Bandit

Running rampant in the Mucklands, bandits take to highways and countrysides stealing and terrorizing. If they weren't born into harsh lives of crime and violence, they are washouts of the corporate industrial system, having abandoned poor wages and terrible dental plans to pilfer their keep from others. Usually armed to the teeth with a variety of weapons and equipment, bandits are a force to be reckoned with. It's a good thing that many of them are locked in perpetual rivalries with each other.

Names: Skag, Drubber, Nice-Nice, Wheedle

abilities

Ambush

The first phase of a Conflict with bandits is always Combat, followed by Parley, Improvise, and Run.

Hidden

Archers

One third of a Group or Horde of bandits is made up of hidden archers. Perception Check to spot each archer, otherwise they can't be attacked.

Bandit Leader (C).

Has 2 Actions, +2 Attack, and inflicts 1d10 Dread.

social

Bandits love money, items, or anything of value. They avoid fighting if possible, but are not afraid to battle if they have numbers or feel slighted. Bandits loath haughtiness, disrespect, and flashy displays of intelligence. Unless sufficiently intimidated, they will rarely leave empty-handed. If bandits have a clear advantage but are persuaded one way or another to back off, they will likely follow the targets in secret, looking for an optimal time to steal or strike again.

combat

Bandits rely on ambush to get the upper hand. Some of their number attack with ranged weapons from hidden positions targeting the strongest-looking enemies, while others converge upon the weaker enemies with axes, swords and spears, etc. If present, a bandit leader barks orders from the back lines to coordinate the assault.

defeat

Bandits scatter when they see that a battle is not going their way or, if possible, take a hostage. If their leader is subdued, or when their numbers are reduced to half, they make a Mettle Check or else flee/surrender.

victory

When bandits are victorious, they take what they came for. They take anything shiny, but often overlook things like books or unassuming artifacts, regardless of their true value. Bandits rarely kill Defeated enemies who surrender, but take them for ransom.