This Rogues Guide

to Thieves’ Cant

Created by DFMS for DMs Guild

 Table Of Contents
Introduction to Thieves’ Cant 3
Origins 3
The Guild 4
The Bead Code 5
Guild Member Levels 5
Initiate (Iron) 5
Novice (Copper) 5
Agent (Silver) 5
Lieutenant (Gold) 5
Mastermind (Platinum) 5
Guildmaster (Mithril) 5
Factions 6
Trades 6
Quick Reference 7
Language 8
Cant Marks 8
Cant Marks (Text Description) 9
Hand Signals 10
Hand Signals (Text Description) 10
Verbal and Written 11
Examples 12
 Introduction to Thieves’ Cant
Thieves’ Cant is more than just a language, it’s a culture. Thieves’ Cant has a deep-rooted history and has adapted over
centuries into what it is today. It no doubt will adapt further as time goes on to update with modern times and needs.
The goal of Thieves’ Cant is simple. To effectively and covertly communicate between those who have learned its ways
while maintaining an air of innocence to those surrounding you.
Thieves’ Cant is not merely a language; it’s a way of life for those who practice it. Its culture instils secrecy as a core
value, and it demands loyalty to one’s fellow rogues. The Cant’s teachings emphasize the importance of trust, codes of
conduct, and unwritten rules that govern the behaviour of those who use it.
In this guide, I will talk through how its practitioners practice it and how you too can learn this ancient tongue. Guard
this knowledge well because many have lost lives protecting it. Were one guard to learn its secrets and pass it up the
chain of command, even worse to an organisation, it could mean the end of the guild’s activities.
In your D&D world, Thieves’ Cant exists as a rich and multifaceted culture with deep historical roots. It shapes the
lives of rogues and criminals, bringing them together and giving them an edge in a world full of intrigue and danger.
The Cant is not just a language; it’s a living, breathing culture that influences the behaviours, customs, and traditions
of those who have adopted it. Players may choose to embrace or confront this culture as they navigate the complex
web of the criminal underworld.

Origins
Thieves’ Cant, also known as the Rogue’s Cant, is a language of the shadows, whispered in the darkest corners of
society. Its origins are veiled in mystery, making it a culture in itself, passed down from generation to generation of
rogues, criminals, and those who operate in the underworld. Its evolution is a testament to the resourcefulness and
resilience of those who tread the thin line between legality and crime.
Thieves’ Cant’s roots trace back to a time when oppression and lawlessness were prevalent in many societies. Early
rogues and outlaws needed a way to communicate secretly, share information, and protect their kind from harsh
authorities. The first iterations of the Cant were simple symbols, gestures, and hushed phrases. These early signs of
rebellion evolved into a unique code that united the shadowy figures of the world.
Over time, Thieves’ Cant evolved into a complex lexicon. It incorporated terms, slang, and coded language that allowed
rogues to discuss illegal activities discreetly. The language borrowed words and symbols from multiple sources,
including various dialects, jargon, and secret signals from different regions. As a result, Thieves’ Cant became a
tapestry of linguistic elements.
Thieves’ Cant culture was further moulded by the rise of organized criminal guilds and factions. These groups
introduced structure and standardized elements of the Cant. They established specific symbols, phrases, and gestures
that denoted affiliation, loyalty, and rank within their organizations.

2
The Guild
The Thieves’ Guild is a shadowy and clandestine
organization that operates in the hidden corners of the
world, thriving in secrecy and subterfuge. While its
members are often viewed as criminals and rogues, the
Guild is a complex and structured entity with its own
code of conduct, hierarchy, and unwritten rules. This
guild claims ownership over this system as a whole
though the complete origins are a mystery even to them.
The Thieves’ Guild comprises several distinct factions,
each led by its own Guildmaster. These factions
function independently and often compete for influence
and power within the broader Guild. Each Guildmaster
holds authority over their specific faction and has a
unique leadership style. They are masters of subterfuge
and intrigue, and their decisions greatly influence the
fate of their respective factions. Below this Guildmaster
is a regimented level structure of leadership.
While certain principles, such as secrecy and trust,
remain constant across factions, each faction may have
its own set of unwritten rules and specialized practices
tailored to its operations. To maintain cooperation
within the Guild, factions must respect the autonomy
and interests of other factions. Betrayal between
factions can strain the delicate balance of power within
the Guild.
One of the primary benefits of the Guild’s cooperative
structure is the seamless flow of information between
factions. This allows the Guild to possess a vast
network of informants and spies, providing invaluable
insights into both the criminal underworld and the
world at large. When faced with significant
opportunities or threats, factions can coordinate their
efforts, leading to large-scale heists, intricate
manipulations, or subversion of powerful figures.
Players may find themselves entangled in the power
struggles between factions, working with or against
specific Guildmasters, or seeking to exploit the Guild’s
capabilities for their own gain. The Guild’s dynamic
nature makes it a versatile and unpredictable force in
your campaign world, offering countless plot
possibilities

3
 The Bead Code
Identification of those capable of conversing in the tongue of thieves’ cant and those who are capable of carrying out
word must be done covertly. As such it is possible for those imbued with the knowledge of the streets to identify those
who are in specific trades at a glance using a code known as “The Beads” to those informed.
The Beads in question are a set of coloured and shaped beads connected on the left ear to a dangling earring.
Someone accustomed could spy a bead from across a busy market and instantly know who this person is. Not by name
but by affiliation. What trade they specialise in, which guild faction they are in and at which level of the organisation.
All from a glance.

Guild Member Levels

These descriptions give an overview of each level within the Thieves’ Guild, from the humble beginnings of Initiates to
the influential and strategic leadership of the Guildmasters. Each level comes with its own responsibilities,
opportunities for advancement, and unique contributions to the Guild’s operations.
It is crucial a member or non-member is aware of the level of the individual they are speaking to within the
organisation. As such this is accounted for within “The Bead” code structure. Below you will find the associated
colours for each level of the organisation.
Initiate (Iron) Lieutenant (Gold)
Initiates are the entry-level members of the Thieves’ Lieutenants are experienced and respected members of
Guild. They are novices in the world of organized crime, the Guild. They have demonstrated their leadership
often coming from backgrounds of poverty or skills, and many aspire to take on even more significant
desperation. Initiates receive basic training and are roles within the organization. Lieutenants are
taught the fundamentals of thievery, secrecy, and the responsible for overseeing large-scale operations,
Guild’s code of conduct. Initiates are often tasked with recruiting new members, and maintaining discipline
menial and low-risk jobs, such as pickpocketing and among lower-ranking members. They serve as a bridge
minor heists. They serve as the foundation upon which between the agents and higher-ranking Guild members.
the Guild is built, and many aim to climb the ranks.
Mastermind (Platinum)
Novice (Copper)
Masterminds are the elite of the Thieves’ Guild. They
Novices have successfully passed their initiation and are strategic thinkers, often recognized for their
demonstrated a basic understanding of thievery and unparalleled cunning and ability to manipulate
loyalty to the Guild. They continue their training and situations to their advantage. Masterminds orchestrate
gain more significant responsibilities. Novices are complex heists, espionage missions, and long-term
entrusted with more complex tasks, such as burglary or schemes. They have a deep understanding of the Guild’s
information gathering. They are closely monitored by inner workings and have considerable influence over its
higher-ranking members to assess their potential. operations.
Agent (Silver) Guildmaster (Mithril)
Agents are proficient thieves with a strong track record Guildmasters are the leaders of specific factions within
of success. They have proven their loyalty and the Thieves’ Guild. They are chosen for their
adaptability, and they are often seen as emerging exceptional skills, charisma, and strategic thinking.
leaders. Agents take on tasks like coordinating heists, Each Guildmaster operates their faction independently,
leading small crews, and managing operations. They yet cooperates with others for the Guild’s greater goals.
have earned the trust of the Guild and may mentor less Guildmasters have the authority to make key decisions
experienced members. for their faction, such as setting goals, defining the
faction’s role within the broader Guild, and resolving
conflicts. They are the figureheads of the Guild’s
cooperative network

4
Factions
The faction symbols within the Thieves’ Guild are more than just decorative adornments; they are an integral part of
the bead code system, working in harmony to provide a nuanced and layered identification system for Guild members.
The symbol of a faction a Guild member is associated with hangs proudly from the bottom of the earring where the
beads are adorned.
Each of these symbols has a long tradition within its faction and a deeper meaning often known only to them. Each
faction’s unique symbol distinguishes it from the others. This distinction is not only a point of pride but also serves as a
visual representation of the faction’s values, specializations, and goals. Once initiated into a faction, the symbol
becomes a powerful representation of identity and loyalty. Guild members wear it with pride and a sense of belonging,
reinforcing their commitment to their faction’s objectives.
Symbols facilitate cooperation between factions. Recognizing the symbols of other factions helps Guild members
identify allies, particularly during large-scale operations that involve multiple factions working in concert. The symbols
can also have an intimidating effect on outsiders who recognize them. The knowledge that the Thieves’ Guild is a
powerful and interconnected entity can deter potential threats and rivals. Sometimes, the symbols are used
strategically in the underworld. They can be left at crime scenes, on secret messages, or as a warning to those who
might encroach on the Guild’s territory.
Below are some symbols and the associated factions you may wish to make use of within your story. Each is unique
and brings with it an overall sense of the world it inhabits.
Faction Name Symbol
The Black Lotus Society A black lotus flower in full bloom
The Iron Serpent Syndicate A coiled, metallic serpent
The Shadowed Dagger Brotherhood A sleek, shadowy dagger with an intricate hilt
The Crimson Quill Cartel A crimson quill dripping with dark ink
The Whispering Owls Circle An owl in flight with a hushed expression
The Amber Talon League An amber talon clutching a gem
The Silver Veil Society A delicate, silvery veil with intricate patterns
The Gilded Rose Ring A golden rose in full bloom
The Azure Cloak Covenant An azure-hued cloak with a hooded figure
The Ebon Mask Collective An ebony mask with enigmatic markings

Trades
Trades are what those who follow the path of the
thieves’ cant call a specialisation, a role within the
various undertakings of a faction. The information
provided from the beads is two fold.
Bead Color: The colour of the bead on the earring
signifies a person’s role within the thieving trade.
This system allows individuals to quickly identify each
other’s roles and skill levels within the thieving trade
based on the colour and number of beads on their
earrings.. Below you will find a list of the basic common
colours and their related trade.
Role Color Role Name

Bead Count: The number of beads on the earring

Forest Green Pickpocket

represents the skill level of the specialization of the Blood Red Assassin

individual. Midnight Navy

Royal Blue
Smuggler
Information Broker
Sienna Brown Forger
Silver Gray Fence

5
Quick Reference
Role Color Role Name
Bead Identifier Level Forest Green Pickpocket
Iron Initiate Blood Red Assassin
Copper Novice Midnight Navy Smuggler
Silver Agent Royal Blue Information Broker
Gold Lieutenant Sienna Brown Forger
Platinum Mastermind Silver Gray Fence
Mithril Guildmaster

Faction Name Symbol

The Black Lotus Society A black lotus flower in full bloom
The Iron Serpent Syndicate A coiled, metallic serpent
The Shadowed Dagger Brotherhood A sleek, shadowy dagger with an intricate hilt
The Crimson Quill Cartel A crimson quill dripping with dark ink
The Whispering Owls Circle An owl in flight with a hushed expression
The Amber Talon League An amber talon clutching a gem
The Silver Veil Society A delicate, silvery veil with intricate patterns
The Gilded Rose Ring A golden rose in full bloom
The Azure Cloak Covenant An azure-hued cloak with a hooded figure
The Ebon Mask Collective An ebony mask with enigmatic markings
Language
The language of Thieves’ Cant is highly complex and takes a lifetime to master skilfully. What we cover here are the
very basic fundamentals of the language and anyone using these would attain an average understanding of the
Thieves’ Cant language. Only Grandmasters and those truly dedicated to the study of the language can understand and
converse in it at such a high level to be thought of as experts.
Cant Marks
Information cannot always be passed in person. Sometimes a simple mark to show which direction to go or where to
find a cache is crucial to someone completing a task. This is why Cant Marks were created. You may find the below
marks on walls in dungeons, the sides of buildings or carved into a door. They may be subtle and seem innocuous to
the passer by. Simply a little graffiti mark, but to the trained eye this is a wealth of information. Cant Marks are the
simplest form of the Thieves’ Cant language and can be taught quickly to initiates and picked up by association with
Guild members.

7
 Cant Marks (Text Description)

All Cant Marks are formed within the outline of a circle with various adjustments made to indicate intent. Below is a
table for those not able to see the image above giving text-based descriptions of the Cant Marks and their uses.
Symbol Description
Turn left A line from the middle of the circle extends out of it to the right.
Turn back A line from the middle of the circle extending out of it to the bottom.
Loot ahead An outline of a square within the circle with another circle outline within the box.
No loot An outline of a square within the circle with another circle outline within the box, with a diagonal score mark through the
inner circle from top left to bottom right.
Turn right A line from the middle of the circle extends out of it to the left.
Sanctuary A heart shape in the middle of the circle. Intersecting with the outer edges of the circle at the vertical middle are two
lines. One on the left edge and one on the right edge, each of these lines is orientated horizontally.
Magic User Two lines form a triangle over the top of the circle like a wizard’s hat using the top of the circle as the third edge of the
triangle.
Guards alert Within the circle is a smaller circle centred vertically and horizontally.
Guards lazy Within the circle is a smaller oval centred vertically and horizontally so the height of the oval is smaller than the width.
Guards Within the circle is a smaller oval centred vertically and horizontally so the height of the oval is smaller than the width.
bribable Within this is a circle.
Danger Inside the circle is a diagonal slash from top left to bottom right.
Rich noble Inside the circle is another circle with four more circles within that inner circle.
Off limits Three diagonal scores run from top left to bottom right perpendicular to each other.
Work here Two vertical lines run parallel inside the circle.
Pay respect Two horizontal lines run parallel inside the circle.
Pickpocket Two vertical lines run parallel inside the circle from the top down to the vertical middle of the circle.
Supply cache An outline of a square within the circle with a heart within the square.
Animal An outline of a square within the circle is orientated to be vertically cantered but touching the left edge of the circle. At
guard the middle of the circle, two lines meet but one extends upwards at a 45-degree angle and the other downwards.
Keep quiet At the bottom edge of the circle is a small circle centred horizontally and extending from this small inner circle is a line
vertically upwards into the middle of the larger outer circle.
Traps Three perpendicular lines run from the lower edge of the circle.

8
Hand Signals
Hand signals are a vital part of Thieves’ Cant as by the very nature of the occupations associated with it, silent
communication is crucial. It is not uncommon for professionals with specialisations to work together on a single goal
or for multiple people with the same specialisation to work towards a challenging task. Further, the process of gaining
field experience through mentoring necessitates the learning of these hand signals early. Below are guides to the basic
hand signals that are common across the language though some factions may have unique additions these are the core
language known to all.

Hand Signals (Text Description)

Hand Sign BSL Description

Stop Flat hand upright with all fingers touching.
Go Flat hand upright with no fingers touching.
Enemy Full C shape
Numbers Upright hand with the number of digits held out.
Attack Closed hand knuckle down.
Take Closed hand with thumb touching index finger.
Give Open hand with palm upwards making a cup.
Move Quiet V hand with both fingers pointed down.
Hide Open hand with palm downwards making a cup.
Message me Closed hand with thumb and pinkie extended.
All good Closed hand with thumb extended upwards.
What Full O hand with palm upwards.

9
 Verbal and Written
Thieves’ Cant is a secretive language used by the Thieves’ Guild to encode spoken or written messages with hidden
meanings. It relies on a combination of carefully chosen words, homophones, and contextual cues to convey intentions
covertly. There are three basic principles of the language as it is a language hidden within another.
Homophonic Phrases:
Words that sound similar to their intended meaning are used. For example, “Rise” might be used to signify a hidden
message to gather, as it sounds like “arise.”
Subtle Gestures:
Non-verbal cues, such as a specific hand gesture or the way a message is delivered, can indicate whether the spoken
words carry a hidden intention.
Known Code Phrases:
Certain phrases or keywords are universally recognized within the Thieves’ Cant and their true meanings are passed
down among Guild members.
Below are a selection of basic and more complex Known Code Phrases.

Basic Language True meaning Complex Language True meaning

Meet Greet Betrayal Shadows’ Unmasking
Information Knowledge Undercover Agent Veiled Observer
Enemy Rival Infiltration Whispered Embrace
Allies Comrades Espionage Silent Intrigue
Midnight Moon’s Shadow Deception Illusion’s Dance
Danger Shadows Lurk Sabotage Shadow’s Web
Guard Watchful Eyes Alliance Silent Unity
Steal Borrow Covert Operation Veil of Shadows
Treasure Shimmering Dreams Counterintelligence Silent Watchers
Hide Blend Inconspicuous Unseen Presence
Entry Welcoming Path Revelation Whispers Revealed
Escape Vanish Conspiracy Veiled Agendas
Infiltrate Whispered Entry Double Agent Shadows’ Duplicity
Watch Silent Gaze Smokescreen Whispered Distraction
Secure Embrace Shadows Infiltrator Embraced Shadows
Protect Veil Manipulation Silent Influence
Attack Shadow’s Touch Coercion Shadow’s Compulsion
Message Silent Exchange Compromise Veiled Vulnerability
Safe House Sanctuary Secret Meeting Whispered Rendezvous
Plan Veiled Scheme Cryptic Message Enigma’s Whispers
Key Hidden Link Intricate Plot Labyrinth of Shadows
Entryway Welcoming Passage Hidden Agenda Veiled Motives
Information Broker Silent Whisperer Disguise Silent Camouflage
Guards Watchful Shadows Interrogation Shadows’ Inquisition
Riches Moonlit Bounty Covert Contact Whispers in the Dark
Gather Concealment Meeting Misdirection Shadow’s Illusion
Allies Silent Companions Silent Escape Veiled Departure
Safe Sheltered Haven Cryptanalysis Whispers’ Deciphering
Treasure Map Guiding Star’s Secret Hidden Identity Silent Personae
Danger Veiled Peril Underworld Veiled Realm

10
Examples
Example 1
Player 1:
The moon’s shadow falls upon the Veil of Shadows tonight.
(Hidden Message: “We have a secret operation tonight.”)

Player 2:
Yes, and the stars are in full bloom. Shall we meet at the Silent Rendezvous?
(Hidden Message: “It’s time for our covert meeting at the designated location.”)

Player 1:
Agreed. The Illusion’s Dance begins at the second hour.
(Hidden Message: “I’ll be there. The operation starts at 2 AM.”)

Example 2
Player 1:
Greet the moon’s shadow beneath the Shimmering Dreams.
(Hidden Message: “Let’s rendezvous near the treasure location.”)

Player 2:
Under the Veiled Unity, I shall guard the Embraced Shadows.
(Hidden Message: “I’ll protect the hidden entrance.”)

Player 1:
We need the Illusion’s Dance to distract the Watchful Shadows.
(Hidden Message: “Use the covert performance to divert the guards.”)

Example 3
Player 1:
Whispered Watchers have eyes on the Silent Rendezvous.
(Hidden Message: “Beware, we’re being observed during the meeting.”)

Player 2:
Moon’s Shadow conceals our true intentions.
(Hidden Message: “Our plan remains hidden.”)

Player 1:
Let’s complete the Shadows’ Duplicity by midnight.
(Hidden Message: “We’ll execute the double-cross plan at midnight.”)

11