Deadly Nightshade MXMXM

IV

I had to find a way to survive and make something of myself. Every morning, I woke up on the hard ground feeling terrible, with so much pain racking my body.

The first thing on my mind was getting out of these grimy clothes, finding a comfortable bed to rest in, and perhaps getting something to eat to fill me up.
As I wandered around the neighborhood known as Woodcreek, I knew I would have to locate a homeless shelter and take the necessary steps to get myself back on track.
After what seemed like an eternity, I eventually stumbled upon a place., entered with  my head hanging low,
"Hello, I was wondering if there are any beds still available," I inquired, my voice barely rising above a nervous whisper.

The woman seated at the desk shot me a piercing look, her words laced with disdain. "You should head straight ahead, and maybe consider freshening up with a change of clothes and a bath. You smell," she uttered with a cutting and dismissive tone.

I took a moment to silently express gratitude and continued on my way. I noticed some baskets filled with clothes, which, while not top quality, were an improvement over what I was currently wearing. As I searched around the area, my eyes scanned for an open shower stall.
After a few moments, I spotted an unoccupied one and made my way over.
I quickly took off my clothes turned the shower on and let the water hit my body. It has been a long time since I felt so amazing.

After I finished my shower, I paused for a moment to admire my reflection in the mirror. My hair was exceptionally clean, and with the outfit I had on, I looked quite presentable. I quietly made my way to the unoccupied bed, rested my head on the pillow, and for once, slept peacefully.

The morning arrived and I realized I needed to swiftly reorganize my priorities. Finding employment and earning some money became urgent tasks, especially as I couldn't afford to linger in Woodcreek and draw unwanted attention. I hastily freshened up, hoping to make a favorable impression despite my lack of relevant experience or formal education.

Today was quite disappointing. I made attempts to apply for jobs or even inquire about openings, but I encountered a lot of places that were either fully staffed or uninterested in hiring. Feeling defeated, I started making my way back to the shelter, but then I decided to take a chance and apply at the convenience store nearby. It's owned by a kind old lady who seemed approachable.

"Hi, my name is Azrael, and I'm interested in any job openings you may have," I said to the old lady. She gazed at me, a warm smile lighting up her face. "I could certainly use a helping hand around here, but I'm afraid I can't offer much in terms of pay at the moment. If you're still interested, the job is all yours," she said. Unbeknownst to her, I was in dire need of money and willing to take on any work.

After getting everything sorted out, I left the convenience store feeling happier than ever. It seems like my life has taken a turn for the better.

The routine of my days began with preparing at the homeless shelter and then making my way to the convenience store to get my job done. This was my life for the next 5 months, during which I didn't even touch a penny of the money I earned from working at the convenience store. Eventually, I managed to save up enough to afford a small apartment for myself. I was truly beginning to embrace and appreciate my life in Woodcreek.

As I continued on my way, my heart sank when I caught sight of an old packmate from my previous group. Knowing their tendency to snoop around, I hurried to the shelter where I had befriended some locals. After swiftly gathering my belongings, I made my way to the train station, all the while being cautious not to attract any unwanted attention. Uncertain of my destination, I felt the pressing need to depart once more.

My heart was in so much pain, as I had built a life for myself, only to have to start over from scratch. However, starting over felt better than being dead