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SECOND DAY ON KAITAIN. ========================= Courtyard -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Iron gates open onto a broad, flat courtyard. White Marcinko Pines dot the grassy landscape, and men and women in purple and black Ginaz livery can be seen strolling along several long paths through it. A straight path leads up to the entrance of the Embassy proper, ending at two broad wooden doors. The Embassy itself practically gleams in any sunlight, the outer walls crafted of a simple dark blue granite flecked with silver, native to Marcinko. At night, dramatic uplighting along the walls of the Embassy accentuates its beauty, and the paths are all well-lit with functional but attractive lampposts. The Embassy appears to be square in design, with little embellishment save the natural beauty of the materials from which it was constructed. The effect is austere and elegant without being flashy. Ornithopters can be seen flitting around one corner of the roof. The only truly ornate thing about the courtyard is the intricately crafted fence that surrounds the whole of it. Exits: Heavy Wooden Doors <N> leads to Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Iron Gates <E> leads to Negara II Plaza -- Embassy District (Kaitain) Over your communicator's secure frequency, a man's voice says, "Message from vehicle 2002, bound for Ginaz Embassy, requesting clearance, "Lt. Stavros arriving by invitation."" You clear the vehicle over your communicator. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- ______________________Dune III Player Data Sheet: Lucia______________________ Fullname: Lucia Stavros Faction: Atreides Title: Lieutenant Position: Commander of the Peers Address: Lieutenant Stavros Age: 36 Background: Lucia is the daughter of House Minor Baron Stavros. Her father is the administrator of the ecology reserves and wilderness areas of Caladan, where she was born and raised. Convinced that Baron Stavros' influence over his adventurous daughter was too strong, the Baroness decided to send Lucia to stay with her maternal uncle. It was during this first trip off-world that Lucia discovered her love of travel and adventure was greater than her sense of familial duty. She stayed with her uncle just a short while before hitching a ride on an outbound heighliner. Over the years, she's been heard from only now and then as she planet-hopped across the universe. She's had many adventures and will gladly tell about them over a glass of ale. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Lucia exits the Atreides Staffcar. Lucia has arrived. The Atreides Staffcar departs the area. Sisay curtseys gracefully and says: "Hello Lieutenant. Thank you for accepting my invitation." Lucia hops from the car and takes a few steps forward, bowing, "My Lady. I must say it was somewhat unexpected." Sisay says: "Oh. Do excuse me. I arrived recently on Kaitain and I must say I was getting quite lonely as my uncle is kept with political business." Lucia smiles, "Ah...understandable. I find the capital to be a lonely place myself at times." Lucia just looked at you. Sisay walks a few steps and says: "Oh yes, and pretty big aswell. I did hear you had numerous adventures in the past, is that true?" Lucia Lucia's long black hair is pulled back into a thick braid that reaches about half-way down her back. Her eyes are dark, almost black, and set wide apart over high cheekbones. A thin, delicate nose and lips compliment her sharp chin. She is about six feet tall in her boots and she wears black cloth pants tucked into her boots and a white poet's blouse, with full sleeves gathered at the wrist, and a loose collar. A grey whaleskin vest and a belt with shield, low across her hips, complete the outfit. A slip-tip is only partially concealed in her left boot. Lucia nods, keeping pace, "Yes, My Lady. I'm afraid I don't take boredom well. It gets me in trouble." She grins wickedly. Sisay smiles broadly and motions toward the embassy: "Would you like to go inside for a drink maybe?" Lucia nods, "That would be most pleasant, thank you, m'Lady." Sisay smiles and says: "Follow me, then." You walk through the Heavy Wooden Doors. Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain)(#600RntJ) Ceilings of gilded marble float high above the floor, supported by thick-looking pillars, which appear to be crafted of gold-shot white marble. High arches and sweeping buttresses help to accentuate the sheer size of this space. Each corner of the room has a large desk with an attendant seated at it. Many guards are posted all around the room; although this place is often filled with throngs of people there are always plenty of guards clearly visible and clearly in control of the situation. The floor appears to be of marble tiles, some black and some purple. A large House Ginaz banner hangs down from the ceiling. Exits: Elevator <U> leads to Gardens -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Sliding Glass Doors <N> leads to Formal Reception Room -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Arch with Pine Doors <E> leads to Staff Offices Wing -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Heavy Wooden Doors <S> leads to Courtyard -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Gilded Doors <W> leads to Residential Wing -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Arch <NW> leads to The Commons Wing -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Lucia walks in from Courtyard through the Heavy Wooden Doors. Lucia has arrived. You walk through the Sliding Glass Doors. Formal Reception Room -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Dark wood and minimal but comfortable accommodations seem to be the hallmark of this gathering place. Comfortable-looking chairs are scattered in small clumps around the room, and a small bar hosts a comprehensive drink and snack service. The floor is of a soft, padded gray carpet and the walls are simple, exposed dark wood, with several abstract paintings providing the only ornamentation. The lighting is easily adjustable, and a retractable screen and projector setup sit in the corner, out of the way. Exits: Sliding Glass Doors <S> leads to Foyer -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Lucia walks in from Foyer through the Sliding Glass Doors. Lucia has arrived. Sisay takes a seat motioning you should do the same. "What would you like to have?" Lucia glances around and selects a nearby chair, "Whatever you have is fine with me." Sisay calls a servant and says: "Caladanian wine please, for me and my guest." She sighs deeply and asks: "I wonder, do many men of the Atreides army train at our school?" Lucia says, "Well...um...as you may know, My Lady, our Commander Valerian was once Kommandant of the Ginaz Sword School. Most of our military does not train to be swordmasters, however. They are soldiers, infantry and such. There's a large difference in what is expected of them."" Sisay goes "Ah" and nods solemnly. She says "I found Swordmastery to be quite a challenging training. Much to my father's dismay, I trained for a few years hoping to find my brothers assasin and avenge his death." A servant come in with a silver tray carrying two glasses. He serves the wine to you and Lady Sisay retreating silently. Lucia takes a sip from her wine glass and says, "You have you met the Venhei Swordmaster?" <Ginaz> Phillip has connected. Sisay takes a quick sip fro mher win saying: "No, I havent. I did most of my training with uncle Jacob in private for fear of another assasination attempt. But I might have seen him around, I don't know." <Ginaz> Phillip waves. <Ginaz> Sisay says, "Hello :)))" <Ginaz> Sisay says, "Finally, this place is getting excining... I have invited Lucia to our embasyy, I was getting bored :)" Lucia nods, "I understand that the Marquis is planning some kind of arena event, a chance for swordsmen...and women...to display their skills. Jereth mentioned it to me. He's the Venhei Swordmaster. Good with a blade. No dirty tricks." She grins, "I suppose dirty tricks are against the rules." <Ginaz> Phillip says, "Cool. I know her ICly. :) How are you today, cuz?" Sisay says: "The rules must be obeyed, of course. Maybe I'll have chance to cros swords with him then. I'd be a honor for me, I'm sure." She giggles merrily and wonders: "Did he fight many battles?" <Ginaz> Sisay says, "Fine... It was very boring untill Lucia and you entered... everone was idling... I explored Kaitan quite well :)" -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- _____________________Dune III Player Data Sheet: Jereth______________________ Fullname: Jereth Crane Faction: Venhei Title: First Lord Position: Swordmaster Address: Master Age: 28 Background: Hereth was born the son of Jor and Elera Crane on the planet Marcinko. The Cranes were a Minor House under the hospice of House Ginaz. Being the youngest of 3 sons, Jereth was ignored quite a bit and worked in one of the many factories on-planet at the age of 15. When he reached 20, his father found it fitting to send him to the Academy of Warfare and present him as a gift to the House Ginaz. He regretted being a pawn for his father but was also happy to be out of the factory.. He was a hard worker, mostly keeping to himself. He graduated one of the tops in his class. He received two long scars on his chest from a training accident, but was in fine health besides that. Upon graduation, he was disappointed to find out that he wasn't going to be joining House Ginaz, but was being sent to join House Venhei. He decided to just let it go and see what happens next. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- <Ginaz> Phillip says, "Mind if I join ya?" <Ginaz> Sisay says, "Please do!" Lucia leans back in her chair and takes another sip of her wine, "I'm not sure how your intended will feel about risking his bride-to-be in the arena." She smiles easily and holds up the glass to look at the color of the wine in the light. Phillip walks in from Foyer through the Sliding Glass Doors. Phillip has arrived. Sisay gets a sad look on her face and mumbles: "Oh? So you heard that that too?" Sisay suddenly jumps out of her chair greeting Phillip merrily. Lucia laughs lightly, "My Lady, I am the personal bodyguard of Her Grace...it is my business to know everything that affects her." Sisay sighs deeply and says: "Lucia, I think you already know my cousin Phillip..." Lucia rises from her chair and bows, "Yes, we've met." She smiles and glances from Sisay to Phillip and back. Phillip returns the bow and smiles to the two in the room. "Hello Lieutenant - cuz - I hope I'm not interrupting something." Sisay becons Phillip to sit on one of the chairs. Sitting down, she says: "No, Phillp, on the contrary. I was getting introduced to my future destiny if I may say so..." Lucia settles back into her chair, "All nobles are marriage fodder. It is the nature of the beast, I'm afraid." -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- _____________________Dune III Player Data Sheet: Mintor______________________ Fullname: Mintor Atreides Faction: Atreides Title: Na-Duke Position: Duchess' brother and Swordmaster Address: Lord Atreides Age: 29 Background: Dynamic, over-achieving, and extroverted, Mintor is the first Atreides in ten generations to make Ginaz Swordmaster. He is warm, loyal, fair, highly honourable, strong-willed, bold, daring, self-righteous. He loves a good duel, and follows the ways of Kanly carefully. Mintor has a tendency to want to travel and see new things. His wanderlust has recently wore off, but it is uncertain if it is because of his new-found maturity, or his homesickness. If challenged, Mintor will follow the noble ways set down by his forefathers, and would never cheat. He is a tenth level Ginaz Swordsmaster, and so is slightly over-confident in his abilities. -=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-==-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=- Phillip finds a chair of his own and settles into. He nods as Lucia speaks, showing complete agreement to what she has just said. Sisay sighs deeply glancing quickly at Phillip and says: "So it might be. What does Her Grace think of it, if I may ask?" Lucia says, "Of which, My Lady?" Phillip looks to his cousin to try to pick up on more of the conversation. Sisay says: "About a Ginaz posibly marrying the na-Duke?" then she turns to Phillip and asks: "Can I get you anything to drink, cuz?" Lucia says, "Oh. I believe she helped arrange it. For political reasons, naturally. To cement an alliance. You can understand how important such a thing will be to both Houses, My Lady." Phillip shakes his head, "Thank you, but no thank you for now. I'm not too thirsty at the moment." Sisay smiles at Phillip and says in a neutral tone: "That I understand perfectly. How about the Atreides saying that they support men not Houses? How about... free will?" Lucia laughs, "My Lady...everyone has free will. You...I...Lord Metternich. It merely depends on how far you are willing to go to flout the rules of the society in which you live. For example, I rarely feel bound by the rules of the nobility but I am also willing to accept the consequences of my actions. Are you, My Lady?" The Ginaz nature of the young lady seems to be shining - power flows from the people. A small smile comes upon Phillip's face as he listens on, not sure if his cousin realizes this or not. Sisay gets an almost imperceptible saddened look on her face. Managing to keep her neutral tone she says: "My loyalty to my uncle is very deep. A promise is a promise and I will honor it fully. I wonder if a meeting could be arranged with the na-Duke?" Lucia nods, "I'm certain it can be arranged, My Lady. He is, after all, courting you." Phillip simply listens as he leans back in his chair a bit more. Sisay takes a thorrough sip from her wine glass. For a second she lets the wine make its effect on her body and soul. Leaning more comfortably in her chair she says:"This might even become interesting. As you probably know, I stayed at my fathers house untill my recent arrival on Kaitain." Lucia says, "Oh...?" She isn't sure what Sisay is getting at, but she nods agreeably, "and?" Phillip continues to listen quietly. Sisay takes another quick sip from her wine saying: "And except my training with my uncle and the School and my fairly long trips into the woods, I haven't seen much of the world. I have read about Caladan and it's blue seas and I think that my destiny will undaubtedly drive me towards the adventure I was expecting..." Lucia smiles, "Is that how you feel, My Lady? Like adventure is calling you? I can understand that...I answered the call when I was fourteen years old." Phillip turns to Lucia, not knowing what she is potentially about to explain, and says, "Oh milady? That sounds interesting. Would you care to share your story with us?" Sisay says in an almost dreamy voice: "Yes... Tell me, tell me about your adventures Lieutenant, tell me about the universe and its wonders..." Lucia finishes her glass of wine and shrugs, "I don't know about wonders...lots of danger and excitement out there, though...although...a big moon hanging in the sky over the Caladan seas as the sailing ship glids silently across the waters...the air is so sweet, you can smell the spices off the islands. Cinnamon, nutmeg. Then the peaceful night explodes with cannon fire and we'd board the yacht...." She sighs, "Of course, we were caught after two years and most of my fellow ship-mates were sent off to prisons or executed." Lucia smiles. Phillip grins, "Sounds like quite the time." Sisay waves to a servant saying: "More wine please." She gets more comfortable in her chair, hugging herself while saying: "Oh... This sounds very exciting, isn't it Phillip? And how did you escape?" Lucia shakes her head, "I'm afraid I didn't, but I was underage and a nobleman's daughter. I was sentenced to two years in ballrooms and salons, wearing lacy dresses and dancing with young men with sweaty palms. I'd have preferred a nice quiet prison, believe me. The minute I got the chance, I ran away again. Gamont." Phillip says, "Sounds like a justified get away to me." He hails the servant and also requests a drink. Sisay laughs merrily and says in a giggling voice: "And what did your family say? My father always gave me a hourly lecture after one of my expeditions in the forests..." Lucia smiles at Sisay, "My sense of duty wasn't as...refined as yours, My Lady. Lectures were nightly, my mother felt that my father had ruined me forever and I'd never be able to make a decent marriage. Once I reached Gamont, though, they didn't see me again for many years. I stowed away on a smuggler's ship and went a-rovin'." Phillip smiles and listens on. Sisay says: "Refined... come on." and giggles merrily. She says: "When you spend days wandering about, getting lost having to fight huge bears with nothing than a small army-knife, getting dirty all over, I don't think that's very refined if you ask me." and giggles merrily. Lucia smiles at Sisay's comment, then picks up her refilled wine glass and sips it, "My father raised me like one of his sons...we spent more time out in the Reserves, camping and hunting, than ever we did in society salons. Maybe my mother was right? In any event...they were choices I made. I live with the scars and toast the rest. Just as you will have to make your own choices, My Lady." Phillip smiles, "Just listening to this makes me look back on my own youth. I know realize how boring my life was." Sisay gets the slightly scraed look on her face again. You think that underneath her noble skin lies a frightened child, afraid of the unknown future. In an attempt to save herself off dark thoughts she looks at Phillip and asks: "Boring? WHat do you mean?" Lucia glances at Phillip, "Your life is far from over, My Lord." Phillip shrugs. "You're right Lieutenant. I just wish I hadn't spent all my time couped up in a massive old castle." Sisay says: "I've ben in the Foothill district today, peeking towards the Gesserit Chapterhouse. I think I saw a Reverend Mother with some acolytes there doing some strange exercises. I wonder what the Bene Gesserit is up to these days..." Lucia says, "Since I've come to Kaitain, I've fought the na-Baron Harkonnen and been drugged by his sword. I've sparred with a Harkonnen Lieutenant and almost mortally wounded. I've flirted with noblemen and rogues...I won't say which of them I bedded..." She stops and looks to Sisay, somewhat startled by the change of topic, "What they're always up to, My Lady."" Phillip says, "I too was there not too long ago; devious little tricks to get the secrets of the universe." Sisay beams and says: "Secrets of the universe! That can only be achieved with a blade in your hand, don't you think so, Lieutenant?" Lucia sips her wine thoughtfully, then answers, her voice soft, low, "On the contrary. The blade is for killing. It is an instrument, a tool. Like any other. The secrets of the universe are found in...an empty hand." She holds up her hand, showing and empty palm. With a smile, she waves her hand to show back and front, and when she shows her palm again, there is a small medallion held there. Phillip raises a brow in curiousity, "Most interesting Lieutenant; a clever trick indeed." He pauses for a moment, "A blade, now there's something I've not handled in some time..." Sisay widenes her eyes in sincere admiration. She whisper softly as if she wouldn't want to cancel the spell: "How'd you do that?" Lucia shrugs and with a movement of her fingers, the medallion disappears again, "Merely a bit of sleight of hand, My Lady. An illusion, like so much of our society." Sisay sighs deeply and looks at Lucia admiring her deeply. The she pokes Phillip sofly in the ribs and says: "Care for a training session cuz? Bet you won't manage to get past my shield." and giggles merrily. Lucia finishes her wine and gets to her feet, "Thank you so much for your hospitality, My Lady. I must return now to my duties." Phillip rubs the spot where she poked him and smiles. "Of course, cuz, like I said, it's been too long." He looks up to Lucia and nods to her. "Of course Lieutenant, it has been a pleasure having you here today." Lucia bows, "I can see myself out." Sisay curtseys gracefully and thanks Lucia for her time. Lucia walks to the south and passes through the Sliding Glass Doors. Lucia has left. Sisay smiles happily and sips some more of her forgotten glass of wine then says: "Quite an interesting discussion, won;t you say?" Phillip nods, "Quite. I'm willing to take you up on your offer now." Sisay raises her eyebrow and says: "So be it, cousin. Lead the way." and giggles merrily. Phillip smiles and stands up. He waves his hand for her to follow. Phillip walks to the south and passes through the Sliding Glass Doors. Phillip has left. Training Room -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) The smell of sweat pervades the air despite the efforts of several overworked air purifiers. The floor is entirely covered with a firm black mat, and the walls of the room are lined with racks that hold various weapons. At any time of day or night, there are always people in here practicing martial arts, swordfighting, and weaponry of all types. There are some small classes, groups of students mimicking a teacher's maneuvers, but the majority of the people in the room are sparring one-on-one or in smaller groups. A small door to the northeast is filled with steam, apparently leading to public showers. Players: Phillip Exits: Plasteel Doors <W> leads to Swordmaster's Office -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Plasteel Doors <N> leads to The Commons Wing -- Ginaz Embassy (Kaitain) Sisay rushes to the racks and takes a shieldbelt which she quickly tightens around her waist. From another rack she chooses a slender sword and returns before you. Phillip takes off his uniform jacket, revealing a simple, loose-fitting shirt underneath. He lays it over a chair and heads to the weapons rack to select something to use. He takes a shield belt and a broad saber. Sisay powers her shield up and salutes you gracefully with her sword. Phillip returns the salute and taps on his belt. He stands, sword out before him, waiting for you to make the first move. Sisay leans slightly to the front, flexing her feet to achieve stability. She tiptoes slightly in a circle around you with her eyes pointed straight into yours. With a playful tone she taunts: "May your blade chip and shatter." It doesn't seem like Phillip's cousin will strike soon. He follows her as she circles him. Seemingly unaffected by her taunt, he simply smiles and says, "Yes...I'm sure it will." He continues to follow her as she circles him, allowing tension to build as he still appears rather calm. Sisay continues the circling panther-like motion around you lookin you straight into the eyes. Smiling she says: "Defense may buy you time, cousin, but not for long." Before finishing the last word Sisay jumps rapidly towards you. The blades clash and the blow is deflected by your shield. (OOC) Phillip says, "Nice pose, but chances are that I'll tell you what my blade does. :p" Phillip springs back quickly and brings his blade down in one fell swoop to try to deflect yours. Sisay seems to have lost her balance as the deflected blow carries her to the ground. She quickly rolls on the floor jumping on her feet in a swift movement at your side. Her blade strikes switfly to your waist. The blade's speed might just be enogh for it to penetrate the shield. Phillip is caught off guard as he was forced forward, and out of view, by your fall. The blade does indeed make it through the shield, but as soon as he feels cold steel slice into his shirt, he gracefully falls to the side to try to regain control of himself. Sisay, dazzled by your fall jumps bakcward and gets a tight grip of her sword placing it in a defending position before her. She mumbles: "Almost got you there..." Phillip grins as he gets back on his feet. "Guess so." He brings his blade infront of him and waits for you to strike again. Sisay slowly approaches you again. Within a swords length of your shield she suddenly turns around. With her back at you she quickly changes the swords position from the right to the left hand. Continuing her turn she faces you again and strikes with her sword forward. Phillip lunges forward and meets your blade with his. He deflects it and quickly swings his towards your chest, slowing his attack as his blade nears your sheild. Sisay widens her eyes as she is caught off guard. As she notices the blade entering the shield she falls flat on her back then rolls on the floor and in a swift movement raises to her feet again. Given momentul by the roll she swings her sword wildly agains you. Phillip again springs back to keep from her wild movements. Sisay moves forward and strikes at you with a powerfull blow. You are amazed of the blow's strength, who could believe little Sisay would be capable of such strenght. She switches the blade again from one hand in the other preparing for another attack. Phillip falls to the floor and brings up his blade to deflect the blow. He pushes your blade back, but not before it comes all too close his face. "Nice," he says as he quickly swings his blade around to try to hit your leg. Sisay jumps up, your blade meeting nothing but thin air. Sisay falls above you, shields tingling with static as she drives her sword inches above your neck. "Nice? How 'bout this?" Phillip stops for a moment, "Quite good. Look over your shoulder." One hand is on his hilt and the other raised onto the dull edge of his blade. It's raised just above your back, right behind your heart and lungs. He must have drawn it up when you landed on him, and it looks like one forceful pull would cut you in half. With a smile, he says, "We'd both be gone." Sisay with the eyes sparkling with battle frenzy steps off you and unpowers her shield the says in a broad smile: "Nice fight, cousin, I kindof needed that." She grabs a towel and throws it to you while taking another to sweep the sweat of her face. Phillip gets up and taps of his shield. He catches the towel and wipes of his face while he lays his sword on the rack. A smile on his face, he nods, "Quite good. We must do this more often." Sisay says: "Anytime, cousin, anytime." She puts the sword and the shield belt on the rack. She throws herself on the floor, breathing heavily and runs her hand through her hair. With a thoughtfull voice she asks more to herself: "These Atreides. I wonder how much this alliance might be worth for them..." Phillip shrugs, "I wish I knew. You can /never/ tell a House's true intents. Don't let them push you around, though. I don't like the idea of this marraige anymore than you do." Sisay nods absent-mindedly while caressing her curly hair. "I think I must prepare myself for a talk and a visit to 'His Grace'" Sisay says with a bitter smile. Phillip smiles, "Let's hope he can live up to his address." Sisay grins and says: "Oh, but I'm sure he will. But will I? This whole stuff gets me very confused." Phillip shrugs, "Who knows. Oh well, what can you do?" Sisay says: "So tell me, how have your encounters with the other Major Houses here been?" Phillip shrugs, "Oh, I've not had many really. I guess they've gone well, but whose to tell anymore." Sisay looks puzzled and says: "What do you mean?" Phillip says, "Well, I can never really tell what a House official is thinking. They always seem to mask their emotions or intents. I've only been able to once or twice before." |
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