Unmasking the Black Spider
The party finally confronts Glasstaff, who reveals crucial information about the mysterious Black Spider, the mastermind orchestrating events in the region. Under duress, Glasstaff divulges the Black Spider’s motives—securing the Wave Echo Cave and its magical forge to create devastating weapons and artifacts. However, his arrogance and refusal to truly cooperate seal his fate.
With tensions high, Glasstaff meets his end, whether by blade, spell, or divine judgement. But victory is short-lived as chaos erupts.
The Firestorm
While searching the manor for clues and treasures, Gorwin’s earlier mishap with fire comes back to haunt the group. A hidden cache of gunpowder, stockpiled by the Redbrands, ignites in a devastating explosion, reducing Tresendar Manor to rubble.
The explosion triggers a wildfire that rapidly spreads across the ruins on the hill. The villagers of Phandalin scramble to contain the blaze, working desperately to protect their homes and fields. The adventurers, reeling from the chaos, retreat into town as the flames consume the hillside.
Flight Through the Smoke
Stumbling into town, the party faces frightened townsfolk who look to them for answers—and blame. Seeking refuge, they find themselves at the home of an elderly woman, only to encounter another unexpected tragedy.
Snapping Branch’s Mishap
Attempting to calm the panicked woman, Snapping Branch’s unconventional approach leads to unintended consequences. In a moment of bizarre “seduction,” the woman collapses, whether from shock, fear, or the strange charm of the adventurer. The party is left with a grim decision—bury the body and move on or face the wrath of the townsfolk.
A Tense Night’s Rest
Needing shelter and time to recover, the group rests in the now-abandoned home. Unease lingers as the fire on the hill smoulders and smoke blankets the town. Their rest is troubled by guilt, fear, and the growing realisation that their actions have drawn even more attention.
Next Steps: The Gundren Brothers
With the Black Spider’s plans unveiled and Glasstaff eliminated, the adventurers set their sights on the Gundren brothers. The map to Wave Echo Cave is still in play, and the race to secure the forge begins.
But as the ashes settle, the party must decide whether to stay and help Phandalin rebuild—or flee the consequences of their fiery missteps.