Another special type of Companion, the Skald must be created by selecting a race, culture and profession as with other Companions. On top of the benefits provided by these factors, they come with the following:
- Bonus to Command checks (most snap and extended Actions) when they are present,
- Bonus to Acumen, Expertise, Guile, Presence or Strategy checks based on their profession
Finally each Skald must have a reason for following their Thane; this is represented by selecting one choice from the set of Ties. Each of the Ties skews results of the Faction's Actions thematically; they will also trigger a number of early- and mid- campaign quests in combination with the Opportunities chosen for your Thane.
Example: Kari is a Bard Skald so receives the Command bonus and a bonus to Presence. As her player has chosen Life Debt for her, this may trigger quests such as involving freeing enthralled slaves or helping a restless spirit finally move on.