Mainestrid Copperlocks

A red-haired gnome woman who came to Phandalin while the party was away, tried to claim authority over the town's mining future, and got pushed back by every notable resident who was present. She will be back.

What Is Known

Mainestrid Copperlocks arrived in Phandalin during the party's extended absence (Sessions A10–A13). According to Pip Stonehill's account, she was:

• Abrasive: She threw her weight around regarding the town and its future without establishing any obvious right to do so
• Focused on mining interests: Her specific concern appeared to be the fate of Phandalin's mining prospects given the continued absence of Gundren Rockseeker, the dwarf who brokered the original Wave Echo Cave opportunity
• Rebuffed: Sildar Hallwinter, Daran Edermath, and Granny Graywind collectively pushed back; she did not get what she came for

She had departed before the party returned in Session A14. Whether she is scouting for a larger interest or acting on her own initiative is unknown.

Significance

The timing of her visit is the signal. Gundren Rockseeker's extended absence has created a vacuum around Wave Echo Cave and the region's mining future. Someone — Mainestrid, or whoever she represents — is already positioning to fill it.

The party has not met her directly. When they do, she is unlikely to be deferential.

Threads

• Who does Mainestrid Copperlocks represent?
• What claim is she trying to establish over Phandalin's mining future?
• Will she return — and when she does, will she deal with the party or around them?