Villages on the country’s border were on a high security alert. One could see window panes and skylights covered with a black cloth or paper, to prevent light from passing through in the night. Blackouts were ordained, to mitigate the risk of enemy bombing. Television and internet were blocked to prevent give-away signals of a residential or commercial set-up. Nights had turned pretty boring for the residents.
An army colonel stopped in his tracks, while inspecting the village.
“Pull the scarecrow down. This could be giving out signals to the enemy.”
Inside the house, old Joe swallowed the cyanide capsules.
(100 words)

Another fascinating tale. You have a gift for creativity Reena.
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Glad you liked it. Thank you so much, Susan!
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I wonder if Joe thinks he is about to be caught. Good story Reena.
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It is the most probable reason for suicide.
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Maybe I am missing something Reena- is it that Joe thought they will be bombed soon and thats why he decided to end his life early?
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We often miss something in flash fiction, since these are slice of life stories – without a beginning or end :). Maybe the elaborate scarecrow is being used as a cover to hide some equipment… maybe Joe is a spy who knew he has been caught in the act.
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Ah that never struck me.
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Why scarecrow would give signal? Why old Joe consumed cyanide? Was he a spy?
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Appears to be so ….
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A sad story for such a bright photo, but to many fair lands are now being destroyed .
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Thanks, Michael! Many fake social media profiles have attractive pics.
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