The next morning, Zeph woke to a notification that made him smile for the first time in what felt like weeks.
[TRANSFER COMPLETE: 50,000 credits]
[New Balance: 60,461 credits]
He immediately opened his banking app and transferred 16,000 credits to his landlord. Two months rent, paid in advance.
[Transfer Complete: Rent Payment - 16,000 credits]
[New Balance: 44,461 credits]
'That's breathing room. That's security. That's not having to worry about eviction notices or employment verification for at least eight weeks.'
A message from his landlord arrived thirty seconds later:
"Rent received. Thank you for the advance payment. Hope you're feeling better!"
'Right. I told him I was sick. Should probably maintain that story.'
He sent back: "Much better now. Thanks for understanding."
'Okay. Rent handled. Now for the important part.'
Zeph opened the Union marketplace again and started his search in earnest.
He wasn't shopping randomly. He had a PLAN.
