Kaled Zem
This is where Dispater first emerged which suggests that deep under the mountains is/was an ancient connection to the depths of the underworld. That connection would have relied on the Astral and could be a good source of more essence
First Age
0-100 The reign of the Elves is confined to Vikriain and the Silven Lands. The Dwarven Lands comprise a series of mountain ranges which bordered the Elven realms; these mountains run southwards from Fangor Rodrus to Findor and encompass Kaled Zem, Balem and Hama’Las.
500 Lastar and The rise of Dispater. Lastar is born to a Half-elf woman (Sylvan) and a man called Eorand. The Dwarves of Kaled Zem unearth a great evil power - Dispater. The Devil unites the races of evil that inhabit the Forgotten Lands, east of the Dwarven mountains.
525 The Rise of Orcus; The Elven Gems and Bavarik. A new evil, a Demon named Orcus, rises from the Abyss and attacks the Dwarves from the North East, flattening the mountain range between Fangor Rodrus and Kaled Zem. Elves enter the battle under Lastar’s command and use their magical gems against Orcus’ army. The gems belong to the following Elves: Gelmir of the Silven Lands, Aerandir of Numenorea, Nenya of the Old Forest and Elwe of Lorial. Bavarik of Arogan is born in Gos.
535 The Rise of Demogorgan. Not yet at full strength, this young Demon visits the Prime Material Plane for the first time. Unwisely, Demogorgan stretches his forces attacking the Elves to the South of Kaled Zem, Orcus to the south east of Fangor Rodrus and the Dwarves east of Balem Lakes.
557 Minas Maedus and Minas Emras complete. The House of Rodrus is built and ruled by Maedus. The House of Zem comes to power at Minas Emras.
557 The Elemental Rings. The Rings of Power and the Elven Gems are united by Dwarven craftsmen. Lastar gives each Ring elemental powers. Hamar (living in Minas Aarda) receives the Ring of Earth. Zem (living in Minas Emras) receives the Ring of Air. Ishtur (living in Minas Morgul) receives the Ring of Fire. Dor (living in Minas Tiris) receives the Ring of Water.
557-560 Men and Dwarves build Sutur. Orodruin’s kindred move to the west of Kaled Zem. Whilst this depletes the force holding Minas Maedus, Lastar promises them help if they build a large tower and keep to protect Kaled Zem.