Run or Die, Game 10— Mumbai Drift

Summary

In a high-stakes game of "Run or Die" set in Mumbai, the protagonist aims for a tenth consecutive win amidst challenges from a knowledgeable adversary and a city unknown to them, while the show's host attempts to thwart their success to avoid a large payout.

Abstract

The narrative follows an unnamed protagonist in the midst of a deadly game show, "Run or Die," where they must navigate the streets of Mumbai to secure a tenth straight victory. With a prize of 1 billion currencies on the line, the show's host, Edward John, has made this round intentionally difficult. The protagonist, unfamiliar with Mumbai, is pursued by Matt, a cockney dwarf with extensive knowledge of the city through his local girlfriend, Preeti. The protagonist's survival instincts kick in, drawing on past experiences such as competitive undies throwing, to outwit their opponent. They seek protection by running behind a bus driven by an argumentative penguin-looking driver, a choice that may lead to their demise. The story is inspired by real commenters and is part of a series of interconnected tales featuring the characters mentioned.

Opinions

The protagonist views the show's host and the cockney dwarf, Matt, as adversaries attempting to prevent their win.
The protagonist has a dismissive attitude towards the local cuisine, expressing a preference for tandoori over tikka masala.
There is a sense of frustration and accusation towards the show's host, referring to them as "a bunch of scammers" for making the game unfairly difficult.
The protagonist shows resourcefulness and determination, using their competitive background to navigate the challenges.
The protagonist's choice of a "Bad Bus Driver" as an ally suggests a willingness to take risks and use unconventional methods for survival.
The mention of an "Argumentative Penguin" as the bus driver introduces a humorous and whimsical element to the narrative, while also hinting at potential danger.
The author acknowledges the community by using names from commenters and offers an apology if the story does not meet expectations, showing a considerate and interactive approach to storytelling.

I want to win

Matt, the read-headed cockney dwarf, is after me. We have just been teleported in the middle of Mumbai for a game of run or die. And, contrary to this Rob Roy cockney, I don’t know the city.

Edward John, the show host, has been clear. This round is meant to be extra hard on me. After my nine wins series, they will do anything to get me killed and avoid paying the 1 billion currencies waiting for the 10 straight winner. Bunch of scammers.

Matt wasn’t born in Mumbai, that’s against the rules, but he has been dating Preeti, the famous Dhangari Gaja singer, for twelve years now. He knows the city by dick, if not by heart.

If I don’t find something quick, there are going to make a tikka masala of me. The horror; I only eat tandoori. Makes me hungry. I turn right on Kanda Batata Poha and catch a vada pav from a vendor. “I’ll pay you hundredfold with my wins,” I shout, running away.

I’m not a nine straight winner for nothing.

I’ve got resources. And I’ve been through worse in my life. I was a competitive undies thrower in my youth. Nothing can match the pressure of throwing the thong of the love of your life for a world champion title. Nothing.

I need a bus driver. A Bad Bus Driver. One that is ready to roadkill some innocents for currencies. In a city that big, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find. Nothing like running behind a bus for speed and protection.

Found one! He looks like a penguin; that’s good! Penguin-looking bus drivers are usually mean beasts on the roads.

Fuck.

I’m dead.

This story was inspired by the Argumentative Penguin’s micro-confession in the shortform. I used names from commenters there. I hope you liked it, people! I ask for your forgiveness if you didn’t. Private note me if you want your name removed.

Here are some stories from the heroes mentioned above:

Smillew is a Medium writer that writes mainly about Undies, his Medium newsletter, and his Medium referral link. No need to follow him; he’ll show up in your feed.

Run or Die, Game 10— Mumbai Drift

I want to win

The Hot Button of Remote Work

Nothing seems as much of a hot button issue in the business world as the issue of white collar workers either staying…

It’s Okay If You Don’t Read This

You do you, Boo.

⭐😃⭐😃⭐ Eye-Catching Title ⭐😃⭐😃⭐

Why aren’t more people using emojis in their stories?

Texas Criminalizes Contraception (2028)

Austin, Texas, July 04, 2028

About Microcosm

A publication for readers and writers who love tiny stories with big hearts.