With Snezze recovering from the kobold ambush, The Mercenaries pressed onward, determined to rescue Gundren Rockseeker and uncover the secrets of his cargo. Their journey led them to a foreboding cave entrance, half-hidden by brambles and echoing with the sounds of goblin chatter.
The Stealthy Approach
Determined to avoid a direct assault, the group opted for stealth. Nyx led the infiltration, her changeling abilities allowing her to slip unseen into shadows. Weeka and Kon followed closely, relying on silence and quick steps. Riteus, despite his size, moved with surprising care, and Snezze, though weakened, used his nimble footing to stay out of sight.
Their approach was careful, dispatching goblin sentries one by one until they reached the cave’s interior. Within the dimly lit tunnels, they spotted a bugbear barking orders at its minions. Seeing an opportunity, Nyx shifted form, taking on the appearance of one of the bugbears.
A Risky Gambit
The disguise worked—at first. Nyx strode boldly past the goblins, issuing orders and gaining vital positioning deeper into the hideout. But the ruse failed when the bugbear chief challenged her authority. The moment’s hesitation gave the others time to prepare.
The ensuing fight was brutal. Riteus charged, shattering goblins against the cavern walls. Weeka unleashed dark magics, forcing the bugbear onto the defensive. Kon’s gadgets provided blinding light and deafening noise, sowing chaos. Snezze, despite his earlier injury, danced between enemies, delivering quick, deadly strikes.
The Rescue
Amidst the chaos, they found Sildar Hallwinter, bound and beaten but alive. Freeing him quickly, the party fought their way out of the caves, leaving the goblin forces scattered and broken.
Outside, they rested, tending to Sildar’s wounds and gathering what supplies they could salvage. With no sign of Gundren Rockseeker, they turned their focus toward returning to Phandalin, knowing their journey had only begun.
Return to Phandalin
The group arrived in Phandalin weary but triumphant. Sildar Hallwinter provided information about Gundren Rockseeker’s capture and the mysterious map he carried. The town’s quiet streets offered a brief respite, but tension hung in the air. The band had gained allies, but enemies surely lurked in the shadows.
Notes
- Setting: The goblin hideout marks the shift from wandering musicians to determined adventurers.
- Themes: Deception, strategy, and sacrifice define this chapter.
- Foreshadowing: Gundren Rockseeker’s disappearance hints at a larger conspiracy, and Phandalin promises both refuge and danger.