Quarterback Keeper: 14
Edinburgh isn't so much a city, more a way of life- Ian Rankin
Tyler was up and couldn't go back to sleep. "Who the hell wakes up at 6:30 on vacation?" Tyler said.
Joe groaned, then settled back into slumber. Tyler decided that if he couldn't sleep then it was time for his favorite morning activity, wake up sex. He dove under the cover and found Joe's cock and began sucking on it.
"Tyler, I need to sleep," moaned Joe, but Tyler was having none of it. Joe was soon wide awake and stiff as a poker. Tyler reached for the Gun Oil and began to slick Joe's cock. Joe put his hand behind his head and reveled in Tyler's touch. He watched as Tyler straddled his abdomen and aligned his ass with the engorged cock. Slowly Tyler sunk onto Joe. Tyler leaned forward and kissed Joe while gently pinching his nipples. After what seemed like an eternity of sensual torture, Tyler leaned back in a position that gave the appearance of a crab. Joe smiled, Tyler must be exploring porn on the internet. Joe was captivated with Tyler's thick thighs and bulging calves as he worked to impale his ass on a throbbing cock.
Joe reached up and teased Tyler's large swinging nuts. Tyler was grinding his prostate into the helmet of Joe's cock. Soon he threw his head back and released a deep masculine groan. A jet of cum arched upward and landed at the dimple in his neck. Succeeding spurts created a bead of jizz through the canyon formed by his peck, across his washboard abs, and pooling in his naval.
Just as Joe was marveling at the flood of cum, Tyler clenched his ass and slid all the way to the base of Joe's cock. Joe's eyes rolled back and he released wave after wave of cream into the depths of Tyler's bowels. Finally, Tyler found the strength to sit up. A stream of cum ran down his torso and into Joe's pubes. The room smelled of cum and sweat. Joe pulled Tyler into a kiss then said, "I think we need a shower."
As Joe washed Tyler's back he thought to himself: I am an addict, and this kid is my drug.
When Joe and Tyler finally made it to the dining room they found Michael and Ian already seated and eating. "Good morning," Joe said with a hint of suspicion in his voice.
Michael said, "Uncle Joe, we've been good boys. Ian spent the night at his house."
Ian added, "I do odd jobs for the inn's owners, the McEvers, and they let me eat breakfast whenever I wish."
Michael looked at Tyler then said, "Of course, judging from the grin on Tyler's face, not everyone at this table has been a good boy."
"Oh, he was a very good boy," Joe said before taking a sip of coffee. Ian and Michael laughed, and Tyler's smile grew even wider.
Ian decided to start the tour of Edinburgh at Carlton Hill. Ian explained, "At over 338 feet above Edinburgh harbor the hill provides a spectacular view of the city. In addition, it is part of a World Heritage Site." Once to the summit it was easy to understand why Ian decided to start the day here.
"Edinburgh is known as the Athens of the North," Ian said. "Starting in the late 18th century the New Town portion of Edinburgh was being developed and there was a desire to hype the importance of the City by building some landmark buildings. In 1822 the Edinburgh artist Hugh William Williams--apparently his parents ran out of names-- had an exhibition where he put his watercolors of Athens next to his watercolors of Edinburgh to draw comparisons between the cities. The idea caught on and soon Edinburgh was building Greek buildings right and left. In some ways the title makes sense because the philosophers Dugald Stewart, David Hume, and Adam Smith all taught at Edinburgh University."
Joe was impressed with Ian's knowledge of Edinburgh's history and culture. He was also impressed with the young man's confidence and poise. Then, he remembered what Ian had said the day before about likely not scoring high enough to get into university. Joe thought to himself: it's too bad this kid isn't in the U.S. Our university system is much less reliant on test scores for entry. Gradually a thought formed in Joe's mind, and he began to smile.
The next stop on the tour was Edinburgh Castle. Standing on Castle Rock, it has been attacked 26 times and holds the distinction of being the most besieged place in Great Britain and one of the most attacked in the world. Ian peppered his history tour with a mixture sex, intrigue, and gore. Joe was certain this kid could easily teach a jock off class at NOSU.
After leaving Edinburgh Castle, Joe announced that he had made a reservation for afternoon tea. Tyler rolled his eyes and said, "Afternoon tea? Isn't that what old ladies do?"
"Just for that," Joe said, "you're sleeping on the floor."
"No, wait, what I meant was, isn't that what sophisticated men of the world do," Tyler said.
"Now that's better."
Michael looked at Ian and said, "Wow, talk about penis whipped."
Tyler smiled and said, "Yes I am."
What Joe had made reservations for was the Red Bus Bistro. Rather than a traditional tea house, afternoon tea was served on a double decker bus as it traveled through historic Edinburgh. For the boys, Joe had booked the regular afternoon tea, but for Tyler and himself he booked the Gin Tour. Tyler had expected tea with a couple of cookies, or as Ian informed him, biscuits. However when a cake stand of scones with fresh whipped cream and jam, finger sandwiches, Scottish smoked salmon blinis, mini quiches, along with a selection of petit fours, mini Victoria sponges, and meringues were set on the table his enthusiasm for afternoon tea greatly increased.
"Ian," Joe said, "I was very impressed with your knowledge of Edinburgh history and culture, and your presentation style was remarkable."
"I agree," Tyler said.
"Thank you for being so kind," Ian replied.
"Oh Ian, stop with the modesty," Michael said. "You are a great tour guide. Everytime you take me somewhere, I learn a ton. Uncle Joe and Tyler are both history teachers, so if they were impressed, then it was good."
Ian blushed, and Michael gave his hand a slight squeeze. Michael continued, "I keep telling Ian that he is a natural born teacher, but he won't believe me."
"I agree with Michael," Joe said. "The way you gave assistance on the golf course yesterday, was clear and very helpful. You have a knack for communicating instructions and information."
"Have you thought about becoming a teacher?" Tyler asked.
"On occasion, but like I told Joe yesterday, I don't have the scores to get into the University. Plus, right now we don't really have the money for another of us to be at university."
Sensing that the topic was uncomfortable, Joe decided to change it. "So, what's next on the agenda?
Michael said "We thought it would be fun to do some shopping and exploration in the Grassmarket and Victoria Street. There are a lot of interesting shops and some people think J.K Rowling based Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books on Victoria Street."
"After that," Michael looked at Ian for backup, "we'd like to go to the Planet Bar and Kitchen for dinner and dancing."
"That sounds like a great idea," Tyler chimed in.
Joe knew he was out voted and figured he might as well just suck it up and say yes.
The grassmarket was once a horse and cattle market. It was also notorious as a site for public hangings. "Probably the oddest hanging to take place at Grassmarket was Maggie Dickson" Ian said. "In 1724 Maggie was hanged for murder. Her family came to claim her body for a decent burial; but they ended up having to fight the medical students from the university to get Maggie. On the way home with Maggie, the family decided to stop for some refreshment. After all, any Scot knows the thirst a good fight can bring on. When they finally decided it was time to start for home, they heard the coffin lid rattling. When they opened it, they found Maggie still alive. By the next morning, she had recovered enough to walk home. Half-Hangit Maggie, as she came to be known, lived another forty years."
Michael had grown up with Harry Potter, so he had to go into all the shops catering to fans of the books and movies. In one shop Michael and Ian were playing with some wands when a little girl squealed, "Look mom, it's Fred and George Weasley." Of course, then Michael had to buy the wands.
Joe wandered into one of the whiskey shops and asked if they shipped to the United States. The proprietor said he could and asked Joe what he would like.
"I would like six very nice bottles of scotch shipped to me a week before Christmas. Do you have something that would go well with the holidays?"
"We have AnCnoc 24, a single malt from the Knockdhu distillery. It has notes of Winter spices, citrus fruits, honey, vanilla, and leather. It is, however, a bit pricey. I have a bottle open for tasting. Joe took a sip, smiled, and said yes this one and five more of similar price and quality. Joe handed over his American Express Platinum card. One of the perks of being on the Sinclair Board of Directors. Joe thought: well that takes care of some Christmas shopping, although Bill would probably be just as happy with a case of Lone Star.
As the four walked up the Royal Mile they came to Gordon Nicolson Kiltmakers. Michael wanted to see what the shop was all about. Inside, a clerk asked if he could help. "Oh, we're just American's looking around; well except for that one," Joe pointed to Ian. "He's a true Scott."
The clerk turned to Ian and asked, "What clan?"
Ian laughed and said, "Ramsay's sir, the poor side of the family."
Michael jumped in and said, "Uncle Joe and I are Sinclairs, sir, and Tyler is a Simmons."
"Well" said the clerk, "If you are interested in ever ordering kilts, we would be glad to serve you. Let me show you the family tartans that we can order. This is the red of the Sinclair and the blue of the Ramsey. Simmons is not really a Scottish name. Where are you family from Mr. Simmons."
"Ireland, Sir."
"My, I haven't heard so many sirs since my days in the army. Well, Mr. Simmons the Scottish Register of Tartans actually has a tartan for Fitzsimmons of native or Irish descent. That includes the derivatives of the name like Simmons."
The guys split up to look at the shop. As Joe walked around he heard Ian say to Michael, "Someday, I am going to have the money to buy a kilt like these."
After exploring the store, it was time to head to the Planet Bar and Kitchen for dinner. The Planet Bar is Edinburgh's longest running gay bar. As they were walking up, Tyler whispered into Joe's ear, "Can the boy's get into this place." Joe responded, "Yep, the Scot's are far more enlightened than we are back home."
After ordering food, Michael and Ian hit the dance floor. It was clear to anyone with eyes that the two lads were into each other, and for those who didn't have eyes the drag queen who was the DJ offered up her own commentary and the boys ate it up. When the food finally came, the boys returned to the booth hot and sweaty.
"Whew, do you smell that?" Tyler said.
"Yeah," Joe said, "Definitely the scent of boy: sweat and hormones." Michael and Ian smiled.
After they finished eating, the boys dragged Joe and Tyler onto the dance floor. Eventually the boys move close and Ian said, "Whew do you smell that?"
"Yeah," Michael said. "Definitely the smell of old man: Ben-Gay and hormones."
Joe and Michael burst into laughter.
When Ian was dropped off at his home, Joe asked, "Will we see you tomorrow?"
Ian smiled, "If it is alright with you, I would very much like that."
Joe laughed, "I doubt Michael would be much fun if you didn't join us. We'll see you tomorrow."
As they were driving off, Michael said, "Uncle Joe, I think you and Tyler would miss Ian almost as much as I would."
"I think you're right," Joe said.
The next morning when Joe and Tyler arrived for breakfast, neither Michael or Ian was anywhere to be seen. Eventually the two walked in, but Ian was clearly upset and Michael was trying to cheer him up.
When they sat down Joe looked at Ian and asked, "Are you okay?"
"My father sort of upended my brothers and me last night. One of his regimental buddies offered him a position managing an apartment complex. This is a great opportunity for him. He will get an apartment, a regular salary, and decent hours. All things life as a farmer don't really provide. Plus Eric is ready to take over the farm."
"But you're not sure where you fit into all of this?" said Joe.
"Not really. The apartment complex is in Glasgow. So if I lived with him, I would have to change schools and find a new job. However, I am ninety percent certain that the minute dad moves out Melinda will move in. I like her and all, but I just think it will be awkward, especially when Evan goes back to the University in the Fall. I just wish I was finished with school, eighteen, and able to live on my own."
Michael gave Ian a hug, and he and Tyler took turns trying to cheer Ian up. Joe seemed deep in thought.
The day's activity was a boat tour on the Firth of Forth and a stop on Inchcolm Island. As the boat pulled away from the dock the mood lightened and Ian and Michael seemed determined to have a good day. Ian was back to his role as guide, teacher, and cultural ambassador. Joe continued to be impressed with Ian's natural ability to hold an audience with information and humor. Soon other passengers were ignoring the boat's recorded commentary and listening to Ian instead.
"The Firth of Forth is known for three bridges that demonstrate three centuries of bridge building technology. The oldest is simply known as the Forth Bridge. Completed in 1890, it is considered the world's first major steel structure and is a World Heritage Site. Still today, it is the longest cantilever bridge in the world," Ian said. "The bridge is 2,467 meters long, and still carries 200 trains each day."
Tyler leaned in and whispered to Joe, "I don't want to look stupid, but how long is it in American?"
Joe replied, "A little over a mile and a half. Oh, and you don't look stupid; you look fucking hot." Tyler couldn't help but let out a little giggle, and Joe rolled his eyes and smiled.
On the Island of Inchcolm they explored the 12th century Inchcolm Abbey and the fortifications built during World Wars I and II. The gun emplacements and ammunition tunnel was a stark reminder that the UK was on the front line in both World Wars.
A Plan Takes Shape
Back at the dock, Tyler said, "I'm hungry."
Joe mocked, Breaking News: Tyler Simmons is hungry. Film at 11." Of course, Joe didn't mention he was also hungry. They decided on Fish and Chips at the Ferry Tap. While waiting on the food to arrive, it was decided to go back to Glenarch House for the afternoon and then head over to the Ramsay's for dinner.
Once back at the inn, Tyler opted to take a nap; the boys decided to walk around the property; leaving Joe free to make a few calls back to Oklahoma.
An hour later Tyler woke up as Joe was finishing his last call.
"That would be great," Mindy said, "Michael already thinks you walk on water Joe, so if you can make this happen you will be his super hero."
"Well that's a bit of pressure. What do you think Charles will say?"
"I am pretty sure he will be on board, but if not, a week of having to take care of Charlie Jr. by himself will bring him around," Mindy said with a devious tone.
"I am sure that is right." replied Joe. "I will let you know how things go tonight. Goodbye."
"Goodbye, Joe."
At the Simmons farm Eric, Melinda, and Evan had prepared a picnic dinner. Ian made introductions. When he got to his father, Ian said, "Everyone this is my father Andrew Ramsay. Dad, this is Joe Bartlett, Tyler Simmons, and Michael Sinclair."
Andrew shook everyone's hand and said, "So Joe, Ian tells me you are part of the Sinclair clan."
"Yes, My father's family is English, but my mother's family is Scottish. Of course along the way we've also picked up a bit of German and Dutch. The truth is we are just American mutts."
"Well we like all dogs in this family," Andrew said, "except, French poodles. Too snooty." Andrew then turned to Tyler, "My this one is a big boy. Careful Eric and Evan don't recruit you for their Rugby team." Then Andrew took a good look at Michael, and then Ian, and then back at Michael. He grabbed Michael into a hug and whispered in his ear, "Be good to my boy." Michael nodded.
Eric said, "We'd like to welcome friends from America. On the table there are some traditional Scottish dishes like Scottish Eggs, Black Pudding Sausage Rolls, and Clootie Dumpling, however we have also made sandwiches and salads that are more friendly to the Yank palette. Please don't feel like you have to try everything, and if you do try something and don't like it, don't think you have to finish it. Also, there is plenty of beer to wash the food down."
Tyler, Eric, and Evan hit it off and spent much of the meal comparing American football and rugby. Andrew and Joe talked about politics, and Michael and Ian chatted with Melinda. After dessert, Ian brought out his guitar and played for Michael and anyone else who wanted to listen.
Joe said to Andrew, "Michael is very talented and has a wonderful voice."
"Yes, music is his gift. He also plays the pipes, the piano, and various woodwinds in the youth symphony. I occasionally hear him writing a song, but he rarely shares them. I think he feels they aren't good enough because he hasn't had the opportunity for formal training."
"Ian told us you have an opportunity to change careers. That sounds like a good deal."
"Well, for me and Eric it is good. I get a good position and Eric gets control of the farm. It doesn't make much difference for Evan because he is set on his way to a law career. But Ian is the one who doesn't make out so well. If he moves with me to Glasgow, everything he knows will change. If he stays here he will be living under his brother's roof, and I don't imagine it to be long before Eric and Melinda start a family. So, I am concerned for him."
Joe looked at the ground for a minute, made a decision, then said Andrew can we take a bit of a walk. When Joe and Andrew returned to the house the "kids" were still on the porch listening to Ian play and chatting. Joe said, "We've got a long day ahead of us tomorrow. The plan is to be at the Antler Cafe in Newtonmore by 9 o'clock. We plan to do some hiking before heading up to Inverness and then on to Wick. Ian, if you would like, you are welcome to join us."
Ian looked at his father and Andrew nodded his approval. Then Ian looked at Michael and the two couldn't contain their grins. "Well," Joe said, "I take that for a yes. We will be here around 6 o'clock tomorrow morning to pick you up. Pack for four days."
Back at the Glenarch, Tyler climbed into bed and spooned into Joe. He put his arm around Joe and said, "You are so sexy when you are scheming."
Joe reached behind and took hold of Tyler's hard cock and said, "I don't think I'm the only one who has a scheme."
"Oops, busted," Tyler said as he began to kiss the back of Joe's neck.
The next morning, Ian was waiting on the front porch when the gang pulled up. They weren't but ten minutes down the road before everyone but Joe was asleep. Well, it's a good thing I have my coffee, Joe thought. When he looked in the rearview mirror he saw Michael and Ian were leaning on each other as they slept.
Right at 9 o'clock Joe pulled the car into the Newtonmore. "Well boys, let's get some breakfast." They ordered pancakes, bacon, and coffee. Cairngorms National Park is different from most American national parks. While American national parks were created to protect an untouched environment, Cairngorms included a variety of natural and human environments, thus a number of towns were located within the park's boundaries.
Like most towns in the park, Newtonmore had developed a series of trails with the town at the center to accommodate the visitors. The guy's decided to hike the six mile Wild Cat Trail that circles Newtonmore. The trail ran along the Spey River before branching off to follow the River Calder. Joe noticed the enthusiasm Tyler had for hiking and made a note to take him backpacking in the Rockies. Eventually the trail parted with the river and provided a view of the stony mountains that characterize Cairngorms National Park. Periodically they would come across gates since the trail crossed pasture lands of the local farmers. Eventually, it led to the Highland Folk Museum. The museum documented life in the Scottish highland from the mid-1700s to the mid-1900s and was Britain's first open-air museum.
It wasn't until late afternoon that the hikers were back in the car and on the way to Inverness. Joe asked whether anyone was hungry. The answer was an overwhelming yes. Just outside of Inverness Joe pulled into a promising looking restaurant. Inside they ordered food and beer.
While they waited on their food, Joe said, "Ian, I've been thinking about how your life will change when your father moves to Glasgow to take his new job. I know you will either have to move with him and change schools and find a new job there, or you will live with Eric and likely Melinda. I have made a number of phone calls to people I know, and I would like to put a third option on the table. You can come live in Salt Fork, Oklahoma with Tyler and me. The reason I am bringing this up now is that if you accept my offer, we will have to make some quick decisions. Also this affects both Michael and Tyler, so I want them to hear this at the same time. I have talked to your father and Michael's mother, and they have agreed to what I am proposing."
Michael burst into a smile, but Ian was in a bit of shock.
Joe gave a minute for the possibility to sink in before continuing. "I have talked to the high school principal where Tyler and I teach, and he has agreed to admit you as a student. He and the counselor will work out a credit transfer that should allow you to graduate on schedule this year. The advantage of graduating from Salt Fork High School is that you will be eligible to enroll in an Oklahoma university, if that is something you would like to do. I have a friend at one of the universities that, when I told him about you, is certain you will have no problem qualifying for admission."
"Michael's mother and I agree that the Salt Fork and Tulsa are close enough for the two of you to build your friendship, but distant enough that you keep some perspective on your relationship. So, before I go any further, is this something you are interested in possibly doing?"
Ian looked at Michael who was struggling not to get his hopes too high, then Ian smiled and said, "Yes sir, I think this is the option I need." That was all Michael could take, tears started streaming down his cheeks and he grabbed Ian and gave him a big kiss. Joe noticed that Tyler wiped away a tear as well.
Next Joe asked, "So Ian and Michael, do you have any questions?"
Ian suddenly got quiet and said, "This is a wonderful offer, and I really want to accept, but I don't have much money and my dad can't really afford...."
Tyler broke in, "Ian, I understand where you are coming from. Neither I nor my mother have much money, and it was really hard to accept things from Joe that I couldn't afford and know that I could never pay him back or give a gift of reciprocal value. However, I had to get over that if I wanted to have something far more valuable: Joe."
Now it was Joe's turn to wipe away a tear, and give Tyler a big kiss.
When he was back in control of his emotions Joe continued. "However, there are a couple of issues we have to resolve to make this work. First, I have a two bedroom apartment. Ian, do you mind sharing a room with Tyler?"
Tyler quickly picked up on Joe's game and said, "I have a better solution."
"You do, pray tell what is that?"
"I can move into your room."
"Oh, I guess that would work....I could get a couple of twin beds....or maybe some bunk beds.... Of course then we have to decide who's on top and who's on the bottom... I guess we could flip..."
Tyler, Michael, and Ian were in stitches as Joe pondered his mock quandary. Then Joe said, "The other problem is that we have to get Ian and Tyler back to Salt Fork sooner rather than later, and that means cutting the vacation short. Is that alright with you Michael?"
"Absolutely, Michael almost screamed.
"Michael's mother already has the Sinclair attorneys working on expedited paperwork and Ian's father is giving me guardianship until he turns eighteen in five months, so getting Ian into the country should be easy. After all it's been over 200 years since the UK last invaded the United States; unless of course you count the Beatles."
"Who are they?" Tyler asked with a smug grin.
"Just for that you're sleeping in the car tonight."
The food arrived and everyone took a few minutes to stuff down some much needed nourishment. Joe finally continued, we'll spend a couple of nights in Inverness, go see Loch Ness, and then head back to Dalkeith to get Ian packed up. I will call Andrew to see if he can get paperwork from Ian's school. The Sinclair jet is coming in four days to pick us up and whatever of Ian plans to take with him."
They continued to make plans and Michael started a list on his iPhone. When dessert was served, Joe said, "I almost forgot. I have two hotel rooms reserved for tonight and tomorrow. The problem is I promised Michael's mother that he gets the sex talk before things go to far. So when we get to the hotel, Tyler will be having a talk with the two of you about the birds and the bees."
Tyler spit the coffee he was drinking all over Michael and began to choke. "What?! Why am I giving the talk?"
"Because I thought it would be good practice for your pre-game pep talks. You know--play hard, play smart, play safe. Now go get em boys!"
Ian and Michael couldn't stop laughing as Tyler turned bright red.
Built in 1856, The Royal Highland Hotel was a Victorian Era railroad station hotel and a British classic. The lobby with its grand staircase was a throwback to the Golden Era of the British Empire. After checking in, Joe handed Michael and Ian their room key and said, "When you are ready, come down to Tyler and my room." The boys nodded.
After a half hour there was a quiet knock on the door and Joe opened it to let in two apprehensive young men. After they sat down on the bed, Tyler said, "When Joe joked this evening that I would be giving you guys the talk I was caught off guard, but I have thought about it, and have decided I do have some things I would like to tell you."
"Before I met Joe I had very little experience with guys. I had sex a couple of times with girls to keep up my locker room image, but I would describe myself as a gay virgin until recently. So, what I know, Joe has taught me. Let me just say for the record, Joe is a wonderful teacher and an amazing lover."
Now it was Joe's turn to blush.
Tyler continued, "Let me start by telling you the rules that Joe laid out for our sexual relationship. Rule one: Always remember that I love you. Rule two: If it is painful or is something you are not ready to do, we will stop and do something else. Rule three: porn isn't real; what we do is. Rule four: making love is an act of sharing, but sometimes it is okay to be a bit selfish. Rule five: if you're not in the mood, it is alright to say: no. Rule six: sex doesn't always have to end in anal. There are lots of ways to share and pleasure each other. Rule seven: Always remember that I love you."
"The last thing I want to say is that we did not have anal sex until I could say out loud to Joe that is what I wanted. That was frustrating. I just wanted Joe to take me like you see in the movies. That way I wouldn't really have to consciously decide that anal sex is what I wanted. But he wouldn't let me take the easy way out. Then when I did tell him what I wanted, he had a box of condoms ready, but he also had his STI report to show me. It made me feel so loved knowing that he wanted what I wanted, that he planned for it, and that he waited until I was ready."
Joe grabbed Tyler in a hug, kissed him, and said, "I love you?"
Joe then looked at Michael and Ian, "I can't add anything to that. If you ever have questions, ask us or someone who can give you solid, fact based answers, because the only thing worse than no information is misinformation." Joe reached into his suitcase, pulled out a new box of condoms and handed them to Michael. "I don't want you to feel pressured to use these tonight, but when you are both ready, please use these until you both are tested."
Michael and Tyler went back to their own room. When the door closed, Joe grabbed Tyler and said, "Do you want to fuck?"
Tyler replied, "More than you know," and turned off the lights.
Thank you for reading "Quarterback Keeper." I very much appreciate the comments and words of encouragement I have received from readers. I also have another story, "Tough Love in Kansas City" going on nifty.org. If you would like to be included in updates on my stories, send me an email.
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