6.1: Introduction

Get ready to dive into Thief: The Dark Project! This intro guide sets the stage, introducing the Hammerites, Cutty's predicament, and your mission to break him out of their prison. Learn about the quarry, mines, and the path ahead.

Alright, let's get started with Thief: The Dark Project! Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, it's good to get a feel for the world and what's going on. You'll hear a lot about the Hammerites and their rather strict beliefs, as hinted at in this quote from their 'Hammer Book of Tenets':

"Before death came, the liars were made to feast upon the hands of the thieves, and the thieves were made to ingest the tongues of their liar brothers, and we praised the Master Builder for his judgements."

So, what's the immediate situation? Well, your associate Cutty, who's a pretty important fence for you (meaning he fences stolen goods, and you need him!), has gotten himself into trouble. You went to his place to deliver a scepter, but he wasn't there. Turns out, the Hammerites, who really don't like his line of work (and probably wouldn't approve of yours either!), have arrested him.

Now, you've got a job to do: break Cutty out of their prison. This place isn't just any old jail; it's a mining complex carved right out of a quarry. The quarry itself is flooded, but the Hammerites are still actively mining the upper levels and have repurposed some of the complex into a penitentiary for anyone who 'violates' their rules. Sounds like they're not too keen on people who don't follow their strict doctrines.

Luckily, you've got a bit of an inside track. An associate who was previously held there has given you a map. Getting in through the main gate looks like a real headache, so you'll be taking a less conventional route. The mines actually break through the surface of a hill south of the quarry. Your plan is to drop into these mines and make your way towards the prison. According to the intel, it's located somewhere uphill and to the north. The good news is, the Hammerites tend to avoid these lower mine levels – they say they're haunted, which is perfect for you!

Honestly, you'd rather not be doing this, but Cutty is a reliable fence, and you don't take kindly to the Hammerites snatching him. Plus, he still owes you money from that Bafford job. So, get ready, because we're heading into the mines!