You say, "Hail, Inquisitor Thorson"
"Greetings, adventurer. What business do you have here?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"My name is Eiwyn. Who are you?"
"I suppose formal introductions are in order. I am Inquisitor Thorson, sent by my masters in the Dismal Rage to investigate a recent increase in undead activity here."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What is the Dismal Rage?"
"The Dismal Rage looks after the spiritual needs of Freeport's people. We congregate in the Temple of War in North Freeport. We are made up largely of priests, though we do employ other professions from time to time."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What gods do you serve?"
"Though in ancient times our priests served the old gods, we no longer bow to such archaic symbols of authority. Today the Dismal Rage serves the Overlord and our high priestess, Xilania Nevagon."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"If there are no gods around anymore, from where to you draw your power?"
"Some of us believe it was not the gods themselves that were the true power, but rather the planar forces they represented. The ancient gods were symbols, the embodiment of the principles we now serve."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What principles do you mean?"
"We draw our power from many sources, including the principles of Hate, Fear, War, and Decay. There are sects within the Dismal Rage dedicated to all these ideals and more, though we are united in our service to the Overlord and High Priestess Nevagon."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What is this place?"
"You have arrived in the Sunken City, once a thriving district of Freeport. Now it stands as a monument to the madness of those who would have sacrificed our beloved city to the waves."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What do you mean?"
"I will tell you more if you want to hear it, but first I must review the notes I have been taking on what I have observed since my arrival here. To learn a bit more about this place, go through the archway just ahead and speak to an iksar named Saydith Yarr."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I will do it."
"Excellent. Return to me after you have spoken to him."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I'll return shortly."
Saydith Yarr says to you,"Searched this place I have. Seen the dark and the light. Know the stories and the tragedies."
You say to Saydith Yarr,"Where am I?"
"You're on the docks of the Sunken City."
You say to Saydith Yarr,"What do you mean by 'dark and light'?"
"Things change here when it gets cold and dark. Zombies crawl from the shadows to drag the living back with them to their watery grave. Search for the cross if you are looking for death."
You say to Saydith Yarr,"What tragedies?"
"This place was once a district of Freeport, much like the others. Those that lived here were swallowed up by the seas and dragged to the bottom of the ocean, doomed to an eternal existence under the crushing depths."
You say to Saydith Yarr,"I know all I need to about this place."
You say, "Hail, Inquisitor Thorson"
"Did you speak to Saydith Yarr?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Yes, though he seemed to babble a lot."
"Saydith has been here a long time, and I think he has gone a bit mad. I can tell you more about this place if you like, or we can skip all that and you can do some work for me."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I'd like to hear more about the Sunken City."
"What we now call the Sunken City was once a residential district in the northern section of Freeport known affectionately by its residents as Plank's Edge. It was home to many of the sailors and merchants that worked on the docks of East Freeport's bustling shipping trade."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Go on."
"As was typical of a seafaring community, many of the residents worshiped Prexus, the Ocean Lord. Though a boisterous and sometimes rowdy bunch, they lived peaceably enough with the other citizens of Freeport."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Please continue."
"When the Rending began and the seas became impassible, Freeport's harbor fell on hard times. Shipping and trade ground to a halt and the fishing industry collapsed. East Freeport became a ghost town, known more for its crime than for its commerce."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I see."
"In this climate of fear and uncertainty, a half elven extremist named Elwyn Aquel gained a following. He preached that Prexus was angry with Freeport, and only through the hard work and sacrifice of his followers would the seas calm and prosperity return."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Who followed Aquel?"
"Aquel's followers, called the Circle of Darkfathom, quickly rose in prominence among the disgruntled citizens of Plank's Edge. Aquel promised brighter days to these desperate people on the brink of losing everything they had."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Did Aquel really want to help them?"
"Little did the people of Plank's Edge know that they had fallen victim to a madman's scheme. The sacrifice Aquel spoke of was a literal one: he intended to sink Freeport to the bottom of the ocean in a twisted scheme to gain favor with Prexus. He believed that the flood waters would wash away the city and grant him immortality in the process."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Did anyone try to stop him?"
"It was only as Aquel began his ritual of sacrifice that some of his followers saw through his deception. As the ground beneath Plank's Edge began to sink and the flood waters came pouring in, some of the Darkfathom members interrupted Aquel's incantation and broke the spell. Though Freeport was saved, it was too late for the people of Plank's Edge, who drowned beneath the unholy tide. Aquel's body was never recovered."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Was all of Freeport flooded?"
"Thankfully the high walls around the outside of the district held strong, so damage to neighboring parts of Freeport was minimal. Gradually the waters receded but never fully went away, leaving the area all but unlivable. Abandoned by the city's residents, Plank's Edge is now called the Sunken City, a dangerous place haunted by the souls of those who met their doom within."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"This area is haunted?"
"The Sunken City is haunted, by both the spirits of those innocents who died here and by the fallen Prexians who caused this catastrophe. It is said that there are even more spirits who walk these flooded streets after night falls."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What do you want me to do?"
"When the undead are defeated and their spirits are freed, they often leave behind a spectral essence that, if properly analyzed, reveals much about their past. I must find out what is causing the increase in activity among the undead. I need you to obtain four spectral essences from the undead creatures."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I'll do it. Where can I find these creatures?"
"The undead walk just ahead, though some lurk a bit farther in. Remember, more of these ghastly creatures can be found after night falls. Return to me when you have their essences."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I will return."
You say, "Hail, Inquisitor Thorson"
"Hello again. Do you have the spectral essences I asked you to obtain?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Yes, I obtained all four essences."
"Well done! These essences will aid in my research. It will take me some time to study them. While I do that, it may be a good idea for you to have a look around and discover some of the other inhabitants of the Sunken City."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What other inhabitants?"
"This place is home to more than just the spirits of those who died here. I've been told there are a few types of vermin scattered around the Sunken City, and I'd like you to confirm their presence for me."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What kind of vermin?"
"Crabs like to roam in shallow water, so I need a rough estimate of their density here. You should find plenty of brine sifters just through the archway, as well as farther on to the east."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What other creatures?"
"Though a coastal city, Freeport has a very arid climate. Scorpions may be found here on some of the dry portions of ground. You might try going west, then south a bit."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Anything else?"
"Of particular interest to me are the strange rust monsters that scurry around here. There is little information on where they come from, but they showed up in this area after the destruction caused by the Rending. They get their name not only for their brownish color, but for their odd taste for consuming rusty metal. If any of your gear becomes rusty due to the moisture here, be on your guard."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"How do I collect information on these creatures?"
"The Knowledge Book you obtained on the Outpost of the Overlord contains many Abilities that will prove useful to you. Among these Abilities is one called Catalogue Creature. If you draw close to a creature, you can use this ability to obtain information about it. Everything I need to know will be recorded in your Quest Journal. There is no need to attack any of these creatures, simply use the Catalogue Creature ability on them."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I'll return when I'm done."
You say, "Hail, Inquisitor Thorson"
"Greetings once again. Have you studied the local wild creatures?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Yes, I've studied the nearby creatures."
"Well done! Your reputation as a hard worker is well earned. It seems there is no shortage of life here in the Sunken City, even if most of it scuttles about in the shadows."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Are you working alone here?"
"I am not the only one sent here by the Dismal Rage. Some of my allies have ventured deeper into the Sunken City. In fact, since I have completed my examination of the spectral essences you obtained, I need you to take the information to one of them."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Who am I looking for?"
"Seek out Investigator Curfeld, a highly respected member of our order. He has spent a lot of time researching the events that transpired here, and no doubt has some insight into the recent rise in undead activity. Take my findings on the spectral essences and give them to him."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I'll do it. Where can I find him?"
"You can find Investigator Curfeld by going north through the archway, then west and south. He stands past the scorpions you discovered near the gateway to the Graveyard. He knows that additional help is coming, so tell him that I sent you."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I will do so."
You say, "Hail, Investigator Curfeld"
"I'm very busy. What is it that you want from me?"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"My name is Eiwyn. Inquisitor Thorson sent me."
"Thorson, eh? He mentioned a newly arrived hero of Freeport was coming. State your business quickly, for my time is valuable."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"The inquisitor did some research on spectral essences, and he asked me to give it to you."
"Fine, hand it over! Is that all?"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"He mentioned you might need my assistance."
"Assistance? What I need is solitude so that I can complete my research! What is it you think you can offer an investigator who serves the Dismal Rage?"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"I am willing to do whatever is required to serve Freeport."
"Well, come to think of it, there is some work you could do for me. As you know, I've been here in the Sunken City for a while now, conducting some important research."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"Looking into the increase in undead activity, correct?"
"Yes, undead activity... of course. At any rate, some of my research has been stolen, and it is vital I get it back. I need you to retrieve it for me."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"Who do you suspect has stolen it?"
"I have observed a gang of pirates operating in the abandoned houses to the north. I believe they call themselves the Blackshields, a group of thugs based on the shores of the Commonlands. It is my belief that they are using the Sunken City as a place to store their stolen treasures."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"Where should I look for your research papers?"
"My observers tell me that the Blackshields are concealing stolen goods in the old wooden barrels scattered about to the north. Be careful, though. They're an unruly bunch that won't hesitate to attack someone they think might be after their ill-gotten gain."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"I will watch my back."
You say, "Hail, Investigator Curfeld"
"Have you retrieved my research materials from the Blackshields yet?"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"Yes, I found a notebook in an old barrel."
"Excellent! You may prove useful to me after all. I wonder if I can now entrust you with a more crucial task."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"I'm ready for anything."
"Back when this place was known as Plank's Edge, the followers of Prexus built a shrine to the Ocean Lord. I need to know if any part of that shrine still exists, and if so, whether it still resonates with any usable divine power."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"What do you mean by "usable"?"
"Do not question me! You are not experienced enough in the ways of the Dismal Rage to understand these matters. Will you undertake this mission or not?"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"No need to be so testy! I will do it."
"Then be about your work. Find whatever remains of the shrine of Prexus and tell me if it has any remnants of its former power. Beware, for the corpses of the Darkfathom followers may still be guarding their once holy place."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"I will be careful."
"I heard the shrine used to be found in the northern central part of Plank's Edge. Try going east a bit, then north. Return to me when you have the knowledge I require."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"I will do so. Hopefully I'll be in one piece."
You say, "Hail, Investigator Curfeld"
"Did you find the shrine of Prexus? Does it still resonate with power?"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"I've found the ruined shrine, and it has an eerie hum surrounding it."
"Magnificent news! Then it might still be possible! This confirms all my fondest hopes!"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"What may still be possible?"
"Uh... nothing! You have no right to question me! Go back to Thorson, for I have no further use for you."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"Inquisitor Thorson said he needed information from you to complete his report."
"Why must I be constantly bogged down by the trivialities of lesser beings? Fine, anything to be rid of you. Take this journal to Thorson and trouble me no more."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"I'll take it to him."
You say, "Hail, Inquisitor Thorson"
"Thank you for assisting the Dismal Rage in investigating the Sunken City. Has Investigator Curfeld made any crucial discoveries?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Yes, he asked me to bring this journal to you."
"Ah, thank you. I am glad to have someone of his expertise in charge of these matters. I will look through his journal as I prepare to return to North Freeport to present my report. If I may ask, what did the investigator have you do?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"First he had me uncover what some unsavory pirates are doing in the area."
"Pirates, eh? I'd heard rumors of their kind stashing their goods around here. I guess they figured no one would go looking for stolen goods in a place that is haunted by the spirits of the past. I assume he asked you to report their activity to the Freeport Militia."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"No, he just had me retrieve some documents that were in their possession."
"Documents? Well, surely Investigator Curfeld knows what's best. What else did he ask you to do?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"He had me investigate a ruined shrine to Prexus that was guarded by zombies."
"The ruins of that ancient shrine are certainly cursed. No doubt he asked you to destroy the shrine and sanctify the ground."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Uh, actually not. He just asked me to find out whether it still emanated mystical energy."
"What? I don't understand it. Why would he not want the shrine destroyed, especially if it still has arcane power? Let me see if he explains it in this journal."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I'm sure there must be a good explanation."
"Wait... what is going on? This journal isn't about ending the threat of the undead and keeping Freeport safe. It contains notes on how to recreate the spell used by Elwyn Aquel and the Circle of Darkfathom to destroy our city!"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Why would he have such notes?"
"I'd heard it said that members of the investigator's family were worshipers of Prexus. They must have been members of the Circle of Darkfathom. Our city is in grave danger! We have to stop him!"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"What should we do?"
"There's no time to waste! Curfeld must not be allowed to complete this unholy ritual. The safety of Freeport itself is at stake! Go back and face him. You must put an end to his foul scheme before all is lost."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I will. But what if he refuses to surrender?"
"You have my full authority to take whatever action is necessary. Fear not; I will ensure that the high priestess and the rest of the Dismal Rage know that your actions were necessary to save our city. Do this, and not only will you be rewarded but your fame will grow. Hurry, go!"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"I will return... I hope."
You say, "Hail, Investigator Curfeld"
"You again! I thought I sent you back to Thorson."
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"You did, and we found some rather disturbing notes in your journal."
"In my journal? What do you... oh, I, uh, seem to have given you the wrong notes to take to him. Just some old scribbles, nothing too interesting. You two didn't read it, did you?"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"Indeed we did. You have some explaining to do."
"I do not need to explain myself to lesser beings like you. Soon I will recreate Aquel's ritual, only this time I will succeed in sinking Freeport to the bottom of the ocean. And the delicious irony is that you are the one who helped me do it!"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"You're a madman!"
"When I have caused the waters to rise and drown this city, Prexus will return and bless me with unlimited power! Even the Overlord's floating citadel will sink to the depths, leaving me to rule all of Norrath!"
You say to Investigator Curfeld,"Oh no you won't, Curfeld!"
You have killed Investigator Curfeld.
You say, "Hail, Inquisitor Thorson"
"You're back! Did you stop Investigator Curfeld?"
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"His plans are foiled. Freeport is safe."
"Splendid work! I cannot express how pleased I am with all you have done for us. Your name shall be known within the Dismal Rage as a true hero. I would not be surprised if the Overlord himself hears of your actions this day. Please, take this reward as a token of thanks."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"It was my pleasure to serve. Do you have any other tasks for me?"
"I must remain here to finish my report for the Dismal Rage. However, I would like you to journey to the Freeport Ruins and seek out an acquaintance of mine named Captain Arellius. I have heard that your help is much needed there. I will send word that you are coming, hero of Freeport."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"How do I get there?"
"The fastest route to the Ruins is to use the mariner's bell at the end of the dock for traveling outside the city proper. This will summon transportation to take you to the Ruins, where Captain Arellius of the Freeport Militia will be awaiting your assistance."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Are there any other places you could recommend where I can find adventures?"
"You can speak to Custodian Zaddar in the Graveyard and Enforcer Kurdek in the Sprawl. They both could use assistance from an able adventurer."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Tell me more about Custodian Zaddar."
"Custodian Zaddar in the Graveyard is trying to determine what's behind a recent increase in undead attacks. Use the mariner's bell on the docks of your home district to travel to Stonestair Byway. Head west until you see a passage to the south. The gate at the end leads to the Graveyard."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Tell me more about Enforcer Kurdek."
"Enforcer Kurdek in the Sprawl could use a hand keeping the local gangs in line. To journey to the Sprawl, use the mariner's bell on the docks of your home district to travel to Big Bend. Follow the halls north, then take the west passageway to the west gate."
You say to Inquisitor Thorson,"Thank you for the advice."