by Beniua Busuka



As most residents of Yliakum are aware, the first level of Yliakum - referred to as the Dome - contains several access points to the Stone Labyrinths beyond. These access points have been secured by, and are known as, the Bronze Doors. There are seven Bronze Doors areas at irregular intervals along the Dome’s walls, and each has its own designation to avoid confusion. Thus, the areas are given names based on animals in Yliakum. Starting at the one closest to Hydlaa, and travelling to the right when facing the doors, they are known as the Eagle, the Clacker, the Serpent, the Tloke, the Ulbernaut, the Rivnak and the Pterosaur. The author of this book herself is stationed at the Eagle Bronze Doors in an administrative capacity. There are slight differences between each set of Bronze Doors: some are situated on waterfalls and produce energy from them, others are situated on high windy slopes where windmills have been erected. In most cases, there is a link between the Bronze Doors and energy production, for economic reasons.

For the most part, the Bronze Doors stay partly open. After all, the Stone Labyrinths are rich in resources necessary for Yliakum’s economy; foodstuffs, animal products, ores and crystals chief among them. The doors are kept partly open to allow passage for workers and caravans to transport goods back to Yliakum. Unfortunately, with such an abundance of resources comes competition. Raiding parties and monsters from within the Labyrinths and possibly parts beyond will occasionally make their way to the Bronze Doors; in extreme cases, the Doors can be closed to bar entry, but the economy suffers from lack of resources if they are. Normally, any encounters are left to the squadrons, which I will now explain.

Each set of Bronze Doors is protected by both the Sunshine Squadron and the Shadow Squadron. The Sunshine Squadron is noted for its skills in frontal combat, both on land with swords and in the air with pterosaur riders, as well as healing and defensive magic. The Shadow Squadron relies more on offensive magic, ranged combat and guile. The relationship between the two Squadrons is a strange one: while both Squadrons use different skill sets, they still feel the need to compete for the attention of the government; specifically, whichever Vigesimi is in charge of that particular set of Bronze Doors. Part of this rivalry could be attributed to religion: members of the Sunshine Squadron tend to be followers of Talad, whereas the Shadow Squadron is for the most part dedicated to Laanx. In the interest of full disclosure, as an administrator the author works with both Squadrons but is officially working for the Sunshine Squadron and, indeed, is a worshipper of Talad. However, as this text is meant to be informative, objectivity is given the highest regard.

Bronze Doors operation is not entirely run by the Squadrons. Because most guards have to stay in close proximity to the Stone Labyrinths and will not stray far from their posts, oftentimes they will need assistance from adventurers and other kind souls. It is these adventurers who give the protectors of the Bronze Doors an increased peace of mind through their help in personal or professional matters, and consequently ensure more efficient operation. Chances are very good that if you’re an adventurer looking for some honest work, you will find no lack at your nearest Bronze Doors region. It is not recommended to face any monsters or raiders from the Stone Labyrinths - leave that to the experienced guards - but both the Sunshine and Shadow Squadrons are well-respected members of Yliakum society and have been known to repay help with support in societal advancement. Just keep in mind who you want to impress. Those who want to advance in Hydlaa society would want the support of the Eagle Bronze Doors, as opposed to the Tloke Bronze Doors, and so on. All Bronze Doors are important: respect their guardians because they keep Yliakum safe and prosperous.