Sigmund Brandtner was a Zemnian-born
shadar-kai professor of cryptozoology and monstrosities at Strixhaven University. A renowned monster hunter and scholar, he was known for his deep knowledge of monstrous physiology and behavior, as well as for his inflexible views on the dangers posed by shapeshifters and aberrant beings. While respected in academic and adventuring circles, he was also feared for his ruthlessly absolutist philosophy: all monsters were threats to be eliminated without exception.
When the party first encountered him, Sigmund had taken up residence in
Waterdeep while pursuing a suspected den of
doppelgangers. Though initially presented to them as an expert needing assistance, it soon became clear that Sigmund’s fervor bordered on fanaticism. His rigid worldview, aggressive tactics, and inability to distinguish nuance in moral or social matters led to growing tension with the group, culminating in a tragic and violent confrontation.
History
Academic and Professional Background
Sigmund spent much of his life studying monstrous creatures and advising adventurers on how to track, identify, and eliminate them. He became a well-known instructor at Strixhaven, where his lectures drew both praise and unease. At one point, he collaborated with
Volothamp Geddarm on shapeshifter research, but their relationship ended abruptly following an incident in which Sigmund executed a doppelganger close to Volo without seeking confirmation or consent. This event ended their association and further fueled Sigmund’s distrust of all shapeshifters.
The Waterdeep Investigation
Sigmund came to Waterdeep following a lead provided by a former acquaintance, Brunhilde Rassistis, who claimed to have seen a woman in the city she knew had died. This led him to suspect a doppelganger conspiracy.
Renaer Neverember, seeking to verify Sigmund’s claims while avoiding another public scandal, asked the party to accompany him on his investigation. Their search uncovered Brunhilde’s corpse hidden in a cellar and a doppelganger impersonating her—an individual the party would later come to know as
Sabine.
Death and Gentle Repose
The encounter with Sabine led to a volatile confrontation. Sigmund refused to see her as anything but a threat, and when the party protected her, he turned on them. During the ensuing combat, Sigmund fought with brutal precision, targeting Grayson and Jonnie directly. Despite their efforts to stabilize him after the fight, he succumbed to his wounds. Sabine used a scroll of
gentle repose to preserve his body for potential resurrection.
Aftermath
The party delivered Sigmund’s body to Renaer, who arranged for it to be transported to Strixhaven under the protection of two City Watch officers. Over a tenday, Renaer informed them that the escort never arrived. With
gentle repose expired, Sigmund can no longer be resurrected.
