Talkshow Part 1

"What's this about me receiving an invitation to a talk show?" Viona furrowed her brow, regarding Ema with disbelief. Ema, one of her classmates, had just broken the news to her.

Ema blinked and replied, "Well, for the past few days, you've been making headlines, and the latest buzz is all about Elaine. Naturally, they want a more in-depth explanation, perhaps even a bit of insider gossip about you," Ema responded, her tone suggesting that Viona's question was somewhat naïve.

Viona blinked, processing this information. "Okay, I understand that. But... Talk and Gorge Show isn't just your run-of-the-mill talk show. Why me?" Viona inquired, her expression reflecting her genuine perplexity.

"Maybe because you're Viona Amethyst?" Ema countered, her look tinged with bewilderment.

Viona began to form a retort but decided against it, silently conceding that there might be some merit to Ema's statement.

"Anyway, they're expecting you in the principal's office right now. As far as I know, the talk show will be hosted in one of our multipurpose rooms, making it more convenient for the audience or something," Ema shared before departing.

Viona let out a sigh and ambled toward the principal's office with a skeptical countenance. In the past, the Talk and Gorge Show had been one of the most sought-after talk shows, having even received a Grammy award in 2029. This distinction wasn't merely due to Gorge Robert's candid hosting style, his indifference to the backgrounds of other celebrities, his reputation for humor and congeniality, but also because Gorge Robert was the first host to genuinely win the public's affection, both on and off the camera.

Legend had it that anyone who earned an invitation to the show would inevitably find themselves in the spotlight. However, fame didn't always have a positive connotation. Viona was aware of several artists who had appeared on the show, only to later be embroiled in drug-related scandals or similar controversies. Yet, despite these issues, many of them remained firmly entrenched in the public eye, even if they had been among Gorge's initial guests five years ago, when the show had first launched.

***

Viona gently tapped on the door of the principal's office, and after receiving an invitation, she entered. Inside, she was met with the sight of the school principal engrossed in conversation with Gorge, and two individuals she presumed to be part of the talk show's crew or Gorge's managers.

"Ah, Viona Amethyst!" Gorge's eyes lit up as he swiftly rose from his chair, approaching Viona. With a graceful touch, he took her hand and bestowed a gentlemanly kiss on its back, causing Viona to arch an intrigued eyebrow.

Viona responded with a cordial smile before turning her inquisitive gaze towards the principal. "You summoned me, Sir?"

The principal nodded and gestured for Viona to take a seat. "Of course, Ms. Ema Winters has likely informed you about the invitation you've received from the Talk and Gorge Show as a featured guest?"

Viona seated herself, maintaining a serious demeanor. "Is there a contract available that outlines the terms, my rights, and my responsibilities for this event?" she inquired calmly.

Gorge couldn't help but express his admiration. "You are indeed a sharp young lady. Most people immediately ask about compensation, but you're more concerned with the contract."

Viona blinked, her expression unchanged. "Well, that's because I don't necessarily need the money. Although I won't refuse fair compensation, my primary interest lies in understanding what will be expected of me if I accept your invitation," Viona replied in a composed manner.

In the room, all eyes met as they exchanged glances, including the principal who furrowed his brow in thought. Gorge, however, couldn't hide his approving grin, admiring the composed demeanor of the girl half his age.

"I'm fond of you for a specific reason. Rest assured, we have a comprehensive contract that delineates your obligations as a guest on our show, as well as your rights. It extends beyond payment to encompass the publicity you'll receive during your guest appearances," Gorge explained, prompting his assistant to provide the prepared contract.

Viona accepted the contract and embarked on a thorough reading. The document wasn't particularly lengthy. The compensation for a single appearance equated to one month's salary for Viona's household assistant, a substantial sum, especially in comparison to her earlier earnings of only 1 million Rupiah for three episodes, which often involved five to six days of filming.

As for Viona's responsibilities, they included providing requested information to Gorge, primarily focusing on a list of approximately 20 questions related to the Elaine incident. These tasks were by no means burdensome for Viona, as she was determined to expose the misconduct of the elderly man.

In addition to the payment, Viona was promised publicity, encompassing television and magazine coverage. This meant she would participate in a photoshoot for The NewS, a gossip magazine affiliated with NTVI, the channel that aired the Talk and Gorge Show.

Upon thorough examination, Viona couldn't find any hidden agendas or exploitative clauses within the contract. It dawned on her that they viewed her as an experienced artist who was well-versed in the intricacies of the entertainment industry. This realization brought a subtle, knowing smile to Viona's graceful countenance. The world truly rotated due to her choice to use her real name.

Acknowledging the terms, Viona placed the contract on the table and signed it. "When do we commence?" she inquired with a composed smile.

"Excellent! I'll promptly get in touch with our photography team to arrange the photoshoot. They should be here within the hour. I'll also instruct the talk show crew to set up a studio in one of the rooms provided by the principal," Gorge detailed with an appreciative grin.

Viona nodded in understanding. "In that case, I'll make my preparations, ensuring everything is set for me within an hour and thirty minutes," she declared as she gracefully rose from her seat.

With a courteous nod to everyone in the room and the principal's permission, Viona departed, her thoughts already engaged in the exciting opportunities that lay ahead.

***

"He truly embodies the essence of an Amethyst," Gorge remarked about his close friend.

Llyod, the principal of Artemis, let out a weary sigh. "He has a way of making me feel older than my years," the man in his mid-forties commented.

Gorge wore a mischievous grin. "It's not uncommon, you know. All your students and friends have a knack for making you feel older. Besides, it's partly your own doing, surrounding yourself with characters like that, even when you were just 15 years old," he quipped.

Llyod rolled his eyes. "I'll arrange for students who can be in the audience," he said, retrieving his phone from his pocket.

"I'll get prepared too," Gorge said as he stood up.

They exchanged their goodbyes before immersing themselves in their respective tasks.