OldMan returns his familiar to it's pocket dimension for the time being.   Then motions for Galbon and Bearkiller to follow him to return to the rest of the group.  He then reports to the group what he saw and heard. 

"It looks like either the rebrands are up at the Manor or perhaps they are out causing trouble somewhere else.   It could be they are over at the inn trying to get the jump on us.  That would be comical.  As much as I'd like to go up the Manor tonight and catch them off guard, I think it is best if we go back and get a long rest so that we are 100% strength.  Tomorrow morning we should go up and start some trouble at the manor.  However, I will go with the groups will.  What say you all?"

(Galben looks to the group)

"That sounds like a good idea to me, it seems a little to quite in town tonight for some reason"

”I agree. Something feels off about this and we should wait until tomorrow.”

Jake shakes his head. "I disagree.  I think we should go in, have a drink, and make our presence known.  Speak with the barmaid.  Get a feel for things, see if we can gather some intel on numbers and strengths."

(Bearkiller turns to Jake and then to the group) 

"You all can go in and investigate if you'd like. I'll stay out here in the shadows and keep watch in case the ruffians come this way."

"Jake brings up a good point. The more information the better. And if Bearkiller lurks about we should be relatively safe.  A drink sounds good. I would be willing to go in for a bit."

"I can go in first just in case someone tries to jump us"

"I'll go around back and wait outside. Then we  have both entrances covered.

(Galben leaves the group and works his way to the backside of the Sleeping Giant)

Those party members who indicated they were entering do so. The dingy tavern is essentially empty, and as you enter, the few patrons that are there eye you curiously but otherwise pay you no attention.

Tubard walks up to the barkeep and says "How much to buy a round of ales for the house?"

The goblin barmaid eyes you suspiciously but responds bluntly: "35 copper ought to cover it."

OldMan steps up to take his flask.  "You run a fine looking establishment here. It seems quiet in here tonight.  We have heard that the Redbrands often drink here.  Where might they be hiding out tonight?  We would love to discuss business with them."

"I'll buy a round for the tavern" Tubard then turns and looks for patrons who have an empty seat at their table

The only patrons in the place are a few seated at the bar, but there is ample seating. The barmaid takes Tubard's copper and replies to OldMan, "We'd normally have a group of 4 or so that would be here by now, but haven't seen 'em today. Why do you ask?"

OldMan smiles in a friendly manner.  "We wanted to discuss business with them. We are good friends with Wally Erendan and mentioned that this was a good place to find other Redbrands.  Do you know Wally?  He mentioned a cute barmaid that he was too afraid to talk to.  I assume he was talking about you.  Maybe everyone is up at the Manor with Glasstaff.  I suppose we could just go up there to discuss business."

"Ha, that ol' sweet talker! I bet Wally gave you an earful about it alright. Speaking of which, where is Wally? He's usually one of the bunch in here by now. Seen him?" she asks with a raised eyebrow.

"As a matter of fact we did see him earlier in the day.  He was going to see the townmaster about some business but he didn't say what.  Sounded like some of the others were just laying around while he was the only one doing work.  But that was much earlier.  I just hope he didn't run into the Black Spider. Even Wally couldn't sweet talk them.  I really like your smile.  I have been interested in goblin teeth for sometime.  A hobby you might say.  If you ever loose one in a bar fight let me know.  I'd pay top dollar for a few goblin teeth."

"Unfortunately if you don't know where the Redbrands are we will probably have to leave soon.  My friends here enjoy the drink too much and I don't want to have to carry them home again.  Especially the big one there.  My back ached for weeks.  Thanks for your hospitality."

OldMan takes a long drink from his mug and turns to the others.  "Whose ready to go?"

Tubard, disgruntled by the insult and his wasted copper, says "Let's get out of here"

The barmaid laughs heartily at your remark about her teeth. "Teeth, you say? Well that's a new one. Yeah, sure honey, I'll keep it in mind if I find myself without a need for the ones I got. I presume the Redbrands are up at the manor; that's the most I know. I make it my business to not get in my patrons' business," she says with a twinge of sternness. "And, thanks for the drinks, barbarian. I'm sure these folk will appreciate the gesture." She begins distributing the ales, motioning to Tubard as she slings the drinks. You get a number of half-cocked smiles and head nods as you exit.

The party leaves and regathers outside to decide next steps. You could return to the Inn to take a long rest this evening or you could pursue other leads at your desire. What say you?

As a mage who is low on spells, OldMan votes for a long rest.