Burglars are thieves who spend years developing their skills in stealth, slipping into homes, slinking through shadows, all while leaving no trace they were ever even there. Cat Burglars are the elite of the criminal underworld, figures whose exploits take on a life of their own, and whose skills are highly sought after. Some content themselves with "window fishing," using telescopic poles to snatch valuables through windows -- or a simple smash-and-grab. Whatever their approach, all burglars live by a simple motto: get in, get stuff, get out, get gone.[1a]
Being a good burglar takes time and patience. A thief may spend weeks casing a joint, finding the best moment to strike. Even then, getting inside is only the beginning. Guards, traps, dogs... the richer the target, the more security they can afford. Many thieves consider burgling the wealthy more trouble than it's worth, preferring to break into smaller businesses and helping themselves to the money box.[1a]
However, no one can deny the glory and profit to be won in escaping with the jewels of the nobility. These criminals become celebrities among those in the know, which isn't always a good thing -- when the wanted posters start appearing, new pastures beckon.[1a]
Burglars can come from any walk of life, whether starting out as low-level members of a criminal gang, or bored nobles seeking a thrill. Many maintain a legitimate trade or persona behind which they hide their activities. This protects them from the watch's attention and provides a means to inspect their mark's property. Often the first warning a victim gets is a helpful artisan turning up at their house, offering to fix the roof.[1a]
There are places in the Old World with particularly bad reputations for being preyed upon by thieves: Bordeleaux, Miragliano, and Marienburg, but burglars still work in every town and city.[1a]