So I do a new character in Skyrim. I'm at level 6. I'm just goofing around Riverwood when a group of Hired Thugs come after me. Over and over they slaughter me, and nobody in the streets or the inn will come to my aid. Desperate, I slip into the nearest house, which happens to be Gerdur's. As soon as I get in there, the family draws weapons to defend me, their friend. They and the thugs go into a bloody battle while I hide in the corner. Finally, when it's all over, with the thugs and Hod lying dead on the floor, I look at Ralof and he says "I TOLD you my sister would help us out".