Sister's Keeper

Disclaimer: I do not own Game of Thrones

Chapter 12: The City of Qarth

After three long days, we arrived in the city of Qarth. Ser Jorah was not joking about the valley that was surrounded by bones. The closer we got to the wall, the few the skulls appeared. Up ahead, was the wall that surrounded the city, about fifty feet tall. Out of precaution, we put the dragons in their cage. Viserion and Drogon hissed at us, but we knew it was for the best. We are in unknown territory, a merchant city, and where there are merchants, there are thieves.

"Control your emotions," I told Daenerys.

"What do you mean?" Daenerys asked, slightly impulsive.

Ever since Daenerys left Vaes Dothrak with more confidence after Viserys death, except her decisions have become impulsive. At first, I assumed it was the mood-swings and hormones of being pregnant. But lately, these spontaneous behavior costs Drogo's life and the original Khalasar against us. Young that she maybe, she is now a Khaleesi, and people are relying on her.

"You can be impulsive," I answered. "They have the upper hand, and we don't. We must please them to open the gate."

"Can you do the talking?" Daenerys asked.

"This is not my Khalasar," I reminded. "But I can see what I can."

Daenerys nodded, as we drew closer to the wall. By the time we reach the gate, we were greeted by guards holding spears and shield. Behind them were men dressed in elegant silks and gold. We kept our distance, being considerate to the Capitals customs. Daenerys was not pleased.

"I thought we were welcome," Daenerys said.

"If you heard a Dothraki horde was approaching your city, you might do the same, Khaleesi," Ser Jorah replied.

Daenerys looked at her Khalasar which was more in the size of a caravan, "Horde?"

One man out of the group came forward wearing an orange robe with golden designs, and jeweled beetles on his shoulder. He appeared middle age, balding with tan skin. He must be the leader of the Thirteen.

"My name is Alysanne—" I started.

"Alysanne of the House Targaryen," the representative interrupted. "And your sister, Daenerys Stormborn."

"You know of us, my lord?" I asked.

"Only by reputation, your grace," he answered. "And I'm no lord, merely a humble merchant. They call you two the Dragon Sisters. Like you, your grace, are the Dragoness of the West and the Khaleesi, the Mother of Dragons."

"And may I ask of your name, sir?" I asked.

"Oh, my name is quite long and quite impossible for foreigners to pronounce," he passive-aggressively answered. "I am simply a trader of spices. But we are the Thirteen, charged with the governance and protection of Qarth, the greatest city that ever was or will be."

"The beauty of Qarth is legendary," I said, making sure I pronounced the city correctly.

"I appreciate the compliment," he said. "Might we see the dragons?"

I glanced over my shoulder to look at the cages. I debated, maybe presenting Viserion would be enough to allow us access. It was a risk, one I'm willing to take until Daenerys stepped forward into the conversation.

"My…friend," Daenerys said. "We have no food, no water. Once I see my people fed, we are honored—"

"Forgive me, Mother of Dragons, but no man alive has seen a living dragon." He said. "Some of my more skeptical friends refused to believe your children even exist. All we ask is the chance to see for ourselves."

Daenerys scowled, "I am not a liar."

"Oh, I don't think you are." He replied sarcastically. "But as I've never met you before, my opinion on the matter is of limited value."

"Where I come from, guests are treated with respect, not insulted at the gates," Daenerys forced out, trying to be kind, yet the annoyance can be detected.

"Danny, enough," I hissed.

"Then perhaps you should return to where you come from," He said calmly. "We wish you well."

Daenerys marched over, I tried to stop her, but it was the guards to stopped her pointing their spears.

"What are you doing?" She demanded. "You promised to receive us?"

The representative turned around, "We have received you. Here we are, and here you are."

"If you do not let us in, all of us will die." She said.

"Which we shall deeply regret." He said. "But Qarth did not become the greatest city that ever was or will be by letting Dothraki savages through its gates."

He gave a bow and joined the rest of the thirteen.

"Khaleesi, please be careful," Ser Jorah warned.

Daenerys growled as she bellowed, "Thirteen!"

This caused the men to stop and face us.

"When my dragons are grown, we will take back what was stolen from us and destroy those who wronged us. We will lay waste to armies and burn cities to the ground. Turn us away, and we will burn you first."

Daenerys! I mentally yelled.

The representative came back to us, pointing his finger, "Ah. You are a true Targaryen. Only, as you said a moment ago, if we don't let you into the city, you will all die. And so…"

"If I present you my dragon, will you allow us access," I interrupted. "Does the offer still stand?"

The baffled the man while Daenerys grabbed my arm tightly. The men huddle, discussing it until their representative came forward. "Yes."

I yanked my arm from Daenerys and walked over to the cages opening Viserion crate. The dragon stretched and immediately climbed on me, onto my shoulders. I return presenting Viserion to the Thirteen. All were astonished, seeing the dragon for the first time in centuries. Daenerys scowled at me while Ser Jorah remained quiet. I do not care; my sister's temper almost risks the lives of the Khalasar. Let alone, that is not how I want to present House Targaryen. We are not going to be tyrants. Our ancestors relied on threats, and it resulted in our near extinction.

The representative came over faced to face as he reached out to touch the dragon. However, Viserion growled, almost biting him in warning that caused the man to stumble back.

"That animal is a risk to our city," the representative snapped in fear.

"You promised- "

"Retreating in fear from a woman is unbecoming of the greatest city that ever was or will be. When you made a promise in which she obliged. We saw the dragon, now let them in," another man joined the conversation. He was tall and muscular, having dark skin, thinning hair, and a beard.

"The discussion is over, Xaro Xhoan Daxos," the representative said. "The Thirteen have spoken."

"I am one of the Thirteen, and I am still speaking," the dark man said.

"The girl threatens to burn our city to the ground, and this dragon almost bit my finger off, and you would invite her in for a cup of wine?" The leader asked.

"They are the Dragon Sisters," Xaro Xhoan Daxos reminded. "Do you expect them to watch their people starve without breathing fire? I believe we can allow a few Dothraki through our gates without dooming our city. After all, here I am, a savage from the Summer Isles and Qarth still stands."

"Our decision is final," the leader said.

"Very well," Xaro Xhoan Daxos replied, stepping forward. "I invoke Sumai." He pulled out a dagger, "I will vouch for them, the people, and their dragons in accordance with the law." He then cut his hand directly in the representative's face and showed the injury to the others.

"Be it on your head," the representative warned bitterly, joining the others.

Xaro Xhoan Daxos turned to me with a smile, waving his bloody hand to the gates that open, "Welcome to Qarth, my ladies."

The gates open revealing the Great City of Qarth.

I turned to Daenerys shocked in what happened, but she could tell I was not pleased with her manners. I warned her before to control her emotions, for we were in unknown territory near the desert. The Khalasar needed food, water, and shelter. Any more exposure to the sun and they will die of sunstroke in a few days. Ser Jorah stood there impressed, but also cautious. If it weren't for Xaro Xhoan Daxos performing Sumai then our fate was done.

Nothing else to say, I started walking with Viserion on my shoulder.

.o0o.

Xaro Xhoan Daxos was considerate in being our host. He took us to his palace which was grander than Magister Illyrio's manse in Pentos. Practically having acres of land, filled with buildings and gardens. He gave us an entire wing, and told his staff to provide any accommodations for the Khalasar. Giving us a tour, he presented the apartment where Daenerys and I would be staying, on each side was a bedchamber and in the center was a joining solar lounge. The room had a three-sided wall, as the main wall was an open window that viewed the gardens. In the gardens, it smelled of lavender and mint, where a marble bathing pooled stocked with goldfish.

"I hope the apartment is to your liking, your grace," Xaro said.

"It's more than enough," I said. "Thank you."

"The pleasure is all mine," he said.

"I apologize for my sister's behavior at the gates," I started.

He chuckled softly, "Fire is in her heart. All is forgiven. The Spice King is one who should be asking for forgiveness. You gave what was requested, and he turned you down for attempting to pet your dragon without consent."

I nodded, seeing he understand that. Viserion is very protective of me. Other than Daenerys, he doesn't allow anyone to touch him. Ser Jorah received a nip when he tried to pet Viserion. At least the golden dragon gave a warning, and not an actual bite.

"Still, I don't know how to repay you," I said.

"You can repay me by attending a party I'll be hosting in a few days. Many of my friends and colleagues would be interested in meeting Alysanne Targaryen, the rightful Queen of the Andals and the First Men." He requested. "Although, the dragons will have to remain here as a precaution."

"I understand," I assured.

"Rest, your grace. I shall have my staff attend to your sister's Khalasar and healers to those in need."

He took my hand and gave peck on the knuckle. With a bow and smile, he left my bedchambers to attend his daily living. I stood there baffled, not expecting such hospitality. Majority of my life on the west side of Essos, Viserys received the praise and attention. Now Xaro Xhoan Daxos is giving me the attention. Also, a rare gesture that Viserys was unable to provide. I felt my cheeks warm, until hearing a slight crackle. I glanced at Viserion who was giving his version of a smirk.

"Don't get any ideas," I told him, grabbing Viserion and placed him on the table.

Not long after, there was a knock on the door.

"Who is it?" I asked.

"It's me," Daenerys answered.

"Enter," I said.

Daenerys came in along with two Dothraki men bringing my things in. Not long after, the men left, and Daenerys remained. I sat on the bed with my arms crossed still disappointed in her behavior. She sensed it, looking down at her feet.

"I'm sorry," she mumbled.

"What did I tell you when approaching the gate?" I asked.

"To control my emotions," she answered.

"And did you?"

"They were going to let us die."

"I had everything under control, and you barge into the conversation demanding their hospitality. Viserys never demand entrance, it was given. Also, you threaten them. You never threaten a leader unless it means of war." I scolded. "We have seventy-five people and three baby dragons against a city-state. While you were thinking about your pride, I was thinking about your people. What was the downfall to our House?"

Daenerys did not answer.

"Our House is in crisis because of pride and madness. Our Father made many enemies because of his temper," I said.

"You don't know that, you hardly seen him. You were three," she challenged.

I stood up and grabbed her by the shoulder, "On the days of execution, I could hear the screams of men being burned alive by wildfire from my chambers. Father's paranoia put houses in near extinction. There is a spark, and there is the fuel that leads to a rebellion. Do you know what started the Usurpers rebellion?"

Daenerys shook her head.

"Rhaegar took Robert Baratheon's betrothed, her name was Lyanna Stark of Winterfell. The Warden of the North, Lord Rickard Stark was offended by this act, so he and his eldest son went South to King's Landing asking Father to return his daughter. A simple request, one any wise person would have done. Instead, our Father arrested them and executed them on the spot, burning them alive with wildfire. That wasn't enough though, so Father sent a raven to the Vale and ordered Lord Jon Arryn to kill his two wards: Eddard Stark and Robert Baratheon." I told her.

Daenerys's eyes widen, "How do you know this?"

"When we were in Tyrosh, I met a Dornish merchant who was an associate to our host," I said. "I wanted the truth, and he told me. We're not a perfect family, Daenerys. If we are going to return home to Westeros, we can't present ourselves with rage. Why do you think I've been testing you since leaving Vaes Dothrak?"

Daenerys remained quiet.

"You are my heir," I told her. "If anything were to happen me and you decide to go west, you can't present yourself in Fire and Blood. Aegon knew that it wise to start out political before going into battle."

"How do you know all this?" She asked.

"Because I read," I answered. "Start reading the books Ser Jorah gave you. Because where we are going, home will not have open arms. We might have House Martell on our side, but eighteen years might've change that."

I took a deep breath feeling exhausted, hugging her, "I'm sorry for sounding harsh. But it's time to kill the girl and become a woman."

Daenerys wrapped her arms around me and nodded, "I'm sorry."

I kissed the top of her head, "Go rest now. Take advantage of the baths and beds."

She nodded and left my chambers to rest.

I laid on the bed, covering my face and groaned. A lot of teachings for Daenerys so she can understand our enemy's mindset. All the Magisters and host have lied to Viserys saying the people are waiting for our return, with swords and banners at the ready. Saying those ornate words to receive my brother-husbands favor. Maybe during Aegon the Fifth it could be possible, that we were loved by the people. But generations after that, not so much. Aerys the Second might had started off as a fair king, but the mental disease of madness took over turning him into a tyrant. No doubt the Great Houses will compare me and hold me against my father's actions.

However, if what Visenya says is true, something far greater than the crown is coming…we need to be prepared. The dragons will grow, a blessing from the Seven. But dragons will not be enough. We need armies, ships, and weapons. One way to get all this is through marrying the richest man in Essos. Unfortunately, neither Daenerys nor I are in the condition for marriage. I need to focus on what Visenya said in finding the Undying. They hold the answers in what I seek.

.o0o.

The next few days have been nothing but sleep and recovery. Ten healers arrived by sunset and treated the Dothraki, Daenerys, Ser Jorah, and I from sunstroke and other potential ailments from the Red Waste. Once they were done, I took a guilty pleasure of a long-needed bath. Not having a real bath since Pentos. When I thought I had to do it myself, two handmaidens entered stating Master Xaro assigned them to me. I was hesitant when they said Master when the women chuckle stating they were paid. Apparently, Xaro Xhoan Daxos hires the less fortunate, providing jobs, fair wages, and lodgings. I was impressed by this man's generosity.

Anyway, the women helped me with my bath. It was a challenged, not the scrubbing of my skin but my hair. The Battle of the Knots. The handmaidens did as they could in being gentle. Applying oils to loosen the knots, remove the dirt and repair damages. Of course, seeing the damage end, they took a pair of scissors and gave a trim to look healthy. Once they were done, they helped me in my robes and left.

Daenerys was pleased enjoying the treatment. Doreah was as well, although Irri felt uncomfortable. Being treated, when all her life she has been a handmaiden. Now she was a guest. Still, she refused the clothes that have been provided and felt some solitude in mending our travel clothes and boots. I try to tell her there is no need, but she insisted saying she needed the distraction. Irri was still grieving for Rakharo.

In Daenerys room, we settle in after having an excellent breakfast. Today Xaro Xhaon Daxos was hosting an event in his palace. We were all invited and were preparing for the festivities. Once more, our host surprised us with more gifts. As the servants deliver two dresses, one blue and the other purple, each containing intricate gold belts and shoulder links.

Daenerys and Doreah didn't seem interested. They were on the windowsill giving Drogo his meal. I told her during our travels when the dragons were born some Valyrian commands dragon riders used. Placing a cube of beef, Drogon made clicking noises examining it.

"Dracarys," Daenerys murmured.

Drogon squeak, tilting its head comprehending the words.

"Dracarys," Daenerys repeated with a smile.

Drogon took a deep breath, hissing until breathing fire on the meat. It was small, almost like a candle flame yet strong enough to sear the flesh. We smiled, seeing Valyrian magic hasn't died out. That is what Mother called it, Valyrian magic between the dragons and the dragon riders. Spells in old Valyrian language. Drogon finished cooking his food and ate it all.

"He'll be able to feed himself," I said.

Doreah reached out to pet Drogon, but Daenerys warned her, "Let him sleep, Doreah."

"Yes, Khaleesi," Doreah replied, still smiling as she helped Drogon in his cage. The dragon complied, hopping on her hand.

"He loves you," Daenerys noted.

Rhaegal was already asleep, soaking in the son. Meanwhile, Viserion continues to cling to my shoulder. I noticed Irri getting a bit jealous over the attention her Khaleesi was giving to Doreah. Drogon may like Doreah, Rhaegal still seek her attention, since Irri knows where to rub his belly. It was clear Rhaegal was more of a feline than a dragon. The Dothraki handmaiden came over to Daenerys presenting the mended clothes.

"I rewove this part of the top," Irri informed, as Daenerys examined it along with the boot. "And I fixed the heel on this one."

"Thank you, my friend," Daenerys said proudly that made Irri smile.

"Did you see the dress Xaro had made for you?" Doreah asked, lifting the blue dress. "They say he's the wealthiest man in Qarth."

"It is known," Irri agreed.

"And if Qarth is the wealthiest city in Essos –"

"The last time a rich man gave me a dress, he was selling me to Khal Drogo," Daenerys stated, touching the fabric.

"May he ride forever in the night lands," Irri prayed.

We all nodded since Khal Drogo had done so much for us when women in the Dothraki culture were second class citizens. No man laid a hand on us. Forced themselves on us while he was still alive.

"Xaro is our host, but we know nothing about him," I said, then looked at Doreah. "Men like to talk about other men when they're happy."

Doreah chuckled and nodded getting the hint. Xaro Xhoan Daxos couldn't just be an honorable man. I have a feeling there is more than he is lets on. I believe Doreah in her knowledge in the art of conversation can retrieve some information.

"You would look like a real queen and princess in Xaros's—"

"She's not a princess. She's a Khaleesi," Irri snapped. All eyes were on her surprised since she was the quiet one in the group. She sighed, "You should wear it, Khaleesi. You are their guest. It would be rude not to."

Afterward, she left the room. Excusing myself, I went after her to see what was wrong. I found Irri by the steps softly crying. Sitting down next to her, I placed my hand on her shoulder.

"The change in environment is overwhelming," I murmured.

"It is not home," Irri said. "Not the grass sea or Vaes Dothrak."

"Do you wish to return to Vaes Dothrak?" I asked.

"No, I must serve my Khaleesi," she answered. "Doreah…she is not us."

"Doreah comes from an island called Lys," I explained. "They are very open and the customs of pleasing others."

"She's changing Khaleesi," she said. "Make her not Dothraki."

I see it now. Irri was trying to hold onto the past. All that she has known is dead or dying. I had to explain to her that where we are going, will not be the same as the Dothraki culture. Reminding her of Pentos, but the Seven Kingdoms will be different. For someone who has lived in a culture that doesn't adapt to change very well is understandable. Changes were omens. Luckily, Irri understood, and I told her to relax and breathe.

"Is there anything I could mend?" She offered.

"You don't have too," I assure.

"Please…I need a distraction." She insisted.

I nodded, saying she can take a look at my clothes and boots. Irri smiled appreciating it. Viserion squeak, leaning over and licked Irri's tears. That caused her to chuckle, and carefully rubbed his neck which he allowed. Again, rare for Viserion to allow others near him.

.o0o.

The party started in midafternoon, as many Qartheens arrived at the event. Daenerys and I stood together, dressed in the attire Xaro gave us. I wore the purple silk dress, while my hair was put up in a bun, ending with a braid. The Targaryen pinned secured in my hair, my mother's necklace, and the conquest ring. Daenerys, she wore the blue gown, having her hair let down. We were impressed by the gardens, and the guest speaking to us in the common tongue. Although one merchant tried to talk in Dothraki…which he unintendedly insulted.

Our goals were clear to meet as many people to earn their favors. If we can find the right merchant with a ship, we can sail back to Pentos where we can rejoin Magister Illyrio. All afternoon has been poised and smiles. Answering questions about our heritage. Although, when they bring up the incest…we forced a massive smile saying "It's to keep the Valyrian bloodline alive" At least Doreah was succeeding in conversation, wearing a new handmaiden gown talking with other merchants.

We were having a conversation with the Copper King and his wife who was recommending several locations in Qarth to visit. Their names were a tongue twister, but the woman stated her Western name she goes by is Kristina.

"And you must visit the night market," Kristina recommended. "The Qartheen night market is like no night market you've ever seen."

"It sounds wonderful," Daenerys said, with a smile.

"The Meereens think they have a night market. I will take you, princesses, there myself," Kristina offered.

Suddenly we could hear Dothraki language speaking loudly. Looking over Kristina's shoulder, there Ser Jorah had an amusing debate with Kovarro and Malakko over an oriental statue of a peacock. Worse was, Kovarro was tapping it with his dagger. This was not good since I promised Xaro no harm to his property. And the Dothraki can get carried away that leads to an unnecessary duel and a missing limb.

"Please excuse us for a moment," I politely said, as Daenerys and I rushed over to see what is the matter.

"What are they doing?" Daenerys asked.

"Malakko says the statue is too heavy to carry," Ser Jorah answered. "Kovarro says that Malakko is an idiot. They can pry out the gems, the rest is pure gold. Very soft. He can chop off as much as we can carry."

"Or melt it. Very simple," Kovarro said.

"We are his guest," Daenerys reminded. "You can't pry it or chop it or melt it."

"Of course not, Khaleesi. We will wait until we leave," Kovarro assured.

"Not even when we leave," Daenerys scolded.

I looked at Ser Jorah who was amused by this. I couldn't help it either trying not to chuckle or smile, seeing Daenerys scold her men as if talking to children. In the discussion, Ser Jorah glanced at my attire. It was slightly out of my usual attire, trying to be modest.

"Why not?" Kovarro asked.

"Our host saved us from the Red Waste, and you want to steal from him?" Daenerys reminded. "I will hear no more."

Kovarro gave an exaggerated sighed, before he and Malakko headed off. However, it didn't stop the young Ko from grabbing a golden cup from a servant and poured the wine out and left with it. Unable to resist, I chuckled.

"My brother used to say the only thing the Dothraki know how to do was steal things better men have built," Daenerys chuckled, as the three of us started walking.

"It's not the only thing," Ser Jorah said. "They're quite good at killing the better men."

"That is not the kind of leader I want to be," I told him.

"Dragon sisters," someone called out. We turned around seeing a pale bald man with blue lips approach us. "On behalf of the warlocks of Qarth, I welcome you." He pulled out a hand to Daenerys. "A Demonstration?"

My sister obliged accepting his hand, in which he took a green stone and placed it on her palm, "Take this gem. Look at it. Into its depths." Daenerys did so. "So many facets. Look closely enough, and you can see yourself in them."

He then turned for behind the peacock was another warlock who looked precisely like him. Many gasped in surprise. "Often more than once."

"Should you ladies grow tired of Xaros's baubles and trinkets, it would be an honor to host you at the House of the Undying. You're always welcome," the warlock offered.

The House of the Undying, I thought. Is that where Visenya wanted me to go. Can these Warlocks be the people who have what I need to know? The warlock stared at me as if reading my mind and nodded.

"Dragoness of the West, Mother of Dragons," the warlock said, with a bow and left.

He and his…twin?

The guest applauds in the demonstration.

"My apologies," Xaro said, as he came over. "Pyat Pree is one of the Thirteen. It was customary for me to extend him an invitation. Customs die slow deaths in Qarth."

"What is the House of the Undying?" I asked.

"It is where the warlocks go to squint at dusty books and drink shade of the evening. It turns their lips blue and their minds soft – so soft, they actually believe their parlor tricks are magic." Xaro answered, wrapping an arm around me.

We chuckled as he escorted us to meet his friends.

.o0o.

Ser Jorah's POV

The exiled knight watched Xaro Xhoan Daxos wrapped his arm around Alysanne escorting the Dragon Sisters away. He scowled slightly, having a bad feeling. As he heard you shouldn't trust a Qartheen. They only care about themselves and their profit. Let alone where the man's hand was on his queen's waist.

Jorah sighed shaking his head, needing to stop thinking about Alysanne like that. She was a young widow. And though he was pardoned, and received his divorce…he can't stop looking at her the same. He doubted Alysanne would hold an interest in him, he was almost twice her age, a knight with small lands and no fortune.

All he could do was protect Alysanne and Daenerys. Mentor them, so they don't become like their father. So far, Alysanne shows no sign of madness. Daenerys on the other hand, he questions if it were hormones from her pregnancy or these impulsive were something different entirely. The same impulsive behavior as the Mad King. Only time can tell.

He stood where he was watching the two Targaryens talk with the guest. Observing every detail to ensure there is no assassination attempt. The day after arriving in Qarth he sent a letter to Magister Illyrio to know of their whereabouts. Hopefully, Illyrio will send some money and aid to sail them back to Pentos. Until then, they are stuck here in Qarth, could take months before any news arrives. And with Lord Varys little birds everywhere and possible assassins seeking Lordship…it's dangerous.

"You watch over them," a woman's voice noted.

Ser Jorah turned his head seeing a woman wearing an intricate mask of an elongated hexagon. The pattern continues to her dress of different shades of red and blue. A pattern he sees from the people of Asshai.

"Do I know you?" Ser Jorah asked.

"I know you," She answered. "Jorah Mormont of Bear Island."

He tensed, "Who are you?"

"I'm no one," she answered, then looked at the girls. "But they are the Dragon Sisters. They need true protectors now more than ever. They shall come day and night to see the wonder born into the world again. And when they see, they shall lust, for dragons are fire made flesh. And fire is power."

The mysterious woman walked away.

Jorah was confused, wondering who that woman was. She did not seem like Vary's little birds since she was an adult woman and not a child or adolescent. Still cautious, he turned around seeing Alysanne was gone while Daenerys remained in conversation with the guest. His heart rate increased, wondering where the Queen was. He took a deep breath, not to work himself up, knowing the Dothraki are here, and Alysanne knows how to defend herself.

Still, the thought lingers that she was alone with Xaro.

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