The Only Good Bandit {Open, 4 slots}

[Hadrian]

[OOC: My posts will be divided into controlling the actions of Hadrian and controlling the NPC bandits. For the purposes of this thread, participants may not control NPCs (except for trivial things). Other than that, normal rules apply.]

The territory of Laus is in turmoil after the rising of the Dead, an event which has scarred the lives of many. However, what is worse is the rise in crime that has occurred as a result of the unholy chaos. One group of bandits, the Harrows, are particularly unsavoury. Under the guidance of their leader, a Swordsmaster named Helix, this group have burned and pillaged several towns in the area. Women and children are kept as slaves, while the men are forced to join the raiding parties. Failure to comply means death.

However, one of these bandits, a single man by the name of Maxwell, has summoned the courage to begin writing letters to his friend Hadrian, who stayed with him in his village for a while. In these letters are details of the bandits' movements, giving Hadrian time to help protect and evacuate villages. But, things have taken a turn for the worse. Helix has begun to execute women and children, saying he will not stop until the traitor comes forward. Maxwell, too terrified of the consequences of handing himself in, sent a final letter to Hadrian, a plea for help, along with a map of the bandit's stronghold. Hadrian immediately proceeded to the local village, and has begun to recruit a small group of mercenaries to raid the stronghold, and put an end to Helix's reign of terror.

---

Hadrian hurriedly ran into the bar, flinging open the door and slamming his hand down on the counter. The resulting feedback shook his frail body, but he didn't care. Any delay meant more innocent women and children were facing their deaths. Speaking as loud as he possibly could, he addressed everyone in the small tavern, who had fallen silent at his entrance. "I need a small... group to help... me raid the Harrow Bandit... stronghold. There... isn't much time. I'll explain to those... the situation... on the way." he said, the words barely audible between his panting as he tried to regain breath.

He desperately needed help, but whether he would get it or not was going to be decided by the patrons of this tavern.

[Alos Ryndoa]

Alos put his drink down and turned his head toward the commotion. He sees a young man clad in robes, panting and standing in the doorway.

"What's this about mercenaries? Something about bandits?"

He sees the desperate look on the man's face and feels pity for him. Either way, it had been a while since he'd seen combat, and he needed to keep his skills sharp.

"You know what? I'll help you out. You can count on my lance."

He pays for his drink and stands up, walking over to where Hadrian was.

"Will anyone else join us?"

It might just be the liquor, but Alos had a feeling in his gut telling him that he should help.

[Ryuzaki]

In a dark corner of the tavern stood a cloaked and hooded man, silently watching and waiting. In his right hand was a single coin, which he idly turned over and over with his fingers. Ryuzaki was on the move again; he had some time before he'd have to meet Rogus back in Santaruz. A nice opportunity for some sightseeing... Some deceiving... Some stealing... And of course, plenty of killing. Ah, yes. But this barren wasteland seemed devoid of any challenge or interest. The people were too easy to swindle and rob; their chests were undefended and their locks second-class. And in the way of killing... He'd found no victims. No nobles to execute; no villains to dismember. Nothing. What a pitiful place.

And then that fanatic showed up. Obviously some uprighteous 'oh no the village will be burned' sort of monk. Looked like he was in a rush... and he needed 'help'.

Perfect.

The thief walked over, his face hidden and his body shrouded by his midnight blue cloak. Only visible were his two scythes, strapped to his back, a sword with a jagged crack running down the length of its blade, and his hand, the coin still moving through his fingers.

"I assume you will pay for this venture... Correct? I will take twenty percent of any spoils after the conclusion of your raid, and of course, anything that I can get my hands on will become mine. Without question."

The figure gave a brief chuckle and then extended its right hand, from which the coin seemed to have mysteriously disappeared.

"If you're going to be raiding a stronghold, as you claim... You'll need someone of my caliber. Doors are no issue for me... Locks hold no challenge. And of course, I can dispense of any or all opposition. My blades are not for show.

Pleased to make your acquaintance, man of the cloth. You may call me Near."

[Alos Ryndoa]

Alos smiles brightly. He can tell that this is a man who is a force to be reckoned with.
Note to self- don't get on his bad side.
He pats Near on the shoulder and laughs.
"Quit taking yourself so seriously! I'm Alos, pleasure to meet you!"
He looks around the pub trying to spot any other capable fighters.
"Who else wants in on this?" he yells.

[Dietrich Landrik]

Landrik grunted as his left side caused him pain, but he had learned to ignore it for the most part. It was mostly healed, but a full recovery still had to take place. The liquor he had in his right hand really took off the edge. The tavern was pretty packed with others looking to do the same. Laus had no shortage of troubles and people looking to make a living off of trouble. While Landrik was in the tavern to rest, he was ultimately here to make a coin. Berg, a stout fellow, returned to the blonde man at the table they sat at with three beers in hand. Landrik looked at the tall ale and considered it a challenge as he wasn't even half-way through his whiskey. Downing the strong drink and quivering from its effect, he grabbed two of the ales and passed one to Fuchs, a slender and quiet guy with a handsome face.

The three were momentarily silent as they took a sip from their Ale and relaxed in their seats. Of course someone had to burst into the tavern and start ranting and raving out of breath. Something about bandits? The guy must be clueless to think that none of them could be in the tavern right now. Despite this, two men were already coming up to join him. If they were going to get a cut, they needed to jump on this. "No time. Let's go." he ordered to his comrades, downing the ale as quickly as he could.

Berg chimed in, looking at the quality of men that were signing on. "You can't be serious, are you?" he asked, also chugging his ale with contempt. Fuchs was impartial and continued to sip on his beer.

"Money is money, Berg. This could turn out to be just what we needed. I'd rather not wait around." he mentioned, tossing his leather curiass on and grabbing his sword belt. Berg just shook his head as he grabbed his bow and quiver, leaving the empty glass on the table. Fuchs was already suited up and walked forward with his shield on his back and his halberd in hand. How was he able to finish his beer so quickly?

As much as he knew he may regret it, Landrik walked up towards the trio and held his sword belt up in front of him showing that he was armed. "We'll fight for coin. Smacking around some bandits is even better. My name is Dietrich Landrik. This is Colton Berg and the other one is Alwin Fuchs." he introduced himself.

[Hadrian]

[OOC: If anyone else wants to join, feel free to do so. There is one slot left]

The friendly soldier with his lance, the thief with his twin scythes, the mercenary with his blade and comrades, and himself. Hadrian felt content with the group, they were more than capable of handling it. "Let's move out, we really have no time to waste. You may call me Hadrian." His breath having returned, Hadrian led the group out of the tavern door. And so they began their trek to the Stronghold, an old abandoned fort named Fort Canis. From Maxwell's letters, Hadrian got the impression that the fort was well built and well defended. But with his group, he didn't expect too much of a problem.

As they walked, he turned to Near and Dieter, addressing their earlier concerns regarding payment. "As for money, you can keep whatever you find. I have no interest in the gold these bandits have amassed." He was disappointed, but couldn't really expect anymore from the thief. Everyone had to make a living. They then approached the hill upon which Fort Canis stood. It wasn't much other than a single tower, with a small hall jutting out of the base. No doubt Helix was at the very top. Turning to his comrades, Hadrian explained the situation, how the bandits operated, how he had received information, and how now everyone there was at risk.

"Most of these bandits are unwilling volunteers, and so they'll disband if Helix is killed. So refrain from killing the bandits if possible. Also, protect any women and children you come across, they have no place in this battle." And with that, Hadrian returned to ascending the steep hill. With every step, he felt his body grow weaker. He wasn't built for this type of work. He began to sway, and so pulled his healing staff out to support him. "Just... one minute." he panted, his body failing hi. Cursing himself silently, he tried his best to go on, but still needed the rest. After taking a short break, they continued on, Hadrian taking care not to overexert himself.

[OOC: Use this chance to talk to other members of the group, and get to know each other.]

[Ryuzaki]

As the man rushed out, the thief kept pace easily, his hand on his blade as he followed the robed man. Hearing him, Ryu's smile grew wider and he shook his head slightly in disbelief. He had... no interest in gold? Well, well... And there it was. A tower, huh. What a sorry excuse for a stronghold. Hearing Hadrian's requests, the thief scoffed.

"Are you out of your mind, man of the cloth? These are bandits. They will cut us down, yet you tell us to keep them alive? Are you mad? Women and children are one thing. Sparing bandits... Listen. The world is not all faith and miracles, Hadrian. Sometimes, people have to get hurt. If you will persevere to this course of folly... I'll disable them. You can use your glowrod there to patch them up afterward. But telling us to march into a stronghold to raid without killing bandits strikes me as an extremely idiotic idea."

Exacerbating the situation was their team. A man of the cloth who couldn't run without losing his breath... An overly friendly soldier... Ick. At least he knew something about Landrik and his lackeys. He remembered them well from the Bael disaster.

"So. We kill Helix and then everybody rejoices, huh? Who is this Helix, how do we identify him, and, most importantly, where is he? Once I know these things, I'll be off. If you'd like, I can create a diversion. Believe me, I can more than handle these scum."

Ryu's hand had strayed down to his strange Killing Edge, his fingers caressing the blade and its deadly secret as he smiled from under his hood.

"Whenever you're ready..."

[Alos Ryndoa]

"Sorry Hadrian, but I'm inclined to agree with Near. I'm gonna defend myself, and I can't make any promises as far as casualties go."
He looks over to Near.
"That doesn't mean we should go around indiscriminately killing innocent men. I've heard about these bandits, and most of them are forced into it. Hell, we can probably get a few of them over to our side!"
He pulls a flask out of his bag and takes a sip, offering some to his new comrades.

[Dietrich Landrik]

The bandit stronghold was the old fort he had seen before, which more or less had a prominent tower that could see around for miles since it was at the top of the hill. By the good graces of St. Elimine they weren't spotted as they scaled the large and steep hill. The man who strung them along, Hadrian, ran out of breath trying to climb up the summit. To be fair, Berg needed the rests too since there was more weight he was lugging. That gut would be the end of him one day. "You'll have an easier time downhill, Berg. Just think of it. Rolling, tumbling, and a few broken trees... I can't wait to see it." Fuchs teased, having no issue himself. Landrik was doing alright, but he tried not to use his left arm to brace himself.

It took Berg a little while, but he recognized the bright-haired man that he was suspicious of during the Nabatan trek that didn't really work out because of the Bael ambush. He didn't say anything because he had seen how he managed to fend off the Bael quite well. He didn't doubt his combat skills. He really didn't care to bring anything up as long as he stayed his distance a bit. He'd rather the three leave with all their belongings and hopefully some more from the low-lives that lived up here.

Landrik refused the drink offered to him by the naive man in the red armor. He already had enough to drink and he didn't want to be stumbling into sword thrusts. "I wouldn't trust them even if they begged to join our side. It's a good way to get a dagger in your back. At best, disarm them, have them drop their equipment belts, and toss them my way. I can keep them rounded up with the help of Berg here. He's quite the shot, even if it looks like he should be swinging an axe. Fuchs doesn't say much, but he's got a reputation for having an eye watching your back and has stepped in to save the both of us many times." It was weird complimenting them, but he needed them to trust they were competent if anything were to get done. The swordsman rested his hand on the hilt of his sword, waiting for them to continue. "Near, is it? I trust you to do your own thing. We'll fill in the gaps and clean up." He wasn't sure of how many were in there, but too many and they'd have to just leave it as "Kill Helix and dip on out".

[Hadrian]

Hadrian held up his hand to silence the group, and pulled one of Maxwell's letters from his pocket. "The bandits have set up a regular perimeter patrol at the edge of the woods, which we want to avoid if we want to get in there undetected. However, the approach to the fort is completely bare, so even if we get past them we'll probably be spotted heading towards the fort. Near, would it be possible for you to circle around and distract the patrol on the other side of the tower, and then make your own way in? With the tower and hall between us and them, they shouldn't be able to see us make our approach. I have no doubt that you'll then be able to make your own way in.

The bandits have a few mages with them, and that's how they communicate. A mage uses the Thunder magic to create a beam of light indicating there's been an intrusion. The others then gather at that point and deal with the intruder. As far as I know, that's the only mage in the perimeter guard, however my source didn't detail the number of magic users inside the fort." Hadrian paused for breath, talking for such long periods of time wore him out considerably. It was all important stuff though, and could mean the difference between success and failure for the group. "Does anyone have any alternate suggestions? As men who are obviously accustomed to battle, I believe you probably have more experience with these raids than I do."

[Ryuzaki]

"I'm fine with that plan. My only concern is the obvious nature of the ruse... The second they move after me, you need to move. Fast. No breaks, no comfortable paces. You need to be inside as quickly as you can. Which leads me to another point of concern... How will you open the door?"

Moving away from the group, the thief chuckled as he drew his two scythes, spinning them in his hands as he began to walk towards the fringe of the woods.

"Well, good luck, man of the cloth. Hopefully I'll see you inside, mmm?

And one last piece of advice. Don't die."

Turning his back, Ryuzaki walked calmly through the thinning woods and then out onto the grassy meadow surrounding the fort. There it stood, tall and bleak. Shaking his head in disappointment at his employer's skill, the thief turned his attention to his own job. Walking through the center of the meadow, the thief began to move in an arc towards the far side of the structure.

"Come," the thief whispered. "Come, so that I may destroy you... I shall rip and rend and tear. Behold the art of blood."

[Alos Ryndoa]

"He's right, you know. We need to be fast, and we need to figure out a way to get in."
Alos grips his lance and steps forward, looking back at the Bishop and Sellswords.
"Speaking of moving fast... Dietrich, are you alright? Don't think I haven't noticed the way you've been avoiding your left arm. I'm sharper than I look. And Hadrian, are you sure you're up for this? You don't seem to be in top shape."
He pulls out his flask and takes a large gulp.
"Ah well. If any of you get into trouble don't hesitate to call on me. Dietrich, would you happen to know a way to break in?"

[Dietrich Landrik]

The man of the cloth had the gall to pull together a bunch of mercenaries and hadn't even thought out a decent plan to actually get in the fort. The chances of success were slimming by the moment. After what was shown earlier, Berg and Hadrian could not make that sprint in the open and even if they did, they'd be practically useless once inside. The possibilities racing through his head, he turned to Hadrian with a serious expression. "There's no way I can make a suitable plan if I don't know what the place looks like. Now, something we can do is since you can't make that sort of sprint, you can run up to the walls and try and pick off the guards up on top. The same goes with my bowman here, Berg. We can only make a good judgement once we get close..."

The swordsman diverted his attention to Alos, who didn't seem too worried about the raid. "I don't use my left arm to run, so I'll be perfectly fine. My left side got impaled by a spider three times the size of a warhorse. I think if I can withstand that, I can easily pull my weight here. I'm hoping you can do the same." Dietrich said with worry and a bit defensively. Swords would be drawn and everything was on the line. It can be easy to forget just how easy it is for someone to lose their life with the tools they carried in their hands.

All this talk, but what worried him most was that Hadrian was the one with the healing staff. If they couldn't get him inside with the rest of them, things could go very wrong.

[Hadrian]

Hadrian listened to the men with their various additions to his own plan. Near seemed ok with the plan, but he was right about them needing to be quick. However, it was Dietrich who raised the most worrying concern. He and Berg wouldn't be fast enough, and would be in poor shape even if they did make it. This strategy needed to be re-thought. "On second thoughts, if Berg accompanies Near as part of the distraction team... He stopped himself before continuing. That would leave Berg and Near stranded outside once the distraction was complete, creating its own problems.

"Near, just how much of a distraction could you make?" By extending the time Near spent distracting the guards, the more time they would have to cover their ascent to the tower. "I can't imagine more than 10 on the perimeter guard, and you'll have the cover of the forest too. I don't imagine avoiding their attacks would be much of a problem for you... Perhaps if someone else accompanied you? By creating a larger distraction, we could draw some guards out of the fort as well..."

Pulling out a second letter, Hadrian handed it to Dietrich. On it was a crudely drawn map. Hadrian pointed to a small door, just jutting of the main hall."Fort Canis was originally a Church, and this door leads to the sacristy, a place where priests prepare for masses. I felt that was the most appropriate entry point," Hadrian raised an arm, pointing at the small door at the side of the hall, close to the base of the tower. A lone bandit sat by it, his axe lying on the ground. "So, what do people want to do? I'm no strategist, the reason I brought ye all along was for a bit of combat expertise."

[Ryuzaki]

OOC: Ryu's already moving out towards the guards (PM sent to Hadrian)
IC:

Hearing a noise, the thief ran back into the woods, crouching and quickly surveying the scene. Nothing. As he rose to resume his march, Ryu realized that the staff-bearer had never actually told him how many guards he'd be facing. That would be a slight problem... In any case, he was prepared. All he had to do was eliminate the mage before he could send the signal. Everyone else could be dispensed of after the fact. But... Where was the patrol?

Moving quickly but quietly, the thief moved around the structure, reaching the far side. No sign of a patrol. In fact, the tower seemed completely deserted. He heard no sounds coming from inside, no others, nothing. It was eerily silent. Shaking his head, the thief continued his search, staying hidden in the foliage as he arced around the tower.

Looking at the building as he moved, Ryu noticed a few entry points. A stained-glass window, which appeared to be boarded over. It would be loud, but he could smash through... There was a patch of roof that looked worn and cracked as well; he could easily pry it up and drop in. There were plenty of entry points, so that wasn't an issue. He just had to find the patrol. Where could it be?