Merchant Banker (ranged)

Banks are generally found in cities large enough to support several artisans practicing the same trade and have membership in the guilds. However, your bank might instead be a loose network of banks who each work in a different village within a larger realm. Employment at a bank brings with it a membership in a merchant guild in order to promote your line of business. Work with your DM to determine the nature of your bank.

As an established and respected member of a bank, you can rely on certain benefits that membership provides. Your fellow bank and guild members will provide you with lodging and food if necessary, and pay for your funeral if needed. In some cities and towns, a guildhall offers a central place to meet other members of your profession, which can be a good place to meet potential patrons, allies, or hirelings.

Banks often wield tremendous political power. If you are accused of a crime, your bank will support you if a good case can be made for your innocence or the crime is justifiable. You can also gain access to powerful political figures through the bank, if you are a member in good standing. Such connections might require the donation of money or magic items to the bank’s coffers.

You must pay dues of 5 gp per month to the guild you join. If you miss payments, you must make up back dues to remain in the guild’s good graces.

Instead of working in the bank offices, you might specialize in adventurers. You don’t just handle the loans but assist in the adventurer for a larger share of the spoils. Your bank might be a large merchant consortium (or family) with interests across the region. Perhaps you manage caravans that transport goods from one place to another, by ship, wagon, or caravan. In some ways, the traveling loan officer’s life lends itself to adventure far more than the life of a regular bank employee.

Rather than proficiency with artisan’s tools, you might be proficient with navigator’s tools or an additional language. And instead of artisan’s tools, you can start with a 2 draft horses and a wagon.