Jim was eagerly awaiting the release of the second season patch for "Champion" when he received an unexpected invitation: a government program seeking his participation. While initially hesitant about government work, Jim recognized the potential benefits. Joining a top guild could be incredibly lucrative, but its player retention system was highly competitive, rewarding only the most skilled players. In contrast, the government program offered consistent benefits for all participants, regardless of individual performance.
However, this stability came at a cost. The program required daily reporting of in-game data, such as playtime and crash reports. While manageable, this added an extra hour to Jim's daily routine. The most appealing contract option, the 5-year term, included an obligation to participate in government missions when requested. While most missions were manageable, scouting missions were notoriously time-consuming.
Despite these considerations, Jim ultimately decided to accept the government offer. The consistent benefits outweighed the potential drawbacks, and the prospect of government service didn't seem overly burdensome. He confirmed his acceptance via email and scheduled an in-person meeting for lunch that day.
The fluorescent lights of the government office buzzed, casting a sterile glow on Jim as he nervously adjusted his chair. Across the polished oak table sat Agent Smith, his face a mask of serious professionalism. A stack of documents lay between them, each page crisp and intimidating.
"Welcome, Jim," Agent Smith began, his voice a low rumble. "Thank you for accepting our invitation. As you know, the Champion program is crucial to national security."
Jim nodded, trying to appear calm despite the butterflies fluttering in his stomach. He had spent the past few days researching the program, piecing together the vague information provided in the initial email. It involved utilizing in-game skills and knowledge to assist government agencies in various, unspecified ways.
"The program offers unique advantages," Agent Smith continued, sliding a document across the table. "Access to cutting-edge technology, exclusive training programs, and in-game resources. You'll be integrated into a unit, working alongside other players."
Jim scanned the document, his eyes drawn to the section on benefits. It was indeed impressive: advanced gear, in-game currency, and even the opportunity to participate in the development of future missions. The allure was undeniable as his current occupation is part time jobs and being a full time student. If he accepted this offer, Jim would not be considered rich but would not have to worry about a part time job and put his full focus on game.
"Of course," Agent Smith added, his tone shifting slightly, "there are certain… obligations. As outlined in the contract, you will be required to assist in government missions when called upon."
Jim braced himself. "I understand. What kind of missions are we talking about?"
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Agent Smith leaned forward, his eyes intense. "Cybersecurity threats, intelligence gathering, even… unconventional operations. As you might have known, every nation has their own agenda and might clash over resources with other nations. You may be called upon for certain missions such as recon, target eliminations… This is all done within the game, you will not have to physically harm anyone."
Jim felt a jolt of adrenaline. Unconventional operations? This was far more than he had anticipated. The initial excitement began to wane, replaced by a growing sense of unease. He had expected to contribute his gaming skills, perhaps by analyzing game data or developing strategies. But covert operations within the game? This was a whole different level.
"I… I need some time to consider this," Jim stammered, feeling a cold sweat prickle his skin.
Agent Smith nodded understandingly. "What if we double the benefits and missions will be short term in nature unless critically required?"
As a gamer, Jim knew the power shifted as he was about to leave the room. He was almost certain that his recent performance at the Christmas Bowl was valuable to the government and he could leverage this. He agreed only if they paid the 5 year contract and the bonus to double the benefits up front into a trust that could not be changed or meddled with. Jim did not want to think about any issues if he cannot logoff for a period of time or get called away during an important moment in the game.
Agent Smith did not reply right away and instead called someone on his phone. After a couple of minutes he agreed and would send over an email with the new terms and conditions agreed upon today. The night ended as the email was received and Jim reread the agreement. Interestingly enough, there is a separate facility providing everything he could want, room and board, food, entertainment, fitness. This was a new facility spearheaded by the government after esports took off. Jim did not hesitate to sign up for the facility as he could take his classes online for the next four years if he decides to invest in education. He logged into the Champion forums for any interesting forums. The first couple of forums was dominated by the Christmas bowl videos. Players who were lucky enough to watch from the sidelines recorded all of the events. While players support Jim when he won the team event, players quickly criticized his reckless behavior in the second challenge when he ended up in last place. Jim found these comments funny and looked through his email messages as tons of fans supported him with cash or in game currency. Jim forgot that he used to be a streamer in the past life and donations were a common source of income. Jim regretted signing the contract with the government so rashly but nothing could be done. He added all of his assets and bought more shares of the Champion’s parent company.
The next day he logged on.
Champion Season 2
System notification: Would you like to choose another character and start over or continue with your recent character.
Jim thought about his past as he only picked one class to play and missed out on other classes. He chose to start a new class. Jim was teleported to Apple town in the beginner zone again and was prompted to enter the character name. He changed his name to Jim as it was starting to get confusing when people called him Sera with her soul bound to him. He changed his name to “Jim”. As he exited the beginner zone, Jim traveled quickly to the Church of Damien in the northern region to meet with Bishop Carl.
Bishop Carl greeted Jim and showed him the plot of land that he could use in the Garden of Damien for performing so well in the Christmas Bowl. Jim thanked him and started to choose his next class which was actually something no one would think of. He scrolled through the job classes and selected “farmer”.
Jim honored Adam’s choice in Season 1 as he wanted to become a farmer.
System Notification: you are now a farmer.