Use subtle gestures, slang, and body language to convey secret messages understood only by those in the know - without alerting outsiders.
Roll 1d100 + Thieves Cant skill vs. DR 100 + modifiers for clarity, length, stress, and distractions.
If successful, the message is delivered covertly. The recipient understands the full meaning without outsiders noticing or deciphering it.
+10 to +40 DR for longer, complex, or multi-layered messages (+40 being a full sentence conveying a complex message).
+20 DR if used during combat or under stress.
-20 DR if the context is known or pre-agreed.
–10 to –30 DR if message is short, rehearsed, or previously used with the receiver.
Nodding subtly to tell an ally which guard has the keys, in a calm moment: DR = 70 (simple message - 10 DR, known context -20 DR).
Thieves Cant allows a character to communicate secret messages using a coded combination of gestures, posture, slang, and subtle wordplay—known only to a trained underworld circle. This skill is a cornerstone of criminal operations, rogue guilds, and underground movements, letting users signal allies, pass hidden warnings, or coordinate illicit activity without attracting attention.
The language is intentionally layered and informal, often tailored between individuals or local groups, which makes improvisation risky and long messages difficult to encode or decode quickly. Complexity, stress, and context all influence success - rapid messages in combat, or impromptu signals with new contacts, are far harder to pull off than rehearsed signs or prearranged cues.
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