The Hidden Library of House Mormont

Short Story- Cashnado Strikes Batesville

BATESVILLE, ARKANSAS– The typically quiet town of Batesville was turned upside down yesterday afternoon when a whirlwind of cash erupted from the sky. The extraordinary event, lasting approximately ten minutes, has left residents both bewildered and overjoyed as they recount the day Main Street turned into a surreal treasure hunt.

"It was like a scene from a dream, or maybe a cheesy heist movie," exclaimed Angie Jackson, a local florist. "One minute I was arranging a bouquet, the next I'm knee-deep in hundred-dollar bills. It's the craziest thing that's ever happened in my 30 years in this town."

The phenomenon began around 2:30 pm, catching everyone completely off guard. Stunned onlookers described swirling green clouds descending upon the town square, unleashing a flurry of cash that danced in the breeze like confetti.

Children squealed with delight, their backpacks and pockets overflowing with newfound riches. Adults, initially hesitant, soon joined the frenzy, scooping up fistfuls of bills with a mix of laughter and disbelief echoing through the streets.

"We were sitting on the porch when the sky just...exploded with money!" recalled elderly resident Edith Simmons. "My grandson, bless his heart, ran around like a madman, shouting it was a miracle. I think, deep down, we all felt a little bit of that miracle too."

As news of the surreal event spread, the small town was flooded with curious onlookers from neighboring communities, further adding to the chaotic yet festive atmosphere.

The source of the money shower remains shrouded in mystery, fueling wild speculation among residents and the media now swarming Batesville. Police Chief John Hodges, though visibly amused by the unprecedented situation, admits they are baffled. "We've checked with local banks, searched for any reports of robberies or armored car mishaps- nothing. It's the most bizarre case I've encountered in my career."

Theories abound. Some whisper of a publicity stunt, while others suggest a malfunctioning ATM carried aloft by freak winds. The more romantically inclined townsfolk dream of an eccentric millionaire with a penchant for whimsical acts of generosity.

The total sum distributed is still being calculated but estimates easily reach into the hundreds of thousands. While initial concerns arose about the legality of keeping the windfall, police have clarified that no charges will be filed against finders.

"Look, it's a bit unorthodox," Mayor Jim Bob Jack explained, "But if the past day taught us anything, it's to expect the unexpected. It seems like we've been the recipients of a random act of kindness, or insanity, depending on your perspective. Let's focus on the positive and hope this windfall inspires some generosity within our own community."

Social media is ablaze with photos, videos, and firsthand accounts of the event, with #cashnado dominating trending topics worldwide. Batesville, once an obscure blip on the map, has become an overnight sensation.

News crews from national networks have descended upon the town, interviewing wide-eyed residents and capturing footage of the lingering bills still fluttering down alleyways. While the origin of the "Cashnado" may forever remain an enigma, the day it rained money will undoubtedly become a defining chapter in Batesville’s history- a tale destined to be told and retold for generations to come.

Newspaper Clippings Prompt 7
Word Count: 530