The Up Where They Walk side quest in Dragon Quest XI offers players a poignant narrative moment set within the underwater realm of Nautica. By assisting a curious mermaid who wishes to reconnect with a voice from her past, you earn valuable experience and rewards while exploring the world. Following a straightforward travel path ensures you can complete this objective quickly without missing crucial story details.
Unlocking the Quest in Nautica
To initiate the mission, travel to the sunken kingdom of Nautica after completing your initial audience with Queen Marina. Locate the mermaid client positioned outside the palace gates, who expresses a fondness for a song sung by a surface dweller many years ago. She requests that you venture above the waves to locate the singer and learn his memorable melody.
Because time passes differently for mermaids, the young singer she remembers has aged significantly over the decades. Your journey requires visiting the coastal city of Gondolia to track down the man in question.
Finding the Musician in Gondolia
Fast travel or sail to Gondolia and navigate toward the northwestern side of the city near the lookout tower. Look for an elderly man standing near the stone architecture who spent his youth singing by the sea. Speak with him to share the mermaid's message and listen as he performs his signature song for you.
Once the Luminary memorizes the tune, your objective in Gondolia is complete. You can easily consult a Up Where They Walk DQ11 Quest Walkthrough if you have trouble pinpointing the exact NPC location on your mini-map.
Returning to Complete the Mission
Cast the Zoom spell to return directly to Nautica and head back toward the royal palace grounds. Approach the mermaid quest giver and choose to perform the learned melody for her. Touched by the familiar song and the memory of her long-lost friend, she expresses her gratitude and grants you your reward.
Completing this quest adds a heartfelt piece of lore to your journey while marking another side mission off your quest log. It serves as a brief but touching reminder of the bonds shared between land and sea in Erdrea.
