Emerging onto the top floor of the tower, our heroes were greeted by a group of Warforged and odd crossbow constructs, diligently guarding the Hand of Vecna. The party was attacked as the defenders followed instructions that were given to them centuries before. Zarek fell beneath the onslaught, but Bran helped him to recover by pouring their last remaining healing potion down his throat. While the battle ensued, Greegus stealthily made his way around the melee and unlocked the final door, leading to the Hand. After mopping up the constructs, our group of heroes followed Greegus into the room and saw him reaching for the Hand, which was encased in a brilliant red column of energy. Just as his hand touched the column of energy, Zarek shot him from behind and the mask of Greegus fell away to reveal a glowing Angel of Valor.

After being shot by the party, the Angel was hesitant to turn over the Hand of Vecna to the group. However, Nerantha and Andina managed to convince him that it was in everyone's best interest for the party to guard the Hand. The Angel eventually agrees and allows them to take the Hand, leaving them with the warning that a host of Angelic brethren would descend upon them if they deigned to use the Hand. Upon taking the Hand, the party is transported back to the hole beneath the catacombs, the misty portal gone for good. The group leaves the catacombs through the garden exit and is surprised to find it empty. As they are walking back to their inn, the see the streets empty except for a few armed patrols. Not knowing what is going on, they decided to avoid the patrols and make their way to the nearest inn, where they rest for the night.