As a passionate Diablo gamer and content creator, I‘ve played through the Closing the Book quest multiple times. Over many hours exploring the dark dungeons and demon-infested lands of Hawezar, I‘ve uncovered helpful insights to master this side quest.
In this ultimate walkthrough, I‘ll share everything you need to swiftly complete the Closing the Book mission to add Renown to your growing list of accomplishments.
Overview of the Closing the Book Quest
This optional quest takes place in Hawezar‘s southeastern realm of Oblivion Peak. It has you tracking down lost village ledger pages for an elder named Akros.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Length: Short
- Level Requirement: None
- Location: Hawezar
Before you embark, I recommend being at least level 5. The flaming skeletons and Lurking Torments you‘ll face range from levels 3 to 8.
Now, let‘s get into the details!
Step 1: Unlock the Quest
First, you need to unlock access to Elder Akros by conquering the Eriman‘s Pyre stronghold.
As a passionate Diablo veteran, I suggest battling your way through Eriman‘s Pyre at level 6 or higher. The hordes of Fallen, Bile Lords, and corrupted villagers can overwhelm the unprepared.
Here are the objectives to completing the stronghold:
- Reach the stronghold boss, DuzAgur the Eriman‘s Bane
- Defeat DuzAgur in close quarters combat
- Interact with the Wanderer‘s Shrine to complete the conquest
With DuzAgur dead, a new path will open granting you the right to speak with Elder Akros.
Step 2: Find the Missing Ledger Pages
Make your way northwest to the Dismal Foothills and talk to Elder Akros to begin the quest. He desperately needs help recovering important village records.
Akros will transport you back to Eriman‘s Pyre where your search will begin. Your map will now display the quest‘s scavenger hunt area.
Time to collect those lost pages!
Page #1
The first smoldering ledger rests along the northeast border of the search zone. Look for the collapsed Ruins of Langbokeh near flaming skeletons.
I don‘t recommend taking on the 5 Lurking Torments at once. Use stealth takedowns on lone skeletons to avoid unnecessary risk. Then grab Page #1 from the ruins once clear.
Location: Ruins of Langbokeh
Page #2
The Necromancer Mala-Kesh holds this page among the skeletal remains of a ravaged hamlet along the eastern boundary.
He begins summoning skeletons immediately so hit this level 8 boss with everything you‘ve got. Dodge his Bone Spear by staying mobile.
Once his minions fall, Claim Page #2 from Mala-Kesh‘s corpse.
Location: Ruined Hamlet
Boss Name: Mala-Kesh, Necromancer of Ruin
Page #3
The southern page sits unguarded on a decimated cottage floor. This one is an easy grab after eliminating the surrounding Lurking Torments.
I prefer keeping my distance, peppering these fiery fiends with ice arrows and frost shards from the neighborhood rooftops. You‘ll find Page #3 among the carnage once clear.
Location: Abandoned Cottage
Page #4
The final page sits unprotected along the northwestern border. Flayed corpses decorate the path to the ominous Oblivion dungeon where Page #4 lies for the taking.
After admiring the gruesome remains, grab the last page to complete Akros‘ task. I‘d also recommend backtracking here after finishing the quest. Oblivion hides valuable loot for those brave enough to explore its abyssal confines.
Location: Oblivion Dungeon Entrance
Step 3: Return the Pages for Your Reward
Once you‘ve claimed all four ledger pages, go back and talk to Elder Akros to complete the quest. Handing over the recovered records rewards you with:
- 20 Renown
- Gold
- Experience
Now let‘s breakdown if the effort is truly worth the reward.
Breakdown of Quest Rewards
Here is a comparison table detailing the quest reward ratios:
| Reward | Amount |
|---|---|
| Renown | 20 |
| Gold | 158 at level 10 |
| XP | 1,720 at level 10 |
*The gold and XP rewards scale based on your character‘s level. The tables above show level 10 values.
Twenty renown is excellent for a short quest. That alone makes it worthwhile. The gold and experience simply sweeten the pot.
If you‘re still low level, the XP will give you a nice boost. The gold also lets you buy potions, armor repairs, skill upgrades, etc. Nothing crazy but useful.
All things considered, I‘d recommend all players complete this quick, early game quest. The ledger locations reveal extra dungeons perfect for grinding too!
Tips and Strategies for Success
Take these tips from a Diablo veteran to safely secure all four lost ledger pages:
Useful Damage Types
The flaming skeletons and Lurking Torments are weak to these damage types:
| Enemy | Weakness |
|---|---|
| Flaming Skeletons | Frost |
| Lurking Torments | Lightning |
Load up on ice and lightning skills before starting this quest. Slow effects like Frozen Orb can also help when outnumbered.
Level Recommendations
| Difficulty | Recommended Level |
|---|---|
| Normal | 6 |
| Hard | 16 |
I suggest hitting at least level 6 on normal mode before attempting this quest. Hard difficulty is best saved for level 16 and beyond.
Watch Out For Ambushes
Many ledger page locations harbor clusters of enemies that ambush as you approach. Utilize scouting ravens or stealth skills to plan safe attack strategies.
Also lure lone enemies away from their patrols for easier takedowns. Isolate and eliminate them one-by-one when possible.
Stock Up On Health Potions
The hordes of skeletons and Lurking Torments can overwhelm unprepared warriors. Carry extra minor health potions in case of emergencies:
- Minor Healing Potion x10
- Minor Rejuvenation Potion x10
You want to avoid retreating to town as dying resets all quest progress. So pack potions and use them liberally!
Is the Quest Reward Worth It?
For 20 Renown alone, this simple side quest is worthwhile, especially early in your campaign. The gold and experience are nice bonuses too.
The ledger page locations also reveal extra dungeons ripe for exploration and grinding. Plus, the enemies fought along the way provide crafting materials and item drops.
I highly recommend all Diablo 4 players complete the Closing the Book mission. It kickstarts your Renown earnings while uncovering new challenges waiting beyond Hawezar‘s mountains.
Now get out there, champion! Adventure awaits!
