Quest giver: Maul, Aernst Castle Ruins
Experience:
Gold:
RC:
Vanquish the rival thieves to the west
Dispose the deserter
Enter the castle ruins and find the bandit leader, Maul. Talk to thim to accept this quest. You have to accomplish one of the two tasks: vanquish the rival thieves to the west or dispose the deserter. The latter seems to be easier as it is nearby. You'll get better rewards by accomplishing both tasks.
Dispose the deserter
You can find Pike in Cassardis. However, to be able to speak to him, you should have complete the side quest "An Uninvited Guest". Talk to him and you'll have two options:
1. Return to Maul and offer his life
2. Leave the village and run far away.
Choosing the first option will yield the best reward.
Vanquish the rival thieves to the west
You'll find the female bandits along the road leading to Heavenspeak Fort, where Ophis and her gang is located. You don't need to clear the fort or kill Ophis to complete this objective. Take note that Ophis and Betiah are necessary for the sidequest Thick as Thieves.
Report back to Maul to collect your rewards.