In 1489 DR, Nezznar promised a share to Iarno Albrek of the Lords' Alliance in exchange for his loyalty and aid. Nezznar was the true leader of the Redbrand Bandits, controlling them (as well as the Cragmaw Tribeof goblinoids) in the hopes of finding Wave Echo Cave and unlocking its secrets (while also keeping it a secret for himself).
After finding the mine, Nezznar came across one of the Gundren Rockseeker brothers, Nundro. He slew Nundro, but when Tharden returned to the mine, Nezznar took him as hostage. From then on, he focused on getting to the legendary forge, but was set back by hordes of undead.