[Insert Creative Title Here]

Astrid

The walls of the castle towered above the bandit pair, lasting a looming shadow over their small frames.

"Got a plan?" Astrid whispered to Esther. She stared intently at the massive castle walls, looming high above the trees and buildings around it. Scores of guardsmen patrolled the keeps and gates, heavily armored and wielding all sorts of contraptions. From a distance, the castle looked completely indomitable. But up close...

"Why else would you be disguised?" Esther peered up at the massive structure, beginning to draw together a mental map of the citadel's shape. She walked a ways around the castle, observing the changes that had occurred in the organization of the castle's defense, making sure it matched up with the map in her head.

Astrid followed close behind, admiring her friend's abilities. Although Astrid was proficient in the physical side of things, always able to pull off some trick in the field, Esther was the mastermind, always able to outmaneuver their opponents.

Plus, Esther was especially good with a bow.

Astrid watched the lines of people in the markets and streets, streaming in and out of stalls and buildings set up around the citadel.

Loud cries of the people, and the noises of various inventions and creatures merged into one monotonous, buzzing, noise. Guardsmen trotted up and down the streets on graceful stallions, carrying colorful banners and weapons on their patrol.

Many others, next to them, gazed benignly at the imposing castle walls, admiring the impressive work of architecture.

"I know where we can go. A section of the walls is under renovation; you can see how the guardsmen are concentrated on that end." She signaled at a circle of guardsmen all standing in a similar spot. Astrid followed her gaze.

"I'd expect that they are working right now. In a few hours, when the sun is set, the workers shall be gone, and we shall have an opportunity when the guards move from post to post." Esther narrowed her eyes, thinking about the logistics of the matter.

"They aren't blind, you know. Will they not have a sentinel, guardsmen in shifts, especially near the area?" Astrid asked.

"I can distract them. Use the opportunity to infiltrate a keep. They'll take me to the dungeon from there. Once you get in, find me, and get me out. Then, we can get to the vault, steal the queen's diamond, and get out before we're noticed. Got it?"

Astrid nodded.