Daredevil bard questions

[Douglas Muir 406]

From the daredevil bard archetype:

Spoiler:

A daredevil can use her performance to bring out grace in the clumsiest allies. The daredevil and any allies who see her receive a +1 morale bonus on Reflex saving throws and a +2 competence bonus on Dexterity-based skill checks. Allies who move at least 10 feet during their turn gain a +1 dodge bonus to their Armor Class until the start of their next turn... This is a mind-affecting ability that uses visual components.

This ability replaces inspire courage.

So, questions arise. One, it appears the bard must undertake some sort of performance, as per Inspire Courage. (And as with Inspire Courage, it doesn't matter how good the performance is, or even if the bard has put any ranks in Perform. Go figure.) However, it does appear as if a sneaky bard could put ranks in Perform (Act) -- which specifically includes pantomime -- and mime out something that would give everyone the benefits. Correct?

Two, what's the time limit on this? Is it as long as the bard continues the performance, which can be done as a free action? Or do the benefits continue as long as the allies can see the bard, but end as soon as she is out of sight?

Thanks,

Doug M

[Sniggevert]

Douglas Muir 406 wrote:

From the daredevil bard archetype:

** spoiler omitted **

So, questions arise. One, it appears the bard must undertake some sort of performance, as per Inspire Courage. (And as with Inspire Courage, it doesn't matter how good the performance is, or even if the bard has put any ranks in Perform. Go figure.) However, it does appear as if a sneaky bard could put ranks in Perform (Act) -- which specifically includes pantomime -- and mime out something that would give everyone the benefits. Correct?

Two, what's the time limit on this? Is it as long as the bard continues the performance, which can be done as a free action? Or do the benefits continue as long as the allies can see the bard, but end as soon as she is out of sight?

Thanks,

Doug M

Correct, the bard has to make some sort of visual performance (Act works fine) to start the effect.

The time limit would be the same as the regular bardic performance ability. The bard has X number of rounds per day to use, and can use any or all of them on a single performance. The effect of the performance continues (as a free action), as long as the bard wishes to spend their daily uses of perform. Note, that as this is a visual performance, the ally gaining the benefit of the performance must be able to see the bard and remain in line of sight.