In the world of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, acquiring the full set of Ahzidal’s Armor and all his relics is a rewarding yet challenging endeavor. To collect each piece, you must embark on the quest “Unearthed,” which involves several investment stages and combat challenges. Below is a detailed guide to help you navigate through this quest and obtain every piece of Ahzidal’s unique gear.
Quest Initiation: Unearthed
Start by meeting Ralis Sedarys outside of Kolbjorn Barrow, located northeast of the Old Attius Farm. He requests 1,000 gold to begin the excavation, promising a share of the treasure. Here is how the excavation and collection process breaks down:
- Stage One: 1,000 gold
- Stage Two: 2,000 gold
- Stage Three: 3,000 gold
- Stage Four: 5,000 gold
Collection of Ahzidal’s Relics
First Visit
After making your initial investment, wait a few days until a courier delivers a message from Ralis. When you return to Kolbjorn Barrow, you’ll find that draugr have been disturbed, killing all the miners. Clear the draugr and retrieve Ahzidal’s Boots of Waterwalking from a pedestal in the newly accessible chamber. Speak to Ralis, who will ask for an additional 2,000 gold to hire more miners.
Second Visit
Several days later, you’ll receive another message. Upon returning to the barrow, clear the draugr and locate the missing miners. Nearby, you will find a hidden room containing Ahzidal’s Ring of Necromancy. Afterward, Ralis will request 3,000 gold for further excavation.
Third Visit
Upon receiving the third message, return to the barrow to clear more draugr. To obtain Ahzidal’s Gauntlets of Warding, pull a nearby chain and navigate back to the pedestal. In this phase, you can also acquire the valuable Ahzidal’s Ring of Arcana from another hidden room. Speak to Ralis, who will now need 5,000 gold for the final excavation.
Fourth Visit: Confrontation
The final message from Ralis indicates a dire situation. Return to Kolbjorn Barrow, where you will finally gain access to the word wall teaching the Cyclone shout. Navigate through more traps and draugr to collect Ahzidal’s Armor of Retribution and Ahzidal’s Helm of Vision. Solve puzzles involving totem pillars to access these pieces.
Final Battle and Rewards
Upon reaching the final chamber, you will find Ralis performing a ritual to awaken Ahzidal. Defeat the dragon priest and loot Ahzidal’s Mask from his corpse. Speak with Ralis; you can choose to kill him or let him live. If spared, he becomes available as a follower. If killed, loot Hoarfrost, a unique pickaxe, from his body.
Notes on the Quest
- The total investment required is 11,000 gold.
- Always wait three full days between investments.
- Read and take care with Ralis’ journals, as they provide insight but can also cause bugs if taken early.
Completing this quest not only tests your combat and problem-solving skills but also rewards you with some of the most unique and powerful gear in Skyrim. Through persistence and strategic investments, you can claim the full set of Ahzidal’s Armor and all his relics, enhancing your character’s capabilities significantly.