Cant

The Cant is a special condition born to some, making them naturally gifted at the Higher Magics.
The Cant is a vocal quality that presents itself during adolescence, though experts and charlatans alike claim they can predict its potential in a child. Those bearing the Cant, whether magicians or kings or common peddlers, are said to have the gift of persuasion. They can win arguments, inspire armies, defend the weak with words alone. Or, they can swindle, they can manipulate, and they can level abuse on others while never raising a hand.
It is widely assumed that the Empresses of the Old Orckid Empire were all possessed of the Cant, and that their unique understanding of this gift allowed them to manipulate the Higher Magics and the world around them in ways that have eluded modern study. This belief has led many to suspect the Cant is related to one's blood somehow, and modern wizards are rumored to steal children in the night, hoping to breed the Cant back into power.
Exactly what the Cant is, has oft been a subject of debate. To some, anyone with a pleasing or unusual voice might be said to possess the Cant. Other spellers or even wizards will insist the Cant cannot be heard, that it is some essence of the voice below the perception of common mortals.
As is, the Cant is more often a simple turn of phrase used to describe a persuasive or dynamic person.

Type

Divine

Origin

Magical

Rarity

Rare