Saturday, 9 February 1995
At ZEB, Zaboru and Walt Disney were seated at the podium with microphones in front of them. Below the stage, a crowd of reporters eagerly waited to ask their questions. Cameras were positioned throughout the venue, broadcasting the event live on television networks across the United States, Europe, and Japan.
Zaboru smiled confidently and leaned slightly toward the microphone. "Good afternoon, everyone. We're here today to hold a press conference and address any questions you may have regarding ZAGE's acquisition of 50% of Disney shares. I'm sure you all have a lot on your mind, so feel free to ask anything—whether it's directed to me or to Mr. Disney."
A flurry of hands shot into the air almost instantly. The room was packed with reporters from major news outlets around the globe, their excitement and urgency palpable. Zaboru scanned the crowd thoughtfully before pointing to a bald reporter seated in the middle row. The man stood up quickly, clutching his notepad, eager to speak. He was a seasoned journalist from a major U.S. news network, known for asking sharp, pointed questions.
"Mr. Disney, I have a question. You've long been known for your steadfast refusal to sell Disney shares, even when offered staggering amounts of money. Rumors have also suggested that you've been quietly searching for a successor. With this new development, can we now say that Zaboru Renkonan of ZAGE is officially your chosen successor?"
Walt Disney smiled and said, "Well, it's true—I've never really cared much about money. In fact, I was the one who approached ZAGE to buy into Disney, not the other way around. And why? Let's just say I had a 'hunch.' You all know what I mean—sometimes, something just clicks. It's been a long time since I've felt that spark, but when I met Zaboru and saw what he was building with ZAGE, I knew this was it. If ZAGE takes the reins, I believe it can lift Disney back to its golden era, maybe even beyond. So yes, I can say with complete confidence that Zaboru is my chosen successor at Disney."
Zaboru chuckled, prompting a wave of surprise from the reporters. Pens flew across notepads as they hurried to jot down every word. Just as the room settled, a female reporter stood up, signaling the next question. She directed her inquiry to Zaboru.
"Mr. Renkonan, now that you have the blessing of Walt Disney himself, how do you plan to guide Disney's future? Will the company shift its focus more toward video games under your leadership, or will it continue its tradition of producing animated films?"
Zaboru smiled and responded, "Let me make one thing clear—I will not force Disney to become a game company. Disney will continue to be what it has always been: a storytelling giant focused on enchanting audiences through animation and imagination. Even under my leadership, that core identity will not change. I personally promise to uphold Disney's legacy by delivering movies that meet—and hopefully exceed—the expectations tied to its reputation.
"As for video games, ZAGE will likely develop original titles using Disney IP. But let me assure you, we won't cut corners. These won't be rushed or careless projects—we will treat Disney properties with the same creativity, care, and craftsmanship that defines ZAGE. In fact, we see it as an opportunity to bring Disney magic into interactive experiences that reach a new generation of fans."
The questions continued, and the next came from another male reporter who stood up and adjusted his glasses. "Mr. Renkonan," he began, his voice firm, "with the acquisition of Disney, ZAGE's fame is expected to rise even further across the globe. Do you feel any additional pressure that comes with this newfound spotlight and responsibility?"
Zaboru smiled and answered, "Honestly? Not really. Even without the Disney acquisition, we at ZAGE have always prepared ourselves to be at the top of our industry. We've worked hard, stayed ahead of the curve, and remained committed to our vision. The acquisition of Disney doesn't change our mindset—it just adds another milestone to our journey. We were ready before, and we're just as ready now."
Walt Disney let out a hearty laugh and gave Zaboru a firm pat on the shoulder. It was a bold response but the right response.
Then another question was directed to Walt Disney. "Mr. Disney, how does the U.S. government feel about a Japanese company acquiring a majority stake in one of America's largest entertainment companies? Do you have any comments on that?"
Walt Disney grinned and replied, "No, they will not. This was entirely my decision." The reporter considered pressing further but ultimately chose to hold back, allowing the next question to proceed.
"Mr. Renkonan, what is the next project you have planned for Disney? Earlier, you mentioned that a movie is already in development—can you give us a sneak peek or a hint about what it might be?"
Zaboru smiled and replied, "Yes, we're already working on a movie project. It's still in the starter stages, but I can assure you it's something special—something that honors Disney's legacy while introducing a fresh, imaginative twist. As for the details… well, I'm afraid that's still a secret," he added with a chuckle. "But I promise, it will be worth the wait."
Another reporter stood up, holding a recorder close to his mouth. "Mr. Disney, many are curious—do you see this partnership as a temporary arrangement, or do you envision ZAGE and Disney working together long-term?"
Walt nodded thoughtfully. "This isn't just a short-term deal. I see this as the beginning of a long-lasting collaboration. We share similar values when it comes to creativity, innovation, and storytelling. I believe ZAGE will help usher in a new era while staying true to what Disney has always stood for."
More hands went up. A European journalist was chosen. "Will there be any changes to the existing structure of Disney's animation departments or leadership teams?"
Zaboru shook his head. "There's no plan to replace or dismantle what's already working well. We aim to support and enhance, not disrupt. If anything, expect to see increased collaboration across departments and between our two companies to generate even more groundbreaking content."
The questions and answers continued to flow until the press conference finally came to a close. One of the most intriguing revelations to emerge was that it had been Walt Disney himself who approached Zaboru with the idea of the acquisition—not the other way around. This surprising fact, combined with Disney's open acknowledgment of Zaboru as his chosen successor, significantly elevated Zaboru's public profile.
Later that evening, Zaboru leaned back in his chair at his ZAGE USA office, the weight of the day finally settling in. He stared at the ceiling for a moment, then let out a breathless laugh. "I can't believe I own Disney now... Unbelievable." A smirk crossed his face. "Well, I won't let it fall apart. Not on my watch. Under my leadership, Disney will stay Disney—even as the world modernizes." He chuckled quietly to himself, a mix of excitement and determination flickering in his eyes.
To be continue
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