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Post by NPC: Male on May 3, 2021 6:55:32 GMT -5
"My good friend..." Thisbe smiles tightly towards the artist, his grip on the other's shirt so secure, veins could be seen behind his hand. "As much as I appreciate your grand return to my modest boutique, I'd like to remind you that there are security cameras that I could easily use to thwart your reputation, you horny twat!"
Thisbe released his hold of Leo's clothes to pull his gloved hand back, aiming to either punch or smack the artist, but after a long moment, that hand gripped the taller man's shoulder instead. "It is only due to our long-lasting friendship that I will put this matter aside and let you go with a strict warning; Never do raunchy things in my boutique." His voice is stern, and his expression is of disappointment. "What happened to your normally outstanding brain? Is it broken?" He flicked the artist's hat upwards, but not enough to push it off his head.
With a sigh, he then pushes Leo aside to face the door where the woman he brought is. Thisbe had pulled Leo out so quickly, the door slammed close by the inertia and stayed close. Politely, he knocked on the door, "Miss...? Are you quite alright in there? I'm terribly sorry for this guy's brusque behavior, and while it isn't my right to butt into your relationship, I do not condone public indecency. You can smack him if he does anything like that again."
His tone of voice towards Leo and Rayl are as different as night and day. Towards Leo earlier, his words are sharp and spits like poison, meanwhile towards Rayl it's unmistakably gentle and soft.
"Anyway! Back to your actual reason for being here, may I see your dress?"
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on May 3, 2021 13:26:10 GMT -5
The moment Rayl nodded on Leo's request, she could never figure him out as Leo locked his lips on hers. She gasped at the quick move of the man in front of her; surprised by the sudden 'experience' kissing he brought out to her. Both her hands are leaning in front of his chest as he moves forward making Rayl trapped between him and the wall mirror. She shivers at the sudden coldness behind her, as her lover enates the hotness heat of his body below.
A sharp knocking stops Leo from continuously sinning the place as Rayl's eyes also flooded with something like from him. Her breath went rigid as both tried to calm down. She leaned her right hand to where her heartbeats, and it sure is beating wildly because of the event previously happened.
"That guy... how could he kiss like that?" she grimly thought as Leo smiled apologetically from her before unlocking the door.
She was suddenly surprised when Leo was quickly pushed out of the room as the door shut off again, her eyes owlishly look confused and surprised at what happened; before realizing that it was Thisbe who dragged the poor horny man out. It was like a mother sermons her child because of something he shouldn't do. Normally should have not been done in a public place.
After a minute or so, Rayl has calmed herself only realizing that Thisbe was softly knocking at the door. She looked behind at the mirror and looked at herself; nodding as she looks back at herself, she looks composed and no evidence of what happened previously. Except for her lips that is much more reddish compared to a while ago. But Thisbe already knew that.
"I'm all good, Thisbe... thanks," she politely replied as Thisbe asks if he could see her on her dress, in which she nodded to herself before unlocking and gently pulls the door to her.
She looks at Thisbe who is already at the front door as she saw a glimpse of Leo's hair beside Thisbe, somewhat leaning at the wall. "I also apologize for his behavior," she firmly spoke out as she moved forward and bowed -again- in an Ojigi way.
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Post by NPC: Male on Nov 21, 2021 11:19:01 GMT -5
Thisbe has his hands locked together professionally in front of him once Rayl opens the fitting room door, his eyes already darting to how her dress beautifully matches her figure, her skin, her hair, her eyes. Though, Rayl is distracted in apologizing for Leo's behavior, so she couldn't have noticed how the designer cogwheels in his mind are charging and turning. "My word..." He breathed out in quiet surprise. As she bowed down, her hair flows down with her and Thisbe blinked even more. It's like there are magic dust in front of his eyes and he's trying to wake up from it.
Without even turning to face Leo, Thisbe's arm has already reached over to grab Leo's shoulder and strongly pulled him closer into a whisper. "Where did you find such a woman..."
Once Rayl has raised herself from her bow, Thisbe motions for her to come closer as he inspects the dress on her and asks her to turn around slowly. "My dear..." He quietly said, "Would you like to be a model...?"
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Nov 21, 2021 11:59:56 GMT -5
After being sternly reprimanded, Leo could do nothing but stand still with his head down in guilt. He understands the consequences of his actions, but really, how could he help himself when the object of his strong affection is standing right there? Honestly. A man could only do so much. He stayed standing there like a guilty frozen mannequin even after Rayl had stepped out of the dressing room.
However, when he was unceremoniously pulled by Thisbe and was asked where he found Rayl, the artist lifted an eyebrow. "Um... Veyyard..?" Thisbe's question unearthed a memory he had of his first meeting with Rayl. He believes he was mining something at that moment, and she was there. Then they were both attacked by thugs. Was that how it went? He remembers feeling quite petrified by her at first, but he could also see the possibilities of being an acquaintance of hers. Never would he thought his third possibility, that is being her lover, came true. He's glad it did.
When the designer suddenly offered Rayl a job, Leo spun his head towards the two. "Wait, what. Excuse me?"
His fingers curled inwards, already thinking of that possibility and its consequences, and without a moment's pause, he's suddenly standing between Rayl and Thisbe. "With all respect... No." She just regained her freedom, her will, her body. From the mafia. From gang members. From a literal demonic entity. Thisbe would have to get through Leo's dead body if he wants Rayl to show her body to people. He can't exactly say all those to Thisbe, so he formed another reason to soothe his friend, "I... I just... want to be selfish. I don't want... other people to look at Rayl... if she dresses.... provocatively."
He is unsure if this reason will work, but he has to try. In fact, he's not even sure if Rayl understood the true reason he's rejecting the job for her.
Leo then slowly turns his head to the side to look at her. "What do you say?"
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 15, 2023 11:06:28 GMT -5
Rayl was taken aback when Thisbe offered her the opportunity to become a model. Although she knew a few people who worked in modeling, she wasn't entirely clear about the nature of the job. She wondered if models sold clothes or even their bodies, which left her hesitant. Leo's rejection of the offer seemed understandable to her.
Currently unemployed, Rayl had some savings, aside from owning a house in Quazmrl, Tenka. However, she worried that her savings wouldn't last long enough to cover her necessities. She prided herself on being thrifty, and her savings were meant to sustain her for the next ten years, but uncertainty lingered.
Rayl wasn't accustomed to caring much about fashion and didn't know what she should buy or wear. Despite not being high-maintenance, she found the idea of staying at home and doing nothing too monotonous. She craved new experiences and enjoyed exploring different things.
Observing Leo's disapproval of the modeling idea, she felt disheartened, and her mood ring mirrored her emotions. When asked about her decision, she replied honestly, "I'm not really sure," she let out as she looks at both men.
While the idea of trying out modeling intrigued her, she empathized with Leo's reservations about it. Rayl looked at Thisbe and offered a slight bow, saying, "Thank you for the offer, Mr. Thisbe, but I must admit I'm uncertain about accepting it." She then glanced up at Leo and added, "I understand his concerns, and besides, I have no prior experience in this line of work."
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Post by NPC: Male on Jul 15, 2023 19:35:44 GMT -5
Thisbe was pleasantly surprised when the normally composed and passive artist that is his friend stepped up between him and Rayl. He wasn't quite convinced, but once Rayl clearly stated that she is uncertain of taking the offer, Thisbe smiles kindly at her.
"That is fine, but I do honestly think you naturally have the right foundation for modelling." He nods towards her politely. With a flick of his wrist, he courteously hands over a sleek business card to her. "If not for modelling, I'd be happy to have you working here in this boutique itself. I can train you for it, if you're willing." There is no hint of pushiness in his voice, Thisbe is completely earnest regarding his offer.
"I appreciate how polite you are. That's very rare around here. I need a staff with this much class." Apparently, he has been running this boutique alone, and he wants to branch it to other places, if at all possible. The only problem is he's extremely picky on who gets to work for him. "Where is your current area of residence, my dear? Outside of Gradia?"
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 15, 2023 19:37:22 GMT -5
Leo bit his inner lip. Has he made a mistake? He can almost feel the shift of mood from Rayl when she responded. She doesn't seem like she wanted to deny the offer, and instead she chose to say that she's uncertain. At this, Leo sighed.
"Modelling is a full-time job over here in Gradia." Leo began to explain to his girlfriend. If she's uncertain, then he would give her the details of Thisbe's offer, so she has the autonomy to choose after hearing the particulars. "It's a precarious career with high stress. Typically, a model over here works up to 5 days a week. They have to do cardio twice a week for health, stamina and fat burning." The only reason Leo knows so much is because he was tasked with artistically painting a model and the model explained her life to him over coffee after work is over. "There are daily meetings, constant photoshoots, strict diets as well as exercise regimens they have to strictly follow."
To be fair, Rayl used to work as an assassin. Perhaps she is all checked out on the exercising department. "You model many things, whether it be clothes, products or even new places. The model's job is to become the main accessory of whatever is being sold." He looks over at her worriedly, wondering what she may be thinking after hearing his explanation. "For Thisbe here, he probably wants you to wear the clothes he designs and walk over a catwalk in front of several notable agencies and important figures."
Leo finally turned to look at Thisbe for confirmation, and the man nodded. It seems Leo got his facts straight.
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 15, 2023 22:52:30 GMT -5
As Rayl gazed at both Thisbe and Leo, they explained everything about modeling and the option to work as boutique staff. Despite the thorough explanation, Thisbe made it clear that there was no pressure to decide immediately. "I am currently living in Quazmrl, Tenka," she responded, her gaze lowered. The journey to Gradia took them a couple of hours, and the thought of working here seemed intriguing to her. It would be a welcome change from her usual routine of being alone in Quazmrl and waiting for Leo to return from his travels.
She then looks at Leo, "Can we talk?" she asks suddenly looking around at a comfortable place they can discuss this. She wanted him to understand her thoughts on this matter, and she knows how Leo is protective of her -and her body-. She remembers the receiving area and pointed the way.
Rayl turned her attention to Leo, "Can we talk?"
She wanted to discuss her thoughts on the matter in a comfortable setting, understanding Leo's protective nature towards her, especially when it came to the modeling aspect. Rayl recalled the receiving area and pointed in that direction.
"Mr. Thisbe, I..." she hesitated, taking a deep breath before continuing, "Please give Leo and me some time to talk." She gently held Leo's hand, indicating where they should go to have their conversation in private.
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Post by NPC: Male on Jul 16, 2023 2:27:50 GMT -5
Thisbe's eyes light up once Rayl was gracious enough to supply him her country of residence. He was looking for a place to open another chain of his boutique. "In Tenka, huh... A new line of winter fashion might just be thing there..."
The fashion designer within him now struck with inspiration, Thisbe simply motioned his hand in agreement once Rayl inquired that the couple needed some time. He swiftly went inside the backrooms behind the counter, disappearing himself in a sea of clothes.
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 16, 2023 2:28:32 GMT -5
Now that both of them are alone in the entire boutique, with no staff nor other customers nearby, Leo looks over at Rayl. "I... guess we have some time to talk now?" He's unsure if she would prefer to talk inside the boutique, or outside.
With one hand of his in hers, Leo saw a pair of plush seats in the middle of the boutique for customers to sit on. "What about there?" He led her over to the expensive-looking seats, and motioned for her to sit first before he takes a seat himself beside her.
"Everything okay? What do you wish to talk to me about?" He asked that, but he already has an idea of what the topic might be about.
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 16, 2023 2:42:12 GMT -5
Rayl followed Leo's lead as he guided her to one of the plush seats. Sitting there, she felt a mix of nervousness and embarrassment, fidgeting with their intertwined hands. She mustered the courage to express her thoughts to Leo, wanting him to understand her feelings.
"You see, Leo," she began, glancing around at the dresses on display, "I've never worn or bought dresses like these. I've always been a simple woman with no particular interest in fashion." But witnessing Leo's enthusiastic gaze upon the dresses and his familiarity with this world made her curious to try new things, especially for him.
"I want to..." she hesitated, her fingers fumbling with his nervously, "I want to try it, but not as a model. I don't want you to worry." Her eyes remained fixed on their entwined hands. "I'd like to work as a regular staff here, and I'm also open to living here," Rayl continued, looking directly into Leo's eyes. "As for the house in Quazmrl, I could find someone to rent it so it won't be abandoned." She spoke with determination, expressing her willingness to embrace new opportunities and make the most of their current situation.
She took a deep breath, trying to steady her heartbeat and emotions. "I want to explore new things, gain new experiences... with you. I wish to be on equal footing with your knowledge and your experiences. Would that be okay with you?"
Rayl wanted to ensure that their shared experiences would extend beyond their travels and that they could create meaningful memories together in various aspects of life. She hoped Leo would understand her intentions and be supportive of her desire for personal growth and exploration and shared experiences with him.
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 16, 2023 15:51:00 GMT -5
Leo considers Rayl's words that she's not used to dresses in this boutique, and inwardly, he thought to himself that perhaps her world is too different than the one he is used to. His life is grand without him realizing it, and he had unconsciously imagined her within his world as well.
Leo's hand is bigger than her, and he could see her slender fingers nervously fumbling with his as she tries to articulate her thoughts. Rayl said she wants to try working here, and living here, while planning what to do with her house back in Tenka. Her tone of voice sounded strong and devoted; Leo could do nothing but studies her profile in admiration with his jaw slightly ajar. She's brimming with purpose, it's beautiful. She's beautiful.
The artist's eyes shone like never before when Rayl genuinely said that she wanted to explore and gain new experiences, with him. He's in this equation of her life, and acknowledging that Rayl is seeing him as something as important as this, Leo almost wanted to kiss her. "Yes!" His voice is unusually high-pitched, a rare excitement coursing through his energy. "Yes, yes! Of course I'm okay with that..!" He had not realize both his hands and holding hers excitedly.
"I really admire you..." Leo studies her icy blue eyes in wonder, almost distractedly. "Your entire path of life and paradigm has been shifted, yet you're facing this head on so strongly..." Rayl went through such a difficult life, and then having her transitioning directly into a more opulent life must have been a great shock to her, but she's completely willing to learn and grow more. "It's amazing. You're amazing..."
This talk just makes Leo even more driven to walk alongside her and be gentler in explaining all these new things to her. "I'll help you through everything," he smiles gently. "I have a modest house here in Gradia that we can rest in during our stay here... And I'm financially stable to support both of us, but you're free to pursue anything you like. I'll support you." He says 'financially stable', but in truth he has an entire fortune under his name to last 3 generations of family. Leo doesn't quite mind or care about his monetary value, his entire attention now is towards Rayl and Rayl alone.
"If being a staff here sounds interesting to you, then I'll support you whole-heartedly." It might just be good for her to get used to how things roll in Gradia first. Leo started thinking of general things like the distance between his house and to the mall here, as well as how he's going to send her here every morning. He recalls a motorcycle he used to tinker with in his garage, he suppose he could give her a ride using that. Then he starts thinking of more domestic things, like preparing her a lunchbox or ironing her work clothes. Leo is, once again, stuck in his realm of imagination.
From an outsider's perspective, it might look like he's thinking of something indecent, when really he's just happy to have Rayl in his life.
His eyes wandered as he fantasizes, until it finally meets her eyes. "Can I take you to a fancy dinner tonight...?" His expression is so full of love, it's like he's drunk in it. "I'm willing to let you go to a saloon I know and they can do your hair and makeup. As for what you can wear..." Leo gazes around the shop and points to a particular black dress on a mannequin, with star-shaped accessories on it. "What do you think of that one? I can envision what you would look like in it."
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Rayl
Citizen
: I grew up living alone... and will die living alone :
Posts: 351
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Post by Rayl on Jul 16, 2023 16:11:42 GMT -5
As Rayl saw the delight and excitement in Leo's eyes upon hearing his approval, she felt a sense of happiness and warmth. The idea of exploring new things and living with Leo, experiencing freedom together, filled her heart with joy. She pondered the possibility of them living together, even though they hadn't explicitly discussed it.
She wanted to bring up the topic, but a hint of apprehension held her back. She loved the idea of living with Leo, sharing sweet moments after their experiences in Veyyard. However, she couldn't help feeling a bit afraid of this new feeling and the changes it might bring.
But now wasn't the time to get lost in her thoughts about the future. Leo mattered, and their present happiness was what counted. She looked down, her hair flowing gracefully as she moved. At this moment, being with Leo and experiencing life together was all that truly mattered to her. She shook her head and slowly look up, "I must admit, I'm not particularly strong or confident when facing new things head-on. In fact, I feel clueless about so many aspects of life." But as she looked at Leo with love in her eyes, her tone became more joyful and melodic, as she hold both of his hands and lean her face on it. "But with you by my side, it's like there are no boundaries that I cannot overcome. As long as I am with you, I feel like I can take on anything."
In Leo's presence, Rayl found the strength to face the unknown, embrace new experiences, and explore the world with a newfound sense of courage and enthusiasm. She knew that with him as her partner, she could navigate through life's challenges and uncertainties with confidence and love. Rayl smiled gratefully at Leo's support, appreciating his understanding and encouragement. "Thank you for being patient with me as I embrace this new experience," she expressed sincerely, looking into his eyes with affection.
As Leo suggested continuing their date with a fancy dinner, Rayl nodded bashfully, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness. When he asked if she could wear something fancy, her eyes fell on a dress that caught Leo's interest. She agreed to his request, "Yes, I'll gladly comply with your request."
But then, her gaze wandered towards a men's suit displayed in the boutique. It was a black suit with matching pants and a black polo shirt. Rayl had noticed it since they entered the boutique, and she had been thinking about how great Leo would look in it. "Fascinating," she said playfully, pointing at the suit, "Yes, I'll wear the dress if you wear that suit. Deal?" Her eyes sparkled with anticipation, eager to see Leo in that outfit for their fancy dinner together.
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Leo
Citizen
Artist of Gradia
Posts: 385
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Post by Leo on Jul 16, 2023 17:50:15 GMT -5
With how Rayl is describing their relationship giving her strength, Leo feels the same way. He used to be so unenthusiastic and lethargic, going through life with a purpose to learn and nothing else. Since meeting Rayl, that purpose is branching wider and further and stronger. His feelings for her strengthens him in ways he could never imagine.
The artist mentally punches the air in excitement when Rayl agreed to wear the dress he suggested. In return, she pointed at something behind him. Leo turns around to see a sleek black suit on display, his expression is of mild surprise. "Huh? Really? Me? In that?" He had never seen himself as attractive enough to wear such a thing, but if his beloved wills it, so it shall be.
"Alright. I agree with that compromise." He had never worn a suit that fancy before, and that's fair because he assumed Rayl hadn't worn the type of dress he chose for her either. In the end, they both will dress up their best for their dinner date tonight. It's quite convenient that Degenera Mall has all the services available ranging from this boutique, to the hair and makeup salon, to the high-rise dining area. All in one place.
"I'll make the arrangements immediately," he tried to say calmly, but with how his knee is bouncing, it's quite evident Leo is very excited of their dinner date. He slips out his phone and begins to make several calls of different establishments to reserve. Every time he said his own name, the staff at the other end of the line always panics and he had to reassure them he's just a regular person requiring regular service.
After he's done with the calls, he faces Rayl again, his expression bright with anticipation. "I'll give you the general idea of what we need to do today, okay?" He shows her his phone screen as he explains to her what they will be doing. "First, we'll wait for Thisbe to return so we can rent the dress and the suit. He will need to measure us first, and that will most likely take around an hour."
He taps something on his phone, and now it shows a picture of a hair and beauty salon, as well as what floor it's in. "After our measurements are done, I'll head over to the barber shop downstairs. You'll be heading to this place, D'Jari Beauty Parlour, for your hair and makeup. Just tell them my name, and they will help you with everything." Leo explains with a gentle nod, making sure Rayl understands.
"After they're done with your makeup and hair, you can come back here to Le Chic Couture, so Thisbe or his staff can help dress you up in the dress. Then..." He scrolls on his phone and shows her a beautiful high-rise dining restaurant at the topmost floor of Degenera Mall. "By the time you're ready, it will be sunset, and we will have dinner at Fuego Troika Sky Dining. I will be waiting for you at our table."
After Leo is done explaining everything, he turns to look at Rayl with a small smile. "Is that alright?" It seems he enjoys planning this. "If you're lost, you can ask the security guards. They will be happy to assist you." He's confident all the staffs in Degenera Mall are professionals in their respective occupations.
"Now then, let's call over Thisbe to run over the plan with him." He gracefully stood up, with her hand in his elbow, and then the couple walks over to the counter with renewed energy and smiles. Leo nods to the young woman managing the counter and asked for the manager.
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Post by NPC: Male on Jul 16, 2023 17:50:56 GMT -5
Thisbe was busy sketching out a new winter collection he was inspired of by Rayl, when suddenly he was called up to the front. He really needs to hang a 'Do Not Disturb' sign somewhere.
As the wheat-haired man steps to the counter, Leonard de Piero began explaining what is required of Thisbe and his boutique. His eyes are wide as he listens with interest, and finally he nods understandably. "But of course! Nadine, fetch dress #37 and suit #9, and then ring it up under the name Mr. de Piero. I'll begin with the measurements."
He calls Leo over to a private room, then begins to measure different parts of his body with his measuring tape. Thisbe Prescott works with utter focus, and he writes the measurements very neatly on his book. Soon after he's done, he sends Leo out to pay and then calls Rayl in.
He does the same thing with Rayl, asking her to lift her arms as he measures her waist carefully. Thisbe is respectful as he does so, and finally, he throws his measuring tape over his shoulder happily. "It's done. Thank you, my dear. Your dress will be ready by the time you're done with the salon."
As the manager of the boutique starts grabbing the necessary supplies for him to work on the rented clothes, he smiles over at Rayl. "Let him spoil you rotten."
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