The massive missile defence cannon lit up red and orange in the night sky.

‘Citizens, once again we are safe. Russia, Iran, Korea – no one can threaten our great city!’ The crowd cheered.

Klaus slipped away as the mayor continued his rabble-rousing speech. Politicians and their half-truths, he thought.

The defence system he had developed worked if the incoming missile was intercontinental. It could do nothing against a short-range, low-flying projectile.

He got into his car and drove out of the city.

He crossed the Hudson and dialled the number in Baltimore. It was answered on the first ring.

‘Launch.’

Written as part of the Friday Fictioneers challenge hosted by Rochelle Wisoff-Fields (more details HERE). The idea is to write a short story of 100 words based on the photo prompt (above).

To read stories of 100 words based on this week’s prompt, visit HERE.