There might be stories of cursed objects. For instance, a mysterious doll that seems to move on its own and brings misfortune to those who possess it. These are often common in scary stories.
In some of these stories, there might be a so - called 'scary' forest creature. However, as the story unfolds, it's revealed that it's just a misidentified animal. For instance, a large shadow in the forest that was thought to be a menacing monster was actually a deer with an unusual antler shape. These stories play on the idea of initial fear that dissipates when the truth is known.
A story about a friendly ghost in an old house could be a 'scary not scary' story. The idea of a ghost is often scary, but if it's just a friendly spirit that helps the living, it's not so frightening. For example, it might warn the homeowners of a coming danger like a gas leak.
Here's another: 'I saw a face in the window. When I looked again, it was gone.' This short story quickly builds suspense. The sudden appearance and then disappearance of the face in the window is quite terrifying. It makes you wonder what it was, was it a ghost? A figment of the imagination? Or something more sinister?
One example could be the story of a babysitter who heard strange noises coming from the attic while the kids were asleep. Every time she went to check, there was nothing there, but as soon as she went back downstairs, the noises started again.
One story could be about a haunted house. A family moves in and at night, they hear strange noises. Every door they open leads to a darker and colder room. Eventually, they see a shadowy figure that disappears when they approach. It's a classic but effective short scary story.
In some of these stories, slaves faced brutal punishments. For instance, they might be whipped severely for the slightest disobedience. The whip marks would leave permanent scars on their bodies, both physically and mentally scarring them for life.
Ghosts are a typical scary element. They often appear suddenly, with a pale figure and a cold presence. Another example is the cursed objects. A doll that seems to have a life of its own and causes misfortune to those around it. Haunted places like cemeteries are also scary. The idea of the dead not resting in peace and strange apparitions floating around is quite frightening.
My reflection in the mirror smiled at me, but I wasn't smiling. It was a twisted, malevolent grin that made my blood run cold. I quickly looked away, but the image stayed in my mind, haunting me.
Well, there might be a story of a cursed object. For instance, a necklace that brings misfortune to whoever wears it. The wearer starts having nightmares and seeing apparitions, all within the short span of five minutes. It's a classic in 'scary 5 minute stories' as it creates a sense of dread quickly.
One example could be a story about a haunted doll. In the short story, a girl finds an old doll in the attic. Every night, she hears strange noises coming from it, and when she wakes up, the doll has moved to different places in her room. It gives a feeling of unease and fear.