New Bard to the server and the game looking for some advice

[Syllibus]

Hi all,

The last the I played EQ was on live back in '09 after getting a chance to try on Steam, didn't really grab me after coming from years of WoW and how modern MMOs handle, and the whole merc thing really puts me off.

Now I'm looking for something a little (not so little) more in-depth and decided on classic EQ. Was supposed to be playing with the husband but after some time bumming around killing stuff, we found it just isn't the game for him. So, I'll be venturing forth alone.

I picked Bard as my main class since I love the idea of killing stuff with song and music, and I hear they can be quite powerful albeit hard for new players to pick up. I'm fine with a challenge.

My questions are - is there anything I should be looking out for in terms of places to level / find groups? I'm a Half-Elf (lvl 2) and started in Kelethin, and this morning found out about the mail quest from Felwithe which was great as I could afford my level 2 spell. I've also been holding on to my Bone Chips as I hear they're a good way to make some coin in the lower levels, although I'm not sure if I'm supposed to be selling these to players or NPCs somewhere.

Any advice would be appreciated! I'm not looking for handouts or quick fast-tracks to getting powerful gear or anything, as I feel like that would cheapen the experience a bit. Just some general tips, like if I should be venturing out to different zones, etc. I'm still not sure how I should be spending my "practice" skill points. I put one into Sense Heading but am unsure about the rest.

Thanks!