Blue
Ravenous Bugblatter Beast of Traal
Posted rewards and bounties. Capture the bandits to face trial, 10 gold a head and 200 gold for their tricky leader, Piers Plowsman. Slay the fearsome ogre of Grisham Pass, 500 gold.
Work for hire. Caravan guards - 10 gold upfront, 40 gold at the end if every wagon makes it, one share of loot of any bandits fought.
Have them part of an organization (knighthood, religious order, etc.) that takes care of their upkeep and they don't actually need gold for anything. Heck, they may be expected to tithe anything they do get, but as their renown grows they will become custodians of some of the rellcs (read: magic items) of the order.
Make one or more of the characters noble who's holding will provide a reasonable stipend but he also has responsibilities both up and down the line. And of course can expect hospitality for him and his retinue at any other noble house.
Work for hire. Caravan guards - 10 gold upfront, 40 gold at the end if every wagon makes it, one share of loot of any bandits fought.
Have them part of an organization (knighthood, religious order, etc.) that takes care of their upkeep and they don't actually need gold for anything. Heck, they may be expected to tithe anything they do get, but as their renown grows they will become custodians of some of the rellcs (read: magic items) of the order.
Make one or more of the characters noble who's holding will provide a reasonable stipend but he also has responsibilities both up and down the line. And of course can expect hospitality for him and his retinue at any other noble house.