Place 3: Duriel’s Curse – The Balrog
Duriel’s Curse is one of several Balrogs, terrifying demons that belonged to the Lord of All Evil, Morgoth.
Many Balrogs were banished after Morgoth’s downfall, but this one survived in the mines of Moria. He is a terrible and ancient foe who encounters the Fellowship during their trek through the mines.
Gandalf realizes immediately that this opponent is not to be trifled with. He sends the other members of the Fellowship forward and confronts the Balrog himself. This creature fights with a flaming whip and a sword, and manages to pull Gandalf into the abyss. Thus, he separates the Fellowship from their leader and significantly jeopardizes their mission. Gandalf fought the beast for a full 10 days until he finally defeated it.
