Worthless Husk

You were born into a world that saw you as utterly worthless, a waste of skin. Deemed talentless and devoid of potential, you were cast aside by those around you. As a Worthless Husk, you have learned to navigate the treacherous environment of the city, using your wits and endurance to survive. Given the chance to grow—a chance which you may never get—you could prove that even the most overlooked souls can make a difference in this twisted world.

Features

Bottom Dweller

Having been discarded by society, you're familiar with desperation. You know the darkest corners of the city like the back of your hand. Whether it's the dank sewers, abandoned buildings, or the shadowy back alleys, you can navigate these places with ease and can often find shelter or a safe passage where others would see only squalor and danger. You require half as much food and water as a regular member of your race to survive, and have advantage on all Survival checks made to maintain a Wretched lifestyle.

Optional Feature: Worthless

With your GM’s approval can pick this feature instead of Bottom Feeder.   You are worthless, but you show a sliver of potential. When you choose this background at 1st level, reduce your highest ability score until the sum of your six ability scores is equal to 72 or fewer. Then, reduce each ability score by 1.   When you reach 4th level, and again at 8th, 12th, 16th, and 19th level, you can increase one ability score of your choice by 2 or you can increase two ability scores of your choice by 1. You can't increase an ability score above 18 using this feature.

Suggested Characteristics

Your life has been defined by neglect and devaluation. Deemed worthless by those around you, you've developed a grit and tenacity that allows you to thrive in the harshest conditions. Your perceived weakness could be your greatest strength, and in spite of your circumstances, you remain hopeful of proving your worth.

Traits

d8	Personality Trait
1	I am quiet and withdrawn, preferring to remain in the background and observe.
2	I am fiercely determined to prove my worth and show that I am more than just a waste of skin.
3	I am quick to mistrust, always suspecting others' motives due to my past experiences.
4	I've developed a sharp sense of humor as a coping mechanism.
5	I have a tendency to hoard items, never knowing when I might need them.
6	I am always scheming, to be ready for whatever life throws at me.
7	I often underestimate my worth and potential, always expecting to fail.
8	I've grown to appreciate the little joys in life, as they are far and few between.

Ideal

d6	Ideal
1	Perseverance: No matter how many times I'm knocked down, I will keep getting back up. (Any)
2	Growth: I seek to find my hidden potential and make a difference in this harsh world. (Good)
3	Independence: I will rely on no one but myself. I am all I need. (Chaotic)
4	Vengeance: I will show those who discarded me the error of their ways. (Evil)
5	Acceptance: I strive to find a place where I am accepted as I am. (Neutral)
6	Redemption: I seek to prove that everyone, even someone like me, can change for the better. (Lawful)

Bond

d6	Bond
1	I will protect the few friends I have made in this dark city, as they have shown me kindness when others would not.
2	I am searching for a person who can help me unlock my true potential and find my place in this world.
3	I am determined to create a better life for the other discarded souls in the city.
4	I harbor a desire to confront those who cast me aside and show them how far I've come.
5	Precious memories, the only thing I have from my past, drives me to keep going.
6	I've made a secret promise to myself that I’d rather die than stay worthless

Flaw

d6	Flaw
1	I possess a crippling fear of abandonment, leading me to cling to unhealthy relationships even when they are detrimental to my well-being.
2	My self-destructive tendencies manifest in addictive behaviors, using substances or vices as a means to escape from my own perceived worthlessness.
3	I have a hard time letting go of any perceived slights or insults, often holding grudges.
4	My survival instincts can make me selfish, often choosing my wellbeing over others.
5	I tend to push people away, afraid that they will eventually discard me like the rest.
6	I am often reckless, after all, I have nothing to lose.