Bates forced a smile as his son Ethan chatted excitedly about joining the new Phoenix Guild expedition. The boy was the only power user among the novice group, awakened by an early portal mishap.
"This first mission is going to be epic!" Ethan said, eyes shining. "Do you think the other guilds will respect us now that I'm awakened?"
Bates ruffled the boy's hair affectionately. "I'm sure they will, son. Your abilities make you destined for great things."
In truth, Bates cared little whether the mission succeeded. He had secured the permits through less-than-lawful connections solely as leverage for his ongoing demonic schemes.
Still, seeing Ethan's pure enthusiasm ignited a flicker of guilt in Bates for involving his child in this world. Perhaps the boy's idealism could be an anchor for Bates' own corrupted compass.
"I'm proud you're living your dream, but be careful in the portals," Bates said seriously. "It's a dangerous realm."
Ethan gave him a reassuring smile. "Don't worry, Dad, I can handle myself now! And my teammates have my back."
Bates wished he shared his son's confidence. But at least if things went awry, his demon allies' influence might force a rescue. Probably.
He clasped Ethan's shoulder. "You're right, just getting an old man's jitters. Go show those guilds what Phoenix is made of!"
After Ethan left to ready for departure, Bates poured himself a stiff drink. He suddenly regretted letting greed and ambition blind him to noble paths. But it was too late to turn back now.
Gazing out at the sunset, Bates murmured a tentative prayer - for his son's safety, and perhaps his own redemption before the end.
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"Good morning, this is Angie Thompson reporting for CNBC's Wall Street Wakeup. Today we have a portal industry update.
Shares of leading awakened explorer company Fournier Enterprises are up over 6% so far this quarter after last week's announcement of a major partnership with the Chamber Portal Research group.
Analysts say this collaboration gives Fournier access to new aura awakening technology developed by CPR's Dr. Amber Phip. With exclusive rights to these methods, Fournier is poised to dramatically expand its explorer teams in a controversial but profitable move.
This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.
However, competitor GateCruisers Unlimited, parent of the Flowers Guild, continues to spiral after insider reports of financial troubles. GateCruisers stock has plunged 22% year-to-date, with no recovery in sight.
Most experts we spoke to believe GateCruisers will inevitably be acquired or go bankrupt now that Fournier has seized the industry lead. The non-profit CPR's alliance has left GateCruisers out in the cold.
So for investors, Fournier remains the only real portal play, and analysts are bullish on its prospects. As CEO Adrian Fournier told us, awakening is the future.
We'll be monitoring the continuing shake-up in this sector closely. For CNBC, this is Angie Thompson reporting from Wall Street. Back to you, Judy."
"Good morning, I'm Tom Wells with breaking news on the latest major acquisition in the portal exploration industry.
Moments ago, Bates Group announced it has agreed to purchase the struggling GateCruisers Unlimited corporation, parent of the Flowers Guild, for an undisclosed sum.
This news comes after months of financial turmoil for GateCruisers since the downfall of disgraced CEO John Masters. The company narrowly avoided bankruptcy last quarter.
Many expected market leader Fournier Enterprises to eventually snap up GateCruisers' assets and teams. But this surprise deal hands ownership to billionaire investor Gregory Bates instead.
In a statement, Bates said he looks forward to revitalizing the Flowers Guild and upholding its 'tradition of explorer excellence and ethics.' Analysts noted Bates' strong ties to the Portal Security Agency likely factored into the acquisition.
The purchase is welcome news for GateCruisers' remaining leadership like Sofia Price, who feared the total collapse of the once dominant firm under Fournier's relentless growth.
With Bates' deep pockets and PSA sway backing them, the Flowers Guild may remain a competitor after all. But serious challenges still loom in closing the yawning gap with mighty Fournier Enterprises.
For CNBC, I'm Tom Wells reporting. We'll have continuing coverage on this developing business story."
Mitch shifted uneasily outside Director Black's office as he finished his meeting with billionaire Gregory Bates. Something about their hushed conversation left Mitch deeply unsettled.
As Bates finally exited, his eyes narrowed slightly seeing Mitch waiting there. "Mr. Striges," he said coolly in passing.
"Mr. Bates," Mitch returned, barely keeping his tone civil. The aura of cold ambition surrounding the man was palpable.
Director Black welcomed Mitch in warmly, but his smile seemed distracted. "Apologies you had to wait, my boy. Mr. Bates had some confidential business to discuss."
"I'll bet," Mitch said carefully. "Seemed like tense talk for two old friends."
Black raised an eyebrow. "You mistake the tone. Gregory was just concerned about matters you needn't worry over."
Mitch felt his skepticism must be written on his face. Black sighed and stood, clapping Mitch's shoulder.
"Walk with me, son. I know you've become Clara's eyes and ears lately. Understandable, but unnecessary."
He guided Mitch down the hall away from eavesdroppers. "There are always competing agendas, but we aim for the same righteous outcome in the end."
Mitch nodded slowly, still unsure what to believe. He remembered Clara's warnings about Black overstepping in his zeal.
"Of course, sir. I know you just want what's best for the people," Mitch said carefully.
Black smiled. "Precisely. Never doubt that, Mitch." He gave Mitch's shoulder a final paternal squeeze before departing.
But some lingering doubt festered in Mitch's mind. Bates' shadowy presence here was troubling, as was Black's defensiveness.
For now, Mitch could only keep his eyes open and report back to Clara. They had to uncover whatever machinations were quietly unfolding behind the facade of service and security.
Too much was at stake to risk more lives falling victim to powerful men's agendas. Mitch would find the truth somehow, no matter how deeply hidden or highly placed.