The vast majority of soldiers present during this period often found themselves out of work and in need of money. Many turned to banditry to supplement their income. This was also a way to get back onto some noble's payroll, as what they stole from peasants and townspeople lowered the noble's tax base and the morale of those so plundered. Thus the nobles had to hire more troops and chase after the bandits. There were probably more troops lost suppressing bandits during this period than in regular battles. Exceptional NPCs are particularly dangerous as leaders of Brigand groups.