The Lost Mines of Hrendir
A Primordial Mistake
The Dwarves of Kazadum had built themselves a mighty city, rich with mead and minerals. They bathed in the blessings unrightfully taken from their mountains, until finally they took enough. Striking an exceptionally shallow leyline, they woke a creature of pain and hunger from its slumber in the deep. The Balrog showed no mercy, its crackling whip setting Hrendir and its workers alight until every dwarf within was burnt to a crisp. Setting its sights on the next settlement, it took its fury to the gates of Kazadum where the dwarves managed to best it in an epic final stand.
Though the Balrog fell, it took the dwarven people with it. Their glory, riches, purpose, and many of their beloved all were lost in the blaze. The mountain still burns, but none of the gold has ever run down the mountainsides. Perhaps there is a way to quench these flames and reclaim the treasure trapped within, but none have found it yet.