Intro: In the Command Center

In the dim glow of the command center, Agent Vesper scanned the digital file projected onto the sleek glass table. Devon Mason Manner's profile popped up with a crisp click, accompanied by a rotating hologram of his figure—short bright blonde crew cut, light brown skin, a muscular build, and a distinctly casual demeanor in his ripped-sleeve jacket and skateboarder's swagger. The hologram shifted to showcase his attire, from the patched California flag to the orange wristwatch, painting the image of someone simultaneously rugged and laid-back.

Renard leaned back in his chair, tapping a pen against the table. "Interesting choice. Looks like someone who doesn't shy away from manual work. Athletic. Capable."

"And predictable," Vesper said, her arms crossed. "He's got the 'do-gooder' archetype written all over him. That can either make him useful or make him a liability if he doesn't know how to think outside the lines."

"His file suggests he's got a strong sense of justice," Renard replied, zooming in on Devon's listed strengths. "Someone like that might take risks for the right cause. That could come in handy."

"It also says he's impulsive when he sees injustice," Vesper countered, reading further. "That might make him easy to manipulate if the wrong person pushes his buttons. But I'll admit, I like the leadership potential here. And the skateboarding? Not just a hobby—balancing and quick reflexes could be an asset."

Renard nodded thoughtfully. "He's versatile, if nothing else. He's used to rules and structure, but he's not entirely rigid. We might be able to mold him into something effective."

"What's his codename?" another agent asked from across the room.

Vesper tilted her head in thought, then smirked. "Let's call him Rook."

"Rook?" Renard raised a brow.

"It fits," Vesper replied, a hint of satisfaction in her tone. "A rook on the chessboard is straightforward—moves with purpose, defends the team, and works its way to promotion if it's smart. Devon's got the makings of someone who could become something more, but he's starting in a simple place. It suits him."

Renard glanced at the file again, then nodded. "Rook it is. Let's see if this pawn can live up to his potential."

With a swipe of her hand, Vesper closed Devon's file, and the table's screen dimmed again. One candidate down. Many more to go.

Agent Vesper leaned over the table as the next file illuminated the room. Buford Orion Stevens III—"Bo" as he preferred to be called—stood tall in his hologram. The 6'4" figure with caramel brown skin and a confident air radiated ambition. His long black dreadlocks, tied neatly into a ponytail, swayed slightly in the rendered image, and his green contact lenses gave him an edge of mystery.

"Now this one has presence," Vesper noted, tilting her head. "The kind that walks into a room and expects people to pay attention."

"Politician's son," Renard said, flipping through the digital profile. "Explains the polish. But he's got baggage. He hates politics and, by extension, his father's influence."

Vesper smirked. "Good. A little rebellion keeps things interesting. He's got the charm and the strategy to hold his own. And this 'brutally honest' thing?" She gestured to the notes on his personality. "That could either win people over or alienate them entirely. High risk, high reward."

Renard scanned further. "Says here he's an athlete. Baseball team captain, fraternity member, current student body president. Competitive streak runs deep with this one."

"And he's got a podcasting hobby," Vesper added, skimming his interests. "Loves facts and evidence. I like that—it means he doesn't operate on fluff. He wants results, and he's not afraid to get his hands dirty."

"He's vocal, though," Renard pointed out. "Could be a problem if he doesn't know when to shut up. Especially in delicate situations."

"That's what training is for," Vesper replied. "We'll teach him to use his words wisely. He might not be the friendliest, but he doesn't need to be—he just needs to deliver."

A younger agent chimed in, "What's his codename?"

Vesper thought for a moment, studying the hologram of Bo, his sharp appearance, and his commanding stance. A slow grin spread across her face. "Let's call him Atlas."

"Atlas?" Renard questioned.

"Fitting, isn't it?" Vesper replied. "He's tall, strong, and used to carrying the weight of his family's expectations—just like the Titan holding up the sky. But unlike Atlas, he's willing to shrug off the burdens he doesn't believe in. That makes him more dangerous—and more useful."

Renard nodded in approval. "Atlas it is."

With a swipe, the file closed, and the room returned to its dim stillness. Another candidate reviewed, another piece of the puzzle in place. Vesper's eyes gleamed with anticipation. "This one's going to make waves."

The next file illuminated the sleek table, casting the hologram of Robin Hawkins—tall and lean with a playful air about him. His rose beige skin, pompadour-styled brown hair, and shark tooth necklace gave him the appearance of someone who didn't take life too seriously. The spinning image captured him mid-laugh, his bright blue eyes practically twinkling with mischief.

Agent Vesper leaned on her hand, watching the hologram with amusement. "Now this one's got charisma. The kind of guy who can talk his way into—or out of—anything."

"Vocal impressionist and comedian," Renard read from the file, raising an eyebrow. "Not exactly the first skill set you'd think of for covert operations, but… his impersonation ability could prove valuable."

"He's an entertainer," Vesper replied, tapping the table to rotate the hologram. "People underestimate performers like him. They think it's all about laughs, but this guy's got range. If he can mimic voices and mannerisms this well, he could walk into a room as one person and leave as another entirely."

Renard scrolled further through Robin's profile. "He's energetic and extroverted, which makes him good for morale. But…" He pointed to the notes on his insecurities. "He's also dealing with a lot of baggage. Feels like people only see the act and not the person. That kind of self-doubt might hold him back."

"That's where we come in," Vesper said confidently. "People like Robin thrive when they're pushed beyond their comfort zones. If we give him the tools, he might surprise us all. And let's not forget—his humor could defuse tense situations."

Renard chuckled. "As long as he doesn't try to mimic me, we should be fine."

"What's his codename?" an agent asked from across the room.

Vesper studied the hologram for a moment, a smirk tugging at her lips. "Let's call him Echo."

"Echo?" Renard echoed the name skeptically.

"Think about it," Vesper said, folding her arms. "He's a man of a thousand voices—someone who can mirror anyone perfectly. But an echo isn't just a reflection; it's a force that resonates, repeating what's said but with its own impact. That's who Robin is. He's more than just the voices—he's the power behind them."

Renard nodded slowly. "I like it. Echo it is."

With a swipe, Vesper closed the file, the hologram fading back into the table. She tapped her fingers thoughtfully. "He's a wildcard, but sometimes that's exactly what you need."

Another agent leaned forward. "You think he'll be an asset?"

Vesper smirked. "I think he'll keep us guessing. And in this line of work, that's half the fun."

The next file came to life on the table, revealing a young man with intense, yellow eyes and slicked-back gray hair. Dante Accello appeared with a sense of urgency, his appearance neat but unassuming. He was shorter than most, standing at 5'2", with a thin build and a face that suggested a constant undercurrent of anxiety. His clothes—a simple gray button-down shirt, untucked and flowing, and black pants—exuded a minimalist style, with the emphasis on blending in.

Vesper read the file aloud with a soft hum of interest. "Dante Accello. Eighteen years old. Hailing from Florence, Italy, and… convinced he's cursed?" She raised an eyebrow. "This one's going to be interesting."

Renard scrolled through the details. "His instincts are remarkable. Fast reflexes, impressive self-defense skills. But his belief in being cursed? That's not something you can just brush off." He paused. "What are the odds that he's just unlucky? That it's all in his head?"

Vesper tapped her finger thoughtfully. "It's rare, but it's possible. People have been known to manifest their own misfortune. If he truly believes this is happening, he might see every situation as dangerous and retreat from others—he's clearly socially isolated."

Renard nodded. "And if he's genuinely pushing people away for their own safety… that could make him a liability in a group dynamic." He leaned forward, scanning the file further. "But the skills he has… they could prove useful. His reflexes, the ability to get out of a tough situation. He just needs to understand how to trust others."

Vesper gave a small grin. "That's where we come in. If we show him how to trust again—maybe he'll stop running from his so-called 'curse.'" She pressed a button, bringing up a new file section. "His codename... we'll need something that reflects both his paranoia and his potential."

Renard looked at her with mild amusement. "I'm all ears."

Vesper took a moment, tapping her chin as she glanced at the profile. "How about… Shadow."

"Shadow?" Renard repeated, intrigued.

"Yes. Shadows are elusive, intangible, often linked to things we can't explain—just like how he believes bad luck follows him. It's also a reminder that sometimes the things that feel like burdens are the things we learn to control." She looked up, meeting Renard's eyes. "He'll need to find out what's in the shadows before he can understand how to step into the light."

Renard nodded in agreement. "Shadow it is."

The file blinked out of existence, and Vesper leaned back, her mind already turning over how they would guide this troubled but talented young man. "He's a wildcard. But we can work with him."

Agent Vesper and Renard looked over the file of Lysander Saigon, the twenty-year-old bartender with a unique backstory that caught their attention. His blend of resilience and creativity stood out among the other candidates.

Renard leaned back in his chair, scanning Lysander's profile. "A bartender with a passion for mixing drinks, but an unfortunate twist in his genetic makeup. He knows his time is limited in terms of experiencing the flavors he so deeply craves." He tilted his head thoughtfully. "A tragic, yet determined spirit. His focus is on creating something lasting before the inevitable hits. That kind of motivation could push him to do extraordinary things."

Vesper nodded, studying the details. "His backstory speaks to a sense of urgency and purpose. His dedication to mixing drinks is more than just a passion—it's a race against time. He's driven by the desire to leave a mark before he loses his ability to fully enjoy his creations. That drive could be invaluable in high-stakes situations."

Renard turned to Vesper, who had already begun to enter potential codename options into her system. "He doesn't fit the typical mold of the others. He's not here just to win for the sake of competition. His need to make a name for himself, to find meaning before time runs out... that could be powerful. But the right codename is key."

Vesper paused, thinking. "He's about to face the loss of two of his senses—something that defines his identity. He needs something that speaks to that transformative experience, that change in how he perceives the world. A codename that suggests both his creativity and his challenges…" She clicked a few keys on the console and then looked up with a firm expression. "How about Chroma?"

Renard's brow raised. "Chroma—the spectrum of colors, the visual aspect of what he experiences, even as he's losing his ability to perceive flavor and scent. It ties in well with his work in mixing drinks, capturing a range of colors and sensations, even if he's losing some of those sensations himself. It's about him mixing his world into something meaningful."

"Exactly," Vesper agreed, a hint of approval in her voice. "Chroma is a reflection of his world—vibrant and full of potential, even as it fades in certain ways. It fits his creativity, his determination, and his struggle."

"Chroma it is then," Renard affirmed.

With the codename selected, the agents focused on Lysander's physical appearance, noting the qualities that made him stand out. Standing at an average height of 5'10", Lysander's build was lean but muscular, a product of his active lifestyle as a bartender. His skin was a warm olive tone, which highlighted his heritage. His dark brown hair was kept short, neatly styled with a slight wave, and his eyes, a deep amber, had a quiet intensity to them—a reflection of someone who had come to terms with their fate and embraced the future with open arms.

His usual attire was casual but refined, often seen in fitted t-shirts, well-worn jeans, and a leather jacket—his bartender uniform consisting of an apron over a simple shirt. He exuded an air of effortless cool, but there was a hint of underlying sadness in his gaze, as if he carried a secret weight with him wherever he went. Despite this, his posture was confident, and his demeanor was approachable. His presence was magnetic, drawing people in without him even trying.

Agent Vesper made a few more notes before setting the file aside. "Lysander's determination to leave behind a legacy through his drinks, his connection to his family's conditions, and the way he channels his frustrations and hopes into his work make him an interesting addition to the team. He may not have everything, but he's never going to stop trying to make something meaningful out of his circumstances."

Renard nodded. "There's something about someone who works with limited resources and still pushes themselves to create. He's got potential."

Mary Grace Salac's profile then came to life on the screen, filling the space with a sense of elegance and mystery that was clearly part of her persona. Her figure stood tall at 5'8", exuding an air of mystery and authority. Her lightly tanned skin contrasted beautifully against the green ribbon that held her wavy brown hair up half-up, half-down, a delicate touch that betrayed a hint of the softness beneath her diva-like attitude. Her brown eyes sparkled with defiance and wit, traits that anyone close to her would quickly learn to appreciate—or fear.

Vesper flicked through the details of Mary Grace's background, her expression neutral, but her mind racing. "A female now? Hmm... Born in Beijing, but her name is lost to her. Abducted by skilled kidnappers… taken to Andorra. A tragic backstory of trauma and survival." Vesper's tone softened as she continued reading. "She's resilient, though. She fought her way out of that nightmare, and now she's a force to be reckoned with. But there's a darkness beneath that confident exterior. Guilt over abandoning someone, a past she refuses to fully share."

Renard leaned over the table, his eyes scanning the rest of the details. "Her transformation from a quiet, observant girl into a sassy, sarcastic diva is... fascinating. It's clear she used this attitude as a shield, a way to distance herself from the pain." He paused, glancing up. "But it also makes her incredibly protective. And possibly more than a little unpredictable."

"Exactly," Vesper agreed, her finger hovering over the file. "She's fiercely independent, yet haunted by her past. That guilt... it's the driving force behind her actions. She swears she'll rescue Mary Rose, but she's carrying all of that weight alone." She narrowed her eyes thoughtfully. "And that diva persona? It's her armor, but also a trap. People might underestimate her because of it."

Renard rubbed his chin. "She's got a fire to her, no doubt. But we'll need to see how she operates under pressure. Is she still driven by that desire to protect herself at all costs, or will her vulnerabilities surface when she's pushed?" He studied the screen. "A world-class fashion designer. She's got aspirations that go beyond the superficial. If she can channel her drive into something more focused, she could become a powerful ally."

Vesper considered that. "We can't let her isolation turn into a liability. She's learned to keep people at arm's length, but if we can show her that some things are worth fighting for—maybe we can help her balance that edge."

She tapped a button, pulling up the section to decide on her codename. "Given her strength and grace, yet her complex, hidden depths, how about… Ivory?"

Renard raised an eyebrow. "Ivory? It's elegant, like her fashion sense. But it also suggests something delicate—fragile, even—yet resilient."

Vesper smiled. "Exactly. The color ivory embodies her outward elegance and the hidden fragility of someone who's been through so much. It's perfect for her."

"I like it," Renard nodded. "Ivory it is."

The profile flickered off, leaving a lingering sense of intrigue. Vesper leaned back in her chair, her thoughts already turning to the next steps in their plans. "She's a fighter. But she needs to let others in, to heal from the past and trust again."

Martha Katz's profile was pulled up on the screen with a sense of quiet deliberation. Vesper scanned the details, analyzing the subtle complexities that made Martha an intriguing subject.

At first glance, Martha may not stand out. Her physical presence at 4'11" was understated, and her choice of clothing—navy blue hoodie, pale blue jeans, and black wireframe glasses—only contributed to her unassuming demeanor. Her hazel eyes were sharp, but the way she carried herself didn't demand attention. But beneath this low-key exterior, Martha was a force to be reckoned with.

Renard leaned in closer, reading through her profile with a sharp gaze. "She's one of those who's easy to overlook, yet has a quiet power beneath the surface. The kind who stays in the shadows, watching, learning." He paused. "Her strategic mind—it's clear. A little manipulative, but not in an obvious way. She collects secrets, and she knows how to use them."

Vesper raised an eyebrow. "She didn't start out this way. She was bullied, ignored, until one day she discovered the power of knowledge—secrets. That shift in perspective is fascinating."

Renard nodded thoughtfully. "She became a master at stealth and observation. It's not that she lacks empathy, but she's learned to wield knowledge as a weapon. She doesn't engage unless she has a reason to, but when she does, she's got an edge."

Vesper's fingers hovered over the keyboard as she pulled up her options for codenames. After a pause, she suggested, "How about Opal?"

Renard looked intrigued. "Opal? It's a stone that catches light from different angles. Martha is much the same—quiet and subtle on the surface, but underneath, she's multifaceted. Plus, opals are a symbol of transformation. She's transformed herself from being the bullied to someone who controls her own narrative."

Vesper smiled. "Exactly. Opal reflects her ability to adapt and thrive in the background. It's a perfect fit for her."

"Agreed," Renard replied. "Opal it is."

With the codename decided, they turned their attention back to Martha's background. Vesper noted how Martha's subtle yet powerful ability to leverage information was a skill that could prove invaluable, especially when combined with her intelligence and strategic thinking. There was more to Martha than met the eye, and she had learned to use her talents to protect herself—and now, possibly, to succeed in the competition ahead.

"Her motivation to sign up—more about pleasing her mom than her own desire—is telling," Vesper mused. "But I have a feeling she'll adapt quickly. She's not the type to back down once she realizes the stakes."

Renard smiled knowingly. "Let's see how she handles it. Opal is not someone who will settle for being overlooked anymore."

Esther Toussaint, the 19-year-old Assistant Manager from Newark, NJ, was another candidate who caught the eye of Agent Vesper and Renard. Her cold, calculated nature, paired with her desire to rise above and be seen as an icon, fit the profile they were seeking. The agents studied her file carefully, considering how her skills and personality would play into their selection process.

"Star," Renard mused, eyeing the notes. "A woman with fire behind that cold exterior. She's calculated, driven by her ego and a need for recognition. It's almost like she thrives on being underestimated, and then making sure to prove herself time and time again."

Vesper leaned over the file, studying her appearance. "She's tall, confident, and her style says 'I'm in control'—everything from the beige blazer and turban to the perfectly pressed high-waisted skirt. She's one of those people who gets noticed even if she doesn't seem to care whether or not she does." She paused, tapping her pen thoughtfully. "Her obsession with punctuality, cleanliness, and perfection speaks to someone who won't back down from any challenge. She's not afraid to manipulate her surroundings to get what she wants. That kind of resourcefulness will make her an asset."

"Her fear of being exposed for her sexuality adds a layer of complexity. She's hiding parts of herself, yet she's built this ironclad exterior to make sure no one knows the real Esther Toussaint. She's the kind of person who holds her cards close to her chest and expects everyone else to do the same. That could make her difficult to approach, but the right kind of push might just unlock some of her potential."

Vesper nodded. "Her ability to manipulate and strategize, as well as her penchant for detail and punctuality, makes her a strong candidate for a role that requires precision and careful planning."

The two agents turned their attention to her physical description, noting how her appearance matched her personality. Esther stood at 5'9", which was impressive for a woman, giving her an imposing presence. Her skin tone was deep cocoa brown, with the same richness and vibrancy seen in her expressions. Her midnight black hair was a striking contrast to her skin, styled in box braids that cascaded down to her collarbone. The half-ponytail she wore showed her penchant for order, and the subtle freckles on her face added a touch of relatability to her otherwise poised demeanor.

Her outfit—beige, pristine, and formal—spoke to her need for control and structure. From the button-up vest blazer to the pleated skirt and high heeled wedges, everything about her style screamed precision. The silver wristwatch on her arm completed the look, giving off an air of wealth, sophistication, and a calculated image. But it was the turban headband she wore—a nod to her cultural heritage—that hinted at the woman behind the polished facade.

Renard glanced over at Vesper, who was already typing away on her console. "What do you think about the codename?"

Vesper tapped the screen before responding. "We need something that aligns with her need to be seen as 'above it all,' yet with an underlying sense of complexity. Something that acknowledges her layered personality."

Renard raised an eyebrow. "What about Vanguard? It's a nod to her ambition—always pushing forward, leading, and standing at the front. She positions herself to be the leader, even if she has to manipulate her way there."

Vesper smiled, clearly approving. "Vanguard it is. She's someone who thrives on being the first, the best, and the one everyone looks to. It's a fitting codename for someone like Esther."

The agents made their final notes. Esther Toussaint, codename Vanguard, would bring intelligence, precision, and a strong sense of independence to the table. However, her complex personality would need to be carefully navigated—she was not one to trust easily. Her involvement in the mission could prove to be a powerful asset, provided the team was able to manage her ego and uncover the hidden layers beneath her cool exterior.

Ayame Haruka, or Iris as she was affectionately known by those who were close to her, was a vivacious and passionate young gardener from Japan. Her file was a unique one—at first glance, she appeared to be a simple, cheerful individual with a deep love for plants and nature. Standing at 5'6", with a slender but athletic build, Ayame's demeanor was one of warmth and openness. Her long black hair, often tied in a loose ponytail, framed her gentle features, and her eyes—sharp, dark brown, yet filled with a quiet intensity—spoke volumes about the woman behind the smile.

Dressed in simple but functional clothing, often adorned with floral patterns that matched her love for nature, Ayame gave the impression of someone who was content with a peaceful, serene life. She spent most of her days tending to her garden, nurturing plants with the same care and attention she gave to everything in life. But there was more to her than met the eye. Beneath her gentle exterior was the heart of a warrior. Her backstory revealed that Ayame, in secret, had been trained in the ancient ways of the samurai. Her family, historically known for their martial prowess, had kept their warrior lineage hidden from the public eye, and Ayame had spent years perfecting her swordsmanship in the shadows. It was a legacy she kept hidden, only revealing it to those she trusted completely.

Vesper scrolled through her file, intrigued by the layers of Ayame's personality. "She's not what she seems," she mused aloud, glancing at Renard. "On the surface, she's the perfect picture of calm and harmony. A gardener, someone who cultivates life and beauty. But there's a deeper strength to her. She's trained as a samurai—trained to fight, to protect, to follow a code of honor. She might come across as vivacious and carefree, but underneath all that, there's a sense of discipline and focus. She could be an unexpected force on the team."

Renard nodded, his fingers tapping thoughtfully on the desk. "I like her. Her ability to adapt to different situations and her calm nature make her an ideal candidate for a covert role. Imagine someone who can blend into the background, all while carrying the skills of a highly trained fighter. She's like a flower with thorns, quietly dangerous. That's the kind of person you want in a high-stakes mission."

He leaned forward, reading more details from Ayame's backstory. "She was raised with the understanding that balance was key—balance between her nurturing role in the garden and the disciplined training of her ancestors. It's clear that she's spent years honing both her mind and body. Her samurai heritage isn't just a skill—it's a part of who she is. And yet, she keeps it hidden. That tells me she values discretion. She's probably cautious, selective about who she reveals her true self to."

Vesper looked up from the file, a small smile tugging at her lips. "She seems like the type who could offer valuable insight into strategy. Her background as a gardener means she knows patience, precision, and timing—skills that are critical in high-stress environments. Plus, her calm demeanor would make her someone who can think clearly under pressure."

Renard agreed, tapping his chin. "I see her as the kind of person who operates in the shadows. People won't expect a samurai to be a gardener. It's the perfect disguise, and she could use it to her advantage. She could be the eyes and ears of the team, moving unnoticed and striking when the time is right."

Vesper nodded again, already making mental notes. "I think Sakura would be a fitting codename for her. Sakura is symbolic of the transient beauty of life, but it also represents strength. The sakura blossom endures through harsh seasons, blooming with grace and resilience. It mirrors Ayame's duality perfectly—her peaceful nature and her deadly precision when needed."

"Exactly," Renard said with a satisfied grin. "Her name speaks to both her role on the team and her personal journey. Sakura embodies both beauty and strength, and I think that's exactly what she will bring to the table."

They both agreed that Ayame Haruka, codename Sakura, was a force to be reckoned with. A vivacious spirit with a hidden warrior's heart, she would be an invaluable asset to the team, able to balance grace and strength, and always move with purpose and precision. Despite her seemingly gentle nature, Ayame's quiet determination and combat prowess would give her the ability to navigate through dangerous situations with ease. Her secret identity as a samurai would serve her well, and her knowledge of patience, balance, and timing would make her an exceptional strategist.

A/N: And now my fellow readers, we have our first half of the cast! This cast update was supposed to come out earlier, but I had trouble deciding how to reveal the cast so when we reach episode 1, we won't see huge chunks of description. And then I thought this would be the perfect way to do so. I would like to thank everyone who had submitted so far, though I am still accepting submissions until the 20th (at least 6 days from now) so if you have not seen your character in this, feel free to apply! Everyone else not in the list yet are still in for consideration, so don't fret!

I have hand-picked these codenames and I struggled with some of them, though I think they all sound cool.

As you can see, the cast has been extended to 18, but I do plan to extend it up to 20. I have the outline for the story and the season will run for at least 25 episodes. It will be weird seeing a lot of reward challenges so I decided to expand it but make it still manageable.

Also because I am stupid and forgot to add the stereotype... please do so, haha.

See you in the next cast update!

Cast:

1. Devon Mason Manner (Tech-Star 2.0) - Agent Rook
2. Buford Orion Stevens III (Mr. Ruff) - Agent Atlas
3. Robin Hawkins (ZNBT) - Agent Echo
4. Dante Accello (Tempokeep) - Agent Shadow
5. Lysander Saigon (Nix and Match) - Agent Chroma
6. Mary Grace Salac (minjiuu) - Agent Ivory
7. Martha Katz (Spyrorocks389) - Agent Opal
8. Esther Toussaint (Jade's One of a Kind) - Agent Vanguard
9. Ayame Haruka (Day by Dawn) - Agent Sakura
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18.