Appendix II: Bards

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The Bard is not used as a separate class or progression path. The PHB bard depends on a multi-stage advancement model that does not align with Oath-Bound principles of earned capability and unified class identity.

Functions associated with bards—such as performance, lore, influence, and specialized knowledge—exist within other classes. These abilities arise through background, training, and social role, not through a distinct class or prescribed progression.

There is no fixed path by which a character becomes a bard. Similar roles emerge in play rather than being selected in advance.

Ignore all PHB bard class rules, including its multi-class progression requirements. Where bard-like abilities are relevant, adjudicate them using existing class capabilities, background, and situation.