*DIABETES*
Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels, often leading to damage to the heart, blood vessels, eyes, kidneys, and nerves.

The main types of diabetes include type 1,
type 2, and gestational diabetes.

Types of Diabetes:

*Type 1 Diabetes:*
This type is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, resulting in little to no insulin production.
It often develops in childhood or adolescence but can occur at any age.


*Type 2 Diabetes:*
In this type, the body either doesn't produce enough insulin or its cells don't respond properly to insulin (insulin resistance). This leads to a buildup of glucose in the bloodstream.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common type and usually develops in adulthood, but it can also occur in children.

*Gestational Diabetes:*
This type develops during pregnancy and typically resolves after childbirth. However, women who have gestational diabetes have a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.

*Prediabetes:*
This is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Individuals with prediabetes are at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Treating diabetes involves a multifaceted approach, including lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise, and often requires medication, such as insulin or non-insulin antihyperglycemic agents. The specific formulation used depends on the type of diabetes and individual patient needs.

Types of Diabetes and Treatment Approaches:
Type 1 Diabetes:
Primarily requires insulin therapy due to the body's inability to produce insulin. Insulin is administered through injections or an insulin pump, mimicking the natural function of the pancreas.

Type 2 Diabetes:
Often managed initially with diet and exercise, but may require medication as well. Medications can include oral antidiabetic drugs (e.g., sulfonylureas, metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists) or insulin therapy.

Gestational Diabetes:
Usually managed with diet, exercise, and potentially insulin, especially if blood sugar levels are not controlled.

Formulation Methods:
Diet and Exercise:
These play a crucial role in managing blood sugar levels, improving insulin sensitivity, and promoting overall health.

Insulin Therapy:
Involves administering insulin to lower blood sugar levels. Different types of insulin are available, including short-acting, rapid-acting, and long-acting options, and are chosen based on individual needs.

Non-Insulin Antihyperglycemic Medications:
These drugs work in different ways to lower blood sugar levels, such as by increasing insulin production, improving insulin sensitivity, or slowing down glucose absorption.
Other Treatments:
May include therapies like islet cell transplantation (a more advanced treatment that restores insulin-producing cells) or insulin pumps (devices that deliver insulin continuously, mimicking the body's natural function).

Example of a Formulation (Combination Therapy):
A common approach for type 2 diabetes is a combination of oral antidiabetic medications (like metformin) and insulin, used when oral medications alone are not sufficient to control blood sugar.

Some formulations may also include other treatments like GLP-1 receptor agonists, which can help improve blood sugar control and may also lead to weight loss.

Important Considerations:
Individualized Treatment:
The specific formulation used should be tailored to each patient's individual needs, taking into account factors like their age, other health conditions, and medication preferences.

Monitoring and Adjustments:
Regular blood sugar monitoring and follow-up appointments are essential to ensure the formulation is working effectively and to make necessary adjustments.

Education and Support:
Patient education is crucial to ensure proper medication use and understanding of the diabetes management plan.

Diabetes treatment formulation involves a comprehensive.

1. *Dietary changes*: Balanced meal planning, carbohydrate counting.

2. *Physical activity*: Regular exercise, such as walking, jogging..

3. *Weight management*: Maintaining a healthy weight.

Monitoring and Adjustments
1. *Blood glucose monitoring*: Regular tracking of blood sugar levels.

2. *A1C testing*: Monitoring long-term glucose control.

3. *Medication adjustments*: Healthcare provider-guided changes.

Education and Support
1. *Diabetes education*: Understanding the condition, treatment and self-management.

Over time, diabetes can damage blood vessels in the heart, eyes, kidneys and nerves. People with diabetes have a higher risk of health problems including heart attack, stroke and kidney failure. Diabetes can cause permanent vision loss by damaging blood vessels in the eyes.


*DIET PLAN ON DIABETES PATIENT*

*A diabetic diet focuses on managing blood sugar levels through a balanced intake of carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats, while also prioritizing whole, unprocessed foods and limiting added sugars and refined grains.*

*Principles of a diabetic diet:*
Carbohydrates: Choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

*These are digested more slowly, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar.*

*Protein:* Include lean protein sources such as fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, beans, and lentils.

*Healthy Fats:* Opt for healthy fats like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and seeds.

*Fiber:* Increase fiber intake through whole grains, vegetables, and fruits to help regulate blood sugar.

*Portion Control:* Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overconsumption of carbohydrates and calories.

*Limit Added Sugars:* Reduce intake of sugary drinks, desserts, and processed foods.

*Regular Meal Times:* Eat meals at regular intervals to maintain stable blood sugar levels.

*Foods to include:*
Non-starchy vegetables: Spinach, leafy greens, carrots, bell peppers.

*Whole grains:* Whole wheat bread, brown rice, quinoa, oats.

*Fruits:* Choose whole fruits over juices or dried fruit.

*Lean protein:* Fish, chicken, turkey, eggs, beans, lentils.
Low-fat dairy: Milk, yogurt, cheese.

*Healthy fats:* Olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds.
Foods to limit or avoid:
Sugary drinks: Soda, juice, sports drinks.
Refined grains: White bread, white rice, pasta.
Processed foods: Fast food, chips, sugary snacks.

Saturated and trans fats: Found in processed meats, butter, and fried foods.

Example meal plan:
*Breakfast:* Oatmeal with berries and nuts, or a lean protein omelet with vegetables.


*Lunch:* Salad with grilled chicken or fish, whole-grain bread, and vegetables.

*Dinner:* Baked chicken or fish with roasted vegetables and brown rice.

Snacks: Fruits, vegetables, nuts, or a piece of whole-grain bread with a small amount of low-fat cheese.

*Additional Tips:*
Read food labels: Pay attention to sugar and carbohydrate content.

Consult with a registered dietitian: A dietitian can help create a personalized meal plan.

*Stay hydrated:* Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

*Be active:* Regular physical activity helps improve insulin sensitivity and blood sugar control.

*Manage stress:* High stress levels can impact blood sugar.

*Don't skip meals:* Regular meals help prevent blood sugar swings.

*Monitor your blood sugar:* Regularly check your blood sugar levels to track your progress and make adjustments to your diet.

*Consider cultural preferences:* Incorporate healthy versions of traditional Nigerian dishes into your meal plan.

Use the plate method: Fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables, a quarter with lean protein, and a quarter with a carbohydrate.

*POTENTIAL WARNING SIGNS OF DIABETES* include increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, excessive hunger, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing wounds, numbness or tingling in hands/feet, frequent skin or vaginal yeast infections, and dark skin patches.

More detailed look at each of these signs:
1. Increased Thirst and Frequent Urination:
Excessive thirst (polydipsia) and frequent urination (polyuria) are common early symptoms, especially in type 1 diabetes.

2. Unexplained Weight Loss:
Despite increased appetite, unexplained weight loss can be a sign of type 1 diabetes, as the body is unable to utilize glucose for energy.

3. Excessive Hunger:
Increased appetite (polyphagia) can occur as the body tries to compensate for the inability to use glucose.

4. Fatigue:
Persistent tiredness and weakness can be a result of high blood sugar levels and dehydration from frequent urination.

5. Blurred Vision:
High blood sugar can affect the lens and cause changes in fluid levels in the eye, leading to temporary blurring.

6. Slow-Healing Wounds:
Diabetes can impair blood circulation, slowing down the healing process of cuts and sores.

7. Numbness or Tingling in Hands/Feet:
Nerve damage (neuropathy) from high blood sugar can cause tingling or numbness, particularly in the extremities.

8. Frequent Skin or Vaginal Yeast Infections:
High blood sugar can create an environment for yeast to thrive.

9. Dark Skin Patches:
Acanthosis nigricans, characterized by dark, velvety patches in skin folds (like armpits, neck, groin), can be a sign of type 2 diabetes.

10. Shin Spots (Diabetic Dermopathy):
These round, brown or reddish-brown spots, often on the shins, can be a sign of diabetes and may fade after diabetes is well-controlled.

*Several herbs medicine for management blood sugar levels, including cinnamon, fenugreek, bitter melon, it's very important to check the patient sugar levels before incorporating them into your routine, especially if you have diabetes.*

Herbs and Supplements for Blood Sugar Control:

*Cinnamon:* Studies suggest cinnamon can help lower glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

*Fenugreek:* This herb is known to improve glucose tolerance and reduce blood sugar levels.

*Bitter Melon:* This plant has been traditionally used to manage diabetes and may help with blood sugar control.

*Milk Thistle:* Some research indicates milk thistle may help lower blood sugar and protect against diabetes-related complications.

*Gymnema:* This herb is believed to help regulate blood sugar levels and suppress cravings for sweets.

*Ginger:* Ginger has anti-diabetic, anti-oxidative, and hypolipidemic properties that may help manage blood sugar.

*Aloe Vera:* Aloe vera may help improve insulin sensitivity and lower blood sugar levels.
Berberine: This supplement is known to help control blood sugar and lipid metabolism.

*Turmeric:* Turmeric is a spice with anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties that may help regulate blood sugar.

*Holy Basil:* This herb is believed to improve glucose tolerance and regulate blood sugar levels.

*Oregano:* Oregano oil may help lower blood sugar and reduce oxidation of lipoprotein in the blood.

*Aegle marmelos (Bilva):* A study showed that the aqueous extract of Bilva leaves can improve digestion, reduce blood sugar, and lower cholesterol levels.

*Nopal Cactus:* Nopal cactus may help control high blood sugar and cholesterol levels when incorporated into the diet.

*Curry Leaves:* Curry leaves may improve insulin sensitivity and help lower blood sugar.

*Apple Cider Vinegar:* The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar may help lower blood sugar levels.
Ginseng: Ginseng may help improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels.

*Probiotics:* Some research suggests probiotics may help improve blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.

*Berberine*: Lowers blood sugar, improves insulin sensitivity.

*Ginseng*: May improve insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism.

Methods
1. *Tea infusions*: Herbal teas, such as gymnema or fenugreek.

2. *Capsules or tablets*: Standardized extracts of herbs like berberine.

3. *Powders or extracts*: Added to food or drink Considerations
Ensure safe integration with conventional treatment.

. *Quality control*: Choose reputable sources.

. *Monitoring*: Regularly track blood sugar levels.


Potential Benefits
1. *Blood sugar control*: Some herbs may help lower blood sugar.

2. *Insulin sensitivity*: Certain herbs may improve insulin function.

3. *Antioxidant properties*: Some herbs may reduce oxidative stress.

As a complementary and alternative medicine practitioner, I'd describe various ways to formulate and use herbal treatments for diabetes management:
Herbal Formulations.

1. *Teas*: Infusions or decoctions of herbs like Gymnema Sylvestre, Fenugreek, or Cinnamon.

2. *Capsules/Tablets*: Standardized extracts of herbs like Berberine, Ginseng, or Turmeric.

3. *Powders/Extracts*: Added to food or drinks, such as Gymnema or Fenugreek powder.

4. *Tinctures*: Concentrated herbal extracts, often used sublingually.

Methods
1. *Combination therapy*: Blending multiple herbs for synergistic effects.

2. *Individualized treatment*: Tailoring herbal remedies to each patient's needs.

3. *Lifestyle integration*: Combining herbal treatments with dietary changes and exercise.

Popular Herbs
1. *Berberine*: Blood sugar regulation, insulin sensitivity.

2. *Gymnema Sylvestre*: Traditionally used to support blood sugar control.

3. *Fenugreek*: May improve glucose tolerance, insulin sensitivity.

4. *Cinnamon*: Potential blood sugar-lowering properties.

Considerations
1. *Quality control*: Sourcing high-quality herbs.

2. *Dosage and potency*: Ensuring effective and safe dosing.

3. *Interactions and contraindications*: Monitoring potential interactions with conventional medications.


*Treatment plan for the management of diabetes*

King of bitter, abere seed,bitter leaf and bitter kola

From personal experience, both King of Bitters and Abere Seed live up to their reputations but in different ways.

*King of Bitters* has a sharp, intense bitterness that fully activates all the bitter-sensitive areas of the tongue. It hits hard the moment it touches your tongue but fades relatively quickly. The initial impact is strong, but it doesn’t linger for too long.

*Abere Seed*, on the other hand, offers a more complex bitterness. It not only stimulates the bitter taste buds but seems to engage the sour-sensitive areas as well.

The bitterness hits hard—just like King of Bitters—but unlike it, the taste lingers stubbornly. It stays on your tongue, often making you want to scrape it off. That lingering bitterness is what sets it apart.

*Bitter Leaf* falls somewhere in between. Its bitterness is noticeable and persistent but not as sharp as King of Bitters nor as lingering as Abere Seed. In my experience, *Bitter Kola* shares a similar bitterness level with Bitter Leaf—distinct but not overwhelming.

Now, imagine combining these four potent botanicals—King of Bitters, Abere Seed, Bitter Leaf, and Bitter Kola—into one powerful herbal formulation:
*Know as Bitters Capsule*.

This herbal blend could be nature’s answer to some of the most stubborn ailments. From supporting *liver health* to reversing *diabetics status, fighting hepatitis*, and even showing promise in the *treatment of cancer*—bitter plants hold remarkable healing potential.

Yes, Nature truly put healing essence in bitter herbs.

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Popeye: The Sailor Man (Live-Action)

In this bold reimagining of the classic tale, Popeye sets sail on an epic quest across treacherous seas to uncover the truth about his long-lost father. With only his wits, pipe, and brute strength, he battles corrupt navies, sea monsters, and rivals from his past, all while protecting the ones he loves. Will Smith transforms the beloved sailor into a charismatic force of nature, blending heart, humor, and heroism.

As danger rises and the storm brews, Popeye must decide what kind of man he truly is—just a sailor, or the legend he was born to become. With stunning visuals, swashbuckling action, and a powerful message about courage and loyalty, Popeye: The Sailor Man sails into cinematic history.

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Ten Unknown Facts About #Tesla
Founding: Tesla was founded in 2003 by engineers Martin Eberhard and Marc Tarpenning,
not Elon Musk. Musk joined the company as a major investor and became its public face.
Model Naming Quirk: Tesla’s car lineup follows a playful pattern: Model S, 3, X, and Y.
Elon Musk has said it was meant to spell "S3XY," with the number 3 replacing an "E."
Battery Focus: Tesla's breakthrough isn’t just in electric cars but also in battery technology. Tesla has invested heavily in creating
powerful and long-lasting batteries, not only for cars but also for energy storage solutions like Powerwall.
Autopilot and Full Self-Driving: Tesla’s Autopilot is an advanced driver-assistance system, but it’s not fully autonomous. The
company is working on Full Self-Driving (FSD) software, which could eventually enable true autonomous driving.
Gigafactories: Tesla operates massive manufacturing plants known as Gigafactories, located in the U.S., China, and
Germany. These factories are integral to Tesla’s ability to scale production and reduce costs.
SpaceX Connection: Tesla and SpaceX, both run by Elon Musk, share more than just a CEO. The companies collaborate on technology, and
SpaceX’s Falcon Heavy rocket even launched a Tesla Roadster into space as part of a 2018 test flight.
Sustainable Vision: Tesla's mission is to accelerate the world’s transition to sustainable energy.
In addition to electric cars, the company is a leader in solar power and energy storage solutions.
Over-the-Air Updates: Tesla was the first car manufacturer to allow over-the-air software updates, letting owners
download new features and improvements to their cars without visiting a dealership.
AI and Robots: Tesla’s AI Day event introduced Tesla Bot, a humanoid robot designed to handle dangerous or
repetitive tasks, showcasing Musk’s vision for AI and robotics beyond automobiles.
Environmental Impact: Tesla has reduced the overall carbon footprint of its vehicle manufacturing and is
working on creating fully recyclable batteries, making it a leader in the green automotive revolution.

‘BREAKING: Former U.S. Central Command Commander Kenneth McKenzie: "The only thing I can say about Fordow is that I wouldn’t want to be within five kilometers of it at this point."

What does he know that we don’t?

THE DEVIL'S MISTRESS
PART 11
The silence behind the door was a living thing, thick and suffocating. Scar’s pleas had dwindled into ragged breaths, his forehead pressed against the cool wood, his powerful frame slumped in defeat. The raw vulnerability he’d shown – the begging, the panic – had scraped him hollow. He’d faced down armies, orchestrated empires built on fear, yet here he was, brought to his knees by the silence of one woman. The image of Jessica hearing Amanda’s vicious poison, the thought of her believing even a fraction of it, was a physical wound in his chest.
Then, a sound. Faint. A scrape of metal. The softest click.
Scar froze, his breath catching. Slowly, agonizingly slowly, the heavy bedroom door inched open.
Jessica stood there, backlit by the dim light filtering through the curtains. The sight tore through Scar like shrapnel. Her eyes, usually bright with intelligence or warm with affection, were swollen almost shut, raw and red-rimmed from hours of crying. Tear tracks had carved paths through the faint flush of humiliation still staining her cheeks. Her posture was defeated, shoulders slumped inward as if trying to make herself disappear. She looked impossibly young, fragile, and utterly broken. The vibrant, determined woman he loved seemed reduced to a ghost of herself.
"Jessica..." The name was a choked whisper.
Before he could say more, she flinched, taking a half-step back into the room’s shadows. The movement, the sheer *hurt* radiating from her, shattered the last remnants of his control. He surged forward, not with force, but with a desperate, aching need. He crossed the threshold and gathered her into his arms, pulling her fragile form against his chest with infinite gentleness, as if she were spun glass.
She was stiff at first, unyielding. But as his arms closed around her, as the familiar scent and solid warmth of him enveloped her, a tremor ran through her. Then another. A choked sob escaped her lips, muffled against his shirt.
"Baby,"
Scar murmured, his voice thick with remorse, his own eyes burning.
He buried his face in her hair, breathing her in, anchoring himself.
"I’m sorry. God, Jessica, I am so, so sorry."
His arms tightened, a protective cag.e
. "I should have told you. Everything. About her, about the past, about the ****** engagement
that meant nothing*
." His voice cracked.
"I was a coward. I thought… I thought if I buried it deep enough
, it would just go away.
I never imagined… I never dreamed she’d come here, that she’d…" He couldn’t even bring himself to repeat Amanda’s words.
"I’m sorry you found out like this. I’m sorry she hurt you. Please… please forgive me."
Jessica pulled back slightly, just enough to look up at him. Her tear-filled eyes searched his face, filled with a pain that mirrored his own.
"Why,
Scar?" Her voice was a raw whisper, scraped thin by tears and despair
. "Why didn't you tell me? I… I thought you loved me. I thought you trusted me."
A fresh wave of tears spilled over.
"She… she humiliated me. Called me… called me horrible things. Names I… I heard in the slums."
Her breath hitched.
"And maybe… maybe she's right? Maybe I am just a… a home wrecker?
Coming between destiny?" Her voice broke completely. "Just… just let me go, Scar. Please. Stay away from me. It’s better… it’s better this way."
"The words"
‘let me go’
were ice water down his spine. Panic, colder and sharper than any battlefield fear, seized him. His hands tightened on her arms, not to hurt, but to anchor, to keep her from vanishing.
"No!"
The word was a low roar, laced with desperation.
"You go *nowhere*, Jessica! Do you understand? *Nowhere!*"
He forced his voice down, trying to sound rational through the terror.
"It’s not safe.
Not out there alone. My enemies… they watch. They’d grab you the second you stepped foot outside unprotected.
Please, baby."
He cupped her face, his thumbs wiping away her tears, his eyes pleading.
"Listen to me. I broke it off with her five years ago. It was *over*. Finished. She was toxic, dangerous… *insane*. That’s why I sent her away. To protect people *from* her."
Jessica searched his eyes, the turmoil within her warring with the undeniable love and fear she saw reflected back.
"Then… then why is she here?" she whispered, a fresh tremor in her voice.
Scar took a deep, steadying breath.
"She’s… manipulative. She twisted things, lied, to get back. But she won’t stay. She *can’t* stay." His voice firmed with conviction. "She’ll be gone. Soon. A few days, maybe less. Her father… he’ll come for her. He knows the deal. He knows what happens if she stays." He leaned his forehead against hers, his voice dropping to an intense, intimate murmur.
"Please, baby. Please trust me, just a little longer. I love you. More than anything. More than this empire, more than my own life. You are my destiny. Not her. Never her." He kissed her forehead, her eyelids, her tear-stained cheeks, each touch a fervent vow. "Everything… everything will be alright. I swear it. I’ll make it alright."
For a moment, the world contracted to just the two of them in the dim room. Jessica leaned into him, a fragile hope battling the deep-seated hurt. His words, his touch, the raw sincerity in his eyes, were a balm on her wounded spirit. She started to nod, a tiny, hesitant movement, her fingers tightening slightly on his shirt.
Then, the spell shattered.
A sound like shattering crystal – cold, sharp laughter – echoed from the doorway. Amanda stood there, leaning casually against the frame, impeccably dressed now in tailored slacks and a silk blouse, her blonde curls perfect. She was slowly clapping her hands, a cruel, mocking smile twisting her beautiful face.
"What a touching performance,"
she drawled, her voice dripping with venomous amusement.
"Really, Sebastian,
you should be on stage. The reformed villain, the devoted lover… it’s almost believable." She pushed off the doorframe and took a step into the room, her dark eyes fixed on Jessica with predatory glee.
"News flash, darling," she spat the word at Scar, "I’m not packing my bags. I’m not going anywhere.
Did you really think I’d sit quietly in Italy while this… this gutter rat" her voice rose, sharp and hateful on the slur, "takes my place? Takes what’s mine? Scar, never—"
The crack of the slap echoed like a gunshot in the sudden, shocked silence.
Amanda’s head snapped sideways with brutal force. The mocking smile vanished, replaced by utter, stunned disbelief. A vivid red handprint bloomed across her flawless cheek. She staggered back a step, her hand flying to her face, her eyes wide with shock and dawning rage. Silence, thick and heavy, descended. Jessica gasped, frozen.
Scar stood rigid, his hand still raised, his face a mask of cold, terrifying fury. Every ounce of the feared underworld king was present in that moment, radiating lethal intent. His voice, when it came, was dangerously low, quieter than a whisper yet carrying the weight of absolute command.
"How *dare* you," he breathed,
the words slicing through the air like shards of ice.
"How dare you call my woman that filth. In my presence. In *her* home."
He took a single, deliberate step towards Amanda, who shrank back, genuine fear flickering in her eyes for the first time.
"You have exactly until tomorrow mor
ning," Scar continued, his voice gaining volume, becoming a thunderous roar that seemed to shake the room, "to be OUT of my house. Out of my city. Out of my *life*. Do you understand me? GONE!"
Amanda recovered slightly, her shock morphing into indignant fury. Her hand dropped from her cheek. "But… but Sebastian! Did you just slap me? Because of this… this dirt?!" Her voice rose hysterically.
Scar moved faster than thought. In a blur, his hand dipped beneath his jacket and came up holding a sleek, black pistol. He leveled it directly between Amanda’s wide, terrified eyes. The metallic *click* of the safety disengaging was obscenely loud.
"One. More. Word. "Scar’s voice was glacial, devoid of all emotion except lethal promise. His finger tightened on the trigger.
"One more insult. One more syllable out of your poisonous mouth. And I swear on everything I am, I *will* put a bullet in your head. Right here. Right now."
Amanda froze, her mouth hanging open in a silent scream, all color draining from her face. The raw, homicidal intent in Scar’s eyes was undeniable. He wasn't bluffing.
The standoff lasted only a heartbeat, but it felt like an eternity. Then, a choked cry broke the tension. Jessica, unable to bear the violence, the gun, the terrifying look on Scar’s face, the palpable hatred radiating from Amanda, turned and fled. She darted past Scar, past the frozen Amanda, and ran out of the bedroom door, down the hallway towards the stairs, desperate for air, for escape, for anywhere but this suffocating nightmare.
Scar’s head snapped towards her fleeing figure, the gun still trained on Amanda. "JESSICA!" he roared, the fury in his voice instantly replaced by panic. The woman he’d just sworn to protect was running headlong into the unknown, and the most dangerous threat was still standing in his bedroom, a gun pointed at her face. The sanctuary was shattered, and chaos reigned.
TO BE CONTINUED...

I DO NOT BOAST I AM A CAPTAIN

On darkest nights, mid-ocean wide,
my boat and I with waves collide.
Why, Poseidon, such disdain?
Am I to blame I steer my reign?
The storm will hurl us through the sky,
then slam us down, yet still we try.
I fear, but cry not out in pride,
nor claim I rule this raging tide.
Should I not reach the harbor near—
the table waits for fish and cheer.
If I don’t make it, someone grieves...
That’s why, that’s why—I fight to leave!
What marvels rise—I never tell,
nor fear, nor hope where sea-storms dwell.
No sailor bows to tales or fame,
to say this wrecked boat bore my name.

THE DEVIL'S MISTRESS
PART 9
The heavy silence left by William’s announcement didn’t lift. It pressed down on the sunlit bedroom, turning the golden warmth cold. Jessica sat frozen, the silk sheet clutched tightly around her, watching Scar’s rigid back. The shift in him was terrifying. The powerful, possessive man who had held her moments ago was gone, replaced by a statue carved from ice and tension. He hadn’t looked at her once since William spoke that name.
Amanda.
The name echoed in Jessica’s mind, sharp and poisonous. Who was she? What hold did she have over him that could shatter his invincible composure so completely? Jessica’s heart hammered against her ribs, a frantic bird trapped in a gilded cage. Fear, cold and unfamiliar in this sanctuary, began to creep in.
Scar finally moved. He stood up from the bed with a fluid, predatory grace that was devoid of its usual sensuality. He didn’t look at Jessica as he strode naked to a massive walk-in closet. Jessica watched, mesmerized and terrified, as he pulled on black trousers with sharp, efficient movements, then a crisp, white shirt that he buttoned with deliberate slowness, his fingers steady despite the storm Jessica sensed raging inside him. He buckled a sleek leather shoulder holster, sliding a heavy black pistol into place with a chilling finality. Finally, he shrugged into a perfectly tailored charcoal grey jacket. The transformation was complete: the lover replaced by the ruthless kingpin.
Only then did he turn towards the bed. His eyes, when they finally met hers, were shuttered, unreadable. The warmth, the possessiveness, the *her* that usually lived in his gaze was buried deep beneath layers of cold control.
"Jessica," his voice was low, rough, but unnervingly calm. "Stay here. Do not come out of this room. No matter what you hear. Understand?"
The command was absolute. The underlying warning was clear. Jessica nodded mutely, her throat too tight to speak. The fear solidified into a cold knot in her stomach.
Scar held her gaze for a beat longer, a flicker of something unidentifiable – protectiveness? Apology? – passing through his eyes before it was ruthlessly extinguished. He turned and walked out of the bedroom, closing the door firmly behind him. The soft click of the latch sounded like the sealing of a tomb.
Jessica scrambled off the bed, pulling on the silk robe Scar had discarded earlier. It smelled like him, a small comfort that did nothing to ease the panic fluttering in her chest. She crept towards the door, pressing her ear against the cool, heavy wood. She could hear the low murmur of voices downstairs, too indistinct to make out words, but the tone was tense, charged.
Downstairs, the opulent living room felt suddenly claustrophobic. William stood rigidly near the entrance, his face a mask of professional neutrality, but his eyes darted nervously towards the figure seated elegantly on the central cream sofa.
Amanda.
She was breathtaking. Dressed in a sheath dress of liquid silver that clung to her curves like a second skin, her dark hair cascaded in artful waves around a face sculpted with almost unreal perfection – high cheekbones, full lips painted a deep crimson, large, dark eyes fringed with impossibly long lashes. She looked like a fashion plate, a goddess descended into the mortal realm. She held a delicate porcelain cup of coffee, her posture relaxed, exuding an aura of supreme confidence. Yet, beneath the polished surface, an unnerving stillness radiated from her, like a viper basking in the sun.
Scar entered the room, his presence instantly dominating the space. He stopped several feet away from the sofa, his hands clasped loosely behind his back, his expression impassive, but his eyes were chips of black ice fixed on Amanda.
"Amanda," he stated, his voice devoid of inflection. "What are you doing here?"
She looked up, a slow, dazzling smile spreading across her perfect features. It didn't reach her eyes. "Darling," she purred, her voice like velvet over steel. "Is that any way to greet your fiancée after five long years?"
Scar didn't flinch. "That arrangement was terminated. Permanently."
Amanda placed her cup down with exaggerated care on the glass coffee table. The delicate clink sounded unnaturally loud. "Terminated?" She gave a soft, tinkling laugh that held no humor. "By you? Because of one... little... mistake? You sent me away, Sebastian." She used his real name, a calculated intimacy. "Exiled me to that dreary clinic in Italy. Was that fair?" Her smile remained, but her eyes hardened. "Look at me. I worked so hard. Therapy, Sebastian. Sobriety." She gestured gracefully to herself. "All for you. To be worthy of you again."
Scar’s gaze didn’t waver. A low growl rumbled in his chest, a sound of pure warning. "Don’t you think you’re a little late, Amanda? Things have changed. I have changed. I’ve moved on."
The air crackled. The polished mask on Amanda’s face fractured. A flash of pure, incandescent rage contorted her beautiful features for a split second, her knuckles whitening where she gripped the edge of the sofa. It was gone as quickly as it appeared, smoothed over by a brittle smile. She rose gracefully, smoothing her dress.
"Have you now?" she murmured, stepping towards him. She stopped just out of arm's reach, her dark eyes sweeping over him with possessive appraisal, then flicking dismissively around the room. "We shall see, Sebastian. We shall see." Her voice dropped, becoming a venomous whisper. "I’ve come back to take what’s mine."
She didn’t wait for a response. With the regal bearing of a queen reclaiming her throne, she walked past him towards William. "William, darling," she said airily, as if the previous five years and her violent exile had never happened. "Be a dear and have my bags brought up. The usual suite, I assume is prepared?" She didn’t wait for an answer, brushing past him and heading towards the sweeping staircase as if she owned the place.
William looked helplessly at Scar. Scar’s jaw was clenched so tightly a muscle spasmed in his cheek. He gave a single, sharp, almost imperceptible nod. William hurried after Amanda.
Scar remained standing in the center of the living room, radiating a cold, dangerous fury that seemed to vibrate the very air. He didn’t move for a long time, staring at the space where Amanda had sat, the ghost of her perfume – heavy, floral, cloying – hanging in the air, a stark contrast to Jessica’s lighter, fresher scent.
Upstairs, Jessica had retreated from the door, pacing the luxurious confines of the bedroom like a trapped animal. She’d heard the murmur of voices, the chilling clarity of that feminine purr, the unmistakable sound of footsteps ascending the stairs. Panic clawed at her throat. Fiancée? Exile?* The words screamed in her mind. Who was this woman? The fear for herself was momentarily eclipsed by a deeper, sharper pang – the fear of losing *him*, of this perfect, hard-won sanctuary being invaded and destroyed.
Hours crawled by. Jessica heard muffled voices elsewhere in the vast penthouse, the sound of doors opening and closing. The luxurious room felt like a prison. She jumped violently when her own bedroom door finally opened.
Scar stood there, framed in the doorway. The controlled mask he’d worn downstairs was still in place, but the strain showed around his eyes, in the tight set of his shoulders. He looked exhausted, haunted. He didn’t speak. He simply walked in, locked the door behind him, and crossed the room in three long strides.
He pulled Jessica into his arms with a force that stole her breath. It wasn't a passionate embrace; it was desperate, almost fearful. He buried his face in the curve of her neck, his arms banded around her so tightly she could barely breathe, crushing her against the hard planes of his chest. He trembled, a fine, almost imperceptible vibration that terrified her more than any shout.
"Sebastian?" Jessica whispered, her voice muffled against his shoulder.
He didn’t answer with words. Instead, he lifted his head and captured her lips in a kiss that was unlike any they’d shared before. It was slow, deep, achingly tender, yet underpinned by a raw, almost frantic intensity. It was a kiss of claiming, of reassurance, of desperate need. He kissed her like a drowning man clinging to air.
He lifted her effortlessly, carrying her to the bed. This time, there was no playful chase, no fierce claiming. He laid her down with heartbreaking gentleness. His touch as he removed her robe, then his own clothes, was reverent. He worshipped her body not with demanding passion, but with slow, lingering caresses that traced every curve, every scar, every inch of her skin as if memorizing it, as if it were sacred. His lips followed the same path – soft kisses on her eyelids, her temples, the pulse point at her wrist, the valley between her breasts, the sensitive skin of her inner thighs.
He took her slowly, with a depth of feeling that stole her breath and brought tears to her eyes. His eyes never left hers, dark pools reflecting a vulnerability she had never seen. He moved within her with exquisite slowness, each thrust a promise, a plea. He murmured against her skin, words breathed like prayers into the quiet room.
"I love you, baby," he whispered, his voice thick with emotion, rough with a fear he couldn't name. "I love you so much." He kissed her deeply again. "You are mine. Only mine." He held her gaze, the intensity almost painful. "I will protect you. With my life. Always."
He repeated the words like a mantra as their bodies moved together in a rhythm that was pure, desperate connection. "I love you... mine... protect you..." It was a confession ripped from the deepest, most guarded part of his soul, a shield erected against the ghost that now walked his halls.
Their climax, when it came, was a slow, powerful wave that washed over them together, a shared release that felt more like a merging of souls than a physical act. He held her through it, his arms like steel bands, his face buried in her hair, his body shuddering.
Afterwards, he didn’t let go. He pulled her tightly against him, her back to his chest, his arms locked around her waist, his face pressed against the nape of her neck. His breathing gradually slowed, deepened, into the rhythm of sleep, but his hold never slackened. It was as if he feared she would vanish if he loosened his grip even slightly.
Jessica lay wide awake in the circle of his arms, his words echoing in the silence.
I love you.
He’d never said it before. He was a man of actions, not declarations. His protection, his care, his fierce possession – that was his language. Hearing the words aloud, raw and vulnerable, spoken with such desperate intensity… it shook her to her core.
The fear hadn’t left. It coiled cold and heavy beneath the lingering warmth of his love and their intimacy. Amanda’s chillingly beautiful face, her possessive words, her entitled invasion… they painted a picture of danger Jessica couldn’t yet fully see, but felt bone-deep.
Something serious was happening. Something dark from Scar’s past had erupted into their fragile present, threatening everything. The man who feared nothing slept clinging to her like a lifeline. The confession of love wasn't just a gift; it was a warning.
Jessica stared into the darkness beyond the window, the unfamiliar weight of Scar’s sleeping embrace both a comfort and a chain. His whispered promise, *"I will protect you,"* warred with the terrifying certainty that Amanda was a storm they might not weather.
Who is she? Jessica thought, her mind racing, her body acutely aware of the man who loved her and the ghost who threatened them. *What did she do? What does she want?*
The warmth of Scar’s body against her back couldn’t dispel the chilling dread. Amanda wasn’t just an ex-fiancée. She was chaos wrapped in silk. And Jessica knew, with a cold certainty that settled in her bones, that she needed to understand this enemy.
And I will find out, she vowed silently into the dark, her hand tightening slightly over Scar’s where it rested on her stomach. The battle lines, unseen but deeply felt, had been drawn.
TO BE CONTINUED...

BREAKING NEWS: Saudi "Sleeping Prince" Al-Waleed bin Khaled Reportedly Regains Consciousness After 20 Years in Coma

In a stunning and emotional development, Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal Al Saud, popularly known as the “Sleeping Prince,” has allegedly regained consciousness after spending nearly two decades in a coma. The prince, who was critically injured in a devastating car accident in 2005, has been on life support ever since.

According to reports circulating on social media and some regional outlets, Prince Al-Waleed, now 36 years old, showed signs of waking up earlier this month and has now regained a level of consciousness that shocked both his family and medical team. While official confirmation from the Saudi royal family has not yet been released, the news has sparked a wave of emotional reactions across the Arab world and beyond.

A Tragic Accident, A Miraculous Recovery

The accident that changed Prince Al-Waleed’s life occurred in 2005 when he was a university student in the United Kingdom. The crash left him with severe brain injuries and multiple fractures, leading to a persistent vegetative state that defied years of medical intervention.

Despite medical advice urging the family to consider ending life support, Prince Khaled bin Talal, his father, refused to give up hope. The prince remained in intensive care in a specially equipped facility in Riyadh, where he was continuously monitored by top-tier medical professionals.

A Family's Hope Rewarded

Over the years, the prince’s father remained steadfast in his belief that his son would recover. Videos occasionally released by the family showed minimal movement, such as the prince raising a finger, which they took as a sign of life and hope.


Sources close to the family claim that Prince Khaled was speechless and overwhelmed with emotion upon hearing the news that his son had opened his eyes and responded to stimuli.

“Welcome back to life, our handsome prince,” said a family member in a message shared on social media.

Public Reaction and Reflections

Across the Middle East, citizens have expressed joy, astonishment, and admiration for the family’s resilience. The story has reignited debates about faith, the power of medical care, and the emotional weight of end-of-life decisions.

Many on social media are calling the prince’s recovery a “miracle,” while others reflect on the extraordinary resources committed to sustaining his life.

A Moral Reflection

The extraordinary story has also prompted philosophical and moral reflections, with many noting: “Money can sometimes buy life.” While not diminishing the miracle of the recovery, this statement acknowledges the role of wealth in providing long-term critical care and sustaining hope over two decades.

Awaiting Official Confirmation

As of the time of this report, there has been no formal statement from the Saudi royal family or the King Faisal Specialist Hospital where the prince is believed to have been treated. The world now watches for further details and confirmation of the prince’s current medical condition and prospects for recovery ..

THE DEVIL'S MISTRESS
PART 3
The night Jessica met Mr. Scar, the air smelled like danger and expensive cologne.
She had been in the VIP lounge of La Reine, the most exclusive club in Lagos, where rich men paid to forget their sins. Lady Lily had warned her about this job—*"Don’t ask questions. Don’t look him in the eye too long. Just be perfect."
But the moment he walked in, Jessica knew this man was different.
Mr. Scar wasn’t handsome in the traditional sense. His face was all sharp edges—a jagged scar running from his left eyebrow down to his jaw, a souvenir from a life lived in blood. His suit was black, tailored to fit his broad frame like a second skin, and his gold watch glinted under the dim lights.
But it was his eyes that froze her. Dark, calculating, the kind of eyes that saw everything.
He didn’t leer at her like the others. He studied her, like she was a puzzle he wanted to solve.
"You’re new," he said, his voice low and rough, like gravel.
Jessica forced herself to smile, the way she’d been trained. "First time here, sir."
He smirked, swirling his whiskey. "You’re lying."
Her pulse spiked.
For hours, they talked. Not the empty, lust-filled chatter of her usual clients, but *real* conversation—politics, books, even her studies. He listened when she spoke, his gaze never leaving her face.
"Why do you do this?" he asked suddenly.
Jessica hesitated. The truth sat heavy on her tongue—Because my family is starving. Because I have no choice.
But she gave him the practiced answer instead. "Money."
Mr. Scar laughed, but it wasn’t cruel. "Finally, an honest woman."
And just like that, she saw it—the flicker of interest in his eyes.
She had his attention.
And in his world, attention was dangerous.
Three nights later, Jessica was snatched off the street.
A black van screeched to a halt beside her, and before she could scream, gloved hands yanked her inside. A hood was thrown over her head.
When it was ripped off, she was in a warehouse, tied to a chair. A man in a crisp white suit—Mr. Scar’s rival, Kazeem—smiled down at her.
"Pretty thing," he mused, tapping her cheek with a knife. *"Scar likes you. That makes you useful."
Her blood turned to ice.
"Seduce him," Kazeem ordered. "Get the ledger with his black-market deals. Do it, and I’ll pay you triple what he ever could."
Jessica’s mind raced. If she refused, she was dead. If she agreed…
She was playing with fire.
She tried. God, she tried.
For a week, she met Mr. Scar—dinners, late-night drives, even his penthouse. She laughed at his jokes, let him touch her, all while searching for that damn ledger.
But he was smarter than she expected.
One evening, as she pretended to sleep in his bed, she heard him on the phone. "She’s working for Kazeem."
Her heart stopped.
The next thing she knew, a hand fisted in her hair, yanking her up. Mr. Scar’s face was a mask of cold fury.
"You ****** girl," he snarled. "Did you really think I wouldn’t know?"
Terror choked her. "I—I had no choice—"
"Everyone has a choice," he hissed. Then, to the guards looming behind him: "Take her."
The basement was damp; the walls stained with things Jessica didn’t want to think about.
Mr. Scar paced in front of her, his rage a living thing. "I trusted you," he spat, like the words tasted bitter.
Jessica shook, tears streaming. "They threatened me! I didn’t want to—"
"Liar." He backhanded her.
Pain exploded across her cheek. But worse than the sting was the betrayal in his eyes.
And then—
He stopped. Stared at her. Really looked at her.
For the first time, Jessica let him see the truth. The fear. The desperation. The shame.
Something in his expression shifted.
"Who owns you?" he demanded.
She swallowed blood. "No one."
A long silence. Then, slowly, he crouched in front of her, tilting her chin up.
"Wrong answer," he murmured. "Now you’re mine."
TO BE CONTINUED...

In 1999, the United Nations, through the International Labour Organization (ILO), adopted Convention No. 182 — calling on all nations to take urgent and immediate action to eliminate the most harmful and exploitative forms of child labour.

This includes slavery, trafficking, exploitation, hazardous work, and forced recruitment of children in armed conflict.�

✍🏾 Today, this convention is among the most widely ratified in the world — yet, millions of children remain unprotected.

In Africa alone, according to UNICEF, over 92 million children — 1 in every 5 — are still engaged in child labour.

�Many are out of school, exposed to danger, and stripped of their right to a safe, healthy childhood.

Despite progress, global trends have reversed in recent years — a stark reminder that words must become action.

With Sustainable Development Goal 8.7, the world pledged to end child labour in all its forms by 2025. But the deadline is here — and the urgency is real.

Now is the time to act boldly, implement fully, and protect every child’s right to be a child.

UNICEF

United Nations

#WorldDayAgainstChildLabour #UNICEF #ILO #Convention182 #Convention138 #ChildRights #Africa4Children #EndChildLabour #SDG8 #EducationNotExploitation #2025Deadline #ActNow