The pirates of the Gray Claw banner were a relatively new group, but their cruelty and notoriety spread rapidly.
This was due, in particular, to one fact: their leadership consisted mainly of traitorous disciples who had been expelled from the sect after committing some crime.
The sect generally didn't pay much attention to specific groups, with orders to exterminate pirates applying to any group encountered and being very broad.
But in the case of the Gray Claw Banner, since they were traitors, more direct action was necessary.
Obviously, the criminals knew this and were ready.
They didn't need to stay there forever.
Even if they repelled the first attack, the sect would simply send someone stronger, and a single core disciple would be enough to wipe them out before they could react.
All they needed to do was hold out long enough, fend off a few attacks, and keep stealing.
