, we'll show him not to mess with us.”
”You're not thinking of winning?”
”Winning some silly contest is not going to prove anything for me. I do not need any sort of wish. I make my own wishes come true… I sound like a Disney princess now, but none the less I will aid you any way I can Alton. If we meet on the battlefield, I'll join forces, you'll win I will make sure of that.”
Gale slouches over grumbling quietly. ”Do the rules even allow that?”
”Of course, anyone can team up, it's whether or not they can trust each other till the very end that counts. But you can rest easy Alton, I will never betray you. If you do not mind me asking, what is your wish?”
Alton dropped his arms by his side as the presenter walked on stage. ”My wish? I wish I was never born.”
Scarlett froze in shock, dazed by Alton's response. She tried snapping back at his comment only for her voice to be drained out by the speakers as the presenter began his speech. ”Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, streamers alike! My name is Clamorous, and this is the V.I.R.A.L League!”
Zinnia covered her ears behind slightly further back in the crowd with Emil. ”He sure is loud.”
”What?”