In the bustling Market District of the Imperial City, a subtle trade war has emerged, creating a perfect storm of rumors and disputes. For players diving into Oblivion Remastered, this presents an excellent opportunity to engage in an investigation that rewards early enthusiasts with powerful weapons, specifically a Mace and a Sword.
The Unfriendly Competition quest is a notable highlight, offering players a compelling mystery to unravel. Not only does it serve the narrative, but it also equips newcomers with essential tools to face off against formidable foes, including bandits and assassins from the Dark Brotherhood.
Initiating the Unfriendly Competition Quest
To embark on this quest and obtain the coveted Debaser and Calliben’s Grim Retort, players first need to engage with one of three merchants in the Imperial City’s Market District:
- Tertullian Verus (Three Brothers Trade Goods)
- Claudette Perrick (The Gilded Carafe)
- Ogier Georick (The Main Ingredient)
By discussing Thoronir with any of these merchants, players will receive guidance to visit Jensine at Jensine’s “Good as New”Merchandise. Conversations with Jensine will unveil a situation involving Thoronir, allowing players to decide whether to assist the Society of Concerned Merchants in their investigation.
Eavesdrop on Thoronir’s Midnight Talks
Following Jensine’s instructions, head over to The Copious Coinpurse to meet with Thoronir. Select the inventory option while speaking with him; although he may not be forthcoming, this step is necessary. Afterward, players should safely exit and time-skip until approximately 11 PM.
The goal now is to covertly follow Thoronir as he leaves for a garden area with a stone fountain located in the back left of the Market District around midnight. To enhance your stealth, consider removing any armor to minimize noise while maintaining a safe distance to observe his actions. This will trigger a crucial cutscene.
Locating Agarmir’s House and Securing the Macabre Manifest
After eavesdropping on the secret conversation between Thoronir and Agarmir, players must now track Agarmir to his residence in the Talos Plaza District. Once there, it’s advisable to wait a few hours until he vacates his home, allowing players the opportunity to explore.
Agarmir’s schedule varies by day; here are the times he typically leaves his house:
| Day | Time |
|---|---|
| Sundas | 8 AM – 8 PM |
| Morndas | 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Tirdas | 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Middas | 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Turdas | 4 PM – 8 PM |
| Fredas | 5 PM – 7 PM |
| Loredas | 8 AM – 8 PM |
Upon Agarmir’s departure, it’s time to break out the lockpicks for a heist! Access his basement to uncover the Macabre Manifest, a book detailing the graves Agarmir has been disturbing. Remember to bring this valuable piece of evidence back to Thoronir, who will be more than willing to assist in capturing Agarmir by implicating him in his own crime.
Claiming Calliben’s Grim Retort & Debaser
Thoronir will guide players to the Trentius Family Mausoleum located on Green Emperor Way, a graveyard that serves as the backdrop for the quest’s climax. Inside, players will encounter Agarmir, who has set a trap alongside an armored henchman. Engaging in this battle is crucial, as defeating Agarmir will reward players with the Debaser, an enchanted weapon that drains Willpower and Endurance from its foes.
In addition, players can discover Calliben’s Grim Retort, an Elven Mace that offers perks such as Absorb Strength, Absorb Blunt, and Frost Damage, tucked away behind the tomb of Calliben Trentius.
Once you’ve claimed the loot, collect the Muddy Shovel near the damaged grave and take the Trentius Mausoleum Key from Agarmir’s remains. Return to Thoronir to receive the Weathered Circlet, which provides resistance to Fire and Frost. Finally, connect back with Jensine, who generously offers a reward of approximately 200 gold for your efforts.