Are Bards strong enough/sturdy enough to solo in melee combat?

[Saisu]

I’m not trying to be a storm cloud of negativity, just sharing firsthand experience so you can know what you’re in for. Based on you having a Paladin for a main, and wanting to “beat things to death with a bit of support magic on the side” you’re basically looking at either Shadow Knight or Ranger. Ranger will dish out much more damage, and should scratch your itch for dual wielding, double attacking, and gearing for melee damage.