In Diablo 4's arid Dry Steppes, the "Hunting the Relic Hunter" side quest unveils the perils of cursed artifacts in Rakhaan's curio obsession. Part of the Curious Curios chain, this quest blends exploration, combat, and dark lore. Start after completing Curious Curios: speak to Diablo IV Items Rakhaan at Fate's Retreat in Chambatar Ridge. Ask, "Where is this other relic?" He reveals sending hunter Abaan, now missing in The Accursed Wastes.
Journey to the Foothills of Saraan
Fast-travel to Ruins of Qara-Yisu waypoint (unlock the Stronghold first). Head south to Foothills of Saraan amid petrified corpses signaling ancient curses. Locate Abaan near a Mysterious Pot glowing with malevolent energy. Speak to him: "Are you Rakhaan's hunter?" He requests aid slaying skeletons guarding the relic.
Abaan investigates the pot, but it petrifies him instantly—another victim of its necrotic power. Skeletons erupt: two Archers, a Corpse Axe. Dispatch them swiftly with AoE skills like Whirlwind (Barbarian) or Firewall (Sorcerer) to avoid overwhelm.
Battle the Undead Horde
More foes spawn: additional Archers, two Skeleton Captains, and Abaan as the Undead Relic Hunter—an Elite with fire affix. Prioritize minions for breathing room, then focus Abaan. His fiery bursts demand mobility—dodge rolls and crowd control like stuns excel here. Use potions for fire resistance if underleveled (recommended 25+). Victory reveals the pot's curse: petrification via dark magic tied to Sanctuary's ancient evils.
Retrieve the Malevolent Relic
Search the Mysterious Pot (channel uninterrupted). The Malevolent Relic emerges, pulsing corruption. Interact to perform a gesture spell—hold the prompt to teleport it safely to Rakhaan. This ritual echoes Druidic attunements, hinting at deeper lore connections.
Rakhaan arrives north of the site. Speak: "Your hunter was petrified." He mourns briefly but eyes the relic eagerly, advancing his collection. Quest completes, granting ~10,000 XP (scales), gold, an Ore Cache, and Dry Steppes Renown (unlocks skill points, vendors).
Tips and Secrets
Combat Prep: Fire-resistant gear counters Abaan's Elite affix. Clear nearby mobs first.
Bugs: If Rakhaan won't interact, switch World Tiers.
Chain Quest: Talk to D4 Gold for sale
Rakhaan again for "More than Meets the Eye," finale of the trilogy completing Curious Curios Challenge.
Lore Tie-In: Relics foreshadow demonic pacts; collect all for Rakhaan's twist.
This quest exemplifies Diablo 4's side content: quick yet rewarding, blending action with narrative hooks. Venture into the wastes—cursed treasures await the bold.
