WANDERING BANDS
In the wake of the Collapse, the mysterious global catastrophe that kicked off the Interregnum, a vast majority of Earth’s population disappeared without a trace. The world is a quiet place, now. But that doesn’t mean the Prophet is alone when they embark on expeditions. They might encounter Wandering Bands.
As you travel the world of the Interregnum, you will see other roaming bands like yours, walking the roads, making their way in the wilderness, or resting in what they think is a safe locale. They belong to distinct factions– they may be normal survivors like you, marauding bandits, or ruthless remnants of the US Army.
When a wandering band picks up your tracks, they’ll react to them. Some may flee your presence, but others will cease roaming and begin pursuing you. If you don’t want pursuers, it’s best to stay off the roads, out of sight in more difficult terrain. You may be able to shake the pursuit, but if they get too close, you’ll have to succeed at a Challenge to avoid confrontation.
But perhaps you don’t want to avoid confrontation?
Besides the obvious option of combat, you also have the opportunity to negotiate with wandering bands! A peaceful encounter might leave you both in better condition, or allow you to recruit them as new followers for your caravan.
However, your ability to negotiate is impacted by the band’s condition and hostility. A hale group may not be so easily swayed by gifts, and hostile groups may not give you the chance to negotiate at all. Of course, you can take hostile action unprovoked, but beware the consequences.
You can’t affect a group’s condition, but deft negotiation can reduce a group’s hostility towards you, potentially allowing for peaceful conversation with otherwise bloodthirsty bandits or soldiers. Being friendly with them can reveal things you might not have known otherwise.
Wandering bands are an ever-present, dynamic part of the world of the Interregnum, and should be accounted for whenever you’re on an expedition. It can be difficult looking out for them with your eyes alone, but if you happen to find some advanced technology, you’ll find your capabilities expanded in that regard… in exchange for a new way that tech-savvy foes can track you.