If you’re a fan of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, you’ve likely heard of the “Lost to the Ages” quest — one of the most intriguing and rewarding side quests added in the Dawnguard DLC. This quest takes players deep into Dwemer (Dwarven) ruins, challenging them with puzzles, enemies, and the promise of Aetherium-powered artifacts. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about completing Lost to the Ages in Skyrim.
What Is “Lost to the Ages” in Skyrim?
“Lost to the Ages” is a side quest introduced in the Dawnguard expansion of Skyrim. It revolves around the ancient and mysterious Aetherium, a rare and powerful crystal used by the Dwemer for their advanced technologies. Your goal is to find four Aetherium Shards, uncover the secrets of Aetherium Forge, and craft a unique artifact.
How to Start “Lost to the Ages”
To begin this quest:
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Install the Dawnguard DLC (required).
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Find and read the book “The Aetherium Wars”, found in several locations including:
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Fort Dawnguard
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Castle Volkihar
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Bard’s College in Solitude
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Dragonsreach in Whiterun
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After reading the book, the quest “Lost to the Ages” will begin and mark your first objective: investigate the ruins of Arkngthamz.
Arkngthamz: First Ruin in the Lost to the Ages Quest
Where to Find Arkngthamz
Arkngthamz is located in The Reach, southeast of Dushnikh Yal. When you enter, you’ll encounter the ghost of Katria, a former adventurer who died trying to uncover the secrets of Aetherium.
Solving the Resonator Puzzle
Inside Arkngthamz, you’ll face a puzzle involving resonators — spinning mechanisms you need to hit in the correct order with arrows or ranged spells. Hitting them in the wrong order triggers traps.
Correct Resonator Order (left to right):
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Bottom Left
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Bottom Right
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Top Left
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Top Right
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Center
Solving the puzzle unlocks the path forward and earns your first Aetherium Shard.
Finding the Four Aetherium Shards
You’ll need four Aetherium Shards to complete the quest. Here are the shard locations:
1. Arkngthamz
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Location: The Reach
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Status: First shard, acquired after completing the resonator puzzle.
2. Raldbthar
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Location: Northeast of Whiterun, near Windhelm.
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Tips: Expect Falmer and Dwarven automatons. Proceed to the end of the dungeon to find the shard near a Dwarven Mechanism.
3. Deep Folk Crossing
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Location: Northwest of Karthwasten.
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Tips: No dungeon; it’s a simple Dwemer bridge with a pedestal. The shard is on the pedestal.
4. Mzulft
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Location: East of Windhelm.
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Tips: You don’t need to go through the entire dungeon—head to the Dwarven Storeroom just outside the main entrance. The shard is inside.
Aetherium Forge: The Final Destination
Once you have all four shards, Katria will guide you to the final location: The Aetherium Forge, hidden within the ruins of Bthar-Zel (also known as the Ruins of Deep Folk Crossing).
Unlocking the Forge
Combine the four shards at the Aetherium Crest Pedestal, which opens the path to the forge. Inside, you’ll fight waves of enemies including:
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Dwarven Spiders
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Dwarven Spheres
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Falmer
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A powerful Forgemaster (boss)
Defeating the Forgemaster allows you to access the Aetherium Forge itself.
Choosing Your Aetherium Artifact
Once you reach the forge, you can use the Aetherium Crest and Dwarven Metal Ingots to craft one of three unique items. You can only choose one, so pick wisely.
1. Aetherial Shield
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Effect: Bashes enemies and makes them ethereal for 15 seconds (they cannot attack or be attacked).
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Best For: Warriors or tank builds.
2. Aetherial Crown
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Effect: Allows you to store a second Standing Stone power.
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Best For: Hybrid builds and strategic players.
3. Aetherial Staff
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Effect: Summons a Dwarven Spider or Sphere for 60 seconds.
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Best For: Mages or summoner builds.
Tips for Completing Lost to the Ages
Bring a Follower
Some areas are tough with powerful enemies. Having a follower can help distract enemies during fights, especially in the Aetherium Forge.
Carry a Bow or Ranged Magic
The resonator puzzles and many Dwemer traps are easier to deal with at a distance.
Save Often
Dwemer ruins are filled with traps, and the final battle can be overwhelming. Quick-saving before key events is highly recommended.
Why Lost to the Ages Is a Must-Play Quest
“Lost to the Ages” stands out as one of the best side quests in Skyrim for several reasons:
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Rich lore: Discover ancient Dwemer secrets and technology.
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Rewarding exploration: Travel across multiple ruins and hidden locations.
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Unique gear: The Aetherial artifacts are among the most powerful in the game.
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Memorable characters: Katria’s story adds emotional depth and mystery.
Conclusion: Conquer the Past, Claim the Future
The “Lost to the Ages” Skyrim quest is a thrilling journey through the remnants of the ancient Dwemer civilization. It’s a perfect mix of exploration, combat, puzzles, and lore. Whether you’re playing Skyrim for the first time or revisiting it years later, this quest remains one of the most rewarding experiences the game has to offer.
So grab your bow, prepare your spells, and dive into the mysteries of Aetherium—a power truly lost to the ages.
