la carestia

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Disclaimer: NARUTO 1999 by Masashi Kishimoto & Shueisha Inc. | Fractured Tales Project 2010 | 218

But the world fell quiet, and she was left there, staring at Sasuke as he walked

away, so alone and so despondent and so wrong.

Then, realization struck her

She could try.

She wasnt sure if she was strong enoughthe task just seemed so

monumentalbut she at least had to try.

She was ready. It was time.

Here, idyllic afterlifeit meant nothing to her.

She would leave it, leave it and not look back, no matter how difficult the road

ahead would be.

She would transcend, comfort be damned.

It would hurt

But she would do it

For him.

For Sasuke-kun

***

And then she grew wings.

L a Carest ia

A nd when he opened the third seal, I heard the beast say, Come and see. And Ibeheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.

Book of the Revelations

Chapter Six

I.

July 23, 2011 Anno Domini

15,000 AND RISING: WHITE DEATH PLAGUE


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HAKU MOMOCHI, at the young age of 13, had succumbed to the deadly grip of

strain SS-6975 known as the White Death that had also claimed thousands of lives in a

span of half a year. The incidence of this disease, which could be passed through droplets

and inoculation, had risen to pandemic proportions, affecting 30 countries in a span of

two months.

The spread of White Death occurred in Saint Wendel Hospital, Alchsbach,Germany. The hospital confined two civilians, Maito Gai and Yakushi Kabuto, both


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Japanese immigrants, who suddenly complained of migraines after a horse-back riding

session. After a brief consultation and series of laboratory tests, compulsory

implementation of quarantine followed when massive bleeding in different mucosalorifices suddenly occurred. After a few days, their internal organs were found

PLANE CRASH KILLS SARUTOBI, CREW IN APPENNINES

DOCTOR SARUTOBI ASUMA BME, MD. died yesterday in a plane crash nearthe edges of Genoa Gulf, located at the Pyrnes-Orientales, France. When investigators

examined the site, the planes aircrafts black box was said to be missing; and foul playwas suspected. The Police said they had already apprehended three suspects, but refused

to disclose further information.

The 78 year old CEO and founder of the Sarutobi Pharmaceuticals was the lead

researcher and developer for the vaccines of SS-6975 strain, The White Death

***

He sat idly on the cold basalt, back leaning against the even bricks as

mismatched eyes looked upon the highly revered Caput Mundi, where even now, at the

very precipice of cultured humanity, it still loomed over the sleeping world, unknowingly

dark and powerful.

It was still as resplendent as ever, ageless and incomparable, this eternal city,

staring at the blanket of smog that covered the metropolis. The dark cloud hovering over

it was so thick that the tips of the sixty four colonnades were barely visible and the

central obelisk was the one that pierced it. It made the city seem more ominous than

usual, more deadly, more depraved, as if it was made of shadows and shades and nothing

else.

He shifted, the granite biting the skin of his nape. And the awareness of how

rare this would be, to soak in the image of skylights and dark waters, glinting innocently,

filled him with a sense of elation. His contributions would be finished soon. The fruits

of his efforts would

An angel once appeared on the castle roofs, the trespasser started, with a

tinkling laugh. He flashed a sword of fire to announce the end of a plague. Ironic, to

meet you here, isnt it,Kakashi?

At the sound of his name, he sat up and looked at the intruder. Nobody spoke

his name with that much familiarity, except forof course, Mikoto, who was now sitting

over the ledge in a white knee-length dress as she swayed her bare feet, gazing at him

with those wide gray eyes, like the personification of innocence, of purity.

Hypocrite.

She was a sham, a sham he used to love.


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He no longer felt anything for this viper but disdain, a burning hatred, well-

hidden, yes, but still as strong as ever. And it would never be quenched. Never, not after

what she did. There would never be any forgiveness forPandora, the first woman intheir order, who was ecstatically curious to open the box of ills, releasing every kind of

horror in this world. Sarutobi and Jiraiyahis colleagues, friends, almost fatherly

figureswere the ones who tried to stop it, but it was futile as it was orders from the

immortal above.

Mikoto might be playing the minority in this so called divine-plan, but she wasunrepentant for starting the end of time.

Still, he could not deny that she looked as beautiful as ever. Not even pregnancy

had marred her looks.

Thats only a myth.

You dont need to be wary of me. I came in peace, her whisper was breathy,

patient and empathic. He was your mentor. Surely you feel a twinge of guilt.

It seemed as if she could read his thoughts as she gave him a knowing smile,

before gesturing to the little bundle she held in her arms.

She held a frail looking infant with a patch of black hair. As the tiny fist was

being suckled, twin eyes of jet black stared naively at him. The mere macabre image of a

dead innocent was all he could think of to keep himself from slaughtering the child thenand there, ending the sorry chain of events.

Trying to smother the impulse, he stood up and did not even bother to confirm

her satisfied expression. Instead, he gazed at the angelic structures that carried nails,

thorn crowns and whips, alight in unearthly iridescence.

Of course I do, he said after a long pause. In fact, Im going to his grave this

afternoon. Doctor Namikaze and his wife will be there at 1 pm. Do you want to come?

Ah, the childless couple?

There was a pleased lilt when she mentioned them, as if there was a clandestine

arrangement made especially for them. A pity that theyll have to wait for five more

years before their wish comes true, in the expense of their lives anddear me, are you

trying to change thno, I wont call it changing the topic. A pale finger waggled, as ifadmonishing a wayward brat, almost luminescent in the darkest of evenings. Youre just

oversimplifying it. Dont think I dont know what youre up to. Your emotions run

deeper than that.

She was smiling at him playfully, deceivingly pure, and yet, with that simple

sentence, she sent him a very important message: you cannot lie to me. As it was, he

couldnt help but return her smile with his own sly grin.

Fiat iustitia et pereat mundus.


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His own voice sounded remote to him. Speaking in Latin always made him too

aware of his status, his profession, his mask, his own part in this grim charade that would

ultimately lead to the worlds

There you go again, hiding behind your scholarly Latin phrases. She laughed,

her voice tinkling like chimes on a windy night. Explain it to me. Im not quite as well-

versed in Latin as the most erudite, Kakashi.

Im just saying that I did what had to be done, he said as he turned away from

her, and he wondered whether it was possible to believe ones own lie. It would certainlybe easier.

(Let there be justice, though the world perish.)

How awfully appropriate, Mikoto remarked contemplatively.

Kakashi said nothing, the conversation ending as his companion turned her

attention to the infant who was just beginning to stir. Silence engulfed them for a while,

broken only by the infants weak crying.

He takes after Fugaku. He tried to keep the bitterness out of his remark.

No, she said, her long spindly fingers tickling the infants stomachshe

reminded him of the witches in fairytales, those demon females that devoured children.

He watched her in the corner of his eye, and he could barely suppress his shudder at thewords which she uttered in the lowest of whispers. They were almost inaudible, but they

were deafening in their truth,

Hes mine.

The sound of a shattering wail filled the air then, disrupting the unusual stillness.

The boy was hungry, dark head tossing and turning on his mothers bosom in

disdain.

Kakashi noticed, but he knew it would be futile to remind Mikoto.

She would not feed the child. Notyet.

II.

August 11, 2019 Anno Domini

WAR, JAPAN FINALLY CONQUERS WESTERN UNION

OSLO, NORWAYwas the last Scandinavian city to fall as General Sai of theImperial Japanese Army invaded Europe. Troops marched on the ruins of the dilapidated

Oslotrikken with many of the wounded rounded up by Japanese soldiers.


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Many countries, after witnessing the destruction caused by the Japanese

Vermillion, an encapsulated nuclear head

***

The eight-year old Uchiha Sasuke stood over an open grave, mentally

calculating its dimensions, sixfeet in length, six feet in height, six

You shouldnt stand too close to the edge, you know.

If he heard the words, he gave no indication.

Father Kakashi said that

I dont care about what Kakashi said, he cut her off rudely, with the faintest

trace of loathing. He wished she would just leave him be. Kakashi had introduced them

both earlier that day, and if his initial judgment of her personality was right, then the

chances of her just leaving him alone were close to nil.

As it was, she only moved closer to him and stood by his side.

Without looking at him, she spoke, Yeah, well, neither do I.

As if proving her claim, she moved closer to the edge, sat down, and let her feet

dangle. Father Kakashi saw me doing this earlier, and he got really mad, she said

offhandedly, trying to sound nonchalantly.For a moment, it seemed like he would lapse into another silence.

Theyre going to bury my mother here this afternoon. He pointed to another

open grave a few feet away, My father, there.

For no reason that her childish logic could possibly comprehend, fear gripped

her.

She stood up abruptly and backed several steps away from the grave.

You Sasuke craned his neck to look at her then, and in a disdainful tone,

are annoying.

It had occurred to her, belatedly, that what she did might have been a little bit

rude. But before she could explain or even utter a quick apology, he had already walked

away. And all she could do was watch his back.

***

Haruno Sakura was not one for watching arguments.

In fact, she would much rather be miles away from one. She wanted peace,

peace and harmony andokay, so she just did not want to be punished.

Kakashi sat on the tall cushioned chair behind his desk, while Sasuke was on the

stiff wooden chair designated for guests, or more commonly, for errant students. Sakura

was off to a corner watching them, hoping that neither would take notice of her.


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No.

She groaned at the mulish refusal, and wished, not for the first time that day, that

the boy would just give in and, more importantly, not relay the incident that happened

earlier. Father Kakashi would be mad if he found out that she had gone back to the

empty graves.

Sasuke, I fail to see how you have any say in the matter.

I am not staying in the same roof as her. Sakura visibly flinched at the fingerthat was hatefully pointed at her.

Kakashi raised a fine eyebrow, but did not spare Sakura a glance. Instead, the

priest and headmaster of the Catholic school just stared straight into the boys eyes,

intimidating and daunting. Silently, Sakura marveled at how Sasuke didnt even flinch.

She had seen other boys in his position, and all of them wouldve succumbed to Kakashi

by now. Sasuke only met Kakashis stare with his own glare, and Sakura thought that he

was either very brave or very stupid.

And why not? Kakashi said as he leaned back into his chair. His voice

sounded cool, almost amused, but Sakura knew him well enough to know that he was

quickly losing patience.

Because

She squirmed in her ruffled black dress, the one she had worn to the funeral, as

Sasuke turned to look at her. She sent Sasuke a pleading look, but he only gave her a

scathing glare in return.

Because? Kakashi probed, effectively regaining Sasukes attention.

Because shes annoying! Besides, I have my own house, my parents house. I

belong there, not here! I have to oversee the whole estate

She sighed in relief. For a while there, she thought he would say she

desecrated my parents grave or something equally damning. However, her relief was

short-lived when she heard Kakashi speak.

Your parents entrusted you to me. I have complete control of your estates until

you turn 18. You can resume living there when youre old enough. For now, you have

to accept your fate. Resist and I will see you punished severely.

The words were said nonchalantly but with a steely edge, and nobody in the

room doubted the truth of his statement, not even for one moment.

For your bull-headedness and also for you to have an inkling of what awaits

you if you continue to be stubborn, you wont have dinner tonight, nor breakfast

tomorrow. I will allow you to eat only if you promise me your full obedience. This isnt

your territory, Uchiha Sasuke, and you are not master of this household. I am your

superior here andI do nottolerate insubordination.


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Sakuras eyes widened, thoroughly surprised. She had never known Kakashi to

mete out such a severe punishment, especially for a child who just lost his parents. She

knew him as a rather lenient guardian, a kind priest who didnt place much stock on harsh

discipline. In fact, he was one of the laxest people she had known. And this harshness

was so uncharacteristic of Kakashi that she did not know what to think of it. Sasukes

offense was not really that serious. She had done far worse things, and the worst Kakashi

had made her do was to clean the shelves on the library. And even then, he stopped her

halfway so that they could enjoy the afternoon soap operas they watched together.

Wanting to stand up for Sasuke but too afraid of this change in her mentor,

Sakura kept silent. She watched as Sasukes face contorted into anger, completely

devoid of fear.

Both of you are dismissed.

She saw Sasuke gritted his teeth and clenched his fists before turning around and

storming out of the room, head still held high. She knew it would take a long time before

he would break and surrender his pride. And it was at that moment that she understood

the true meaning of guilt.

She followed him soon after, hastily and clumsily walking towards the door.

She even bumped the pillar holding the previous headmaster Sarutobis bust along the

way, and the lack of the usual admonition from Kakashi made her even more

uncomfortable. Closing the door slowly as she went out, she only caught a glimpse ofKakashi rubbing his temples in a despondent way.

At the corner of her eyes, she saw Sasuke disappear around the bend of the

corridor.

He would grow hungry tonight, she thought, and the wave of guilt that assaulted

her was overwhelming in its intensity.

***

Sakura flinched as the wooden floors creaked under her weight. Never had the

schools corridors seemed more ominous to her, the stone walls seemed to want to

swallow her, and shadows seemed to keep darting around her. Still, she crept on

determinedly, trying her best to steady the trembling of her hands, making the china she

held rattle.

Finally, she reached her destination. She balanced the cup she brought in one

hand and reached out for the door knob. However, just inches away, she heard

movements inside the room. She bit her lip, hesitant. She thought he was asleep, that she

could leave the food on his bedside and leave without him knowing.

She retracted her hand and wondered if she should just go. Maybe she wasnt

welcome. Maybe he was angry. Maybe

You might as well come in.


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The voice startled her, and she almost dropped the platter and the cup that she

was holding. Ah well, no use turning back now, she thought. Steadying herself and

taking a shaky breath, she reached for the door and opened it.

How-How did you know?

I saw your shadow under the door. Also, you were being noisy.

For a few seconds, she stood there and stared at him, trying to see if he was

angry. Sakura noticed how he seemed preoccupied, somehow, and she realized whywhen she saw him crouch at the corner of the room.

What have you got there?

For a moment, he didnt speak, then

My kitten well, what used to be my kitten, anyway.

Sakura placed the platter and cup on his desk and went to him. She peered

behind his back and saw a black kitten lying on a bunch of rags. It looked to be sleeping,

so Sakura reached out to stroke its fur.

Dont, Sasuke said, his tone oddly gentle, though the hand clasping her wrist

was not. Its dead.

Ohwhy?For a while, Sasuke didnt seem inclined to answer. And the silence, for Sakura,

was oppressive.

Dont we all ask that?

Sakura cleared her throat, not really knowing what to say. She looked at the

kitten once more, and took in its emaciated appearance, how its belly seemed to curve in,

how its ribs stuck out conspicuously. She slowly realized how the kitten died and felt a

stab of guilt.

Im sorry, she muttered, her voice sounding weak and distant.

Sasuke just shrugged and wrapped the kittens corpse with a blanket carefully.

He put it aside and turned around to face her.

Well?

Sakura cocked her head to the side and furrowed her brows, her mouth set in a

confused pout.

Why are you here?

O-Oh! That! Iuhm, look, I know you hate me. But I understand that its my

fault youre being punished and I know Im horrible for not owning up to what I did

andwell, lets just say Im feeling very guilty. She glanced at him to gauge his


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reaction, and seeing his indifferent pose, she hastily added, So I brought you some

food, gesturing to the food on his desk.

When he remained silent, still looking at her, she felt compelled to expound

further, Its been two days since that fight you had with Father Kakashi, and I still

havent seen you eat, so I thought that maybe you were hungry, and

I dont want it.

I thought that maybe sincewha-what?

I said. The bite made her flinch. I dont want it.

II dont understand.

I dont expect you to.

She wondered if, perhaps, the hunger had addled his brain.

Arent you Her words were careful, curious. Hungry?

Again, Sasuke shrugged.

Isnt everyone?

She watched him then, her brows furrowed in confusion. Sakura didnt

understand why his answers always had to be so cryptic.What do you mean?

I meant exactly what I said. Everyones hungry. His tone was bored, as if he

had expected nothing more than ignorance from her.

Well, Im not, she said haughtily, annoyed at his condescending attitude. I

just had dinner

Yes, you are.

Sakura frowned. Who was he to tell her if she was hungry or not? It was not

like their bellies were somehow telepathically linked. And besides, he was wrong, she

was most definitely not

Hungry for approval and acceptance. Sasuke, heedless of the shock on her

face, advanced a few steps towards her and plowed on ruthlessly, Youre hungry for

praise. Youre hungry for attention.

You always play the part of little miss perfect to please other people, its all an

actoh, dont worry, Sakura, you play your part well. Nobody has noticed. His

condescending expression contorted into one of hatred and his once coldly calm voice

rose, turning into a tumultuous tenor, Youre a fraud, a fake. Youre hungry. Youre

famished. Youre just like the rest of humanity. Youre

Sakura recoiled, her hands poised above her, almost like a shield. Sasuke was

so angry, the hatred in his voice was palpable, and she was the unwitting recipient. She


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couldnt even understand half of what he was saying, and yet she was afraid. The words

had struck something deep inside her, something she didnt acknowledge, didnt even

know existed.

Stop it Her small shoulders trembled; her plea was nearly accompanied

with a dry sob. Please.

Sasuke paused, the reality of the situation dawning upon him. Where did those

sudden outbursts come from?

Gritting his teeth, he took a few calming breaths. Before he could apologize

though, the girl had turned on her heels and ran out of the room. He looked at the door

for a long time before his gaze wandered to the desk, where Sakura had left the food. It

suddenly struck him that, contrary to what he had accused her of, she had risked the

disapproval of Kakashi just to give him some aid. It was, perhaps, an act of compassion

which he had unjustly punished her for. Again, his gaze wandered. It fell to the forlorn

bundle on the corner of the room, his kitten.

Unbidden, memories of his family flitted through his mind. He remembered his

fathers pragmatic expression, his mothers kind smile, his brotherswhy had his

brother murdered them? He didnt understand; it was unfair. Everything was unfair.

Rage engulfed him at the memory of what his brother did, and his hands moved

on their own accord, sweeping the platter and the cup off the desk in one swift motion.The objects fell to the floor with a noisy clatter that only accentuated the complete silence

that came afterward.

A surge of grief assaulted him, his heart contracting painfully at the sensation.

He closed his eyes tightly then, willing his tears not to fall, a difficult and ultimately

futile effort for one so young.

III.

January 13, 2025 Anno Domini

FIFTEEN-YEAR RED WAR ENDS

AS THE REPUBLIC OF CHINA SURRENDERS TO JAPAN, after an estimated

thirteen million civilians died during the two week siege of the Imperial Japanese Army,General Sai, General-Commander of the attack, proclaimed that the war was finallyover.

It is mortifying, the 31- year old commander said. But for change to happen,there is a need for this necessary sacrifice.

However, fifteen civil war attempts had happened within the past few days aftermany nations objected the newly built empire


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***

Its difficult to explain Ino.

What? Too difficult for dear Sakura-chan, the girl genius? said Ino, her voice

carrying a cajoling lilt. Sakura merely rolled her eyes, ignoring the gloved hand that was

being wagged in front of her face.

Biology is simple. Chemistry is simple. Math is simple. Uchiha Sasuke is not

simple. Everything about him just leaves me confused. One minute hes nice, the nexthes a complete jerk

Maybe hes bipolar? her friend quipped.

Sakura rolled her eyes, slightly annoyed at how her best friend could manage to

make the most inane comments.

No. Ino, hes not a nutcase. Hes one of the smartest

Exactly my point. Exceptionally smart people are hardly ever right in the head.

Look at Van Gogh, at Nietzsche, she said, waving her hands for emphasis. Sad, though,

that someone so prettily handsome can be so messed up in here, Ino said, gesturing to

her brain with a soiled glove.

Will you stop interjecting? You asked me to explain this thing I have for

Sasuke-kun, and here you are cutting into my every sentence. Besides, Im not the onewhos into geniuses, said Sakura, giving her friend a knowing look.

Hey! Thats different! Shikamarus a genius, a normalone; but Sasuke, he

hestheres just something wrong with him.

Ino!

Alright, alright, geez, forehead girl, no need to be so feisty, said Ino, holding

up her hands in mock surrender.

Neither of them spoke for a few seconds, both taking some time to gather their

thoughts. But then, Ino spoke, her tone serious.

Seriously though, Sakura just be careful.

Sakura glared at her friend for a few seconds before looking up at the sky, herexpression turning into one of utter surrender and despair.

I just

She sighed, a dreadful sound of pure melancholy.

I I just want him to be happy.

Up above, a hawk was gliding in a wide arc; it was carrying a dead rabbit in its

talons.

***


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He watched her from the windows, trying to make himself as inconspicuous as

possible. She acted differently when she knew he was watching, and it both amused and

irked him. It irked him because her IQ seemed to drop a few notches whenever she

spoke to him. And yet, it amused him, because she was no longer hungry for everyones

approval, only for his.

And it was ironic, that somebody would hunger for famine.

Shes awfully good at growing plants, isnt she?

Sasuke frowned, mindful now of the silent droning of an electronic wheelchair.

What do you want, Naruto? he snapped, turning his head to glare at the

newcomer, a blond-haired boy of about six or seven years old. The boy looked more

dead than alive with his blotched, sallow skin and gaunt cheeks. But despite his sickly

appearance, the boy gave off an aura of strength. He carried himself as if he could take

on anyone and anything in his path, without flinching, at that. For one thing, he was able

to meet Sasukes glare with a mocking smile. Not many people could do that without

fearing retribution.

Nothing, nothing at all, the boy said, his tone dripping with false innocence,

his electric blue eyes twinkling with mischief. I merely want to join you in admiring

Sakura-chans way with plants.

The wheelchair came to a stop directly beside Sasuke, who had not taken hiseyes off Naruto.

Those pumpkinsthey seem rather healthy despite the heavy pollution, dont

they?

Against his wish, Sasuke averted his eyes and turned to look at what Naruto was

talking about. He didnt notice before that she was growing pumpkins, and seeing it now

made his mouth draw into a thin line.

I really admire Sakura-chan. Shes a practical girl, not frivolous at all. Look,

shes not growing flowers like Ino-chan is.

Narutos grin widened when he saw how Sasukes hands were clenched into

fists. The boy was a master at bare minimums, both in words and in movement. His self-

control was almost legendary. And Naruto knew by the boys simplest actions that hewas on to something.

Also, Sasuke, she told me what she wants to be when she grows up.

Would you like me to tell you? Naruto asked in a sing-song voice when his

companion still refused to reply, further igniting Sasukes dread.

The boy continued to make remarks about Sakuras apparent talent at growing

things and by the time he had finished speaking, a sick feeling had settled into Sasukes

stomach.


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Go away, he hissed, nails digging into his palm. Go away, Naruto.

But Naruto didnt move. He had a point to make.

I am merely reminding you, said the young child, suddenly sounding like an

adult with the amusement completely gone from his voice, that this

Sasuke sensed that the boy was looking at him, but he refused to meet the gaze,

his glare directed at the pink-haired girl in the garden who was looking up at him, waving

her gloved hand cheerfully, a bright smile on her cherubic face.

this cannot end happily.

Sasuke swallowed, suddenly noticing how dry his mouth was.

I know.

IV.

May 13, 2028 Anno Domini

THREE LARGEST GRANNARIES BOMBED, WORLDWIDE HUNGER FEARED

AVIGNON, FRANCEthe third largest oat grain silo and factory was destroyedin a massive explosion dealt by C-4 explosive. It was suspected to be the work of vigilant

military rebels supporting the amassing food riots happening across the country side, in

particular the

***

The man made no attempt to cover the sound of his heavy footfalls, letting them

resonate through the solid stone walls of the once grand cathedral freely. Two old

women sitting at the front row looked at him with thinly veiled disdain for his

irreverence, but he didnt care. There was nothing in the building that garnered respect

from him anyway, only hatred. What else could anyone feel for an institution that killed

truth and paved the way for death and destruction?

The church warped the truth, so much that it was no longer recognizable.

People never did find out that good and evil were fruits of the same tree. And it was

through goods greed that balance was lost and the world fell into irreversible chaos.

But the truth would not be hidden. They were able to do so for many years, but

not anymore. The churchs halls were finally as hollow as its traditions.

The time was ripe for change, for purging.

The truth was out. The wheels of history were turning.

They were starting to move.


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Some were catching on. People had stopped going to church long ago;

abandoning all the archaic rituals in favor of all that was worldly. Epicureansthats

what the people called themselvesa fancy term for degenerate and amoral. They were

still ignorant ofeverything, but at least they were seeing through the sham of organized

religion. Christians were a dying stock; even the lukewarm ones were disappearing. The

only ones left were bitter old women who had nowhere else to go and wizened priests

feeding off the scraps of the dying institution. And they were no better than the rest of

the world.

Oddly, the thought brought him comfort. It made his job easier. It was, after

all, easier to starve those who were used to being full.

Tearing his eyes off the wooden cross, he turned away from the altar and headed

towards the confessional.

He glanced around to make sure nobody was looking and stepped inside.

The confessional smelt of dust and incensea heady combination that made the

mans head spin. Nonetheless, he swallowed his revulsion and knelt reverently.

Shalom aleichem, he said, his voice barely louder than a whisper, Bless me,

father, for I have sinned.

Aleichem shalom, was the steady reply. Be at ease, Son, for the heavens

have

Not letting the priest finish, he plowed on, I have caused the death of millions,

father.

His voice held no remorse, only amusement. The priest on the other side sensed

this, and sighed in annoyance.

Its rude to belittle the sufferings of others, Sasuke.

Sasuke only scoffed in response.

Those were real lives. The least you can do is

Stop acting like a saint, Kakashi. It doesnt suit you.

For a minute, Kakashi was unhinged. Nobody called his name with such

familiarity except for Mikoto; and the reminder that Sasuke truly was his mothers son

unnerved him, scared him. Not for the first time, he wished that Sasuke would attach an

honorific to his name like everyone else.

Nonetheless, Kakashi took a deep breath and replied, his voice low and serious.

Then stop acting like the devil. You know very well that this isnt about sides,

not anymore.

The reprimand fell on deaf ears.


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Disappointed at the change in his former student, Kakashi decided to let the

matter drop and get back to business.

So I take it that the mission was a success?

Yes. The details are in my report, Sasuke replied, his manner becoming

formal as he slipped a small brown folder through a narrow crack at the side of the

partition. Suffice it to say that the food riots will reach Paris in a matter of days.

And the preparations for the next bombing?

Theyre in place. I

***

Sakura knelt on one of the pews and bowed her head in silent prayer. She didnt

look at the altar. The mere thought that she would no longer see the golden cross there

saddened her.

It was stolen last week by some looters, and the church was unable to do

anything about it. The police said they had too much on their hands to recover a lost

artifact and although they would try, Father Kakashi and Sakura shouldnt expectanything.

They knew it was hopeless. They wouldnt get it back.

The decaying, termite-ridden wooden cross, a relic from the cathedrals earlier

days, was a poor substitute for the gold one. But then, she thought wryly, it was only

fitting for the state that the church was currently in.

It was sad that the great Cathedral had fallen into ruin. Nobody really cared

anymore. Just outside the building, she was propositioned by a male prostitute who was

leaning disrespectfully on a sculpture of St. John the Baptist. The blatant show of

immorality was shameful.

How rotten can society get before it caves in on itself?she wondered.

Stifling the sense of righteous indignation at the worlds festering sense of

morality, she made the sign of the cross and rose to leave.

***

Have you gotten a good look at her?

He failed to prevent the blood from creeping up his face, embarrassed at the

thought of being caught staring even through the wooden partition that separated him and

his former mentor.

He supposed his sudden silence gave him away.

He hadnt even realized that he had stopped speaking.


17/28


It wasnt his fault, however. The glimpse he had of the girl he coveted, hindered

as it was by the confessional doors pattern of Celtic knots, had brought him crashing

back, making him forget his grim mission for a moment and remember that he was an

adolescent too and that he wasnt exempt from the changes wrought by his age.

Nonetheless, there was nothing he could do about it. A normal life was out of the

question, and he had come to terms with the fact long ago. Taking a deep breath, he

closed his eyes and fought to regain composure.

It was, however, a losing battle, as Kakashis next words made him lose itcompletely, almost making him hurl the meager contents of his stomach in a violent

surge of vomit.

I hope you did, because shes your next target.

V.

June 29, 2028 Anno Domini

BUSHFIRE DESTROYS HALF OF CHINAS CROPS.

LINYA, CHINACrops of yeast and rice stored for the next five years were

burned from an extensive bushfire that started from some unknown farm. 16,000 hectaresof rice fields, corn and other crops were destroyed from the extreme heat. Experts said

that this was an effect of global warming, that the flammable exhumes in the polluted air

were now being ignited by the extreme rise in temperature.

There was a surge of panic among the people as economic analysts said that the

calamity added to the damage done by the sudden deluge of hurricanes in the Western

Area, greatly worsening the shortage of staple foods. Disease contamination among stock

animals, namely fowls, pigs and cows, also increased. Thus, lessening the production of

dairy products...

***

Sakura, youve been staring at that flask for five whole minutes. Its

troublesome. Just say whats on your mind already and get to work.

The said girl glared at her coworker but was secretly thankful for what she knew

was genuine concern.

Sighing, Sakura removed her goggles and walked to her friends desk. She had

developed a strong bond with the genius and had grown to respect the dedication which

he poured into his work, despite his proposed laziness. The fact that he was her best

friends boyfriend helped too since they had a common groundthey were never tired of

complaining about Inos crazy antics. The blonde was simply indomitable, a ray of

sunshine in this otherwise bleak era, and they both loved her for that.


18/28


Shikamaru, its just that I Im worried that we wont be able to develop the

crop in time. People are dying and here I am thinking about

Is this about Sasuke again? Because you know very well what my stand is on

him.

Well, yes, in fact, it is about him. Im just wondering where he went, thats all.

I mean, I never understood why he left. I keep on thinking that its my fault

Dont flatter yourself.

Sakura flinched at his words; they seemed like an insult, but she knew it was

actually just Shikamarus characteristic bluntness.

What do you mean?

Sasuke had bigger things in his mind, much bigger than some sappy adolescent

love story. I know this because I talked to him. If your love for him encompassed your

whole world back then, it was different for him. Probably, your love was just a speck, a

bothersome bump

Are you saying that he didnt care about me?

No, just that your attention was appreciated, but unwelcomed and ultimately

unimportant in the face of the bigger issues. Had he been anyone else, you two wouldve

eloped by now. But hes not, so you should just forget about it, find someone easier tolove.

But I cant

You cant, or you wont?

If I forget about him, she said deliberately, her voice going stronger by each

word, this project of ours will never be finished.

Shikamaru raised a thin eyebrow and looked at her in a calculating manner.

Sakura looked back, unflinching under his scrutiny.

Im doing this for him, everythingits always been for him.

Neither of them spoke for a long while, each absorbed in their own thoughts.

Sakura, take this advice from a friend. Forget about him.

But I already told you, the projecthe, Sasukes my motivation, always has

been!

Then damn the project. Forget about him, for both your own sake and his.

What? But I dontI dont understand. This is our project, Shikamaru. You

know how important it is. How can you just tell me to abandon it?

Forget I said anything.


19/28


Shikamaru? Please, if you know something about Sasuke, tell me.

However, Shikamaru would say no more no matter how hard she pressed.

VI.

June 12, 2030 Anno Domini

MIRACULOUS DISCOVERY, SOLUTION TO THE FAMINE

YATOMI SPECIAL AGRICULATURAL DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTEAn

intern ,Sakura Haruno, at the young age of 20, amazed the International Rice ResearchInstitute professionals as she presented her solution to the worldwide hunger. A miracle

crop, a newly developed grain specie called IR-777 Manna, was earning positive

reviews

***

Tailing her for almost half a day wasnt easy, but it could be done. Sakura might

have the most conspicuous features, but she was rather skilled in blending in with the

bustling crowds of the old city. It spoke volumes, that maybe she wasnt as innocent as he

thought she was.As he saw her walk past the old pathways inside the aged synagogues and

ancient cemeteries, curiosity gnawed on him. Was she any different now? Granted that

there was something new in her stance; more confident and straight. Her hair never grew

past her shoulders, but it was rather dry for someone who used to wash it carefully with

conditioner back in the old days. She wore absolutely no make-up, except for a colorless

gloss for the cracking of her lips. Her hands were still as slender, her form was a bit

taller, lither.

Radiant.

Sakura still smiled at the odd little moments, as if there was something funny

while she was in deep thought.

It made him sick that it was still Sakura.

Yes, yes, Mam. He could hear her words drift, tinged with exasperation as

she tried to defeat the dissonant noise of the rushing crowd. Im already I wont be

lost, Ive been here before, and no. She gave a frustrated sigh. I know, I know. Will be

careful. I hope youre not in the wine cellar, I can hear echoes. Bye! There was a short

laugh before she slid her phone shut.

His operatorthe one who was on the other end of the blue tooth transmitter

was probably puffing an expensive carcinogenic stick. Sasuke could hear the tense, less

languid inhale. Make it an accident.


20/28


He heard the clear instructions as he let the engine roar angrily.

Ukonete, prosm, vstup a nstup

The dark car swerved to meet the tram in a head collision.

Before jumping off the vehicle, he saw brilliant green before a flash of white

blinded everything.

VII.

August 28, 2030 Anno Domini

SEVEN DEATHS IN A CAR ACCIDENT

INSIDE THE PRAGUE METRO SUBWAY, seven civilians died in a car crash

because a probable drunk driver entered the open subway station at nine in the evening,

destroying several infrastructures and wounding 18 bystanders. Meanwhile, seven died

upon arrival

Law enforcements had surrounded and exhumed the remains of the wreckedBlack Urroco, but they did not find any passenger. They assumed that the driver rolled

out of the car during the impact and was among those who were crushed beneath therocks. Dopravn podnik Praha (D.P. Praha) would take full responsibility of the

expenses

***

Are you comfortable? The concern was lukewarm at best, but Sakura

appreciated it all the same when Sai had settled himself on the recliner, pleased.

Sakura fidgeted, crumpling the expensive crimson silk dress for this occasion

with her blunt nails. She was surprised and secretly thrilled that the world had seen the

potential of her research, as she now sat in front of a prominent leader who had deemed it

necessary to have a little chat. Those elites invited to the Grand Dinner were impressed

with her accomplishments and told her with too much enthusiasm that this was a great

opportunity, though, their words felt empty to her ears.

A promising project to be funded by such a great man was indeed a big step for

her career and for her goal to help those poor souls dying in starvation, but she was

warned that she should tread carefully on the young mans graces. There was a huge

possibility that her work would be used to feed a powered army, but she had no qualms in

using any resources to pave the way of a good life for everyone.

The suspicion further increased when her wise mentor warned her, Never trust

men who always smile so carelessly. There was something about the ever-grinning

young man that made her hackles rise, even if she already knew him before.


21/28


Sai was a sporadic guest professor in her massive university, frequently seen in

those small awnings to quietly sketch the large marble statues in the grassy quadrangles

with a devout expression. Her childhood best friend, Ino, introduced him as her very

young uncle on her maternal side; he and Ino were close like they were siblingsor in

Inos words, gay best friends. It was only a matter of time before Sakura warmed up to

him as if they were of the same age, although, she always had to endure Sais constant

need to tease herhideous forehead.

After a series of brief encounters and pleasant discourses (he was quite aconnoisseur in different aspects of art), he was gone and the next thing she knew, he was

already rising up in the ranks of the Imperial Calvary.

Sai... It was now or never. Can I ask you a favor?

Of course, he stated with ease. After all, Im trying to render the world a

great service. Retributions for the casualties. And youre the one who instigated this

project. Im very grateful for that.

Somebody Sakura inhaled as she thought of those eyes staring back at her,

filled with intenthatred or apathy, she never wanted to know. A gradual increasing

pressure in her chest made the nervous thump-thump of her heart louder. H-He tried to

kill me on my way here.

The general stiffened, taking a quick sweeping gaze over the bustle of chatteringpeople and leaned to her with a low, dangerous whisper, You saw him?

She didnt glance up, afraid that his face would be seen in her eyes. No, I justneeded to tell you that

You need more protection? the young officer prompted, that calm faade

marred with a neutral frown.

No, its not that. I know itll be a great inconvenience, but if something

happens to me. She breathed through her mouth, an anxious quiver, wishing that

everything would just explain why, why now? when everything would finally be finished.

She might have done this forhim, for that face she saw that fateful afternoon,

but her selfish choice must not affect the lives of many innocents.

Please, if something happens to me, Shikamaru would definitely take over;along with the others, let them continue my work. Support them as well. And

And?

And. She was really unreasonable. Dont catch himmy killer, assassin.

Just let him go.

Why thats Sai paused, his smile more genuine than those fake grins that he

usually gave, and he sighed in mock amusement. Thats quite unorthodox, Ugly.


22/28


Laughing at the old nickname had certainly loosened up the gravity of their

conversation. Well, promise me. Please. I just want that. Nothing else.

It will certainly be done, Hag.

Thank you. She gave a relieved laugh. Now, have you seen Naruto? That

little kid looks so grown up now! I heard that hes under Father Kakashi right now, so

Im a little worried about the discipline since hes very hard on his boys

Sakura continued her nonsensical chatter, failing to notice the small strangedetails: why Sai wasnt entirely concerned at the idea of her death, why he didnt press

any questions about the details of the recent attack. But she was too relieved because of

his promise to even care about the mans grim expression when Sakura lapsed into a

relaxed silence.

***

The gentle old butler had almost forcibly blocked Sakura on her way out of the

mansion. She was invited by their gracious master to stay for the night, besides, Lady

Yamanaka would arrive so wouldnt it be convenient to catch up for old times sake?

Refusing to decline such an offer, the young woman gracefully accepted the new

set of clothes they provided in her large guest room, located about a yard away from the

little den of book collections and expensive canvas replicas.

While waiting for Ino, she set on to enclose herself with the crinkly old pages

and the crackling warm fire. Sakura was pretty sure that Ino would check on her uncle

first, before they would tell her she was here.

However, she halted when she saw Sai sitting in front of his oak desk,

illuminated by the warm lamp lights that lined the circular den. There was a black mass

of something that she couldnt decipher for a moment from the entrance, but she was sure

that he was just about to peruse that large book.

Good evening, Sakura-san, he greeted, eyes less cold after glossing over the

indecipherable symbols on the leather cover.

She greeted him in return, traces of uneasiness apparent on her features.

Will you like something to read? The books here are mostly old first-edition

classics, but they will be moved soon enough. The contemporary collections were the

first to go, but I cant seem to showcase this in my public mansion

No, no. Its fine, I just want to look around while waiting for Ino-cha

Her eyes strayed to the book now being hefted open, with pages large enough to

swallow the whole length of his work desk. It was like those illustration books she had

that Kakashi would read to her when she missed her parents at the dorm, but instead of

the caricature images of animals and fae, it was a colossal book of old painted canvases.


23/28


Isnt it interesting? They were helpful on my brief perusing of revivalist art. Its

quite an expensive one. Theyre even written in Russian.

Slowly, she listened to the soft-spoken, yet succinct stories behind the blown up,

black and white images of The Virgin and The Child, a still photograph of a beautiful

mural in a cathedral, of an unsmiling princess and a prophetic bird with a pale face of a

man, wrapped in ebony night feathers and fiery halo light.

But what drew her eyeswith such inexplicable attention, was the image of men

riding the four colored steeds with a black embossed inscription of that ominously glinted at the side.

Ah, yes, Viktor was interested in myths and fairytales, Sai spoke fondly, his

hand caressing a gaping maw of the crimson mare almost akin to affection. There were

slain men beneath their hooves, the brilliant red crescent peeking behind the dark,

translucent clouds and a glowing lamb was perched above all the turmoil.

The four horsemen.

Her words were like a piercing scream in the silence of her thoughts.

The bringers of the end of the world.

Yes. Sai nodded, his eyes closing with mild merriment. As each of the seals

was opened, they came, one by one. There was a semblance of mystery surrounding hisquiet words, barely concealing his enthusiasm about the subject.

He, the white one, who first brings pestilence He tapped the man who sat

proudly on his mare, with his bow drawn and crown held high.

And then, the crimson one comes. He then drew a path to the red-headed man,

his sword raised to behead the struggling soldier beneath him. Given the power to start

wars, robbing peace.

But, he who brings the scales, the impartial black one. Sai hovered his index

on the image of the thin, gaunt man with stark-eyed gaze, coated in a thin veneer of anger

as he gazed upon the fields of outstretched hands and lifeless bodies.He brings everyone

an all consuming-hunger.

Famine.

Yes. His affirmation brought a nervous shiver down her spine. Then, you

know who follows him, this pale horse?

He, the pale one. She swallowed thickly and all she could think of was to run

as she gazed at the empty sockets of the haunting skull. From his bony phalanges, he

wielded the curved blade on its thin rod. Deat

Ojichan!

The shrill call nearly made Sakura jump.


24/28


The blonde appeared in the doorway with a mischievous grin. Ino then stopped

laughing when she noticed her long-time friend was almost as ashen-colored as her uncle.

Forehead! The blinking Ino let out a surprised gasp. Youre here.

Sakura breathed deeply, trying not to look frightened. Hi, pig.

Sai?

I think its good if you two catch up, Beautiful.

She turned a suspicious baby blue eye to the two of them, pouting her lips a little

bit.

You two look so serious

Its nothing, Beautiful. Sai smiled innocently, as the taller woman peered over

the two of them with an inquisitive look. We were just talking about a painting.

You and your weird tastes. Ino paced towards them, now looking at the art

book with keen interest. Nice bods on these men. Its a gorgeous painting, I must say.

Why dont you draw something more like this? An elbow jutted playfully to his midrib

as Ino giggled.

Its just a painting, Ino.

Sakura gave a nervous smile when the taut atmosphere dissipated, a wancomparison compared to Sai.

VIII.

September 15, 2030 Anno Domini

MIRACLE CROP FUNDED BY THE MILITARY

Mas. Brig. General Sai, head of the Greater Japanese Army, promised to fund

the Miracle Crop Research yesterday in a meeting with Haruno Sakura, the project's

main researcher. The meeting took place in General Sai's summer rest house located in

Shibukawa, Gunma. General Sai and the young Dr. Haruno finalized their contract afterhours of negotiations.

Im happy to support Sakura-sans quest to fight famine. Its an admirable

effort, said General Sai in an interview, I just hope its not a losing battle.

Haruno Sakuras laboratories and her research would be transferred to Ebetsu

prefecture, owned by the government and funded by highest officials

***

There was something different in her new abode.


25/28


Granted that her freshly-furnished quarters was designed with an urban,

sophisticated ambience, the glam features did nothing but to instill intimidation to her

small form. It also gave a foreboding aura, especially since she could feel the shadows

deepening as the hours progressed, lurking under the bright strips of light.

It was her first day; the small crimson digits of zero-two-three-zero blinked on

the LCD, alarming her to stand up and dress herself with the clothes on top of her

baggage. She hadnt even started unpacking her things yet. She threw the starchy, past

knee-length white coat over her shoulders to hide her simple red tee, slipped on her blackstovepipes and open-toed boots while half-running on the corridors.

Even since she started producing the first prototypes of certain pods and seeds,

placed in their corresponding Petri dishes for multiple tests, she knew there was a huge

probability of failure: that everyone would still suffer from deforestations and natural

calamities. Yet, with her current discoveries, the resistance of her crops might even aid a

breakthrough in creating a perfect vaccine against all types of human and animal

diseases, from the simple cold to the most virulent autoimmune diseases, if she tried

enough for a few more years.

A weapon against death.

Punching in the few numbers and sliding her ID in the slot, the door slid

automatically with a smooth whirr. Thankful for the cool conditioning of the room, she

could see the swift progress of her work as the temperature of the autoclave machinesflashed across the monitors on the nearby screen. Absorbed in determining the decrease

of the inoculated salmonella on the chosen produce, Sakura took a while before noticing

that not a single soul came in her lab.

Normally, she would welcome this kind of peace; no hassles from being

interrupted, no distractions. But the stillness had truly disturbed her, as she transferred the

fresh batch of agars to the nearby cooler.

It was a bit disconcerting, though. Where were the others? They were supposed

to start at exactly three in the morning. The gracious general had wanted to see if the

project could exceed the production of ten tons of rice, as well as yeast and vineyards

within the span of two weeks. Using rapid growth stimulations along with

There was an ear-shattering explosion.

Then, the whole place was submerged in a suppressing darkness

***

He could see her.

In the darkness, where his eyes glowed in an accursed red, Sakura did something

unexpected: she sat on the sturdy stool, closing her eyes, trying to calm her apprehensive

breaths. Her glazed eyes stared, and he could picture her pupils dilate from the temporary

loss of her sight. She didnt stumble on her feet in fear while the alarms caterwauled in

deafening echoes. She didnt ramble to herself, a habit she had when scared and alone


26/28


27/28


She leaned forward, the pink bangs covering her half-closed lids. I can help

you. I will always help you.

You dont understand, Sakura, he viciously snarled when her curled knucklesrelaxed, lowering her guard to him; when her tight expression eased, as if she was

assuming that he couldnt blow her head off with one shot of his exploding bullet. He

nearly bit off a curse because of that stupid trusting naivety she never lost. Beads of

perspiration began to trail a path on his temples as the heat increased by each passing

second.You are a stupid fool... he spoke harshly, to trust me.

(unbidden visions flashed before his eyes as naruto, the ever clairvoyant,

relayed their supposed to be fairytale ending: him and sakura, with their backs turned to

watch the sky burning in waves of orange as the moon turned red.)

His hands trembled, shaking from the tips of the phalanges to the joints of his

wrist.

(naruto told a different outcome of this moment. sasuke would cut off his sixwings; he would take her far away from here, keeping her safe, as the cycle would unfold

its last phase: a round boy with a foxy grin would rebel and leave the threshold of their

fates to deliver the frail humankind to its end.)

Most thought of Sakura as a saint, but he knew better.

All I ever needed was for you tosee me! Because all these werent for

humanitys sake.

And he realized that here was Sakura. A human.

Mortal.

Because of him.

The metal was cold, deathly cold on his hand.

He knew soon enough, her skin would be as cold as well.

There was an explosive shot.

(and he would always see her everywhere, alive. away from this fucked upworld, where god could never find her, never at the reach of the coming death. and with

the thought of her life being spared, his soul would be satiated to the fullest.)

Sasuke Globules of blood spouted out from her pale lips, now glistening

with a stain of red, a color that never seemed to touch her lips before. Like thick wine, it

dribbled across her chin. kun.

The bright blood gnawed the white cloth slowly, consuming rich red on her

paling hands. And her armswide, open, acceptingcrumpled in a bent angle, clutching


28/28


at the middle of her torso, where the spreading stain was stark on the clean fabric. She

collapsed on the floor, failing to fall onto him.

It probably took a minutebut it felt like foreverwhen he lowered himself to

the ground.

When he brushed the tendrils of her hair away from the corners of her smiling

lips, he remembered the visions, his hopeful dreams; and knew that Sakura at least

deserved this sweet repose, rather than see the world crumbling under Narutos hand,

imprisoned. She would never rest until everyone was saved.

Until he was at peace. And that would never happen.

She deserved to be free from this hell hole called life.

And for once, he satiated his hunger and took a bite ofhis forbidden fruit.

XI.

October 10, 2030 Anno Domini

MIRACLE CROP INVENTOR DIES, RESEARCH DESTROYED IN FIRE

JAPANSakura Haruno, 20, Bioengineering Specialist, died inside the

Innovation Fields Laboratories Incorporated in Ebetsu Prefecture. An accidental gas

leak was what the forensics uncovered after a week of full-scale investigation.

Haphazard debris lay scattered as volunteers tried to salvage the remains of the

facility. Though there was no extensive damage in the surrounding areas, ten workerswere severely burnt, buried for five hours beneath the rubble. Miss Haruno, who was

working overnight inside her study located near the gas tanks, received the full extent of

the explosion. Her body was not found, but there were confirmed DNA traces of her driedblood, leaving the suspicion that the arson was initiated to cover up a murder.

Known as a young scientist in the inner circles of biochemical societies, MissHaruno was a freshman medical student in Harvard University

L amentations

M ara,

A chorus of phantom shrieks filled her crowded mind.

grtia plna,

la carestia

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