Earth Log Entry #3: A New Allegiance
Sonny was introduced to American football at a bar on a Sunday.
Chad explained that it was very important.
Men and women watched intently. Voices became louder. Emotions escalated rapidly.
“This is football,” Chad said. “You gotta pick a team.” he said, studying the menu.
Sonny watched closely.
Large humans collided at high speeds. One man was praised for violently tackling another. The crowd cheered.
“This is…ritual combat,” Sonny said.
“Basically,” Chad nodded.
Sonny studied the teams carefully.
Some wore bright colors. Some wore stripes. Some had mascots that appeared non-threatening.
Then Sonny saw them.
Black jerseys. Silver helmets. A pirate logo.
“Who are those?” Sonny asked.
“The Raiders,” Chad said. “Why?”
Sonny’s eyes widened. “They dress for intimidation,” Sonny said. “They have chosen darkness and metal.”
Chad looked at the TV and squinted. “Yeah…I guess.”
“I choose them,” Sonny declared.
“Bro—you can’t just choose the Raiders,” Chad said. “You don’t even know where they’re from.”
Sonny shrugged. “They appear formidable. Their aesthetic suggests danger. I respect this.”
The Raiders scored. Sonny stood up and pumped his fist.
“Yes,” he said calmly. “Violence has rewarded them.”
Chad stared. “You’re…rooting for the Raiders?”
“Yes,” Sonny said. “They are clearly the apex predators.”
Over the next hour, Sonny became increasingly invested.
Every hard hit earned solemn approval. Every penalty confused him.
“Why is aggression punished?” Sonny asked. “This is a combat sport.”
Chad sighed.
At one point, the Raiders lost yardage. Sonny frowned deeply. “They are dishonoring their armor,” he said.
By the end of the game, Sonny had committed fully. He crossed his arms. He nodded at the screen. He spoke in quiet, absolute statements. “They will recover.” “They are not afraid.” “This is temporary weakness.”
When the Raiders lost, Sonny remained unshaken. “This is acceptable,” he said. “True warriors suffer.”
Chad looked at him. “You picked the Raiders knowing they might suck?”
“Yes,” Sonny said. “Winning is not the point.”
Chad blinked. “Then what is?”
Sonny thought for a moment. “Loyalty,” he said. “And intimidation. And looking good while doing it.”
Sonny took out his Earth Log device and started writing.
Humans choose allegiance to sports teams for many reasons. Geography. Family. History. I chose mine based on armor and threat level. Chad says this will bring me pain. I am prepared.
Chad looked around and muttered, “Where’s our waitress?”