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013 Appendix

Masters of Exploitation: Unmasking the Faceless Greed Behind Portal Profiteering

By Reed Hayes

John Masters - CEO, visionary entrepreneur, beloved philanthropist or ruthless opportunist? For years, his supporters and detractors alike have traded barbs over the controversial figure. But a three-month investigation by this reporter reveals startling new depths to the unethical practices powering Masters' portal exploration empire.

On the surface, Masters projects the image of a modern wizard spreading magic through the wonders of portal science. His Flower Guild dominates the industry thanks to star portal pioneers like Sofia Price and Mei Quezon.

But peel back this glossy veneer, and the rotten foundation comes into focus - built upon exploitation, lives discarded as cheap fuel. The true cost of portal profiteering is human, and it is shockingly steep.

Based on internal documents and whistleblower testimonies, Masters conducts dangerous expeditions into unstable portals using misled military veterans and civilian contractors seeking purpose.

These unwitting souls are procedurally stripped of insurance and legal protections, then sent through deadly portals without proper briefings. The casualty rates are staggering - 43% never return, their fates unknown.

Survivors speak of harrowing encounters with inhuman creatures and physics-defying hazards. "We were utterly unprepared," says Sgt. Roy Cooper, who lost an arm on his first and only mission. "It was a death sentence."

The author's tale has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

When casualties or malpractice suits threaten Flower Guild's pristine image, Masters reportedly uses intimidation and bribery to bury the truth. Millions in hush money and political "donations" ensure officials look the other way.

But leaked expense reports reveal where the massive portal profits truly flow. Over 75% lines Masters' own pockets and funds vanity projects like his sprawling estate. Token amounts go to R&D or worker benefits.

This naked avarice costs untold lives and suffering. And for what? To fuel one man's depraved narcissism and gluttony. The human toll is unconscionable.

But we cannot idly accept this status quo, lest our very souls be forfeit. The public must demand accountability and justice. Portal pioneers should unite for ethical standards, not enable exploitation.

Our world is changing rapidly, with both darkness and wonders emerging. How we respond defines our humanity. Will we allow the callous greed of the few to chart our course? Or strengthen the light of justice and conscience as our guiding stars into this brave new future?

The choice is ours, collectively. The portal profiteers have ruled unrestrained for too long, but engaged citizens united can dethrone these false idols. Where true integrity persists, hope endures. The righteous path still lies open, if we dare walk it, together.

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Astounding Astor's Secret Double Life Exposed!

By Glenda Gossip

He's the poster boy explorer that Fournier Enterprises parades endlessly before the media - Astor, the heroic boy psychic phenomenally overcoming tragedy through the wonders of portal science. But your intrepid Gossip Gazette has discovered that beyond the PR buffed image lurks a far more scandalous reality!

For starters, multiple sources close to Astor confirm that the perpetual smile he flashes during interviews is 100% fake. "The cameras turn off and it's like a light switches off in his eyes," describes an insider. "Totally lifeless, gives you chills." Sounds like the toll of fame at a young age!

But even more shockingly, Astor may in fact resent being Fournier's prized propaganda puppet! The same source reveals that Astor secretly despises the company and his mentor Dr. Miles, complaining about them frequently. Is an ugly feud brewing behind the scenes?

Not only that, but Astor displays decidedly diva behavior when the cameras aren't rolling. Reports of tantrums, throwing things, and sudden tears emerge from multiple production staffers. "A total nightmare," grouses a former associate. "Nothing like the angelic image they invented."

So what's the real story here? Is Astor's saintly explorer persona just manufactured PR to hide a coddled celeb brat? And how long until this rebellious teen blows up his sterling reputation completely? The mind reels imagining what jaw-dropping scandals we've yet to uncover!

Rest assured, intrepid readers, your trusty Gossip Gazette will keep relentlessly sniffing out the shocking truth Astounding Astor doesn't want you to know! His secrets can't stay buried forever...