Masters of subterfuge and poisons, cutthroats aim to end their battles in one preemptive strike. A cutthroat could be a spy, criminal, bodyguard, assassin, or even a member of an elite behind-enemy-lines military unit. #### Bonus Expertise (3rd level) When you choose this archetype at 3rd level, you gain proficiency with Deception, and you gain an expertise die on Deception checks and checks made using a poisoner’s kit. For you, expertise dice in Deception and the poisoner’s kit can be upgraded from d8 to d10, exceeding the usual limit on [expertise dice](https://a5e.tools/node/77 "Click to view a local node.") . #### Master of Poisons (3rd level) Starting at 3rd level, you learn the recipe for a special injury poison called Blackblade. During a [short or long rest](https://a5e.tools/rules/resting "Click to view a local node.") , you can use your poisoner’s kit to brew a number of doses of this poison equal to your proficiency bonus without spending money or resources doing so. These poisons lose their effectiveness at the start of your next short or long rest. This poison can be applied to a weapon or piece of ammunition before combat or as a Cunning Action. The first time a [poisoned](https://a5e.tools/rules/conditions "Click to view a local node.") weapon or ammunition deals damage, it deals an additional 3d6 poison damage. #### Quick Strike (9th level) Starting at 9th level, your quick reflexes allow you to get the drop on opponents. You gain [advantage](https://a5e.tools/node/130 "Click to view a local node.") on initiative rolls. #### Hidden Resources (9th level) Starting at 9th level, when you hide a weapon or small object on your person, you make a Sleight of Hand check with [advantage](https://a5e.tools/node/130 "Click to view a local node.") to set the DC for finding it. #### Deceptive Mind (13th level) Starting at 13th level, when you succeed on a [saving throw](https://a5e.tools/rules/saving-throw "Click to view a local node.") against an effect that would read your mind, detect whether you are lying, or force you to tell the truth, you are aware of the magical intrusion and can present false thoughts or make a lie appear to be true. #### First Blood (17th level) You are exceptionally deadly against unprepared opponents. Starting at 17th level, you have [advantage](https://a5e.tools/node/130 "Click to view a local node.") on your first attack in combat if it’s against a creature who hasn’t taken a turn yet. If this attack hits, it is a critical hit.