Somewhere on the outskirts of Detroit... 

Sleeping rough always brought its risks. Having failed to find suitable accommodation, Anthony was reduced to stealing away in unlocked properties or locating a dry alley. It was cheap, however would ultimately cost him everything he had. 

A powerful jab to the nose, followed by a blow to the abdomen.

The boy lurched backwards, gripping at his gut. The next swing came, though his arms were raised in time to absorb the blow. The next sailed past him as he stepped back, throwing the assailant off balance. The boy took the opportunity and landed a solid hook to the side of his head. His advantage was short lived, as a second figure swept his legs out from under him with a single kick.

They were considerably larger than Anthony and older by around 6 to 8 years. Dressed in vests and pants, the trio were aspiring street bosses, embracing every possible opportunity to earn some extra coin. Or take it, as the case may be.

The boy got back up.

Using the wall as support, he eventually stood independently of it and stared down the group. The three goaded him, spewing idle insults and threats of death. Anthony felt his face glow as they repeatedly slapped him. It turned a shade of crimson from cheek to cheek. He stumbled and staggered as they shoved him between themselves. Eventually, as the chance presented itself, he lashed out, only to be beaten down again. 

The group began to rifle through his pockets, taking everything. Recent pickings, cash and effects were stripped from the boy, while he coughed and spluttered on the ground.

The boy got back up, though. 

He stood hunched between them, wiping the blood from his mouth and stared them down once more. As the next volley of attacks came, Anthony did his best to weave between them, striking back where possible and using his size and speed to his advantage. It wasn't long before he took one too many hits, a blow to the head put him down again. From there he was struck again, and again. Kicks to the gut took the breath from his lungs and ribs cracked. He cried out once, only once, before they finally relented. The assailants jeered him some more while congratulating each other on their individual efforts.

But the boy got back up.