ReDraft

Posted on Sat Oct 12th, 2024 @ 2:13pm by Chief Inspector Philip Brandt & Jim Mazlish MFC, OFM & Sergeant 1st Class Caleb Weatherly

4,796 words; about a 24 minute read

Mission: Boys of Summer
Location: Apartment Complex, Santiago Bay

ON:

"Could you please turn off your alarm, Caleb? I'm trying to sleep, and you know I have a test this afternoon," spoke a groggy Stella Graham, rolling over and resting her bare chest and arm on Caleb Weatherly's body.

Nestling her face into his chest, Stella yawned as Caleb reached over to his bedside table. In the soft glow of the afternoon light, he searched for his PADD, which seemed to be playing hide-and-seek amidst his SBPD badge and his standard-issue Sigma phase pistol. After a moment of fumbling, he finally retrieved it and swiped his finger along the bottom of the screen to silence his alarm. Carefully placing the device back on top of his badge, Caleb turned his attention back to Stella.

Stella, a 25-year-old postgraduate in biological studies from Eversonian, happened to reside in the same building as Caleb. She had always harboured a deep attraction towards him and sought him out for stress relief when her workload became overwhelming. Caleb's smile grew as he admired her beautifully tanned body, the thin sheet barely providing modest coverage for both of them. With gentle care, he slowly pulled the sheet up from her bare waist to the top of her sun-kissed shoulders.

"You know, if you keep smirking like that, the wind will change, and you'll be stuck like that," Stella softly spoke, letting out a little squeal and playfully opening one eye. "Why is it that you always have that expression?"

"This face?" Caleb questioned, a tender smile on his lips as he delicately brushed her bangs behind her ear. "Well, there's something about you that reminds me of someone, but I can't quite put my finger on it."

"You mean the pop star?" Stella questioned, a mischievous glint in her eye as she raised an eyebrow playfully. With a teasing smile, she stretched her arms out, intentionally showcasing her bare breasts before placing her hands underneath her chin. "So, what's this mysterious thing you can't quite put your finger on? Is it my face, or is there something else that's captured your attention?"

"Well, this might sound silly," Caleb pondered, a playful smirk tugging at his lips as he looked at Stella's eyes. "For me, it's all about your eyes." He paused for a moment, then continued, "But you know what really gets me? It's the way your nose tenses up when you're sleeping."

"Do you watch me sleep, Mr. Weatherly?" Stella giggled, rolling back over, and settling her head into one of the soft pillows on Caleb's bed. "So, do you have any exciting plans for tonight?"

"I have a briefing about my new assignment, a protection detail," Caleb said, swinging his legs out of the bed and planting them on the warm floor. "And what about you? Are you still getting ready to venture out into the exclusion zone, on a daring quest to pick some daisies?"

"Is that a hint of sarcasm?" Stella playfully remarked, her voice dripping with curiosity as she slowly rose from the bed. Using the sheet as a makeshift hood, she gracefully approached Caleb, wrapping her arms around him, and pressing her naked body against his. With a mischievous smile, she planted a tender kiss on his cheek.

"Yes, I'll be heading back to work for a meeting about the planned mission into the exclusion zone," Stella explained with enthusiasm. "We'll be studying plant life, focusing on 'The Effects of Light Intensity on Photosynthetic Efficiency in Plants.' I'm actually quite excited about it. But I must admit, I'm not looking forward to being apart from you, my irresistible toy."

"Oh, am I your plaything?" Caleb smiled, turning his head to meet her gaze, his eyes filled with affection. "I apologize for my sarcastic remark. But you know, when you hear the stories about that exclusion zone, there's a sense of caution. There must be a reason why it's designated as off-limits."

"Look, Mr. Serious. I specifically requested a security detail to come with us. I was actually considering asking you, but it seems like this assignment is taking precedence," Stella spoke, her fingers lightly tracing Caleb's jawline. "And who is this protection detail for, anyway? Let me take a wild guess— a dignitary or perhaps a famous actress or actor visiting Sagan Prime?"

“It’s a Politician. But the rest you know.” Spoke Caleb as he was stopped mid-sentence by Stellas finger on his lip.

"You're absolutely right, discussing current protectees is strictly off-limits," Stella replied with a mischievous smile, her eyes sparkling with anticipation. She gracefully hopped out of Caleb's bed, her toned body glistening with sweat, and retrieved her scattered clothes. Leaning against the wall, she playfully suggested, "Perhaps we'll cross paths again in the hallway for another thrilling late-night rendezvous?"

"Certainly," Caleb chuckled, a mischievous glint in his eyes, as he gracefully rose from the bed, showcasing his well-toned body to entice Stella. With a confident stride, he made his way back to the bedside table, his gaze briefly lingering on her before checking the time.

As she glanced back at Caleb, her voice filled with anticipation, she added, "By the way, do you think you have enough time for a quick sonic shower before diving into your assignment?"

"Most definitely," Caleb exclaimed with a smile as he hastily rushed towards her and almost tripping over his own boots in the process. After a momentary pause, he slowly rose, fixing his gaze on the woman before him. With a smirk, he confidently stated, "Yes, I do have time."

Giggling at the sight before her, Stella playfully bit her lip and tenderly lifted Caleb's head, guiding him back to his feet. Standing now, the towering Caleb peered down at her as she gazed up at him with a mischievous smile. "Sailor, how about we indulge in a refreshing shower?" she suggested, her voice filled with a hint of playful anticipation.

Moments Later:
SBPD Headquarters:

Descending in the powerlift to the subterranean hub of the police department, Caleb found himself absentmindedly adjusting his shoulder holster, the fabric rubbing against the war wounds Stella had left on his body during their passionate afternoon and the subsequent shower. A fleeting thought of Stella crossed his mind, accompanied by a fond smile, before the lift doors parted, revealing the bustling and energetic atmosphere of the 'Hub.'

The Protective Security Unit, a recently established department, found its office tucked away near the lower levels of the building. Despite its location, the department had its perks, including a private firing range and a holodeck dedicated to training for evasive driving and various combat scenarios. As Caleb stepped out of the lift, he embarked on a walk down the dimly lit corridor, his gaze drawn to the solitary beam of light illuminating the end of the hall. Curiosity crept into his mind as he surveyed the empty offices, prompting him to wonder, "What secrets does this place hold? What stories lie within its walls?"

Placing his badge onto the scanner, the computer swiftly recognized Caleb's credentials and greeted him, "Welcome, Sergeant First Class Caleb Weatherly. Your designated meeting room is Room 25 on the lower floor."

Stepping through the doorway, Caleb was greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of a vast and imposing space. The room stretched out before him, a grand square chamber with towering ceilings. Two levels of offices adorned the upper section, evoking a sense of bustling activity.

A staircase connected the upper offices with the lower ones. At the heart of the room, a monumental table commanded attention, its surface gleaming under the illumination of a massive screen displaying the intricate map of Santiago Bay. The software of the department’s computer created an atmosphere of strategic planning.

As Caleb's eyes scanned the room, they alighted upon Brandt, engrossed in data entries, accompanied by a diligent young constable. With a resolute stride, Caleb traversed the room.

As Caleb approached Brandt, he couldn't help but notice the lift in his expression. With a warm smile, Caleb greeted him, "Inspector, good evening. How's everything?"

"Tickety boo," Brandt responded, "Despite your chipper disposition this evening, Sergeant."

The former Commissioner looked through his office windows, the frosting on the class active and obscuring a heated conversation between three people. He gestured towards the activity, "Mazlish is in there with his wife, and the Assistant Commissioner. Reiterating his demands, it seems. It's almost like he doesn't think we know what we're doing."

Penetrating the glass window of the conference room from the Hub's lower level, Caleb's gaze captured the unfolding scene. The Assistant Commissioner's agitated gestures echoed as he traversed the room, fervently voicing his points to Mazlish. Seated next to Mazlish was a young woman; their eyes fleetingly met Caleb's before she re-engaged with her partner. Caleb nonchalantly removed his jacket, draping it over a nearby unoccupied chair in the opposing office. As he posed his query, he looked back at Brandt and asked, “How long have they been at odds? The Assistant Commissioner doesn't seem swayed by his demands.”

"They've been at it for three hours," Brandt replied. He put his hands on his hips and looked at Weatherly with a hint of mock-disdain, "How about you stop penetrating the windows and focus on the job. Before that buffoon gets in here, we need to go over a couple of things regarding the security of Mazlish's apartment."

With a subtle smirk, Caleb glanced at Brandt before shifting his attention to the young Constable who presented a PADD to Brandt for approval. Suddenly, a thunderous bellow from above shattered the moment. "Brandt and Weatherly!" Caleb's gaze met the stern Assistant Commissioner, whose face was flushed with anger. Pointing assertively with his index and middle fingers, the Commissioner gestured for the two officers to proceed to the top floor. Caleb stifled a chuckle as he turned back to Brandt. "Looks like our discussion will be quite public. Inspector, shall we make our way up to the Circus?"

"It looks like we might have to," Brandt replied. "Jesus, I made that guy Esten, now look at the prick."

The doors of Brandt's office parted. Mazlish and Assistant Commissioner Esten's voices coming through the opening like a tsunami of noise.

"And you," Mazlish roared, "I wouldn't trust you or your people with the security of a shipment of rubber dogshit out of Hong Kong!"

"And I wouldn't protect you if you were the President of the fucking Federation if I had the choice but here we fucking are!" Assistant Commission Esten spat right back, vein bulging out of his head. The two men seemed to stop when Brandt and Weatherly walked in, as if the children had entered the kitchen where the parents were fighting.

"Problem, boys?" Brandt asked.

"We're currently trying to decide how we could best protect Mrs Mazlish from harm when she is at their accommodation," Esten replied, calming himself a little.

"Sergeant Weatherly may be able to provide some recommendations on this," Brandt said.

"Well, I've thoroughly reviewed your situation, and I want to assure you that you have the right team working on it," Caleb said, gracefully pulling out a seat from the conference table and taking a comfortable position. "To be frank, Mazlish, you have a list of people who either despise you for your principles and what you stand for, or whom you may have unintentionally wronged. But here's the thing—they're not after you. They're after you." As Caleb spoke, his gaze shifted, landing on the young aspiring model/actress.

Blushing, the young actress nervously smiled, pushing back a stray strand of her bangs, as she watched the young Sergeant swivel in his chair to address her. Speaking softly, she hoped her delicate words wouldn't be drowned out by the overpowering presence of the men in the room. "What do you mean?"

"Well, if they were after Jim, they would have simply done it already," Caleb spoke assertively, his gaze sweeping across the room. "The security measures we have in place for Jim provide enough protection for him. However, Miss James here lacks such protection, relying solely on her driver who may not be equipped for the task."

Without waiting for the room to respond, Caleb spoke with conviction, "Allow me to express my professional opinion. Miss James deserves the same level of protection afforded to diplomats or even Federation Council Members. This entails implementing a split shift for drivers and personnel, covering both day and night operations. Additionally, their residences should receive comprehensive protection, including communication sweeps and electronic surveillance. I understand that this proposal may seem overwhelming, but it's crucial for ensuring Miss James' safety and well-being."

"I understand. It's just a lot to process," she replied with a half-smile, then turned her attention back to Jim. "Jim, would you mind showing them the PADD? That was delivered to my place?"

Reluctantly, Mazlish dropped placed the PADD on the table. He looked sternly between the officers, "Take a look."

Reaching out for the PADD, a sleek tablet-like device with a glossy touch screen, Caleb gingerly picked it up and meticulously inspected its surface, searching for any indications of tampering. He then shifted his attention back to Brandt, briefly casting his gaze over Jim and Miss James before expressing his concerns, "It might be wise to have a Communications expert present. Additionally, I strongly recommend activating this device in a safe mode, utilizing the 'Sandbox' feature. There's a potential risk that this device could pose a serious threat to our entire system."

"You say that like you value your safety more than mine," Mazlish scoffed.

Caleb's expression soured at Mazlish's remark as he observed a young constable enter the room, carrying the docking station. Deliberately, the constable placed it on the table and proceeded to connect it to the central network hub, which powered by the department's mainframe.

"Mr. Mazlish, I prioritize the potential risks to this department diligently," Caleb explained, his concern evident in his voice. "While you are indeed a concern, I must emphasize that this particular device has the potential to cause significant harm to our mainframe."

Before receiving a response from Mazlish, the young constable swiftly loaded the device, projecting its interface onto a hologram display. Turning to Caleb, the constable shared their observations, "Rest assured, the device appears to be virus-free and devoid of traps. However, it is running at an unusually high temperature. Not to worry though, it's equipped with one of those antiquated Eversonian CPUs. Furthermore, the hard drive is completely saturated with data, currently holding a staggering ten terabytes, and it seems to be expanding continuously."

"Growing?" Caleb's eyebrows creased in confusion as he exchanged a quick glance with Brandt before focusing back on the young constable. "Just how old are you, kid?"

"I-I'm twenty-one," stammered the young constable, their fingers nervously tapping on the command panel placed on the table.

Caleb curiosity piqued. "Hmm, twenty-one. That's quite young. And what might your name be?" He directed his attention to the focused young man working diligently in front of him, awaiting his response.

"H-Hanno Yoshi. Sergeant," stammered the young Japanese man, his fingers trembling as he tapped away on the command panel.

Caleb's gaze softened as he heard the young man's response. "Yoshi. The good, respectful," he acknowledged, noting the evident blush on the twenty-one-year-old's face. With a determined nod, Caleb turned to Brandt and firmly stated, "I believe he should be part of the task force."

"Maybe," Brandt said with the hint of a stern look directed towards Weatherly. "That's not an offer of employment, Constable. But go on."

Yoshi's voice quivered slightly as he addressed the sergeant, "Sergeant, I've located the source file. It contains a multitude of images and videos, all of exceptional quality." He hesitated, his finger hovering over the latest file. "Sergeant, may I have your authorization to proceed and access the file?"

Caleb considered the request for a brief moment, his eyes narrowing as he assessed the situation. Finally, he nodded with a measured tone, giving his approval, "Proceed, Yoshi. Access the file and gather any pertinent information you can find."

Yoshi swallowed nervously, his hand trembling slightly as he took a deep breath. He replied to Caleb, "Understood, Sergeant. I will begin accessing the file and retrieve all relevant information."

Opening the file revealed a video recording. Caleb noticed Jim's lack of focus on the screen, prompting him to turn towards him and inquire, "Before we proceed with playing this video, is there anything we should brace ourselves for?"

"You well know I have nothing to hide," Mazlish said, puffing his chest out ever so slightly. He felt a nudge from his wife. He deflated a little, "... necessarily."

The room became quieter as Caleb and the others exchanged glances, unsure of what they were about to see. There was a tense atmosphere as if they were on the edge of a revelation that could challenge their beliefs. Caleb had a feeling that the situation was more complex than what Mazlish had confidently stated. Mentally preparing himself, he knew they were about to uncover the truth in the video.

“It’s playing sir!” exclaimed Yoshi as the video began to play.

The video started with a sinister chuckle, zooming in to reveal Jim seated in what appeared to be a recliner, completely naked except for a bow tie. "Where are all the girls? I was promised a full bottle spin!" he slurred, gesturing towards the others in the room. As the camera panned out, two naked Bajoran dwarf females entered the frame, one wielding a horse-riding whip and the other holding a broom handle. Caleb paused the video and addressed Mr Mazlish, "I think we've seen enough for now. Does any of this ring a bell to you?"

"You keep that video playing! I've told you I've got nothing to hide!" Mazlish spat. "Do you lot think you can embarrass me with this? Do you think this upsets my wife? Woman, tell them!"

Softly, Miss James spoke, her voice filled with a mix of strength and vulnerability, "I am aware that my husband has multiple sexual partners, yet I have chosen to stand by his side." She took a steadying breath before continuing, "However, there was another video attached to the one we watched.”

After opening the second attachment, Caleb exchanged a knowing nod with Yoshi, signalling him to play the file. As the video started, a soft giggle echoed through the room, followed by the words, “Come here, Minion.” Caleb's gaze shifted to Miss James, who sat there with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. The footage revealed a partially dressed Miss James, wearing a delicate, translucent nightdress that highlighted her cleavage. With a playful gesture, she beckoned, “Come here, silly puppy. Let's get you some dinner before I head off for a relaxing bath.” Caleb paused the video and couldn't help but comment, “I suppose this was filmed in your backyard?”

"That's correct. Surprisingly enough, it was shot from our pool shed," she softly uttered, casting a tender gaze towards the group of officers before returning her attention to Jim.

"I understand your concern, Miss James," Caleb acknowledged, his voice filled with empathy. He gave a subtle nod to Yoshi, signalling him to turn off the device, and settled back into his seat. Turning his gaze back to Jim, who now had a noticeably flushed face, Caleb commented, "I can see why you're concerned. It appears that they have managed to surpass your security measures, to say the least. Given the extensive list of potential culprits, do you have any inclination as to who might be behind this surveillance? Apart from the usual suspects who may have harboured ill will towards you, who else could wield such power?"

Mazlish hesitated for a moment as he went through a list in his head that seemed pre-prepared, "Uh... the McNeal family would be at the top of my list. It's no secret I used my position to deny them mining rights based on my preference for my own shareholdings. Oh, and did I mention just about any political rival; Paesano? McGuy and his precocious wretch of a wife? How about Valerie Archer? You don't think her retirement from the captaincy of her starship has anything to do with a tilt at MY SEAT?!?"

"Not particularly," Brandt smirked. "Weatherly, any intel on the people that Mister Mazlish has mentioned? Perhaps previous form in digital character assassination."

"I don't have the information off the top of my head, but I've just made a note of them in my notepad. However, I can already rule out one person. Paesano has a similar tenure in office, and if he desired, he could easily leave politics behind and secure a position in a lawyer's firm, considering his previous background. While his embarrassing ‘pantsing’, incident at the GFB Mining Foundation luncheon last month could be perceived as a motive, the man lacks the boldness to go after Mr. Mazlish," Caleb explained to Brandt as he diligently recorded the names mentioned by Mazlish. "To be honest, McGuy hasn't been on our radar at the SBPD. The PSU conducts investigations only with higher-ups' authorization. Nevertheless, I suggest we delve into McGuy's background, as well as that of his wife and former Captain Valerie Archer."

"You really think a Starfleet captain would target you, Mazlish?" Brandt asked.

"Not everyone is a Starfleet lapdog like it seems you are," Mazlish returned. "I know people who wear a uniform who are capable of just about anything. I want her investigated!"

"We... we can certainly try," The Assistant Commissioner acquiesced. "Just to make sure."

"Good, good," Mazlish nodded. "You there, Weatherly, didn't you guard Rebecca Clark?"

"Seems like such a simple question," Caleb pondered as he gazed at Mazlish, memories of the mission with Rebecca flooding his mind. "Indeed, I was part of her security detail, Mister Mazlish. However, I'm unable to divulge the specifics of her case. We successfully apprehended the individual responsible, who is currently confined to an off-world mental asylum. I endured three dilithium rounds to the chest because of that encounter. Nevertheless, although your situation differs from hers, it appears that this could potentially escalate into a kidnapping operation."

"Quite, she's told me all about it," Mazlish replied. "She sends her regards."

Caleb observed Mazlish's face, finding it easily punchable. With a confident thought, he said, "No doubt. Let's refocus on the task at hand, Jim. You're aware that as Miss Jones is a civilian, you'll be responsible for some of the operation's costs." Caleb glanced around the room before continuing, "We won't determine the exact amount until we conclude the investigation and apprehend the responsible individual or individuals."

"I have an open chequebook when it comes to my-- our safety, as I'm sure you're all aware," Mazlish stated, examining his manicured fingernails. "But I won't pay for sub-par service. I expect surveillance on the people and groups I've mentioned."

"Given some of these people are rivals in the upcoming election, Mister Mazlish, that will need to be cleared with the Federation Electoral Commission. The SBPD will not facilitate the collection of dirt on your rivals, whether they're political or financial," Brandt reminded the stuffy political ponce.

Mazlish's shifted his jaw, "I think you forget who the victim is here, Inspector Brandt."

"Chief Inspector Brandt is well aware," The Assistant Commissioner interjected, just so he was seen to be contributing.

"So, we start with Miss James' safety," Brandt began, "Weatherly, Yoshi, I want a plan formulated to cover Miss James' physical and digital protection. Once Miss James and Mr Mazlish agree, we'll outline a proposal for our next steps in assessing the potential threat makers in this situation and how we can best handle Mr Mazlish's security."

Weatherly nodded, fully understanding Brandt's request. "Certainly, I will take charge as the commander in the field and chief investigator. I recommend forming a 30-person team that includes you as the team leader, myself as the second-in-command, and Yoshi as a valuable member providing command support on the ground. We can enlist experienced operators from uniformed and non-uniformed officers to ensure a seamless operation."

"30 men? A bit over the top, isn't it?" Mazlish asked with a smirk. "My wife is no stranger to groups of large men, I assure you, but she is one woman, not Fort Knox."

Weatherly looked at Mazlish, maintaining a serious expression despite the remark. "I understand your concern, Mazlish," Weatherly replied calmly. "However, the scale of this operation necessitates a larger team. It's not just about ensuring the safety of your wife; we need to gather crucial evidence, coordinate logistics, and handle potential threats effectively. Besides, the number of personnel also accounts for shifts, breaks, and specialized roles within the team."

"Very well," Mazlish asked. The politician stopped for a moment, raising a finger to Brandt, "I want each member of that team scrutinised."

"Sergeant Weatherly and I will personally screen them," Brandt nodded. "We've both worked in SBPD Internal Affairs, in addition to our experience in personal security work. We have a screening playbook."

"Weatherly," Mazlish said, raising his chin, "What are the top three things you look for when selecting a 'squeaky clean' applicant. I don't want you to feel like this is a test, but this is a test."

Weatherly smiled as he contemplated the question, glancing at Yoshi and Brandt before returning to Mazlish. "When it comes to what I seek in others, I prioritize three qualities: honesty, loyalty, and integrity. Does that provide a simple enough answer to your question, Mr. Mazlish?"

"Simple enough," Mazlish nodded. The politician clicked his fingers and began to pace around the room like Detective Columbo, no doubt a folklore hero for those in the room, "Mister Weatherly, I've been in enough rooms with enough scumbags to know that if you were to consider those qualities on face value, you could assemble yourself the seedest sack of sycophants and psychopaths this side of Starbase 7."

The Assistant Commissioner looked like he was going to vomit as he rolled his eyes.

"What would you suggest, then, Mister Mazlish," Brandt asked.

"Oh, I'm suddenly Mister... 'expert in the room'?" The Council Member huffed.

"No, I was just wondering what else you'd consider," Brandt said, "Where else would you start, aside from what Sergeant Weatherly had suggested?"

"Their vices, their affiliations and their reactions," Mazlish countered. "If I started with the Assistant Commissioner here, I'd--"

"Jim!" Lana spat. He stepped between Mazlish and the assembled police officers. "Can't you see they're trying to help us?"

"Can't you see I'm trying to help us?" Mazlish returned.

"You're trying to help you," She muttered. With that, she rushed out of the office.

"Oh, don't give me that!" Mazlish called. He looked to the officers, and then to the woman who was running away. "Where are you going you stupid fuckin'--"

"Uh," Brandt stumbled. He pointed to the door, "Weatherly, you'd better..."

"Oh, right!" exclaimed Weatherly, fully aware of his superior's intentions. He quickly stood up from the table and rushed outside, motivated to catch up with Lana as he heard her instructing officers and department employees to move out of her way in the hallway.

As the Sergeant went after Mazlish's woman, the politician went to the office door. He called after the officer, "If one hair on her head is harmed, Weatherly, I will hold you personally responsible, I will personally have you hung by your toenails like a bat!"

"Perhaps, Mister Mazlish, we should have some officers escort you back to your accommodation," Brandt suggested. "We'll submit our plans for your review in writing by close of business today."

Mazlish looked sheepishly between the men, "Very well."

"Good," Brandt nodded. "Sergeants Grubb and James will escort you home in unmarked transportation. I'll arrange it now."

"Thank you, Chief Inspector Brandt," The Assistant Commissioner said. He stepped past the two men, "I'll call you later."

"You got it," Brandt nodded as he tapped away into his secured coms device. He followed the Assistant Commissioner's exit from the corner of his eye, then studied Yoshi standing in the corner, holding his computer, the kid not quite sure how he'd exit the room. Mazlish, the former Commissioner didn't pay any mind to.

"I meant what I said about what to look for," Mazlish offered quietly, "Weatherly's right; honesty, loyalty and integrity get you through the door, but it's what makes a person tick that truly decides their worth to you."

"Mister Mazlish," Brandt began, pursing his lips as he stepped toward the politician. He noticed Mazlish puff out his chest a little as the former Commissioner towered over him. Brandt simply smiled and gestured to the door, "Your car is here."

OFF

 

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