Bard

Entertainment in the Seven Kingdoms and beyond comes in many forms. People from all over Tol enjoy musicians, acrobats, theatrical actors, performing animals, and many other divertissements. Amongst these, however, there are some who perform by using the arcane power inherent in words and music. They can use their words, music, and other performance to defeat enemies, overcome obstacles, heal their companions, and aid their allies. These exemplary performers have earned the title Bard.

Some say that the music that Bards invoke is the very Music of the Spheres, the celestial harmony created by the Gods at the dawn of the world. Opponents of this theory point out that bards are not linked to divine power and suggest instead that all words and music, with their cadences, formulae, and mathematical progressions, are inherently arcane in nature. Bards don’t join the argument either way; they prefer to simply be on their way, enjoy their adventures, and earn fame and glory in the meantime.

Although there are numerous bardic "Colleges" (though few of them have a formal location to study at and are, instead, a tradition passed down from master to student), all of them are marked by the ability to stimulate Pneuma to inspire their fellow heroes to great deeds.

All known cultures of Tol have a bardic tradition. Whether it be the fiddlers of Dalenshire, the harpers of Tavanion, or the drummers of Gristamere, many Bards exhibit similar powers and abilities, even if their chosen performance and instruments vary.

Type

Entertainment