Aremus: Waterdeep had been having lots of troubles of their own lately. Cloud Giant cities have been orbiting the city of splendor, growing bolder with each day. The Open Lord did not feel they could spare any of their air Calvary at this time.
Ordrar: You don't find the particular banner, but have no trouble getting messages magically sent. Serissa is thrilled that you found her father alive and will be sending some giant sized forces to help. Zephyros has dealt with the troublesome fire giants in the north and will meet the party as soon as he can. No word on Harshnag though, since he was last seen fighting the same dragon. Hopefully, he made it out alive.
Tranio: The citizens of Waterdeep and the surronding areas are less than thrilled to pursue your death cult. However, the Zhentarim make their interest known. Yes, the very same group of sell swords who opposed you back and Nightstone are now willing to join forces. It depends how much gold you offer.
Scouting Party: Your destination is far to the east, farther than any of you have traveled before or even knew was possible. Your long journey ends here, in the desert. A churning cauldron of black clouds fills the sky as thunder peals and lightning flashes. Half buried in the cold dunes is a crumbling amphitheater adorned with statues, many of them broken, the rest worn smooth by wind and sand. Two large trebuchets stand atop the ruins. Where cheers once rang out across a great city, now a solemn fortress stands before you, waiting for you to draw near. From a distance, you don't spot any enemy forces. Rather, you see about thirty stone gargogyles spread throught out the arena and several trebuchets.