Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Pacing
- Moderate
- Mood
- Dark, mysterious, adventurous, rebellious, morally ambiguous
The Wicked Will Rise Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
The Aftermath and a New Mission
After failing to kill Dorothy Gale, Amy Gumm returns to the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked's hideout. The Wicked Witches of the West, East, North, and South confront her, revealing Dorothy is alive and escaped with the Scarecrow. The Order's leaders are in disarray, blaming Amy for the setback. However, the Witches, especially Mombi, hint at an older threat to Oz: the Nome King. They explain Dorothy is not the main evil but a pawn, and the real mission is to stop the Nome King from taking over Oz. Amy's initial goal to destroy Dorothy now seems like a distraction. Her new instructions are to find Princess Ozma.
Escape from the Order
Amy realizes the Order is no longer united, and her life is in danger, particularly from the increasingly unstable Mombi. With her friends, Nox and the changed Pete, she escapes the Order's stronghold. Other Order members, loyal to Mombi, pursue them. During their flight, Amy learns more about the Order's internal conflicts and the factions that emerged after Dorothy's escape. She understands that trusting anyone within the Order is risky. Her only hope is to find Princess Ozma, who supposedly holds the key to defeating the Nome King.
The Shifting Sands and the Nome King's Influence
As Amy, Nox, and Pete travel across Oz, they see the Nome King's destructive impact. The once green landscapes become barren, turning into shifting sands and rocky areas. They witness the forced recruitment of Munchkins and other Ozian creatures into the Nome King's army. Fear grips the land. The group must constantly avoid the Nome King's patrols and the remaining loyalists of the Revolutionary Order. This journey shows them the true extent of the threat facing Oz. It makes Amy question everything she thought she knew about good and evil in this magical land.
Encounter with the Emerald City
Amy, Nox, and Pete eventually reach the Emerald City, finding it under the rule of the Scarecrow and the Tin Woodman, who are now allied with Dorothy. The city, once a symbol of hope, is now a place of fear. Its citizens live under strict watch. The Scarecrow, with the Tin Woodman's heart and the Lion's courage, has become a harsh ruler, manipulating people with propaganda. Amy is shocked by how much her former enemies have changed and how power corrupted them. She realizes infiltrating the Emerald City will be harder than she expected, as it is heavily guarded and full of loyalists.
A Glimpse of Dorothy's True Nature
In the Emerald City, Amy watches Dorothy Gale from a distance. She sees Dorothy's manipulative charm and her ability to sway others. However, Amy also glimpses Dorothy's vulnerability, a hidden fear that suggests a deeper struggle. Amy understands Dorothy is not just a simple villain but a complex character driven by her own desires and fears, possibly controlled by a greater power. This observation makes Amy question the clear-cut morality the Revolutionary Order taught her, blurring the lines between good and evil.
The Oracle of the Glass City
Following a hint, Amy, Nox, and Pete travel to the Glass City, a mysterious, forgotten place. There, they seek an ancient oracle, a being said to hold Oz's collective memories. The oracle, through visions and riddles, reveals Oz's true history, including the old war between the Nome King and Oz's original rulers. Amy learns about Oz's magic and the disrupted balance. The oracle also hints at Princess Ozma's power and her connection to Oz's essence, emphasizing the importance of finding her.
The Revelation of Princess Ozma
After much searching and overcoming various challenges, Amy finds Princess Ozma, who has been hidden for protection. Ozma is not the warrior Amy expected, but a wise and kind leader who deeply understands Oz's magic. Ozma tells Amy the Nome King's full plan: to drain Oz of its magic and turn it into a barren, mineral-rich land for his own gain. Ozma explains she is Oz's rightful ruler and holds the key to restoring its magic, but she needs Amy's help to activate it. Their alliance is a turning point in the fight against the Nome King.
The Quest for the Lost Magic
Princess Ozma gives Amy a new, vital mission: to gather the scattered fragments of Oz's ancient magic before the Nome King can claim them. These fragments are hidden in dangerous places across Oz, guarded by magical creatures and old traps. Amy, now fully committed to Ozma's cause, agrees to this dangerous quest. This journey tests Amy's courage, resourcefulness, and growing magical abilities. She learns to trust her instincts and rely on her friends, Nox and Pete, as they face mythical beasts, treacherous lands, and the constant threat of the Nome King's forces. Each fragment they retrieve brings them closer to restoring Oz's power.
Confrontation with the Nome King's Forces
As Amy and her allies gather the magical fragments, they face more aggressive attacks from the Nome King's forces. The Nome King, sensing their progress, sends his fiercest warriors and constructs to stop them. These encounters are brutal, forcing Amy to use her growing magical powers and leadership skills. She sees the destructive power of the Nome King's army and the damage they inflict on Oz. These battles remind her of the high stakes and urgency of their mission, pushing Amy to her limits and strengthening her resolve to protect Oz.
The Betrayal and a Glimmer of Hope
Just as they are close to finishing their quest, Amy and Ozma discover a betrayal from within their group. A seemingly trusted ally, secretly working for the Nome King, tries to steal the collected magical fragments. This betrayal shakes Amy's trust and almost breaks their determination. However, during the struggle, a surprising revelation comes to light about the Nome King's power and a hidden weakness he possesses. This small glimmer of hope reignites their resolve and provides a new strategy for defeating the seemingly invincible Nome King, setting the stage for a final confrontation.
The Reconciled Order
Recognizing the serious threat from the Nome King, Amy, with Ozma's guidance, tries to unite the divided factions of the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked. She appeals to the remaining Witches and their followers, emphasizing the common enemy that threatens all of Oz, despite their past loyalties. It is difficult, but Amy's sincerity and the growing evidence of the Nome King's destructive power begin to persuade some members. This fragile alliance is a significant change. Those who once wanted to destroy Dorothy (and Amy) now fight alongside her against a greater evil. The unity, though uncertain, provides much-needed reinforcements.
The Heart of Oz
As the final confrontation with the Nome King nears, Amy feels a deep connection to Oz. Through intense magical experiences and visions, she discovers her presence in Oz is not accidental but linked to the land's destiny. She learns she has an innate, powerful magic, a latent ability to influence and protect Oz. This revelation empowers Amy, giving her the confidence and strength to face the ultimate challenge. She realizes her initial mission was simply a catalyst for her to discover her true purpose and potential as a protector of Oz.
The Battle for Oz
The forces of good and evil clash in a final battle for Oz's fate. Amy, Ozma, and their new alliance, including the reunited factions of the Revolutionary Order and other brave Ozians, confront the Nome King's overwhelming army. The battle is fierce and devastating, with magic and weapons clashing across the land. Amy, using her awakened powers and fighting alongside her friends, leads the charge, showing great courage and determination. The stakes are higher than ever, as Oz's very existence hangs in the balance, pushing every character to their limits.
Sacrifice and Victory
At the height of the battle, a critical moment arrives when a heroic sacrifice is made to weaken the Nome King's power. This selfless act, performed by a key character, creates an opening for Amy and Ozma to deliver a decisive blow. Using the combined magic of the collected fragments and Amy's awakened powers, they defeat the Nome King, severing his connection to Oz and stopping him from draining its magic. The victory is hard-won and comes with a cost. The sacrifice leaves a lasting impact on Amy and her allies. Oz is saved, but not without scars, and the future remains uncertain.
The Dawn of a New Oz
With the Nome King defeated, Oz slowly begins to recover. Princess Ozma, with Amy's help, starts the long process of restoring Oz's magic and rebuilding the shattered land. The balance between good and evil is still delicate, and the scars of the war remain. Amy, having played a key part in saving Oz, now faces new responsibilities. Her understanding of Oz, and her place within it, has completely changed. She has evolved from a reluctant hero to a powerful protector, ready for whatever challenges lie ahead in this magical, yet dangerous, land. Oz's future, and Amy's role in it, is now open for a new chapter.
The Wicked Will Rise Characters
Amy Gumm
Protagonist
The reluctant hero from Kansas, tasked with saving Oz.
Amy Gumm is a cynical and often self-deprecating teenager from Kansas, initially feeling out of place and insignificant. Transported to Oz by a tornado, she was initially manipulated by the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked to kill Dorothy. Throughout this book, Amy sheds her initial naivete and develops a stronger sense of purpose and self-worth. She is resourceful, brave, and possesses a latent magical ability that she slowly learns to harness. Her journey is one of self-discovery, where she questions established notions of good and evil and ultimately embraces her role as a protector of Oz.
Relationships: Nox (Close friend and confidante); Pete (Friend and ally); Princess Ozma (Mentor and ally); Dorothy Gale (Initial adversary, later complex rival); Mombi (Manipulative former mentor, now adversary)
Nox
Supporting
Amy's loyal and magically gifted best friend.
Nox is Amy's first true friend in Oz, a boy with dark hair and mysterious magical abilities. He is fiercely loyal to Amy and often acts as her moral compass, urging her to consider the true nature of her actions. Nox is knowledgeable about the hidden paths and dangers of Oz, having grown up within the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked. Despite his past, he possesses a kind heart and a strong sense of justice. He is a skilled fighter and provides much-needed magical assistance and emotional support to Amy throughout their perilous journey.
Pete
Supporting
The reformed Flying Monkey, now a loyal companion.
Pete is a former Flying Monkey, initially a reluctant antagonist, who has since reformed and become a loyal companion to Amy. He is gruff and sarcastic but possesses a hidden kindness and a strong sense of duty. Pete's ability to fly makes him an invaluable asset for reconnaissance and quick escapes. He often provides comic relief but is also a reliable fighter when needed. His transformation from a servant of the Wicked Witches to a free-thinking ally highlights the theme of redemption and the ability of individuals to choose their own path, regardless of their past.
Princess Ozma
Supporting
The rightful, hidden ruler of Oz, key to its magic.
Princess Ozma is the true, benevolent ruler of Oz, who has been hidden away for her protection. She is wise, compassionate, and possesses a deep connection to the ancient magic of Oz. Ozma represents the true good and balance within Oz, offering a stark contrast to the manipulative factions. She guides Amy, revealing the true history of Oz and the ultimate threat of the Nome King. Her presence provides a clear objective and a moral compass for Amy, inspiring her to fight for the restoration of Oz's true magic and harmony.
Relationships: Amy Gumm (Mentor and ally); Nome King (Arch-enemy)
Dorothy Gale
Antagonist/Supporting
The manipulative girl from Kansas, now a powerful figure in Oz.
Dorothy Gale, initially presented as the primary antagonist, is revealed to be a more complex character. She possesses a charming and manipulative personality, capable of swaying others to her will. She has allied herself with the Scarecrow and Tin Woodman, ruling the Emerald City with a firm hand. While her actions often appear villainous, her motivations are hinted to be more nuanced, possibly influenced by an external force or a deep-seated desire for power and control. Amy's perception of Dorothy shifts throughout the book, from pure evil to a potentially misguided or even tragic figure.
Relationships: Amy Gumm (Rival); Scarecrow (Ally and co-ruler); Tin Woodman (Ally and co-ruler)
Mombi
Antagonist
The power-hungry Wicked Witch, leader of a fractured Order.
Mombi is one of the Wicked Witches of Oz and a prominent figure within the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked. She is cunning, ambitious, and increasingly power-hungry, particularly after Dorothy's escape. Mombi is manipulative and ruthless, willing to sacrifice others to achieve her own ends. She initially guides Amy but quickly becomes an adversary as her true, self-serving nature is revealed. Her actions highlight the corrupting influence of power and the internal strife within the 'wicked' faction, making her a dangerous and unpredictable force.
Relationships: Amy Gumm (Former mentor, now adversary); Revolutionary Order of the Wicked (Leader of a faction)
The Nome King
Antagonist
The ancient, malevolent entity seeking to conquer Oz.
The Nome King is revealed as the ultimate antagonist and the true threat to Oz. He is an ancient, malevolent entity who seeks to drain Oz of its magic and transform it into a barren, mineral-rich land for his own gain. He is depicted as powerful, relentless, and utterly devoid of compassion. His influence is seen in the decaying landscapes and the fear gripping the Ozian populace. The Nome King represents a force of ultimate destruction and the complete antithesis to the vibrant, magical nature of Oz. His presence elevates the stakes of the story beyond a simple good-versus-evil narrative.
Relationships: Princess Ozma (Arch-nemesis); Amy Gumm (Primary target)
Scarecrow
Antagonist/Supporting
Once brainless, now a cunning and tyrannical ruler.
The Scarecrow, having acquired a brain and allied with Dorothy, has transformed into a cunning and tyrannical ruler of the Emerald City. He uses his newfound intellect for manipulation and propaganda, maintaining control over the populace. His character arc twists the original narrative, showing how gaining what one desires can lead to corruption and abuse of power. He is a formidable opponent due to his intelligence and strategic thinking, making him a key player in Dorothy's regime and a challenge for Amy to overcome.
Relationships: Dorothy Gale (Ally and co-ruler); Tin Woodman (Ally and enforcer)
Tin Woodman
Antagonist/Supporting
Once heartless, now a ruthless enforcer for Dorothy.
The Tin Woodman, having gained a heart, has paradoxically become a ruthless and unfeeling enforcer for Dorothy and the Scarecrow. His compassion has been twisted into a cold, unwavering loyalty to their regime, making him a dangerous adversary. He serves as the physical might behind their rule in the Emerald City, carrying out their orders without question. His transformation highlights the idea that even fulfilling a long-held desire can lead to unintended and dark consequences, further blurring the lines between what is considered 'good' and 'evil' in Oz.
Relationships: Dorothy Gale (Ally and co-ruler); Scarecrow (Ally and strategist)
The Wicked Will Rise Themes
The Shifting Nature of Good and Evil
This theme is central to the novel. It constantly challenges Amy's ideas about who is 'wicked' and who is 'good.' The Revolutionary Order, first presented as a force for good against Dorothy, is shown to be fractured and manipulative. Dorothy, supposedly the ultimate evil, is revealed as a complex character, possibly a pawn, and not the true villain. The Nome King emerges as the clear evil, but even then, characters switch loyalties, blurring the lines further. Amy herself, initially tasked with a seemingly evil deed (killing Dorothy), becomes a hero by fighting for Oz's true good, which requires her to defy her original mentors. This constant re-evaluation forces Amy and the reader to question quick judgments and look for deeper truths.
“The line between good and evil shifts with just a strong gust of wind.”
Self-Discovery and Identity
Amy's journey is one of self-discovery. She begins as a cynical, insecure girl from Kansas who feels like an outsider. In Oz, she enters a world where her identity is constantly challenged and redefined. She deals with her role as a 'Wicked' girl, then as a potential savior, and finally as a powerful individual deeply connected to Oz. Her internal struggles, growing confidence, and acceptance of her latent magical abilities all contribute to her evolving sense of self. She learns her true power comes not from external labels but from within, and from choosing her own path.
“Maybe being 'wicked' wasn't about being evil. Maybe it was about being strong enough to defy what everyone else expected of you.”
Corruption of Power
The novel explores how power can corrupt, even those who seem good or simply want something they lack. The Scarecrow and Tin Woodman, once sympathetic, become tyrannical rulers after gaining their desired attributes (brain and heart). Mombi's desire for power within the Revolutionary Order leads her to become a dangerous, manipulative figure. Dorothy herself, once seemingly innocent, wields significant power and uses it for control. This theme highlights how seeking and gaining power can change a person's character, turning them from heroes into oppressors, regardless of their initial intentions.
“Having what you want doesn't always make you good. Sometimes, it just makes you greedy.”
Redemption and Second Chances
The theme of redemption is clear in several characters, especially Pete, the former Flying Monkey. Pete, initially a servant of the Wicked Witches, chooses to break free and become a loyal friend and ally to Amy. His transformation shows that individuals are not bound by their past actions or loyalties and can choose a different, more virtuous path. The novel also hints at the possibility of redemption or a more complex understanding for characters like Dorothy, suggesting that even those called 'evil' might have underlying reasons or be capable of change. This theme offers hope and complexity in a world often shown in stark black and white.
“It's not where you start that matters, it's where you choose to go.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The MacGuffin (Lost Magic Fragments)
The essential items driving the main quest.
The scattered fragments of Oz's ancient magic serve as the primary MacGuffin in 'The Wicked Will Rise'. Amy and Princess Ozma's quest to locate and gather these fragments is the central driving force of the narrative. These items are crucial for restoring Oz's power and ultimately defeating the Nome King. While their specific powers are important, their true significance lies in motivating the characters' actions, leading them through various dangers, and providing a clear objective for the majority of the story. The retrieval of each fragment marks a step forward in their overarching mission.
The Prophecy/Oracle
A source of ancient knowledge guiding the hero.
The oracle in the Glass City acts as a classic plot device, providing Amy with vital information and a deeper understanding of Oz's history and the Nome King's true threat. The oracle's revelations about Princess Ozma, the ancient war, and the nature of Oz's magic serve to clarify Amy's mission and give her direction. Without this device, Amy would be largely without guidance, fumbling in the dark. It also adds a layer of mysticism and destiny to her journey, suggesting that her arrival and mission are part of a larger, preordained plan for Oz.
Betrayal
An unexpected turn by a trusted ally.
The element of betrayal is a significant plot device used to create tension, raise stakes, and test Amy's trust. The unexpected betrayal by a seemingly trusted ally near the climax of the story serves to deepen the emotional impact and complicates the heroes' mission. This device forces Amy to re-evaluate her alliances and highlights the pervasive nature of deception in Oz. It also creates an opportunity for a sudden shift in strategy or a new revelation, pushing the narrative forward and intensifying the conflict leading up to the final confrontation.
The Hero's Journey (Refusal of the Call)
Amy's initial reluctance to embrace her destiny.
While not a single device, Amy's initial 'refusal of the call' is a clear stage of the Hero's Journey. At the beginning, Amy is reluctant to accept her role as a 'Wicked' girl and is often cynical about her purpose in Oz. She questions her abilities and wishes to return home. This initial resistance makes her eventual acceptance of her destiny and her transformation into a powerful leader more impactful. It allows for character growth and provides a relatable entry point for the reader, as Amy grapples with the overwhelming challenges placed upon her.
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What is the main mission given to Amy Gumm at the beginning of the story?
- To find the Wizard of Oz.
- To remove the Tin Woodman's heart, steal the Scarecrow's brain, take the Lion's courage, and ensure Dorothy dies.
- To restore Princess Ozma to the throne.
- To bring Dorothy back to Kansas.
Show answer
B. To remove the Tin Woodman's heart, steal the Scarecrow's brain, take the Lion's courage, and ensure Dorothy dies. Amy's initial mission is explicitly stated as a series of actions against Dorothy's companions and Dorothy herself.
Question 2
Who is described as Amy's only potential ally?
- The Tin Woodman
- The Scarecrow
- The Cowardly Lion
- Princess Ozma
Show answer
D. Princess Ozma The text mentions that 'mysterious Princess Ozma might be Amy’s only ally.'
Question 3
What organization has vanished, creating a new problem for Amy?
- The Good Witch Alliance
- The Emerald City Guard
- The Revolutionary Order of the Wicked
- The Kansas Brigade
Show answer
C. The Revolutionary Order of the Wicked The text states, 'Now the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked has vanished.'
Question 4
What familiar place is also revealed to be in danger?
- The Emerald City
- Kansas
- The Land of the Munchkins
- The Quadling Country
Show answer
B. Kansas The passage mentions that 'Kansas, the home she couldn't wait to leave behind, may also be in danger.'
Question 5
According to the description, where does the line between good and evil shift easily?
- In the heart of the Emerald City
- In the minds of the Wicked
- In Oz
- In Amy's memories of Kansas
Show answer
C. In Oz The text states, 'In a place where the line between good and evil shifts with just a strong gust of wind...' This place is Oz.
Question 6
What realization does Amy come to regarding her mission?
- That her mission was too easy.
- That Dorothy was actually a villain.
- That she's only scratched the surface of Oz's past and the truth of her mission.
- That she needs to ally with the Wizard.
Show answer
C. That she's only scratched the surface of Oz's past and the truth of her mission. The passage says, 'As Amy learns the truth about her mission, she realizes that she’s only just scratched the surface of Oz’s past—and that Kansas... may also be in danger.'
Question 7
What is the primary conflict Amy faces regarding trust?
- She doesn't trust any of Dorothy's original companions.
- She is unsure who among the inhabitants of Oz is truly good or evil.
- She suspects Princess Ozma will betray her.
- She doesn't trust her own instincts.
Show answer
B. She is unsure who among the inhabitants of Oz is truly good or evil. The question 'who can Amy trust—and who is really Wicked?' directly addresses the central dilemma of trust in a morally ambiguous Oz.
Question 8
The mission Amy is given involves acquiring specific items/attributes from which characters?
- The Wizard, Glinda, and the Munchkins
- The Tin Woodman, Scarecrow, and Cowardly Lion
- Dorothy, Toto, and the Wicked Witch of the West
- The Scarecrow, the Wizard, and the Wizard's horse
Show answer
B. The Tin Woodman, Scarecrow, and Cowardly Lion The mission explicitly states: 'remove the Tin Woodman’s heart, steal the Scarecrow’s brain, take the Lion’s courage.'
Question 9
The phrase 'the line between good and evil shifts with just a strong gust of wind' suggests that in Oz, morality is:
- Absolute and unchanging
- Easily manipulated and fluid
- Defined by external forces like the Wizard
- Determined by one's origin, like Kansas or Oz
Show answer
B. Easily manipulated and fluid This metaphorical language implies that what is considered 'good' or 'evil' in Oz is not fixed and can change rapidly, indicating a fluid and potentially unreliable moral landscape.
Question 10
Amy's initial desire to leave Kansas behind is contrasted with the later revelation that Kansas might be in danger. This suggests a narrative arc involving:
- Amy's growing disillusionment with Oz.
- A shift in Amy's priorities and potential acceptance of her home.
- The overwhelming power of the Wicked.
- The futility of Amy's original mission.
Show answer
B. A shift in Amy's priorities and potential acceptance of her home. The contrast highlights a potential character development for Amy. What she once wanted to escape might become something she needs to protect, indicating a change in her perspective and values.
The Wicked Will Rise FAQ
What is the main goal of Amy Gumm in 'The Wicked Will Rise'?
Amy Gumm's initial mission is to make Oz a free land by taking the heart from the Tin Woodman, the brain from the Scarecrow, and the courage from the Lion. Her ultimate objective, as part of this mission, is to ensure Dorothy dies.
Is Dorothy dead in 'The Wicked Will Rise'?
Despite Amy's mission, Dorothy is still alive at the beginning of 'The Wicked Will Rise'. Her survival complicates Amy's quest and the political landscape of Oz.
Who is Princess Ozma in 'The Wicked Will Rise'?
Princess Ozma is presented as a potential ally to Amy Gumm. As the truth about Amy's mission unfolds, Ozma's role becomes increasingly significant in understanding the past and future of Oz.
What is the Revolutionary Order of the Wicked?
The Revolutionary Order of the Wicked is a group that has vanished by the time 'The Wicked Will Rise' begins. Their disappearance and past actions are central to the unfolding mysteries within the story.
What is the relationship between Oz and Kansas in the book?
Amy Gumm originally wanted to leave Kansas behind, but as she learns more about her mission and the dangers facing Oz, she realizes that her home, Kansas, may also be in peril.
What makes 'The Wicked Will Rise' different from traditional Oz stories?
This book flips the traditional narrative by focusing on a character tasked with defeating the iconic characters of Oz. It explores the shifting lines between good and evil, questioning who is truly wicked.
What kind of challenges does Amy face in Oz?
Amy faces moral dilemmas as she uncovers the truth about her mission. She must navigate a land where good and evil are not clearly defined and decide who she can trust.
Is 'The Wicked Will Rise' a standalone novel or part of a series?
'The Wicked Will Rise' is part of Danielle Paige's 'Dorothy Must Die' series, which reimagines the world of Oz.
What themes are explored in 'The Wicked Will Rise'?
The book explores themes of morality, the nature of good versus evil, destiny, and the complexities of loyalty and trust in a world where perceptions can be deceiving.
Who is the target audience for 'The Wicked Will Rise'?
'The Wicked Will Rise' is a young adult fantasy novel, so it is primarily aimed at teenage readers who enjoy adventure, magic, and dark retellings of classic stories.
About the author
Danielle Paige is a "New York Times" bestselling author of young adult fantasy novels. She is best known for her Dorothy Must Die series, which reimagines "The Wizard of Oz." Her other notable works include "The End of Oz," "Yellow Brick War," "The Wicked Will Rise," and "Stealing Snow."
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