Young Adult

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
The Conduit: Chapter 12
A storm with eighty-mile-an-hour winds whipped into the cavern, rustling the tents at basecamp and keeping their occupants from getting much sleep. Jonas sat at a computer watching the images from the drone flights over the barrier around the second structure inside the mountain. The second structure was the mystery.
By Jason Ray Morton 9 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 Price of Greed"
In the heart of an old village nestled between mountains and rivers lived a man named Gafur. He was once a kind-hearted cobbler, known for his warm smile and generous hands. Though he had little, he shared whatever he had. But time, loneliness, and hardship turned his heart cold—and his soul restless.
By Muhammad Imran9 months ago in Chapters
Harper's Hill, Chapter 27: The Hidden Journal
Camille knew a ghost was following her, but she didn't know why. She had been experiencing more supernatural events lately... The clocks stopping at particular times, animals looking at her weirdly, but mostly, she had been seeing a woman. This woman looked so familiar to her, but she couldn't put her finger on it.
By Amanda Doyle9 months ago in Chapters
When the World Moves On and You’re Still Stuck
The world clapped when Arman threw his graduation cap in the air. Cameras flashed. Smiles bloomed. A degree in his hand, hope in his eyes. That day, everything felt possible.
By Maaz Ahmad9 months ago in Chapters
1/0: Entries from the End Times
“I’ll quit.” I stopped sipping the rich, white broth directly from the well. “I’ll quit,” Etan repeated through a mouthful of tender dark meat he’d torn from the chicken’s leg. “I’ve let you down twice now, and I’ll be damned – well, I am damned – I’ll be double damned if I do it a third time.” He reached out to place a reassuring hand on my upper arm, but then immediately retracted it as if he were a leper and he didn’t want to infect me with his touch. “I’m telling you, so you’ll hold me to it. I’ll quit.”
By Wen Xiaosheng9 months ago in Chapters
Reverse Heist – Part 2 ;The Plan No One Wants to Follow
The four of them sat inside a quiet van, parked a block away from the museum. No one was speaking. The weight of what they were about to do sat heavy in the air.
By Daniel Henry9 months ago in Chapters
Did Kareena Kapoor Khan Take a Subtle Dig at Priyanka Chopra?
Did Kareena Kapoor Khan Take a Subtle Dig at Priyanka Chopra? The world of Bollywood has always been a hotspot for glamorous friendships, infamous rivalries, and subtle shade. Among the most talked-about relationships in the industry is the one between Kareena Kapoor Khan and Priyanka Chopra Jonas. While the two leading ladies have shared the screen in films like Aitraaz, their personal equation has often been the subject of speculation. Recently, buzz has been growing around a possible subtle dig Kareena may have taken at Priyanka, reigniting old conversations about their past jibes and current dynamics. The Statement That Sparked Speculation During a recent promotional interview for her upcoming film, Kareena Kapoor Khan was asked about the trend of Indian celebrities settling abroad. While the actress tried to keep her tone neutral, one particular line caught attention: > “I believe in staying grounded in my roots. Mumbai is my home. I don’t feel the need to go halfway across the world to prove myself.” Although Kareena didn’t mention anyone by name, fans and media outlets were quick to interpret this as a veiled reference to Priyanka Chopra, who has been living in the United States since her Hollywood debut. With Priyanka’s growing global presence — including her roles in Quantico, Citadel, and major Hollywood films — Kareena’s comment seemed to hint at the contrast in their choices. A History of Subtle Tensions This isn’t the first time the actresses have made headlines for comments about one another. Their off-screen relationship has had moments of both friendliness and frosty tension. Years ago, during an episode of Koffee with Karan, Kareena jokingly asked Priyanka, “Where did you get that accent from?” referring to Priyanka’s slight American twang after her international debut. Priyanka clapped back in a later episode, saying, “The same place her boyfriend gets it from,” pointing at Kareena’s then-partner and now-husband, Saif Ali Khan, who has often been noted for his British accent. These back-and-forth remarks may have been lighthearted on the surface, but they gave fans a glimpse of the competitive undercurrents between the two stars. Different Paths, Same Spotlight Kareena and Priyanka represent two different kinds of Bollywood success. Kareena, born into the legendary Kapoor family, is Bollywood royalty. Her journey has largely been India-centric, with consistent roles in Hindi films and a well-established presence in the industry. Priyanka, on the other hand, carved out her own path from Miss World to Bollywood stardom and then went global. Marrying American pop star Nick Jonas and moving to Los Angeles, she has managed to maintain her Bollywood ties while expanding her brand internationally. Their differing career paths have often invited comparisons — intentional or not — and statements like Kareena’s are quickly analyzed for subtext. Fans Divided on Social Media Following Kareena’s interview, social media lit up with mixed reactions. Some praised Kareena for staying true to her culture and roots, calling her words “refreshing” and “grounded.” Others accused her of taking an unnecessary jab at Priyanka, suggesting that the remark was a sign of underlying jealousy or discomfort with Priyanka’s international success. Twitter and Instagram were flooded with posts like: “Kareena is just being real. Not everyone wants to chase Hollywood.” “That’s definitely shade. Why bring up moving abroad at all?” “Priyanka made India proud globally. Why try to downplay that?” Clearly, the debate touched a nerve with fans of both stars. Could It Just Be Misinterpretation? While it’s tempting to jump to conclusions, it’s also possible that Kareena’s words were misinterpreted. The actress is known for her bluntness, and she has often expressed a preference for staying close to home, especially after becoming a mother. It’s feasible that her comments were more about her personal values than a dig at anyone in particular. Moreover, Bollywood interviews are often framed in ways that provoke sensational headlines. Unless either actress addresses the comment directly, any assumptions remain speculative. Priyanka’s Response — Or Lack Thereof As of now, Priyanka Chopra has not responded to Kareena’s statement. Known for her poised public image, Priyanka rarely engages in media-driven drama. Her focus remains on her upcoming projects and family life in the U.S. If she does choose to reply, it’s likely to be as witty and sharp as her past responses — but fans might be in for a long wait. Conclusion Whether or not Kareena Kapoor Khan intended to shade Priyanka Chopra, her comments have once again highlighted the complex dynamics between Bollywood’s leading ladies. In an industry where every word is dissected and every move is scrutinized, it's hard to separate genuine opinions from veiled digs. Regardless of the intent, one thing is certain — the Kareena-Priyanka saga continues to intrigue fans, proving that in Bollywood, subtlety can speak volumes.
By Sabrina 9 months ago in Chapters
Shah Rukh Khan Opens Up About the ‘Insider-Outsider’ Debate: "I Lost a Family in 24 Hours"
Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, often called the "King of Bollywood," has remained largely silent on the controversial insider-outsider debate that has haunted the Hindi film industry in recent years. However, in a rare moment of vulnerability, Khan recently admitted that the topic deeply troubles him—and that he has experienced personal loss in ways most fans don’t know. During a candid interaction at a recent event, Shah Rukh Khan opened up about the mental and emotional weight he carries when it comes to the insider-outsider issue in Bollywood. His words were poignant: “I have a problem with this debate. I lost a family in 24 hours. I know what it feels like to be on the outside. I also know what it takes to keep standing.” From Outsider to Icon Shah Rukh Khan’s journey from a middle-class Delhi boy to the most celebrated superstar in Indian cinema is often cited as the ultimate outsider success story. With no connections in the film industry, Khan began his career with television serials like Fauji and Circus, before making a sensational entry into Bollywood with Deewana in 1992. Over the next three decades, he became the face of Indian cinema, representing dreams, aspirations, and love for millions around the world. Despite his superstar status, Khan has often been viewed as the exception in an industry where family lineage and connections are considered pathways to success. The insider-outsider debate intensified after the tragic suicide of actor Sushant Singh Rajput in 2020, sparking widespread discussions on nepotism, mental health, and the pressures of the film industry. While many celebrities took to social media to voice their opinions, Shah Rukh remained noticeably silent—until now. A Personal Loss Without naming anyone specifically, Shah Rukh shared a deeply emotional anecdote. “When people talk about being insiders and outsiders, they forget that life doesn’t ask who you are before it gives you pain. I lost someone I considered family in less than 24 hours. The grief doesn’t ask whether you're a star or a struggler.” His words struck a chord with many, especially those who have followed his life journey closely. It is known that Khan has faced multiple personal tragedies, including the early death of his parents. The actor has also seen the dark side of fame, with constant media scrutiny and the burden of high expectations. No Easy Answers Khan emphasized that the film industry, like any other, is a complicated space. “It's not black and white. Talent, luck, timing—they all matter. Yes, some people have easier starts, but everyone has to fight to stay relevant. The audience is the biggest judge, not the industry,” he said. He acknowledged that the industry does have biases and that gatekeeping exists, but he also urged aspiring actors not to give up. “If I could make it without any background, so can others. The journey may be hard, but dreams are meant to be chased. No one can stop you if you believe in yourself.” On Mentoring Newcomers Interestingly, Khan also revealed that he actively tries to support new talent. “I always tell young actors: don’t be afraid to be different. I didn’t look like a hero when I started. I wasn’t tall enough, fair enough, or conventional enough. But I had fire. And sometimes, that’s enough.” He spoke of how he has opened doors for new writers, directors, and actors through his production company, Red Chillies Entertainment. “Giving someone a chance doesn’t mean guaranteeing success. But it means giving them space to try, to fail, and to grow.” Mental Health in the Spotlight Touching upon the psychological pressure in the industry, Khan called for more compassion and understanding. “This profession is beautiful, but it’s also brutal. Rejection, isolation, and judgment are daily realities. We need to create a culture where people feel safe talking about their struggles. Not just actors—everyone on set matters.” He advocated for mental health support mechanisms within the industry and encouraged conversations around emotional well-being. A Message of Hope Concluding his thoughts, Shah Rukh said, “Labels like insider and outsider divide us. But art is meant to unite. If you have a story to tell, this industry has a place for you. It may not come easy, but it will come.” As always, Shah Rukh Khan’s words were marked by humility, depth, and an underlying sense of hope. At a time when Bollywood continues to face criticism and introspection, voices like his serve as a reminder that the path to change is through empathy, honesty, and support for one another.
By Sabrina 9 months ago in Chapters
Microsoft Warns All Windows Users—
Microsoft Warns All Windows Users—Delete Your Password May 2, 2025 — In a bold flow to redefine cybersecurity, Microsoft is now urging all Windows users to ditch traditional passwords in choose of extra comfy, cutting-edge authentication techniques. The agency’s new message is apparent: “Delete your password.”
By R. Howlader9 months ago in Chapters