Re: [DL] The Pride O' Texas

[Derek Carmichael <dcarmichael@apple.com>]

> On 6/2/02 9:56 PM, "Matthew S Pulido" <talison@netnitco.net> wrote:

> Got a question for you Marshals out there.
> 
> I've been wanting to introduce a Ranger NPC into my group for a while. We
> had a Ranger PC once. He died rather tragically (but went down fightin like
> the Texas Bad Ass he was).
> 
> The problem is that my Posse isn't connected to any organization. A Ranger
> in their midst would be someone with rank, authority, and orders to follow.
> The last Ranger had missions to do. The Characters were always looking for
> adventure and would go along with him. But most of the time the Ranger would
> have to deputize them or reimburse their expenses to get them to go along.
> 
> So how do other Marshals handle a group with only one Ranger or Lawman? How
> do your Posses justify going along with or listening to a Ranger? Was the
> Ranger just along for the ride and hoped the group would lead him to
> situations where he would be needed? Were your characters (like mine)
> frequently deputized or hired as troubleshooters by the Rangers?

Well, I haven't had to do this first hand, but I've some ideas for handling
the situation.

Does the Ranger have to be in charge?  Maybe he or she is on administrative
leave and just hooks up with the posse to pass the time? (And of course
still carry out his or her sworn duty!)  The nature of the leave could be
several stories in and of themselves.

If the posse is well established (i.e. has some fame/notoriety) and contains
a character with an arcane background (especially Harrowed or Huckster)
perhaps the Ranger has been instructed to keep tabs on said character(s)?

Perhaps the Ranger has some secret mission (which is not time sensitive)
tagging along with the posse (at least initially) is just a cover?

Maybe the Ranger has a connection (familial, debt, etc.) with one of the
characters?

Maybe the Ranger is on vacation?

Maybe the Ranger is wanted by the Rangers and has escaped custody to prove
his or her innocence?

Hopefully that gives you some ideas.

Take care,

Derek