Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Adventure, Mythic, Historical, Suspenseful
- Read it if
- You enjoy historical fiction blended with fantasy and myth, featuring courageous young protagonists and a journey across ancient Greece.
- Skip it if
- You prefer realistic historical fiction without any fantastical elements or prophecies.
Oracle Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
The Village and the Raiders
Nikko, a young boy from a small, unnamed village, lives a simple life with his younger sister, Thetis, who can see glimpses of the future. Their quiet life ends when Mycenaean raiders attack their village. The raiders, led by a brutal warrior, ransack homes and capture villagers, including Nikko and Thetis, planning to sell them into slavery. Nikko tries to protect Thetis, but they are both overwhelmed and bound. Their journey from home is harsh and terrifying, ending their childhood innocence and pushing them into a dangerous, unknown world where their survival depends on their wits and unique skills.
Acrobats for the King
While captive, Nikko and Thetis discover their acrobatic talents. As they are shown for sale in a Mycenaean city, their agility and balance catch the eye of a powerful courtier. Instead of being sold into hard labor, they are brought before the King of Mycenae, a man who loves entertainment and omens. Their acrobatic shows, which they quickly develop, become a source of fascination for the court. The King is particularly charmed by Thetis, not just for her physical skill but for her ability to speak truths about the future, often in cryptic but accurate ways. They go from potential slaves to performers, though still under the King's control.
Thetis's Prophecy and the King's Fury
Thetis's visions become more frequent and clear. One day, during a performance, she foresees a huge earthquake that will destroy much of Mycenae and warns the King directly. The King, proud and used to flattery, is furious at this unwelcome prophecy, seeing it as a challenge to his power and a source of bad luck. He refuses to believe her, dismissing her vision as childish nonsense or an attempt to undermine him. In a rage, he orders Thetis imprisoned, believing he can silence the truth by silencing the messenger. Nikko is devastated and fears for his sister's life, knowing the King's anger often means death.
Nikko's Escape and Euridice's Aid
After Thetis's imprisonment, Nikko is left alone and desperate at the Mycenaean court. He is watched closely, but his acrobatic skills still make him valuable. He realizes he must find a way to rescue his sister. He meets Euridice, a spirited horse dancer who also performs for the King. Euridice, who dislikes the King's cruelty and sees the injustice done to Thetis, offers to help Nikko. Together, they plan an escape. Using their combined skills — Nikko's agility and Euridice's knowledge of the stables and her horses — they manage to slip away from the heavily guarded palace under cover of night, leaving Mycenae behind.
Journey Across Greece
Nikko and Euridice begin a dangerous journey across the rugged lands of ancient Greece. They face many challenges, including harsh weather, dangerous animals, and the constant threat of being chased by the King's guards. Euridice's skill with horses is important, allowing them to travel quickly, but they must also be careful of other travelers and bandits. Their journey is not just physical; it tests their endurance and their growing trust in each other. Nikko is driven by his determination to find Thetis, while Euridice, initially motivated by a sense of justice, becomes deeply invested in their quest and Nikko's safety.
The Earthquake and its Aftermath
While Nikko and Euridice are still traveling, Thetis's prophecy comes true. A massive earthquake hits Mycenae, just as she predicted. The city, built on unstable ground, is destroyed, its grand palaces and fortifications crumbling. The chaos is immense, with many lives lost and the city in disorder. This event proves Thetis's abilities were real, showing her warnings were not baseless. The King, if he survived, would face the results of his arrogance and his failure to listen to the oracle's warning. The earthquake changes the land, both literally and figuratively, for everyone involved.
Reaching Delphi
After weeks of hard travel, Nikko and Euridice finally reach Delphi, a sacred site known for its oracle. Delphi is a place of mystery and spiritual power, very different from the busy, materialistic court of Mycenae. They find the atmosphere here to be one of reverence and quiet thought. Nikko hopes this is where he will find answers about Thetis's fate and possibly reunite with her. The journey has changed both of them, making Nikko more resilient and Euridice more caring. They are greeted by the priests and priestesses who guard the sacred site, who recognize something special in Thetis's gifts.
Thetis, the Oracle
Upon arriving at Delphi, Nikko learns that Thetis, after her escape or release during the earthquake, made her way to this sacred place. Her prophetic abilities, scorned in Mycenae, are respected and understood at Delphi. She has been recognized as the new Oracle, a powerful seer who shares the will of the gods with mortals. Thetis, though still young, has accepted her destiny and its responsibility. She is no longer the frightened girl from the village, but a figure of spiritual authority. The reunion with Nikko is emotional, but it is clear that Thetis's path has changed greatly from his own.
The Future of the Oracle
Nikko, though initially sad about the distance that has grown between him and his sister due to her new role, comes to understand and accept Thetis's destiny as the Oracle. He realizes that her gifts are for a greater purpose than just their family. Euridice also finds a sense of belonging and purpose at Delphi, helping Nikko and supporting Thetis. They both decide to stay at Delphi, becoming part of the community that protects and serves the Oracle. Their past lives in the village and at the Mycenaean court seem distant, replaced by a future dedicated to wisdom, prophecy, and the unfolding of history through Thetis's visions. Their journey has brought them to a place where they can contribute to a larger story.
A New Beginning
With Thetis as the Oracle, and Nikko and Euridice by her side, a new chapter begins for all three. Nikko, with his loyalty and protectiveness, becomes a trusted confidant and guardian for Thetis, helping her with her prophetic duties. Euridice, with her practical skills and courage, finds a role in supporting the Delphic community and perhaps training new horse dancers for sacred rituals. The novel ends with the feeling that their individual destinies have met at Delphi, forming a new kind of family and purpose. They are no longer just survivors, but active participants in shaping the future, with Thetis's visions guiding them through the turbulent ancient world.
Principal Figures
Nikko
Protagonist
A loyal and protective brother, thrust into a world beyond his village.
Nikko is a young, resourceful boy from a simple village background. He is fiercely protective of his younger sister, Thetis, and his primary motivation throughout the story is her safety and well-being. He possesses a keen sense of observation and adaptability, which helps him survive the harsh realities of slavery and the cutthroat Mycenaean court. Though initially naive, his experiences force him to mature quickly, developing courage and resilience. He is not a fighter by nature but will do whatever it takes to protect those he loves, especially Thetis. His acrobatic skills are a means to an end, a way to survive and stay close to his sister.
Relationships: Thetis (Younger sister, fiercely protective of her); Euridice (Ally and close companion, forms a deep bond with her)
Thetis
Protagonist/Oracle
Nikko's younger sister, gifted with the unsettling power of prophecy.
Thetis is a quiet, observant girl with an extraordinary gift: she can see glimpses of the future. This ability, initially a source of confusion and fear, eventually defines her destiny. She is sensitive and perceptive, often seeing truths that others prefer to ignore. Despite her youth, she possesses an inner strength and an unwavering belief in her visions, even when they put her in grave danger. Her journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance of her unique role in the world. She is not easily swayed by power or flattery, remaining true to the truths she perceives.
Relationships: Nikko (Older brother, relies on his protection and love); King of Mycenae (Antagonist, who rejects and punishes her prophecies)
Euridice
Supporting
A daring and independent horse dancer who aids Nikko.
Euridice is a spirited and courageous horse dancer at the Mycenaean court. Unlike many others, she is not easily intimidated by the King and possesses a strong sense of justice. She is independent, skilled, and embodies a wild, untamed spirit, much like the horses she commands. Her compassion for Nikko and Thetis, coupled with her disdain for the King's tyranny, leads her to risk her own safety to help them escape. She is practical and resourceful, using her knowledge of the land and her horses to navigate their perilous journey. She becomes a loyal companion and friend to Nikko.
Relationships: Nikko (Ally and close companion, forms a deep bond with him); King of Mycenae (Employer, but secretly despises his cruelty)
The King of Mycenae
Antagonist
A powerful and arrogant ruler who despises unwelcome truths.
The King of Mycenae is a proud, tyrannical, and self-absorbed ruler. He is accustomed to absolute power and flattery, and any challenge to his authority or presentation of unwelcome truths is met with extreme displeasure. He values entertainment and omens but only those that reinforce his own power and good fortune. His arrogance blinds him to the genuine warnings of Thetis, leading to dire consequences for his city. He represents the dangers of unchecked power and the folly of ignoring difficult truths. He is ultimately responsible for Thetis's imprisonment and the subsequent devastation of his city.
Relationships: Thetis (Imprisons her for her prophecies); Nikko (Master/captor, but unaware of Nikko's escape plans); Euridice (Employer, but unaware of her disloyalty)
The Raiders
Mentioned
Brutal warriors who initiate Nikko and Thetis's journey by capturing them.
The raiders are a faceless, brutal force representing the harsh realities and dangers of the ancient world. They are responsible for destroying Nikko and Thetis's peaceful village and selling them into slavery. Their actions serve as the catalyst for the entire plot, forcing the protagonists out of their innocence and into a perilous journey. They are driven by greed and the desire for conquest, embodying the chaotic and violent aspects of the era. They have no individual personalities but represent a collective threat.
Priests and Priestesses of Delphi
Supporting
Guardians of the Oracle and the sacred site of Delphi.
These are the wise and reverent individuals who serve and protect the Oracle at Delphi. They are steeped in ancient traditions and possess a deep understanding of prophecy and the spiritual world. Unlike the Mycenaean court, they recognize and respect Thetis's gifts, guiding her into her role as the Oracle. They provide a safe haven and a sense of belonging for Thetis, Nikko, and Euridice, representing wisdom, spiritual guidance, and a more enlightened approach to prophetic abilities. They are a collective presence, not individual characters, embodying the values of Delphi.
Relationships: Thetis (Mentors and guides her as the new Oracle); Nikko (Offers refuge and a new purpose); Euridice (Offers refuge and a new purpose)
Themes & Insights
Destiny vs. Free Will
The novel explores the tension between fate and individual choices. Thetis's prophetic abilities suggest a fixed future, yet her actions and the choices of those around her, like Nikko and Euridice, influence how that destiny happens. The King's refusal to believe Thetis's prophecy of the earthquake shows that even if destiny is set, one's response to it can determine personal outcome. Thetis accepts her destiny as the Oracle, but her choice to use her gift for a greater good defines her.
“The future is a river, always flowing, but sometimes a great rock can change its course, if someone dares to move it.”
The Power of Truth and Consequences of Ignorance
The main conflict is about the King's inability to accept Thetis's inconvenient truth about the coming earthquake. This theme shows how truth, even unwelcome, is unavoidable, and ignoring it leads to disaster. The King's pride prevents him from listening to the warning, causing the destruction of Mycenae. Conversely, Thetis's courage to speak her truth, despite the danger, leads her to a place where her gift is valued and respected, making her the Oracle. The story strongly suggests listening to uncomfortable truths.
“A king who cannot hear the truth, even when it is whispered by a child, is a king whose kingdom will crumble.”
Loyalty and Family Bonds
Nikko's loyalty to his sister, Thetis, is the emotional heart of the story. His entire journey is driven by his wish to protect and reunite with her. This bond is tested by separation, danger, and Thetis's change, but it stays the strongest force in his life. Euridice's loyalty, first to justice and then to Nikko, also shows the power of chosen family and friendship in overcoming hardship. The novel suggests that these deep personal connections provide strength and purpose in a chaotic world, allowing characters to face difficult challenges.
“He would walk to the end of the world, if that was where his sister was. There was no other path for him.”
Adaptability and Survival
Nikko and Thetis must adapt quickly to challenging circumstances, from slavery to performing for a king, and finally to spiritual leadership. Their acrobatic skills are a good example of this adaptability, allowing them to survive and even succeed in the Mycenaean court. Euridice's resourcefulness and horsemanship also show this theme. The characters learn to navigate dangerous lands, political plots, and personal change, highlighting the human ability to endure and find new purpose in the face of drastic change. Their journey from a simple village to the complex world of Delphi shows their resilience.
“The wind changes, the tide turns. Only fools stand still and expect the world to wait for them.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
Prophecy/Foreshadowing
Thetis's visions of the future, often cryptic but always accurate.
Thetis's prophetic abilities serve as the central plot device, driving the narrative forward and creating dramatic tension. Her visions, particularly the one about the earthquake, foreshadow major events and create a sense of impending doom. This device not only reveals plot points before they happen but also highlights the theme of destiny and the consequences of ignoring warnings. The prophecies also define Thetis's character arc, transforming her from a peculiar child into a revered Oracle, and shape the paths of Nikko and Euridice as they seek to understand and respond to these future revelations.
The Journey/Quest
Nikko and Euridice's arduous travel across Greece to find Thetis.
The physical journey undertaken by Nikko and Euridice is a classic quest narrative. It serves not only to advance the plot by moving characters from one significant location (Mycenae) to another (Delphi) but also acts as a catalyst for their personal growth and the strengthening of their bond. Along the way, they encounter various challenges and learn valuable lessons about survival, trust, and the nature of the world outside the court. The journey is a metaphor for their transition from innocence and servitude to self-reliance and purpose, ultimately leading them to their destined roles at Delphi.
The Oracle of Delphi
A sacred site and the ultimate destination, representing spiritual authority and truth.
The Oracle of Delphi functions as a powerful symbolic and literal destination. Initially, it is a distant hope, a place where prophecy is understood and respected, contrasting sharply with the Mycenaean court's dismissal of Thetis's gifts. Upon arrival, it becomes the stage for Thetis to embrace her true calling, transforming her from a persecuted seer into a revered spiritual leader. The Oracle represents wisdom, spiritual truth, and a refuge for those with unique gifts, providing a sense of belonging and purpose for the protagonists that was absent in their earlier lives.
Acrobatic Skills
Nikko and Thetis's physical talents, used for survival and entertainment.
The acrobatic skills of Nikko and Thetis are a key plot device for their initial survival and integration into the Mycenaean court. These skills save them from slavery, providing them with a temporary means of existence and keeping them in proximity to the King. Beyond mere entertainment, their agility and balance represent their adaptability and resourcefulness, allowing them to navigate dangerous situations and ultimately aiding Nikko in his escape. The skills are a double-edged sword: they offer temporary safety but also place them under the King's unpredictable whims.
Oracle Quotes
“The oracle did not tell the future. It told the present, and the present was always changing.”
“There are many ways to be brave, and not all of them involve a sword.”
“A lie can run around the world before the truth has even got its boots on.”
“Sometimes the greatest power is to choose not to use it.”
“The gods do not make our choices for us. They merely provide the stage.”
“To see is not always to understand. And to understand is not always to accept.”
“Every ending is a new beginning, even if it doesn't feel like it at the time.”
“Fear is a powerful master, but hope is an even stronger servant.”
“The smallest kindness can light up the darkest day.”
“History is not just what happened, but who tells the story.”
“Even the strongest walls can crumble from within.”
“The future is not set in stone, but woven from the threads of our choices.”
“Silence can be a louder weapon than any shout.”
“Wisdom is not found in knowing all the answers, but in knowing which questions to ask.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What skill do Nikko and Thetis possess that saves them from slavery and gains them favor at the Mycenaean court?
- Exceptional singing abilities
- Amazing acrobatic skills
- Talent for storytelling
- Unusual strength for their age
Show answer
B. Amazing acrobatic skills The book states that their 'amazing acrobatic skills save them from slavery and make them the focus of the Mycenaean court.'
Question 2
Why does Thetis risk angering the King at the Mycenaean court?
- She insults his favorite horse.
- She refuses to perform for him.
- She tells him a truth about his future he doesn't want to hear.
- She tries to steal a royal artifact.
Show answer
C. She tells him a truth about his future he doesn't want to hear. The synopsis mentions that 'Thetis may destroy them both when she tells the King a truth about his future that he doesn't want to hear.'
Question 3
Who accompanies Nikko on his journey across Greece to find Thetis?
- A wise old merchant
- The daring horse dancer Euridce
- A loyal Mycenaean guard
- His entire family
Show answer
B. The daring horse dancer Euridce The summary explicitly states, 'Nikko and the daring horse dancer Euridce must travel across Greece to find his sister again.'
Question 4
Where do Nikko and Euridce believe they will find Thetis and the extraordinary future that awaits them all?
- In Athens
- In Sparta
- In Delphi
- In their home village
Show answer
C. In Delphi The text indicates their destination: 'Nikko and the daring horse dancer Euridce must travel across Greece to find his sister again - and the extraordinary future that awaits them all - in Delphi.'
Question 5
What natural disasters are mentioned as elements woven into the story?
- Volcanic eruptions and droughts
- Blizzards and sandstorms
- Earthquakes and tsunamis
- Floods and wildfires
Show answer
C. Earthquakes and tsunamis Jackie French 'waves history, myth and fantasy together into one enthralling tale of horse dancers, earthquakes and tsunamis'.
Question 6
What is the central question posed by the narrative regarding Thetis's potential impact?
- Can one young girl master horse dancing?
- Can one young girl change history?
- Can one young girl escape slavery?
- Can one young girl predict the weather?
Show answer
B. Can one young girl change history? The summary directly asks: 'Can one young girl change history?' This highlights a core theme of the book.
Question 7
What genre elements does Jackie French blend together in 'Oracle'?
- Science fiction, romance, and mystery
- History, myth, and fantasy
- Contemporary, adventure, and horror
- Biography, drama, and comedy
Show answer
B. History, myth, and fantasy The text states that Jackie French 'waves history, myth and fantasy together into one enthralling tale.'
Question 8
The setting of the story, Mycenaean court and Delphi, places the narrative in which historical period or cultural context?
- Ancient Roman Empire
- Medieval Europe
- Ancient Greece, specifically the Mycenaean civilization era
- The Egyptian New Kingdom
Show answer
C. Ancient Greece, specifically the Mycenaean civilization era Mycenaean court and Delphi are key locations in Ancient Greece, specifically referring to the Mycenaean civilization, which predates classical Greek periods. The book is described as 'from beyond recorded time,' hinting at a very early historical setting.
Question 9
The phrase 'the king's displeasure means death' primarily establishes what aspect of the Mycenaean court's atmosphere?
- The King's love for dramatic performances.
- A strict and perilous environment where one wrong word can have fatal consequences.
- The King's preference for silence over conversation.
- A system of justice based on public opinion.
Show answer
B. A strict and perilous environment where one wrong word can have fatal consequences. This phrase immediately sets a tone of danger and high stakes, indicating that the King holds absolute power and is quick to inflict severe punishment, creating a perilous environment for those around him.
Question 10
Given the title 'Oracle' and Thetis's action of telling the King a truth about his future, what specific role or ability is Thetis likely to embody or develop?
- A skilled warrior or fighter.
- A prophetess or seer of the future.
- A master architect or builder.
- A renowned musician or composer.
Show answer
B. A prophetess or seer of the future. The term 'Oracle' refers to a person or agency considered to be a source of wise counsel or prophetic opinion, often through communication with a deity. Thetis's act of telling the King his future directly aligns with the role of a prophetess, especially given the destination of Delphi, famous for its Oracle.
Oracle FAQ
What is the central premise of 'Oracle'?
'Oracle' follows Nikko and Thetis, two siblings with extraordinary acrobatic skills, who are taken from their village. Their talents save them from slavery and lead them to the Mycenaean court, where Thetis's unwelcome prophecy to the King sets off a dangerous chain of events, forcing Nikko to embark on a quest to find her.
Who are the main protagonists of the story?
The main protagonists are Nikko, a young boy with acrobatic skills, and his sister Thetis, who possesses prophetic abilities. Later, Euridce, a daring horse dancer, joins Nikko on his journey, becoming a significant character in their quest to find Thetis.
What is the significance of the Mycenaean court in the early part of the book?
The Mycenaean court is where Nikko and Thetis initially find fame and temporary safety due to their acrobatic talents. However, it also becomes the catalyst for their separation when Thetis delivers a prophecy that angers the King, leading to her banishment and Nikko's subsequent quest.
What role do prophecies play in the narrative?
Prophecies are central to the plot, particularly Thetis's ability to see the future. Her initial prophecy to the Mycenaean King drives the conflict, and the journey to Delphi suggests a deeper, more profound connection to the oracular traditions of ancient Greece, hinting at a larger destiny for Thetis.
What real-world historical or mythological elements are woven into the fantasy narrative?
The book incorporates elements of ancient Greek history, such as the Mycenaean civilization and the significant site of Delphi, famous for its Oracle. It also blends in natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis, which were historically significant in the region, alongside mythological concepts of fate and prophecy.
What is the implied fate of the Mycenaean King after Thetis's prophecy?
While not explicitly detailed, Thetis's prophecy likely foretells a future displeasing or dangerous to the King. Given the historical context of the Bronze Age collapse and the King's reaction, it implies a decline or downfall, validating Thetis's prophetic sight and setting the stage for historical change.
How do Nikko's acrobatic skills evolve beyond just entertainment?
Nikko's acrobatic skills, initially a means of survival and entertainment, likely become crucial for navigating dangerous landscapes and overcoming obstacles during his journey across Greece. They represent his adaptability and resourcefulness, proving vital for his and Euridce's survival in challenging situations.
What is the symbolic significance of Delphi in the story?
Delphi is highly symbolic, representing the ultimate destination for truth and destiny. Historically the site of the most important oracle in the ancient world, it signifies Thetis's true calling and the convergence of prophecy, history, and the extraordinary future mentioned in the synopsis.
Are the earthquakes and tsunamis purely plot devices, or do they carry deeper meaning?
The earthquakes and tsunamis serve as more than just plot devices; they are historically accurate threats to ancient civilizations in the Aegean and symbolize the unpredictable, powerful forces of nature that can alter human destiny. They underscore the fragility of human power against a larger, more ancient world.
How does Thetis's prophetic ability impact her psychological state?
Thetis's prophetic ability likely causes her significant psychological burden, as she sees futures that others may not believe or wish to hear. This can lead to feelings of isolation, responsibility, and fear, especially when her truths lead to dangerous consequences for herself and Nikko.
What psychological journey does Nikko undertake as he searches for Thetis?
Nikko undergoes a journey of maturation, moving from a reliant sibling to a determined, resourceful individual. His quest for Thetis forces him to confront fears, develop courage, and build new alliances, transforming him into a more independent and capable protagonist.
How does the King's reaction to Thetis's prophecy reflect human nature?
The King's anger and displeasure at an unwelcome truth reflect a common human psychological tendency to reject information that threatens one's power, comfort, or desired future. It highlights the difficulty of accepting harsh realities, even when presented by a truth-teller.
What is the psychological impact of being an 'outsider' like Nikko and Thetis in the Mycenaean court?
As outsiders, Nikko and Thetis likely experience a mix of awe and suspicion from the courtiers, leading to a sense of precarious belonging. This can create feelings of isolation despite their fame, as their status is conditional on their unique talents and the King's favor.
Can one young girl truly change history, as the synopsis suggests?
The synopsis strongly suggests that Thetis, through her prophetic abilities and actions, will indeed influence the course of history. Her role as an 'Oracle' implies she will either foresee or directly contribute to significant historical shifts, possibly related to the rise and fall of civilizations or the establishment of new traditions.
Is the story ultimately about accepting destiny or forging one's own path?
The narrative seems to explore a complex interplay between destiny and free will. While Thetis's prophecies suggest a predetermined future, Nikko and Euridce's active quest to find her implies that courage and action are necessary to navigate, and perhaps even shape, that destiny. It's likely a blend of both.
What is the significance of the 'love and courage' mentioned in the synopsis?
The 'love and courage' refer to the emotional core of the story, likely encompassing the sibling bond between Nikko and Thetis, and potentially a developing romantic affection between Nikko and Euridce. These emotions drive their actions and provide the strength needed to face immense challenges and dangers.
How does the 'beyond recorded time' element contribute to the book's themes?
The 'beyond recorded time' aspect allows the author creative freedom to weave myth and fantasy directly into a historical setting without strict adherence to known records. It emphasizes the timeless nature of the themes—fate, courage, and the power of truth—and suggests a foundational era where legends were born.
Does the book lean more towards a fantasy adventure or a historical fiction with fantasy elements?
The book seems to be a balanced blend, using a historical setting (Mycenaean Greece, Delphi) as a rich backdrop for a fantasy adventure driven by prophetic abilities, mythical undertones, and extraordinary events like tsunamis. It's historical fiction infused with strong fantasy elements.
About the author
Jackie French is an Australian author known for her contributions to children's and young adult literature. Her notable works include "Pennies for Hitler," which explores themes of war and loss, "They Came on Viking Ships," a historical narrative, and "Oracle," a story that intertwines mythology and adventure. French's writing often reflects her interest in history and the natural world.
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