Underclass

There are a lot of shining jewels among the stars: planets with power and prestige, where high rises almost reach low orbit and private satellite hotels hold operas behind massive windows so the privileged elite get to hear the finest set of pipes to ever sing against a backdrop of distant worlds. And every single one of those beautiful places and dazzling sights, spinning in the void and casting sparkling ships into the distance… has the underclass. Doing the hard work, the real work, that lets that one person spend their life in leisure. Toiling in mines, working machinery, even polishing the fancy cutlery that’s worth more than their life to the person paying their wages.

Close-knit families, whether brought together by blood or circumstance, are vital in such communities, often living together to save on rent. Those unable to work the demanding work available often provide childcare so that those parents able to can seek employment, either in one of the shining high-rise buildings, or off-world entirely. Such children also raise themselves and each other, to an extent, building the connections and relationships necessary to survive such a hardscrabble environment.

Characters raised in the underclass culture share a variety of traits in common with one another.

Faceless. Few truly see those of your social standing as individuals, and you’ve learned to use this to your advantage. You gain an expertise die to Deception, Persuasion, Stealth and disguise kit checks made to pose as a servant (such as custodial crew, wait staff, or the like), likely granting you access to areas where you would otherwise be unable to access, and to move unobtrusively through such spaces (though doing so still likely requires an appropriate uniform or other prop). Additionally, you gain an expertise die on Stealth checks to blend into crowds.

Good in a Pinch. You are used to defending yourself by whatever means available. You are proficient with improvised weapons.

One Step Ahead. Growing up on the wrong side of everything has taught you to be hyper aware of authority figures. You gain an expertise die to Insight and Perception checks made to spot active-duty law enforcers, such as police and security, and to discern plainclothes police, undercover security, and the like as being in disguise.

Pull Together. Relying and being relied upon by your community makes you adept at lending a hand. You can perform the Help action as a bonus action.

Languages. You can read, sign, speak, and write Common and one other language.