Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Pacing
- Fast
- Mood
- Action-packed, Suspenseful, Romantic, Intense
- Read it if
- You enjoy urban fantasy with a blend of supernatural action, teenage angst, and a developing romance, following a powerful protagonist with a complex destiny.
- Skip it if
- You prefer standalone novels, dislike extensive world-building that requires prior series knowledge, or are not a fan of young adult romantic fantasy tropes.
Infamous Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
The Nightmare Begins
Nick Gautier has a recurring nightmare where he destroys the world. This vision grows stronger when his girlfriend, Kody, shares a prophecy from her grandmother saying Nick is destined to end the world. Meanwhile, the ancient god Apollo, still angry about being trapped in a human body by Nick, returns to New Orleans. He is determined to regain his godhood and get revenge. Nick's life, already complicated by his demon heritage and the constant threat from his father, Thorn, becomes even more uncertain as he deals with high school, his growing powers, and the threats that want to control or destroy him.
A New Threat: The Malachai
While trying to live a normal life, Nick and his friends discover a new, dangerous being called the Malachai. This being has great power and seems to target people with supernatural abilities, including Nick. The Malachai's methods are brutal, and its reasons are unclear, adding another layer of difficulty to Nick's already risky life. Nick realizes that this new enemy is different from anything he has faced before. He must rely more on his developing powers and the help of his allies, even as he questions whom he can truly trust in this growing conflict.
Training with Caleb
Recognizing the increasing threats, Nick trains more intensely with Caleb Malphas, a powerful demon and mentor. Caleb pushes Nick to master his various abilities, including his demon powers, dreamwalking, and combat skills. He stresses the importance of control and discipline. During these sessions, Nick learns more about the delicate balance between good and evil, and the possible results of his own power. He also struggles with the dark urges that come with his demon heritage, constantly fighting to stay human while accepting the strength he needs to survive.
Kody's Dilemma and the Prophecy
Kody is torn between her love for Nick and her family's ancient prophecy that says he will end the world. Her grandmother, a powerful seer, continues to warn her about Nick's dark destiny, straining their relationship. Kody fears that Nick might become the monster her family predicts, even as she sees him fight the darkness within himself. This internal conflict creates tension between them, as Kody tries to protect Nick while also fearing the possible destruction he could cause.
Apollo's Schemes and the God-Killer
Apollo, still in human form and filled with hatred for Nick, arranges events to regain his godhood and destroy Nick. He searches for ancient artifacts and allies, including the powerful God-Killer, a weapon that can harm gods. Apollo's plan involves using Nick's weaknesses and turning his allies against him. He believes that by eliminating Nick, he can not only reclaim his place among the gods but also prevent the prophecy of the world-ender from happening, all while serving his own distorted sense of justice and revenge.
The Attack on the Academy
The forces against Nick launch a coordinated attack on the New Orleans Academy, his school. Nick, along with his friends and allies, must defend the academy from many supernatural creatures and dark beings. This battle tests their training, loyalty, and courage. During the intense fighting, Nick must unleash more of his power than ever before, showing how strong he has become, but also hinting at the dangerous potential he holds. The attack reminds them of the constant danger they face.
The Truth About the Malachai
Through his investigations and fights, Nick discovers the Malachai's true identity. It is revealed that the Malachai is not one being but a powerful, ancient force that aims to maintain balance in the universe, even if it means destroying those who disrupt it. The Malachai believes Nick's potential to end the world makes him a primary target for elimination. This discovery adds a layer of moral complexity to Nick's fight, as he realizes he is not just fighting a villain, but a force that believes it is acting for the greater good.
Thorn's Intervention
Thorn, Nick's demon father and a powerful being, appears unexpectedly. While his reasons are always unclear, Thorn gets involved in the growing conflict, not necessarily to help Nick, but to serve his own complex agenda. His presence complicates matters further, as Nick is never sure if Thorn is an ally or another enemy waiting for the right moment to strike. Thorn's actions suggest a deeper, older conflict at play, and his interactions with Nick are full of tension and a strange, grudging respect.
The Confrontation with Apollo
Nick finally confronts Apollo in a desperate and climactic battle. Apollo, wielding the God-Killer and empowered by dark magic, is determined to erase Nick from existence. Nick must use every skill and power he has learned, along with the help of his friends, to withstand Apollo's attack. The fight is not just for Nick's life, but for the fate of the world, as Apollo's victory could lead to widespread chaos and destruction. Nick's ability to control his demonic side during this intense struggle is vital to his survival.
The Choice and the Aftermath
After the battle with Apollo and the Malachai, Nick must make a choice about his destiny and the nature of his powers. This decision has widespread effects, not only for himself but for everyone around him and possibly the entire world. He understands that while he has avoided immediate disaster, the prophecy of him being the world-ender still hangs over him. Nick accepts his role, not as a destroyer, but as a guardian, ready to face whatever future awaits him, even if it means making difficult sacrifices.
Infamous Characters
Nick Gautier
Protagonist
A demon-human hybrid destined to either save or destroy the world.
Nick is a sarcastic, often reluctant hero grappling with an immense and dangerous destiny. He possesses a complex mix of human and demon traits, constantly battling the darker impulses of his heritage while striving to protect his friends and loved ones. His core drive is to live a normal life and defy the prophecy that labels him as the world-ender. He is fiercely loyal but often struggles with trust, especially given the betrayals he has experienced. His powers are constantly evolving, making him a formidable, if sometimes unpredictable, force.
Relationships: Kody (Girlfriend, complex due to prophecy); Caleb Malphas (Mentor, surrogate father figure); Thorn (Biological father, complex and antagonistic); Apollo (Arch-enemy, vengeful god); Simi (Friend, demon ally); Acheron Parthenopaeus (Mentor, protector)
Kody
Supporting
Nick's girlfriend, a seer from a family with a dark prophecy about him.
Kody is Nick's human girlfriend, a strong-willed and empathetic young woman with a unique connection to the supernatural world through her grandmother's prophecies. She deeply loves Nick but is constantly torn by the visions of his destructive future. Her inner conflict drives much of her actions, as she tries to reconcile her feelings with the warnings from her family. She acts as a moral compass for Nick, reminding him of his humanity, but also struggles with her own fear and doubt.
Relationships: Nick Gautier (Boyfriend, strained by prophecy); Kody's Grandmother (Family, source of prophecies)
Caleb Malphas
Supporting
A powerful demon and Nick's primary mentor.
Caleb is a formidable demon with a dry wit and a deep sense of loyalty to Nick. He acts as Nick's primary trainer and a surrogate father figure, teaching him to control his vast and dangerous powers. Despite his demonic nature, Caleb often exhibits a surprising amount of wisdom and compassion, guiding Nick through his struggles with identity and destiny. He is pragmatic and strategic, always looking for ways to prepare Nick for the inevitable battles ahead, and holds a complex past that hints at deeper motivations.
Relationships: Nick Gautier (Mentor, protector, surrogate father); Simi (Friend, fellow demon)
Apollo
Antagonist
A vengeful god seeking to regain his power and destroy Nick.
Apollo is an ancient Greek god, currently trapped in a mortal body, who harbors an intense hatred for Nick Gautier. His primary motivation is revenge for his imprisonment and the humiliation he suffered at Nick's hands. He is arrogant, manipulative, and utterly ruthless, using any means necessary to achieve his goals, including dark magic and ancient artifacts like the God-Killer. Apollo believes he is the rightful arbiter of justice and sees Nick as a dangerous anomaly that must be eliminated to restore cosmic order, or at least, his own power.
Relationships: Nick Gautier (Arch-nemesis); God-Killer (Weapon, tool for revenge)
Thorn
Antagonist/Supporting
Nick's powerful and enigmatic demon father.
Thorn is Nick's biological father, a powerful and ancient demon with a complex, often antagonistic relationship with his son. His motives are rarely clear, often appearing to work against Nick, only to subtly aid him in unexpected ways. Thorn is a master manipulator, playing a long game that hints at a larger, cosmic conflict. He embodies the darker aspects of Nick's heritage and constantly challenges Nick to embrace his demonic power, believing it to be his true destiny. His presence is a constant reminder of the darkness Nick fights against.
Relationships: Nick Gautier (Father-son, highly antagonistic and complex); Medea (Former lover, Nick's mother)
Simi
Supporting
A cheerful, powerful Charonte demon and Nick's loyal friend.
Simi is a Charonte demon, a powerful being who appears as a perpetually cheerful and childlike figure. Despite her innocent demeanor, she possesses immense power and a deep loyalty to Nick. She often provides comic relief but is fiercely protective of her friends, especially Nick and Acheron. Simi's unique perspective and abilities, such as her love for BBQ and her ability to travel between realms, make her a valuable, if sometimes eccentric, ally. She represents a lighter, more innocent side of the supernatural world.
Relationships: Nick Gautier (Close friend, protector); Acheron Parthenopaeus (Master, friend); Caleb Malphas (Friend, fellow demon)
The Malachai
Antagonist
An ancient, enigmatic force seeking cosmic balance.
The Malachai is not a single character but an ancient, powerful, and mysterious entity or force. It operates with a singular purpose: to maintain cosmic balance, even if it means eliminating individuals or groups deemed a threat to that balance. Its methods are brutal and unforgiving, and it views Nick as a potential world-ender who must be neutralized. The Malachai's actions are driven by an ancient, impersonal logic, making it a formidable and morally ambiguous adversary.
Relationships: Nick Gautier (Target, perceived threat to balance)
Acheron Parthenopaeus
Supporting
A powerful Dark-Hunter leader and Nick's ultimate protector.
Acheron, often referred to as Ash, is an ancient and immensely powerful being, the leader of the Dark-Hunters, and Nick's ultimate protector. He carries a heavy burden of past tragedies and possesses vast knowledge of the supernatural world. Ash acts as a mentor and a father figure to Nick, guiding him through his struggles and offering protection, even when Nick is resistant. His quiet strength and profound wisdom are invaluable to Nick, though he often keeps secrets for Nick's own good, adding to the mystery surrounding his character.
Relationships: Nick Gautier (Protector, mentor, father figure); Simi (Master, friend)
Infamous Themes
Destiny vs. Free Will
This theme explores whether Nick is destined to become the world-ender or if he can choose his own path. Kody's prophecies and Apollo's constant pursuit remind Nick of his supposed destiny. However, Nick's defiance and his strong commitment to protecting those he loves show his belief in free will. His training with Caleb also emphasizes that he controls his powers and, by extension, his actions. The internal struggle Nick faces, especially when his demonic side tries to take over, is a constant battle between what he is told he will become and who he chooses to be, as seen in his ultimate decision to use his power for good rather than destruction.
“It’s not who you are that matters, Nick. It’s who you choose to be.”
The Nature of Power
The book looks at the complexities of power – its appeal, its corrupting influence, and the responsibility that comes with it. Nick has immense power, both human and demonic, and he constantly struggles to control it. Apollo's story is a warning about unchecked power leading to arrogance and destruction. The Malachai, as an ancient force, represents power used for cosmic balance, even if its methods are brutal. Nick's journey is about learning to master his abilities without giving in to their darker aspects, understanding that true strength is in control and purpose, not just raw force. This is clear in the final battle where he consciously chooses how to use his abilities.
“Power is a double-edged sword, Nick. It can save or it can destroy. The choice is always yours.”
Identity and Belonging
Nick's struggle with his dual heritage – human and demon – is at the heart of his identity crisis. He feels like an outcast, constantly fighting the expectations and fears linked to his demon lineage, especially from figures like Thorn. He longs for a normal life and acceptance, finding comfort in his friendships and his relationship with Kody. However, the supernatural world constantly pulls him back, forcing him to confront who he truly is and where he belongs. His journey is about bringing these different parts of himself together, finding a place where both his human and demon sides can exist, and ultimately defining his own identity.
“I’m not just a demon. I’m not just human. I’m me. And that’s all I can be.”
Love and Sacrifice
The theme of love and sacrifice is key to Nick's motivations and the challenges he faces. His love for Kody, his friends, and his adopted family drives him to fight against his destiny and the forces threatening them. Kody's internal struggle between her love for Nick and the terrifying prophecy about him shows the sacrifices love often demands. Characters like Caleb and Acheron also make sacrifices to protect Nick, guiding him and enduring danger for him. Ultimately, Nick's willingness to put himself in harm's way for those he cares about, even risking his own soul, highlights the deep impact of love as a driving force.
“Some things are worth fighting for, Nick. Even when the odds are stacked against you.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Prophecy of the World-Ender
A premonition foretelling Nick's role in global destruction.
This central prophecy, revealed through Kody's grandmother, acts as the primary driver of conflict and character motivation. It creates internal conflict for Nick and Kody, and external conflict as enemies like Apollo and the Malachai seek to either prevent or hasten its fulfillment. The prophecy creates suspense and raises questions about destiny versus free will, constantly challenging Nick to defy his predicted fate. It serves as a constant reminder of the stakes involved in Nick's journey.
The God-Killer
A legendary weapon capable of harming divine beings.
The God-Killer is a powerful ancient artifact that Apollo seeks to use against Nick. It functions as a macguffin, driving Apollo's actions and providing a tangible threat that Nick must overcome. Its existence elevates the stakes, as it represents a weapon capable of altering the balance of power in the supernatural world. The God-Killer also highlights the desperation and extreme measures Apollo is willing to take to achieve his revenge against Nick.
Dreamwalking/Visions
Nick's ability to enter and manipulate dreams and experience premonitions.
Nick's dreamwalking abilities serve multiple purposes. They allow him to receive warnings, experience premonitions, and sometimes communicate with others. His recurring nightmare of destroying the world is a specific vision that reinforces the prophecy and fuels his internal struggle. This device adds a layer of psychological depth, showing Nick's subconscious fears and the constant mental battle he endures, while also providing crucial plot information and foreshadowing future events.
The Malachai as Cosmic Balance
An entity representing a force of universal equilibrium.
The Malachai functions as a personification of cosmic balance, acting as an antagonist driven by an impersonal, overarching purpose rather than personal malice. This device introduces a higher-stakes conflict beyond individual vendettas, forcing Nick to confront a force that believes its actions are just. It challenges the conventional hero/villain dynamic and adds moral ambiguity, as the Malachai's goal, though destructive to Nick, is theoretically for the greater good of the universe.
Infamous Quotes
“There are some wounds time can't heal. They're etched into the soul, and they stay there, a testament to what you've survived.”
“Every monster was once a human being who was hurt. Remember that before you judge.”
“Sometimes the greatest strength is not in fighting, but in enduring.”
“Love isn't about finding someone perfect. It's about finding someone who makes you feel perfect, even when you're not.”
“The greatest battles are often fought within ourselves.”
“You can't outrun your past, but you can choose how it defines you.”
“Hope is a dangerous thing, but despair is a killer.”
“True power isn't about what you can destroy, but what you can protect.”
“Sometimes the only way to save someone is to let them go.”
“Fear can make you do terrible things, but courage can make you do even more.”
“The world isn't black and white. It's a million shades of gray, and sometimes the darkest grays are where you find the most light.”
“Never underestimate the quiet ones. They often carry the heaviest burdens and possess the greatest strength.”
“Family isn't always blood. It's the people who stand by you when no one else will.”
“To truly live, you must be willing to risk everything.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is one of the primary mandates for Nick Gautier, unlike most teenagers?
- To become a professional athlete.
- To stay alive while others try to kill him.
- To learn how to cook gourmet meals.
- To master ancient languages.
Show answer
B. To stay alive while others try to kill him. The book description explicitly states that Nick's first mandate is to stay alive while everyone, even his own father, tries to kill him.
Question 2
Besides annihilating zombies and raising the dead, what other skills has Nick learned?
- Astronomy and advanced mathematics.
- Divination and clairvoyance.
- Woodworking and pottery.
- Public speaking and debate.
Show answer
B. Divination and clairvoyance. The text mentions Nick has 'learned to annihilate zombies and raise the dead, divination and clairvoyance'.
Question 3
What common teenage activities does Nick find surprisingly difficult, despite his supernatural abilities?
- Learning to cook and doing laundry.
- Learning to drive and keep a girlfriend.
- Studying for exams and completing homework.
- Playing video games and using social media.
Show answer
B. Learning to drive and keep a girlfriend. The description asks, 'so why is learning to drive and keep a girlfriend so dang hard?' indicating these are his struggles.
Question 4
What crucial skill is highlighted as Nick's next lesson, making all others pale in comparison?
- Mastering the art of diplomacy.
- Achieving perfect academic scores.
- Survival.
- Becoming a leader of the Dark-Hunters.
Show answer
C. Survival. The text states, 'But that isn’t the primary skill he has to master. Survival is.'
Question 5
What two extreme destinies does Nick stand on the brink of becoming?
- A renowned scholar or an infamous criminal.
- The greatest hero mankind has ever known or the one who ends the world.
- A powerful Dark-Hunter or a benevolent god.
- A successful businessman or a reclusive hermit.
Show answer
B. The greatest hero mankind has ever known or the one who ends the world. The description clearly states, 'He is on the brink of becoming either the greatest hero mankind has ever known. Or he’ll be the one who ends the world.'
Question 6
Who, surprisingly, is among those trying to kill Nick?
- His teachers.
- His own father.
- His girlfriend.
- The Dark-Hunters.
Show answer
B. His own father. The synopsis explicitly mentions, 'everyone, even his own father, tries to kill him.'
Question 7
What must Nick do to fight against new and old enemies gathering forces?
- Seek refuge in a hidden monastery.
- Negotiate a peace treaty with them.
- Call on every part of himself.
- Rely solely on the Dark-Hunters.
Show answer
C. Call on every part of himself. The text states, 'he will have to call on every part of himself to fight or he’ll lose everyone he cares about.'
Question 8
What is the ultimate consequence Nick faces if he fails to fight effectively against his enemies?
- He will be expelled from school.
- He will lose everyone he cares about, including himself.
- He will be stripped of his supernatural powers.
- He will be forced to join his father's side.
Show answer
B. He will lose everyone he cares about, including himself. The description warns, 'he will have to call on every part of himself to fight or he’ll lose everyone he cares about. Even himself.'
Question 9
How is Nick's understanding of his own destiny described?
- He fully comprehends every aspect of it.
- He has no understanding of it whatsoever.
- He doesn't fully understand it.
- He is actively trying to avoid it.
Show answer
C. He doesn't fully understand it. The text states he is 'a boy with a destiny not even he fully understands.'
Question 10
What is the overarching conflict presented in the synopsis regarding Nick's future?
- Whether he will choose a career in magic or a mundane life.
- The struggle between becoming a savior or a destroyer of the world.
- His battle to gain acceptance from his peers.
- The challenge of balancing his studies with his supernatural training.
Show answer
B. The struggle between becoming a savior or a destroyer of the world. The central theme is his choice to become 'either the greatest hero mankind has ever known. Or he’ll be the one who ends the world.'
Infamous FAQ
What is the central conflict Nick Gautier faces in 'Infamous'?
Nick Gautier's central conflict revolves around his destiny to either become humanity's greatest hero or its destroyer. This internal struggle is intensified by external threats from both new and old enemies, including his own father, who are actively trying to kill him or manipulate his fate.
What supernatural abilities has Nick already developed by the beginning of 'Infamous'?
By the start of 'Infamous,' Nick has already mastered significant supernatural abilities, including the capacity to annihilate zombies and raise the dead. He also possesses skills in divination and clairvoyance, which aid him in navigating the dangerous world he inhabits.
What mundane teenage challenges does Nick still struggle with despite his powers?
Despite his impressive supernatural powers, Nick still grapples with very human, mundane teenage challenges. He finds learning to drive and maintaining a stable relationship with a girlfriend to be surprisingly difficult, highlighting the contrast between his extraordinary destiny and his ordinary adolescent life.
Who are some of the key antagonists, including family members, Nick must contend with?
Nick must contend with a range of antagonists, prominently including his own father, who is actively trying to kill him. This paternal threat complicates his survival, alongside other 'new and old' enemies who are gathering forces against him, making his fight for survival a deeply personal one.
What is the ultimate consequence Nick fears if he fails to master survival?
If Nick fails to master the art of survival, he fears losing everyone he cares about, including himself. This ultimate consequence underscores the high stakes of his journey, where his personal identity and the well-being of his loved ones are inextricably linked to his success.
How does the narrative of 'Infamous' connect to Nick's past adventures with the Dark-Hunters?
The narrative of 'Infamous' directly continues Nick's saga, building upon his previous experiences and development within the Dark-Hunters universe. His learned abilities, like annihilating zombies, are direct results of his prior adventures, setting the stage for his continued evolution.
What specific 'destiny' is hinted at for Nick, and how does it relate to previous series lore?
Nick's destiny as either mankind's greatest hero or its destroyer is a direct reference to the overarching prophecy surrounding his character in the Dark-Hunter universe. This duality has been foreshadowed in earlier books, hinting at his unique heritage and the immense power he wields as the son of a powerful entity.
Are there any implied alliances or betrayals from previous books that might resurface in 'Infamous'?
The phrase 'enemies new and old gathering forces' strongly implies that past alliances and betrayals will resurface. Nick's complex relationships with various supernatural factions and individuals from previous volumes suggest that former allies could become enemies, or old foes could return to challenge him.
How does the conflict with his father specifically impact Nick's psychological state?
The conflict with his father, who actively tries to kill him, profoundly impacts Nick's psychological state by fostering deep trust issues and a sense of betrayal. This paternal antagonism likely fuels his internal struggle and makes him question his identity and worth, adding a significant layer of emotional turmoil.
What psychological toll does the 'hero or destroyer' prophecy take on Nick?
The 'hero or destroyer' prophecy places an immense psychological toll on Nick, burdening him with overwhelming pressure and existential dread. He likely experiences anxiety about his potential for destruction and struggles with self-acceptance, constantly fearing that he might succumb to his darker impulses.
How does Nick's struggle with mundane tasks like driving or relationships reflect his internal conflict?
Nick's struggle with mundane tasks like driving or relationships reflects his internal conflict by highlighting his inability to fully integrate into a normal life. These difficulties underscore the profound disconnect between his extraordinary destiny and his desire for normalcy, symbolizing his internal battle for balance and identity.
In what ways does Nick's character demonstrate resilience despite constant threats?
Nick demonstrates resilience by continually facing down threats, learning new abilities, and refusing to give up, even when his own father is an antagonist. His persistent fight for survival and his determination to protect those he cares about, despite immense pressure, showcase his inner strength and refusal to be broken.
Is Nick's 'destiny' truly predetermined, or does he have agency in choosing his path?
The question of whether Nick's destiny is predetermined or if he has agency is a central thematic debate. While prophecy suggests a path, the narrative often emphasizes his choices and internal struggles, implying that his actions and moral compass will ultimately dictate whether he becomes a hero or a destroyer.
How might the 'loss of himself' mentioned in the synopsis be interpreted beyond physical death?
The 'loss of himself' can be interpreted beyond physical death to mean a loss of his identity, morality, or humanity. It suggests that he might become corrupted by power, succumb to his darker heritage, or sacrifice his core values in the struggle for survival, becoming someone he no longer recognizes.
What is the significance of Nick learning 'survival' as his most important lesson?
Learning 'survival' is significant because it encapsulates not just physical endurance but also the ability to navigate complex moral choices and maintain one's identity amidst overwhelming pressure. It suggests that true survival for Nick means preserving his soul and his capacity for good, rather than just staying alive.
How does the blend of fantasy and young adult romance influence the book's themes?
The blend of fantasy and young adult romance influences the book's themes by grounding Nick's epic struggles in relatable adolescent experiences. This combination allows for exploration of grand destinies alongside themes of identity, first love, and the challenges of growing up, making his journey both fantastical and deeply personal.
What role do the 'Dark-Hunters' play in shaping Nick's understanding of his powers and responsibilities?
The 'Dark-Hunters' serve as a crucial influence in shaping Nick's understanding of his powers and responsibilities, providing him with a framework for battling supernatural threats. Their ethos and the dangers they face likely inform his moral compass and the gravity of his own burgeoning abilities, preparing him for his ultimate destiny.
How does Nick's internal struggle with good and evil reflect broader mythological archetypes?
Nick's internal struggle with good and evil, specifically his potential to be either a hero or a destroyer, reflects classic mythological archetypes of the chosen one and the tragic hero. His journey mirrors ancient tales of individuals grappling with immense power and the moral responsibility that comes with it, echoing figures like Anakin Skywalker or Heracles.
About the author
Sherrilyn Kenyon is an American author known for her work in the fantasy and paranormal romance genres. Her notable books include "Night Embrace," "Devil May Cry," "Infamous," "Infinity," "Retribution," and "Invincible," which feature intricate worlds and complex characters. Kenyon has gained a significant following for her engaging storytelling and unique blend of mythology and romance.
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