Well, given the use for it, I suppose and arcane adaptation of Academic Priest wouldn't be half bad either (ToB Bladesinger homebrew, Int synergy with Warblade would be sexy), and would fit the concept well enough (the studious bard who lets his blade do the talking).
EDIT : Actually that fits the original concept of the bards in 2nd Ed being assassins (especially Dark Sun) and commanders, since they'd be one of the few with the knowledge to pull it off.