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News from October 31, 2025

749 articles found

Parthiv Patel Demands Rethink on India’s Spin and Batting Depth After Crushing Loss in Melbourne
Technology

Parthiv Patel Demands Rethink on India’s Spin and Batting Depth After Crushing Loss in Melbourne

Former India wicketkeeper Parthiv Patel feels the visitors’ need to make decisions in terms of spinners combination and number eight slots after suffering a four-wicket defeat in the second T20I against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday. Inserted into batting first, India’s innings unraveled early as Josh Hazlewood ripped through the top order with a probing spell of 3-13, leaving the visitors four down inside the powerplay. Abhishek Sharma countered with a composed 68, but India failed to rebuild and were bowled out for 125 in 18.4 overs. Australia chased down the target with ease, winning by four wickets and 40 balls to spare to take a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. "There are positive takeaways like Abhishek Sharma's batting and Varun Chakaravarthy's bowling, but the team management faces crucial decisions. They must determine the optimal combination regarding playing two wrist spinners in Australian conditions and whether to strengthen batting at number eight by including a bowler like Harshit Rana, who can bat instead of a specialist like Arshdeep Singh.” “Additionally, the toss strategy raises questions; despite significant dew, India intended to bat first. This decision requires examination, especially since local groundsmen confirmed heavy dew formation during evening matches," said Parthiv on JioStar. Patel also offered insights into Shubman Gill’s role in the side and his approach with the bat, especially after he was dismissed for five in Friday’s game. "As vice-captain, Shubman Gill's contributions naturally remain crucial, though the primary discussion revolves around team composition rather than the established opening partnership with Abhishek Sharma.” “Regarding Gill's approach with the bat, he possesses the ability to play aggressive shots down the ground and match Abhishek's intent, but he doesn't need to replicate that style. His strength lies in timing the ball beautifully through the mid-on and mid-off region without resorting to cross-bat shots, which is what he did in the first T20I in Canberra.” “Given his experience and reading of the game, he can afford to set his own tempo, much like he did during the Asia Cup, rather than altering his natural game and playing like his partner Abhishek Sharma in this series," he concluded. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Sports, Cricket and around the world.

IANS,Times Now Digital
International Olympics Committee cancels 12-year deal with Saudi Arabia after just one year, says it 'will develop a new approach to the Olympic Esports Games'
Technology

International Olympics Committee cancels 12-year deal with Saudi Arabia after just one year, says it 'will develop a new approach to the Olympic Esports Games'

The International Olympic Committee has cancelled a 12-year deal with Saudi Arabia that would have seen the first-ever Olympic esports games hosted in Riyadh. The IOC said in a statement that the parties had "mutually agreed that they will end their cooperation on the Olympic Esports Games." It's a rare kick in the teeth for Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who's led a big push into videogames as part of an effort to burnish his reputation with the world at large, with the inaugural event due to have taken place this year before being pushed to 2027. Sporting events, and an official Olympic event in particular, are key parts of the Vision 2030 modernization drive whereby the oil-rich nation is chucking money at anything that might bring it a little more respectability on the world stage. The IOC added that "both parties are committed to pursuing their own esports ambitions on separate paths", presumably referring to Saudi Arabia being the host for the Esports World Cup. This annual event is personally supported by bin Salman and boasts a lucrative prize pool, with this year's event distributing $70 million. "The IOC, for its part, will develop a new approach to the Olympic Esports Games... and pursue a new partnership model," said the IOC. "This approach will be a chance to better fit the Olympic Esports Games to the long-term ambitions of the Olympic Movement and to spread the opportunities presented by the Olympic Esports Games more widely, with the objective of having the inaugural Games as soon as possible." The IOC still plans to hold an Olympic Esports Games, running alongside the usual summer and winter Games, and has in the past held test events involving racing games and beat-em-ups. But one sticking point for the IOC, which sees esports as a way of interesting younger audiences in the Olympics, is the nature of competitive gaming itself: popular titles such as Call of Duty, which obviously involve players shooting each other with recreations of real-world firearms, are seen by some at the IOC as a poor fit for Olympic values. But Saudi Arabia will continue to forge its own path in esports, having recently announced plans for an Esports Nations Cup in November 2026. The esports scene generally has been financially struggling since the boom of the Covid-19 years, music to the ears of the Saudi Public Investment Fund, which can easily bankroll glitzy in-person events. As well as esports, Saudi Arabia has an extensive list of gaming investments, including stakes in Take Two, Capcom, Nintendo, and many more. Most recently, it spearheaded a successful bid to buy Electronic Arts for $55 billion. This is all in the context of even more eye-watering amounts being invested in traditional sports, as part of a tactic dubbed "sportswashing": essentially, distracting from the kingdom's horrific human rights record and anti-LGBT laws by hosting major sporting events and holding large stakes in key organisations. It will host the 2034 FIFA World Cup, and has ambitions to host a summer Olympics at some point.

Rich Stanton
5 Books That’ll Teach You How To Influence People In Just A Weekend
Technology

5 Books That’ll Teach You How To Influence People In Just A Weekend

Influence isn’t about slick talk or power moves but really about understanding what makes people tick. And psychology, as dry as it might sound, is really just the study of why we do what we do. If you’ve ever wanted to get better at persuading your boss, winning an argument gently, or simply being more aware of human behaviour, these five books are your weekend crash course. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini A classic for a reason, this one has been on the desks of everyone from startup founders to campaign strategists. Cialdini breaks down six timeless principles: reciprocity, commitment, social proof, authority, liking, and scarcity, using real-world experiments. The examples are so simple, you’ll start spotting these persuasion tricks everywhere, from your favourite app’s design to supermarket aisles. Pre-Suasion: A Revolutionary Way to Influence and Persuade by Robert Cialdini Consider this the “next level” to Influence. Here, Cialdini goes deeper. He writes that it’s not just what you say, but when and how you say it. He explains how setting the stage (even subtly) can make people more receptive before the conversation even begins. It’s a great book for anyone who negotiates, leads, or simply wants to be a little more aware of the psychology behind timing. Captivate: The Science of Succeeding with People by Vanessa Van Edwards Vanessa Van Edwards, a behavioural researcher, brings the science down to earth with warmth and humour. Captivate isn’t about manipulation but about decoding social cues and learning how to connect with authenticity. The book’s structure is fun as each chapter teaches a small experiment you can try in your daily life, from handshakes to small talk to charisma. The Like Switch: An Ex-FBI Agent’s Guide to Influencing, Attracting, and Winning People Over by Jack Schafer If you’ve ever wanted to understand what makes someone instantly trust you, this is the book. Written by a former FBI agent who spent his career reading people, Schafer mixes spy tactics with psychology in a surprisingly human way. His “friendship formula”, which includes likability, proximity, frequency, and duration, actually makes perfect sense once you start observing your own relationships. Games People Play: The Psychology of Human Relationships by Eric Berne Published in the 1960s but still deeply relevant, this one reads like a mirror held up to everyday interactions. Berne breaks down social “games” — the patterns and roles we subconsciously fall into, from office dynamics to romantic arguments. It’s a slower, more thoughtful read, but you’ll never look at a conversation the same way again.

Mallika Bhagat
Mining industry digs in against proposed B.C. heritage act changes
Technology

Mining industry digs in against proposed B.C. heritage act changes

The Association for Mineral Exploration (AME) is raising concerns about B.C.’s Heritage Conservation Act Transformation Project. The purpose of the project is to update the Heritage Conservation Act (HCA) to ensure it is consistent with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and improve how the HCA is implemented in a way that benefits all people in B.C. According to the provincial government, The Heritage Conservation Act (HCA) encourages and enables the protection and conservation of sites with historical, cultural and/or archaeological value in B.C. These sites hold physical evidence of how and where people lived. Many of these sites in B.C. are culturally sensitive, contain ancestral remains, and have important sacred and spiritual value to First Nations in B.C. Altering these protected sites without a permit is prohibited under the Act. Significant changes have not been made to the HCA since 1996. “It also impacts forestry. It impacts oil and gas. It kind of impacts everyone, and the changes that government has put forward are quite problematic,” said Jack Middleton, AME vice president of policy and advocacy. Middleton talked to Black Press Media while touring the Northwest to raise awareness of the project. He explained that most of their members were unaware of the project and the government has bumped the consultation period from Oct. 1 to mid-November. One of the project’s aims is to strengthen the role of First Nations in decision-making about their own heritage and ancestors, in alignment with the Declaration Act . “It’s looking to seek consent from First Nations to get an archeology permit, which they’re framing as speeding up the process, but we feel will ultimately slow the process down without a serious explanation of how it will speed things up,” Middleton said. ”There’s also a real lack of science. They’re looking to include intangible cultural heritage in that, so oral traditions and stories and things like that, which we were looking for physical archaeological evidence in an archaeological permit. “And then they’re looking to provide Nations with the ability to enforce archaeology permits. And our stance is that we think that should rest with the government. The government should be the group that enforces laws in the country, in the province.” Middleton also said there is concern about capacity and whether Indigenous groups have the people and the knowledge to take on the extra role. Feedback from First Nations, local governments, stakeholders, and the public to help the Province develop new legislation will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Nov. 14.

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B.C.’s largest commercial solar farm now in operation near Logan Lake
Technology

B.C.’s largest commercial solar farm now in operation near Logan Lake

First Nations, government and business officials, and local stakeholders gathered on Oct. 16 to celebrate the commissioning of the quA-ymn solar project, located 50 kilometres south of Kamloops in the District of Logan Lake. The project is an initiative of the shQUAQUAsh Energy Limited Partnership, an entity created by the member communities of the Nlaka’pamux Nation Tribal Council (NNTC) and BluEarth Renewables. It achieved its commercial operations date on June 19, on schedule and within budget. NNTC began development work on the quA-ymn solar project in 2011, forming a partnership with BluEarth in 2019. It is located on 24 hectares (60 acres) of reclaimed land at Teck Highland Valley Copper Operations, between Ashcroft and Logan Lake, and has a 15 megawatt capacity. It is the province’s first major commercial solar facility and largest solar installation to-date. A total of 39,000 solar panels will produce enough energy to power more than 2,400 homes annually for up to 40 years. Additionally, the facility will provide employment and other economic benefits for the region. “This is an important project for the NNTC and our member communities and confirms for us that the disciplined and principled approach the NNTC has taken best protects Nlaka’pamux title and rights,” said Chief Matt Pasco, chair and title protector of the NNTC. “We are sending a clear message together that after years of hard work in developing new, creative, recognition-based approaches to land and resource development, combined with deep and respectful relationships, that these are the foundations for how we make decisions together throughout the Nlaka’pamux homeland. “No doubt, this project will help lead to new ways of doing business together, and lead to greater recognition, respect, and sustainable prosperity for all. NNTC’s vision for future renewables projects is to maximize Indigenous ownership, create long-term revenue streams for communities, and develop a hub for renewable in the province.” “We are proud to have been invited to partner with NNTC and of what we have accomplished together with the quA-ymn solar facility,” said Shaun Wrubell, interim president and CEO, BluEarth Renewables. “We worked closely with NNTC through every stage of development, and we look forward to continuing our partnership on future projects.” The quA-ymn solar facility is set to be joined by two other clean power projects located in the Highland Valley area between Ashcroft and Logan Lake, both of which were announced in December 2024. The ShTSaQU solar project is a partnership between BluEarth Renewables and the Oregon Jack Creek Band, which will provide 104 megawatts of capacity. The Highland Valley wind project is a partnership between Capstone Infrastructure and the Ashcroft Indian Band, with a size (in megawatts) of 197. Capstone is also partnering with the Lower Nicola Indian Band on the Mount Mabel Wind Project, which will have a project size of 143 megawatts and be located east of Highway 5 between Merritt and Lac Le Jeune.

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Laughing double killer jailed for life after murdering his pregnant girlfriend
Technology

Laughing double killer jailed for life after murdering his pregnant girlfriend

A convicted murderer has been jailed for life today with a minimum term of 42 years for stabbing his pregnant girlfriend to death when she refused to abort their baby. Shaine March was out of prison on licence when he knifed 32-year-old Alana Odysseos 19 times at her home in Walthamstow, east London. March later told police about his attack on the mum: "I did it. I killed her, hahahaha." He refused to appear at the Old Bailey on Friday after telling prison staff: "It's only a sentencing." Members of Alana's family watched proceedings as prosecutor Louise Oakley said the court had the power to compel him to attend. She said: "It is important to the family he is present at the hearing to hear the effect he has had on that family." Mr Justice Murray adjourned the hearing briefly for further inquiries to be made, saying he was "reluctant" to give March the option of attending on videolink. March was jailed for life at the age of 21 after fatally stabbing Andre Dummond in the neck at a McDonald’s restaurant in January 2000. He was released on licence in early 2013, but was recalled to jail later that year after an assault on another partner and was released again in February 2018. Alana had just discovered she was expecting a child with March, a violent and controlling boyfriend who family and friends had urged her to leave. But they were still together on the night of the attack, when Alana, who had two young daughters, was overheard refusing March’s request to have an abortion saying: "I don't want to kill my baby." March, 47, of Surrey Quays, south-east London, initially denied murder and went on trial at the Old Bailey. But he changed his plea to guilty, after a key expert in his defence said they could not support the idea that the stabbing happened when his responsibility was diminished. Neighbours in Walthamstow, North East London, heard Alana say: "I don't want to kill my baby." She was found in the street bleeding from multiple wounds. The Old Bailey trial heard that cafe staff later found a man covered in blood who said he had killed his wife and child. Alana withdrew from friends after she started dating March, as he controlled her behaviour and movements. She told a friend how the thug banned her from talking to people, threw away her child’s toys, and once smashed a glass in her face. Her sister urged her to leave the killer after she revealed he had accused her of cheating, forced her to delete male contacts from her phone, and hurled verbal abuse at her, the court heard. But they were still in contact on July 22 last year, when he killed her in the early hours of the morning. Prosecutor Louise Oakley said Alana was found outside her home. “She was wearing her nightie and a dressing gown. She was clutching her right side. She was bleeding from multiple stab wounds to her body. “She was shouting ‘Shaine stabbed me, he stabbed me’, and ‘Shaine stabbed me, he stabbed me, help, help’.” The court heard March “walked away” while efforts were ongoing to save her life. Ms Oakley told jurors: “By July 2024, she had been in a relationship with the defendant for approximately four months on the date of her death, and had recently discovered she was pregnant. “She was someone who had experienced huge personal loss following the death of two partners who were the fathers of her children. She was vulnerable and all she wanted was to be loved. She desperately wanted to create a family environment for her two-year-old daughter.” Ms Oakley said Alana had told friends before she died that there was trouble in her relationship. “She disclosed to a friend that she was not allowed to talk to people, and that she had to answer the telephone to him at all times, day or night, including video calls to prove where she was, who she was with, and what she was doing. That they would also argue constantly. “In other conversations she also divulged that the defendant had destroyed or thrown out all of her daughter’s toys and that they had argued about the fact she had recently discovered she was pregnant. She admitted that she was scared of the defendant and had been assaulted by him.” The day before the fatal stabbing, Alana told her sister that March was “acting up”. Her sister told her: “U deserve so much better”, but she replied: “Can’t help who u love but he don’t love any of us.” At around midnight, neighbours overheard a lengthy argument, the court heard, with a male voice shouting “pregnant” and female voice pleading “come back” and “I don’t want to kill my baby”. Det Insp Aytac Necati, who led the Met Police investigation, said earlier this month: “My thoughts remain with Alana’s family and friends, as well as her young daughter, their lives will never be the same after she was so brutally taken away from them. March is a cowardly individual who showed absolutely no remorse for Alana or her family. "Today he has finally admitted murder and will rightly face the consequences of his actions. “This case shows the devastating impact domestic abuse has on victim-survivors, families and communities. I urge anyone who experiences domestic abuse or controlling behaviour to report it to police, our officers will listen and will support you.”

Tom Pettifor
You can't take the Arcs out of Arc Raiders, and if you want the robots nerfed, you're missing the whole point
Technology

You can't take the Arcs out of Arc Raiders, and if you want the robots nerfed, you're missing the whole point

If you've ever tried to extract via the Dam Battlegrounds Water Treatment elevator in Arc Raiders then you've probably come across the big angry robot, otherwise known as an Arc Leaper, that likes to sit next to the extraction site, plotting the downfall of any raider naïve enough to walk too close to it. I have had plenty of close calls with this Leaper as it really manages to pick its moments to rain hellfire down upon my friends and I. Just last night I was trying to reason with another squad as to why we should stop fighting and all just get into the lift to Speranza, only for the Leaper to jump into the middle of these peace negotiations and mess it all up. So, I'm well aware of how much of a pain these big Arcs can be, but I don't want that to change. There's been a few rumblings among some Arc Raiders players that the bigger Arcs need to get nerfed: "The rocketeers killed millions of players over 2 days in the server slam. They are too strong." With others noticing how a lot of streamers have been calling for this as the bots are just too hard to fight and take down. But I think they're all missing the point. Arcs like Rocketeers, Queens, and even Leapers aren't objectives for new players, they're obstacles. They add tension to the PvEvP game or offer incentives for random squads to team up and work together to take them down. Players shouldn't be able to drop into Arc Raiders and immediately start taking down some of the biggest Arcs on the map. Having to crawl between buildings in the Buried City, looting items and navigating other squads all while keeping an eye out for that Rocketeer, which you could've sworn was just by the tower but has since disappeared, makes Arc Raiders stressful in exactly the right way for an extraction shooter. Embark Studios may well tinker with the difficulties of certain Arcs going forward, but let's not cry for the game to be made easier after just one day. I love the fact that it'll take some time and a hell of a lot of gear to finally be able to stand up to a Rocketeer—otherwise, what the hell am I collecting all this junk for? These big angry robots are also a great incentive for randoms to team up together. My favourite experience during the preview was my squad brokering peace with a rival group after realising we weren't getting anywhere trying to kill each other, as both teams were simply camped out behind derelict buildings, sitting ducks for any passing Arcs. PC Gamer's courageous guides writer, Rory Norris, was the first to initiate peace talks, tentatively approaching the other players with words of reassurance like "No guns, no guns" and "Hello?" And by Jove, it worked. Together, we fought and destroyed an Arc Queen that was terrorising a nearby building, bringing it to its knees by hurling explosives at it until it just keeled over. And the best part? There was enough loot for all. Everyone got to take a valuable back home; there was no squabbling for resources or insidious backstabbing, although that idea was briefly floated around before I shut it down. Nope, just good teamwork, rewarding fun, and impeccable vibes. If you hate getting stomped on by Arcs, then you can simply not mess with them. It's by no means bad to avoid the big Arcs that seem a little scary and just go after smaller bots that you can easily take down with a couple of shots to their weak spots. That's the beauty of Arc Raiders: it doesn't force a particular play style and pretty much just lets players traverse the maps how they see fit. Eventually, you might be able to take down a big Arc, but until then, you've got a worthy goal to strive towards.

Elie Gould
Doctor names popular fruit as 'one of the worst you can eat' in warning
Technology

Doctor names popular fruit as 'one of the worst you can eat' in warning

A sweet-tasting fruit loved by Brits up and down the country is actually "one of the worst" you can eat due to one specific reason, a doctor has claimed. Dr David Céspedes, described by Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo as a public health expert, recently took to social media to share his concerns about a well-loved fruit commonly enjoyed by tennis fans each year at Wimbledon . He was, of course, talking about strawberries, but he wasn't suggesting that they're not good for us. Indeed, he was referring to the chemicals that we use to protect them against pests, saying they accumulate in strawberries more than "any other fruit". In fact, strawberries are packed full of antioxidants and vitamins , according to Healthline. It adds that the former, as well as plant compounds found within the fruit, could even have benefits for our blood sugar management and heart health. Dr Céspedes, however, points out that "most people" are making a mistake when it comes to strawberry preparation, one that is simply not "enough" to address the pesticides coating the fruit. He said: "Unfortunately, strawberries are one of the worst fruits you can eat. They accumulate more pesticides than any other fruit, and the worst thing is that most people think that simply rinsing them with water is enough. "The most common mistake is to put them under the tap for five seconds and keep them moist in the fridge. This does not remove the residue and, on top of that, they spoil much sooner." David went on to share his method for cleaning strawberries, claiming that people should soak the fruit for 10 minutes in "water with salt or vinegar at 3%", ensuring they're rinsed thoroughly. He added that you should then dry the fruit and keep the strawberries in a well-ventilated container , suggesting that this way will help them last and make them "really clean". In addition to the above benefits, strawberries are also low in calories and contain vitamin C, manganese, vitamin B9, and potassium. Meanwhile, it has also been suggested that they could aid in cancer prevention . Studies have indicated that berries could help stave off a number of cancers through their capacity to tackle both inflammation and oxidative stress. Healthline also indicated that strawberries have been demonstrated to "inhibit" tumour formation. It noted that this applies to animals that have mouth cancer , as well as human liver cancer cells. According to the non-profit organisation Pesticide Action Network UK, research in 2024 demonstrated that many common foods contain PFAS pesticides, with strawberries being the "worst offenders". It wrote that, in 2022, 95 per cent of the 120 samples examined by the Government contained these pesticides, which are also known by the somewhat ominous moniker of "forever chemicals". It means that PFASs can hang around not only in the environment , but can also "accumulate" in our tissue, blood and bones. On its list of the worst offenders, strawberries came first, followed by grapes, cherries, spinach, tomatoes, and peaches/nectarines.

Maria Ortega,Matt Davies
Shafaq Naaz Announces Relationship On Instagram; Shares Adorable Pics With Boyfriend
Technology

Shafaq Naaz Announces Relationship On Instagram; Shares Adorable Pics With Boyfriend

Shafaq Naaz, a sister of Sheezan Khan and Falaq Naaz, has officially announced her relationship on Instagram. She shared a bunch of pictures with her boyfriend in which the actress is looking supremely happy. For the unversed, Shafaq had kept her relationship under wraps for a long time, but now, she has officially revealed the face of her beau. Shafaq Naaz is in love Shafaq Naaz shared many adorable monochrome pictures with her boyfriend. It has to be mentioned that the actress didn’t reveal the name of her beau in the post. In the photos, the couple is looking amazing together. We must say, they are indeed looking happy together. Shafaq Naaz captioned the post as, “घर ❤ (home).” Well, Shafaq’s caption for her boyfriend is indeed special. She considers him her everything. The Mahabharat actress’ post is going viral on social media and many celebrities have started congratulating Shafaq in the comments section. Farnaz Shetty wrote, “Its official now cuties. I’m getting emotional. may god always love and protect you both." Jaswir Kaur commented, “Congratulations.” Apart from celebs, many fans have also congratulated the actress’ on the new beginning of her life. Also Read : Shafaq Naaz Takes Break From Work To Recover From Knee Surgery Talking about Shafaq Naaz, the actress has worked in several TV shows and movies. In 2023, the actress was supposed to get married to Muscat-based businessman, Zeeshan. However, the wedding got cancelled. In an interview with Bombay Times, Shafaq Naaz revealed the reason behind it. She said, “Marriage involves not just two individuals but also their families. When two families get together, differences can arise. Har family mein shaadi ke time par problems hoti hain aur thoda disagreement rehta hai, especially in the case of love marriages. Sadly, our families, too, had some misunderstandings, but I don’t want to blame anyone.” Let us tell you, Shafaq Naaz is not in touch with her family members, including her sister, Falaq, and brother, Sheezan Khan. Stay tuned for more updates!

Sumit Rajguru
The Witcher Season 4 ending explained from Ciri's fate to Emperor Emhyr plan
Technology

The Witcher Season 4 ending explained from Ciri's fate to Emperor Emhyr plan

WARNING: This article contains major spoilers for The Witcher season 4 Season four of The Witcher has landed on Netflix after much excitement and anticipation with Liam Hemsworth stepping in the titular role of Geralt of Rivia replacing Henry Cavill. The eight-episode outing was dropped in one go, moving away from the streamer releasing the series in parts and marks the penultimate season. There will be a final fifth instalment which will finish the adaptation based on Andrzej Sapkowski's saga . Throughout the new series, viewers will see key players separated and fighting to be reunited with Ciri of Cintra (played by Freya Allan) deciding to go by the name Falka as she journeyed with and outlaw outfit known as The Rats. Meanwhile, Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra) battles against the villainous Vilgefortz (Mahesh Jadu). In all of this, Geralt is joined by an unusual group of allies trying to find his Child of Surprise, while Ciri’s father Emhyr var Emreis (Bart Edwards) was also seeking her out to fulfil Ithlinne's Prophecy and ensure his bloodline. As the epic story starts to build towards its final outing, here are the main plot points from the season four finale. Geralt Geralt travelled with his company, which eventually became referred to as his hanza, including high vampire Regis (Laurence Fishburne), bard Jaskier (Joey Batey), former soldier Cahir (Eamonn Farren), archer Milva (Meng'er Zhang) and dwarf Zoltan Chivay (Danny Woodburn) on their search for Ciri and headed towards Nilfgard. This came after dwarves Yarpen Zigrin and Percival opted to return to Mahakam and help their kinsmen back home. The remaining members of the party attempted to use a ferry to cross the river Yaruga and ended up finding themselves in the middle of a ferocious battle between Northern armies and Nilfgard soldiers. The group are on their way to see some druids help them find Ciri's location and knowing their only option was to cross the bridge, they are forced to fight their way through. Meanwhile, although she initially saves the group, Milva is unable to finish the battle as she discovers that she is suffering a miscarriage. Regis sticks with her to aid her recovery. For his part in the Battle of the Bridge, Queen Meve dubs Geralt a knight and he officially becomes Geralt of Rivia. Yennefer Yennefer takes a break from tracking down Vilgefortz to portal herself to Geralt. How she managed to know his exact location is not revealed. Neither is how they managed to find a luxurious tent that they spend the night together in. Following their eventful reunion, she continues her own journey to face Vilgefortz. In yet another conversation bemoaning the brotherhood for the hundredth time, Yen finally gets to the point and tells her surviving friends they should create their own faction, a 'Lodge' of sorceresses. Later, she gives a dagger used to injure Vilgefortz to Triss who uses it to track him down. Although she faces quite a swim to get there. Before she leaves, Yen makes Triss promise to rebuild Aretuza with or without her. Vilgefortz Vilgefortz survived the battle between the mages and sorceresses at Montecalvo naturally but his army appears decimated. He quickly kills the only survivors and collects body parts from them. For what means it is far from clear. Nimue After seeing her in the opening episode, we once again see Nimue and Stribog the storyteller. However, she is much older now. She announces she is to join the school at Aretuza and can't wait to tread the same stones as Yennefer. This character is a reference to some significant events in the book, however significantly changed. Nimue is actually the name of the Lady of the Lake in Arthurian legend. The Lady of the Lake happens to be the name of the last book in the saga, which will be the basis for season five. Nimue says she feels a connection to Ciri, which is very much true in the books. However, readers will know she is in the wrong place and time for that. Ciri and the Rats After discovering that the Emperor is set to marry a fake Ciri, the real one seemingly decides to make a dramatic return. She changes her mind upon learning her new friends are in immediate danger. Leo Bonhart (Sharlto Copley) has set up a trap at an inn for the Rats. He has been tracking them with a valuable bounty placed on all their heads. Despite believing they have the drop on him, Leo proves too much for the Rats. It doesn't take them long to cut them all down and Ciri is far too late to save any of her friends, finding them all dead. Even though she is clearly a strong fighter by now, Leo still manages to defeat Ciri and captures her. He forces her to watch as he cuts off the heads of the Rats, ready for them to be turned in for their bounties. Earlier, Leo was pondering a leaflet which demanded Ciri be returned alive, which seems to be the only reason he keeps her tied up with her ultimate fate yet to be shown. Emperor Emhyr var Emreis Xarthisius tells Emhyr that there was a way to accelerate the path to Ithlinne’s prophecy, but it was dangerous. Already believing he needs to kill Geralt, in the season's final moments, Emhyr is introduced to a creature that would help do just that. The season ends on this 'specimen' screeching and growling as Emhyr utters the most repeated word of the series - 'destiny' and instructs whatever this creature is to find Geralt. Fans will be eager to know what monster this is supposed to be as it does not appear to be referencing any part of the books. The Witcher is streaming on Netflix now.

Neela Debnath,Peter Harris
8 Unique Experiences You Can (And Should) Book For Your Winter Honeymoon
Technology

8 Unique Experiences You Can (And Should) Book For Your Winter Honeymoon

Winters are almost here, and if you’re planning something special for your honeymoon, this is the perfect time to surprise your partner with a trip that’s both romantic and adventurous. Winters offer some of the most stunning worldwide experiences. How does the idea sound — sipping a mug of hot chocolate by the fireplace after a long day of hiking, watching the northern lights paint the sky with their colours, or relaxing in a hot spring while snowflakes fall gently around you? If you are someone who is overwhelmed by the number of options, then the following list of the most romantic experiences will assist you in surprising your partner: Watching the Northern Lights – Tromsø, Norway Few experiences compare to witnessing the aurora borealis dance across the Arctic sky. In Tromsø couples wrap up in warm blankets, drink hot tea, and watch the lights dance and change their colors over snow-covered landscapes. Besides, you can also trek to Trollunga which is approximately a 6-hours journey. The city gets quiet and beautiful due to snow in winter and thus, it is perfect for honeymooners who want a mix of romance and adventure. Guided tours or even private excursions are available which will make your trip more memorable. Private Snow Safari – Gulmarg, India Nothing can be more memorable and exciting for a couple than a private snow safari in the Himalayas of Gulmarg. Gliding down the slopes on skis, strapping on a pair of snowshoes for a walk in the snow or simply walking through powdery snow gives a sense of thrill, while cosy mountain lodges provide the perfect retreat afterwards. The winter landscape with snow-covered pine trees and mountains makes a perfect romantic getaway that is completely detached from the rest of the world. Staying in an Ice Hotel – Jukkasjärvi, SwedenCan you imagine that? Spending a night in a hotel which is made entirely out of ice and snow. Ice Hotel in Sweden is an absolute experience for couples. Every room is differently built and if you use the thermal sleeping bags provided, you’ll be safe and warm. Besides, you can also go for ice fishing and later cook that fish with your own hands for your dinner. Take cocktails at the Ice Bar, watch snowfall through the window, and enjoy waking up to a sparkling winter wonderland. Desert Nights – Jaisalmer, India Winter transforms Rajasthan’s desert into a place of magic. Luxury tents, camel safari at sunset and folk performances under the star-rich sky are the perfect things for city-weary couples looking for both culture and adventure. The fresh night air and the vast golden dunes make up a unique, romantic setting that is definitely not like the typical winter escapes. Hot Air Balloon Ride – Cappadocia, TurkeyCappadocia’s landscapes are spectacular in winter. A sunrise hot air balloon ride offers breathtaking views. Champagne in hand, you float over valleys and rock formations, creating a mix of adventure, and romance. Dog Sledding Adventure – Lapland, FinlandExperience the most wonderful way of exploring the Arctic wilds: dog sledding. Travel through snow-covered forests, take in the fresh air and enjoy the huskies leading you on the walks amongst the hills. To top it all off, indulge in the welcoming meal in a traditional Finnish cabin and treat yourself with the best foods that you could have. Wine Tasting – Tuscany, ItalyThe winter season in Tuscany is a very lovely and romantic time. Vineyards turn quiet, towns cover themselves with a thin layer of frost, and private wine tastings are so chic and luxurious. Couples can take long walks through the medieval-styled streets, have delicious Italian meals near the fireplace, and discover the charm of winter travel while indulging in the region’s culinary delights. Soaking in Hot Springs – Blue Lagoon, Iceland Warm geothermal waters steam in the cold air, surrounded by volcanic landscapes. Couples can unwind together, enjoying the contrast of icy surroundings and soothing warm waters — a perfect way to end a day of Icelandic winter adventures. Travel News - Find latest news and tips based on Indian and World travel including top 10 travel destination, tourism information, how to reach visit and more at Times Now.

Tn Lifestyle Desk
Man Utd keeper Senne Lammens issues response to his new nickname given by fans
Technology

Man Utd keeper Senne Lammens issues response to his new nickname given by fans

Manchester United goalkeeper Senne Lammens has responded to the new nickname given to him by fans of his new club. The Belgian shot-stopper joined the Premier League side during the summer alongside a raft of high profile recruitments which included the likes of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha. Earlier in the month, Lammens' former coach Hayk Milkon said he could become the best goalkeeper in the world . He also noted that he'd noticed articles describing the "boring" clothes Lammens wore when reporting to international duty, but he insisted "it's just the way Senne is", adding that it emphasises his calm nature and ability to keep his feet on the ground as an elite sportsman. Now, in a new interview, Lammens himself was asked about a new nickname - 'The Boring One'. Of course, he has affectionately been given this nickname. "I understand I might come across as 'boring,' but that's the goalkeeper I want to be," he said, while grinning, to Belgian media outlet HLN. "I don't do anything crazy. In recent years, players have come through here who... weren't boring. But I want to stand for consistency. Staying calm, in good times and bad. "If you want a successful career, you have to have that quality, I think. I saw that in Simon Mignolet (at Club Brugge) and Jean Butez (at Antwerp). They were my role models. I was able to steal from them with my eyes." READ MORE: Andoni Iraola addresses Bournemouth future after Man Utd and Chelsea links READ MORE: Man Utd cult hero backs Red Devils for Premier League title challenge – ‘Why not?’ When asked if he's queried Thibaut Courtois for advice, he nodded, before answering: "We talked about English football during the last international break, together with Matz Sels. They know what it's like to be a goalkeeper in the Premier League . Being able to train with them in the national team also makes me better." United fans have also been chanting "Are you Schmeichel in disguise?" referring to legendary 'keeper Peter Schmeichel. When asked about this in his interview, he revealed he loves the praise. He explained: "It was wonderful to hear the supporters sing that to me. A huge compliment, especially after my first match. But I'm not getting too carried away with their enthusiasm. I still have a lot to prove to be mentioned in the same breath as Peter Schmeichel, you know." Despite speaking with such maturity, Lammens is still only 23 and has played just one full season of senior football. He signed for The Red Devils on transfer deadline day after a drawn out saga that linked Emiliano Martinez with the Old Trafford club. Seen as the less luxurious option as a goalkeeper, the transfer has worked out so far with plenty of positives to take from his first few months in the north west. Next up for United is a short away trip to the Midlands, where they'll face Sean Dyche's Nottingham Forest . With nine games played, United are in sixth place with 16 points. Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

Dylan James
Autotrader urges UK drivers to never park under these three types of trees
Technology

Autotrader urges UK drivers to never park under these three types of trees

With autumn causing leaves to fall across the country daily, UK motorists could be parking their vehicles underneath some costly trees. In a fresh warning, car-selling specialists at Autotrader are reminding drivers which trees are the worst offenders when it comes to staining paintwork. Autotrader's LCV Reviewer Tom Roberts explains the importance of car care during the colder and wetter months . He said: "Many common UK trees, like oak and sycamore, release tannins and organic acids where their wet leaves land, and these substances can stain or corrode the paintwork on your car if they are not removed in time. "Larger cars like MPVs are at a higher risk of catching wet leaves, with their larger roofs providing more surface area for leaves to cling to. Simple precautions, like removing the leaves from the roof and body of your car and washing your car regularly, even in winter, can help stop this damage from happening, as well as being mindful of which kind of tree you’re parking under." The car specialist also reminds motorists parking under or near trees this autumn to regularly remove fallen leaves from their cars, rather than waiting for rain or a car wash to remove them. He said: "If you have no choice but to park under a tree, you should try to remove any fallen leaves regularly to prevent prolonged exposure to tannins and sap. "Also, be aware that removing hardened sap on your own can make the damage worse, so it’s best to visit a professional detailer to avoid further degradation to your car’s paintwork. Consider applying a protective layer of wax or sealant on the exterior of your car, as an extra line of defence. "Protecting your paintwork like this will not only hopefully help you avoid paying for costly repairs but will help the car maintain its value when the time comes to sell it on." Below is a list of his top 'worst offenders' to avoid parking under. Tom says that oak trees, one of the most common tree species in the UK, are well known for having particularly high levels of tannins. These are natural compounds that prevent decay in plants, but if wet oak leaves land on your car, these compounds can leach out and leave stubborn brown or yellow stains. "This can be even more problematic for cars with light coloured paintwork, where removing the stain can prove more difficult without professional treatment," he said. Sycamore trees aren’t native to the UK but are common. Tom says: "These leaves also leach tannins, which can result in brown spots on the paintwork of a car, but it’s the sap they produce that can be more problematic. "Becoming sticky with a substance called honeydew, which is produced by aphids feeding on the leaves, the sap can land on cars and create a breeding ground for mould, or the leaves falling create debris, which can also impact the paintwork." Maple trees, native to the UK, are found in both rural and urban areas. Similar to oak trees and sycamore trees, Maple tree leaves hold tannins that can stain car paint when wet, but like sycamore trees, it’s the sap they produce that predominantly causes car problems. Tom says: "Maple tree sap tends to harden and bond tightly to a car's paintwork when left for a period, becoming incredibly difficult to remove. If caught early enough, hot water and soap can be effective; however, once it has hardened, professional detailing may be necessary to remove it without damaging the car." Pine trees are less common in the UK, but Scots Pine is a native species and can be found around car parking areas in woodlands. Pine needles are notorious for their extremely sticky sap, according to Tom, which also hardens quickly, and can cause cracks in the vehicle’s clear coat – leading to rust and corrosion. Tom says: "Silver birch and downy birch trees are native to the UK and are found throughout the country. Wild cherry trees and black poplar trees can also be found around some parts of the UK. All these trees produce sticky sap that hardens quickly, but poplar sap can be particularly corrosive and thus damaging to car paintwork."

Charlotte Smith
Virginia Giuffre's family demand Andrew probe and fire Donald Trump warning
Technology

Virginia Giuffre's family demand Andrew probe and fire Donald Trump warning

Virginia Giuffre's brother has called on the King to apply serious pressure on Donald Trump to release the Jeffrey Epstein files as the family demand an investigation into banished former prince, Andrew. They have urged the monarch to to tell the US President "put your big boy pants on" as the wait goes on to find out exactly who had access to the convicted sex offender's private island. Sky Roberts, tragic Virginia's younger brother, says the King is "setting a roadmap" after he stripped Andrew's titles and turfed him out of Royal Lodge - but he should not stop there. He says police must investigate the former prince, and demanded the notorious files be opened to see who else is named. Andrew was accused by Virginia of having sex with her in March 2001, when she was just 17. She alleges she had been trafficked by Epstein and his girlfriend, Ghislaine Maxwell . Virginia claimed that Epstein and Maxwell had taken her to Tramp nightclub in London, where she met with Andrew and later had sex with him that night. She claimed that Epstein had paid her $15,000 after sleeping with the royal. Andrew vehemently denied the allegations. Now Mr Roberts, speaking to Sky News, said the King is "setting a precedent to the rest of the world to say I do stand with survivors." He added: "It's still not enough in the sense that he's still walking around a free man. Let's not be naive that he's not going to be living on the side of the road here." Mr Roberts says Andrew "should be investigated" and calls on the King to up the heat on the American government. "He should put pressure on President Trump," he says. "He should tell President Trump 'put your big boy pants on' and let's get these Epstein files released so that we can go after these monsters properly." Sky previously told Good Morning Britain: "He should be willing to come forward and have his day in court. As of now, he has not complied with investigation; he has almost in some ways, refused to come forward and give a proper investigation. We're asking for his day in court, we're asking for a thorough investigation." Andrew has continually said he is willing to help American investigators. "I'm more than willing to give my sister's testimony right in front of him [King Charles]," Sky said, before going on to say: "I'd have that conversation with him, I'll come to London tomorrow, and we can have that conversation together." Sky said: "I hope we're doing her a little bit of justice in this. I'm so proud of her, I'm so proud of the UK people, I'm proud of the King. It just proves that if you just come forward and tell the truth and let your voice be heard, change can happen." Last night, Virginia's family said that the news had seen her "declare a victory". In a statement shared with BBC News, they said that she "brought down a British prince with her truth and extraordinary courage." The statement read: "Today, an ordinary American girl from an ordinary American family brought down a British prince with her truth and extraordinary courage. "Virginia Roberts Giuffre, our sister, a child when she was sexually assaulted by Andrew, never stopped fighting for accountability for what had happened to her and countless other survivors like her. Today, she declares a victory. We, her family, along with her survivor sisters, continue Virginia’s battle and will not rest until the same accountability applies to all of her abusers and abetters, connected to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell." In a rare move on Thursday, Buckingham Palace issued an extremely rare statement, confirming the King had initiated proceedings to strip the disgraced royal of all his titles. They said: "His Majesty has today initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew. Prince Andrew will now be known as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. His lease on Royal Lodge has, to date, provided him with legal protection to continue in residence. "Formal notice has now been served to surrender the lease, and he will move to alternative private accommodation. These censures are deemed necessary, notwithstanding the fact that he continues to deny the allegations against him. Their Majesties wish to make clear that their thoughts and utmost sympathies have been, and will remain with, the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse."

Sam Elliott-Gibbs
BLACKPINK, TWICE No Longer Top Streamed Girl Groups, THIS New Band Surpasses Them On Spotify
Technology

BLACKPINK, TWICE No Longer Top Streamed Girl Groups, THIS New Band Surpasses Them On Spotify

Rising global K-pop girl group KATSEYE has achieved a remarkable milestone, surpassing BLACKPINK and TWICE to become the most streamed girl group on Spotify. The six-member group has now crossed 33 million monthly listeners, outpacing BLACKPINK’s 27 million and TWICE’s 26 million, marking a major shift in the global girl group streaming landscape. KATSEYE surpasses K-pop biggies BLACKPINK, TWICE KATSEYE’s recent single Beautiful Chaos has been a key driver behind their explosive streaming growth. The track, which blends emotional pop melodies with futuristic beats, has gone viral on TikTok and Instagram, fueling massive global engagement. The group’s previous hits, Gnarly and Gabriela, also contributed significantly to their meteoric rise on digital platforms, showcasing their versatile sound and cross-cultural appeal. The achievement proves KATSEYE is one of the most promising acts in the new generation of K-pop artists, demonstrating how global audiences are rapidly embracing their style, concept, and energy. More about KATSEYE Formed through the global talent competition The Debut: Dream Academy, KATSEYE is a multinational girl group under HYBE and Geffen Records. The lineup includes members from the United States, South Korea, the Philippines, and Switzerland, reflecting the group’s international roots and appeal. The group is composed of six members: Daniela, Lara, Manon, Megan, Sophia, and Yoonchae. Their debut EP was met with critical acclaim for its innovative production, strong vocals, and visually stunning music videos. Each release since has showcased the group’s evolution, with “Beautiful Chaos” cementing their status as a streaming powerhouse. With over 33 million monthly Spotify listeners and a rapidly growing fanbase across continents, KATSEYE’s momentum shows no signs of slowing. The group’s rise represents a generational shift in K-pop, where newer acts are now competing head-to-head with long-established titans like BLACKPINK and TWICE.

Risha Ganguly
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