Poor. A poor lifestyle means going without the comforts available in a stable community. Simple food and lodgings, threadbare clothing, and unpredictable Conditions result in a sufficient, though probably unpleasant, experience.
In a dark alley at night, they were attacked by thugs. Before they can take anything, they turn white with terror and run away. They discovered that they have a guardian ghost, a wise, benign spirit who accompanies them.