The Minstrels

Introduction

The Minstrel or Bard is an enigmatic character, skilled in the arts of songs, story-telling, dramatics and music. Bards are powerful public speakers, and have the ability to move an audience to action with the power of their word. With their instruments, they are able to weave songs of great potency and enchantments of lasting moment.

The modern era of the Bards Guild was founded in the late seventh century by Malwen the Songmistress. Her traditions of a benevolent guild have been carried ever since by the members of this illustrious and proud fellowship. The Bards Guild make their home on the east bank of the city of Mercinae in a large complex near the Cathedral. They maintain close ties with the city council and often come to the aid of the citizens of Mercinae in times of need. During peace-time the Bards travel the land giving aid and succour to the needy, spreading their ideals of harmony and altruism.

Words from Malwen, the first guildmaster

The Bards are a tricky profession, few master their wily skill set. Mastery requires cunning and experimentation rather than diligent preparation and simple method as in most professions. Timing is all-important but the rewards for competence are great, the bardic skills are second to none.

Words from Axel, the current guildmaster

A soft voice finds its way to your ear, compelling you toward action. A melody sings in your blood, forcing you forward with its intoxicating beat. A Minstrel holds herself motionless, preparing an illusory dramatic to trick the eye.

The power of a single word. The magic in a single note. The enchantment captured in a single breath

These are the weapons of the Minstrel, holding sway over the lesser minds of Avalon.

Wit. Determination. Will

The ability to outsmart, out-do and ultimately bind their foes with their indomitable spirit (all with amazing flair and style, of course) are the trademarks of their trade.

Minstrels are essentially neutral, known to network with people of all creeds across the land, for the nature of their work often brings them out into the world. They embrace their skills and their friends with a fierce bravado: stunning the multitudes with their antics, filling hushed halls with laughter and drawing a crowd at every tavern in the land. But a Minstrel is not an enemy to be trifled with, for though they may not often choose to exercise their Craft, the resulting defeat will be long reme mbered by any foe.

Be warned! The Minstrel's path is not an easy one to take. It requires intensive study and impeccable timing. But ultimately a hard road is often the most rewarding. The Minstrel's Craft, though intense, is not without reprieve. The Minstrels are a bawdy bunch and indeed, it is rare to find a Minstrel that takes himself too seriously (or that stays sober). Like many Parrian guilds, they are fiercely passionate and passionately fierce. Then they crack fart jokes. Such is the way of the Minstrel: cunning , dashing and always the life of the party.

Guild Specialist Skills

Location

The front door of the guild can be found on Verger's Way not far from the junction with Middle Street near the Seagull Inn.