Incase you didn't know, you can kill astrid straight away then free the captives (in the shack). Then you start a 'destroy the DB' quest where the penitus oculatus pay you to kill everyone in the sanctuary.

This way you can get arguably the best 1h weapon (Blade of Woe) early on in the game. I don't usually do this, but on one of my heavy armor 2h paladin type characters, I thought it was the better choice for him.

Anyone else go down this route with the DB?

My Khajiit did, but only because they kept sending assassins out after him, and then finally decided to kidnap him from his own house. Enough was enough.

I plan to do this on my next game play.
The rewards are pretty much better for destroying them, than joining them. Except for the final quest reward.
Also you keep the Falkreath Sanctuary in-tact. Not sure if the containers are considered 'safe' though.

yep. sometimes just because the guards very steadfastly make sure you get the chain even if you've managed to avoid it. sometimes because it's cool matched gear and weapon right out of the gate and I knew where to get it.

"Well done..." she says with her last breath.

Astrid... I choose... YOU!