Synopsis
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Pacing
- Fast
- Mood
- Suspenseful, Tense, Conspiratorial, Thrilling
- Read it if
- You enjoy political thrillers with intricate plots, high stakes, and a race against time, featuring everyday characters caught in extraordinary circumstances.
- Skip it if
- You prefer character-driven dramas over plot-heavy thrillers, or dislike stories involving extensive political intrigue and conspiracy.
The Zero Game Plot Summary
Covers the whole plot, including the ending.
The Zero Game's Genesis
Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler, two senior congressional staffers, are bored with their D.C. careers. Matthew works for Congressman Bob Blain, and Harris for Congressman John Smith; they are best friends looking for an escape. Harris discovers 'The Zero Game,' a secret, high-stakes betting pool played by D.C. insiders. The game involves predicting seemingly random events within the Capitol, from a congressman's sneeze to bill votes. Intrigued by the thrill and potential for money, Harris convinces a reluctant Matthew to join, seeing it as a harmless diversion from their cynical lives in politics. They quickly get drawn into the game, unaware of its true, sinister nature.
A Deadly Twist
The Zero Game's initial excitement quickly turns to dread when a player, Carol, is found dead. Her death is officially ruled a suicide, but Matthew and Harris are skeptical, knowing Carol was not likely to harm herself. They suspect her death is connected to The Zero Game, especially after realizing she made an unusual, specific bet just before she died. This incident shatters their view of the game as harmless, forcing them to consider they are involved in something more dangerous. Their initial curiosity turns to fear as they realize they might be next.
On the Run
After Carol's death, Matthew and Harris realize they are being watched. They discover their own lives are in danger, as someone is systematically eliminating players of The Zero Game. Fearing for their safety, they go on the run, leaving their Capitol Hill offices and seeking refuge from an unseen enemy. They piece together clues, realizing the game's bets are not random but manipulated, and the stakes are far higher than money. Their flight from D.C. takes them to various hideouts, constantly looking over their shoulders as they try to understand who is behind the killings and the game's true purpose. They know they must uncover the truth before they become the next victims.
An Unlikely Ally: Mallory
Desperate for help and unable to trust anyone in their usual circles, Matthew and Harris turn to Mallory, a bright, observant sixteen-year-old Senate page. Mallory, with her unique access to the Capitol's hidden passages and ability to move unseen, is an invaluable asset. Her idealism and sharp mind contrast with Matthew and Harris's jadedness, yet she quickly understands their serious situation. She agrees to help them, acting as their eyes and ears inside the Capitol, gathering information and relaying messages. Mallory's innocence and strong moral compass provide a much-needed anchor for the two men, who are increasingly lost in a world of betrayal and deceit.
Unraveling the Conspiracy
With Mallory's help, Matthew and Harris begin to connect the dots. Mallory's access allows her to snoop in places adults cannot, and she uncovers suspicious files and communications. They learn that The Zero Game is not just about betting but is a system for manipulating political events and, possibly, for blackmail. The bets are pre-determined, and the 'players' are often pawns in a larger scheme. The killer is not just silencing witnesses but eliminating those who might expose the game's true architect. The trio realizes they are against a powerful, well-connected adversary who uses the game as a cover for more insidious operations within the heart of American government.
The Capitol's Secrets
Mallory's knowledge of the Capitol's passages is crucial as they search for physical evidence. She guides Matthew and Harris through hidden tunnels, forgotten offices, and secret archives, revealing a side of the Capitol few ever see. These hidden spaces hold clues to the game's origins and the identities of its key players. They uncover historical documents and obscure references that suggest The Zero Game has been active for decades, evolving with each generation of D.C. power brokers. The Capitol itself becomes a character, a silent witness to power, with its walls holding secrets that could either save or condemn them.
The Betrayal
As the investigation deepens, Matthew and Harris face a painful truth: the mastermind behind The Zero Game is someone they know and trust. The betrayal cuts deep, shaking their faith in their own judgment and in the integrity of those they worked with. This revelation forces them to re-evaluate every interaction, every casual conversation, and every seemingly unimportant detail. The betrayer's identity is a significant turning point, adding a personal dimension to the high-stakes thriller, making their quest for justice even more urgent and emotionally charged. They realize the conspiracy reaches far higher than they ever imagined, implicating figures of authority and influence.
Confrontation and Capture
Armed with evidence and a growing understanding of the game's true purpose, Matthew, Harris, and Mallory confront the mastermind. This climactic encounter takes place in a significant, symbolic Capitol location, heightening the tension. The mastermind, a powerful and seemingly untouchable figure, tries to manipulate and intimidate them. However, the trio stands firm, presenting the evidence they gathered. The confrontation escalates, leading to a dangerous chase and a narrow escape for the protagonists, as the mastermind uses their resources to try and silence them permanently.
The Public Unveiling
Having narrowly escaped capture, Matthew, Harris, and Mallory realize that simply confronting the mastermind is not enough; they need to expose the truth to the public. They meticulously compile their evidence, including recordings, documents, and testimonies. With Mallory's connections and Matthew's media knowledge, they leak the story to a trusted journalist, ensuring it gets the attention it deserves. The revelation of The Zero Game's true nature—a system of political manipulation, blackmail, and murder—sends shockwaves through Washington, D.C., and the nation, forcing a reckoning within the corridors of power.
Aftermath and Redemption
After the exposé, the powerful figures involved in The Zero Game face investigations and arrests. While the immediate danger ends, Matthew and Harris must deal with the consequences of their involvement and their past disillusionment. Mallory, having played a key role, is a symbol of integrity and courage. Matthew and Harris, though scarred, find redemption. They are no longer the cynical staffers they once were, having rediscovered their idealism through their fight for truth. They face a new chapter, forever changed by their terrifying journey through The Zero Game, with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper understanding of power's true cost.
Principal Figures
Matthew Mercer
Protagonist
A jaded congressional staffer drawn into a deadly game.
Matthew Mercer is a senior congressional staffer for Congressman Bob Blain, intelligent and once idealistic, but now deeply cynical after years in Washington D.C. He is initially hesitant to join The Zero Game, preferring a safer, more predictable existence. However, his loyalty to Harris and his underlying curiosity lead him into the dangerous world. He is observant and analytical, often the one to piece together clues, but also prone to moments of self-doubt and fear. His primary motivation is survival and protecting his best friend, which eventually evolves into a quest for justice.
Relationships: Harris Sandler (Best friend and co-conspirator in The Zero Game); Mallory (Unlikely ally and source of moral clarity)
Harris Sandler
Protagonist
Matthew's charismatic best friend who introduces him to The Zero Game.
Harris Sandler is Matthew's best friend and a senior staffer for Congressman John Smith. More impulsive and adventurous than Matthew, Harris is the one who discovers The Zero Game and enthusiastically draws Matthew into it, seeing it as a thrilling escape from their stagnant careers. He is charismatic, quick-witted, and initially dismissive of the game's potential dangers. When the stakes turn deadly, Harris struggles with guilt over involving Matthew but proves to be fiercely loyal and resourceful. His drive is to survive and protect Matthew, while also seeking to understand the game's true purpose.
Relationships: Matthew Mercer (Best friend and co-conspirator in The Zero Game); Mallory (Unlikely ally and source of information)
Mallory
Supporting
A sharp, idealistic Senate page who becomes Matthew and Harris's only trusted ally.
Mallory is a bright, observant, and highly intelligent sixteen-year-old Senate page. She possesses an unwavering moral compass and a deep sense of idealism, which contrasts sharply with the jadedness of Matthew and Harris. Her unique position allows her unparalleled access to the Capitol's hidden corners and its inner workings, making her an invaluable asset to the protagonists. She is resourceful, brave, and quick to grasp the gravity of the situation, often providing critical insights and practical solutions. Mallory is driven by a desire for truth and justice, and she believes in the potential for good within the political system.
Relationships: Matthew Mercer (Protects and relies on her unique abilities); Harris Sandler (Protects and relies on her unique abilities)
The Mastermind (Unnamed/Spoiler)
Antagonist
The powerful and ruthless architect behind The Zero Game.
The Mastermind is the shadowy, powerful figure orchestrating The Zero Game. This individual is highly influential within Washington D.C., using the game as a sophisticated tool for political manipulation, blackmail, and to further their own agenda. They are ruthless, intelligent, and utterly devoid of empathy, willing to eliminate anyone who threatens to expose their operations. Their motivations are rooted in a hunger for power and control, operating from a position of perceived invincibility. The Mastermind represents the ultimate corruption of the political system, hiding in plain sight.
Relationships: Matthew Mercer (Target and adversary); Harris Sandler (Target and adversary); Carol (Victim of their machinations)
Carol
Mentioned
A fellow player whose suspicious death ignites Matthew and Harris's investigation.
Carol is one of the initial players of The Zero Game, known to Matthew and Harris. Her sudden and suspicious death, initially ruled a suicide, serves as the catalyst for the protagonists' realization that the game is far more dangerous than they imagined. She made a highly specific and unusual bet before her death, which becomes a key clue in unraveling the conspiracy. Carol represents the first victim of the game's deadly stakes, and her memory fuels Matthew and Harris's determination to uncover the truth and bring her killer to justice.
Relationships: Matthew Mercer (Acquaintance and fellow game player); Harris Sandler (Acquaintance and fellow game player)
Congressman Bob Blain
Supporting
Matthew Mercer's employer and a respected, though somewhat detached, political figure.
Congressman Bob Blain is Matthew Mercer's boss, a well-respected and established figure in Congress. While not directly involved in The Zero Game, his position and the environment of his office provide the backdrop for Matthew's initial disillusionment. He represents the larger, often oblivious, political establishment that the game operates within. He is generally seen as a decent, if somewhat bureaucratic, politician who unknowingly employs a staffer caught in a deadly conspiracy. His character highlights the distance between the public face of politics and the hidden machinations.
Relationships: Matthew Mercer (Employer and staffer)
Congressman John Smith
Supporting
Harris Sandler's employer, another figure in the D.C. political landscape.
Congressman John Smith is Harris Sandler's employer, similar to Congressman Blain in his role as a respected political figure. Like Blain, he is not directly implicated in The Zero Game but represents the broader political context. His staffer, Harris, is the one who discovers and gets drawn into the game. Smith's character helps to establish the professional setting for Harris and Matthew, contrasting the mundane, everyday political work with the dangerous, hidden world of the game. He embodies the often-unaware establishment that provides cover for the antagonists' activities.
Relationships: Harris Sandler (Employer and staffer)
Themes & Insights
Corruption and Power
The novel explores how power corrupts, especially in Washington D.C. The Zero Game itself is a metaphor for the hidden, unethical ways power is used. The mastermind's willingness to kill and manipulate for political gain highlights the moral decay that can come with unchecked ambition. Matthew and Harris, initially drawn to the game out of boredom and a desire for quick money, ultimately confront the deep corruption that underpins it, forcing them to re-evaluate their own involvement and the true cost of their jadedness. This theme is clear in the systematic elimination of players and the manipulation of political events for personal or institutional gain.
“In Washington, the game isn't about winning, it's about making sure everyone else loses.”
Idealism vs. Cynicism
This theme is central to Matthew and Harris's character arcs. They begin the story cynical and disillusioned by their years in politics, seeing The Zero Game as a harmless distraction, a symptom of their lost idealism. However, Mallory, the young Senate page, embodies idealism and a belief in justice. Her presence acts as a moral compass, challenging their jaded views. Through their terrifying experience, Matthew and Harris are forced to confront their cynicism and, in fighting for truth, begin to rediscover a sense of purpose and the idealism they once held. The contrast highlights the struggle to maintain integrity in a corrupt system.
“Sometimes, it takes a kid to remind you what you're fighting for.”
Betrayal and Trust
Trust is fragile in 'The Zero Game.' Matthew and Harris's close friendship is tested, and their trust in the political system, and even in their own judgment, is shattered. The revelation of a trusted insider as the mastermind behind the game is a deep betrayal that shows the insidious nature of the conspiracy. They learn that appearances can be deceiving, and those closest to power are often the most dangerous. Their reliance on Mallory, an outsider to their inner circle, emphasizes the difficulty of finding genuine trust within a corrupt environment and the need to look beyond the obvious.
“In this town, the knife always comes from a friend's hand.”
The Nature of Secrets
The novel explores the power and danger of secrets, especially within government. The Zero Game itself is a closely guarded secret, operating in the Capitol's shadows. The narrative delves into the hidden passages, forgotten histories, and secret operations that exist beneath Washington D.C.'s public facade. The characters' quest involves uncovering layers of secrets, from the game's true nature to its architect's identity. The story suggests that secrets, when held by the powerful, can be used as weapons, twisting truth and enabling corruption, ultimately threatening democracy itself.
“The Capitol has more secrets than it has stones.”
Plot Devices & Literary Techniques
The Zero Game
A clandestine betting game that serves as the central mystery and conspiracy.
The Zero Game is the eponymous plot device, initially presented as a harmless, high-stakes betting pool among D.C. insiders. It quickly evolves into the central mystery and the engine of the plot. The game's bets, seemingly random at first, are revealed to be manipulated and pre-determined, serving as a cover for political manipulation, blackmail, and even murder. It is a symbol of the hidden corruption within the government, drawing the protagonists into a deadly conspiracy. The game's rules, history, and true purpose are gradually unveiled, driving the narrative forward.
The Capitol's Hidden Passages
Physical secret routes within the Capitol building, used for clandestine movement and discovery.
The intricate network of hidden passages, tunnels, and forgotten rooms within the U.S. Capitol building serves as a crucial plot device. Mallory, as a Senate page, has unique knowledge of these routes, enabling Matthew and Harris to move undetected, evade their pursuers, and access restricted areas. These hidden spaces are not just logistical tools but also symbolize the layers of secrets and clandestine operations that occur beneath the public eye of government. They provide a unique setting for suspenseful chases and the discovery of critical evidence, highlighting the physical and metaphorical hidden truths.
The Disillusioned Protagonists
The initial jadedness of Matthew and Harris, which makes them susceptible to the game's allure.
Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler's initial state of disillusionment and cynicism is a key plot device. Their boredom with their D.C. careers makes them susceptible to the allure of The Zero Game, drawing them into the conspiracy. This character trait allows the plot to initiate, as they are looking for an escape and a thrill. Their jadedness also provides a strong contrast to Mallory's idealism, highlighting the moral stakes of the story. Their journey from cynicism to a renewed sense of purpose and justice forms the core of their character arcs and the novel's thematic exploration.
The Zero Game Quotes
“The game is always rigged. You just have to learn how to play it better than everyone else.”
“There are no secrets, only information that hasn't been uncovered yet.”
“Power isn't about what you have, it's about what people *think* you have.”
“Every lie starts with a kernel of truth. That's what makes it so believable.”
“The greatest trick the devil ever pulled was convincing the world he didn't exist, but the second greatest was convincing people they couldn't make a difference.”
“Trust is a luxury in this town, and most people can't afford it.”
“Sometimes, the only way to win is to change the rules.”
“Fear is a powerful motivator. It can make people do things they never thought possible.”
“The past isn't dead. It's not even past. It's just waiting for you to dig it up.”
“In a world of information overload, the most valuable commodity is not data, but context.”
“No one is truly anonymous in the digital age. Not if someone really wants to find you.”
“The line between hero and villain is often just a matter of perspective.”
“Some battles aren't fought with guns, but with whispers.”
“The truth is rarely simple, and never convenient.”
Quiz
10 questions on the plot and the characters. Each answer comes with a short explanation.
Question 1
What are the names of the two best friends who initially get involved in the Zero Game?
- David Miller and Scott Peterson
- Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler
- Michael Davies and Harry Stevens
- Mark Johnson and Peter Smith
Show answer
B. Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler The two main protagonists and best friends who are senior staffers and get involved in the Zero Game are Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler.
Question 2
What is the initial nature of the Zero Game as perceived by Matthew and Harris?
- A complex financial investment scheme
- A simple wager between friends
- A high-stakes poker tournament
- An elaborate political debate
Show answer
B. A simple wager between friends Initially, the Zero Game is described as starting out as 'good fun—a simple wager between friends,' before it turns deadly.
Question 3
Who is the 16-year-old character Matthew and Harris turn to for help when they are on the run?
- A White House intern
- A Capitol Hill journalist
- A Senate page
- A congressional aide
Show answer
C. A Senate page When on the run, Matthew and Harris turn to 'a 16-year-old Senate page who can move around the Capitol undetected.'
Question 4
What specific event causes Matthew and Harris to realize the Zero Game is more sinister than they imagined?
- They lose a significant amount of money.
- Someone close to them ends up dead.
- They are publicly exposed for participating.
- They are threatened with job loss.
Show answer
B. Someone close to them ends up dead. The turning point for Matthew and Harris is when 'someone close to them ends up dead,' revealing the game's true sinister nature.
Question 5
What is the primary motivation for Matthew and Harris to get involved in the Zero Game initially?
- To gain political power
- To expose government corruption
- Boredom and disillusionment with their jobs
- To earn extra income quickly
Show answer
C. Boredom and disillusionment with their jobs After a decade in Washington, their 'idealism has faded to disillusionment, and they're bored,' leading them to the game.
Question 6
In what specific location does the story primarily take place?
- New York City
- Washington, D.C.
- Philadelphia
- Boston
Show answer
B. Washington, D.C. The book 'returns to Washington, D.C., with the story of an insider's game that turns deadly.'
Question 7
What is the role of the 16-year-old Senate page beyond simply helping Matthew and Harris evade capture?
- To testify against the Zero Game players
- To negotiate with the killer
- To redeem them in the process
- To uncover the original rules of the game
Show answer
C. To redeem them in the process The page 'not only holds the key to saving their lives, but is also determined to redeem them in the process.'
Question 8
What does the phrase 'you can bet your life on it' from the book's description suggest about the stakes of the Zero Game?
- The financial rewards are immense.
- The game is highly addictive.
- Participation carries a mortal risk.
- It requires significant strategic thinking.
Show answer
C. Participation carries a mortal risk. The phrase directly implies that the ultimate stake in the Zero Game is life itself, confirming its deadly nature.
Question 9
How do Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler initially gain access to the clandestine Zero Game?
- They are invited by a high-ranking senator.
- One of them 'finds out about' it.
- They stumble upon it accidentally.
- They are forced into it by a blackmailer.
Show answer
B. One of them 'finds out about' it. The description states, 'Then one of them finds out about the clandestine Zero Game,' indicating an insider's discovery.
Question 10
What specific characteristic makes the Senate page an ideal ally for Matthew and Harris when they are on the run?
- Their extensive knowledge of legal loopholes.
- Their ability to move around the Capitol undetected.
- Their connections to the FBI.
- Their financial resources.
Show answer
B. Their ability to move around the Capitol undetected. The description highlights the page's unique advantage: 'a 16-year-old Senate page who can move around the Capitol undetected.'
The Zero Game FAQ
What is the core premise of 'The Zero Game'?
The Zero Game follows best friends Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler, congressional staffers who stumble upon a clandestine betting game among D.C. insiders. What starts as a harmless wager quickly turns deadly when a participant is murdered, forcing them to go on the run and uncover the game's sinister true purpose.
Who are Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler, and what are their roles?
Matthew Mercer and Harris Sandler are senior staffers to powerful congressmen in Washington D.C. They are lifelong best friends who, after years of service, have grown disillusioned with the political system, leading them to seek excitement outside their mundane routines.
What is the 'Zero Game' itself, and how does it initially operate?
The 'Zero Game' is a secret betting pool among D.C. insiders, where participants wager on real-life political events, like the exact vote count on a bill or the timing of a political scandal. It's initially presented as a high-stakes, but ultimately harmless, intellectual challenge for those bored with the daily grind.
Who is the 16-year-old Senate page, and what is her significance?
The 16-year-old Senate page is Mallory, an idealistic and sharp-witted young woman. She becomes Matthew and Harris's only ally and confidante when they are on the run, using her unique access and ability to move unnoticed within the Capitol to help them unravel the conspiracy and stay alive.
What triggers Matthew and Harris to realize the game is dangerous?
Matthew and Harris realize the game is dangerous when Senator Bob Baker, a participant in the Zero Game and someone close to them, is found dead. This event makes it terrifyingly clear that the stakes are real and that the game's outcomes are being manipulated, turning their fun into a fight for survival.
What is the true, deeper purpose of the Zero Game, beyond mere betting?
The true purpose of the Zero Game is revealed to be a mechanism for a powerful cabal to manipulate political events for their own gain. It's not just about predicting outcomes, but actively influencing them, using the bets as a cover for their illicit operations and control over D.C.'s power brokers.
How does the killer operate, and what is their motivation?
The killer is a ruthless operative working for the cabal behind the Zero Game, tasked with eliminating anyone who threatens to expose their operations. Their motivation is to protect the secrecy and integrity of the game, ensuring the cabal's continued control and influence over D.C. politics.
Are there any specific historical or political Easter eggs in the D.C. setting?
While the book is fiction, Meltzer often grounds his thrillers in realistic D.C. operations, implying that the Zero Game reflects the kind of hidden power plays and backroom dealings that are rumored to occur. The intricate descriptions of Capitol Hill's tunnels and procedures lend a layer of authenticity to the fictional conspiracy.
How does the disillusionment of Matthew and Harris contribute to their involvement in the game?
Their deep disillusionment with the slow, often corrupting nature of D.C. politics makes them susceptible to the allure of the Zero Game. They crave excitement and a sense of control that their jobs no longer provide, seeing the game as a way to feel powerful and engaged, despite its morally ambiguous nature.
What psychological transformation do Matthew and Harris undergo during their ordeal?
Matthew and Harris transform from bored, cynical insiders to desperate survivors fighting for their lives and, ultimately, for a sense of redemption. The life-or-death stakes force them to confront their past choices, rekindle their idealism, and learn to trust their instincts and each other in ways they hadn't before.
How does Mallory's idealism contrast with the cynicism of the adult characters?
Mallory's unwavering idealism and belief in the system stand in stark contrast to the jaded cynicism of Matthew and Harris. Her youth and fresh perspective remind them of the principles they once held, serving as a moral compass and a catalyst for their eventual desire for redemption.
What is the psychological impact of being on the run for Matthew and Harris?
Being on the run forces Matthew and Harris into a state of extreme paranoia and heightened awareness, stripping away their comfortable D.C. lives. This intense pressure reveals their true characters, testing their friendship, their courage, and their ability to think clearly under duress, leading to both fear and unexpected resilience.
Is 'The Zero Game' a critique of the American political system?
Yes, 'The Zero Game' can be interpreted as a sharp critique of the American political system, highlighting its susceptibility to corruption, the disillusionment of its workers, and the potential for powerful, unseen forces to manipulate events behind the scenes. It suggests that idealism can easily be crushed by the pursuit of power.
What does the ending suggest about redemption and second chances?
The ending suggests that even deeply flawed individuals, like Matthew and Harris, can find redemption through courageous acts and a renewed commitment to justice. It implies that while the political system may be corrupt, individuals can still choose to fight for what's right, offering a glimmer of hope for second chances.
How does the title 'The Zero Game' relate to the themes of the book?
The title 'The Zero Game' refers not only to the clandestine betting game but also metaphorically to the idea of a zero-sum game in politics, where one side's gain is another's loss, and where ethical lines are often blurred. It also implies that for some, life itself becomes a bet with zero margin for error.
Could the events of 'The Zero Game' realistically happen in Washington D.C.?
While the specific 'Zero Game' is fictional, the novel taps into common anxieties about hidden power structures, insider trading, and the manipulation of political events in Washington D.C. Meltzer's detailed portrayal of D.C. operations makes the core premise feel disturbingly plausible, reflecting the 'what if' anxieties of many.
What is the role of trust and betrayal in the narrative?
Trust and betrayal are central themes, as Matthew and Harris initially trust the game and its participants, only to be betrayed by its true, deadly nature. Their friendship is tested by the ordeal, and they must learn who to truly trust within a system rife with duplicity, ultimately relying on Mallory and each other.
Does the book offer a clear resolution to the corruption, or is it more ambiguous?
The book offers a resolution to the immediate threat posed by the specific cabal behind the Zero Game, bringing justice to its orchestrators. However, it leaves a more ambiguous outlook on the broader issue of systemic corruption in D.C., suggesting that while one battle is won, the underlying challenges of power and influence persist.
About the author
Brad Meltzer is an American author known for his work in the thriller genre. His book "The Zero Game" features a high-stakes political conspiracy intertwined with themes of loyalty and betrayal. Meltzer has also written numerous other fiction works and is recognized for his contributions to both literature and television.
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