There are three levels of proficiency in any giving language.
- Basic: You can discuss the weather and order a drink or ask for directions in this language. Anything else is beyond you, and Charisma checks are made with disadvantage if using this language. (1 point)
- Fluent: You can make alliances, chat someone up and get by in almost all day-to-day situations. (2 points)
- Scholarly: You can read ancient, academic or highly specialist texts in this language and understand them. Think reading Foucault in the original French. Only ‘scholarly’ classes (Wizard, Cleric, Warlock, Bard) or those with a relevant background (Scholar, Sage etc) may choose this option. (3 points)
Each character gets 10 points + 2x INT Modifier.
You’re automatically fluent in your mother-tongue. You can spend them as you wish - be able to ask for directions in any region or be an expert in Elvish and Dwarven?
To fix the absurdity of street-rats gibbering away in conversational Draconic, exotic languages (Abyssal, Infernal etc) costs double points.