Trilogy
After the stars fell
Write a story after the happily ever after I often wondered what love is. Is it truly the warm, fuzzy emotions that ooze out of true mirth of care and adore, or is it a product of prevalent capitalism that exists within our world? That makes it easy for the consumeristic and hyperagile construct to sell products to the humans as a marketing tactic, to slip in through the psyche of innocent minds, to create a buzz, to find their weaklings and exploit them for company profits and expansions. I still find myself wondering what love is, pondering over that thought.
By Hridya Sharma9 months ago in Chapters
Jasson Dominguez belts three homers as Yankees roll past A's
Jasson Dominguez Belts Three Homers as Yankees Roll Past A's OAKLAND, CA — Jasson Dominguez delivered a performance for the ages on Friday night, smashing three home runs and driving in six runs to lead the New York Yankees to a dominant 10–3 victory over the Oakland Athletics at the Coliseum.
By Rasel Ahmed9 months ago in Chapters
Roundball Rocked: With NBA Return Looming, NBC Purges Scripted Roster
NBC is making a significant shift in its programming strategy as it prepares for the return of NBA broadcasts in the 2025–26 season. The network is reportedly reducing its scripted content to accommodate a robust slate of live basketball coverage, marking a major pivot in its primetime lineup.
By Rasel Ahmed9 months ago in Chapters
2025 India-Pakistan War: Nuclear Tensions, Drone Strikes & Global Concerns
The 2025 India-Pakistan War: A Chronicle of Escalation, Misrepresentation, and Human Suffering Introduction: A Spark Ignited into a BlazeThe long-standing tensions between India and Pakistan flared into open conflict once again in early 2025, marking one of the most dangerous military confrontations in South Asia since the Kargil War of 1999. Though diplomatic channels existed, the failure of backdoor negotiations, escalations on the Line of Control, and cross-border skirmishes rapidly spiraled into a full-blown war. Both nations, armed with powerful conventional and nuclear forces, have now plunged into a dangerously volatile phase with high civilian casualties and a complete breakdown of bilateral trust. A Timeline of Escalations: From Border Skirmishes to Full-Scale Airstrikes The conflict began with intense artillery exchanges across the Line of Control (LoC) in January 2025. Indian forces accused Pakistan of harboring militants involved in attacks on Indian military installations in Jammu and Kashmir. In response, Pakistan denied the allegations and accused India of fabricating justifications for cross-border aggression. By February 2025, India launched multiple airstrikes, claiming to target terror camps in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and deeper into Pakistan’s Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa provinces. However, independent sources and on-ground reports revealed that the targets were not militant hideouts but civilian areas. The most alarming attack took place in the city of Bhakkar, where missiles struck a crowded mosque during Friday prayers, killing at least 58 civilians and injuring over 100. India's official statement referred to the site as a "radical training compound," but satellite imagery and third-party assessments confirmed that the location had no military significance. In retaliation, Pakistan launched a series of precision strikes on Indian army bunkers along the LoC and deep into Indian territory in Rajasthan and Punjab. The Pakistani government maintained that all its operations were strictly military in nature, targeting ammunition depots, radar installations, and logistic hubs. The False Narrative of 'Counter-Terrorism': India’s Claim vs. Ground Reality One of the most disturbing aspects of this conflict has been the dissemination of misleading narratives. India has consistently claimed that its airstrikes and missile attacks are aimed at "neutralizing terrorist threats." However, detailed independent investigations by international observers, including UN satellite surveillance teams and journalists from neutral countries, contradict this claim. The village of Kot Azam in South Punjab was obliterated by an Indian missile on March 3rd. Indian media stated it was a hub of Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives, yet the only buildings destroyed were a government school, a maternity clinic, and residential homes. Of the 39 casualties, 21 were women and children. This pattern repeats across multiple strike zones: Charsadda, Faisalabad outskirts, and even a refugee camp in Tharparkar, where hundreds of displaced Kashmiris were temporarily housed. India has refused to allow foreign journalists into the targeted areas under its control, raising further questions about the credibility of its public statements. Conversely, Pakistan has facilitated limited access to global media and aid organizations, albeit under military escort, showing scenes of widespread devastation in civilian zones. A Section Without Headings: The Faces Behind the Statistics The impact of this war cannot be measured solely in numbers or strategic gains. Beyond the military movements and political declarations lies a human catastrophe that both governments have failed to adequately address. In the narrow lanes of Chakwal, where a missile hit a religious seminary, the remains of children’s books, blood-stained prayer rugs, and shattered windows tell a tale that no press release can capture. Twelve children under the age of ten were killed, along with their teacher. Their parents now sit beside the rubble in silent mourning, the sound of jet engines overhead reminding them that peace is nowhere in sight. In Umerkot, where a convoy of Indian missiles hit a rural farming community, farmers who had never seen a gun in their lives now bury their dead in fields once ripe with wheat. "They said there were terrorists among us," says an elderly man who lost three grandsons. "But the only thing we were growing was grain, not hatred." Meanwhile, in Amritsar, an Indian army base was targeted by Pakistani drones. A young Indian soldier, who had just returned from leave, was among the dead. His brother, speaking to media in a hushed voice, said, “He never wanted war. He was just doing his duty.” These are not stories of enemy combatants; they are stories of sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, who are casualties in a war waged over narratives and power, not justice or survival. The Role of International Community: Silent Spectators or Strategic Players? The United Nations, despite urgent calls from both governments, has largely limited its involvement to issuing appeals for restraint. China and Russia have taken neutral stances publicly but are reportedly engaged in secret diplomacy with both sides. The United States has shown vocal support for India in its public statements, referring to India’s “right to self-defense,” but has privately expressed concern over the credibility of the intelligence guiding India’s strikes. Iran and Turkey have condemned Indian aggression, particularly highlighting the attacks on mosques and civilian homes. On the other hand, the European Union has proposed the formation of a South Asian Peace Commission to monitor the conflict and negotiate a ceasefire, though the proposal remains unapproved by both New Delhi and Islamabad. Pakistan’s Strategic and Moral Positioning in the Conflict Pakistan has tried to maintain a defensive posture, emphasizing sovereignty and protection of its population rather than seeking territorial gain. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his address to the nation, declared, “We do not seek war, but we will not let injustice befall our people without consequence.” He further stressed the importance of unity, media integrity, and national resilience. Pakistan’s military strategy has so far avoided densely populated Indian cities, instead focusing on military logistics and air bases. Analysts suggest that Pakistan’s deliberate avoidance of civilian targets may serve to bolster its international legitimacy and moral standing. The Propaganda War: Misinformation, Digital Chaos, and Media Blackouts Another dimension of this war is being fought online. Social media platforms have become battlegrounds for misinformation, doctored videos, and psychological warfare. Indian state media has repeatedly aired footage of alleged terror compounds that upon scrutiny were either outdated, misrepresented, or entirely fictional. On the Pakistani side, national channels have focused on humanitarian tragedies, but sometimes exaggerated figures have raised concerns about factual accuracy. Internet blackouts in Kashmir, Punjab, and parts of Sindh have further clouded the ability of citizens to communicate or report events firsthand. The manipulation of information, suppression of voices, and the use of media to fuel public anger pose a long-term threat even greater than military casualties—eroding trust, fueling nationalism, and obstructing future peace.
By Umair Ali Shah 9 months ago in Chapters
The Future of Artificial Intelligence: How AI is Shaping Our World
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a futuristic concept—it's a transformative force that is already reshaping industries across the globe. From healthcare to transportation, AI is making waves by improving efficiency, enhancing decision-making, and creating entirely new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike. But how exactly is AI revolutionizing these sectors? Let’s take a closer look at how AI is not just changing the way industries operate but also transforming the way we live and work.
By Omar Samim10 months ago in Chapters
Between Two Realms
Chapter 1: The Maiden of Eldoria In the heart of the human kingdom of Eldoria, there lived a maiden whose beauty was said to rival the dawn. Her name was Elira, a young woman of unmatched grace, with eyes as deep as the midnight sky and hair that shimmered like woven gold. The people of Eldoria often whispered that the gods had blessed her, for no other mortal possessed such ethereal charm. Elira lived a simple yet fulfilling life, tending to her family’s modest trade. She was a merchant, selling finely crafted fabrics and delicate jewelry. Despite her beauty, she was known not for vanity but for her kindness and intelligence. Suitors from near and far sought her hand, yet she turned them all away, believing that love should not be rushed but found in its own time. The young King Aldric, who had only recently ascended the throne after his father’s passing, was among those who admired her. His rule was still fragile, and though he had a kingdom to govern, his heart found itself drawn to Elira. He watched her from afar, entranced by the way she carried herself with quiet confidence. She was not of noble blood, yet she seemed more regal than any princess he had met. Meanwhile, in the unseen realm beyond the human world, another pair of eyes watched her just as intently—Kaelen, the newly crowned Spirit King. Kaelen’s kingdom was one of mist and whispers, where spirits roamed unseen and ancient forces governed all. He had long been fascinated by the human world, often crossing the veil to observe their ways. And from the moment he laid eyes on Elira, he knew he wanted her. Not as a fleeting curiosity, but as his queen. But where Aldric sought love, Kaelen saw possession. Where Aldric wished to win her heart, Kaelen intended to take it by any means necessary. Chapter 2: The Spirit King’s Obsession Kaelen had watched Elira for years, his presence unseen, his desire growing with each passing day. Unlike mortals, spirits did not age as humans did, and time had only deepened his fascination. He had studied her, learned the sound of her laughter, the rhythm of her steps, the way the sunlight kissed her skin. She was unlike any woman he had ever encountered, and for the first time in his immortal existence, he longed for something beyond his world. But spirits and humans were never meant to coexist. The realm of spirits was a place of shadows and illusions, bound by laws older than time itself. The kings of his kind were forbidden from interfering with the mortal world beyond mere observation. Yet Kaelen was not like his ancestors. He had inherited the throne after his father’s sudden demise, and unlike the rulers before him, he believed that rules were meant to be broken. One evening, as twilight bathed the human world in golden hues, Kaelen took on a human form. His silver eyes dimmed to a deep gray, his pale skin warmed to the color of sun-kissed bronze, and his long, flowing hair darkened to the shade of midnight. Cloaked in secrecy, he stepped into the marketplace of Eldoria, blending in among the mortals. He approached Elira’s stall, where she sold her precious fabrics and trinkets. She greeted him with a smile, the same way she did with all her customers, unaware of the danger that lurked beneath his charming façade. “I would like to purchase some of your finest silks,” he said, his voice smooth like flowing water. Elira, unaware of his true nature, nodded and began showing him her wares. Kaelen listened to her speak, enthralled by the warmth in her tone. He watched the delicate way her fingers moved as she handled the fabrics, and he felt an unfamiliar sensation within him—impatience. He had waited long enough. After selecting a generous amount of goods, Kaelen spoke again. “I am a traveler from a distant land. I do not carry coin, but I assure you, I will pay you handsomely. Meet me at the edge of the Eldermere Forest at midnight, and I shall give you more than what your wares are worth.” Elira hesitated. She had never done business in such a manner before. Something about the stranger unsettled her, though she could not quite place why. But the promise of payment was too great to ignore—her family needed the money. Reluctantly, she agreed. Kaelen smiled, knowing that the first step of his plan had fallen perfectly into place. Chapter 3: A Price for Love As the night deepened, a thick mist curled through Eldermere Forest, wrapping around the ancient trees like ghostly fingers. The moon cast an eerie glow upon the path as Elira approached the meeting place. She clutched her shawl tightly around her shoulders, her heart pounding with unease. She had debated whether to come at all. There was something unsettling about the stranger—his eyes, his voice, the way he had watched her. But the promise of wealth had outweighed her fear. She needed the money to care for her aging mother, to expand her business, to secure a better future. A cold wind whispered through the trees, carrying with it a voice. “You came.” Elira turned sharply. Kaelen stood before her, his presence seeming almost unreal in the moonlight. He was no longer dressed as a common traveler but wore robes woven with threads that shimmered like liquid silver. His appearance was impossibly perfect—his sharp features, his commanding stance, his eyes that gleamed like polished steel. “Where is my payment?” she asked, forcing herself to stand firm. Kaelen smiled, his expression unreadable. “Come with me, and I will give you more than you could ever imagine.” Elira hesitated. “Come with you where?” “To my kingdom,” he said, his voice smooth and persuasive. “I am no ordinary man, Elira. I am a king. I rule a land far beyond this one—a place of wonders, of riches beyond comprehension. You need only step forward, and everything you have ever wanted will be yours.” Something inside her screamed no, but curiosity and greed warred against her instincts. A king? If he truly was royalty, then he had the power to change her life forever. She could live in a palace, never have to struggle again. “How do I know you are telling the truth?” she asked. Kaelen extended a hand. “Let me show you.” The air around him shimmered, and behind him, a portal of swirling darkness opened between the trees. A gust of wind surged from it, carrying scents unlike anything Elira had ever known—exotic, intoxicating, forbidden. Her breath caught In her throat. This is madness. This is impossible. “You have nothing to fear,” Kaelen assured her. “Step through, and all shall be revealed.” Elira’s pulse pounded in her ears. She had come for money, not for magic. Not for this. But the temptation pulled at her, an irresistible force she did not understand. She took a deep breath. And then—she stepped through.
By adebayo omobolarinwa10 months ago in Chapters
