Part 3/7:
The core of the analysis pivots on the question: What if the Balrog possessed the One Ring? Would this creature, steeped in darkness and power, become an unstoppable force under Sauron's command, or could it potentially wield that power against him?
Tokens’ works articulate that the Ring grants a portion of Sauron’s essence to its wielder, and the discussion suggests a complex predicament. Though the Balrog is inherently corrupt—being a Maia—its claim to the Ring’s power would complicate Sauron’s control. Given the right circumstances, the Balrog could possibly turn Sauron’s own power against him.