In The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered, there’s a variety of player homes available. Some are charming little cottages while others are opulent mansions, often selling for a hefty sum of gold. Most homes can be bought easily if you have the coin, but the property in Anvil is a special case.
One notable residence is Benirus Manor. Although it’s quite expensive, it’s also one of the largest and most luxurious homes in the game. However, purchasing it is just the beginning, as a whole quest unfolds once you become its owner.
How to Start the Where Spirits Have Lease Quest
To kick off this quest, you need to head to Anvil, located in the southwest region of the map. Once there, visit The Count’s Arms, the inn situated to the right of the Anvil Main Gate. Here, you’ll meet the owner of the Manor, Velwyn Benirus.
Inquire about the Manor, and he’ll offer it for 5,000 gold. After you make the payment, he’ll hand you the key. You can then proceed to Benirus Manor, which lies west of the Main Gate.
How to Lift the Curse at Benirus Manor
Once inside the Manor, you’ll notice it’s in disarray. Go upstairs and sleep in the bed to progress the quest. After awakening, you’ll find yourself under attack by ghosts from Benirus Manor. Defeat them to advance the storyline.
Next, head downstairs towards the dresser near the main entrance. You’ll discover a vase that’s been toppled over, along with a skeletal hand emerging from it. Be sure to collect the note and skeletal hand, as new ghosts will appear.
If the hand or the note doesn’t drop after defeating the ghosts, reload an earlier save to try again, as this can sometimes be a glitch.
Unfortunately, the Manor you just bought is cursed. You’ll need to return to Velwyn Benirus and discuss this issue with him. Visit The Count’s Arms again and talk to the bartender about Velwyn. He’ll inform you that Velwyn has headed to the Imperial City right after your purchase.
Travel to the Imperial City, specifically the Elven Gardens District, and locate The King and Queen Tavern on your right upon arrival. Once inside, have another chat with Velwyn Benirus about the Manor, then about Lorgen Benirus and the curse.
If you possess the Scrap from Lorgren’s Diary and have built up Velwyn’s disposition to over 60, he’ll agree to assist in breaking the curse. He’ll ask you to meet him back at The Count’s Arms.
How to Complete the Where Spirits Have Lease Quest
After you convince Velwyn to help, follow him back to The Count’s Arms in Anvil. Once there, confirm you’re ready to proceed. He will lead you to the Manor, instructing you to take the lead to the basement. Be prepared to fight against respawning ghosts as you proceed.
Make your way through the ghosts until you reach the end of the basement where a bloody red symbol on the wall can be found. Velwyn will open a hidden wall and disappear. Step inside to find Lorgen’s remains. Interact with the altar, and Lorgen will speak to you about his need for repentance.
He’ll ask you to return his hand (simply retrieve it from the skeleton). Lorgen will reveal his betrayal and lock the door, returning as a ghostly lich. Defeat Lorgen Benirus to finally break the curse. Following your victory, return to the main floor.
You’ll notice that the curse has been lifted, returning your manor to its normal state. Go back to The Count’s Arms and speak to Velwyn Benirus one last time. After this final conversation, the quest concludes, and your home will no longer be haunted!
