The party finished the battle in the Vuotomente Caverns, defeating Zev's construct and his remaining forces. Before they could recover Kincaid, a monstrous undead gnoll, Vraxul, burst through a northern door, forcing another desperate fight. Victorious, the party took a short rest and investigated Zev's map table, discovering tactical plans written in Calishite and targeting rural smallholds for abductions. Kira gathered the documents for later translation, and Gavin claimed Zev's map.
Loot from the fight included a Light Crossbow +2, Scimitar of Sharpness, 425gp, Instrument of Scribing, Lock of Trickery, Immovable Rod, Brooch of Shielding, and the Greatsword of Life Stealing (from Captain Arsenne some time prior).
Bruno agreed to lead the rescued Vuotomente townsfolk to safety in a nearby town, showing the party where to meet him after searching for Matteo. He also took the party's horses for the journey.
Tracking fresh footprints behind the cave, the party caught up to two figures at a river bridge: a large, confused Matteo and a smaller, acrobatic woman, Valerie. Gavin recognized her as a Rhinduan, first calling her Ottilie, but she responded only to the name Zaranda. At her whispered command, Matteo drew his swords and charged the party, initiating a new fight.
The party faced down Matteo and Valerie, successfully subduing both without falling into the river below. Barrick's counter attack with his new Scimitar of Sharpness severed Matteo's arm in the melee.
The session ended with Matteo incapacitated and Valerie securely restrained.