Bard

Few among those who call themselves bards, minstrels, and jesters are true bards. Most are simply entertainers, although charisma and talent and social skills are all powers unto themselves.

But true bards have dedicated themselves so utterly to their calling that they have tapped into a deeper truth - that words and music can tap into a deep arcane wellspring of power, and can shape the world they live in. Some bards say, whether in jest or exaggeration or earnest belief, that the universe was spoken or sung into existence by powerful beings who vocalized primordial sounds of creation.

Bards are, to an individual, charismatic and multi-talented. It is not wise to underestimate them, as their talents are often unpredictable, and sometimes deadly even beyond the obvious danger posed by a charismatic, multitalented charmer with access to arcane power.

Bards, more than many professions, are influenced by the cultures in which they grew up and learned their trade. Saxangle bards are distinct from Franian bards and Tillian bards. A Drow bard is distinct from a tiefling bard or a human bard or wood elven bard or a Dwarf purist bard.

Different societies and cultures ascribe different roles and social status to bards.

Bards in Saxangle societies are highly valued. They travel between settlements and recite songs and poetry about the might of the gods or the great deeds of heroes who are touched by the gods. Their role is to provide every Saxangle an understanding of not only the gods and history, but also a working knowledge of the monsters and creatures that lurk in the forests. Bards are often sent along on quests because of this knowledge (and with the hope that the mission will generate a song that will praise a noble’s braveness/wisdom). Some may gain a position in the court of a powerful noble, and serve as both an entertainer and trusted advisor and agent.

Drow bards are also highly valued in Saxangle society, although still mistrusted, because they provide entertainment that goes beyond the traditional Saxangle bard.

Nico was a bard.