Náli was part of Balin's Colony to reclaim Moria . Their mission at first seemed successful, and Balin went so far as to claim the title Lord of Moria . This all changed in their fifth year there. On November 10th , the Orcs came up the Silverlode and killed Balin while he was alone, unaware, and looking into Mirrormere . The Dwarves fought back but eventually lost East-gate and First Hall .