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The Seven Virtues #0.5
The Silent Blade
The Downs, the poor district of the city of Avarest, is home to cutthroats and thieves, pickpockets and prostitutes, all of whom pay tribute to one of two powerful crime bosses. It is also home to Aaron Envelar, a disillusioned sellsword known as the Silent Blade, who cares nothing for the criminal overlords or their schemes, who only wants to survive and make a little coin in the process.
But when a group of unwitting thugs steal his mother’s necklace, the only link he has to his murdered parents, Aaron decides that sometimes gold isn’t enough—sometimes, blood is the only payment worth taking. And whatever else will come, this time, he will not be silent. After all, when you take everything from a man, what else does he have to lose?
But when a group of unwitting thugs steal his mother’s necklace, the only link he has to his murdered parents, Aaron decides that sometimes gold isn’t enough—sometimes, blood is the only payment worth taking. And whatever else will come, this time, he will not be silent. After all, when you take everything from a man, what else does he have to lose?
78 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 5, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
July 23, 2018
Downloaded the audio for free from Audfans. I recommend you do the same.
A man walked into a bar and said "ouch!"
It was an iron bar.
Okay, try a blood-drenched man walks into a bar. Things go downhill. Everyone gets slaughtered except said blood-drenched man and the owner's daughter. It turns out the man is the titular Silent Blade, a top-notch assassin with a conscience. He decides to seek revenge, and takes on a local gang-lord.
Pacing is great, story is well-written and fun, with some great lines thrown in. Obviously the hero is going to make it through (it is part of a series), but it certainty is no walk in the park.
Well worth a read/listen. I will definitely check out more of the author's work based on this one.
A man walked into a bar and said "ouch!"
It was an iron bar.
Okay, try a blood-drenched man walks into a bar. Things go downhill. Everyone gets slaughtered except said blood-drenched man and the owner's daughter. It turns out the man is the titular Silent Blade, a top-notch assassin with a conscience. He decides to seek revenge, and takes on a local gang-lord.
Pacing is great, story is well-written and fun, with some great lines thrown in. Obviously the hero is going to make it through (it is part of a series), but it certainty is no walk in the park.
Well worth a read/listen. I will definitely check out more of the author's work based on this one.
December 1, 2018
Nice little grimdark novella worth reading. Going to read more by this author.
July 18, 2021
Notes:
Currently on Audible Plus
The short felt somewhat abrupt, but I gained a good idea of what the main character is like and writer's storytelling style. The first book of the series is on the current Audible sale. I'll take a chance & get it.
Currently on Audible Plus
The short felt somewhat abrupt, but I gained a good idea of what the main character is like and writer's storytelling style. The first book of the series is on the current Audible sale. I'll take a chance & get it.
February 9, 2021
This was a let down. I was expecting a book about a skilled intelligent mercenary who new what he was doing. The main character instead is the equivalent of Homer Simpson trying to be a ninja...Utterly ridiculous. Oh and top it off the main character is wimp who cries and won't really fight back. I mean you would think with how upset he was up over his mother's necklace he would kill the guy responsible. But no after slaughtering a bunch of the guys men he was like I can't hurt him everyone will be after me...I just went uhh bit late for that. Utterly ridiculous and made no sense whatsoever. Such a piss poor story.
August 19, 2019
Silent Blade is a short Novella (around 57pages) that serves well as an introduction into 'The Seven Virtues' series, that starts with 'A Sellsword's Compassion'.
In this we meet Aaron Envelar... The Silent Blade... A Mercenary type, but with a bit more heart than the average Mercenary.
After having people try and kill him, steal something valuable from him and leave him for dead... Aaron decides enough is enough...
This is hard hitting and bloody. We meet lots of interesting characters along the way some more sympathetic than others and considering how short this is the author let's you feel the size of the world he had created. Proper Grimdark this is not for the squeamish... However I really enjoyed reading it and on the strength of some quality writing look forward to reading the rest in this series.... An author to look out for
In this we meet Aaron Envelar... The Silent Blade... A Mercenary type, but with a bit more heart than the average Mercenary.
After having people try and kill him, steal something valuable from him and leave him for dead... Aaron decides enough is enough...
This is hard hitting and bloody. We meet lots of interesting characters along the way some more sympathetic than others and considering how short this is the author let's you feel the size of the world he had created. Proper Grimdark this is not for the squeamish... However I really enjoyed reading it and on the strength of some quality writing look forward to reading the rest in this series.... An author to look out for
May 9, 2019
2019 Grade F
Just quick note that I advise against this book. It was gross and should come with an R or worse rating. It was extremely well written, but it is a violent story that takes place in the poor part of town in a medieval setting. It is just plain gross in places and many, many people die at the hands of very nasty people. I did finish it, although I skipped at lot in the conclusion which is worse than the rest of the book. It was only the book's shortness and the quality of the writing that kept me going. I abandoned the longer Peppers novel I tried and this makes me glad I did.
You will have to make your own decision on whether to read the book or not, but it does not seem to have any redeeming values.
*NOT* recommended.
Just quick note that I advise against this book. It was gross and should come with an R or worse rating. It was extremely well written, but it is a violent story that takes place in the poor part of town in a medieval setting. It is just plain gross in places and many, many people die at the hands of very nasty people. I did finish it, although I skipped at lot in the conclusion which is worse than the rest of the book. It was only the book's shortness and the quality of the writing that kept me going. I abandoned the longer Peppers novel I tried and this makes me glad I did.
You will have to make your own decision on whether to read the book or not, but it does not seem to have any redeeming values.
*NOT* recommended.
February 10, 2019
Prequel type book that allows the reader to get their first impression of Aaron Envelar, aka Silent Blade and world building of this epic fantasy series. The story introduces Aaron and his skills that I'm sure will come in handy as the series progresses. Mystery elements have me wondering what is being hidden and how soon the reader will be able to find out .... the rest of the story.
Gripping, intriquing, I definitely want more.
Gripping, intriquing, I definitely want more.
January 4, 2019
"Recklessness and desperation will kill a man quicker than any blade. Knowledge and patience—these are a swordsman’s greatest weapons".
Vivid, vicious, and with a welcome shot of grim justice, I feel a little like I'm reading about medieval Batman and I'm with it.
Vivid, vicious, and with a welcome shot of grim justice, I feel a little like I'm reading about medieval Batman and I'm with it.
May 19, 2022
It had a promising start, great writing (but without the whity or poetic metaphores), and interesting side characters.
But when it came to a motiv, or some parts further on, it just let go of that briliance. A shame, because I kept thinking I’m reading/listening to a John Wick novel set in medieval times.
Nevertheless, it was enjoyable, and a fast read. Wish it had something deaper then the plain vengance story.
But when it came to a motiv, or some parts further on, it just let go of that briliance. A shame, because I kept thinking I’m reading/listening to a John Wick novel set in medieval times.
Nevertheless, it was enjoyable, and a fast read. Wish it had something deaper then the plain vengance story.
March 12, 2024
Great short novella. Definitely going to read the rest of the series.
November 22, 2019
Aaron tortures Grinner's second for Claude after he stops him mutilating someone. Takes Claude with. They go to the fancy part of town where C feels safe so he walks off after showing A where Grinner is. That's some stupid timing. So Aaron crushes his throat and walks into the church. Kills a big guard. Finds out Grinner burned his necklace and tells Grinner if he messe with Aaron doom. Also the inn keepers daughter was given to his men so Aaron goes and saves her. She finishes 1 off. He says all men are monsters, she says not all - he saved her, he says he's the biggest of them all. Going to have to work on your monstrous actions for that to be true, Aaron.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 27, 2018
The Silent Blade was the first piece I've ever read of his. And man!! I cannot believe I hadn't heard of him before now! One of my favorite things to read is an assassin anti-hero. Combine that with torture and a mad dungeon master style character (and more that I won’t spoil) and you’ve got yourself a whole lot of awesomeness.
Beautifully written and wonderfully dark.
If you enjoy Brent Weeks, Brandon Sanderson, Richard Knaak, and Mark Lawrence, you should definitely pick this up. You're in for one helluva ride!
Beautifully written and wonderfully dark.
If you enjoy Brent Weeks, Brandon Sanderson, Richard Knaak, and Mark Lawrence, you should definitely pick this up. You're in for one helluva ride!
February 28, 2020
Alrighty, then! For a novella this had so much killing I couldn’t even tell you how many died. But it was actually a good little story and I might read/listen to another one about Aaron Envelar, of the Seven Virtues series.
No sex and the F-bomb was used 9 times.
As to the narration: Steven Brand did a fine job on the men’s voices and his emotions but he does need some help with the women’s voices.
April 3, 2022
This is a The Seven Virtues prequel novella, and my latest completed from the free Podium Audio fantasy prequels on Audible.
This one is a very fast paced, action packed, bloodbath. When a sellsword’s necklace—the only earthly possession he has of his mother’s—gets stolen, he does what any person would do…he cuts (and guts) a path of destruction across the seedier part of the city known as The Downs. I won’t give anymore away, but I loved the use of a morally gray character that you’re still made to love.
The author does a good job of gearing this prequel towards introducing this one character. While various others are more than likely introduced as well (I haven’t read the series), the two chapter novella focuses on Aaron Envelar, or as he’s known through reputation, the silent blade. Although, I will say that he’s definitely making some noise in this tale.
The world the author creates is a seedy fantasy one that is seemingly without magic. The Downs are the poor, more spaced out, part of the city. The reader also gets to see the rich part of the city which to me felt kind like a bustling Rome, but that may have just been because of the shop descriptions.
Personally a 4.5/5* on this one, I really enjoyed it. This series is a 7 book one, which is a bit longer than I’m looking for right now, but I’m really interested in continuing.
This one is a very fast paced, action packed, bloodbath. When a sellsword’s necklace—the only earthly possession he has of his mother’s—gets stolen, he does what any person would do…he cuts (and guts) a path of destruction across the seedier part of the city known as The Downs. I won’t give anymore away, but I loved the use of a morally gray character that you’re still made to love.
The author does a good job of gearing this prequel towards introducing this one character. While various others are more than likely introduced as well (I haven’t read the series), the two chapter novella focuses on Aaron Envelar, or as he’s known through reputation, the silent blade. Although, I will say that he’s definitely making some noise in this tale.
The world the author creates is a seedy fantasy one that is seemingly without magic. The Downs are the poor, more spaced out, part of the city. The reader also gets to see the rich part of the city which to me felt kind like a bustling Rome, but that may have just been because of the shop descriptions.
Personally a 4.5/5* on this one, I really enjoyed it. This series is a 7 book one, which is a bit longer than I’m looking for right now, but I’m really interested in continuing.
July 6, 2019
I believe this is the first book of Jacob's I have read and I am sure I will be reading more. After all that has happened in this story I need to know more about Silent! Sometimes you just need some stabbing in your life...
April 4, 2022
Enjoyed this quite a bit. A nice look at what makes Aaron tick. I would have liked this even before starting the series featuring the Silent Blade, but it really compliments the character as I've met him two books in. Bloody, heroic action by a deadly man on a mission. A hero despite his denial.
May 30, 2022
Good little quick read and very bloody hahaha
November 1, 2018
I found this title on some email listing of free and discounted offerings. The blurb was interesting, as was the cover, so I took a chance. I enjoyed the story and will give the start of the series a try. I do hope for the world building in the first title, as this story went into full tilt action, with little backstory. It's a good tease for taking the next step into the series.
Additionally, the author offers a free book in another series for joining his mailing list. I'm trying that one next.
June 24, 2019
Not for the feint hearted
This story is very dark, very gruesome, and very good.
While he's an interesting and complex person, I'm not entirely certain I like Aaron a.k.a. The Silent Blade - as a character he's very compelling, but we really only get to see his angry/vengeful side in this story.
I feel invested and am really looking forward to reading on and getting to know him better. I also look forward to learning about the fantasy aspect of this series, I have a feeling it has something to do with the necklace . . .
This story is very dark, very gruesome, and very good.
While he's an interesting and complex person, I'm not entirely certain I like Aaron a.k.a. The Silent Blade - as a character he's very compelling, but we really only get to see his angry/vengeful side in this story.
I feel invested and am really looking forward to reading on and getting to know him better. I also look forward to learning about the fantasy aspect of this series, I have a feeling it has something to do with the necklace . . .
March 13, 2018
Aaron Envelar has lost everything and now his mother's necklace has been stolen. it was the only thing he had left of her after she and his father had been murdered. Now he must find the crime lord who made his life so miserable, in the hopes of getting the necklace back.
An interesting short story. I liked Aaron and would very much like to read more about him.
I received this story free from the author.
An interesting short story. I liked Aaron and would very much like to read more about him.
I received this story free from the author.
July 21, 2018
My first read from author Jacob Peppers. I'd gotten the Kindle edition back in April and never got around to reading it until the author gave me an Audfans audible edition. Great read, great narration! For two days (July 21st and July 22nd' 2018) you'll be able to pick up Resolve at 99 cents, but you'll ALSO be able to get A Sellsword's Compassion and a Sellsword's Wrath each for 99 cents as well!
November 12, 2017
Jp
I've started to read a lot of debut stories that are reportedly well written but are not. Nothing will put me off than the need to repeat a character's name at least ten times in a paragraph. This was very well written and the character instantly appealing. I will certainly be reading more from this author
I've started to read a lot of debut stories that are reportedly well written but are not. Nothing will put me off than the need to repeat a character's name at least ten times in a paragraph. This was very well written and the character instantly appealing. I will certainly be reading more from this author
June 14, 2018
Not for me.
This book was rushed and jumped around to much. I understand it was a novella but it gave no details it was just a bunch of killing to get a necklace. I won't be continuing the series.
This book was rushed and jumped around to much. I understand it was a novella but it gave no details it was just a bunch of killing to get a necklace. I won't be continuing the series.
August 11, 2021
The Silent Blade is a novella in the Seven Virtues series that takes place as one can assume at the beginning, I’m not really sure to be honest since the story doesn’t actually give us a time frame. The story focuses on Aaron and his very long night of getting back his mother’s necklace that was stolen from him.
This is an incredibly quick paced story, we get introduced to Aaron, who is already suffering from his first encounter with death for this long night he has ahead of himself. The story is action packed and at times feels almost too fast, it took me a while to realize all of these events where unfolding in one night. It was nice to see Peppers show how the loss of blood was effecting Aaron as the story went on as well as him making bad decisions because he was rushing and not thinking properly. He is a messy character and he acts erratic at times and that makes his character more real, this story really focuses on his vengeful and gruesome side so at his point this is all we know of him but it works for the story since he is mad. We get glimpses into his past and even some insight to the world at large there are crime bosses who he works for at times, but also want him dead because he wont fully sign with one or the other, there is also the mention of the Royal Seven, the difference between the Downs, where Aaron does his work and of course the rich neighborhood, God’s Row, and having these little bits mentioned really pulled at my curiosity. So I’m inclined to pick up the next book in the series.
This is more action then story, the whole plot revolves around Aaron’s lost necklace and his reckless night to get it back so it involves him hunting people down for answers and beating and killing people to get what he wants. It is graphic, messy and for some probably gross, there is gruesome torture that is described in detail so if you are of the squeamish kind I wouldn’t recommend this. Blood, guts and everything else is thrown into the fights.
I was a little let down with the end of the story but I am assuming that it ended the way it did because Peppers has a larger plan in mind, but it also just felt like a cop out as Aaron had no qualms about killing everyone else to get to where he got only to make the opposite choice the reader was lead to believe was going to happen.
The biggest thing that bothered me about the story was the way all the women where described, they where either bar whores, prostitutes, unnecessary focus on their bosoms, and so fourth, you know the typical oldschool way of treating your female characters that we really need to work on moving away from. Sure there is one who is apparently side jobbing as a nurse (or she just used her sewing skills to patch up Aaron don’t really know). Even May who is suppose to be the strong female character type was portrayed with focus on her bosoms, and I don’t understand how her character is considered “feared” by everyone but at the same time she doesn’t have the man power to take on the other crime bosses? I’m confused, how does that work? How and why is she feared if its not based around her ability to take the other crime bosses in a fight with force? This is not elaborated on and maybe in later installments it will be, but it gives a very confusing view of how important or impactful May is suppose to be in this world. There is even, of course, a moment when one of the girls is almost raped, but is of course, saved by our protagonist, because you know everyone just loves this trope (if you can’t read my sarcasm in this sentence I don’t know what to tell you).
Overall The Silent Blade is an extremely fast introduction to Aaron with hints to what kind of world he lives in. There are elements that have caught my attention and will be bringing me back to the world. So if you are down for a fast read that is gruesome and action packed this a decent one to check out.
You can find this review as well as others on my blog
Into the Heartwyld
This is an incredibly quick paced story, we get introduced to Aaron, who is already suffering from his first encounter with death for this long night he has ahead of himself. The story is action packed and at times feels almost too fast, it took me a while to realize all of these events where unfolding in one night. It was nice to see Peppers show how the loss of blood was effecting Aaron as the story went on as well as him making bad decisions because he was rushing and not thinking properly. He is a messy character and he acts erratic at times and that makes his character more real, this story really focuses on his vengeful and gruesome side so at his point this is all we know of him but it works for the story since he is mad. We get glimpses into his past and even some insight to the world at large there are crime bosses who he works for at times, but also want him dead because he wont fully sign with one or the other, there is also the mention of the Royal Seven, the difference between the Downs, where Aaron does his work and of course the rich neighborhood, God’s Row, and having these little bits mentioned really pulled at my curiosity. So I’m inclined to pick up the next book in the series.
This is more action then story, the whole plot revolves around Aaron’s lost necklace and his reckless night to get it back so it involves him hunting people down for answers and beating and killing people to get what he wants. It is graphic, messy and for some probably gross, there is gruesome torture that is described in detail so if you are of the squeamish kind I wouldn’t recommend this. Blood, guts and everything else is thrown into the fights.
I was a little let down with the end of the story but I am assuming that it ended the way it did because Peppers has a larger plan in mind, but it also just felt like a cop out as Aaron had no qualms about killing everyone else to get to where he got only to make the opposite choice the reader was lead to believe was going to happen.
The biggest thing that bothered me about the story was the way all the women where described, they where either bar whores, prostitutes, unnecessary focus on their bosoms, and so fourth, you know the typical oldschool way of treating your female characters that we really need to work on moving away from. Sure there is one who is apparently side jobbing as a nurse (or she just used her sewing skills to patch up Aaron don’t really know). Even May who is suppose to be the strong female character type was portrayed with focus on her bosoms, and I don’t understand how her character is considered “feared” by everyone but at the same time she doesn’t have the man power to take on the other crime bosses? I’m confused, how does that work? How and why is she feared if its not based around her ability to take the other crime bosses in a fight with force? This is not elaborated on and maybe in later installments it will be, but it gives a very confusing view of how important or impactful May is suppose to be in this world. There is even, of course, a moment when one of the girls is almost raped, but is of course, saved by our protagonist, because you know everyone just loves this trope (if you can’t read my sarcasm in this sentence I don’t know what to tell you).
Overall The Silent Blade is an extremely fast introduction to Aaron with hints to what kind of world he lives in. There are elements that have caught my attention and will be bringing me back to the world. So if you are down for a fast read that is gruesome and action packed this a decent one to check out.
You can find this review as well as others on my blog
Into the Heartwyld
August 2, 2021
I'm not usually this far from the general consensus, but I can't see how this novella could've earned an average rating of 4 stars. The rest of the series may be miles better than this part of it, inflating people's opinion of it by association. Or perhaps people are more charitable towards something they received for free. Of course, it's always possible that I'm just too dumb to see the quality of this work. All it was good for was teaching me to better appreciate actual good fantasy writers.
This novella felt like painfully generic dark fantasy, seemingly written by a desperately edgy 15-year-old. There isn't even a hint of impressive prose, engaging plot or clever banter to be found anywhere. I even predicted most of the "brilliant" comebacks whenever two characters threaten one another.
What's the plot? All this told with one-dimensional, cliche characters living in the equally overdone slum streets of a pseudo-medieval city. After all this, when the novella ended on , I couldn't help bursting out laughing. It was some of the most unearned "deep" introspection I can think of ever reading.
This novella felt like painfully generic dark fantasy, seemingly written by a desperately edgy 15-year-old. There isn't even a hint of impressive prose, engaging plot or clever banter to be found anywhere. I even predicted most of the "brilliant" comebacks whenever two characters threaten one another.
What's the plot? All this told with one-dimensional, cliche characters living in the equally overdone slum streets of a pseudo-medieval city. After all this, when the novella ended on , I couldn't help bursting out laughing. It was some of the most unearned "deep" introspection I can think of ever reading.
November 11, 2021
"𝙄'𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙞𝙜𝙜𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙢 𝙖𝙡𝙡..."
A very well written grimdark novella, prequel to The Seven Virtues series. The first half of this tale was incredibly engrossing, but lost it's momentum after that despite remaining fast paced. The protagonist, Aaron Envelar - aka the 'Silent Blade', receives an admirable amount of development considering this story's size, and is an overall interesting character who continues to be the main (anti) hero throughout the Seven Virtues series.
Whilst I don't expect a novella to contain a significant amount of plot, The Silent Blade would have benefited from a little more depth to it's story and lore, instead of the continuous bloodbath that arrives after the theft of our mercenary's mother's necklace.
Overall a decent short, but I don't think I'll be rushing to read the next.
A very well written grimdark novella, prequel to The Seven Virtues series. The first half of this tale was incredibly engrossing, but lost it's momentum after that despite remaining fast paced. The protagonist, Aaron Envelar - aka the 'Silent Blade', receives an admirable amount of development considering this story's size, and is an overall interesting character who continues to be the main (anti) hero throughout the Seven Virtues series.
Whilst I don't expect a novella to contain a significant amount of plot, The Silent Blade would have benefited from a little more depth to it's story and lore, instead of the continuous bloodbath that arrives after the theft of our mercenary's mother's necklace.
Overall a decent short, but I don't think I'll be rushing to read the next.
July 25, 2022
The Silent Blade is an novella focussing on giving some backstory to Aaron's character. It's one of those origin stories that I'm not sure about; Aaron's character is far less refined here and although it's difficult to put an exact time frame to it, it seems like he's a lot younger than in the main novels. A lot of the relatively short length is taken up by violence, so there's little further character development although I was interested to see Grinner's roots. It's also a remarkably 'low stakes' conflict - a stolen necklace at the heart of it - which seemed at odds with the blood and butchery on display. As a freebie it's worth picking up and reading, but it doesn't really add a whole lot to the main series.
August 7, 2024
The Silent Blade is a deliciously dark novella about Aaron Envelar, a sellsword also known as the Silent Blade. There is plenty of action, although the story revolves around something so simple as a necklace being stolen. I'm not entirely sure if I 100% connected with Aaron during this little adventure, but I'm fairly certain the series proper will give me more backstory and depth. This novella serves more as a taste, rather than as a standalone adventure. It was entertaining, bloody, and dark.
Note: I listened to the audiobook. Steven Brand did a decent job overall, putting good pacing into his narration and emotion where need be. I only wished it was a bit easier to keep track on who's talking.
Note: I listened to the audiobook. Steven Brand did a decent job overall, putting good pacing into his narration and emotion where need be. I only wished it was a bit easier to keep track on who's talking.
January 29, 2022
Gripping read!
I could not put this down! I stayed up all night to finish it. Being a prequel it is a quick read, but oh my! What an exciting read it was! I absolutely am thrilled with Aaron and can't wait to get started on the next book. It is edge of your seat reading with swords, blood, guts and plenty of action. I fully recommend this book! I have just found a new favorite author to add to my shelves. Very pleased. I must say it is very well written which pleasantly surprised me and was an added bonus.
I could not put this down! I stayed up all night to finish it. Being a prequel it is a quick read, but oh my! What an exciting read it was! I absolutely am thrilled with Aaron and can't wait to get started on the next book. It is edge of your seat reading with swords, blood, guts and plenty of action. I fully recommend this book! I have just found a new favorite author to add to my shelves. Very pleased. I must say it is very well written which pleasantly surprised me and was an added bonus.
March 7, 2022
I've given 4 stars simply because I couldn't listen to the book but don't know if there is a print/kindle version. As such I don't want the author to receive a negative review for the story itself. However, the audible book was horrific simply down to the performance. It was lacking any feeling, punctuation, intonation or fluidity. I even garnered a second opinion to confirm my opinion. I will avoid future audible books narrated by Steven Brand but will try to source a print version of the book.
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