The thousand injuries of Fortunato I had borne as I best could, but when he ventured upon insult I vowed revenge. You, who so well know the nature of my soul, will not suppose, however, that gave utterance to a threat. At length I would be avenged; this was a point definitely, settled -- but the very definitiveness with which it was resolved precluded the idea of risk. I must not only punish but punish with impunity.

-Edgar Allen Poe

Runt lays his back against the corner of the butcher's shop, huddled underneath the overhang as thin driblets of rain splattered across the plaza of Van Gowen Way.

All things considered, this morning was perfect for begging.  The reality that the rain would likely keep people indoors, giving him fewer marks to beg from was entirely offset by other positive factors.  Firstly, the rain would also keep away other panhandlers, giving Runt an exclusive market, but more important, the cold and wet would make Runt about as pitiable as was possible, which was exactly what Runt was looking for.  It was perfect.  Not cold or wet enough to make things really miserable, but just enough to make it seem like he was.

Runt placed his cap out in front of him, a stained and moth-eaten thing that was far too large, and jingled a copper of his own into the rim.  It was enough to give the impression other people thought well enough to give him some money, but not enough to think Runt was doing just fine.

Suffice to say this was not the first time Runt has sat on a corner and begged for money.  Far from it.  In fact, Runt would guess he was probably one of the most gifted beggars in the whole of Craine.

Runt brought out his wood flute, licking his lips a touch before brining it up to play, though a glance down the street gives him enough pause to bring the instrument back down.  It was Deng.

Deng Learen was a man of little ability and less intelligence.  A true nothing, who seemed to have not an honest bone in his body and who got along in life only by taking what he could from those who couldn't or wouldn't resist.  Sometimes Runt would give the man a copper or two to leave him alone.  He almost always regretted it.

"What do you call this?"  Deng sneered at Runt, grabbing the single coin in the cap before Runt can react.  He holds the farthing up, displaying Runt his own money as he looks at the tarnished coin himself.  "I thought you were supposed to be good at making money, pipsqueak, but it seems like you're no better than the rest of us.  This isn't even enough for my effort of coming down here."  Deng flips the coin in his hand and despite his words he places the thing in his pocket rather than give it back.  With an indecent leer, he places his hands on his hips and looks down upon the youth.

"You know what?  I think you may be losing your touch.  People don't feel sorry enough for you any more."  Deng's lips twist and curl into a wretched smile.  "Tell you what pipsqueak, I'll trade you a favor.  I need ten more of those by this afternoon.  If you can do it, great.  If not, I'll help out and make you so desperate looking that no one will be able to ignore you... I think two broken legs should do it.  You'll be a real moneymaker then."

Deng pauses his speech, sizing Runt up as he glares downward.

OOC:  It is 0800 on the 30th of October, 2005.  Welcome to the game and the thread!  It is 0800 on the 30th of October.  If it isn't clear, Deng is extorting you.  He has already taken a farthing (which has not been deducted from your starting wealth) and is demanding 10 more by this afternoon.  If you fail, he is threatening to break your legs to make you better at begging.  Feel free to react in any way you feel is appropriate.  You have all of your items within reach, including your broom handle which is just beside you, though the majority of your money (you only have 3 more farthings tucked away on your person) is hidden around the city in places only you know.  Good luck!

Runt felt confident about the day.  Yes, it was raining some, and what was coming down was cold.  But it wasn’t heavy and he wasn’t completely soaked through yet.  But it was enough to keep most of the other beggars in, at least until they had recovered from too much drink the night before.  That was one of the advantages he had over most, he got started earlier in morning.  Still, the rain wasn’t fun to be out in and if the pickings weren't good here, he’d probably head over to the New Jerusalem Gate and try things there.  The guards there might let him dry off and warm himself by their fire.

He was set up and ready to start playing when he spotted Deng headed his way.  It looked like Deng wanted something and it probably wouldn’t be good for him.  He gave brief thought to running, it would be easy to get away.  He was faster than most and knew more ways around Craine than anyone that he knew.  But he would have to leave most of his things behind and Deng would catch him sooner or later.

He started to greet the wanna be thug but had barely opened his mouth when Deng snatched the farthing and made his demands.  His gut knotted up, while he didn’t think that Deng would actually break his legs he was more than capable of severely beating him and just might would do that if he didn’t get what he wanted.  Of course Runt knew that he could always go and dig up one of his stashes, but he didn’t want to do that except as a last resort.  He would need all that and a lot more than he had hidden to make it through the winter.  Runt glanced around the plaza but didn’t spot anyone who might help.  Maybe he could talk Deng down.

“Hey Deng, that be an awful lot of coin.  You knows I ain’t gettin’ that much in a day for me.  That be more like two or three days work.  Most of it go to taxes an rent an my business fee.  That be three in four coin I get every day.  Ten for you don't leave nothing for me.”

He watches Deng carefully, looking for the clue to tell him what he might need to do.




OOC
Going for a Fast Talk here first
22:32, Today: Runt rolled 12 using 3d6 ((3,6,3)).  Just might have made it.

Body Language second, not a chance unless Deng really telegraphs his intentions.
22:33, Today: Runt rolled 12 using 3d6 ((1,6,5)).

Dodge roll if necessary, All Out Defense, Increased Defense on Dodge
22:33, Today: Runt rolled 13 using 3d6 ((5,5,3)).  Probably not successful.
This message was last edited by the player at 04:45, Wed 10 Mar 2021.

Runt starts to make his case of the sheer impossibility of the task at hand, though the argument does not seem to sway Deng.

"Losing your touch indeed."  The grotesque smile spreads across his face like a plague, his eyes lighting up in anticipation.

"Maybe we should just get on with it then, give you a little more chance so you can make ends meet..."

Ka-fucking-boom!

The percussion wave sweeps over Runt, sucking the breath from his chest as his ribs thrum like a struck timpani.  The cries of several women issue from left and right.

"What the fuck?"  Deng turns.  Over his shoulder, a thick grey and white cloud has erupted, highlighted orange on the bottom, which is centered on the small hill where Witten Asylum sits.  Runt pushes himself to his feet, grabbing up his cap and his broom handle and takes in what he can of the view.

It appears the whole third floor of the Witten building has been blasted from existence.  Where it had once thrust up from the center of the stone building, now there was a mere ring of jutting, broken stone and the horrific cloud which billowed upwards into the dreary, morning sky.

Runt had avoided the asylum, or even thinking on it whenever possible.  He knew of only one man who had been there, Kraaven Moorehead, who told a story of being forcibly interned in the horrific place after he had overheard something as to the grisly experiments taking place there.  Kraaven had only escaped after a month or more of imprisonment by shoulder-ramming his shit box and braving the near total darkness and putrid stench of the sewers below for hours on end.

The story was more than enough to encourage Runt to stay well clear.

But as the dusty cloud billowed up into the sky, Runt couldn't help but wonder what the hell was going on there.

Thunk!

A head-sized chunk of stone lands in the street and rolls to a stop a half-dozen yards behind Deng, who is still staring up at the half-demolished structure.

"Shit!"  Deng curses, quickly redrawing his attention to the stone landing behind him, then glancing around quickly as if expecting more hellish projectiles to land all around.

"This afternoon!"  Deng turns his head to Runt as he begins to jog away, an arm held up to shield himself.  "Right here at sundown, or we'll find make it so every one feels bad enough to leave you coin!"

All around him, the sickly greyish cloud begins to fall, brining the smell and taste of chalk and gravel...

OOC:  Sorry, fast talk didn't work for you.  Body language didn't tell you much, though there was no need for the defense due to the ensuing chaos.  The ball is officially in your court.  You have lots of options for taking care of Deng, who is not a power player by any stretch of the imagination, and you imagine that he is working quite on his own.  However, as an adult, he is quite obviously bigger than you and certainly capable of making good on his threats.

Runt was fairly certain that he couldn’t talk Deng out of his demands, but had hoped that he might get   the amount lower or get more time.  Deng’s response proved that to be an error.  He squeezed his eyes shut in anticipation of the first blow of the beating he was sure was coming.  He didn’t want a beating, they really hurt.  He wouldn’t try to tough it out, Deng liked it when his victims made noise.  He drew his legs up, making himself as small a target as possible awaiting that first blow.

It never came, instead he was rocked back against the wall by the explosion, much larger than the loudest thunder he had every experienced.  For a brief second he thought that had been Deng but he couldn’t hit like that.  He shot up on his feet, stuffing his cap on and grabbing up his broom stick.  His ears rang and hurt from the concussion.  He saw that Deng had turned and was staring at a quickly expanding cloud where the loony bin sat.  He’d rather deliver a message to the Mage’s Guild than go by that place.  A small rain of stone chips fell over the plaza and rattled off the building.  A large piece hit the street and rolled towards Deng, stopping short.  A little closer and my troubles would be over he thought.

“Yeah, sure Deng, sunset.  I be here,” he responded to the low level bruno exiting the area.  Most of Runt’s attention still focused on the sight of the ruined building.  He picked up his flute and cased it, then walked over to where the large chunk rested and examined it.

OOC:  Yeah, I figured that there just might be some negative modifiers on the Fast Talk, but at least they weren’t so bad as to provoke a bad reaction (well, not worse than it already was).  Still, there are several options open and Runt didn’t take any damage which I was honestly expecting so things are good.

Though Runt had been prepared for a more physical response to his attempt at a reasoned argument, he seems to be saved for the moment by whatever act of god had brought a hail of stones falling down from the asylum.  Before Runt knew it, Deng was hustling away, Runt's copper still tucked away in his pocket.

And I'm responsible for ten more.  Runt thought to himself.

But though the prospect of earning over two pennies in a single day hung over Runt like a shroud, he would not let fear of Deng control him... he had options.  And besides, there were much more interesting things to things to think about at the moment... like the massive stone which now lay in the street.

Runt moves forward tepidly and the cloud of dust and sand rains down around him, darkening his surrounds for a moment.  Runt is forced to raise an arm and lower his head as tiny pebbles dance off his shoulder and head, though the moment is short lived.  Runt coughs as the heaviest of the dust settles to the ground, leaving only a white and grey fog that seems to linger in the street.

Runt approaches the large stone, which is nearly a foot across with a flat face and jagged edges.  He nudges the thing with a foot.  It is most certainly quite heavy... heavy enough to have turned Deng into the sort invalid he was threatening to make Runt.  It doesn't seem to be anything special though, just limestone or basalt.

Feeling certain there is nothing off about the rock, Runt stoops down to investigate it further.  The thing is probably some twenty pounds, and seems just a chunk blasted out of some larger building material.

Runt looked over the piece of stone closely, and then up at what was left of the Witten Asylum.  Wow, this flew all the way from there he thought, estimating the distance.  He didn’t immediately notice anything special about it but figured he might could make a use of it so he started rolling, pushing, and pulling the fragment over to the wall of the butcher’s shop.  If nothing else he could stand or sit on it when he was here trying to make money, like a stage he saw real performers on sometimes.

Done with his labor, he looked back up at the hill.  A thought came to mind – Maybe there was some rich stuff just lying around up there now, blowed out the building.  Maybe ‘nough for him to sell to take care of Deng.  He wouldn’t have to go in the building.  Just outside, not even on the grounds, well maybe if he saw something really really good outside the building, but not going inside of course – never that.

His mind made up, he quickly gathered up his belongings and headed up the hill to the Asylum.  He needed to get there before anyone else had the same idea.  Besides, even if there wasn’t anything useful up there, he could always try performing at the nearby marketplace.

Runt makes an effort to roll the large stone over towards the overhang of the butcher's shop, though the awkward edges make it a tough job and eventually Runt stoops, picking up the large bit of rock with both hands and duck-walking it over to the shelter.

Though as he finishes the work, an idea strikes Runt.  Maybe... Just maybe the sudden explosion at the crazy place might prove to be a boon after all.  Even if it hadn't smashed Deng in the ear, there still might be all sorts of treasure just lying about in the grass outside...  It was enough of a draw to overcome his normal aversion of the place...  it was the sort of building that gave you the willies.

Runt approaches the building as the cloud of white and grey dust slowly sinks back to the earth below.  The two bottom floors emerge from the hill, stopping cleanly in jagged rock where its top floor has been blown clear off.  It stands like a decapitated old soldier, twenty feet of brick and stone overgrown in wrist thick vines that scrawl all the way up to the roof.

Runt approaches the the wrought iron fence surrounding the building.  Its some fifteen feet high and tipped with jagged points.  The one entrance through is a large, double swinging gate open on rusting hinges, which leads to a chipped stone and on to the massive doubled doors which serve as the only entrance to the asylum.  Normally, there's be a pair of guards standing at the gate, harassing anybody who wandered too close, though it seems in the commotion of the morning, that particular guard has lapsed.

Runt scours his eyes on either side of the path as he approaches.  Here the weeds and grass grow thick and high, though it is clear that much of the debris from the explosion have landed close, with two or three massive chunks of stone jutting up at angles from out of the weed.

Runt didn't want to get too close, though the wilds outside of the brick and stone building promised all sorts of possibilities... and those vines strangling the outer walls would be so easy to climb all the way to the top...

OOC:  You are standing at the front of the asylum, though you haven't gone through the gate yet.  Please let me know where you are searching (general area is fine) and roll vs. Search.  If you have something in particular you are looking for, go ahead and let me know and then roll vs. scrounging.  Only do one of the two though please.

As Runt made his way quickly towards the asylum he saw more debris that must have come from the building.  Some people were out in the streets, mostly looking up the hill with a few beginning to clean the debris up.  He heard several people exclaiming with loud voices the holes in their roofs.

Bet the carpenters guild’s gonna be busy for a while.  Maybe some second-story work gonna happen too.

When he got to the Asylum, he skidded to a halt and looked over the scene carefully before getting too close.  It looked like he was the first to get up here and more importantly, no guards around – though they might be inside helping but he doubted that.  They had probably run off in fear, or at least he hoped so.  For that matter, he didn’t see any of the crazies wandering around in the confusion or any staff trying to round them up – odd that.

Not immediately seeing anything threatening he he went up to the open gates and looked inside the grounds, closer than he had ever been.  He walked about fifty feet along the outside of the fence both to the left and right, looking closely as he went.  Making sure that no one was looking he checked to see if he could easily squeeze between the bars of the fence and then went back to the gates.

Gathering his courage he stepped through the gates and immediately into the brush at the left, pausing to see if anyone yelled at him.  Not hearing any outcry, he started working his way randomly through the yard working his way around the building clockwise seeing if he spotted anything interesting.

OOC:  No idea how many rolls you will need to cover the yard, but I’m sure that one will not cover it.  I guess Search is the most appropriate here since he is not looking for anything specific.

22:26, Today: Runt rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,3,3.  Search.

LOL, not even close.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:33, Fri 19 Mar 2021.

Before getting too close and comfortable with what was happening around the asylum, Runt decides to double check all his avenues of escaping and checks to see if he can squeeze between the bars in the fence.  Though the iron is closely spaced, Runt's thin form has enough room to squeeze between the bars without any discomfort, though the effort takes a few moments of jockeying himself sideways through, one leg at a time.

Still, it was a relief to know that if someone took up a stand at the gate that Runt could make his way out through other means.

Contented with the reduced possibility of being boxed in, Runt dives his way to the side of the path, working himself slowly through the outer yard of the building as he glances about for any hidden treasures that might be decorating the yard after the explosion.

It didn't take long for Runt to find his treasure either.  Most of what Runt saw was more of the stone and brick which had been blasted far and near spearing holes through the grass where it dropped, but about a quarter turn around the building Runt notices a flash of color lying atop a bit of brush.  He approaches the thing greedily, coming to within a few yards of the building walls, all sorts of possibilities racing through his mind and he was not disappointed with what he saw.

A doublet!

Adult sized too.  Though the thing was dirty and stained for sure it only had one large tear in the side and it was big enough to practically be another blanket for Runt if he ever had need of it.  He could probably sell it for scrap too if he got the chance.

A stiff breeze blows and Runt grabs the garment before it goes anywhere, though a flapping sound brings his attention to up above.  Some other cloth flutters on the edge of the roof (pants?), catching the wind like a legionnaire's pennant charging into a battle.

In another brief moment the pair of pants burst free from the building, floating for an instant before drifting down.

But with a start, Runt realizes there is something else falling, another stone has come clear of the edge of the roof, and is plummeting straight down on him!

OOC:  Make a roll vs. Dodge to avoid being hit by the dropping stone.  You may opt to do a diving dodge or use 1 FP for a feverish defense.

Feeling secure in the knowledge that he had multiple ways to get out if needed Runt began searching the grounds for anything interesting or useful and fairly quickly had his first find.  The doublet was a great start.  He could probably get a couple of farthings for it or if he found enough it would be great to keep for the winter.  He could curl up inside it and with his blanket he should stay warm even on the coldest night.  Something else of cloth flutters up above and catches his eyes as it begins to fall.  But right behind that, maybe loosened by it, a stone comes loose and plunges down right at him.

Adrenaline surges as he tries to throw himself away from the impact.

OOC:  Yes, he will burn the FP.

23:51, Today: Runt rolled 10 using 3d6 ((2,6,2)).

Runt moves quickly in an attempt to throw himself against the thick vines growing up the wall, but his actions simply aren't fast enough!  The rock, about the size of a half a brick, smacks his shoulder hard as he ducks out of the way before it plops onto the ground next to him.

Runt lurches slightly, though he manages to keep himself upright.  He grits his teeth against the pain, and checks his shoulder, which is already sporting an angry mark.  His quick inspection and few quick prods though confirm that nothing is broken, and Runt has had far worse injuries...  He'll just need to be more careful.

Runt turns to see the pair of pants floating down into the scrub several yards away.  If nothing else, it was a bit more material that he could probably sell...

OOC:  Sorry, I'm a stickler on the dice roller.  If you want to opt for a feverish dodge, or a diving dodge, you need to specify in your roll.  You can't roll vs. 'dodge' and then after the fact add a modifier - otherwise I can't differentiate between the people that were being honest and the ones that were just adding whatever modifiers were needed to pass the roll.  Luckily, there was only one damage done by the stone so it made very little difference overall.

Runt blinked back tears when the stone hit him hard.  It was far from the worst he had ever been hurt but it still hurt!  He picked up the offending piece of debris and threw it as far as he could back the way he had come.  STUPID ROCK!  He gathered up the trousers and continued looking for anything else he might come across, all the while keeping further back from the building.  After all more stuff might fall down on him.  But what if it wasn’t an accident?  Maybe some crazed starving cannibal had gotten free and was trying for an easy meal.  He moved even further from the building keeping his eyes open, just in case.

OOC:  No problem at all and completely understandable.  Though I must admit to having no idea how to do so in the dice roller.
Not sure if these rolls are necessary

Edit added rolls
16:33, Today: Runt rolled 13 using 3d6 ((6,4,3)). Throw
16:34, Today: Runt rolled 12 using 3d6 ((1,6,5)). Search

This message was last edited by the player at 21:34, Wed 24 Mar 2021.

Runt picks up the stone and hurls it back up against the building where it clatters against the wall and spins off in another direction.  It hadn't really accomplished anything apart from making Runt feel better... now at least that rock knew who was boss.

Runt walks over to where the pair of pants fell, finding them fairly quickly on top of the brush.  These too were filthy, though they seemed to be whole.  A good washing would likely make them as good a pair of pants as Runt had ever owned!  Only they were about two or three times his size, making them more of a potential sale than anything else.  Runt ties the pair of pants around his waist like a belt, letting the excess hang down just past his knees.

Runt continues his way around the building methodically, though apart from general debris, there doesn't seem to be anything else to find.  He's nearly all the way around the asylum when he hears the voices coming from the front door.  Runt immediately ducks down, hiding in the scrub, and looking to see what sort of nefarious creatures were making their way out.

"Quickly."  The voice belongs to an older man who walks briskly in the lead of several others.  He has hair and beard that have nearly been sapped of all their grey to the color of snow on a cloudy day.  Despite his age, the man seems to have no lack of zeal.

"They needs to be seen by healers.  I don't think either of them is in danger of expiring soon, but they are both very weak."

Runt glances up from behind the roughage and sees another three or four people.  A muscular, darker skinned man was propping up a pale and emaciated figure who looked barely able to walk.  Another woman was behind them, her face covered with dirt or soot, her eyes scanning ahead and behind as she moved.  Then there were another two men, one nearly as old as the first, though nowhere near as sprightly.  His face and beard hung from him like a weight and his eyes were deadened and empty.  He too was supported by the last of them.  Another man, though Runt could not get a good look at him with the older man blocking him from view.

"And we need to call the guard."  The first man said, turning his head to the others.  "With Heraladus dead and everyone else fled, who knows what will happen to this place!"

OOC:  No problem, all I need in the "reason for roll" box is a description of all the modifiers you want.  So you can just write "feverish dodge" or "diving dodge" or "deceptive attack (-4 attack, -2 defend)".  Something like that so I can tell the roll matches your intentions in the post.  Alternatively, if you are worried about forgetting, you can describe whatever dice rolls you want in your post and I'm happy to roll for you.

Runt was a bit disappointed that he had found nothing more. Still, it hadn’t been a waste of time.  What he had found was worth a couple of farthings each or more, at least after he cleaned them up.

When he heard the voices coming from the front doors, he ducked down to hide, then slowly moved just enough to see if the cannibals were coming out to search for their next meal – him!  Instead it was a group obviously lead by the oldster in the front.  They must be there rescuing the two being mostly carried, especially since none of them looked to have any bags stuffed with loot.  They must be rich folk, what with talking about getting healers for the ones being rescued.  He stayed very still and quiet, not wanting to be spotted, though he did memorize the faces, it might be useful later to be able to recognize them.

At the mention of calling the guard he knew he had only a little more time to finish scrounging.  He waited until the group was well gone before going up to the open doors.  Might as well glance in, he had come this far and there might well be something just inside that would be worth grabbing.

OOC:  Got it.

Runt ducks down, well enough hidden in all of the scrub to see and hear what was going on without exposing himself to possible detection.  And Runt was sure it was worth it too.  For surely all of these people were rich beyond his wildest dreams talking about healers and whatnot.

Runt waited as the group made their way down the small path towards the front gates of Witten and only then did he push himself up slightly and weasel his way towards the front doors to peer inside.  If the guards were coming, he did not have much time!

The heavy oaken doors at the southern wall stand open, letting the diffuse light of the cloudy morning leak in to the small foyer, a room barely twenty feet square with meager and shabby furniture within.  Runt pushes his head around the corner of a door, unwilling at the moment to commit his whole body into the crazy house.  A small desk is pushed towards the back of the room with a storage locker just to the side.  Two torches sit, exhausted and smoky in brackets on the back wall of the room.  At either side, both on the right and left, are iron bars leading to hallways going on each direction, though the way leading right seems closed and barred while the way on the left is open...

OOC:  Roll vs. Perception.

Sticking his head barely in the door took some effort.  There probably weren't and cannibals right there.  After all, the people who had left did not seem to be running from anything so this was probably safe.  His immediate scan didn't turn up anything obvious, but the desk and storage locker just might have something.  And there was probably a stool or chair behind the desk he figured.  A chair he could sell for a bunch of money, but a stool he would keep!  He looked around again and listened carefully before he even thought of going any further.

OOC:  00:46, Today: Runt rolled 4 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,1,1.  perception - possible +2 if hearing.

Looks like the dice roller has taken pity on the waif.

Runt noses his way into the door, scanning the small room... wary of cannibals lurking behind the desk or hiding in the hallways just beyond his sight.

Though perhaps the cannibals weren't quite this close...

Runt steps a little further and his nose assails him as he steps into the building.  It is a thick smell of wet smoke, like burning socks or bad and overcooked meat.  Runt gags on the smell, though he manages to keep the reaction down, pressing all his focus on the surrounding... the promise of cannibal treasure balanced with the equal danger of being eaten.

It was not long before Runt's accute senses pay off.  Just behind the desk Runt notes a small knob peeking out below the bottom of the wood.  Making his way around to investigate, Runt discovers a small mace, simply sitting there, waiting for the taking.

This was amazing!

This was worth all of what Deng was asking, and maybe more!  The thing was massive for Runt, and awkwardly heavy at the end as he held it, though it was just fine to sell, and bulky enough at the end that he could simply thrust it down under the pair of breeches still wrapped around his body like an absurdly large belt.

Now this had been worth it.  What else could be here, just waiting to be taken?

OOC:  Nice roll on the perception.  Unfortunately, there isn't a whole lot more to find here apart from the small mace, but you do earn a hero point for the amazing roll.  As stated in the last post, there is an open door to your left, which looks like it leads into a cellblock of sorts.

Runt's disappointment at not finding any furniture - did they just stand all day? - vanished completely on finding the mace.  Though he would have to sell it before he met with Deng.  Even though it was worth a lot more than the thug wanted, Deng would probably use it to carry out his threat.

His search of the room hadn't turned up anything else of worth but there was that open door just beckoning.  On one hand, there might be more to find, but on the other hand the Guard could be here at any time.  If they found him here, especially with the mace, the best he could hope for would be losing it.  Most likely they take the mace and give him a good thrashing.

He quickly thought it over and decided that a quick look wouldn't hurt.  If he didn't spot anything he would leave with what he had.  If he did see something then he might explore some more.

OOC:  Runt would have been happy with just a stool, and now he really does want one (LOL).  The Hero Point is very helpful.  Now I can use one later in this Chapter for something you have wanted a player to do.  And I'll still have one left for an emergency.  ;-)

Now curious as to what other treasures the asylum could hold, Runt peers his head into the hallway to the left.

It takes a moment for the youth's eyes to adjust to the darkness, for there is no artificial light in the corridor.  Instead, the only light comes from the meager stuff spilling in from the front entrance, which still hangs open, and some dim and diffuse light which seems to come from windows that are tucked somewhere out of sight.

Slowly, Runt's eyes do adjust, and he is able to make out the scene ahead.  The right side of the corridor is a solid stone wall, with dark stains of mildew streaked across it.  The floor here and there is wet, whether simply water or something more nefarious is hard to tell in the meager light.  On the left side of the hall are cells, their whole front made of iron bars broken only by the lock and hinges of a portion of it that has been made into a door.

The first cell on the left is empty, left only with a small slab bed with a small trunk at its base and a wooden privy in the far corner.  A small square window, high off the ground and with iron bars of its own, shows little more than the dark grey of the clouds outside.

Runt creeps forward, his body on high alert, listening for anything that lurks or moves.

He's nearly halfway to the second cell before he realizes that it isn't empty.

An older woman, her hair so thin and pale it shows much of her scalp, is sleeping on her side with the top of her head facing Runt.  Her chest rises and falls rhythmically, and after a few moments, Runt realizes she must be asleep.

He creeps on...  creeping towards the corner of the next cell and peering in, Runt's heart nearly jumps into his throat!  The man in the cell is staring right at him!  Runt takes a hurried step backwards, ready to defend himself, though the man's eyes do not follow him.  Instead they stay fixed... unmoving, staring blankly end empty into an oblivion...

OOC:  Let me know how far you want to go.  The hallway goes on for 40 or so yards, and you have made your way about a third of the way down.  Towards the end, you can see the hallway bends off to the right, with the cells remaining on the outer wall of the asylum.

It was the man that did it, just staring off into nowhere, his nerve broke.  Runt retreated back the way he had come, pausing very briefly before heading into the entry hall to make sure it was still uninhabited.  He did the same at the front entrance before happily getting into the open.

OOC:  This all assumes that there is no one in the entry hall of course.  Once outside he will head straight for the gate and make sure that there is no one looking or heading his way.  He'll head to a nearby alleyway and wrap the mace up in the trousers before heading to somewhere to sell his finds.  I figure that with Photographic Memory he will have no problem knowing where to sell the clothes, but might need a Streetwise roll to figure out where to sell the mace.

19:14, Today: Runt rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,3,1.  Streetwise.

Runt couldn't bare to look into those cold and vacant eyes, eyes that looked without seeing, eyes that sucked in Runt's gaze like the sausages that hung in the butcher shop.  Runt shook himself out of the moment and ran.

He ran from the corridor and ran from the entryway.  He ran straight down the weeded path and out the gate.  By the time Runt stopped running nearly three blocks along the market, there was a stitch in his chest that seemed to creep up nearly all the way to his neck.  Runt leaned over, putting his hands on his knees as he devoured each breath, staring over his shoulder to make sure that the man... and his stare... hadn't followed him.

Soon enough Runt realizes that all is well.

Or at least, soon enough it will be.  Runt makes his way about the market, the light mace still sticking awkwardly out from a the pair of adult-sized pants wrapped around his waist.  What he needed was an arms merchant... one who wasn't too picky about where his purchases might have come from... Runt didn't think a mace would attract too much attention, but you could never be too careful, especially when keeping Deng from trying to hurt him was part of the deal.

Runt knew just the guy.

It was only a few minutes later, a block and a half or so when Runt found him.  Giuseppe was a man who seemed who seemed to not really have made up his mind about what he was.  He looked young, though with great wrinkles already crawling under his eyes and grey seeping its way through his hair.  He seemed to have a good deal of extra weight, though his features were pale and dour as if he were undernourished.  Most importantly of all Giuseppe smiled all the time, though Runt thought it was a sort of sinister look all together.  If anything, Giuseppe reminded Runt of a man-sized weasel, just without the snout.  Runt didn't trust Giuseppe, but he was predictable, and he'd do just about anything if there was coin in it for him.  He was just the man to buy some items that needed to be discarded with haste.

"Little man!"  Giuseppe greets Runt as he approaches, his beady eyes traveling over the mace, the belt-like pants, and the rest of Runt's belongings slung over his shoulder, taking in and itemizing every piece and parcel.  "What can I do for you?"

OOC:  Roll vs. Merchant, default to IQ-5.  If you wish to improve on this roll, feel free to roll an appropriate social skill, or reaction in addition to that.

Runt shivered a bit as he made his way around the market.  Those eyes were just creepy.  He would remember that stare into nothing for a long time.  He got his breathing under control as he approached the shop he was looking for.

"Hey Giuseppe, got something might be up your alley" he said, making sure no one was looking before pulling the mace out and putting it on the counter.  "I thought of you first.  I thinks I deserve two dozen and six for it" he finished confidently.

OOC - I'm going to let you make the rolls on this.  No Merchant so that would be a base 5 - possible bonuses might include Pitiable (+3 reaction) and Attractive (cute) (+1 reaction), plus maybe Reputation (small group – thieves guild – 10 or less)  (+2) if that roll is successful.  Though Runt fully expects to be cheated on this.


Edit - just thought of this but it probably applies in this type of situation - Social Stigma (minor) (-2 reaction)
This message was last edited by the player at 01:36, Thu 15 Apr 2021.

"Up my alley?"  Giuseppe laughs when Runt displays the small mace.  "You see any other weapons around?  I mean, I suppose I can sell it, but this is practically a specialty item."

He takes the mace over from Runt and turns the thing over, finding several minute flaws that Runt chalks up to normal wear and tear.  "The binding needs to be redone...  there's nicks there and there... two dozen and six?"  Giuseppe finally laughs.  "No, no, no.  I couldn't even sell it for that.  I'll tell you what though kid.  Since you're one of my best suppliers I'll give you as much as I can - I'm talking the most I can possibly expect out of it.  Not a single bit of profit in it for me...  Let's say seventeen.  That's as good as I can do."

Giuseppe quirks an eyebrow, half offering the mace back to Runt as he waits for his answer.

OOC:  Just so you know, you shouldn't expect any better offer today for the mace.  I don't normally allow multiple rolls for merchant per adventure, as any reasonable person would go and get a few offers before making a decision.  Just because we're roleplaying it as your first idea, doesn't change how my system works.  Of course, you are welcome to turn Giuseppe's offer down.

Runt was fairly certain that the weapons dealer was not being completely honest or at least not offering as much as he would have to an adult.  Still, it's not like there was much choice.  This was pretty much the only place he could quickly sell something like the mace and he needed the coin today.  He counted on his fingers making sure the amount was what he thought it was.  Almost half of what he needed to not dig up any of his stash.

"Seventeen is ten and seven, right?  Then it be a deal."

He carefully counted the coins into two piles, one of ten and the other of seven, putting each pile in a separate bag and then secreting those inside his clothing.

"Thanks, Giuseppe.  Got to go now.  I needs to make a bunch more coin for sundown."

He turned and headed out of the shop, next stop the clothes seller he sold to on occasion.  Maybe he could get a few more coins there.

Runt makes his way through the shops, finding the seamstress Marta, who he sometimes manages to get some free clothes from when the woman is feeling generous.  It seems like today is one of those days, for Marta doesn't even give Runt an awkward look as he passes over the stained and rancid clothing.

"Sure, I can use these."  Marta smiles at Runt as she looks over the clothing.  "Patches, most like."  She turns the things over.  "Or else make something new your size out of 'em.  Here."

she hands Runt four farthings, more than he had honestly expected for the clothes, but everything at this point was simply gravy.

"If you find anything else like these, be sure to bring them by."  Marta nods at Runt as she gestures to the clothes, before tossing them in a wicker basket at her feet.

OOC:  I'm not sure if there's a little bit of confusion, but Deng asked you for 10 farthings, so you've actually already earned more than he asked with the sale of the small mace.  Marta gave you another 4, a dream price for clothes that were worn and stained as they were.

Runt was shocked.  The most he'd hoped to get was three farthings and there wasn't much chance of that even from Marta.  Two was more likely and one wouldn't have been a shock.  But four farthings, that was just unbelievable.

"Marta, that just be ... thanks.  I will be back when I gots some more money.  Gonna need some warm stuff for the winter.  It be starting to get colder.  Gonna rustle you up some customers now."

He stepped outside the door way and began to play, trying to draw passersby to Marta's establishment.

OOC - Runt will spend time to play several tunes on the flute, interjecting loudly between the tunes how great a seamstress Marta is and how fair her prices are.  I figure that he has seen plenty of vendors and barkers doing similar (and he's probably done some himself) and will use similar language that seemed to work for them.

No confusion as to how much he needs to earn.  Just that he is in his own way extremely honest.  Every day he pays 3/4 of what he earns to the Guard/Beggar Queen/Thieves Guild (1/4 each) and gets to keep 1/4 for himself.  Since Deng the Thug is extorting 10, he has to get 10 each for the others.  At least that's how his mind has it worked out.

16:58, Today: Runt rolled 8 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,3,2.  Flute - add in the Single Minded, he is very determined.

Might even get some coin tossed his way here, LOL.

Overjoyed with the amount of coin he had earned for the doublet and trousers, Runt thanks Marta heartily and immediately strikes up a rousing performance, interspersed with overt hawking of Marta's goods and services.

Within the span of a few songs, Runt has gathered a handful of people outside, some of whom seem to have simply taken a moment to listen to the music, while one or two appear to have taken up on Runt's cues to shop from Marta's wares.  Runt repays her knowing smile with a wink of his own before starting up another tune on his flute.

Runt finishes up his little concert some time later when his audience seems to stagnate, thanking and waving to Marta again before he strolls on.  It had been rather successful, gaining Marta a few customers, and though it seemed that most of the audience were poor and unworking, Runt had even managed to get another copper from one of his more generous viewers.

For now, Runt at least had enough coin in his pocket to pay of Deng's demands, though perhaps not enough to give his many patrons their cuts...  Runt ponders the situation as his stomach gurgles in the first stages of blossoming hunger.

OOC:  It's 1100 on the 30th of October.  Deng has asked for his money by sundown, which is around 1800.  That is also the same time these particular streets can start getting very rough.  You have lots of options from this point, so I'll put the ball in your court.  You can buy lunch for a copper, or else get it with a panhandling roll, or forego it entirely and simply eat the fatigue point that comes with a missed meal.  You can continue to keep trying to earn extra coin through panhandling/music or else try and find some other scheme to get some extra cash.  Lastly, we can simply fast forward to paying off Deng so you can get him off your back.  Or anything else you can think of.  Let me know how you want to proceed.

Runt left feeling good, not only had he added another five farthings to his total, he'd gotten some customers for Marta.  He thought about where to try next.  He could try the caravan grounds outside the walls or maybe the docks.  If a new ship had come in he always did pretty well.  But his stomach started rumbling, reminding him that the bit of stale bread he'd eaten for breakfast had been a long time ago.  Probably his best bet to make some money and get fed was one of the city gates.  The guards would sometimes let him have the scraps from their meals and newcomers to the city were often a bit free with their coin.  He might even get a job guiding them around town, good money in that.  The Merchant's Gate was probably the best bet at the moment.  The caravan grounds were outside it and the main street lead straight to the largest market square in the city.  Even on a drizzly day like today, there should be some good traffic.

OOC - He'll head towards that gate, and try there for a couple of hours.  If that doesn't produce a lot of results, then he can head elsewhere.  On the way he will keep an eye out for anything interesting loose in the streets, maybe a dropped coin or two or something else useful.  Possibly even a dead body he could strip in an alleyway ;-)

I'll let you make whatever rolls you think are necessary, faster that way.  And he is formulating a plan to finally deal with Deng which might get a little messy.

Runt makes his way to the gates, knowing that at this time of year, the fall harvests were over and farmers would likely be selling their crop en masse.  The rain would put people off, sure, but it was still a good chance for him to manage some food and perhaps a few more coin before he had to make a decision about Deng.  He whistled to himself, walking along and tapping out a slow rhythm with his broken broomstick.

Runt find some success at the gates, a few coins from some of the more generous passersby, though Runt finds that he has to pay for his lunch with some of his earnings, and at one point has to bribe one of the gate guards to keep from being hassled.  As the time wears on, Runt seems to get less and less success, despite his efforts to entertain and wheedle his best.  He surmises that perhaps the weather has soured peoples moods in addition to keeping many of them away from the market.  Still, Runt comes out of the situation ahead a pair of coppers and with his spirits none reduced.  On the whole, the day had been very productive, though perhaps not quite to Deng's impossible expectations.

OOC:  It is 1400.  2 farthings have been added to your character sheet.

Runt counted and calculated, he had two dozen coins left out of two dozen and four that he had earned.  He needed another four for Deng and more for the others.  It wasn't going to be easy but there was still time left.  So down to the docks it was, at least for a while.

OOC - Not much of a chance of him earning enough to pay off everyone without having to go dig up some of his savings but he would try anyway.  He'll spend a couple hours at the docks and that should still leave him plenty of transit time to get back to Van Gowen Plaza an hour before the 18:00 deadline.  Again, for the sake of expediency I'm requesting that you make any necessary rolls for this.

Feeling that there isn't much left to fish in the pool of the city gates, Runt makes his way to the docks, where he can often earn a tidy sum, not normally from the pier workers themselves, but often from the travelers or merchants that navigated the Conn up past New Jerusalem and down into Keyhole Bay.

In addition to funds, Runt often found that the sailors had excellent stories, the sort that pitted man against nature, fraught with danger and foul language, stories that set Runt's jaw agape as he mentally repeated the words, memorizing them to twist or turn them into a melodic poem or song.  It was the sort of place that could hold jewels beyond simple coin... at least, some days.

Perhaps not today though.

It becomes quite clear as Runt arrives that the dock workers are the only ones staying for any length of time out in the open.  The rain, light as it is, seems to harry on anyone else from the area, without giving Runt the slightest bit of attention or pity.  Runt knew all too well already that the workers were poor marks for panhandling, underpaid and overworked as they were, though Runt felt obligated to at least try.  It seemed the foul weather only sharpened the edge of their agitation, one even threatened Runt, though the youth knew well enough that if he simply rerouted his efforts he could keep working the area as needed.

Still, all Runts efforts seem to come to naught, and a few hours in rain begins to start in earnest making it all too clear that his ambitions of earning extra coin are simply not meant to be.

The clouds obscure the skies in all directions, and though Runt knows there should be some time yet before dusk, darkness seems to be already sinking in to the air around him.  Though he has not earned enough for Deng and everyone else he knows he needs to pay off, Runt feels his time may have run short.

OOC:  It is 1630 on the 30th of October.  While the sun is still aloft somewhere in the sky, the heavy clouds and rainfall have caused the light to start ebbing early as the sunlight is forced to go through the layers at more and more of an angle.  Unfortunately, you didn't earn any extra cash, in large part due to the weather.

Runt's spirits began to flag as time went on.  What should have been a good day was ending in disappointment.  There was no way he could earn enough so he would have to dip into his stash.  He headed back towards his meeting with Deng, making several stops along the way.

OOC - Runt is heading back to the Square.  He'll have to stop and dig up one of his stashes of coin (10 farthings).  That will take care of Deng.  He will scratch a cross on each of the ones for Deng.  Another stop will be at the church where he drops off his "rent" money (7 farthings) for the Beggar Queen (behind the statue of St. Martin) as usual.  Another stop will be at the stable he often sleeps at.  There he will drop off practically all his belonging so he doesn't lose anything to Deng.  He'll be wearing his shirt, trousers, and cap, and carrying only his broomstick and four bags with coins in them - 10 for Deng, 7 for the guards, 7 for the thieves, and 3 for him.  Once at the Square he'll wait for Deng, making sure he has at least two avenues of escape when Deng gets there.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:46, Wed 12 May 2021.

Runt knows that there is little else he can expect this afternoon if he has tapped out the merchants at the city gates as well as the dock workers.  The latter had proved to be something of a disappointment, though Runt could hardly blame them for wanting to get out of the open air, dreary and wet as the day was.  He resigned himself to digging up one of his stashes.  The day had represented an odd duality.  It was the most he had ever made in a day, what with the sale of the mace to bolster it up, but because he was giving so much to Deng, it meant that he owed that much more of his cut to everyone else.

Runt makes his first stop to pay a percentage near the statue of St. Martin, where the wizened old woman, dubbed the "Beggar Queen", organized and shepherded the working poor.  She seems quite surprised by the 7 farthings that Runt shells over, though she says nothing, letting Runt walk on into the dwindling daylight.

Runt sheds all his belongings too.  He wonders if Deng would think to rob him after extorting him for such high sums, though whatever the answer to that question, Runt knows that the possibility is simply not worth the risk.

When Runt returns to the streets, all he is carrying is his broken broomstick and four small cloth bags with money inside, 10 for Deng and three others for various others he needs to pay.

The skies still seem to hang in a semi-permanent half light as Runt makes his way back to Van-Gowen Way, back to the place where Deng had accosted him this morning.  He thought he was ready, though he wasn't sure exactly for what.

As Runt approaches, he notices that Deng is already there, resting with his back against one of the stores.  He notices Runt almost immediately, tipping himself forward to a sort of bear crawl before he pushes himself to a stand and hurries towards Runt, his steps hobbled slightly as if his foot is asleep after a long sit.

"And late too!"  Deng grunts before he is within even a dozen steps.  "You better have what I need pipsqueak, cause I'm already madder than hell!"

OOC:  It's 1730 on the 30th of October.  One of your two hero points has been spent on serendipity.

"Ain't late Deng.  It still not be six bells past noon," Runt stated flatly.  "I got the ten farthings that you be robbing from me," he continued, not shouting but definitely projecting his voice out where even those not nearby could hear.  He reached into his trousers and pulled out the bag of coin for Deng, tossing it onto the ground between them.  "There it be.  And Deng, dis be the last time.  You ain't gonna rob me no more," he finishes, placing his hands on his hips, standing defiantly.

Deng had been walking with a purpose, his eyes set upon Runt with a hate that the child had not earned.  But as Runt throws the small bag of coin in the street between himself and Deng, the other stops in confusion for a moment, his eyes traveling down to the sack and back to Runt's eyes before he truly falls upon the coin in earnest.

There is a moment while Deng is tearing open the sack and pouring the coin upon the street, counting each copper with a feverish haste, where Runt can take in the scene unmolested.  Deng looks like a man who has been set upon by thugs.  One eye is swollen and he seems to have fresh bruises painted upon his face.  Runt would almost be sympathetic if it weren't for him passing along whatever malevolence had been visited upon him.

Runt had been speaking loudly, and it seems a few passersby in the square are taking some notice, most carry on their way, though an older girl, maybe fifteen, with a somewhat tattered and dirty look about her stops to take in the scene from a stone's throw away.

As Deng scrapes his pile of coin together, Runt can see Deng's eyes darting madly from the coin in his hands to Runt, his mind working avidly behind those eyes...

And then any trace of sympathy Runt still held was washed away in a single sentence.

"This ain't all of it."  Deng is still not looking Runt square in the face.  He kneels, gripping the coin in his hands, his voice quiet in comparison to Runt's intentional projection.  It's plenty loud enough for Runt to hear however, and he grits his teeth and clutches his broomstick even as he prepares for the rest of the comment.

"You musta misheard me."  Deng continues, his swollen eyes still scattershot and unfocused.  "I said twenty... You're ten short pipsqueak."

OOC:  You are about six yards from where Deng is kneeling, and the girl who has stopped to look is maybe ten or twenty yards to the side of you.  You have your broomstick in your hand and the other bags of money are all stashed away in your pants (not outwardly visible).

It came to Runt in a flash, Deng must owe someone a bunch, probably lost some big bet.  Still, that changed nothing.  This trouble with the thug had to be finished tonight.

"That be a lie Deng and you knows it.  Sides, ain't got no more to give you.  Money I gots left goes to the Businessman's Association and the Guards.  You tries to take that and they gonna get real upset with you," Runt stated levelly.  "Guards just hang you or maybe make you a slave.  Businessmans probably do worse.  Break all your bones or take you for a boat ride with a lot of rope an some big rocks!.  So you better jus turn back and go try an scrape up the rest of the money somewhere else.  You ain't getting it from me."

Runt was fairly confident that when Deng made a move, he could avoid it, but still kept a close eye on the thug to be ready.

OOC - I wonder if that's enough to get Deng to blindly attack or if I need to say more.  Guess I'll find out soon enough. :-)

Every parent has known the moment where a child has stood in front of them and brazenly, with no comprehension of consequence or the bigger picture, told them 'no'.

It is not something that Deng is prepared for.

Runt's threats seem to wash over the man's wide eyed expression as he stuffs the copper in his pocket.  He doesn't seem to quite comprehend what Runt is saying, or else perhaps, he has weighed the consequences of Runt's friends and found them inferior to those of his own enemies...  Either way, Deng is back on his feet in a moment, his fists clenched and his eyes wild as he approaches Runt.

"Oh, don't worry about the businessmen."  Deng's words drip acid, louder than before, though he is still not projecting like Runt had.  "I know them real good.  They won't mind it none if the money comes from me insteada you.  'Sides"  He offers, one pointed side of his mouth creeping upwards in a maniacal grin.  "'Swat you owe me pipsqueak.  If you can't pay what you owe than I'll just make it so you can earn better...  Like we talked about."

Deng takes a few steps forward, his fists clenched and his mouth clenched shut.

A stone's throw to the side, the girl takes a few steps forward, unnoticed by Deng.

OOC:  Deng is now at range 3.  He is unarmed, but quite a lot bigger than you.  You have your broomstick in your right hand.

“Deng, your mama must’ave dropped you on your head a bunch when you was a baby cause I don’t think nobody is that stupid natural.  You takes other people’s money from me to pay off who you lost money to and they gonna want you to pay that money too plus they probably kill you in a bad way.  That not be bad for me cause then I won’t have to listen to your stupid voice whining all the time.  Maybe they sell you to the muslims who cut everything off ‘tween your legs.  Won’t make much difference to the ladies.  I hear the girls on the street laugh ‘bout you when you is done,” Runt teased, his voice taking on a mocking tone.   “Sides, ‘for you break my legs you gots to catch me and I knows you be too slow and clumsy to do that.”

As Deng moves forwards, Runt moves back to keep six yards between themselves.

OOC – Runt is prepared for Deng to charge him and is ready to go fully defensive or break and run depending on the circumstances.

"You ungrateful little shit!"  Deng spits as charges forward, both hands extended in an effort to push Runt to the ground.

Runt skitters backwards, his broomstick still gripped like walking stick in his right hand, barely managing to duck out to the side as Deng rushes past him.  Runt keeps moving back to gain distance, but Deng is already turning to face him again, his body still moving in a jaunty, overworked fashion.

"You don't want to pay me what you owe then I'll take it from you pipsqueak!"  Deng's eyes are wild, burning with rage.  His fists are still tightly clenched, poised to lash out in any direction.

OOC:  You are now at range 1 from Deng.  You are facing him, though he is still turned slightly away from you (you're looking at a side hex as he turns).  If you want to run, note that you only move at half speed if you are going backwards.  Otherwise, you have to take 3 movement points to turn away (showing your back) before you start moving.  You can also try and run through Deng, though that will require an evade and a Dex contest.  You can also try any other option you can think of, including fighting Deng.  Your broomstick is ready in a 1-hand grip.

Deng had moved a bit faster than he had expected.  It looked like the thug was finally enraged and not really thinking.  No matter what, it was time to beat feet out of there and head towards the destination of his plan.  He turned slightly and sprinted past Deng.  He knew that he should probably keep his mouth shut but couldn't resist another dig as he went past.  "Deng got a little ding!"

OOC - If I understand your description correctly Runt should be able to get past Deng where Deng would be required to turn completely around to give chase.  Note - Runt is not going through Deng's hex but past it to Deng's side.  Runt will make a one face turn and then straight ahead for five hexes, which should put them six hexes apart.

Runt darts ahead as he hurls his insult, just to the side of Deng, with the intent of missing the man entirely as he skitters freely away...  Unfortunately it seems, his movements are not quite as fast as he had really hoped.

"You motherfucker!"  Deng screams, stepping into Runt even as he kicks in his burst of speed.  Deng's hands thrust out, seeking to knock Runt off of his feet.

Runt ducks to the side swiveling his body to avoid the push all together.  Somehow, miraculously, his body spins with the force of the shove, turning even as his feet continue to run forward, onward and away from the thuggish hobo.

"Damnit!"  Deng shrieks from a step behind as Runt regains his balance in full, never losing a step even as he continues to run.  Though Runt realizes the situation was too close for comfort, at least now he's far enough away and hopefully increasing the gap.

"Pick on someone your own size!"  A gravelly but higher pitched voice sounds out from Runt's side.  Even as he continues to run, Runt swivels his head and sees the girl stepping ever closer, her face screwed up in a look of rage.

"Mind your own business, bitch!  Or you'll get it just as bad!"  Deng shouts from behind Runt, though the child does not look to see how closely he is being followed.

OOC:  That's a lot of dialogue for one second, but assume it's somewhere around that.  You are not at range 6 as you assumed, though you did manage to dodge Deng's shove and keep running while he seems to be struggling to keep up.  The girl is now about range 12 and seems to be focused in Deng's direction.

Deng had almost gotten him but hadn't been fast enough.  He was clear enough now and knew that he could keep ahead of the thug.  But with the girl stepping in and getting involved that changed things completely.  Deng just might change his immediate target and go after her.  He took a couple more steps forward and spun around to face Deng.  "Here I be, come and get me!"  This was going to hurt.

This is what happens when the character's plan is not the same as the player's plan.  This will be interesting.

Not wanting to involve someone else into his fight, Runt takes a few further steps to gain some distance and turns around.  The extra distance was what he needed to be ready to meet whatever attack Deng had planned, or at least he thought it was.

Runt turns to see Deng a few steps behind, his face contorted in a mask of anger.  There is but a moment to try and step out of the way of his charge and Runt makes an attempt, but he is not quick enough.

Wham!

Runt wheels back as Deng's lower torso and hands smash into his head and shoulders.  His arms flail out like windmill blades trying desperately to regain his balance.

"Hey!"  The girl's voice shouts again, this time from closer, though all of Runt's attention is focused on not tumbling down to the cobbles below.

OOC:  Roll vs. DX.  If you fail you fall over.  You are currently at range 1 to Deng, and he is still facing you.  The girl is now at his left rear quarter, and closing.

Deng had closed on him a bit faster than he had thought and the impact knocked his small body back a few feet. But despite the slick cobbles, he had managed to stay on his feet.  He scooted back a bit more to try and avoid the thugs swinging fists.

"That all you got Deng?  You a wimp!"

OOC - 10:00, Today: Runt rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,3,3.  Dex - Perfect Balance +4.  No problem there.
And just to speed things along cause I'm sure Deng will be attacking with murderous intent now - 10:09, Today: Runt rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,3,3.  Dodge - All out Defense Inceased Dodge +2 and Retreat +3.  Should be safe unless Deng gets very lucky.

"I'll kill you pipsqueak!"  Deng shouts in retort.

His eyes bulge and his chin juts forward.  Runt barely has the moment to regain his balance before Deng's fists come flying.

The first punch comes in high, aiming for Runt's face.  Runt easily shifts himself back and the blow falls well short.  But Deng throws another haymaker, this one with his left hand, which Runt is not as prepared for.  Miraculously, Runt bobs just enough to the side, the fist missing his shoulder by a hair.

Getting a glimpse around Deng's side, Runt notes the girl is now full tilt, just a few paces behind Deng, and leaning forward as if to ram him straight in the back.

OOC:  You managed to evade both of Deng's attacks, though he seems adamant to punch every inch of you he can reach.  Let's do one more second, as I have a feeling things might shift significantly on the next turn.

Deng's one-two combo almost got him there, but missing by an inch was as good as missing by a mile.  "No wonder the Businessman Association don't use you for nothing.  You can't even beat up a little kid," he shouted mockingly.

OOC - Bad part is if Deng does manage to hit him, it's almost certainly going to be head, neck, or very upper torso/shoulders due to the height difference.  Going to do two rolls incase Deng goes with another Double Attack.  12:30, Today: Runt rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,3,1.  Dodge - All out Defense Increased Dodge +2 and Retreat +3.  12:30, Today: Runt rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,1,6.  Dodge - All out Defense Increased Dodge +2 and Retreat +3.  So far so good.  But with my luck Deng is going to roll a Crit. Success

"Raaaaaaaahhh!"

Just as Runt had hoped, Deng is now a an uncontrolled ball of fury, both fists flying in a hurricane of poorly controlled punches.

Deng's first shot sails well wide of hitting anything, and Runt does not even attempt to step farther out of the way.  The second shot comes much closer to connecting with Runt's jaw, though a well timed duck and a step backwards allows the small boy to keep just out of reach.

Long enough anyway for the girl to catch up...

"You're fucking dead you... Shit!"  Deng curses as the girl plows her shoulder into the small of his back, flailing his already wild arms in an attempt to keep his balance.

However, Deng proves to not be nearly as nimble as Runt.  The flailing mass of arms flies just wide of Runt, stumbling over his limp and falls squarely to the ground, barely managing to keep himself from smacking face first into the road.

For once, Runt now finds himself looking down on Deng as the other makes sluggish motions to try and get himself back to his feet...

OOC:  Deng is prone in the hex right in front of you.  The girl is also a hex away (standing in the same hex as Deng's feet).  Let's do two turns of combat action this time.

Runt looked at his tormentor face down on the cobbles.  For a brief second the thought of attacking him goes through his mind and is quickly dismissed.  He backs up another couple of yards, hopefully enough that Deng couldn't lunge and grab him.  He looked over at his unexpected rescuer and said, "Be a good time now to get away."

OOC - Runt's action are going to be heavily dependent on what the girl does.  If she takes off, then he will move well away and wait on Deng to notice him so that Runt can try and lead him off.  If you need them for the next two combat turns here are a couple of Dodge rolls -
22:57, Today: Runt rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,1,3.  Dodge - All out Defense Increased Dodge +2.
22:57, Today: Runt rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,3,2.  Dodge - All out Defense Increased Dodge +2.  Both looking good.

Runt thought briefly of pressing the attack now that he had the upper hand, though he puts the thought from his mind, instead attempting to press his rescuer to make a quick escape.

It seems the girl has no such thoughts however.

Deng has barely made it to his hands and knees when the girl is back at the attack, stepping into a  wild kick that catches Deng at the edge of the jaw.

"Bitch!"  Deng spits out a wad of blood as he weaves his way to his feet, turning to face the girl now instead of Runt.  "Don't you ever learn?  Seems I've got more teaching to do!"

He throws a punch at the girl, which misses badly, and she returns with a quick knee upwards to his groin, though Deng somehow manages to backpedal away.

"Only teaching you're doing anymore Deng is how to eat with no teeth!"  The girls spits back, weaving her way around the side so that Deng's back is now fully turned to Runt.

OOC:  Since you didn't have any contingency for if the girl kept fighting, I had you take two do nothing actions, though you didn't need to use your dodges.  You still have your broomstick ready, and are standing at range 3.  The girl and Deng are in close combat.  Let's do two more seconds, unless you plan on evading, then just give me your whole plan.

Runt couldn't believe it.  Deng was down on the ground and he and the girl had a perfectly good chance to get completely away before the adult got back to his feet.  But no, she just had to keep attacking Deng.  Runt knew he could still easily vanish but he just couldn't leave the stupid girl to the likes of Deng. There really wasn't much he could do, but maybe he could trip the big man.

OOC - I have no real idea what to roll against, but what he is going to try is to poke the broomstick between Deng's legs down low and try to trip him.

OOC - oops, for got to do my roll
19:19, Today: Runt rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,3,5.  trip.  Seriously doubtful there

Runt runs back towards the fray and jabs his broomstick between Deng's legs, trying to twist and turn it to trip Deng up enough to get him back on the ground.  Though he manages to get the weapon where he wants it, he doesn't seem to quite get the leverage he needs to knock the man from his feet and Deng seems little perturbed by the attack.

Whack!

Deng's fist lands a blow across the girl's cheek, though she does little more than flinch as she presses in closer to Deng, gripping a hook under over his arm as she smashes her knee straight into the beggar's genitals.

"Dammit!"  Deng shouts as he twists his body to get away, throwing another wild punch that is foiled by the close range and the shuffling bodies.

OOC:  Deng and the girl are grappled and in close combat.  You are directly behind Deng and unfortunately, your sweep attack didn't get the effects you were looking for.  Let's do another two rounds of action.

Frustrated at being in a fight he shouldn't have to be in and at his lack of success in tripping Deng Runt tosses the broom stick aside and throws himself at Deng's leg, trying to grab on and interfere with the thug's movement.

OOC - Grapple I guess Targeted Leg -1 though I really don't think this should be applicable here (picture a little kid hanging onto a parents leg), Determined Attack (+4), and hold on using both arms and legs if successful.  If successful 1st round then bite the second round.  11:58, Today: Runt rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,2,1.  Determined Attack +4, Targeted Leg -1.
should have worked.  12:01, Today: Runt rolled 6 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,1,2.  bite - not sure of what modifiers.  Just maybe here, though probably makes him want to retch with the filth of Deng. ;-)

Not satisfied with his influence on the fight he never wanted in the first place, Runt drops his stick and instead dives shoulder first towards the back of Deng's knee.  He knew he might not be big enough to get the man down of his own accord but he could prevent him from balancing enough that the man might fall of his own accord, or with help from the girl.

Runts shoulder hits into Deng's leg, and both arms wrap around, securing a firm grip.  Aware of little else of the fight, Runt opens his mouth wide, sinking his newly cut front front four teeth into the man's calf.

Whump!

Somewhere above Runt, a solid blow lands with a guttural exhalation like a deflating balloon.  Deng's goes limp in Runt's arms and he is barely able to scramble his way out from under the falling form before Deng hits the ground, utterly unconscious.

Runt pushes himself to his feet with a quick look at the girl before focusing his attention back on the beggar who had tried to extort him for a whole week's worth of earnings.

Deng looked pathetic.  His eyes were sunken, one of them swelling and looking as if it were just biding its time to go fully black.  Across the rest of his exposed skin were bruises... clearly, few of them, if any, were from this fight.  Runt wondered just how many fights this man had been in recently, and why.

"You're a piece of shit Deng."  The girl says.  She looks mussed, her own eye starting to swell slightly.  She seems to have attention for no one but Deng at the moment, drinking in the unconscious form with her eyes.

OOC:  The girl scored a moderate blow to the groin, which was enough to put Deng into negative HP.  He failed a HT roll and passed out from his wounds.  Your bite landed, and was certainly a moral boost, if not actually adding to the damage.  We are out of combat mode, and you can start posting normally.

Runt just stood there for a brief moment, 'what ifs' running through his mind and none of them with good outcomes.

"You fight good," he said to the girl.  "And I say thank you for that.  You think you help me but you done made things badder than they was.  When Deng wake up he gonna be real mad at me.  Hunt me down.  And he ain't gonna give me no warning.  He just kill me.  So I can't make no money no more with him hunting me.  And if he get dead here then the Guard gonna come looking for me for that.  So I still can't make no money.  You done mess stuff up bad."  Should have just let him chase me.  He would of never catched me.  And I'd have made him go where I wanted."

"You fight good."

The words take the girl out of her momentary trance and she seems to notice Runt for the first time as she swipes a handful of her hair back behind her ear.

"Yeah, no...."

But as Runt continues, the girl stops, her face slowly shifting from contentment to confusion to distaste...  a look like she had eaten a sweetmeat only to find it had gone sour.

"I didn't keep you from running kid..."  The girl looks like she is going to say more, but she looks over at Deng's unconscious form again and shakes her head.

The girl's face hardens and her jaw juts forward.  She stays in silence for a moment, then spits on the ground next to her as she turns her back to Runt.

"Ok.  Next time your on your own then kid.  Hope you can run as fast as you think you do."

And the girl walks off, leaving Runt standing over Deng, with only a few kids still left watching from a safe distance.

OOC:  Feel free to write a closing post to this thread.

Runt watched the girl walk away and noted the observers.  He thought about leaving immediately, but then remembered the money Deng had stolen from him.  He quickly searched where he had seen the thug stash it.  With that in hand, he recovered his broomstick and made himself scarce, heading out to finish the day's business.  As he walked, thoughts rushing through his head, he came to a simple conclusion - he had to leave the city, and quickly.