kyle of the hand's page

Sorry if this has been posted elsewhere but I couldn't find anything similar. My group is in the belt of champions module right before the big dinner. We broke game and they proceeded to talk at length about tactics and what things to expect and how to counter them etc. At one point one of the players asked if betting was allowed and remembering the sidebars I said sure. This is where it got interesting. Now they don't have a lot of cash over all but have a couple of thousand apiece easy (they haven't really bought a whole lot and have sold almost all they found). I know the module says there are multiple persons to bet with with a max of 250 gp or 500 gp with the right rolls. The issue is how many is a reasonable amout of takers for their bets? I know it is my campaign and all but I'm really trying to be fair to them and reward them for good play and survival. I've also made a point of telling them that they shouldn't assume to win every gladitorial fight, that the module is built arround them not being the champion. This has put them a little off guard as they no longer think it is a sure thing to bet on themselves. The other side of this is that they'll be doing a lot of encounters, using a lot of resources and gaining no trophies from the fallen. I realize they get purse money but it is kind of a sparse module material wise as has the campaign so far. I'm just trying to find a nice middle ground that makes them feel rewarded without them having enough cash to buy their every hearts desire. Any imput would be nice. Thanks.

So they actually did some smart things for once in HoHR. After a disasterous Sodden Hold they decided they needed a different approach. They bought some potions and scrolls of a non combat varity, ie darkvision, silence, knock etc, and decided to try not to just charge in at every door. In Zyrxog's caverns they sent in a scout that correctly identified the Shriekers and silenced them along with burning out the mold. They dispatched the 3 guards too quickly for an alarm and negotiated with the Naga (they'll likely attack it on the way back). They went all out after sneaking near the drow enclave and didn't let a single dark elf escape. They happened to actually spot the Glyph and avoid it. When they got to the double door area they realized it was the entrance to the "bosses lair" and decided they needed to rest before tackling the big cheese and his bodyguards. They went into the prisoner pen and set up camp on the far right after disposing of the bodies into the upper area the drow slept in and decided to rest. So to the point, I know Zyrxog is a real pain for most groups and my party has been lucky/smart to this part, but I can't really see why he would know they are there yet and could they safely rest? Does Zyrxog have contact with his minions at all times? Did I miss something? Just looking for some thoughts on what others might do in this situation. Thanks.

Why is something like this I'm looking sooooo forward to making me so sad. Cannot wait for it but hate that it is coming. Look forward to great stuff, we know the cover will be for sure!