Bard

Bards are renowned for being enigmatic performers, excellent storytellers, and the life of the party. In most circumstances, this is correct. A bard, on the other hand, is a skilled, magical, and, most importantly, knowledgeable individual.

Bards are one of the most difficult classes to master because they require a diverse set of techniques, abilities, and knowledge to perform and tell stories. As adventurers, they play an important role in assisting their team, motivating allies, and creating distractions when necessary.

People choose to be bards for a variety of reasons, including fame, glory, and the opportunity to observe and narrate heroic stories. Whatever their purpose, bards are a valuable addition to any group, appreciated for their skills, wisdom, and fascinating performances.

Career

Qualifications

Many believe that becoming a bard is easy—that all you need is a winning personality and a little musical talent. Sorry to say, but that’s only enough to make you a dancer, actor, or musician. A bard is much more than that.

Being a bard isn’t about natural talent; it’s about the willingness to learn a vast array of skills, endure rigorous studies, and sometimes face uncomfortable situations. While having a sharp memory, adaptable talent, and the ability to pick up new skills quickly can be helpful, they aren’t required. As long as you're willing to put in the sweat and tears, you can learn, grow, and truly become a bard.

Responsibilities

Bards in an adventuring party are often responsible for a variety of tasks. If they have healing or support magic, they act as a backup to the party's arcane caster or healer. However, one of a bard's most recognized assets is their extensive library of esoteric and seemingly random knowledge.

Most bards specialize in various areas, including storytelling and performance, to bring their music and tales to life. Some bards are more like archaeologists than actors, delving into history and forgotten tales. Others excel at practical skills, making them important as the party's representative—using charm, diversion, and even well-placed insults to manage situations. Their skills frequently expand to more hands-on activities such as pickpocketing, lockpicking, and other valuable trades.

No two bards are alike, but they all possess an element of unpredictability. Get to know your bard, and be prepared for surprises—you never know what a bard is truly capable of.

Bards Magic

The magic of bards is distinct from that of ordinary arcane users such as wizards. Instead of methodically memorizing spell formulas, bards focus their mana on the wavelengths of a school's magic and elemental type that they intend to use. They then channel this energy through their instrument or vocal chords, creating magic during their performance.

To cast a spell, a bard must produce the appropriate wavelengths via song or speech, allowing them to access and manipulate magical power. To completely activate their effects, certain spells require both sonic waves and bodily actions or gestures.


Cover image: by Valcin (Marc Zipper)

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