The Bard is the first class in the book, and provides a great example of the tone of the setting. Bards are able to demoralize opponents (a.k.a. deal nonlethal damage) at range with their music, or replenish allies' courage (which serves as the hitpoints for the system). The bard is also equipped to resolve conflicts before they even begin with a strong suite of interpersonal skills.
The Bard starts the game with an instrument corresponding to their specialty - stringed instruments are more effective at healing, percussion instruments are better at demoralizing foes, and wind instruments are better at inspire checks (which covers a few different abilities that buff allies).
As they level, Bards gain powerful healing and buffing abilities, can sway the emotion of entire crowds, or even creating fourth wall breaking effects (like 'teleporting' through the power of a travel montage).
