Redbrands
Redbrands
The Redbrands were a ruthless gang of criminals who terrorized the town of Phandalin. Identifiable by their scarlet cloaks, they operated out of Tresendar Manor and were led by the wizard Glasstaff (Iarno Albrek), who was secretly working for Nezznar the Black Spider.
Overview
The Redbrands transformed from common thugs into an organized criminal enterprise under Glasstaff's leadership. They used intimidation, extortion, kidnapping, and murder to maintain control over Phandalin. Most citizens lived in fear of the Redbrands, and those who resisted were beaten or worse.
The gang's base was hidden beneath the ruins of Tresendar Manor on the eastern edge of town, where they had established a network of underground chambers and tunnels.
Leadership
- Glasstaff (Iarno Albrek) – Leader and founder, defeated by the party
- Various Redbrand Ruffians – Enforcers and thugs
Activities
The Redbrands engaged in numerous criminal activities:
- Extortion: Demanded protection money from local businesses
- Intimidation: Harassed citizens who spoke against them
- Kidnapping: Abducted townspeople for ransom or to silence them
- Murder: Killed those who resisted or knew too much
- Intelligence Gathering: Served as Nezznar's spies in the region
The gang particularly targeted anyone asking questions about Gundren Rockseeker, Wave Echo Cave, or the lost mine, as per Nezznar's orders.
Downfall
The party first encountered the Redbrands upon arriving in Phandalin in Session 3. After learning of the gang's crimes and their hideout location, the party assaulted Tresendar Manor during Session 6 and Session 7.
The party fought their way through the Redbrand hideout, defeating numerous gang members and eventually confronting and defeating Glasstaff himself. With their leader gone and most of their members killed or scattered, the Redbrands were effectively destroyed, and peace returned to Phandalin.
Notable Members
- Glasstaff – Leader (deceased)
- Numerous Redbrand Ruffians – Rank-and-file gang members (defeated or scattered)