The Maps of Myrist

Paineel is the city of the Cazicites, the powerful necromancers who once lived among the High Men of Erudin but were outcast due to their unfailing interest in the dark arts. Referred to as "Heretics" by the Erudites, the Cazicites relocated to one of the most powerful and naturally magical areas in all of Norrath.

Burrowed deep into the sides of The Hole, the dark city of Paineel is seldom visited by outsiders. Most die on the journey down before ever seeing the black spires of stone that mark the entrance to the city. Strangers are never welcome unless they have something desirable to offer. Regardless of the nature of the visit, a sacrifice of blood is required to gain entry.

Acceptable guests who manage to survive the treacherous descent of the Hidden Lift will first encounter the Grand Staircase, the site of Paineel's thriving bazaar. Goods and services not found elsewhere in the city can be found here. The columns and pool at the foot of the Grand Staircase honor the memory of the hero Dartain; many of the notables of Paineel can be found here contemplating the Dark Truth.

The Fell Blade is the name of both the Paineel militia and the Shadowknights who follow the doctrine of Cazic-Thule. The leader of the Fell Blade, Mandaril Dark Knife, can usually be found in the main hall of the Fell Blade. If not, he will be at the Tabernacle of Terror conferring with the leadership of the Harbingers of Fear.

The shop of the great smith, Faratain, can be found in the militia house. Faratain and his brother Darton are direct descendants of Dartain. Darton is a necromancer and member of the Seekers of the Dark Truth. He uses his art to imbue power in the weapons created by his brother.

Screams and shrieks are the only greeting that most people will receive as they enter the grounds of the Abattoir, the home of the Seekers of the Dark Truth. The loud noises are an unavoidable by-product of the research conducted therein. The Seekers are a guild of necromancers who dedicate themselves to the pursuit of what lies behind the veil of death, that Dark Truth which they have glimpsed, but do not yet fully comprehend. While all citizens of Paineel describe themselves as Seekers of the Dark Truth, only official members are fully vested with the secret knowledge of the guild.