I recall an off hand remark some time ago about an alternate Bard based around a Signature Instrument.

I recall an off hand remark some time ago about an alternate Bard based around a Signature Instrument. Seemed like a cool idea, but I haven’t seen anything come of it, so here’s my first pass at the idea for your use and/or critiquing:

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Alternate class feature: A Bard may replace either Bardic Lore or Charming and Open with the following move. The move they choose to replace is added to their list of 2-5 Advanced Moves.

Signature Instrument

You carry a unique instrument, unlike any other. Tell us what it is, and how it looks; regardless of form, it has a base of 1 Weight for you.

Tell us how you acquired it, and from who:

* A gift.

* An inheritance.

* You stole it.

* You won it.

*_____________

Finally, pick two features:

* Weaponized: Your instrument serves as a weapon, strong as any other. Select a single range tag; if your instrument requires ammo, you gain 3 ammo (1 Weight)

* Cantankerous: You may roll +CON rather than +CHA for Arcane Art when playing your instrument.

* Bane: One type of creature (your choice) cannot stand the sounds your instrument produces.

* Siren: One type of creature (your choice) finds your instrument’s sounds especially soothing or enticing.

* Enchanted: Select a single rote or cantrip, and add it to the list of effects you may produce with Arcane Art.

* Armored: While you wield your instrument, you have +1 Armor. Increase your instrument’s weight by 1.

* Collapsible: Reduce your instrument’s weight by 1, and with a few moments’ work you can fold or otherwise transform it into a single alternate form, which may or may not be an instrument; describe it.

* Pristine: No matter how badly it’s treated, your instrument sheds rust, rot, water and other nastiness, and may still be played.