SRD:Decipher Script Skill

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Decipher Script (Int; Trained Only)

Check

You can decipher writing in an unfamiliar language or a message written in an incomplete or archaic form. The base DC is 20 for the simplest messages, 25 for standard texts, and 30 or higher for intricate, exotic, or very old writing.

If the check succeeds, you understand the general content of a piece of writing about one page long (or the equivalent). If the check fails, make a DC 5 Wisdom check to see if you avoid drawing a false conclusion about the text. (Success means that you do not draw a false conclusion; failure means that you do.)

Both the Decipher Script check and (if necessary) the Wisdom check are made secretly, so that you can’t tell whether the conclusion you draw is true or false.

Epic Check

You can decipher magic scrolls.

Task	DC
Decipher a written spell (such as a scroll) without using read magic. One try per day.	50 + 5 times spell level

Action

Deciphering the equivalent of a single page of script takes 1 minute (ten consecutive full-round actions).

Try Again

No.

Special

A character with the Diligent feat gets a +2 bonus on Decipher Script checks.

Synergy

If you have 5 or more ranks in Decipher Script, you get a +2 bonus on Use Magic Device checks involving scrolls.

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