As with most rogues and other treacherous scum, the bandits of Dolwood hunger for wealth, fame and the more superficial of pleasures. Using the woods as a provider of shelter and food they walk hidden paths to traverse long distances. Hunting for the near defenceless merchant that will hopefully line their pockets with gold.

It is hard being a thief. The Guard patrol all the three major roads passing through The Dolwood. Also taking payment from the different nobles to do regular checks around their domain. Every few miles along the road stand stone outposts. Fresh steeds, and able men wait for the inevitable call to arms, the call that sends them hunting for the miscreant that has stepped off the true road, the mindless thug that ignores the Emperors prevailing light. The hunters become the hunted, their only protection, the forest that hides them, that embraces them as they flee from the law. This does not mean to say there are few sinners, merely that survival demands an able body and quick mind.

Just as thousands of merchants flock to Acumin’s trade square so do rogues flock to the forest beside. Some prosper gaining wealth and reputation, others experience the blessed Emperors wrath first hand. The problem is not the existing bands, but the frightening speed they grow and evolve. If not stopped they will hard press the Guard in the future.

For now though the Guard controls the roads and farms willing to pay for protection. The bands control the forest, pressing free farmers for “tax” or certain accidents might start happening. Some bands execute strikes against the patrolled roads. This holds great danger in being captured, but also is more rewarding than pushing farmers around.

To put it in perspective the lives of both Imperial Guard and bandit are an endless game of cat and mouse. The bandit with knowledge of the forest, his determined will to survive, and the Guard with the blessing of the Emperor and his weapons master to uproot the foul beasts that torment this realm.