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{{Status|Gameplay}}
{{Era|RW}}
{{disambig header|the [[Halo 4]] level|the Halo 4 [[achievement]]|Midnight (achievement)}}
{{disambig header|the [[Halo 4]] level|the Halo 4 [[achievement]]|Midnight (achievement)}}
{{Level infobox
{{Level Infobox
|pagegamelabel=H4
|prev = [[Composer (level)|Composer]]
|prev=[[Composer (level)|Composer]]
|next =  
|next=*[[Halo 4 credits|''Halo 4'' credits]] {{C|''[[Halo 4]]''}}
* [[Halo 4 credits|''Halo 4'' credits]]
*[[Epilogue (Halo 4 level)|''Epilogue'']] {{C|''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection|MCC]]''}}
** [[Epilogue (Halo 4 level)|''Epilogue'']] {{c|Chronologically}}
|name='''''Midnight'''''
|game = ''Halo 4''  
|image=[[File:H4 Midnight Loadscreen.png|300px]]
|name = Midnight
|game=''Halo 4''
|image = [[File:Midnight.png|300px]]
|devname=<code>m90_sacrifice</code>{{Ref/File|Id=H4EK|H4EK|H4EK\tags\environments\solo\m90_sacrifice\m90_sacrifice.scenario}}
|player = [[John-117]]
|player=[[Master_Chief_(gameplay)#Halo_4|Master Chief]]
|date = [[2557|July 25, 2557]]
|date=[[2557|July 25, 2557]]
|place = Onboard ''[[Mantle's Approach]]'', over [[Earth]]
|place=Onboard ''[[Mantle's Approach]]'', over [[Earth]]
|objective = Stop the Didact by destroying the Composer.
|objective=Stop the Didact by destroying the Composer.
|partime=00:25:00 {{C|''Master Chief Collection''-only}}
|parscore=25,000 {{C|''Master Chief Collection''-only}}
}}
}}
{{Article quote|With the Composer in the Didact's possession, Chief and Cortana must destroy the device before he turns it on his next target.}}
{{Article Quote|With the Composer in the Didact's possession, Chief and Cortana must destroy the device before he turns it on his next target.}}
'''Midnight''' is the ninth [[campaign]] level of ''[[Halo 4]]'', and the eighth and last one to feature actual gameplay.
'''Midnight''' is the ninth [[campaign]] level of ''[[Halo 4]]'', and the eighth and last one to feature actual gameplay.


Completing the level on any difficulty awards the player the "[[Midnight (achievement)|Midnight]]" achievement, worth 10 Gamerscore. Killing three [[Promethean Crawler]]s with the [[Gravity hammer (fiction)|gravity hammer]] in one hit in the level unlocks "[[Chief, Smash!]]", worth 20 Gamerscore.<ref>[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/08/22/The-Halo-Bulletin-82212.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''The Halo Bulletin - 22/08/2012'']</ref>
Completing the level on any difficulty awards the player the "[[Midnight (achievement)|Midnight]]" achievement, worth 10 Gamerscore. Killing three [[Promethean Crawler]]s with the [[Type-2 gravity hammer|gravity hammer]] in one hit in the level unlocks "[[Chief, Smash!]]", worth 20 Gamerscore.<ref>[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2012/08/22/The-Halo-Bulletin-82212.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''The Halo Bulletin - 22/08/2012'']</ref>


In ''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection]]'', "Midnight" can be unlocked with the same criteria and awards the same amount of Gamerscore. "Chief, Smash!" can still be unlocked by killing three Crawlers in one hit with the gravity hammer, but the achievement is now worth only 10 Gamerscore points. Beating the level's 25 minute par time and the 25,000 point par score awards  "[[Countdown (achievement)|Countdown]]" and "[[Witching Hour]]", respectively, each worth 10 Gamerscore points. Activating the [[seven]]th and final ''Halo 4'' [[Terminal (Halo 4)|Terminal]], which is found in this level, unlocks "[[Cryptum (achievement)|Cryptum]]", worth 5 Gamerscore points.
In ''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection]]'', "Midnight" can be unlocked with the same criteria and awards the same amount of Gamerscore. "Chief, Smash!" can still be unlocked by killing three Crawlers in one hit with the gravity hammer, but the achievement is now worth only 10 Gamerscore points. Beating the level's 25 minute par time and the 25,000 point par score awards  "[[Countdown (achievement)|Countdown]]" and "[[Witching Hour]]", respectively, each worth 10 Gamerscore points. Activating the [[seven]]th and final ''Halo 4'' [[Terminal/Halo 4|Terminal]], which is found in this level, unlocks "[[Cryptum (achievement)|Cryptum]]", worth 5 Gamerscore points.


==Summary==
==Summary==
With [[Ur-Didact|the Didact]] leaving ''[[Ivanoff Station]]'', the [[John-117|Master Chief]] and [[Cortana]] chase after him in an [[F-41 Broadsword]] fighter armed with a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]]. However, as they approach his ship, the ''[[Mantle's Approach]]'', the Didact prepares to jump into [[slipspace]] again. Quickly flying the Broadsword under the Didact's shields, the Master Chief is able to piggyback ''Mantle's Approach'' into slipspace. Cortana determines that the Didact is at the [[Composer]] and the Master Chief embarks on a dangerous flight through a trench on ''Mantle's Approach'' to reach the Composer and deliver the nuke. ''Mantle's Approach'' soon arrives at Earth where the orbital defenses are unable to penetrate the ship's shields. Discovering the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} acting as the [[flagship]] of [[Battle Group Dakota]], the Master Chief makes contact, discovering now-[[Captain]] [[Thomas Lasky]] in charge following [[FLEETCOM]] relieving Captain [[Andrew Del Rio]] of command over his abandoning the Master Chief on [[Requiem]]. With the Didact sealing off the entrance to the Composer, the Master Chief disables the [[particle cannon]]s around the Forerunner weapon, allowing ''Infinity'' to blast a hole into the side of the ship for the Master Chief. The hole quickly closes and the Broadsword crashes, forcing the Master Chief to continue on foot with the HAVOK.
With [[Ur-Didact|the Didact]] leaving ''[[Ivanoff Station]]'', the [[John-117|Master Chief]] and [[Cortana]] chase after him in an [[F-41 Broadsword]] fighter armed with a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon]]. However, as they approach his ship, the ''[[Mantle's Approach]]'', the Didact prepares to jump into [[slipspace]] again. Quickly flying the Broadsword under the Didact's shields, the Master Chief is able to piggyback ''Mantle's Approach'' into slipspace. Cortana determines that the Didact is at the [[Composer]] and the Master Chief embarks on a dangerous flight through a trench on ''Mantle's Approach'' to reach the Composer and deliver the HAVOK. ''Mantle's Approach'' soon arrives at Earth where the orbital defenses are unable to penetrate the ship's shields. Discovering the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} acting as the [[flagship]] of [[Battle Group Dakota]], the Master Chief makes contact, discovering now-[[Captain]] [[Thomas Lasky]] in charge following [[FLEETCOM]] relieving Captain [[Andrew Del Rio]] of command over his abandoning the Master Chief on [[Requiem]]. With the Didact sealing off the entrance to the Composer, the Master Chief disables the [[particle cannon]]s around the Forerunner weapon, allowing ''Infinity'' to blast a hole into the side of the ship for the Master Chief. The hole quickly closes and the Broadsword crashes, forcing the Master Chief to continue on foot with the HAVOK.


With Cortana's [[rampancy]] worsening, the two struggle to use the ship's [[teleportation grid|portal system]] to reach the Composer before the Didact can use it against the Earth. As the Master Chief finally nears the Composer, the Didact surrounds himself with an energy shield and prepares to fire it on Earth. Cortana has the Master Chief insert her into the system at three separate locations so that she can eject her rampant personality spikes into the system, successfully taking down the shield. However, the Didact destroys the terminal containing Cortana's [[data crystal chip]] before the Master Chief can retrieve her and fires the Composer upon [[New Phoenix]], digitizing millions of people.
With Cortana's [[rampancy]] worsening, the two struggle to use the ship's [[teleportation grid|portal system]] to reach the Composer before the Didact can use it against the Earth. As the Master Chief finally nears the Composer, the Didact surrounds himself with an energy shield and prepares to fire it on Earth. Cortana has the Master Chief insert her into the system at three separate locations so that she can eject her rampant personality spikes into the system, successfully taking down the shield. However, the Didact destroys the terminal containing Cortana's [[data crystal chip]] before the Master Chief can retrieve her and fires the Composer upon [[New Phoenix]], digitizing millions of people.
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''Fade in to [[Ivanoff Station]]'s hangar, where an [[F-41 Broadsword]] is being moved by an overhead conveyor belt, stopping once it reaches the open doorway. A floor panel opens up underneath, revealing a [[gravity lift]] that floats a missile carrying a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon|HAVOK nuke]] up to the fighter. Once it reaches its underside, the fighter's clamps lock around it. The conveyor belt releases the Broadsword, letting it float on its own. The fighter slowly turns, activates its thrusters, and blasts forward into space. Fade to black.''
''Fade in to [[Ivanoff Station]]'s hangar, where an [[F-41 Broadsword]] is being moved by an overhead conveyor belt, stopping once it reaches the open doorway. A floor panel opens up underneath, revealing a [[gravity lift]] that floats a missile carrying a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon|HAVOK nuke]] up to the fighter. Once it reaches its underside, the fighter's clamps lock around it. The conveyor belt releases the Broadsword, letting it float on its own. The fighter slowly turns, activates its thrusters, and blasts forward into space. Fade to black.''


''Fade in on the ''[[Mantle's Approach]].'' A few moments after it passes the camera, the [[John-117|Master Chief]]'s Broadsword speeds by in pursuit. Cut to inside the Broadsword's cockpit.''
''Fade in on the'' [[Mantle's Approach]]. ''A few moments after it passes the camera, the [[John-117|Master Chief]]'s Broadsword speeds by in pursuit. Cut to inside the Broadsword's cockpit.''


* '''[[Cortana]]''': "Approaching the Didact's ship in two hundred kilometers! Once we get onboard, we'll find the bridge."
* '''[[Cortana]]''': "Approaching the Didact's ship in two hundred kilometers! Once we get onboard, we'll find the bridge."


''A slipspace portal opens in front of the ''Mantle's Approach''.''
''A slipspace portal opens in front of the'' Mantle's Approach.


* '''John-117''': "He's on the move again."
* '''John-117''': "He's on the move again."
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''The Broadsword flies forward through an enormous chasm in the Forerunner ship. Streaks of stars can be seen in the sky from their slipspace travel.''
''The Broadsword flies forward through an enormous chasm in the Forerunner ship. Streaks of stars can be seen in the sky from their slipspace travel.''


* '''Cortana''': ''(mildly crackling from rampancy)'' "Broadsword's hull integrity is stable. ''We'll be safe'' as long as we stay below the Didact's shields."
* '''Cortana''': (''mildly cracking from rampancy'') "Broadsword's hull integrity is stable. ''We'll be safe'' as long as we stay below the Didact's shields."


* '''John-117''': "Where's the Composer?"
* '''John-117''': "Where's the Composer?"
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''The Broadsword encounters its first obstacles: large moving walls, and Forerunner [[Forerunner light point defense gun|anti-air turrets]]. The Broadsword fires at them and at an orange beacon to unlock a gate.''
''The Broadsword encounters its first obstacles: large moving walls, and Forerunner [[Forerunner light point defense gun|anti-air turrets]]. The Broadsword fires at them and at an orange beacon to unlock a gate.''


''There is a loud crackle and the streaked sky above returns to normal. [[Earth]] can be seen overhead.''
''There is a loud crackle and the streaked sky above returns to normal. Earth can be seen overhead.''


* '''Cortana''': "[[Čerenkov radiation|Cherenkov ''radiation'']] fluctuating! ''We're coming out'' of slipspace!"
* '''Cortana''': "[[Čerenkov radiation|Cherenkov ''radiation'']] fluctuating! ''We're coming out'' of slipspace!"
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* '''[[UNSC Fleet Command|Fleetcom Watch]] (COM)''': "At current velocity, hostile will achieve Earth orbit in approximately 4 minutes."
* '''[[UNSC Fleet Command|Fleetcom Watch]] (COM)''': "At current velocity, hostile will achieve Earth orbit in approximately 4 minutes."


* '''''Infinity'' Comm (COM)''': "Roger. [[Battle Group Dakota]], close on the Forerunner vessel."
* '''''Infinity'' Comm (COM)''': "Roger. [[Battlegroup Dakota|Battle Group Dakota]], close on the Forerunner vessel."


* '''Cortana''': "''[[UNSC Infinity|Infinity]]'' must have warned them!"
* '''Cortana''': "''[[UNSC Infinity|Infinity]]'' must have warned them!"
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* '''Fleetcom Watch (COM)''': "Captain Lasky, you are clear to engage."
* '''Fleetcom Watch (COM)''': "Captain Lasky, you are clear to engage."


''The Broadsword clears a chain of gates, then reaches a tunnel whose interior grows smaller and smaller. After flying through it, it arrives at the ''Mantle's Approach's'' main weapon''.
''The Broadsword clears a chain of gates, then reaches a tunnel whose interior grows smaller and smaller. After flying through it, it arrives at the'' Mantle's Approach's ''main weapon''.


=== FROM THE CRADLE... ===
=== FROM THE CRADLE... ===
[[File:H4-Midnight-F41Broadsword.jpg|thumb|275px|The view of Earth.]]
[[File:H4-Midnight-F41Broadsword.jpg|thumb|275px|right|The view of Earth.]]
''The new area is round and surrounded by larger anti-air cannons. In the distance, the ''Infinity'' and several other UNSC ships can be seen approaching the Didact's ship.''
''The new area is round and surrounded by larger anti-air cannons. In the distance, the ''Infinity'' and several other UNSC ships can be seen approaching the Didact's ship.''


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* '''Lasky (COM)''': "Roger that, Chief. You might want to back up a little. Main battery, fire!"
* '''Lasky (COM)''': "Roger that, Chief. You might want to back up a little. Main battery, fire!"


''The ''Infinity'' fires its twin fore weapons, which strike the front of the ''Mantle's Approach'' and create a neat hole leading to the interior. The Chief's Broadsword flies back to enter the ship.''
''The ''Infinity'' fires its twin fore weapons, which strike the front of the'' Mantle's Approach ''and create a neat hole leading to the interior. The Chief's Broadsword flies back to enter the ship.''


* '''John-117''': "Clean hit. We're proceeding to insertion."
* '''John-117''': "Clean hit. We're proceeding to insertion."
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* '''Cortana''': "Now what do we do?"
* '''Cortana''': "Now what do we do?"


''John turns around and carefully removes the warhead from the missile. He then locks it onto the back of his armor and grabs his [[MA5D assault rifle|assault rifle]].''
''John turns around and carefully removes the warhead from the missile. He then locks onto the back of his armor and grabs his [[MA5D assault rifle|assault rifle]].''


* '''John-117''': "Plan B."
* '''John-117''': "Plan B."
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=== ...TO THE GRAVE ===
=== ...TO THE GRAVE ===
'''{''Gameplay''}'''
'''{''Gameplay''}'''


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* '''Cortana''': "I recommend entering the doorway to your left."
* '''Cortana''': "I recommend entering the doorway to your left."


''John jumps down a shaft, his descent slowed by a [[gravity lift]].''
''John jumps down a shaft, his descent slowed by a gravity lift.''


* '''Cortana''': "I won't leave you! I promise! ''(in the background simultaneously)'' ''I will always take care of you.''"
* '''Cortana''': "I won't leave you! I promise! (''in the background simultaneously'') ''I will always take care of you.''"


''John lands and Cortana's face returns to his HUD.''
''John lands and Cortana's face returns to his HUD.''
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''John travels higher up into the room until he reaches it. The next room is an armory. A whispering Cortana can be heard in the background. For a few seconds, the incoming transmission, instead of having the name "Cortana", has "Dr. [[Catherine Halsey]]".''
''John travels higher up into the room until he reaches it. The next room is an armory. A whispering Cortana can be heard in the background. For a few seconds, the incoming transmission, instead of having the name "Cortana", has "Dr. [[Catherine Halsey]]".''


* '''Cortana''': "''I'm sorry'', I can't control what my processes are doing. ''The stronger threads'' keep reprioritizing <small>themselves over me</small>. ''(in the background simultaneously)'' ''John, our mother needs us!''"
* '''Cortana''': "''I'm sorry'', I can't control what my processes are doing. ''The stronger threads'' keep reprioritizing <small>themselves over me</small>. (''in the background simultaneously'') ''John, our mother needs us!''"


* '''John-117''': "What about the Didact?"
* '''John-117''': "What about the Didact?"
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* '''Cortana''': "Portal ''open! Far side'' of the room!"
* '''Cortana''': "Portal ''open! Far side'' of the room!"


''John reaches the portal, but the next room is not the Composer.''
''John reaches the portal, but the next room is not at the Composer.''


* '''John-117''': "Where are you?"
* '''John-117''': "Where are you?"
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* '''Cortana''': "''Reinforcements! Hold them off'' while I locate the Composer."
* '''Cortana''': "''Reinforcements! Hold them off'' while I locate the Composer."


''An infinite wave of Crawlers charges John from the bridges.''
''An infinite wave of Crawlers charges the player from the bridges.''


* '''Cortana''': "I'm taking control of the local defense turrets."
* '''Cortana''': "I'm taking control of the local defense turrets."


''Two [[Z-510 focus turret|beam turret]]s slowly charge and fire at the Crawlers. Cortana finishes and her image appears for John to reclaim her.''
''Two [[Z-510 focus turret|beam turret]]s slowly charge and fire at the Crawlers. Cortana finishes and her image appears for the player to reclaim her.''


* '''Cortana''': "''I've got it. I locked him'' out of the system but I don't know for how long!"
* '''Cortana''': "''I've got it. I locked him'' out of the system but I don't know for how long!"
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=== OLD FRIENDS ===
=== OLD FRIENDS ===
''At the end of the platform is a [[man cannon]]. John runs into it, and he shoots forward through a tunnel to float into a large room with [[Twelfth-order escort|Forerunner Escorts]] and [[Aggressor Sentinel]]s. In its center is the machine channeling the Composer. John's HUD flickers during the trip.''
''At the end of the platform is a [[man cannon]]. John runs into it, and he shoots forward through a tunnel to float into a large room with [[Z-330 Forerunner Escort|Forerunner Escorts]] and [[Aggressor Sentinel]]s. In its center is the machine channeling the Composer. John's HUD flickers during the trip.''


* '''Cortana''': "''Chief, once that warhead is primed'', the window for getting out of here is going to be pretty slim."
* '''Cortana''': "''Chief, once that warhead is primed'', the window for getting out of here is going to be pretty slim."
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* '''John-117''': "I know."
* '''John-117''': "I know."


''The room's roof opens up, revealing Earth in the sky above. An enormous [[slipspace portal]] forms in the chasm below the machine.''
''The room's roof opens up, revealing Earth in the sky above. An enormous slipspace portal forms in the chasm below the machine.''


* '''Didact''': "And so, you come at last."
* '''Didact''': "And so, you come at last."
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* '''Didact''': "And yet, still you fail."
* '''Didact''': "And yet, still you fail."


''With a wave of his hand, the Composer activates and fires at Earth, seen in the opening above. The beam strikes [[New Phoenix|in the North American southwest]].''
''With a wave of his hand, the Composer activates and fires at Earth, seen in the slipspace portal above. The beam strikes [[New Phoenix|in the North American southwest]].''


''Didact rises into the beam itself, while enormous energy from it is seen surging below the machine.''
''Didact rises into the beam itself, while enormous energy from it is seen surging below the machine.''


''Cortana turns to face John. John tries to retrieve her, but the terminal suddenly disintegrates, knocking John away and draining his shields.''
''Cortana turns to face John. John tries to retrieve her but the terminal suddenly disintegrates, knocking John away and draining his shields.''


* '''John-117''': "Cortana!"
* '''John-117''': "Cortana!"
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''John stands up and retrieves his weapons. As he runs down the platform, he can hear Cortana whispering in the background. The phrases play at random.''
''John stands up and retrieves his weapons. As he runs down the platform, he can hear Cortana whispering in the background. The phrases play at random.''


* '''Cortana''': ''(whispering)'' "Save me."  
* '''Cortana''': (whispering) "Save me."  


* '''Cortana''': ''(whispering)'' "Destroy it."
* '''Cortana''': (whispering) "Destroy it."


* '''Cortana''': ''(whispering)'' "Take it to the core. ''Destroy it.''"
* '''Cortana''': (whispering) "Take it to the core. ''Destroy it.''"


* '''Cortana''': ''(whispering)'' "I always take care of you."
* '''Cortana''': (whispering) "I always take care of you."


* '''Cortana''': ''(whispering)'' "We will light this."
* '''Cortana''': (whispering) "We will light this."


* '''Cortana''': ''(whispering)'' "Place the bomb in the core."
* '''Cortana''': (whispering) "Place the bomb in the core."


''John returns to the original platform via a man cannon and fights off more Prometheans. Midway through, his HUD flickers more violently than before.''
''John returns to the original platform via a man cannon and fights off more Prometheans. Midway through, his HUD flickers more violently than before.''
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''The current objective notice appears on John's HUD, but rather than an objective, it is a message from Cortana: "It's alright. But you must hurry…" John reaches the gravity lift at the end and is lifted to the light bridge. He runs down it to reach the machine at the end.''
''The current objective notice appears on John's HUD, but rather than an objective, it is a message from Cortana: "It's alright. But you must hurry…" John reaches the gravity lift at the end and is lifted to the light bridge. He runs down it to reach the machine at the end.''


* '''Cortana''': ''(rampant)'' "'''''Prime the nuke'''''... '''''Sa-a-a-ve them'''''. '''''Destroy the Composer'''''."
* '''Cortana''': [rampant] "'''''Prime the nuke'''''... '''''Sa-a-a-ve them'''''. '''''Destroy the Composer'''''."


'''{''Cutscene''}'''
'''{''Cutscene''}'''
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* '''Didact''': "You persist too long after your own defeat."
* '''Didact''': "You persist too long after your own defeat."


[[File:HTMCC-H4 John117VsDidact.png|thumb|275px|The [[Ur-Didact|Didact]] and John-117 facing each other.]]  
[[File:Didact John comparison.png|thumb|275px|The [[Ur-Didact|Didact]] and John-117 facing each other.]]  


''John levels his weapon, but can't see the Didact anywhere. Seemingly alone, he cautiously backs away, then continues down the bridge. Behind him, the Didact floats down.''
''John levels his weapon, but can't see the Didact anywhere. Seemingly alone, he cautiously backs away, then continues down the bridge. Behind him, the Didact floats down.''
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* '''Didact''': "Come then, Warrior. Have your resolution."
* '''Didact''': "Come then, Warrior. Have your resolution."


''John turns to fire on him, but the Didact telekinetically bats him away. John's [[BR85HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] falls off of the bridge and the nuke falls towards the end of it.''
''John turns to fire on him, but the Didact telekinetically bats him away. John's [[BR85HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] falls off the bridge and the nuke falls toward the end of it.''


''John skids to a stop, turns to look at the Didact, then at the nuke. He charges towards the latter, but the Didact once again telekinetically stops his lunge. The Forerunner lifts him into midair and floats John towards him, removing his own helmet as he does so.''
''John skids to a stop, turns to look at the Didact, then at the nuke. He charges toward the latter, but the Didact again telekinetically stops his lunge. The Forerunner lifts him midair and floats John towards him, removing his own helmet as he does so.''


* '''Didact''': "So misguided."
* '''Didact''': "So misguided."
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'''{''Gameplay/quick time event''}'''
'''{''Gameplay/quick time event''}'''


[[File:HTMCC-H4 Didact ChiefPOV.png|thumb|275px|John-117 faces the Didact.]]
[[File:The Didact (player view).png|thumb|275px|John-117 faces the Didact.]]


''John struggles to climb up the edge. His shields are down and don't recharge. After looking down at the Composer's energy below, he pulls himself up and pulls out a [[Z-040 pulse grenade|pulse grenade]]. The Didact is still struggling to free himself.''<br />
''John struggles to climb up the edge. His shields are down and don't recharge. After looking down at the Composer's energy below, he pulls himself up and pulls out a [[Z-040 pulse grenade|pulse grenade]]. The Didact is still struggling to free himself.''<br />
''(If the player fails to climb up in time, the Didact breaks loose from his restraints and telekinetically pushes John off the bridge, and the game reverts to the last checkpoint. If the player does not even attempt to climb, John automatically dies after a certain amount of time and the game resets).''
''(If the player fails to climb up in time, the Didact breaks loose from his restraints and telekinetically pushes John off the bridge, and the game reverts to last checkpoint. If the player does not even attempt to climb, John automatically dies after a certain amount of time and the game resets.)''


''John dashes towards the Didact and plants the grenade in his chest. The Didact breaks free and punches him away at that moment. The Didact again telekinetically strangles John, and the Spartan is about to lose his breath when the pulse grenade detonates. The Didact reels from the blast, loses his balance and falls off the bridge, dropping into the swirling energy below.''<br />
''John dashes toward the Didact and plants the grenade in his chest. The Didact breaks free and punches him away at that moment. The Didact again telekinetically strangles John, and the Spartan is about to lose his breath when the pulse grenade detonates. The Didact reels from the blast, loses his balance and falls off the bridge, dropping into the swirling energy below.''<br />
''(If the player fails to plant the grenade on the Didact, the grenade falls and rolls onto the bridge as Didact telekinetically restrains John and then throws him off of the bridge, and the game reverts to the last checkpoint).''
''(If the player fails to plant the grenade on the Didact, the grenade falls and rolls onto the bridge as Didact telekinetically restrains John and then throws him off the bridge, and the game reverts to last checkpoint).''


''John watches the Didact vanish into the vortex, then groans as he crawls to the HAVOK nuke. He tires and eventually can only pull himself with his arms. Grabbing the nuke and priming it, he looks up at the beam firing on Earth and decides that there's no time to escape. With a loud cry, John punches the bomb to make it immediately explode. Fade to white as the nuke detonates.''<br />
''John watches the Didact vanish into the vortex, then groans as he crawls to the HAVOK bomb. He tires and eventually can only pull himself with his arms. Grabbing the nuke and priming it, he looks up at the beam firing on Earth and decides there's no time to escape. With a loud cry, John punches the bomb to make it immediately explode. Fade to white as the nuke detonates.''<br />
''(If the player fails to reach the bomb or detonate it after a certain period of time, John will automatically die and the game resets to the last checkpoint).''
''(If the player fails to reach the bomb or detonate it after a certain period of time, John will automatically die and the game resets to the last checkpoint.)''


'''{''Cutscene''}'''
'''{''Cutscene''}'''


''John comes to inside of a purple bubble, which seems to be made out of hard light. He looks around him then stands on his feet.''
''John comes to inside a purple bubble, which seems to be made out of hard light. He looks around him then stands on his feet.''


* '''John-117''': "Cortana? Cortana, do you read? Cortana, come in."
* '''John-117''': "Cortana? Cortana, do you read? Cortana, come in."
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''Cortana walks up to him and touches his breastplate. The spot glows in response.''
''Cortana walks up to him and touches his breastplate. The spot glows in response.''


* '''Cortana''': ''(sighs)'' "I've waited so long to do that."
* '''Cortana''': "(''sighs'') I've waited so long to do that."


''John looks away.''
''John looks away.''
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== Trivia ==
== Trivia ==
===Production notes===
=== Behind the scenes ===
* The Didact had the following lines cut from his confrontation with John: "''You have challenged my authority, and for what? A child race unfit to bear the Mantle of Responsibility for the galaxy.''" His model still mouths the words, but this is hidden by the camera angle of the shot.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CibkNQgrbcY '''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4 - Playable Cinematics'']</ref>
* The Didact had the following lines cut from his confrontation with John: "''You have challenged my authority, and for what? A child race unfit to bear the Mantle of Responsibility for the galaxy.''" His model still mouths the words, but this is hidden by the camera angle of the shot.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CibkNQgrbcY '''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4 - Playable Cinematics'']</ref>
* During the recording of Midnight's ending scene, a line spoken by Cortana was removed from the final version. The line was: "''I used to love watching you sleep. Waiting for you to wake up made me feel like anything could happen next.''"<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyHHzoT-sr8 '''YouTube''' - ''Missing dialogue from Halo 4 - Midnight cutscene'']</ref>
* During the recording of Midnight's ending scene, a line spoken by Cortana was removed from the final version. The line was: "''I used to love watching you sleep. Waiting for you to wake up made me feel like anything could happen next.''"<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FyHHzoT-sr8 '''YouTube''' - ''Missing dialogue from Halo 4 - Midnight cutscene'']</ref>
* [[Jen Taylor]] remained unaware of Cortana's fate until just after the last recording she did with [[Steve Downes]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hd0Z2Ok3f1c '''YouTube''' - ''Exclusive Interview with Jenn Taylor (the voice of Cortana) at E3 2013'']</ref>
* [[Jen Taylor]] remained unaware of Cortana's fate until just after the last recording she did with [[Steve Downes]].<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hd0Z2Ok3f1c '''YouTube''' - ''Exclusive Interview with Jenn Taylor (the voice of Cortana) at E3 2013'']</ref>


===Easter eggs===
=== Easter Eggs ===
* On [[Legendary]] difficulty, a second Gravity Hammer can be spawned in the final part of the mission. For more information, see the [[Secret Gravity Hammer on Midnight]] page.<ref name="hammer">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zBL0jpr9rw '''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4 - Secret Gravity Hammer Easter Egg on Midnight'']</ref>
* On [[Legendary]] difficulty, a second Gravity Hammer can be spawned in the final part of the mission. For more information, see the [[Secret Gravity Hammer on Midnight]] page.<ref name="hammer">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1zBL0jpr9rw '''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4 - Secret Gravity Hammer Easter Egg on Midnight'']</ref>


=== Glitches ===
=== Glitches ===
* If the player destroys the particle cannons before destroying the shield generator, the cutscene and dialogue caused by their destruction will not start. Destroying the generator will cause the dialog to play with several seconds between lines; after the last line the cutscene will start. This can be accomplished by shooting through the hole that the energy beam goes through toward the particle cannons. To get a sightline and survive, the player must be just below the cannon and fire as soon as the target is about two meters wide, then pull up.
* If the player destroys the particle cannons before destroying the shield generator, the cutscene and dialog caused by their destruction will not start. Destroying the generator will cause the dialog to play with several seconds between lines; after the last line the cutscene will start. This can be accomplished by shooting through the hole that the energy beam goes through toward the particle cannons. To get a sightline and survive, the player must be just below the cannon and fire as soon as the target is about two meters wide, then pull up.


=== Mistakes ===
=== Mistakes ===
* While this level takes place in July, the northern URNA, primarily [[Canada]], is clearly covered in snow. This is likely a developer oversight as Earth's [[wikipedia:Terminator (solar)|terminator line]] is inconsistent with the summer months. In July, the terminator runs northwest to southeast across North America in the morning, with the northernmost regions experiencing 24-hour sunlight. In-game the terminator runs northeast to southwest with the North Pole bathed in shadow, a phenomenon which occurs only in winter.
* While this level takes place in July, the northern URNA, primarily [[Wikipedia:Canada|Canada]], is clearly covered in snow. This is likely a developer oversight as Earth's [[wikipedia:Terminator (solar)|terminator line]] is inconsistent with the summer months. In July, the terminator runs northwest to southeast across North America in the morning, with the northernmost regions experiencing 24-hour sunlight. In-game the terminator runs northeast to southwest with the North Pole bathed in shadow, a phenomenon which occurs only in winter.
* At roughly 30 miles (48.3 km) long,<ref>[http://www.polycount.com/2012/11/20/the-environment-art-of-halo-4/2/ '''Polycount''' - The Environment Art of ''Halo 4'']</ref> the distance from the level's starting point near the top of the ship to the Composer's location near the bottom is far shorter than the vessel's canonical height (371 kilometers) would entail.<ref name="VIS">'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', page 193</ref> This is likely because the ship was not intended to be so large prior to the official establishment of its size, as evidenced by its scale against other vessels in the game's cutscenes.
* At roughly 30 miles (48.3&nbsp;km) long,<ref>[http://www.polycount.com/2012/11/20/the-environment-art-of-halo-4/2/ '''Polycount''' - The Environment Art of ''Halo 4'']</ref> the distance from the level's starting point near the top of the ship to the Composer's location near the bottom is far shorter than the vessel's canonical height (371 kilometers) would entail.<ref name="VIS">'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', page 193</ref> This is likely because the ship was not intended to be so large prior to the official establishment of its size, as evidenced by its scale against other vessels in the game's cutscenes.
* In the cutscene in which Master Chief crashes the Broadsword, he picks up an assault rifle after attaching the warhead to his back. When gameplay begins, however, he is wielding a [[BR85HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] and a [[M739 SAW|SAW]]. There are also no assault rifles in this mission, and this is the only mission in ''Halo 4'' where he does not start with an assault rifle.
* In the cutscene in which Master Chief crashes the Broadsword, he picks up an assault rifle after attaching the warhead to his back. When gameplay begins, however, he is wielding a [[BR85HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] and a [[M739 SAW|SAW]]. There are also no assault rifles in this mission, and this is the only mission in ''Halo 4'' where he does not start with an assault rifle.
* FLEETCOM is written as "Fleetcom" in subtitles when spoken, but as "FleetCom" when being spoken to.
* [[UNSC Fleet Command|FLEETCOM]] is written as "Fleetcom" in subtitles when spoken, but as "FleetCom" when being spoken to.
* In the Master Chief Collection version, a glitch randomly caused the prompt for planting the grenade in the Didact's chest to read "Press RT to fire machine gun"<ref>{{Plain|[https://youtu.be/zWhQ6RIPW38 '''YouTube''' - ''PRESS RT TO FIRE MACHINE GUN'']}}</ref> (the first prompt when the player uses the Mantis in Infinity). The correct (default) control is LT to throw a grenade.
* In the Master Chief Collection version, a glitch randomly caused the prompt for planting the grenade in the Didact's chest to read "Press RT to fire machine gun"<ref>{{Plain|[https://youtu.be/zWhQ6RIPW38 '''YouTube''' - ''PRESS RT TO FIRE MACHINE GUN'']}}</ref> (the first prompt when the player uses the Mantis in Infinity). The correct (default) control is LT to throw a grenade.
** As of the August 27, 2018 update, this bug has been fixed.
** As of the August 27, 2018 update, this bug has been fixed.
*Master Chief initially addresses Thomas Lasky as a Commander while in the COM, he was written with the rank of Captain. This could be Cortana and John-117 has yet to receive updates from FLEETCOM regarding of Lasky's promotion to Captain.
*Master Chief initially addresses Thomas Lasky as a Commander while in the COM, he was written with the rank of Captain. This could be Cortana and John-117 has yet to receive updates from FLEETCOM regarding of Lasky's promotion to Captain between first Requiem Campaign and New Phoenix Incident.


=== Miscellaneous ===
=== Miscellaneous ===
* This is the only level in ''Halo 4''{{'}}s campaign in which the [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant|Covenant]] are not encountered.
* This is the only level in ''Halo 4''{{'}}s campaign in which the [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant|Covenant]] are not encountered.
* It is possible to [[Midnight vacation|leave the playable area]] in the beginning section of the level.
* It is possible to [[Midnight Vacation|leave the playable area]] in the beginning section of the level.
* This level features the first playable section in the ''Halo'' series to take place in [[slipstream space|slipspace]], which is depicted as a bright haze of luminous, predominantly blue-tinted streaks reflecting various colors across the visible spectrum, a departure from the general description of slipspace as pitch-black emptiness. A similar effect is seen when the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} is seen traveling through slipspace in [[S1/Departure|first episode]] of ''[[Spartan Ops]]''. Although this may be an instance of artistic license to make slipspace more visually appealing and to convey the movement of ships traveling within, the effect may also be produced by Forerunner slipspace drive architecture or other trait different from previously observed human and Covenant ships. It is known that dimensions exist within the range of slipspace that have a visible appearance of bluish fog; a [[Forerunner crystal]] caused the ''[[Ascendant Justice]]'' to transition into such an alternate slipspace.
* This level features the first playable section in the ''Halo'' series to take place in [[slipstream space|slipspace]], which is depicted as a bright haze of luminous, predominantly blue-tinted streaks reflecting various colors across the visible spectrum, a departure from the general description of slipspace as pitch-black emptiness. A similar effect is seen when the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} is seen traveling through slipspace in [[S1/Departure|first episode]] of ''[[Spartan Ops]]''. Although this may be an instance of artistic license to make slipspace more visually appealing and to convey the movement of ships traveling within, the effect may also be produced by Forerunner slipspace drive architecture or other trait different from previously observed human and Covenant ships. It is known that dimensions exist within the range of slipspace that have a visible appearance of bluish fog; a [[Forerunner crystal]] caused the ''[[Ascendant Justice]]'' to transition into such an alternate slipspace.
* The Didact is defeated through a quicktime event, similar to how the player must defeat the [[Sangheili]] in the elevator shaft in ''[[Dawn]]''. In this sense, the very first and very last enemies in the game are defeated through quicktime events. Both events end with the enemy falling down from great heights.
* The Didact is defeated through a quicktime event, similar to how the player must defeat the [[Sangheili]] in the elevator shaft in ''[[Dawn (level)|Dawn]]''. In this sense, the very first and very last enemies in the game are defeated through quicktime events. Both events end with the enemy falling down from great heights.
* Throughout the level while the player's on the Didact's ship a notification reading Nuclear Device Acquired can be seen in the top right corner of the screen beneath the weapons display along with a small radiation symbol.
* Throughout the level while the player's on the Didact's ship a notification reading Nuclear Device Acquired can be seen in the top right corner of the screen beneath the weapons display along with a small radiation symbol.
* No matter what weapon the player has beforehand, when the Master Chief faces off against the Didact he is armed with a [[BR85HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] even if that's not part of the player's arsenal.
* No matter what weapon the player has beforehand, when the Master Chief faces off against the Didact he is armed with a [[BR85HB battle rifle|battle rifle]] even if that's not part of the player's arsenal.
* On co-op, it's possible to cut the time faster, especially if the players are the team of speedrunners. Have the team split up into two teams, clear up the towers, and insert Cortana. Note that the player must not die since there is a chance that the player could respawn on the opposite side.


=== References ===
=== References ===
{{Ref/Sources}}
* The Broadsword sequence is clearly inspired by the [[starwars:Trench run|trench run]] [[starwars:Battle of Yavin|on the Death Star]] in ''[[starwars:Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope|Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope]]''. Like [[starwars:Luke Skywalker|Luke Skywalker]], John-117 must pilot a one-man fighter through a system of narrow chasms, (dodging point-defense fire along the way), to destroy a superweapon. He cannot travel above the surface of the trench because the Broadsword cannot survive in slipspace, much as Luke must stay below the minimum angle of the Death Star's surface guns. Both protagonists receive timely assistance from allied ships, clearing a path to their objectives, which allows them to destroy their respective targets. Both John and Skywalker are greeted by honor guards after rendezvousing with their peers.
* The Broadsword sequence is clearly inspired by the [[starwars:Trench run|trench run]] [[starwars:Battle of Yavin|on the Death Star]] in ''[[starwars:Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope|Star Wars Episode IV: A New Hope]]''. Like [[starwars:Luke Skywalker|Luke Skywalker]], John-117 must pilot a one-man fighter through a system of narrow chasms, (dodging point-defense fire along the way), to destroy a superweapon. He cannot travel above the surface of the trench because the Broadsword cannot survive in slipspace, much as Luke must stay below the minimum angle of the Death Star's surface guns. Both protagonists receive timely assistance from allied ships, clearing a path to their objectives, which allows them to destroy their respective targets. Both John and Skywalker are greeted by honor guards after rendezvousing with their peers.
* The scene in which the Composer is fired on New Phoenix resembles the ''[[memory-alpha:Narada|Narada]]''{{'}}s attacks on [[memory-alpha:Vulcan (alternate reality)|Vulcan]] and [[memory-alpha:Starfleet Academy|Starfleet Academy]] in the 2009 film [[memory-alpha:Star Trek (film)|''Star Trek'']]. The camera angle in [[:File:H4-ComposerFiringOnPhoenix.jpg|this sequence]] is nearly identical to the [[memory-alpha:File:Narada drill platform over San Francisco.jpg|establishing shot]] of ''Narada''{{'}}s drill platform over San Francisco, albeit mirrored. The continous orange beams fired by the Composer and the ''Narada'' also look very similar.
* The scene in which the Composer is fired on New Phoenix resembles the ''[[memory-alpha:Narada|Narada]]''{{'}} attacks on [[memory-alpha:Vulcan (alternate reality)|Vulcan]] and [[memory-alpha:Starfleet Academy|Starfleet Academy]] in the 2009 film [[memory-alpha:Star Trek (film)|''Star Trek'']]. The camera angle in [[:File:H4-ComposerFiringOnPhoenix.jpg|this sequence]] is nearly identical to the [[memory-alpha:File:Narada drill platform over San Francisco.jpg|establishing shot]] of ''Narada''{{'}}s drill platform over San Francisco, albeit mirrored. The continous orange beams fired by the Composer and the ''Narada'' also look very similar.
* The scene in which the Didact falls into the slipspace portal is reminiscent of the death of [[wikipedia:Palpatine|Emperor Palpatine]] in ''[[wikipedia:Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi|Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi]]''.
* The scene in which the Didact falls into the slipspace portal is reminiscent of the death of [[wikipedia:Palpatine|Emperor Palpatine]] in ''[[wikipedia:Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi|Star Wars Episode VI: Return of the Jedi]]''.
* The man cannon that launches John into the final section of the level is reminiscent of the end of the level ''[[High Charity (level)|High Charity]]'' from ''Halo 2''. In that level, John enters a gravity conduit to board the [[Prophet of Truth]]'s [[Keyship]].
* The man cannon that launches John into the final section of the level is reminiscent of the end of the level ''[[High Charity (level)|High Charity]]'' from ''Halo 2''. In that level, John enters a gravity conduit to board the [[Prophet of Truth]]'s [[Keyship]].


== Gallery ==
== Gallery ==
===Concept art===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:H4 Midnight Concept Art.jpg|Midnight concept art.
File:H4 Midnight Concept Art.jpg|Midnight concept art.
File:H4-Concept-Mantle-Interior.jpg|Concept art of the interior of the ''Mantle's Approach''.
File:H4-Concept-Mantle-Interior.jpg|Concept art of the interior of the ''Mantle's Approach''.
File:H4-Concept-Midnight-Composer.jpg|Concept art of the Composer being aimed at Earth.
File:H4-Concept-Midnight-Composer.jpg|Concept art of the Composer being aimed at Earth.
File:H4 MidnightSpaceBattle Concept.jpg|Concept art of Battle Group Dakota engaged in combat with ''Mantle's Approach''.
</gallery>
===Storyboards===
<gallery>
File:H4 Midnight DidactKill Storyboard.jpg|Original storyboard of the Didact's defeat.
File:H4 DidactDefeat Storyboard 1.jpg|An FX concept storyboard exploring how Cortana's visualisation might look.
File:H4 DidactDefeat Storyboard 2.jpg|An FX concept storyboard exploring how Cortana's visualisation might look.
File:H4_DidactDefeat_Storyboard_Animated.gif|An animated exploration of the effect for Cortana reappearing. Note the spread of Cortana's appearance into the light bridge itself.
File:H4-Concept-Finale-Pickup.jpg|Concept art depicting John-117 being recovered.
File:H4-Concept-Finale-Pickup.jpg|Concept art depicting John-117 being recovered.
File:H4-Concept-Lastcutscene.jpg|Storyboards of the final cutscene.
File:H4-Concept-Lastcutscene.jpg|Storyboards of the final cutscene.
</gallery>
===Screenshots===
<gallery>
File:H4-F41BroadswordXMSF-Side.jpg|Chief's Broadsword being prepared.
File:H4-F41BroadswordXMSF-Side.jpg|Chief's Broadsword being prepared.
File:F-41 Broadsword.png|The Broadsword being equipped with a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon|HAVOK nuke]].
File:F-41 Broadsword.png|The Broadsword being equipped with a [[HAVOK tactical nuclear weapon|HAVOK nuke]].
File:H4-Midnight-Trench.jpg|A view of the trench in which the Broadsword flies through.
File:H4-Midnight-Trench.jpg|A view of the trench in which the Broadsword gets through.
File:HTMCC-H4 PressKit ChiefLightRifle.jpg|John-117 with an [[Z-250 lightrifle]].
File:H4-Didact.jpg|The Ur-Didact clenches his fist.
File:H4-HardlightEnergyBridge.jpg|The [[light bridge]] leading to the Composer.
File:H4-HardlightEnergyBridge.jpg|The [[light bridge]] leading to the Composer.
File:HTMCC-H4 PressKit LightBridge.jpg|John-117 [[sprint]]ing towards the Ur-Didact.
File:H4-Midnight-Composer-Panorama.jpg|The Composer is used on Earth.
File:H4-Midnight-Composer-Panorama.jpg|The Composer is used on Earth.
</gallery>
</gallery>
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{{succession box | before = ''[[Composer (level)|Composer]]'' <br />| title = ''Halo 4'' Campaign Missions | years = '''''Midnight''''' |after = ''[[Epilogue (Halo 4 level)|Epilogue]]''}}
{{succession box | before = ''[[Composer (level)|Composer]]'' <br />| title = ''Halo 4'' Campaign Missions | years = '''''Midnight''''' |after = ''[[Epilogue (Halo 4 level)|Epilogue]]''}}
{{Levels|H4}}
{{Level|H4}}
[[Category:Halo 4 campaign]]
[[Category:Halo 4 Campaign]]

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