Law of the Thief

The Law of the Thief is a set of maxims taught as acronyms to new thieves. It is reinforced through a set of tavern songs and ballads. While the Law is expressly taught to members of thieves guild, they are also understood by all Hedge Thieves and the Crooked by overhearing thieves cant in common places.

TINHAT – First Law: There Is No Honor Among Thieves.

All thieves are aware that they cannot trust each other. It stands to reason that if a person is willing to steal, lie, or cheat outsiders, they’ll eventually do the same to their fellows. This law also acknowledges that loyalty in crime is an illusion — alliances in the trades tend to break down when greed, self-preservation, or betrayal becomes more profitable. This is reinforced by the Ballad of the Iron Vault. However, it must be noted that betrayal and cheating will never mean working with authorities or cackling. That is the role of the rat and there is never a being worse than a rat.

ALFAFL – Second Law: Always Look For A Free Lunch. 

This maxim points out that a thief is never off-duty. There is always information to be had and an angle to play. By being alert and paying attention, a diligent man in the trade can always discover a new source of income, and sometimes in the most unlikely of places. An oft-sung song is that of Thorne Blackwyd and the Chair which illustrates this point. 

SHASHOSHOO – Third Law: Shear A Sheep Often, Skin Him Only Once. 

This maxim points out that thieves need honest people who work and create wealth. A sheep grows its wool back, but taking its skin will kill it. That is, a good thief never takes everything. It is better to take 10 gold pieces over 1000 visits rather than 1000 gold pieces all at once. Not only is the take higher, but stealing too much will mean additional security, reprisals and unwanted attention. The Ballad of Boney Filup reinforces this law

OBDIZ – Fourth Law: The Only Bad Dip Is Zero. 

A thieving job might require several participants and accomplices. Asking too much for minor participation is a good way not to get the job at all. Better to have a small profit than none at all. A jolly (or lookout) can't ask the same as the person who enters the vault. 

DALOFARING – Fifth Law: Doors Are Left Open For A Reason; It’s Never Good

This maxim tries to remind a thief that a mark that is too easy is often an ambush. While good and honest people sometimes leave doors unlocked or unwatched, it is an open invitation to run afoul of authorities.

ORFOC - Sixth Law: Only Rats Fear Old Candlejack. 

You might have good or bad luck on a job, but only those who inform on other thieves need to fear something worse than getting caught or being betrayed by a fellow thief. That is, being left to divine judgement without the intercession of the Candlejack.