- Cypher: Training in identifying, deciphering, and using secret writing codes. Some cyphers are clearly coded communications that may require a literary key of some kind to unlock, others are messages carefully disguised within other writings.
- High Gothic: Familiarity with the formal language of the Imperium, spoken only in rarefied circles. Knowledge of High Gothic is held within the various branches of the Imperium, the Adeptus Mechanicus, and some older Noble Houses. The eldest histories of the Imperium, along with its most ancient secrets, are often preserved within datavaults in High Gothic.
- Forbidden (Various, Restricted): Those possessed of this skill understand a language or form of communication that is either highly restricted or prohibited within the Imperium. With few exceptions, it is considered heretical to know the languages of aliens; however, the Sisters of the Orders Dialogus are frequently granted special dispensation from the Ecclesiarchy to learn such in pursuit of their duties. Some xenos languages, such as the Kroot's, are unpronounceable by a Human tongue without augmentation.
While some languages are considered too profane to speak, others are too holy for common knowledge. The Lingua-technis of the Adeptus Mechanicus is a forbidden language that few outside their order have ever learned, in part, because it is based on binary machine code that all but the most gifted individuals require cybernetic implants to speak. Thoughtmark, the form of sign language used by the Anathema Psykana, is also known to very few outsiders. Each Forbidden Language requires taking a corresponding Forbidden Knowledge Talent in order to learn it.
Linguistics measures the character’s ability to understand and translate written and spoken languages. Those who are more adept at this skill are more fluent in the languages they know and may also know a broader range of tongues. Individuals study languages, their history, and their tendencies toward drift. This improves their proficiency with the languages they use every day. It also helps them decipher localised changes and historic inconsistencies to reveal the author’s intent. That knowledge is critical for reconciling confusing missives and decoding complex cyphers. All citizens of the Imperium are automatically fluent in spoken Low Gothic.