The Bugbear leader swings his morningstar, but misses. However, the other two Bugbears find their mark and two Redbrands go down. It's their turn now.

Redbrand 1 Attack1: 12 Damage: 3
Redbrand 1 Attack2: 20 Damage: 6

Redbrand 2 Attack1: 12 Damage: 5
Redbrand 2 Attack2: 10 Damage: 6

Redbrand 4 Attack1: 21 Damage: 4
Redbrand 4 Attack2: 17 Damage: 5

Redbrand 6 Attack1: 11 Damage: 4
Redbrand 6 Attack2: 24 Damage: 11

The first Redbrand scores another hit on the Bugbear leader, and it is not looking great now. The fourth Redbrand scores both his hits, and now the second Bugbear is hurt. The sixth Redbrand connect a good strike with his shortsword, and he downs the third Bugbear. Now it's four thugs versus two Bugbear.

Bugbear 1 Attack: 20 Damage: 9

Bugbear 2 Attack: 20 Damage: 11

Both Bugbears swing their mighty morningstars, but both misses. The Redbrands sensing their opening, they try to finish them now.

Redbrand 1 Attack1: 20 Damage: 5
Redbrand 1 Attack2: 20 Damage: 4

Redbrand 2 Attack1: 12 Damage: 3
Redbrand 2 Attack2: 7 Damage: 6

Redbrand 4 Attack1: 6 Damage: 7
Redbrand 4 Attack2: 17 Damage: 8

Redbrand 6 Attack1: 21 Damage: 5
Redbrand 6 Attack2: 11 Damage: 4

The second Redbrand connects with both his attack, and now the Bugbear leader is looking really bloodied. The forth Redbrand misses both his attacks, but the sixth connects with both hits, leaving the second Bugbear very bloodied as well. The Bugbears do not give up, thinking they can still win this fight.

Bugbear 1 Attack: 23 Damage: 10

Bugbear 2 Attack: 8 Damage: 10

Only the Bugbear leader is able to connect with his morningstar and the first Redbrand goes down.

Redbrand 2 Attack1: 12 Damage: 3
Redbrand 2 Attack2: 24 Damage: 11

Redbrand 4 Attack1: 20 Damage: 7
Redbrand 4 Attack2: 11 Damage: 8

Redbrand 6 Attack1: 24 Damage: 9
Redbrand 6 Attack2: 7 Damage: 6

The forth Redbrand is able to put an end to the Bugbears' misery, and downs both of them single-handedly. "These brutes are crazy!!" Yells the Redbrand.

"There is our cue. You know what to do right?" Vayle looks at Simon. Without saying a word, Simon walks into the common room, followed by Vayle, both scimitars drawn. Inside, they see utter carnage, and three very confused Redbrands. Simon hits the bottom of his Glasstaff on the floor to get everyone's attention.

"Uh Hum. Redbrands. Your organization is no more. Glassstaff has been apprehended, and will be sent away for justice. You have a choice. You can either leave town for good, or we can end your life here." Simon knows that it would be dangerous to add these thugs to the town's defense.

Simon Persuasion: 7

Redbrand Charisma: 6

The three remaining Redbrands look at each other, drop their swords, and they start to walk away from the hideout. Simon breaths a sigh of relieve, and Vayle pats him on his shoulder. "Well done. The town is now safe. Let us see what we can find in these rooms." Vayle finds stuff all over the floor from their betting. The total amounts to 75 cp, 55 sp, 22 ep, 15 gp, and a gold earring set with a tiny ruby (30 gp). From the Bugbear leader, he finds an eye patch made of black leather set with semiprecious stones (50 gp). Meanwhile, Simon goes to the room where the Bugbears came from, and he finds an unconscious Goblin on the floor. He leave it be for now, and he goes back to join Vayle.

Vayle and Simon leave the common room through the north door, and enter the room right across from it.

This room appears to be a wizard’s workshop. A rat scurries across the floor and takes refuge under a large worktable set up with alembics, retorts, distillation coils, and other alchemical devices, all of it stewing and bubbling away. Bookshelves are crowded with sheaves of parchment and strange-looking tomes.

Vayle Perception: 24

Simon Perception: 15

As Vayle and Simon step into Iarno's workshop, in the north east corner of the hideout, they take in the sight of the room. The workshop is relatively small, cluttered with various alchemical equipment, books, and scrolls. Dim candlelight casts flickering shadows across the walls, creating an atmosphere of secrecy and mystery.

The room is filled with shelves, holding jars of powders, vials of colorful liquids, and stacks of parchment filled with arcane symbols and notes. A large workbench occupies the center of the room, covered with papers, quills, and half-finished potions. Glass apparatuses, bubbling with unknown mixtures, stand on the bench, while glass tubes and beakers dangle from metal frames above.

On the walls, strange diagrams and sketches are pinned up, depicting intricate magical formulas and sigils. The shelves are adorned with books of various sizes, their titles hinting at the study of magic, history, and forbidden knowledge. Dust and cobwebs have settled in corners, indicating that the room has been left undisturbed for some time.

In one corner of the workshop, a wooden cabinet stands tall, its doors slightly ajar. Inside, shelves are lined with neatly organized scrolls, spellbooks, and potion ingredients, carefully labeled and arranged. The contents of the cabinet hint at Iarno's meticulousness and dedication to his craft.

As Vayle and Simon take in the scene, the room exudes an aura of both curiosity and danger. It becomes clear that Iarno Albrek, known as Glasstaff, was deeply involved in the study and practice of magic, using his workshop as a hub for his nefarious activities.

Simon finds among the books a tome written in Dwarvish. It is the journal of an adventurer named Urmon, it describes the history of the Lost Mine of Phandelver and the Forge of Spells. In addition, Urmon records that a magic mace named Lightbringer was commissioned by priests of Lathander, the god of dawn, from the mages working with the gnomes and dwarves of the Phandelver’s Pact. The mace was lost when Wave Echo Cave and its mine vanished from history. He surmises that this must be the same mine that Gundren has found.

Simon stores Urmon's journal in his backpack, and they proceed to Iarno's quarters again. As Vayle and Simon enter Iarno's quarters, they find themselves in a small but tidy space that contrasts with the disorder of the workshop. The room is sparsely furnished yet functional, reflecting a focus on practicality rather than luxury.

A simple wooden bed with a worn mattress rests against one wall, neatly made and devoid of personal effects. A small nightstand stands beside it, holding a dimly lit oil lamp, a few books, and a quill with an inkwell. The absence of personal items suggests that Iarno saw this place as a temporary residence rather than a home.

A wooden desk occupies another corner of the room, covered in scattered parchments, ink stains, and quills. It appears to be a place where Iarno would plan and strategize, as several maps of the region are spread out, marked with annotations and symbols denoting various points of interest. There is also a locked drawer in the desk, hinting at Iarno's desire for privacy or safeguarding valuable possessions.

A simple wardrobe stands against the wall opposite the bed, containing a few changes of clothes, all bearing the red cloak emblem of the Redbrands. It seems that Iarno wanted to maintain his association with the gang even within his private quarters.

Overall, the room gives the impression of a functional living space rather than a personal sanctuary. It reflects Iarno's commitment to his cause and his willingness to devote himself to the Redbrands' activities, suggesting a level of discipline and devotion to his role as Glasstaff.

Simon finds various papers and notes are stacked neatly on the desk, mostly consisting of Iarno’s written orders to apothecaries and alchemists in nearby settlements for more materials for his workshop. Then he finds a letter signed with the Black Spider’s symbol. It reads:

Lord Albrek,

My spies in Neverwinter tell me that strangers are due to arrive in Phandalin. They could be working for the dwarves. Capture them if you can, kill them if you must, but don’t allow them to upset our plans. See that any dwarven maps in their possession are delivered to me with haste. I’m counting on you, Iarno. Don’t disappoint me.

Vayle finds at the foot of Iarno’s bed a sturdy, unlocked wooden chest holding the best pickings of the Redbrands’ loot over the last two months. It contains 180 sp, 130 gp, and a silk pouch containing five carnelians (10 gp each), two peridots (15 gp each), and one pearl (100 gp). It also contains two magic items that Iarno brought with him from Neverwinter: a scroll of charm person and a scroll of fireball. Vayle gives the scrolls to Simon, while Simon shows Vayle the letter he just found

Vayle determines that it is very late now, and they could really use some rest. They will sleep the rest of the night in Iarno's quarters.

Vayle and Simon wake up the in the morning refreshed. They make their way to the common room to start the grim job of clearing the dead bodies, but to their surprises, there is none. They figured the creature from the crevasse was busy while they were sleeping. Simon remembers of the Goblin, and they go to the room where the Bugbears were staying.

Droop: looking frightened "Uh... hello? Who are you? Why you here?"

Simon: "Hello there. My name is Simon, and this is Vayle. We've come to deal with the Redbrands. We noticed you here in the guard barracks. Can you tell us a bit about yourself? Where do you come from?"

Droop: "Oh, um... Droop is Droop. Droop comes from cave... Cragmaw cave. Big goblin cave. Lots of goblins there. But Droop not like other goblins. They mean to Droop, hurt Droop. So Droop run away, hide here. Find food in hideout."

Vayle: "Droop, what were you doing in this hideout? Did you serve the Redbrands in any way?"

Droop: "Redbrands... yes, Droop help sometimes. They feed Droop, so Droop do things for them. They want goblins to help fight, but Droop not good at fighting. Droop... Droop sorry for what he done."

Simon: "It's alright, Droop. You don't need to be sorry. We're here to make things right. Do you know what happened to the bugbears? They were causing trouble in this hideout."

Droop: "Bugbears? Yeah, bugbears are tough, scary. They were with Redbrands, but then they fight. Droop not know what happen after. Maybe they fight more, hurt each other. Droop hide in barracks, scared."

Vayle: "Don't worry, Droop. The bugbears are no longer a threat. You're safe now. We're going to take care of this place and make sure it's no longer a danger to anyone."

Droop: "Really? Droop can be safe? No one hurt Droop anymore?"

Simon: "Yes, Droop. We promise you'll be safe. We're going to help you find a better place, away from all this danger."

Droop: "Thank you, Simon. Thank you, Vayle. Droop will help you, be good goblin. No more bad things. Droop will show you secret ways, secret places."

Vayle: "That's very kind of you, Droop. We appreciate your help. Stick with us, and we'll make sure you're taken care of. Let's go now, and we'll find you a safer home."

Droop: "Okay, okay. Droop will help. Together, we find new place. No more bad things, yes?"

As Vayle and Simon enter the town center, the townsfolk who had anxiously awaited their return erupt in cheers and applause. The atmosphere is filled with a mixture of relief and joy, knowing that the Redbrand threat has been eliminated. Vayle steps forward, raising his hand to signal for silence. The crowd hushes, eagerly awaiting his words.

"Good people of Phandalin." Vayle begins, his voice strong and clear. "We stand here before you today to bring you news of triumph. The Redbrands have been defeated, their stronghold cleansed of their presence. You can rest easy knowing that your town is now safe from their tyranny."

The crowd erupts into cheers once again, the sound echoing through the town square. The townsfolk begin hugging one another, tears of relief streaming down their faces. The burden that had weighed upon their hearts for so long has been lifted. In the midst of the celebration, Trilena, the Dendrar family, and Elara, the reformed Redbrand, approach Vayle and Simon. Trilena's eyes are filled with gratitude as she embraces Vayle tightly, whispering words of thanks. The Dendrar family stands nearby, smiles of immense relief and happiness adorning their faces.

The townsfolk gather around, expressing their gratitude to Vayle and Simon, offering words of thanks and admiration. It is a moment of unity and shared triumph, where the bonds of the community grow even stronger. As the sun begins to set, the Stonehill Inn becomes the hub of festivities. The townsfolk gather inside, sharing a meal prepared by Toblen, the innkeeper. Laughter, music, and stories fill the air, bringing a sense of merriment that had been absent for far too long. Vayle and Simon, still wearing the remnants of their Redbrand disguises, join in the celebration. They are hailed as heroes, their actions having restored peace and hope to Phandalin. They are praised and embraced by the townsfolk, their courage and determination recognized and cherished.

As Vayle navigates through the bustling celebration, he finds himself repeatedly stopped by grateful townsfolk who wish to express their appreciation and admiration for his heroic deeds. Each encounter is filled with handshakes, pats on the back, and heartfelt words of gratitude. Vayle graciously accepts their compliments and shares a few words of encouragement and appreciation in return.

Amidst the joyful chaos, Vayle catches sight of Sister Garaele standing outside her humble abode, patiently waiting for him. Her eyes sparkle with anticipation as she scans the crowd, seeking his familiar figure. Vayle, determined to deliver the news personally, musters his resolve and begins to make his way towards her through the throng of well-wishers.

However, fate seems to conspire against his intentions. Every step he takes brings him face to face with someone else seeking his attention, recounting tales of bravery or offering heartfelt thanks. Vayle finds himself engaged in conversations that grow longer than intended, his attempts to politely excuse himself politely met with insistence to stay and revel in the celebrations.

Vayle steals glances towards Sister Garaele, their eyes meeting briefly as she wears an encouraging smile, patiently awaiting his arrival. He feels a sense of longing to share the news with her, to witness the relief and joy on her face firsthand.

Time slips away as the festivities continue to unfold, the night growing darker and the revelry reaching its crescendo. Vayle becomes more determined than ever to reach Sister Garaele's home and fulfill his promise. With a renewed resolve, he gracefully navigates through the crowd, politely excusing himself from conversations, and expressing his gratitude for the support he has received.

Finally, with the crowd parting before him, Vayle reaches Sister Garaele's doorstep. She stands there, her eyes bright with anticipation and a mixture of excitement and patience. As Vayle approaches, a mixture of relief and joy fills her expression.

Vayle, slightly out of breath but wearing a triumphant smile, stands before Sister Garaele. "Sister Garaele, the Redbrands have been defeated." he says, his voice filled with triumph. "Phandalin is safe once more."

Sister Garaele's eyes widen with delight and relief. She clasps her hands together, a tear of joy escaping down her cheek. "Oh, thank the gods." she whispers, her voice filled with gratitude. "You have brought hope and peace to our town, Vayle. You are a true hero."

Vayle's chest swells with pride as he shares the details of their victory, recounting the bravery and sacrifices of the townsfolk and his companion, Simon. Sister Garaele listens intently, her face radiating with admiration for their courage and determination.

As the night winds down and the celebrations continue to echo through the town, Vayle and Sister Garaele stand together, sharing a moment of profound connection. The news has been delivered, and their bond of trust and friendship has grown stronger.

In the background, the laughter and music of the festivities create a symphony of joy, enveloping them in the collective spirit of a grateful and united community.

As Vayle and Sister Garaele immerse themselves in their conversation, their connection deepens, and an unspoken understanding blossoms between them. Each passing moment strengthens their bond, and they find solace and joy simply in each other's presence. Vayle's heart swells with affection, and he yearns to express his feelings to Sister Garaele, to take that leap of vulnerability. Just as Vayle is on the verge of revealing his emotions, a burst of excitement disrupts their intimate moment. Simon, brimming with enthusiasm, rushes towards them, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. He interrupts their conversation, oblivious to the tender moment that had been building between Vayle and Sister Garaele.

"Vayle, I almost forgot!" Simon exclaims. "The letter we found on Iarno's desk. Sildar needs to see it right away!"

Vayle's expression shifts from the vulnerability of a potential confession to the responsibility that lies before him. He understands the urgency of the situation and the importance of the letter's contents. With a mix of disappointment and determination, he turns his attention to Simon, his voice filled with purpose.

"You're right, Simon. We must not delay. Sildar needs to be informed immediately." Vayle replies, his gaze briefly connecting with Sister Garaele's, silently conveying both his regret for the interruption and his unspoken feelings. Sister Garaele, recognizing the shift in their conversation, offers a supportive smile, understanding the weight of the task at hand. "Go, Vayle." She says gently, her voice filled with encouragement. "Duty calls. We will have time to speak later."

Vayle nods, a mixture of gratitude and longing in his eyes, before turning his attention fully to Simon. With a deep breath, he puts aside his personal desires, momentarily setting aside the unspoken words that had been hanging in the air. As Vayle and Simon make their way towards Sildar, the air is thick with unspoken sentiments and unfinished conversations. Vayle casts a final glance back at Sister Garaele, silently promising to return and to explore the depths of their connection when the time is right.

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Vayle turns his attention towards Elara as she approaches him, her eyes filled with a mix of regret and determination. He listens attentively to her words, sensing the sincerity and remorse in her voice. As she apologizes for her involvement with the Redbrands, Vayle's gaze softens, and he nods understandingly.

"Elara, I appreciate your honesty and courage in admitting your past mistakes." Vayle responds, his voice conveying a sense of empathy. "It takes strength to confront one's own actions and seek redemption. I believe in second chances, and I am willing to trust in your newfound resolve."

He pauses for a moment, his gaze meeting hers with sincerity. "Phandalin needs defenders like you, Elara. Your commitment to protect the town and its people speaks volumes of your character. I believe you have the capacity to make amends and stand on the side of justice." He extends a hand towards her, a gesture of acceptance and support. "Let us work together, Elara, to ensure the safety and well-being of Phandalin. Your dedication to this cause is commendable, and I am grateful to have you as an ally. Together, we will bring peace and prosperity to this town." With a shared understanding and a renewed sense of purpose, Vayle and Elara forge a bond based on trust and the mutual desire to protect Phandalin.

Vayle, Simon, and Sildar gather in the Townmaster's Hall, where Simon presents the letter they discovered in Iarno's quarters. Sildar's eyes scan the contents of the letter, his expression shifting between surprise and concern. "This is valuable information." Sildar remarks, his voice laced with a mix of curiosity and urgency. "It confirms our suspicions that the Black Spider is involved and likely in possession of Gundren's map to Wave Echo Cave. We must act swiftly to retrieve it."

The trio proceeds to the cell where Iarno is being held, their footsteps echoing through the dimly lit corridor. As they approach, Vayle and Simon exchange a determined glance, knowing that their conversation with Iarno may hold crucial answers. "Where is the Black Spider?" Vayle asks sternly, his voice resonating with an underlying intensity. "And what do you know about Wave Echo Cave?"

Iarno, sitting in the cell with a mixture of defiance and resignation, looks up at them. His face displays a fleeting glimpse of frustration before he responds. "I don't know the exact location of Wave Echo Cave." Iarno replies, his tone betraying a hint of bitterness. "But the Black Spider may have the map. He keeps his true identity hidden, and even I was just a pawn in his grand scheme. I just know that he is a Dark Elf."

Sildar steps forward, his gaze fixed on Iarno. "Tell us everything you know." he demands, his voice carrying the weight of determination. "We need any information that can help us locate the Black Spider and retrieve the map."

Iarno, realizing the dire situation he finds himself in, sighs and begins to recount the details he knows. The Black Spider is searching Wave Echo Cave for the Forge of Spells. Dwarves and gnomes of the Phandelver’s Pact used the magical forge to fashion powerful magic items. No other members of the Lords’ Alliance know of Iarno’s betrayal.

With each word, their resolve strengthens. They are now armed with new insights, ready to embark on the next phase of their journey to thwart the Black Spider's plans and reclaim the map that holds the key to the legendary Wave Echo Cave.

Vayle speaks with Sildar in the main hall. "I promised to help Sister Garaele with something that troubles her. After I that, I will search for the Cragmaw Castle. I hope to find Gundren there, and that he can take us to the Wave Echo Cave." Sildar nods. "It is late, we should all should get a good night sleep."

Vayle, concerned for Sister Garaele's well-being, visits her the next morning. As they sit together, he notices a faint bruise on her cheek, prompting him to inquire about its origin. Sister Garaele, trying to downplay the situation, assures Vayle that it's nothing to be concerned about. "Don't worry, Vayle." she says softly, offering him a reassuring smile. "It was just a minor incident. I appreciate your concern, but I'm perfectly capable of taking care of myself."

Vayle, however, persists, his voice filled with genuine care. "Sister Garaele, your safety means a lot to me. I cannot stand idly by while you face danger. Please, let me help you." Sister Garaele's eyes meet his, touched by his genuine concern. She hesitates for a moment before revealing her mission to find the location of a spellbook belonging to a banshee named Agatha. She explains that she has been seeking answers from Agatha but has so far been unsuccessful. Vayle listens attentively, his determination growing with each word. He understands the importance of Sister Garaele's mission and vows to assist her. "I will not be facing this alone." he says firmly. "Simon and I will go on this quest to find Agatha and retrieve the information you seek. Your safety and the success of your mission are my priorities."

Sister Garaele's expression softens, a mix of gratitude and relief. "Thank you, Vayle." she replies sincerely. "Your support means more to me than you know. But promise me, you will take care and return safely." Vayle nods, his eyes locked with hers. "I promise, Sister Garaele. We will complete this mission and return to you unharmed. You can count on us."

Vayle, understanding the need for careful preparations, nods in agreement. "I will make the necessary arrangements for our journey to Conyberry. Tomorrow, at first light, we shall depart." he affirms, his voice resolute.

Respecting Sister Garaele's position and the boundaries it entails, Vayle refrains from any intimate gestures. Instead, he offers a polite bow, expressing his gratitude and appreciation for her understanding. "Thank you, Sister Garaele, for entrusting me with this task. I will do everything in my power to ensure our success." With a final exchange of well wishes and a shared understanding of the path that lies ahead, Vayle leaves Sister Garaele's home.