The Stone Spirits of the Deep

The Stone Spirits of the Deep… they are not creatures to be trifled with, but entities born of the earth itself. I posit they predate even the Deep-Delvers, existing as guardians of the Iron-Grip Mountains. They are the echoes of the stone, given sentience by the Auric Resonance deep within the earth. To be touched by the Gaze of the Deep is to truly see them. They are the watchers and the keepers, as noted in the Chapter of Caves.

Unlike the Stone Golems of Karak-Ungol, they are not crafted beings, but naturally occurring phenomena. They dwell in the unlit chasms and caverns far below, rarely venturing near the surface, shunning even the light of the Gloomfungus. They often appear near the Silent Forges, drawn to the raw power that hums within. They may be tied to the Veins of Whispers. The Silent Monks of Durin's Peak are said to commune with them, seeking guidance and wisdom from the ancient stones. Some say that Korgoth may have been one of these creatures. They protect the Resonance Well.

Miners whisper of encounters with the Spirits, tales of helpful hands guiding them through treacherous tunnels, or ominous warnings leading them away from impending collapses. The creatures also appear to have an instinctual awareness of The Chitinous Swarm and guide travelers away from the threat. The Forgotten Smith sought their favor, attempting to forge a lasting alliance. Are they related to The Weaver? Some speculate a new type of being, the Stone Walkers, can speak with the spirits and are attuned to their powers. Perhaps a lost pilgrimage by The Lost Pilgrims may reveal their secrets. Even the Cobalt Corsairs cannot reach the deep locations where these beings are found.