n ancient times, the Mordain clan of dwarves operated a large and highly profitable mine in the foothills of the Stoneforge Mountains just northeast of Nevrast, to which they sold great quantities of ore and finished metal products despite the periodic attentions of marauding giant insects from the nearby Fireant Complex.

Eventually, the wealth of this dwarven clan attracted too much attention from the barbarous tribes of goblinoids that dwelt in the surrounding hills. Orcs, goblins, and hobgoblins all came together to drive the outnumbered dwarves from their home and seize the passages and tunnels for themselves. Of course, not being inclined toward hard work, the goblinoids quickly let the mines grow disused, abandoning a potentially rich source of future treasure.

Rumor has it that the spirits of the murdered dwarves did not go quietly to eternal rest, but instead haunt the passages that they once mined in life, protecting the depths against further goblinoid exploration. Sages warn that the transition into undeath may well have twisted the dwarven souls, so that now they hate not only the despoilers of their home but all the living.