Zebra

Zebra was fed up of his appearance. He hated the stripes on his body. How he wished he didn't possess the dual skin tone. Why couldn't he be either black or white?

"There is a reason," his father said.

"What reason Dad?" asked Zebra.

"The reason is equality. God gave us stripes so that we can respect every colour, love each other without any discrimination. We are lucky. We are united, unlike humans."

"But Dad, the humans are more advanced."

"Being advanced means living in peace son, not resorting to mindless wars."

Zebra now felt proud of his stripes.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - Z.

Yak

"This looks like a cow."

"Yes, but it is a Yak."

"Never heard about it."

"Welcome to the Himalayas."

The tourists were fascinated by Yak. They petted him and clicked pictures with him.

"Ah so much love," Yak felt good.

However, his happiness was short lived.

"Would you like to ride this animal?" the Guide asked. They nodded.

The tourists were thrilled sitting on the animal's back. The Guide calculated the profit he would be making due to this ride.

The Yak walked silently, his back hurting, yet careful not to be a cause of discomfort to his guests.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - Y.

X-Ray Tetra

The baby X-Ray Tetra was surprised when she came to know that humans fight among themselves. Why should there be rift among members of the same species, she wondered. Unable to find an answer, she sailed to her mother.

"Mom. We never fight with other X-Ray Tetras. We are peace loving fish. Why do humans quarrel and indulge in wars all the time?"

Her mother smiled, and replied, "That's because humans are not as transparent as us. Their motives are hidden, and one never knows what's going on in the other's mind. Doubts get nurtured when truth is concealed."


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - X.

A Drive Down The Starry Skies

A long day at work, tired, weary - return home at midnight - have left over pizza - hit the bed – sleep.

Wake up next morning – complain about weekdays – rant about work – count the number of days for the next occasion to enjoy – get ready – race to office.

This could have been my life, had I waited for special occasions to celebrate. However, luckily, my viewpoints changed when I once saw a little boy selling tea in a roadside stall. He was poor, and yet there was a smile on his face, of satisfaction and contentment.

“Do you like working here?” I had asked him once.

“Yes Sir. I can buy chocolates with the money I get, and I share them with my friends in evening school.”

Why worry about the complexities of life when in reality it’s way too simple? Live, love and laugh, because every moment is a blessing from God. Today is a gift, and so will be tomorrow. Why not celebrate each moment instead of waiting for special occasions?

When I return back from work at midnight, I rush to the kitchen and satiate my hunger. No, I do not go to the bed soon after that, but I walk down to the garage, take out my car, and drive out into the nights. I turn on a few songs in the music player, and head straight to the empty streets. On some days I prefer ghazal, while on other days slow romantic tracks make me smile. But what makes me smile the most is she, my better half. We both love long drives, and interestingly, she too stays awake for me so that she can be my company on these drives.

We often stop at a local dhaba, to munch on some snacks, coffee and omelette. The stars above provide the perfect blanket to our dreams. There is a sparkle in our eyes, as we look at each other, talking about yesterday, today and tomorrow. Love probably is the most valuable gift that one can have in life, and the best reason to celebrate.

We return home after a couple of hours, and unwind for the next day. There wasn't a party with large number of guests and delicacies, but we still call it a celebration. In fact everyday has been a sort of a grand party for me, and us, and we intend to continue it this way.

After all celebration starts at home, isn't it?

#CelebrateLifeAtIvy by owning a dream home at Ivy estate, an 85 acre estate with 34 acres of greenery and open spaces. Join the 1600 happy families already living here. Check out this walkthrough video and decide for yourself.

Woodpecker

"Is that a plane?"

"No."

"Superman?"

"No."

"A bird?"

"Not just any bird. That's a woodpecker."

As hordes of Woodpeckers thronged the city skyline, fear rained on the people. They rushed everywhere, seeking shelter. The Woodpecker was someone they always saw on trees, digging holes in the bark. However, of late, they had suddenly turned violent, attacking homes and people with their beaks. Holes were dug in walls of buildings and vehicles, in turn damaging them.

There were no more trees. The Woodpeckers needed somewhere to dig, to build their nest. Humans regretted now. Unfortunately, it was too late.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - W.

Stay Fresh With Hydro-Jal Plus

It’s summer, the time of the year when we prefer quenching our thirst sipping soft drinks. We love the taste, and the cold refreshment seemingly associated with them. Now, there is a reason why I used the term ‘seemingly’. What appears to be a source of instant refreshment is actually the short cut to danger and health hazards guaranteed in the longer run. The high concentration of sugar and acidity in soft drinks do more harm than good. They steal water from the body that could lead to dehydration, thus reducing our immunity and making us weak right at the cellular level. Our health should be of primary importance. Shouldn’t we take extra care to preserve it by drinking the right type of water?

Water can either be acidic or alkaline. Years of research have proved that alkaline water is more beneficial in terms of calcium retention and bone strength. Acidic water results in consumption of toxic materials, which are hazardous. Infections and diseases occur, making one prone to sickness and ill health.

Households receive tap water that is used for daily activities. Should tap water be consumed? The answer is no due to the large amount of impurities that it may contain. To solve this problem, several brands have launched water purifiers that convert the tap water to purified water. However, as weird as it may sound, but purified water too isn’t good for consumption at all times. It does help when one is in the process of cleansing his body and drinks purified water for a few days, but using it as an option for a longer period of time is certainly not advisable. Purified water lowers the quantity of nutrients in body, and absorbs carbon dioxide when in contact with air. Thus, it tends to turn acidic.

Acidic water leads to dryness. To keep us hydrated we should opt for alkaline ionised water. Hydro-Jal Plus offers a perfect solution to produce water that’s best for us and our families. The Hydro-Jal Plus water ionizers use electrolysis to produce alkaline water that’s recipe for good health, nourishing and hydrating our systems. The high PH in this water neutralizes the acidic wastes present in our body, making us feel better and more energetic. Its negatively charged hydroxyl ions called ORP (Oxidation Reduction Potential) neutralize cancer causing positively charged free radicals. The hydroxyl ions act as antioxidants, detoxifying our bodies. They also lead to natural weight loss of fat.

If we list the benefits of alkaline water produced by Hydro-Jal Plus, we would observe the following points:

1)      Eliminates harmful toxins,

2)      Delays the aging process,

3)      Extra energy without extra calories,

4)      Improved concentration and focus,

5)      Increase in stamina,

6)      Leads to better sleep,

7)      No muscle pains,

8)      Helps in weight loss,

9)      Improves immunity,

10)   Boosts digestive system,

11)   Shields against common cold,

12)   Helps to fight constipation,

13)   Makes skin and hair more beautiful,

14)   Decreases lactic acid production,

15)   Reduces cramping of muscles,

16)   Leads to true hydration,

17)   Vital nutrients are absorbed more efficiently,

18)   Improved taste of water.

Phew. Aren’t these reasons enough to install Hydro-Jal Plus in our homes? But hey, these aren’t all. We can even use the Ionized Acid Water from Hydro-Jal Plus in a large number of ways. For instance, it could be a good alternative to hair conditioner, deodorant and aftershave. It can be used to remove dandruff, acne and wrinkles, thus improving the overall appearance. It can also help in cleaning our homes and household goods.

We live in a world infested in pollution. It's difficult to stay fit in such circumstances. However, we can definitely adopt the best possible means to make our drinking water healthier and better. Hydro-Jal Plus is, therefore, a necessity today in every household.

Check out the official page below:

http://hydrojalplus.com

Find Hydro-Jal Plus on Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/HydroJalPlus

Follow Hydro-Jal Plus on Twitter:

https://twitter.com/HydroJalPlus

Vulture

A lot had changed. The world. Her world.

"Love me. Forever," - those were his words, before breathing his last. He had searched for food, for days, while she looked after their kids in the nest. When he returned, he had food for all of them, but not enough to feed himself. When she realized that he was starving, it was too late.

It was time for revenge. The humans had cut off their home, the forests. Her race was on the brink of extinction.

"His life wouldn't go in vain. Humans have to pay," she, the Vulture vowed.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - V.

Unicorn

"Are you real?" the little child asked surprised.

The Unicorn nodded. The unearthly beauty was something the child had never witnessed. His mouth stayed wide open in amazement.

The Unicorn understood the human language. After all, how could he forget the long association with this much dreaded species. Thousands of years ago the humans had cut off his ancestors' horns, depriving them of their magic and treating them like horses. It was then that the remaining unicorns decided to be invisible to mankind, except children who have pure hearts.

"Look Dad, my new friend."

"I can't see anyone son."


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - U.

Tortoise

"And that's how I defeated the swift rabbit in the race," the Tortoise narrated his tale of victory to the youngsters gathered around him.

"Why not anymore? Ha ha. Stop resting on your past laurels," everyone laughed at him, and the crowd dispersed.

The Tortoise was hurt. His reputation was at stake. He knew he wouldn't win against the rabbit anymore, as the latter may not make the same mistake of falling asleep during the race. He had another idea, and went to the rabbit.

"What will you take to lose?" he asked the rabbit.

The match was fixed.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - T.

Sheep

He gazed at the motley of colourful woolen garments that shone amidst the crowd assembled in the City Center for their daily morning prayer. He loved watching this ritual, where all residents of the city conglomerated to thank the God every morning.

It was winter, the season which was meant to be his; but alas, not anymore.

As the people shook hands and went their respective ways, the poor Sheep shivered in cold. He was sheared last week, his wool now keeping the people warm. He walked to a corner, sat, and closed his eyes, counting his last breaths.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - S.

Rat

"Don't be overconfident. It only leads to failure," his mother explained.

The young haughty Rat replied, "Chill Mom. Nothing will happen. I am an expert in stealing food. Have I ever been caught?"

The poor mother sighed and prayed God to help her son.

Rat went out to satisfy his hunger. At a distance he saw a large piece of cheese.

"Wow," he thought, and leapt at it.

"Thud!"

For a split second his mind went blank, and then the truth dawned upon him. He was trapped. The cheese was a bait to bring him to the dark cage.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - R.

Quail

She had locked herself in her room since the past six hours, her eyes red from all the crying. Poor Quail, she was depressed. Nobody paid her attention. She had no friends.. It was as if she didn't even exist.

There was a knock. A classmate stood outside. Was she being missed?

"Hi," Quail smiled.

"I am looking for Swan. Have you seen her?"

Quail nodded her head. She wasn't being missed.

"I have never seen you before. Are you new?"

"No," replied Quail.

"Ah okay. Bye."

Quail smiled. She had finally found a friend. They called her Loneliness.

This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - Q.

Pigeon

He was a messenger of love, carrying letters from one place to another. Lovestruck prince and princesses who were separated by distance, scribbled their thoughts in perfumed pages, attaching them to the Pigeon. He was quicker than the public postal system. The Pigeon loved his job too. Every time he saw the smile on the recipients' faces, he felt satisfied.

"It's our anniversary. Will you return early tonight?" the Pigeon's wife requested.

"I don't know. I have to do my job too," he answered brusquely.

He went on distributing love everywhere. His wife kept on waiting for her share.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - P.

Ostrich

The jungle had become a land of constant fear. Violence, greed and lust had taken control, with a handful of wicked animals creating havoc on the entire wildlife with their cruel schemes.

The Ostrich, one of the strongest birds, was asked, "Why don't you do anything about this?"

"We will punish all types of evil," he replied.

As he was walking through the jungle, he saw a pack of hyenas chasing some poor rabbits. The Ostrich, not wanting to meddle with danger, buried his head in the sand.

Next day, he organized a protest march against the evil hyenas.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - O.

Nightingale

He sang to the stars. He sang to the moon. The pleasant tune of the Nightingale filled the night sky creating an ambiance of comfort. He loved it. He knew his voice was beautiful, and he wished to give every human the solace he could through his tune.

The lights were switched off in the nearby apartment. "Perhaps my song is serving as a lullaby to the residents," he thought.

Most people had already slept, oblivious to the beautiful music. Those awake were busy with their smartphones, headphones plugged in their ears.

And the Nightingale kept singing, whole heartedly.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - N.

Mongoose

He scratched himself until blood oozed out from the pores. That was the only way to survive, to remove the venom from his body.

The Mongoose and snake fight drew crowds in huge numbers, and the organizers banked on it. He, the Mongoose, was kept in a glass box with deadly snakes, and the fight ensued. The thrilled audience gaped in horror and clapped. No one cared about the injuries inflicted on the Mongoose.

He was winning the fights, but losing on life. He could take it no more.

Today, he would lose the fight, to win against life.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - M.

Smartphone Redefined With ASUS Zenfone 2

Smartphones are the need of the hour. It keeps us connected to the world on the go, and helps us maintain communication at all times. It provides us with knowledge as well as entertainment, engaging us with its varied features and functionalities. As such, I was also looking for an efficient smartphone and heard about ASUS Zenfone 2. I checked its details and specifications, and realized that this is one phone which really defines smartness on every parameter. I can provide several reasons why ASUS Zenfone 2 is my current favourite. Here are five of them:

1. While a smartphone promises several features, often the lack of compatible processor messes up the experience. Applications tend to ‘hang’, while games get stuck in between as you play. Anyone who has come across such scenarios would agree how irritating it is. Zenfone 2 addresses this problem efficiently, equipped with upto 2.3GHz 64-bit Intel Atom Z3580 processor and 4GB RAM.
2. Smartphones often come associated with the complaint of quick battery drainage. Zenfone 2 takes care of this as well. With the introduction of ASUS Boostmaster Technology, the handset gets charged at double the speed. As such, one doesn’t need to wait for long for the phone to regain its battery power before operating it.
3. Most smartphones come with dual sim option; so does Zenfone 2. What’s new then, one would ask. Zenfone 2 features Dual Active technology. This means that if you are on a call using Sim 1, and if you receive a call on Sim 2, you can easily switch between the two Sims. This would ensure that one doesn’t miss any important calls. Isn’t that great?
4. I love the design of Zenfone 2. The ultra thin body and the comfortable arc structure provides great look with an aesthetic appeal. The remarkable feature of its layout is the 5.5-inch Full HD IPS display with incredible 403ppi pixel density. Thus, movie watching experience too gets a boost in such a rich viewing screen.
5. The camera of Zenfone 2 is astonishing. Its 13MP PixelMaster camera and f/2.0-aperture lens will leave no stone unturned in providing the best quality pictures. The zero shutter lag ensures that the moments get captured in real time, and special memories are not lost. What is more, it also captures bright images in low light without flash, and that’s a big plus. One can also use Real Tone flash for warmer skin tones and more accurate colours.

As I go through these features again and again, I fall in love with the ASUS Zenfone 2 each time. I am now convinced that this handset will really redefine my Smartphone experience. The innovation in this product speaks volumes about the commitment shown by the ASUS team. This is one smartphone I am eagerly looking forward to get hold of soon.

This post is inspired by #CantWait4Zenfone2.

Check the official link below:

http://www.asus.com/Phones/ZenFone_2_ZE551ML/

I agree to ensure (to the best of my abilities and circumstances) that this blog post will remain accessible in an un-altered state for a minimum of one year.

Lion

"You still haven't brought my lunch?"the lion roared.

"I tried my best O Lion, but I apologize for not having succeeded," the lioness replied softly, scared of the wrath of the lion. She was getting older, and thus the agility and swiftness of her youth were now lost in past.Hunting for prey turned out to be difficult.

"So what do you suggest? Shall I bring a new lioness?" There was wickedness in his eyes.

The Lioness didn't want to let go of her love. She walked out of the cave, hoping to get lucky with a prey this time.



This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - L.

Koel

"We can't afford it now."

"It's not an 'it' for God's sake. It's our child, yours and mine."

"I know dear, but it's tough to raise a kid in difficult times like these. You do know that we are not ready yet, right?"

The female Koel's voice choked, "When will we be ready? You say this every damn time."

"I don't know. I really don't know," her partner sighed, and flew away.

Yet again she had to abandon her baby, hoping that the nest where she would lay egg belonged to a better mother than she could ever be.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - K.

Redefined

(Image Source: http://www.exaktime.com)

when words cease to exist

in the corners of my mind

I opt for flimsy labels

to row on waves unkind

hungry is my soul

trapped in this blind

a tense moment passes

and poetry is redefined

This Poem is shared with Three Word Wednesday - Flimsy, Hungry, Tense.

Jackal

He roamed for days, but couldn't find any trace of food. The famine had turned out to be a disaster. The animals had fled in search of a better place. Poor Jackal's injury didn't permit him to leave immediately.

The Jackal finally came across a bunch of animals carrying edibles. He felt relieved.

"Friends, I am hungry. Can you share some food with me please?"

The animals looked at him in disgust, "Ah, Mr. Cunning. We don't serve villains."

"But I have never hurt anyone."

"Doesn't matter. You are considered to be cunning."

Ah, stereotyping never helps the society.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - J.

Iguana

While the other members of her clan were green, she was born with a unique shade of indigo.

News spread across the jungle. Iguanas from different parts of the forest came to pay the baby a visit. They brought gifts such as blades of grass, twigs and small fruits.

"Could she be a messiah?" they all bowed in front of her.

They worshipped one female Iguana. Wouldn't it be better if all female members of the society are respected in the same fashion, not due to their colours, but because they hold the key to a progressive Iguana world?


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - I.

Hummingbird

A Hummingbird was resting on sheer space, when a Sparrow chirped nearby.

"Hi Hummingbird, how are you?"

"I am good Sparrow. What about you?"

"I am fine my friend, but I have a question."

"Sure."

The Sparrow let out his doubt, "Life is about moving ahead. However, I often find you flying backwards. Why do you do that?"

The Hummingbird replied smilingly, "Sometimes we have to go back to learn how to move forward, to not make the same mistakes again, in present and future. Going back doesn't slow you down. Instead, it makes you stronger, wiser and better."


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - H.

Goat

The Goat was brimming with happiness. When confronted by his fellow jungle mates, he replied proudly, "Guys, I know you wouldn't believe it, but yes it's true. You can even visit the city and check it out. I am the new fashion icon."

"What does that mean?" asked an old tortoise.

"Ah, you are so ignorant. Haven't you heard of the goatee? Men are emulating me."

The wise tortoise replied, "Son, people who appear to like you now, could stab you later. It's a selfish world. Today you may be their goatee, but tomorrow you might be their mutton."


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - G.

Frog

The frogs leapt in joy, jumping on paper boats that sailed on little rivulets of rain water.

"Rain is beautiful." The young frogs were delighted due to the incessant rain that flooded the village over the last few days. Dark clouds dominated the horizon at all hours.

Nearby, an old frog was breathing his last. The water had become too much to bear, and he realized that rain, which seemed so pleasant, could also prove fatal. He closed his eyes, unaware that a poor farmer in the surrounding was experiencing the same fate, grieving the damage of his crops.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - F.

Eagle

The jungle was supposed to be democratic, but who would teach that to the Eagle. The animals were scared of him. The Eagle preyed on rabbits and squirrels, and even the larger species, not even sparing their little children.

The Eagle became very proud and wanted to rule the universe. He thus challenged the sun. With it's sharp gaze, it promised to bring the sun under its control. However, his overconfidence and stupid pride lead to the burning of his eyes. The Eagle turned blind.

Now, the Eagle is held captive in the jungle, powerless. Evil never lasts long.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - E.

Rain In Hell

(Image Source: http://smitebuild.pl)

it rained flames on hell today

burning me, my skinless soul

as I ran to seek a shelter

I encountered a depressed ghoul

escape not you can

the rain is here to drench

you are dead, but the pain will sting

we suffer constantly in this trench

for lies that were forgotten

tears we took for granted

even the slightest of sins we now repent

death has afterlife well documented

the fire in the skies

mercy no longer a privilege

oh how I wished to return back to Earth

to erase the faults listed on my page

This Poem is shared with

• Poetry Jam - The Flame,
• Poets United - Poetry Pantry.

Donkey

I have no clue how the label came about, but as soon as I was old enough to sense the world around me, I realized whatever I do, I will be known as stupid.

I, and my folks, are thought of as fools for no reason. We are hardworking, carrying loads from one place to another, but do we ever get credit?

I love singing. Once I hummed a melody, and was beaten up by sticks. I fled.

I never sang again.

Our dreams are broken, and yet we live, for the world. Don't we deserve a little respect?


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - D.

Cat

He woke up that morning in disbelief. It was insane, and illogical. He purred and mewed, angry at the stupid actions that were being implemented in the society.

The Ministry of Cat had introduced a new rule. Fish would be banned in the state. Any cat or kitten, found eating a fish, or in possession of one, will be awarded strict punishment.

Why should the Ministry decide his diet? Weren't there other important issues that needed more attention than what one ate?

The cat had no answer. He smelt fish cooking in a nearby house, and walked away dejected.


This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - C.

Bat

There lived a bat who had a fear of heights, and mostly stayed on land. His parents were worried due to this abnormality. They consulted several doctors, but to no avail.

"Son, look at your friends and relatives. They all hang upside down from high tree branches in groups. That's how we are supposed to be," his Dad explained.

"But Dad, can they run as quickly as me on ground?" the poor bat reasoned.

"That doesn't matter. Bats are not supposed to run."

"Isn't it good that I am different?"

"No son. It's not. What will the society say?"

This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - B.

Ant

"Do they hate us mom?"

"Who son?"

"The giants who live outside our home. Why are they after us always? We never harm them."

His mother sighed. This was the moment to let her son know the truth. After all, how long could she hide from him?

She took a deep breath, and said, "They are humans son, the most powerful creature made by God."

The baby ant cried, "They captured my friends in a jar, smashed them with feet, and laughed about it. Why did God make them Mom? Why did God turn earth into a hell? Why?"



This 99 word fiction is shared with Blogging from A to Z April Challenge - A.