Balrog
A (fortunately) seldom encountered demon-like being of uncertain origin. Unlike demonic avatars, Balrogs appear fully physically manifested on Alusia.
Some sources claim the creatures are examples of fallen semi-divine beings from earlier ages of the world while another purported creator of these dire beings is Baal, the first of the ancient dragons and perhaps the first Alusian power of darkness. According to certain ancient sources Baal created the Baal-rukhs (or Birds of Baal) as part of his plan to throw down the mortal realms.
The presence of Balrogs in proximity to two of the imprisoned sons of Baal, Ahriman and Istu may add credence to this claim.
Most of the few balrogs encountered have been titan-sized or larger, appear to burn from within, and are shrouded in fire and shadow. They may appear to have wings of shadow but it is unclear whether they can fly.
Known Balrogs
Garthron
Discovered in dwarven mines in the Dragonspine Mountains in the north of Bowcourt, Garthron was watching over the tomb-prison of Ahriman. This balrog had an unusual distinguising mark - it was missing its left hand, which had been replaced with one made of a crystalline substance.
The Balrog used threats to have a guild party bring it an Egg from off-plane that unlocked the tomb, freeing Ahriman. The freed Ahriman subsequently dismissed Garthron (much to the Balrog's dismay).
Garthron later encountered another Guild party and in the ensuing combat its glass had came into contact with a holy object and exploded with some odd and enduring side-effects for the party members involved.
Garthron's current whereabouts are unknown. Garthron's missing hand is believed to be stored (still alive) at the "Plains Guild" hall.
"Istu's Balrog"
The name of this balrog is unknown but it was encountered in the Microverse watching over the tomb-prison of Istu. Little is known of this being other than it would issues challenges to games of chess (and then cheat).
It is known that by the time of Quest for Lost Dragons in Spring 802 WK, Istu was gone from the Microverse and the balrog is believed to have departed with him.
The Shape of Fire
May or may not be a balrog. The Shape of Fire is believed to spend most of his time under the Filgiso Forest, awaiting the day he can burn everything.
