2. Level 5 & 8: Gerard's Prowl

This is an overarching plot point because it is occurring continuously until completed by stopping Gerard. It can be interwoven throughout other plot points as it allows the game master flexibility when it will pop up in the campaign.

There are unique bandits for special interactions with the party that allow them to make connections to Gerard and the Jade Daggers. Only use the unique bandits when you want to advance this plot points story. Otherwise, standard bandits should be used.

While traveling, Gerard sends his henchmen to scout or test the party's combat skills. There are never any signs of where the henchmen come from, as they are random bandit groups Gerard has paid off to assist him.

Arthur, Will, and Kinder had no clue how deep Gerard’s pockets are and how many connections he has. Gerard is one of the highest members of The Jade Daggers without being in the ruling family. He’s always been able to come and go as he pleases if he continues to contribute. This, and being his best friend, is the reason Herbert Jade agreed to help him take out the party.

The henchmen have names, personalities, and bonds with each other. If losing, they will try to send one of them off to report back while the others avenge their brethren or they will all flee to get revenge in the future.

First Attack – Herbert's Gang

Level: 5

Number of Bandits: Four

When the party reaches level five, Gerard will send Herbert’s Gang after them with the instructions to leave Arthur and Will alive. The attack can happen anytime the game master chooses, but it is recommended while the party is traveling or resting. This can be in a city or wilderness. It is up to the game master.

Final Attack - Gereard's Squad

Level: 8

Number of Bandits: Four

After his first attack fails, Gerard takes matters into his own hands. He gets together with his trusted scouts and attacks the party when they reach level eight.

Besides joining his scouts to attack the party at level eight, Gerard sends them out to watch the party between level five and eight. There are four scouts who use message birds (pigeons) to send information to Gerard. They are not to engage with the party unless absolutely necessary. If they must engage, they are to withdraw as fast as possible. Anyone caught is to be killed before any info can be given. This includes ending their own lives, which is why Gerard recruited them.

The attack can happen when the game master chooses, but it is recommended to use the scenario if possible.

A Royal Request

The reputation of the party has grown. So much so that a royal page has been sent to find them for a special mission. The page will explain that the royal family urgently needs their aid to rescue the nephew of the Empress. He often runs off to play in the wilds, but this time he has gone to the ruins of Avac Keep in search of a family artifact to impress the Empress.

The Avac Keep has been abandoned since the coastal forest was flooded. Since then, the keep has become home to all different creatures.

The mission is made up as the page is a member of the Jade Daggers. Gerard and his scouts are waiting in hiding for the party to arrive.