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Chapter 92 - New Friends?

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The sleek black car rolled smoothly along the newly paved road connecting the docks to Wall Maria. Inside, King Eren and Queen Historia sat facing their guests from Hizuru, while the escort vehicles carried the rest of both delegations.

"I hope you don't mind the long drive," Historia said, breaking the initial silence. "We're still working on expanding our roads."

Rosalinda's eyes brightened. "Oh, please don't apologize! The countryside is beautiful. Look at all these trees!" She pressed her face closer to the window, her eyes wide with wonder. "In Hizuru, especially in the cities, we don't see forests like this anymore."

Haru shifted slightly in his seat, maintaining his rigid posture. "The infrastructure here is... developing," he observed, his tone carefully neutral.

Eren leaned back, studying their guests. "Tell us about Hizuru. What's it like living there as Eldians?"

Rosalinda turned from the window, tucking a strand of dark hair behind her ear. "It's wonderful! Well, mostly wonderful. The food is amazing – have you ever tried sushi? Oh, you haven't? You're missing out! It's raw fish, but before you make that face, Your Majesty—" she giggled at Eren's involuntary grimace, "—it's actually delicious when prepared properly."

"Raw fish?" Historia couldn't hide her skepticism.

"Trust me, Queen Historia, once you try it with wasabi – that's this spicy green paste – you'll understand why even the pickiest eaters in Hizuru love it."

Haru cleared his throat. "The cultural differences are... significant," he added stiffly.

Eren's green eyes focused on Haru. "And the people? How do they treat Eldians?"

"They treat us like people," Rosalinda answered before Haru could speak. "No armbands, no ghettos, no discrimination. We can own businesses, join the military, even marry non-Eldians if we want." Her expression softened. "It's not perfect – there are always some prejudiced individuals – but the government actively protects our rights."

"That's... convenient," Haru muttered, earning a sharp look from Rosalinda.

"Haru," she chided gently, "you know it's true. Your own father is on the merchant's council."

Historia leaned forward, interested. "You're from a merchant family?"

"Yes, Your Majesty," Haru answered reluctantly. "My father trades in textiles and spices."

"And he's being modest," Rosalinda cut in cheerfully. "His family's company is one of the largest in Hizuru. They even supply fabric to the imperial palace!"

Haru's cheeks colored slightly. "Rosalinda, please."

"Oh, come on! You should be proud. Besides," she turned to Eren and Historia with a conspiratorial whisper, "he's just embarrassed because his mother keeps trying to arrange his marriage to every eligible noble daughter in Hizuru."

"Rosalinda!" Haru's composed facade cracked slightly, his embarrassment was evident.

Eren couldn't help but laugh. "Arranged marriages? We know something about that pressure, don't we, Historia?"

Historia smiled, remembering. "The nobles were quite insistent before we made our own choice."

"Your own choice?" Rosalinda leaned in, clearly intrigued. "Oh, please tell me there's a romantic story here! Was it love at first sight? Secret meetings? Dramatic declarations?"

"It was more like retaking her throne," Eren said dryly.

Rosalinda's eyes widened. "Even better! Nothing says true love like fighting for your lives together!"

Eren and Historia said a very edited version on how the fight against Historia's father went.

 

"That's incredible!" Rosalinda wiped tears of laughter from her eyes. "The most exciting thing that happens in Hizuru's royal court is when someone uses the wrong fork at dinner."

"Speaking of dinner," Historia said, "I hope you'll join us this evening. We've asked our chefs to prepare some traditional dishes, but we'd love to learn about Hizuru cuisine as well."

"Oh, I'd be honored!" Rosalinda clapped her hands together. "I can show your chefs how to make proper ramen. Not the instant kind – Haru practically lives on those when he's working late."

"I do not," Haru protested weakly.

"Please, I've seen your office trash can. It's a noodle graveyard."

The car hit a slight bump, causing Rosalinda to grab the seat. "Oh! That reminds me of the time I tried to teach my younger sister to cook. She was so determined to make udon noodles from scratch, but she added too much water to the dough. It turned into this huge, sticky mess! She ended up covered in flour from head to toe, looking like a ghost, and our mother walked in..."

As Rosalinda continued her story, Eren noticed Haru watching her with a mixture of exasperation and fondness. It was the most genuine expression he'd seen on the young man's face since their meeting.

"You seem to know each other well," Historia observed.

"Our families have been friends for generations," Haru explained, his voice softening slightly. "Rosalinda's father is my father's closest friend and business partner."

"We practically grew up together," Rosalinda added. "Though Haru spent most of our childhood telling me to be more proper and ladylike."

"Someone had to," Haru muttered, but there was a hint of a smile on his face.

"Did it work?" Eren asked, amused.

"Not even a little," Rosalinda said proudly. "I still climb trees in formal kimonos and eat street food with my fingers."

"You're an ambassador now," Haru reminded her.

"Yes, and I diplomatically climb trees and eat street food."

Historia laughed. "I think you'll fit in well here. The more time I spend as Queen, the more I realize that being yourself is more important than following every rule of propriety."

"Exactly!" Rosalinda beamed. "Besides, Haru follows enough rules for both of us. Did you know he has a twelve-step morning routine? Twelve steps! I just roll out of bed and hope my hair isn't standing straight up."

"It usually is," Haru commented.

"See? He notices these things. Such attention to detail, this one."

The car rolled to a stop at a checkpoint near Wall Maria. While the guards verified their credentials, Rosalinda pressed her face to the window again.

"Is that... are those the Walls we've heard about?" she asked, her voice filled with awe. "They're enormous!"

"Yes," Eren's voice took on a more serious tone. "They protected us for a hundred years. Now they stand as a reminder of our history."

"And the future we're building," Historia added, placing her hand over Eren's.

Haru studied the Walls intently. "They were built using the power of the Founding Titan," he stated rather than asked.

"Yes," Eren confirmed, watching Haru's reaction carefully.

The young man's shoulders tensed slightly, but before he could respond, Rosalinda spoke up.

"It's amazing what people can build when they work together," she said thoughtfully. "Whether it's giant walls or bridges between nations." She turned to face Eren and Historia with a sincere smile. "That's why we're here, isn't it? To build something new together?"

Historia returned her smile warmly. "Exactly. The walls served their purpose, but now it's time for open doors and new connections."

"As long as those connections are carefully considered," Haru added quietly.

"Of course," Eren agreed, his voice level. "Trust is built gradually, through honest dialogue and mutual understanding."

"And good food!" Rosalinda chimed in. "Nothing brings people together like a shared meal. Just wait until you try my mother's secret recipe for miso soup. It can end wars, I'm telling you."

"Is that why Lady Kiyomi brought you along? For your mother's soup recipe?" Historia teased.

"That, and I make Haru look more diplomatic by comparison," Rosalinda winked.

"You make everyone look more diplomatic by comparison," Haru said, but his tone was affectionate.

The car began moving again, passing through the gate in Wall Maria. Rosalinda's running commentary on everything she saw – from the architecture to the people going about their daily lives – filled the remainder of the journey, occasionally drawing reluctant corrections or additions from Haru.

"So, what was it like—" Rosalinda began, but Haru subtly touched her arm, cutting her off.

"I'm curious about your infrastructure development," Haru interjected smoothly. "These roads seem recently constructed. Are you planning to expand your transportation network?"

Rosalinda shot him a puzzled look, but something in his expression made her hold her tongue. She understood belatedly that he'd stopped her from asking about their childhood within the Walls – a topic that might have stirred uncomfortable memories.

"Yes, actually," Historia replied, exchanging a quick glance with Eren. "We're prioritizing road construction to connect major settlements. The railway system is still in its early stages, but we have plans to expand it significantly over the next few years."

"Have you established contact with other nations?" Haru asked, his tone carefully measured. "Besides Hizuru, of course."

Eren leaned back, his green eyes studying Haru. "Actually, it was someone from Marley who suggested we reach out to Hizuru first."

At the mention of Marley, Rosalinda's purple eyes flashed with an intensity that transformed her entire face for a split second. The sudden change was striking – hatred, raw and pure, darkened her features before she masked it with one of her dazzling smiles. But Eren had caught it, and from the way Historia's hand briefly squeezed his, she had too.

"Oh? Someone from Marley recommended us?" Rosalinda's voice remained light, though there was a new edge to it. "How... unexpected of them."

"We thought so too," Historia said diplomatically. "But we're glad they did. Hizuru's reputation for technological advancement and cultural richness made it an obvious choice for first contact."

"Plus," Eren added, watching their reactions carefully, "we heard Hizuru treats all its citizens equally, regardless of their heritage. That's important to us."

Haru's jaw tightened slightly. "Yes, we're very... progressive in that regard." His tone suggested there was more to the story, but he didn't elaborate.

"Progressive is one word for it," Rosalinda said, her usual cheerfulness returning gradually. "Though I prefer to think of it as simple common sense. Judging people by their bloodline is so... Marleyan." She practically spat the last word, then immediately covered her mouth. "Oh! Excuse my lack of diplomacy. Mother always says my tongue runs faster than my mind."

"No need to apologize," Eren assured her, a knowing look in his eyes. "We understand that relations with Marley can be... complicated."

"Complicated," Haru repeated dryly. "That's certainly one way to put it."

Rosalinda smoothed her skirt, visibly composing herself. "Let's talk about something more pleasant! Like those beautiful buildings I can see ahead. Is that the palace complex? The architecture is fascinating – it's so different from Hizuru's style."

As Historia began explaining the palace's history, Eren noticed how Haru watched Rosalinda with concern, his hand hovering near hers as if ready to offer support.

"The main palace was actually redesigned recently," Historia was saying. "We wanted to incorporate elements from the old architecture while creating something new. Something that represents who we are now, not just who we were."

"Who you are now," Haru repeated thoughtfully. "And who would that be, exactly?"

"People trying to build a better future," Eren answered simply. "Just like anyone else."

Rosalinda's smile returned, genuine this time. "A better future... I'll drink to that. You do have wine here, right? Please tell me you have wine. Haru becomes almost personable after a glass or two."

"Rosalinda!" Haru protested, his diplomatic facade cracking again.

"What? I'm promoting cultural exchange! Besides, they should know what they're getting into before dinner. You try to use chopsticks after wine, and it's like watching a baby bird try to build a nest."

The car slowed as it entered the central district of Wall Sina, its wheels rolling smoothly over the carefully laid brick roads. Tall trees lined the streets, their leaves casting dappled shadows on the pristine pavement. The royal residence came into view – a stunning blend of classical architecture and modern additions, surrounded by meticulously maintained gardens.

"Oh my..." Rosalinda pressed her hands against the window. "It's beautiful! Look at that park, Haru! The flowers, the fountains – it's like something from a fairy tale!"

Even Haru couldn't maintain his usual reserve. "I must admit, the architecture is impressive. The integration of old and new elements is... quite skillful."

The car came to a stop at the main entrance, where a row of uniformed guards stood at attention. Eren stepped out first, offering his hand to Historia. As they emerged, the second car pulled up, and Ambassador Kiyomi Azumabito stepped out with practiced grace, her traditional Hizuran robes flowing elegantly.

"Welcome to our home," Historia said warmly, gesturing toward the entrance. "We hope you'll find your stay comfortable."

Rosalinda practically bounced out of the car, her eyes wide as she took in the surroundings. "Comfortable? This is magnificent! Oh, look at those rose bushes – they're huge! We can't grow roses like that in Hizuru; it's too humid."

"The gardens are Lady Historia's personal project," one of the guards mentioned proudly.

"Really?" Rosalinda turned to Historia with newfound admiration. "You garden yourself? Even with being Queen and everything?"

Historia smiled. "It helps me think. There's something calming about working with your hands in the soil."

"A queen who gardens," Haru murmured, stepping out of the car more sedately. "How... unexpected."

"Our Queen has many unexpected qualities," Eren said, a hint of pride in his voice. "As do all of us, I imagine."

Kiyomi moved forward, her presence commanding immediate attention. "Your Majesties, the residence is truly spectacular. We are honored by your hospitality."

"The honor is ours, Lady Kiyomi," Historia replied. "Captain Levi will show you to your quarters. We've prepared the east wing for the Hizuru delegation – it has the best view of the sunrise."

"Ah, how thoughtful," Kiyomi nodded appreciatively. "In Hizuru, we believe the rising sun brings good fortune to new ventures."

A shorter man with sharp features stepped forward – Captain Levi, presumably. Despite his size, there was something about him that made even Haru stand a little straighter.

"This way," Levi said simply. "Your luggage is being brought up now."

As they walked through the grand entrance hall, Rosalinda couldn't stop looking around. The ceiling soared above them, decorated with intricate moldings and crystal chandeliers. Sunlight streamed through tall windows, highlighting the polished marble floors.

"Amazing," she whispered to Haru. "And to think, just a few years ago, this was all..."

"Rosalinda," Haru warned quietly.

"Right, sorry. But still – the transformation is incredible."

Their footsteps echoed in the vast space as they followed Levi up a sweeping staircase. Portraits lined the walls, but Rosalinda noticed they were all relatively new – no ancient kings or queens glaring down at them.

"The art is lovely," Kiyomi commented. "Local artists?"

"Yes," Historia answered. "We believe in supporting Paradis talent. Though we'd love to see some Hizuru artwork as well. I've heard your traditional paintings are extraordinary."

"Oh, you should see the scrolls in Haru's family collection!" Rosalinda exclaimed. "They're absolutely incredible. His great-grandmother was one of Hizuru's most celebrated artists."

Haru shot her a look. "Rosalinda, I don't think—"

"What? It's true! Don't be so modest all the time. That landscape scroll of Mount Fuji during cherry blossom season is probably worth more than this entire—" She caught herself. "I mean, it's very nice. The scroll. And this place. Everything's nice."

"It's alright. We're well aware that Paradis has a lot of catching up to do in terms of art and culture. That's one reason we're so eager to learn from Hizuru."

They reached the east wing, where Levi paused before a series of doors. "Ambassador Kiyomi, your suite is here. Miss Amora, Mr. Tanaka, your rooms are adjacent. Each suite has a sitting room, bedroom, and private bath. There's a shared terrace overlooking the gardens."

"Perfect," Kiyomi nodded. "When should we expect dinner?"

"Seven o'clock in the main dining room," Historia answered. "Unless you'd prefer to rest and have dinner brought to your rooms?"

"No, no," Rosalinda said quickly. "I mean..." She glanced at Kiyomi apologetically.

The ambassador smiled slightly. "The main dining room will be fine. It will give us a chance to continue our discussions in a more relaxed setting."

"Excellent," Eren said. "We'll have someone come to escort you at quarter to seven. Please let the staff know if you need anything in the meantime."

As the guards began opening doors and directing servants with luggage, Rosalinda couldn't resist one more question. "Queen Historia, would it be possible... that is, if it's not too much trouble... could I see the gardens up close before dinner?"

"Rosalinda," Haru sighed. "They have more important things to—"

"I'd be happy to show you," Historia interrupted. "Perhaps in an hour? That will give you time to freshen up first."

Rosalinda beamed. "Really? That would be wonderful! Haru, you'll come too, won't you?"

"I should review my notes for tomorrow's meetings..."

"Oh, come on! Live a little. When was the last time you stopped to smell actual roses?"

Kiyomi cleared her throat softly. "I think it's an excellent idea. Cultural exchange happens in gardens as well as meeting rooms, Mr. Tanaka."

Haru bowed slightly. "Of course, Lady Kiyomi. I would be honored to join the garden tour."

"Wonderful," Historia smiled. "I'll have someone collect you in an hour."

As Eren and Historia turned to leave, Rosalinda called out, "Thank you, Your Majesties. For everything. This is... well, it's not what I expected. In a good way."

"What did you expect?" Eren asked, curious.

Rosalinda's usual confidence faltered for a moment. "I... well... stories can be..."

"Misleading," Haru finished for her, his voice neutral but his meaning clear.

"Yes," Eren agreed, meeting their eyes. "They certainly can be. That's why it's better to see things for yourself, isn't it?"

"Indeed," Kiyomi said smoothly. "Now, shall we all get settled? We have a lovely evening ahead of us."

As the group dispersed to their respective rooms, Rosalinda grabbed Haru's arm. "Did you see the size of those rose bushes? They must be ancient! And the fountains! And did you notice how the Queen's eyes lit up when she talked about gardening? She really does it herself, I can tell. A queen who gardens! Can you imagine your mother's face if she heard that?"

"Rosalinda," Haru said quietly, "remember why we're here."

Her excitement dimmed slightly. "I know, I know. Business first. But..." she glanced around to make sure they were alone, "they're not what we were told they'd be like, are they?"

Haru was silent for a moment. "No," he finally admitted. "They're not. But that doesn't mean we should let our guard down."

"Of course not," Rosalinda agreed, her smile returning. "But it doesn't mean we can't enjoy the roses either. Now, go get changed. You're not wearing that stuffy formal coat to the garden."

"What's wrong with my coat?"

"Everything, Haru. Everything is wrong with that coat. Trust me – I'm saving you from yourself."

.

.

As the Hizuru delegation disappeared into their quarters, Eren and Historia made their way down the grand staircase, where Commander Nile Dok awaited them in the main hall.

"Your Majesties," Nile bowed slightly, his Military Police badge gleaming in the afternoon light.

"Commander," Eren acknowledged. "I trust security measures are in place?"

"Yes, Your Majesty. MPs are stationed at every strategic point, both visible and concealed. We have eyes on every corner of the residence and the surrounding areas."

Historia smoothed her dress, a habit she'd developed when concerned. "And our... other guests? Where are Zeke and Pieck now?"

"Zeke is at the new café near the central square with his mother, Dina Fritz. They're under surveillance, of course," Nile reported. "Lady Pieck Finger is exploring the merchant district near the residence. She seems particularly interested in our textile shops."

Eren's jaw tightened slightly. "If either of them attempts to transform—"

"They won't get the chance," Nile cut in firmly. "We have Thunder Spears ready, elite squads tracking their every move, and three Semi Shifters. At the first sign of suspicious behavior, we can incapacitate them before they can bite or slice their hands."

"Good," Eren nodded. "The last thing we need is an incident during the Hizuru delegation's visit. We can't afford any... complications."

"Speaking of complications," Historia added, "is everything prepared for tomorrow's meeting?"

"Yes, Your Majesty. The conference room has been secured, and all relevant personnel have been briefed on protocol."

Eren ran a hand through his hair, a rare display of stress. "Make sure Hange understands this isn't the time for her usual... enthusiasm. The last thing we need is her interrogating our guests about Hizuru's technological advances."

A deep chuckle echoed from the hallway as Commander Erwin Smith approached. "Don't worry about Hange. I've had a very detailed conversation with her about appropriate meeting behavior. She's promised to save her questions for a more suitable time."

"Though knowing Hange, she's probably writing them all down right now," Historia said with a slight smile.

"Most likely," Erwin agreed. "But she understands the importance of these negotiations. We all do."

Nile cleared his throat. "There is one other matter, Your Majesties. Our intelligence suggests that certain factions in Marley are... displeased about this diplomatic mission."

"Let them be displeased," Eren said coldly. "They're not in a position to interfere."

"No, they're not," Nile confirmed. "But we should remain vigilant nonetheless."

Historia touched Eren's arm gently. "We should prepare for dinner. Commander Nile, please ensure everything runs smoothly. We don't want anything to disturb our guests' rest."

"Of course, Your Majesty." Nile bowed again. "I'll personally oversee the security arrangements for this evening."

"And the Warriors?" Eren asked, referring to Zeke and Pieck.

"They'll be kept well away from the residence during dinner," Erwin assured him. "We've arranged other accommodations for their evening meal."

"Very well," Eren nodded. "Thank you, gentlemen. We'll see you at tomorrow's meeting."

As Eren and Historia walked away, Nile turned to Erwin. "The Queen seems to have taken a liking to the Hizuru's lady in waiting."

"Lady Rosalinda isn't her lady," Erwin corrected. "But yes, Her Majesty seems to appreciate her... authenticity."

"Let's hope that authenticity doesn't extend to asking too many uncomfortable questions," Nile muttered.

"That's why we have Mr. Tanaka," Erwin said thoughtfully. "Did you notice how quickly he redirects her when conversations venture into sensitive territory?"

"I noticed. He's good at his job." Nile straightened his uniform. "I should check on the evening patrol. Can't be too careful with both Hizuru diplomats and Marley Warriors in the city."

"Indeed," Erwin agreed. "Though I have a feeling our guests from Hizuru might have more in common with us than they realize, especially when it comes to Marley."

"Let's hope that works in our favor," Nile said, before heading off to his duties, leaving Erwin to contemplate the complex web of politics and personalities now gathered within the walls of Paradis.

 

Dinner

The grand dining room sparkled in the warm light of crystal chandeliers. A long table of polished mahogany dominated the space, set with fine china and silverware. Guards stood at strategic positions around the room, including Mikasa Ackerman, who maintained her silent vigil near the main entrance, her gray eyes constantly scanning for potential threats.

"The food is amazing!" Rosalinda exclaimed, savoring a bite of roasted duck. "I wasn't expecting such refined cuisine, to be honest. No offense intended, of course."

"None taken," Historia smiled. "Our chefs have been studying various cooking styles. We even attempted some Hizuran dishes for tonight's menu, though I apologize if they're not quite authentic."

Haru examined the dish before him. "The presentation of the fish is actually quite close to traditional Hizuran style. Though I notice you've added local herbs."

"Is it not to your liking?" Historia asked.

"On the contrary," Haru replied, surprising everyone with a small smile. "The fusion works well. Sometimes... sometimes mixing traditions creates something new and worthwhile."

Eren observed this exchange with interest. "Speaking of mixing traditions, we're curious about how Hizuru has managed to maintain its cultural identity while advancing technologically. It's something we hope to achieve ourselves."

Kiyomi set down her wine glass. "It's a delicate balance. One must be careful not to lose what makes us unique while reaching for the future. Hizuru has had centuries to perfect this balance, though not without... challenges."

"Challenges is putting it mildly," Rosalinda muttered, then quickly took a sip of wine when Haru shot her a warning look.

"We understand that Hizuru has a unique position in the global community," Historia said diplomatically. "Your independence from Marleyan influence is particularly impressive."

A flash of something – pride, perhaps, or defiance – crossed Kiyomi's face. "We've paid dearly for that independence, Your Majesty. But yes, Hizuru stands on its own."

"And stands proudly," Rosalinda added, her chin lifting slightly. "We don't bow to anyone's prejudices."

Eren leaned forward slightly. "Is that why you were willing to establish contact with us? Because you don't share Marley's... views?"

"Partly," Kiyomi answered carefully. "But also because we recognize opportunity when we see it. Paradis has resources that could benefit both our nations."

"Not just resources," Haru interjected, surprising everyone again. "Knowledge. Technology. Culture. True exchange goes both ways."

Historia's eyes brightened. "We would love to learn more about Hizuran culture. Perhaps we could arrange some cultural exhibitions?"

"Oh, yes!" Rosalinda clapped her hands. "We could show you traditional tea ceremonies, flower arranging, martial arts—"

"Rosalinda," Haru warned.

"What? Martial arts are part of our culture! And clearly they value combat skills here too," she gestured toward the guards. "That woman hasn't moved a muscle in an hour. It's impressive, actually."

All eyes briefly turned to Mikasa, whose expression remained impassive despite the attention.

Kiyomi's chopsticks paused halfway to her mouth. She studied Mikasa more closely, her eyes narrowing slightly. "Indeed... most impressive. Tell me, young woman, what is your name?"

"Mikasa Ackerman," she replied simply, maintaining her professional stance.

Kiyomi's eyes widened almost imperceptibly. "Ackerman... how interesting..."

Mikasa instinctively touched her wrist where her family's symbol was tattooed.

"Lady Kiyomi?" Historia inquired, noting the sudden intensity in the ambassador's gaze.

"Ah, forgive me," Kiyomi smiled smoothly. "Just admiring your security arrangements. Now, about those cultural exhibitions – I think that's an excellent idea. Rosalinda, perhaps you could work with Queen Historia's staff to arrange something?"

Rosalinda beamed. "I would love to! We could start with a demonstration of—"

"After the trade negotiations are concluded, of course," Haru added firmly.

"Of course," Eren agreed, though his eyes moved between Kiyomi and Mikasa thoughtfully. "Business before pleasure."

The conversation shifted to lighter topics, but Kiyomi kept stealing glances at Mikasa throughout the rest of the meal. There was something calculating in her expression, as if she'd just discovered an unexpected piece in a complex game of chess.

As the evening drew to a close and servants began clearing the plates, Kiyomi addressed their hosts. "A wonderful meal, Your Majesties. And such... interesting company." Her eyes flickered once more to Mikasa. "I believe this visit will be even more productive than I initially hoped."

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