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ElvenQuest
ElvenQuest
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ElvenQuest
Other namesElvenquest
Elven Quest
Elven's Quest (working title)
GenreComic fantasy
Running time30 minutes
Country of originUnited Kingdom
LanguageEnglish
Home stationBBC Radio 4
StarringStephen Mangan
Alistair McGowan
Darren Boyd
Kevin Eldon
Sophie Winkleman
Dave Lamb
Chris Pavlo
Written byAnil Gupta
Richard Pinto
Produced byAnil Gupta
Paul Schlesinger
Original release29 March 2009 –
2013
No. of series4
No. of episodes24
WebsiteBBC website

ElvenQuest is a comic fantasy broadcast on BBC Radio 4 by Anil Gupta and Richard Pinto, and starring Stephen Mangan, Alistair McGowan, Darren Boyd, Kevin Eldon, Sophie Winkleman and Dave Lamb.[1] The series takes place in the world of Lower Earth, a parody of Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings by J. R. R. Tolkien. In Lower Earth, a band of warriors go forth to search for a mythical sword to save Lower Earth from the evil Lord Darkness (played by McGowan). In order to do so, they must find "The Chosen One" who will save Lower Earth. The Chosen One is Amis, a dog in the real world which belongs to a fantasy novelist called Sam Porter (played by Mangan).[2] The first series was broadcast from 29 March to 3 May 2009 and the second from 18 November to 23 December 2010. The third series was broadcast from 17 October to 21 November 2011. The fourth series was broadcast from 12 February to 19 March 2013.

Plot

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During the Third Age of Elven Princes of Lower Earth, a band of noble warriors – Vidar the Elf Lord (Boyd), Penthiselea the Warrior Princess (Winkleman, later Ingrid Oliver) and Dean the Dwarf (Eldon) – plan to save Lower Earth from the evil rule of Lord Darkness by searching for the Sword of Asnagar, "for whoso'er wields the sword shall rule all of Lower Earth."[2] However, they first have to discover "The Chosen One" who will lead them to the Sword, whose name is "Amis". Amis is a dog belonging to Sam Porter, a misanthropic fantasy novelist in the real world.

Vidar, Penthiselea and Dean travel via a portal to take Amis, who is with Sam at a book signing in Totnes High Street, to Lower Earth. When they take Amis, Sam follows them and both Sam and Amis arrive in Lower Earth. When they arrive in Lower Earth, Amis is transformed into a human (played by Lamb), retaining many of his canine traits, such as becoming excited when there is a knock at the door, and being totally devoted to Sam. Sam believes he has been kidnapped by deranged fans until he sees the world outside the room in which he awakes. He asks to be sent back home, but is told that the portal is closed and can only be opened by the same Sword of Asnagar that Amis must seek.

Sam decides to travel with Amis, Vidar, Penthiselea and Dean to find the Sword. Meanwhile, Lord Darkness (Alistair McGowan) is planning to stop them from finding the Sword, helped by his evil but dimwitted assistant Kreech (also played by Eldon). Sam proves invaluable in using his modern instincts to trick his way past various creatures barring their way. For instance, he bluffs a three-headed troll guardian of Darkness' fortress in the same way as he would a security guard at a nightclub, distracting it long enough for Dean the dwarf to attack. He also tends to expect secret tunnels and concealed doors because that's the sort of thing he would have written into one of his plots. He is often right.

Characters

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  • Sam Porter (Stephen Mangan). An author of fantasy novels with a jaded attitude, especially towards his more fanatical fans. As the series opens his career and personal life are not going well.
  • Amis, the Chosen One (Dave Lamb). Originally Sam's pet dog and best friend in the world, he transforms into a human in Lower Earth but retains canine traits and behaviours.
  • Vidar the Elf Lord (Darren Boyd), last of a mighty family of Elf Lords, and the leader of the Questers, despite being somewhat dim. His name may be inspired by Víðarr, a god in Norse mythology associated with vengeance.
  • Penthiselea the Warrior Princess (Sophie Winkleman Series 1–3) (Ingrid Oliver Series 4) in silver breastplate armour and thigh-high boots, who has been promised to Vidar since childhood. Sam is very interested in her, but having been raised as a Warrior Princess she has no concept of relationships with men. Her name may be inspired by Penthesilea, a legendary Amazon warrior-queen. Though she changed actress from series three to four, her appearance on the cover art remained the same.
  • Dean the Dwarf (Kevin Eldon), a mighty if diminutive warrior with unsavoury personal habits. After the first series it is hinted less and less subtly that he is gay.
  • Lord Darkness (Alistair McGowan), Lord of Evil, whose efforts to dominate Lower Earth are frustrated by the Questers and his own staff of extremely dimwitted minions. In later episodes, his evil plans frequently do not interfere with those of the questers, and they are generally on cordial terms with each other.
  • Kreech (Kevin Eldon), the Right Hand of Darkness, and only slightly less dimwitted than the other minions -- the name being a contraction of Creature.
  • Other characters played by Chris Pavlo.

Production

[edit]

One of the writers, Gupta, said in an interview with the BBC Comedy website that ElvenQuest is not designed to be a spoof of Lord of the Rings, because this had already been done in an earlier radio sitcom, Hordes of the Things. He also said that: "we wanted to create a show which would exist in its own right. In the best sitcoms the comedy should come from the characters and their inter-relationships, which means they can't simply be two dimensional parodies."[3]

See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
ElvenQuest is a British comic fantasy radio produced by , written by Anil Gupta and Richard Pinto, and first broadcast from 2009 to 2013 across four series comprising 24 episodes. The series parodies epic fantasy tropes, centering on mild-mannered fantasy novelist Sam Porter (voiced by ), who is inexplicably transported from contemporary to the parallel realm of Lower Earth along with his Amis, who transforms into a foul-mouthed warrior and is prophesied as the Chosen One. Accompanied by an ensemble of archetypal fantasy characters—including the vain elf lord Vidar (), the Amazonian warrior princess Penthiselea (), and the diminutive dwarf Dean ()—the group embarks on a quest to retrieve the legendary Sword of Asnagar and thwart the demonic Lord Darkness () and his bumbling minion Kreech (). The show's humor derives from subverting high-fantasy conventions, blending absurd situations, witty dialogue, and satirical jabs at genre clichés like heroic prophecies, magical artifacts, and noble quests, all while incorporating modern anachronisms such as Sam's longing for everyday comforts like and biscuits. Produced by Anil Gupta, Paul Schlesinger, and others, ElvenQuest features a rotating cast that also includes , , and additional voices for its fantastical inhabitants and villains. In 2014, BBC Audio released a compilation titled Elvenquest: The Journey So Far, compiling all 24 episodes into a single audio volume that captures the series' irreverent take on and games. Despite its among and fantasy enthusiasts, no further series have been produced since 2013.

Premise and Setting

Plot Overview

ElvenQuest centers on a parodic fantasy adventure set during the Third Age of Elven Princes in the world of Lower Earth, where a group of warriors embarks on a quest to retrieve the Sword of Asnagar, the only weapon capable of defeating the tyrannical Lord Darkness. The core narrative follows the formation of an unlikely quest party comprising the elf lord Vidar, the warrior princess Penthiselea, the dwarf Dean, and the modern-day interloper Sam Porter along with his dog Amis—who transforms into a foul-mouthed human warrior upon entering Lower Earth and is revealed as the prophesied Chosen One—as they navigate perilous kingdoms and face initial skirmishes with Lord Darkness's minions, including the scheming Kreech. This epic journey blends medieval tropes with comedic clashes between contemporary sensibilities and fantastical elements, highlighting misunderstandings and absurdities that underscore the show's satirical tone. The inciting incident occurs when a mystical portal opens in contemporary , , during a book signing event, drawing Amis into Lower Earth; Sam, Amis's devoted owner and a reluctant participant, pursues him through the rift, thrusting both into the heart of . Key plot developments reveal Amis as the foretold "Chosen One" destined to wield the Sword of Asnagar, propelling the party through a series of trials that test their resolve and camaraderie while evading the encroaching forces of darkness. Throughout the , the quest's progression emphasizes themes of improbable forged in chaos, with humorous detours amplifying the ridiculousness of heroic archetypes. Spanning four series, the overarching arc features escalating adventures, including the discovery and subsequent loss of the Sword of Asnagar in series 2, and in the fourth installment, the questers face further perils and a near-confrontation with Lord Darkness, but the central conflict remains unresolved, leaving a legacy of lighthearted fantasy subversion.

World of Lower Earth

Lower Earth serves as the central fictional universe in the BBC Radio 4 sitcom ElvenQuest, functioning as a parodic parallel to J.R.R. Tolkien's Middle-earth. This fantasy realm is inhabited by traditional races such as elves, dwarves, and amazons, alongside mythical creatures and magical phenomena that underpin its lore. The world operates under a system of prophecy and ancient artifacts, where epic struggles between good and evil define its historical narrative. The current era, known as the Third Age or humorously the Silver Age—"not quite golden and platinum was too expensive"—is marked by the encroaching threat of an evil empire seeking domination. An ancient central to the lore foretells the of a Chosen One destined to wield the of Asnagar, a legendary artifact said to possess the power to overthrow darkness when brandished for benevolent purposes. This historical context establishes a framework of cyclical conflicts, echoing classic fantasy sagas but infused with satirical undertones. Geographically, Lower Earth encompasses diverse terrains typical of , including dense enchanted forests, rugged mountain ranges, and scattered rural villages such as Mexigaroth. Prominent locations include the structured Kingdom, a of elven , and the foreboding Dark Fortress, stronghold of tyrannical rule. Quest-related sites like markets and amazonian enclaves further populate the landscape, serving as hubs for trade, intrigue, and cultural exchange. The realm's parodic elements exaggerate and subvert fantasy tropes for comedic effect, incorporating bureaucratic inefficiencies in governance—such as logistical management within oppressive regimes—and anachronistic intrusions that blend modern mundanity with medieval mysticism, like portals linking to contemporary locales. Magic operates through codified rules, including specific incantations and reliance on artifacts, yet frequently results in unintended, humorous malfunctions that underscore the genre's absurdities. Societal structures highlight racial dynamics, with longstanding rivalries between elves and dwarves driving tensions, often portrayed through stereotypical contrasts: elves embodying refined, archaic formality and dwarves injecting coarse, contemporary vernacular. Cultural systems vary by race, as seen in amazon tribes governed by rigorous, ritualistic customs, while elven traditions preserve knowledge in sacred tomes emphasizing life's inherent struggles. These elements, disrupted by occasional modern Earth influences, maintain a delicate balance between enchantment and everyday folly.

Characters

Main Characters

The main characters of ElvenQuest form the core of the quest party navigating the of Lower , blending archetypal fantasy roles with comedic through their exaggerated personalities and interpersonal dynamics. This ensemble drives the series' humor by contrasting Sam's modern cynicism with the earnest, trope-laden enthusiasm of his companions, while the primary provides over-the-top villainy that often backfires due to incompetence. Sam Porter, voiced by , is a misanthropic fantasy novelist from contemporary who is abruptly transported to Lower Earth and thrust into the role of . His character provides meta-commentary on fantasy clichés, frequently breaking the with sarcastic observations about quests, prophecies, and heroic tropes, which heightens the show's of the . Amis, voiced by (with James Bachman in select early episodes), is Sam's loyal pet magically transformed into a form as the prophesied "Chosen One." Retaining canine traits such as fetching objects, boundless enthusiasm for walks, and unwavering loyalty to Sam, Amis serves as the emotional center of the group, often propelling the plot through his innocent interpretations of . Vidar, voiced by , is the dim-witted Elf Lord and nominal leader of the quest party, hailing from a once-mighty elven lineage. His overly dramatic speeches and incompetent decision-making—marked by blind trust in ancient lore and frequent misadventures—contrast sharply with his self-perceived nobility, generating through his earnest but hapless attempts at heroism. Penthiselea, the fierce Princess voiced by in series 1–3 and in series 4, embodies the Amazonian as the group's primary combatant. Her comically aggressive demeanor, including a penchant for violent solutions and unyielding bravado, often escalates situations absurdly, while her strong-willed personality clashes with the party's more passive members to underscore the humor in and stereotypes. Dean, voiced by Kevin Eldon, is a sassy dwarf miner whose flamboyant and gay-coded traits subvert traditional dwarf portrayals of gruff stoicism. As the practical yet bitchy voice of the group, he delivers cutting remarks on elven pretensions and quest hardships, with his loyalty to Vidar adding layers of ironic devotion that fuel comedic tensions. Lord Darkness, voiced by Alistair McGowan, is the scheming overlord antagonist whose grandiose evil plans are repeatedly undermined by his own buffoonery and inept henchmen. Portrayed as an over-the-top villain with a casual flair for dramatic monologues, he represents the corrupt forces threatening Lower Earth, but his incompetence ensures the quest party's survival through farce rather than true peril. Throughout the series, the characters' arcs highlight thematic clashes: Sam's initial cynicism gradually tempers the group's blind adherence to fantasy conventions, fostering reluctant camaraderie, while Amis evolves from a bewildered pet into a more assertive savior figure, all without delving into specific episodic events. These broad developments amplify the by juxtaposing Sam's world-weary perspective against the unshakeable zeal of Vidar, Penthiselea, and Dean.

Recurring and Supporting Characters

Kreech, voiced by Kevin Eldon, serves as Lord Darkness's bumbling goblin henchman and self-proclaimed Right Hand of Darkness throughout the series. As a dim-witted minion whose name is a contraction of "creature," Kreech frequently delivers bad news to his master and attempts schemes that inevitably fail, providing slapstick comic relief through his clumsy loyalty and absurd mishaps. His portrayal highlights parody of classic fantasy sidekicks, with twists like slimy incompetence that amplify the show's humor, appearing in all four series for a total of 21 episodes. Chris Pavlo provides versatile voice acting as the narrator and in various recurring supporting roles, embodying fantasy archetypes such as wise wizards, orc guards, and other ensemble figures across multiple episodes. His range of silly, distinct voices for these smaller parts enhances the comedic parody of epic fantasy tropes, often underscoring ironic or chaotic interactions with the main cast without dominating the narrative. Pavlo's contributions appear prominently in Series 1 and sporadically thereafter, demonstrating the production's reliance on multifaceted audio performances. Other recurring supporting characters include elf council members, who offer comically unhelpful advice in bureaucratic debates, and goblin minions under Lord Darkness's command, depicted as a horde of equally inept underlings that bolster the antagonists' failed endeavors. Prophetic oracles, such as the Oracle encountered in quests like the search for the Sword of Asnagar, deliver backfiring prophecies with humorous irony, appearing in at least three episodes to propel plot twists through their cryptic, often counterproductive guidance. These figures evolve across series, with later installments incorporating more Earth-inspired elements into their antics, such as modern slang in goblin chatter or oracle visions referencing contemporary culture, heightening the of genre conventions.

Production

Development and Writing

ElvenQuest was created by British writers and producers Anil Gupta and Richard Pinto, who developed the concept as an original series for , emphasizing character-driven humor in a fantastical setting rather than a straightforward of J.R.R. Tolkien's . The idea originated from a brief five-line synopsis submitted to the broadcaster, which led to a commission for the first series, marking an evolution from initial pitch to a full six-episode run without a separate pilot production. Gupta and Pinto, known for their prior work on sketch shows like Goodness Gracious Me, aimed to craft a unique narrative twist by making the protagonist's pet dog the prophesied "Chosen One," setting it apart from conventional fantasy tropes. The writing process prioritized ensemble dynamics and interpersonal comedy over plot intricacies, drawing influences from satirical fantasy works such as Terry Pratchett's novels and the film , while incorporating elements of sci-fi comedies like and . This approach allowed for subtle mockery of genre clichés, including epic quests, noble warriors, and ancient prophecies, through the lens of modern intrusions like a reluctant human protagonist from contemporary . Unlike earlier radio fantasy satires such as the 1980s series Hordes of the Things, which focused on broad, episodic parodies of Tolkien-esque elements, ElvenQuest emphasized deeper character development and ongoing group interactions to sustain humor across multiple series. In a 2009 BBC Comedy Blog interview, explained the creators' intention to avoid one-dimensional stereotypes, instead using the series to explore themes of heroism and destiny with ironic detachment, ensuring the remained accessible while highlighting the absurdity of fantasy conventions. This focus on originality helped the show secure greenlighting for subsequent series, culminating in four runs broadcast between 2009 and 2013.

Casting and Recording

The casting process for ElvenQuest identified performers capable of delivering the sharp comedic timing required for the series' parody of fantasy tropes. was selected to portray the Sam Porter, a role that highlighted his signature dry and ability to convey reluctant in a dialogue-driven format. was cast as the antagonist Lord Darkness, chosen for his versatile vocal range and skill in embodying multifaceted villainy through impressions and tonal shifts. A notable cast adjustment occurred ahead of Series 4, when , who had voiced the warrior princess Penthiselea in the first three series, was replaced by due to scheduling conflicts. Recording sessions for the series were held at the BBC Radio Theatre in , with each episode typically requiring 3-4 hours of studio time to capture the ensemble performances. Sound effects played a crucial role in realizing the fantasy setting, including metallic clashes for sword fights and ethereal whooshes for magical elements, enhancing the radio format's immersive quality. The production was overseen by producers including Anil Gupta, Paul Schlesinger (Series 1), and Sam Michell (Series 2–4). One key challenge involved balancing the ensemble cast's overlapping lines in a format reliant solely on audio, addressed through structured rehearsals that incorporated light to refine timing and energy.

Broadcast History

Series Structure and Air Dates

ElvenQuest consists of four series, each comprising six 30-minute episodes, for a total of 24 episodes broadcast weekly on BBC Radio 4. The first series aired from 29 April to 3 June 2009, with episodes broadcast on Wednesdays at 18:30. Series 2 followed from 18 November to 23 December 2010, airing on Thursdays at 18:30. Series 3 ran from 17 October to 21 November 2011, scheduled on Mondays at 18:30. The final series aired from 12 February to 19 March 2013, with episodes on Tuesdays at 18:30.
SeriesAir DatesDay and TimeEpisodes
129 April – 3 June 2009Wednesdays, 18:306
218 November – 23 December 2010Thursdays, 18:306
317 October – 21 November 2011Mondays, 18:306
412 February – 19 March 2013Tuesdays, 18:306
Episodes are numbered sequentially within each series as Episode 1 through 6, with no overarching episode numbering across series. The series were produced by the , with Sam Michell serving as producer for multiple seasons. Each subsequent series builds upon the ongoing quest narrative, introducing escalating challenges and stakes for the protagonists while advancing the overall storyline. No fifth series has been announced since the conclusion of series 4 in 2013. Initially available only via live radio broadcasts on , episodes have since been repeated on and were made available as podcasts on following the 2013 finale. Episodes have also been repeated on , though availability may vary.

Series 1

The first series introduces the core quest party, consisting of reluctant human protagonist Sam Porter, elven lord Vidar, warrior princess Penthiselea, dwarf Dean, and Sam's dog Amis, who is prophesied as the Chosen One. Sam, a misanthropic fantasy novelist from our world, is unexpectedly transported through a portal to Lower Earth after being approached by the party following a book signing. The group embarks on their initial journey to locate the Sword of Asnagar, a mythical weapon needed to defeat the evil Lord Darkness, facing early comedic clashes with his bumbling henchman Kreech during rescue attempts and skirmishes. Over the six episodes, aired from April 29 to June 3, 2009, the narrative builds through episodes focused on establishing the quest's stakes, including Amis's kidnapping by Lord Darkness and consultations with the Oracle of Fenrog, who foretells Sam's death. The arc culminates in the discovery of the Sword of Asnagar, but with a twist revealing suspicions that Sam may be a traitor, setting up ongoing uncertainty.

Series 2

Series 2 delves deeper into Lower Earth's diverse territories as the Questers resume their pursuit of the Sword of Asnagar, which eludes them despite the previous season's find, leading to renewed alliances with elven and dwarven factions amid escalating threats from Lord Darkness. The six , broadcast from November 18 to December 23, 2010, feature comedic detours such as a and a "diet " where the party addresses Amis's by visiting the castle of Dietica. Key events include Sam assuming temporary of the quest, the loss of Lord Darkness's teapot and in chaotic encounters, and the group's tracking of the sword to a , where battles between intensify with humorous mishaps. The arc emphasizes the party's evolving dynamics and territorial explorations, blending epic fantasy tropes with satirical side quests that highlight their incompetence and growing bonds.

Series 3

In Series 3, the Questers encounter mid-quest challenges that test their resolve, including a twist complicating Amis's role and a betrayal subplot involving internal doubts within the group. Aired from 17 to 21 November 2011, across six episodes, the narrative focuses on captivity by the ruthless barbarian Ragnar Half-Tooth and efforts to navigate the mines of Grazak-Dun, where Dean must reconcile with his estranged father to secure aid. Lord Darkness grapples with , adding parallel comedic tension, while the party faces traps and holds that heighten the stakes toward reclaiming the sword. The season builds suspense through these obstacles, incorporating themes of family strife and prophetic ambiguity to propel the quest forward without resolving the central conflict.

Series 4

The fourth and final series escalates to a climactic journey toward the Dark Fortress, featuring final battles against Lord Darkness and a resolution of Amis's pivotal role in the prophecy. Spanning six episodes from February 12 to March 19, 2013, with titles including "Queen Eleanor," "The Magnificent Five," "The Fat Hog," "The Underworld," "The Bard," and "The Great Escape," the arc involves detours to the unpredictable kingdom of Premenstrua, a descent into the Underworld to consult Penthiselea's mother for sword-related clues, and a talent contest opportunity to assassinate Lord Darkness. The Questers ultimately discover the true Sword of Asnagar and orchestrate a great escape, culminating in humorous denouement that parodies fantasy resolutions while affirming the party's unlikely heroism.

Reception and Legacy

Critical Response

Upon its debut in 2009, ElvenQuest received positive initial reception for its clever of fantasy tropes, with selecting it as Radio Pick of the Day and highlighting the comedic premise involving a transported to a parallel universe alongside an , dwarf, and warrior. Listener feedback on the blog was overwhelmingly favorable, describing the series as "absolutely superb" and praising its spoof of , though one commenter deemed it "utterly utterly dreadful." The performances, particularly Stephen Mangan's portrayal of the reluctant hero Sam Porter, were noted for enhancing the satirical elements. Subsequent reviews maintained this enthusiasm, with a 2012 assessment from SFFaudio commending the "smartly written script and a great cast" for delivering a "wonderfully hilarious send-up of the fantasy quest story and of fantasy novels in general." A 2014 Guardian preview further affirmed its replay value, stating that the series "is always worth a repeat" due to its engaging spoof format. While isolated criticisms existed, such as the early negative listener comment, no widespread complaints about repetitive tropes emerged in contemporary coverage. The series garnered strong audience engagement on , reflected in high user ratings for its releases, averaging 4.5 out of 5 stars on Audible from over 140 reviews. It received no major award nominations, including for the BBC Audio Drama Awards, but was recognized for its contributions to radio through consistent positive mentions in media outlets. Overall, ElvenQuest is celebrated as a witty fantasy that influenced similar audio comedies with its blend of humor and genre deconstruction.

Adaptations and Publications

The radio series ElvenQuest was compiled and released as an audiobook titled Elvenquest: The Journey So Far: Series 1, 2, 3 and 4 in 2014 by BBC Audio. This edition features the original recordings of all 28 episodes from the first four series, narrated by the principal cast including Stephen Mangan as Sam Porter, Alistair McGowan as Lord Vidar, and others such as Darren Boyd and Dave Lamb. Running approximately 11 hours in length, the audiobook preserves the full production with its sound effects and music tailored for home listening. It has been positively received by listeners, earning an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 on Amazon based on over 50 reviews. A digital edition of the became available on in 2024, expanding accessibility beyond physical CDs and initial streaming platforms like Audible. These releases represent the primary post-broadcast publications, offering a complete collection of the series without additional narrative expansions or new material. As of November 2025, ElvenQuest has not been adapted into television or formats. Fan interest persists through unofficial resources, such as episode summaries and reviews hosted on the website, though no official transcripts or extensive fan-produced works have been published. No new content related to the series has emerged since its final radio broadcast in 2013.

References

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