DM Speaks:
Tonight, there was a situation involving a guild master that was avoided. Could the group have defeated him? Maybe, but I'd guess it would have been at losses and even if you "won" I think he may have escaped before his death and been an antagonist moving forward. The group did exceptionally well in this situation.
The 4th piece was not found but you did find the Pickled Punk who I assure you will be seen again. Just too much character. He is in pickle juice (the green around him), thus the "pickled" punk.
Kylor Speaks:
This is one of those situations where our lives and well-being outweigh the risk and potential outcome. We were outmatched due to home-field advantage, potentially outclassed by the guild master, and we did not know anything about the strange pickled Pete creature. Yes, it cost us some gems, but the Seadogs can continue their mission for the Captain and ultimately our goal of defeating Desicus. I was unsure if Taldel would be able to go along with the group, but I am glad he was able to do what was needed for the ultimate good.