<blockquote>''"This was once part of London, but it was badly damaged in the Fall. The brick buildings toppled, the wooden buildings burned. Hillchanger Tower lost its crenellations."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
<blockquote>''"This was once part of London, but it was badly damaged in the Fall. The brick buildings toppled, the wooden buildings burned. Hillchanger Tower lost its crenellations."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
'''Ealing Gardens''' is the first station of the [[Great Hellbound Railway]].__forcetoc__
'''Ealing Gardens''' is a community just outside London, which serves as the first station of the [[Great Hellbound Railway]].__forcetoc__
== London's Edge ==
== The Outskirts of London ==
<blockquote>''"Not everyone who lives here is a Rubbery Man or a market gardener. Other people – the very poor, the very eccentric, and the very unpopular – have found homes here as well."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
<blockquote>''"Not everyone who lives here is a Rubbery Man or a market gardener. Other people – the very poor, the very eccentric, and the very unpopular – have found homes here as well."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
[[File:Mushroom2.webp|alt=A red mushroom with a brown stem.|thumb|100px|A Peppercap.]]
[[File:Mushroom2.webp|alt=A red mushroom with a brown stem.|thumb|100px|A Peppercap.]]
Ealing Gardens was once part of [[London]] on the [[Surface]]. However, its buildings were damaged and the wooden ones burned during the [[Fall of London]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}} ''"This was once part of London, [...] it was badly damaged in the Fall. The brick buildings toppled, the wooden buildings burned."''</ref> Despite this rough start, Ealing eventually developed into a fledgling community.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Not everyone who lives here is a Rubbery Man or [...] market gardener. Other people [...] have found homes here as well."''</ref> Some buildings were reconstructed, and new ones were built entirely, with architecture following a Rubbery theming.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}} ''"The architecture is a Rubbery parody of London: old ruins propped up [...] new buildings built in [...] imitation of known styles."''</ref> Other buildings were demolished and converted into mushroom farms that provide food for London's populace.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"The blocks that could not be salvaged [...] have been laid with topsoil for mushroom-growing. [...] has to supply all the plates of London."''</ref>
Once part of [[London]] on the [[The Surface|Surface]], Ealing Gardens suffered disastrous damage in the Fall as it landed some distance from the rest of the city.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}} ''"This was once part of London, [...] it was badly damaged in the Fall. The brick buildings toppled, the wooden buildings burned."''</ref> It eventually redeveloped into a fledgling community;<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Not everyone who lives here is a Rubbery Man or [...] market gardener. Other people [...] have found homes here as well."''</ref> some buildings were reconstructed, and some replaced with architecture in a [[Rubbery Men|Rubbery]] style.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}} ''"The architecture is a Rubbery parody of London: old ruins propped up [...] new buildings built in [...] imitation of known styles."''</ref> Other ruins were demolished and converted into mushroom farms that now provide food for London's populace.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"The blocks that could not be salvaged [...] have been laid with topsoil for mushroom-growing. [...] has to supply all the plates of London."''</ref>
Ealing's population primarily consists of [[Rubbery Men]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Not everyone who lives here is a Rubbery Man [...]"''</ref> outsiders and severely impoverished from [[London]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Other people – the very poor, the [...] eccentric, and the [...] unpopular – have found homes here [...]"''</ref> [[Urchins]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"An Urchin flies over the rooftops [...]"''</ref> and fungal gardeners.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Not everyone who lives here is a [...] market gardener [...]"''</ref> After the [[Great Hellbound Railway]] arrived, it brought new visitors along with it,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Now that the railway has arrived, it will be rejuvenated."''</ref> such as [[Bohemians]],<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A Bohemian painter struggles up the side of Aescwine Hill, [...]"''</ref> paleontologists,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A group of Palaeontologists stand consulting a map."''</ref> enforcers from the Ministry of Upper River Developement,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A servant of the Ministry of Upper River Development is nailing wood over the door of an abandoned house."''</ref> and even [[Monster-Hunters]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A cluster of women with harpoons pass you in the street."''</ref> Retirees from the [[The Tracklayer's Union|Tracklayer's Union]] also took up residence in Ealing,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Engage_in_Unobserved_Charity|Engage in Unobserved Charity|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] wounded ex-Tracklayers who live around here, no longer able to [...] work."''</ref> some along with their families, though they often face poverty.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Fill_a_stomach|Fill a stomach|Fallen London|}} ''"You smuggle your donation to [...] Union workers – some of them living with their families, and with not really enough to go round."''</ref> Sadly, despite Ealing's thriving Rubbery community, they still face discrimination from the town's other residents.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Rubbery_Observances|Rubbery Observances|Fallen London|}} ''"Saving Flute Street, nowhere in London [is] [...] a home for Rubbery Men. Even here, they are subject to stares and unflattering comment. But they are more numerous in these parts than elsewhere. The Tentacled Entrepreneur built his first factory [...] down that block."''</ref>
== A Rubbery Community ==
''"Even here, they are subject to stares and unflattering comment. But they are more numerous in these parts than elsewhere."<ref name=":0">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Rubbery_Observances|Rubbery Observances|Fallen London|}} ''"Saving Flute Street, nowhere in London [is] [...] a home for Rubbery Men. Even here, they are subject to stares and unflattering comment. But they are more numerous in these parts than elsewhere. The Tentacled Entrepreneur built his first factory [...] down that block."''</ref>''
==Commercial Development==
''"People around here often mention Helicon House, a gathering place of Rubberies and Bohemians..."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Track_rumours_you%27ve_been_hearing|Track rumours you've been hearing|Fallen London|}}</ref>
<blockquote>''"The lack of ordinary shops does not mean a lack of trade entirely. There are still people who will sell clothes or food out here; there are still a few sources of Prisoner's Honey, for those who have reached the Upper River and cannot live without."''<ref name = "commercial explore">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Explore_the_commercial_opportunities|Explore the commercial opportunities|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
[[Rubbery Men]] make up a large portion of Ealing's population, and the arrival of commercial development in the area has created business and cultural hubs for the tentacled folk. Sadly, even here, they face discrimination from the town's human residents.<ref name=":0" />
The [[Tentacled Entrepreneur]] recently moved most of his business operations to Ealing;<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Tentacled Entrepreneur brought most his operations here, where the factories could expand and the workers live [...]"''</ref> his factories are staffed with Rubbery Men,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"The factory floor requires the Rubbery men to sit closer together than seems comfortable."''</ref> with the only humans present employed as security guards.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the security is provided by humans."''</ref> Strict hygiene is enforced,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"Before they sit [...] each Rubbery washes its tentacles at a basin [...] A Rubbery janitor passes [...] washing a floor that is already spotless."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur_as_an_invited_guest|Visit the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur as an invited guest|Fallen London|}} ''"He emphasises hygiene. [...] The Rubbery men follow a protocol of washing when they begin and end [...] no amber deposits allowed on the factory floor [...]"''</ref> and the Rubbery Men work on an assembly line<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"They are engaged in [...] assembly work, each adding several parts to a mechanism before passing it on to the next."''</ref> to manufacture various useful goods.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur_as_an_invited_guest|Visit the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur as an invited guest|Fallen London|}}</ref> While the Entrepreneur may be lauded for providing his fellow Rubberies with safe employment, the products that come from these factories are not his primary source of income.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_as_the_guest_of_your_Rubbery_Bellringer|Visit Helicon House as the guest of your Rubbery Bellringer|Fallen London|}} ''"No, no, the Entrepreneur is not busy with his factories. The money comes from amber. The factories are... [...] The factories are a bell without a clapper."''</ref>
Since Ealing exists outside the immediate range of the [[Echo Bazaar]], commerce was initially minimal. The area's few peddlers sold food, clothes, and [[Prisoner's Honey]].<ref name = "commercial explore"/> After the [[Great Hellbound Railway]] arrived, commercial development increased, for better or for worse.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Commission_the_building_of_a_commercial_district|Commission the building of a commercial district|Fallen London|}}</ref> Some visitors at Ealing took advantage of the open space and established circuses away from the radius of [[Mrs Plenty's Carnival]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Incident_of_the_Honey-Mazed_Bear|The Incident of the Honey-Mazed Bear|Fallen London|}} ''"Ealing Gardens offers parkland [...] far from Mrs Plenty's jealous gaze. [...] someone has the [...] idea to [...] mount a carnival of their own."''</ref> [[Mr Hearts]] licensed a butcher's shop in Ealing,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Licensed_by_Mr_Hearts|Licensed by Mr Hearts|Fallen London|}}</ref> though the butcher himself isn't a huge fan of hurting animals.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_the_skull_off_a_Somnolent_Hyaena|Take the skull off a Somnolent Hyaena|Fallen London|}} ''""I like animals," [...] "But you can't make a living on butchering fungus.""''</ref>
Though it is also a relatively new establishment, '''[[Helicon House]]''' has already become an important one to the Rubbery population.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_with_the_Dean_of_Xenotheology|Visit Helicon House with the Dean of Xenotheology|Fallen London|}} ''"Several of the Rubbery people are gathered around a sculpture displayed at the centre of the room. "We shouldn't approach without permission," [...] "Their current posture is one associated with... sacred receptiveness. [...] This is a time of extraordinary change for them. A few years ago, Rubbery culture had nothing like this—""''</ref> Within its walls, they are free to engage with and express their artistry and culture.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_as_the_guest_of_your_Rubbery_Bellringer|Visit Helicon House as the guest of your Rubbery Bellringer|Fallen London|}} ''"Helicon is a bohemian salon, except that at least half of those present – both artists and hangers-on – are Rubbery."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_as_the_guest_of_your_Rubbery_Bellringer|Visit Helicon House as the guest of your Rubbery Bellringer|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] look around! Admire the artworks!"''</ref> Helicon's very existence is kept secret to most humans, even within the counterculture of London,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Catch_up_on_Bohemian_gossip|Catch up on Bohemian gossip|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] that puts her ahead of all those people who are so outside the mode that they don't even know it exists."''</ref> and any human visitors are vetted thoroughly by its doorman before they may enter.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Helicon_House_(Storylet)|Helicon House (Storylet)|Fallen London|}}</ref>
[[File:Tentacledentrepreneur.png|alt=A neatly-dressed Rubbery Men wearing a top hat.|thumb|[[The Tentacled Entrepreneur]]]]
Recently, the [[Tentacled Entrepreneur]] moved his factories and workers to Ealing Gardens.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Tour_the_Neighbourhood|Tour the Neighbourhood|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Tentacled Entrepreneur brought most his operations here, where the factories could expand and the workers live [...]"''</ref> These factories are staffed with Rubbery Men<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"The factory floor requires the Rubbery men to sit closer together than seems comfortable."''</ref> along with human security guards.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the security is provided by humans."''</ref> Strict hygiene is enforced,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"Before they sit [...] each Rubbery washes its tentacles at a basin [...] A Rubbery janitor passes [...] washing a floor that is already spotless."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur_as_an_invited_guest|Visit the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur as an invited guest|Fallen London|}} ''"He emphasises hygiene. [...] The Rubbery men follow a protocol of washing when they begin and end [...] no amber deposits allowed on the factory floor [...]"''</ref> and the Rubbery Men work as an assembly line<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Sneak_into_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur|Sneak into the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur|Fallen London|}} ''"They are engaged in [...] assembly work, each adding several parts to a mechanism before passing it on to the next."''</ref> to create various products.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_the_Factories_of_the_Tentacled_Entrepreneur_as_an_invited_guest|Visit the Factories of the Tentacled Entrepreneur as an invited guest|Fallen London|}}</ref> Apparently, the factories are actually a smokescreen for the Entrepreneur's real source of income, which seems to involve amber in some way.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_as_the_guest_of_your_Rubbery_Bellringer|Visit Helicon House as the guest of your Rubbery Bellringer|Fallen London|}} ''"No, no, the Entrepreneur is not busy with his factories. The money comes from amber. The factories are... [...] The factories are a bell without a clapper."''</ref>
During her tenure as [[Lord Mayor of London]], [[Virginia]] opened a spa in [[Ladybones Road]] for the betterment of London's [[souls]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_about_Virginia%27s_plans_for_London|Ask about Virginia's plans for London|Fallen London|}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Accompany_Virginia_for_a_treatment|Accompany Virginia for a treatment|Fallen London|}}</ref> Unfortunately, results were middling and the spa was considered a failure. Thus, with the help of the GHR, Virginia opened another spa in Ealing, far away from any oversight.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Spa_Services|Spa Services|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] as Mayor, Virginia took over a [...] townhouse on Ladybones Road and converted it into a spa. [...] the results were not wholly satisfactory. [...] with your assistance, she has built a branch of that spa here in Ealing Gardens, where she can offer advanced treatments without the supervision of any Ministry."''</ref> However, the treatments of this new spa are still questionably effective.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Attend_for_a_treatment|Attend for a treatment|Fallen London|}}</ref>
==Human Development==
<blockquote>''"The lack of ordinary shops does not mean a lack of trade entirely. There are still people who will sell clothes or food out here; there are still a few sources of Prisoner's Honey, for those who have reached the Upper River and cannot live without."''<ref name = "commercial explore">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Explore_the_commercial_opportunities|Explore the commercial opportunities|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
== Key Locations ==
Ealing's citizenry is an eccentric mix of Rubbery Men<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Not everyone who lives here is a Rubbery Man [...]"''</ref>, [[London|London's]] poor and outcast,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Other people – the very poor, the [...] eccentric, and the [...] unpopular – have found homes here [...]"''</ref> and fungus farmers.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Not everyone who lives here is a [...] market gardener [...]"''</ref> When the [[Great Hellbound Railway]] arrived, it brought new visitors and residents of various stripes:<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Acquaint_yourself_with_its_present_condition|Acquaint yourself with its present condition|Fallen London|}} ''"Now that the railway has arrived, it will be rejuvenated."''</ref> [[Tracklayer's Union]] retirees<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Engage_in_Unobserved_Charity|Engage in Unobserved Charity|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] wounded ex-Tracklayers who live around here, no longer able to [...] work."''</ref> and their families,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Fill_a_stomach|Fill a stomach|Fallen London|}} ''"You smuggle your donation to [...] Union workers – some of them living with their families, and with not really enough to go round."''</ref> bohemians seeking inspiration,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A Bohemian painter struggles up the side of Aescwine Hill, [...]"''</ref> enterprising paleontologists,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A group of Palaeontologists stand consulting a map."''</ref> even [[Monster-Hunters]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A cluster of women with harpoons pass you in the street."''</ref> It also brought the Ministry of Upper River Development, which now oversees the growing community.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Airs_of_Ealing_Gardens|Airs of Ealing Gardens|Fallen London|}} ''"A servant of the Ministry of Upper River Development is nailing wood over the door of an abandoned house."''</ref>
<blockquote>''"It's the Hillchanger Tower. The one that appears on Aescwine Hill and then travels other places. I've thought for some time that represented another power."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Build_the_station_at_Moulin|Build the station at Moulin|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
<blockquote>''"People around here often mention Helicon House, a gathering place of Rubberies and Bohemians. All you need now is the address."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Track_rumours_you%27ve_been_hearing|Track rumours you've been hearing|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
Since Ealing exists outside the immediate range of the [[Echo Bazaar]], commercial activity in the area was initially minimal. The area's few peddlers sold food, clothes, and [[Prisoner's Honey]].<ref name="commercial explore" /> After the Railway arrived, commercial development increased, for better or for worse;<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Commission_the_building_of_a_commercial_district|Commission the building of a commercial district|Fallen London|}}</ref> [[Mr Hearts]] has licensed a butcher's shop in Ealing,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Licensed_by_Mr_Hearts|Licensed by Mr Hearts|Fallen London|}}</ref> though the butcher himself is not fond of his job,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_the_skull_off_a_Somnolent_Hyaena|Take the skull off a Somnolent Hyaena|Fallen London|}} ''""I like animals," [...] "But you can't make a living on butchering fungus.""''</ref> and some have taken advantage of the open space to establish circuses without competition from [[Mrs Plenty's Carnival]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Incident_of_the_Honey-Mazed_Bear|The Incident of the Honey-Mazed Bear|Fallen London|}} ''"Ealing Gardens offers parkland [...] far from Mrs Plenty's jealous gaze. [...] someone has the [...] idea to [...] mount a carnival of their own."''</ref>
[[File:Tentacledentrepreneur.png|alt=A neatly-dressed Rubbery Men wearing a top hat.|thumb|[[The Tentacled Entrepreneur]]]]
A key landmark in Ealing is '''Aescwine Hill''', a summit near the outskirts of Ealing.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Constellations|Constellations|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] it's easier to make out the silhouettes on the horizon: the outline of Aescwine Hill [...]"''</ref> The hill is a popular lookout for [[Bohemians]], especially those of the Nocturnal school, who use it as a lookout point to paint the surrounding landscape.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Upper_River_Artistry|Upper River Artistry|Fallen London|}} ''"The more Nocturnalist Bohemians have taken a liking to Ealing Gardens. [...] some simply paint landscapes of the vista from Aescwine Hill.</ref> However, this can be dangerous, as the hill is infested with cat-sized scorpions.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Offer_your_defensive_escort|Offer your defensive escort|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] a little trouble, [...] a troupe of [...] scorpions the size of house-cats [...] Your party does not get even halfway up the hill before you are swarmed by [...] scorpions?"''</ref> Aescwine Hill is also one of the resting points of [[Hillchanger Tower]], which travels across the [[Hinterlands]]<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Build_the_station_at_Moulin|Build the station at Moulin|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Hillchanger Tower. The one that appears on Aescwine Hill and then travels other places," [...] It has taken up a place in Moulin now [...]"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Promise_to_retrieve_the_Honey-Mazed_Bear_again|Promise to retrieve the Honey-Mazed Bear again|Fallen London|}} ''"They wanted to put the stash in 'illchanger Tower, [...] see 'em climb up one morning and find the 'ole lot gone off to Burrow-Infra-Mump [...]"''</ref> but returns to Aescwine every midnight.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Time_the_appearances_of_Hillchanger_Tower|Time the appearances of Hillchanger Tower|Fallen London|}} ''"Whenever and wherever it goes, it is always back by midnight."''</ref>
During her tenure as [[Lord Mayor of London]], [[Virginia]] opened a spa in [[Ladybones Road]] for the betterment of London's [[souls]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_about_Virginia%27s_plans_for_London|Ask about Virginia's plans for London|Fallen London|}}</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Accompany_Virginia_for_a_treatment|Accompany Virginia for a treatment|Fallen London|}}</ref> Unfortunately, results were middling, and the spa was considered a failure. With the help of the GHR, Virginia has opened another location in Ealing, far away from any oversight,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Spa_Services|Spa Services|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] as Mayor, Virginia took over a [...] townhouse on Ladybones Road and converted it into a spa. [...] the results were not wholly satisfactory. [...] with your assistance, she has built a branch of that spa here in Ealing Gardens, where she can offer advanced treatments without the supervision of any Ministry."''</ref> but her selection of treatments remains questionably effective.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Attend_for_a_treatment|Attend for a treatment|Fallen London|}}</ref>
A key institution in Ealing is [[Helicon House]], a center for Rubbery arts and expression.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_as_the_guest_of_your_Rubbery_Bellringer|Visit Helicon House as the guest of your Rubbery Bellringer|Fallen London|}} ''"Helicon is a bohemian salon, except that at least half of those present – both artists and hangers-on – are Rubbery."''</ref> It's considered a secret even among [[Bohemians]];<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Catch_up_on_Bohemian_gossip|Catch up on Bohemian gossip|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] that puts her ahead of all those people who are so outside the mode that they don't even know it exists."''</ref> furthermore, human visitors are vetted thoroughly by Helicon's doorman.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Helicon_House_(Storylet)|Helicon House (Storylet)|Fallen London|}}</ref> Within Helicon, Rubbery Men are free to engage with and express their artistry and culture, which continue to develop and flourish within Helicon's walls.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_as_the_guest_of_your_Rubbery_Bellringer|Visit Helicon House as the guest of your Rubbery Bellringer|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] look around! Admire the artworks!"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Visit_Helicon_House_with_the_Dean_of_Xenotheology|Visit Helicon House with the Dean of Xenotheology|Fallen London|}} ''"Several of the Rubbery people are gathered around a sculpture displayed at the centre of the room. "We shouldn't approach without permission," [...] "Their current posture is one associated with... sacred receptiveness. [...] This is a time of extraordinary change for them. A few years ago, Rubbery culture had nothing like this—""''</ref>
== Aescwine Hill ==
<blockquote>''"It's the Hillchanger Tower. The one that appears on Aescwine Hill and then travels other places. I've thought for some time that represented another power."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Build_the_station_at_Moulin|Build the station at Moulin|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>[[File:Roof upsidedown edited.png|alt=A stalagmite.|thumb|[[Hillchanger Tower]]]]
'''Aescwine Hill''' is a summit near the outskirts of Ealing.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Constellations|Constellations|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] it's easier to make out the silhouettes on the horizon: the outline of Aescwine Hill [...]"''</ref> The view from the hill is a favorite subject of local landscape painters,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Upper_River_Artistry|Upper River Artistry|Fallen London|}} ''"The more Nocturnalist Bohemians have taken a liking to Ealing Gardens. [...] some simply paint landscapes of the vista from Aescwine Hill.</ref> even though it is infested with enormous scorpions.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Offer_your_defensive_escort|Offer your defensive escort|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] a little trouble, [...] a troupe of [...] scorpions the size of house-cats [...] Your party does not get even halfway up the hill before you are swarmed by [...] scorpions?"''</ref> It is one of the resting points of [[Hillchanger Tower]], which travels across the [[Hinterlands]]<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Build_the_station_at_Moulin|Build the station at Moulin|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Hillchanger Tower. The one that appears on Aescwine Hill and then travels other places," [...] It has taken up a place in Moulin now [...]"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Promise_to_retrieve_the_Honey-Mazed_Bear_again|Promise to retrieve the Honey-Mazed Bear again|Fallen London|}} ''"They wanted to put the stash in 'illchanger Tower, [...] see 'em climb up one morning and find the 'ole lot gone off to Burrow-Infra-Mump [...]"''</ref> but returns to Aescwine every midnight.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Time_the_appearances_of_Hillchanger_Tower|Time the appearances of Hillchanger Tower|Fallen London|}} ''"Whenever and wherever it goes, it is always back by midnight."''</ref>
== References ==
== References ==
Revision as of 02:19, 10 August 2022
"This was once part of London, but it was badly damaged in the Fall. The brick buildings toppled, the wooden buildings burned. Hillchanger Tower lost its crenellations."[2]
Ealing Gardens is a community just outside London, which serves as the first station of the Great Hellbound Railway.
"Not everyone who lives here is a Rubbery Man or a market gardener. Other people – the very poor, the very eccentric, and the very unpopular – have found homes here as well."[3]
A Peppercap.
Once part of London on the Surface, Ealing Gardens suffered disastrous damage in the Fall as it landed some distance from the rest of the city.[4] It eventually redeveloped into a fledgling community;[5] some buildings were reconstructed, and some replaced with architecture in a Rubbery style.[6] Other ruins were demolished and converted into mushroom farms that now provide food for London's populace.[7]
A Rubbery Community
"Even here, they are subject to stares and unflattering comment. But they are more numerous in these parts than elsewhere."[8]
"People around here often mention Helicon House, a gathering place of Rubberies and Bohemians..."[9]
Rubbery Men make up a large portion of Ealing's population, and the arrival of commercial development in the area has created business and cultural hubs for the tentacled folk. Sadly, even here, they face discrimination from the town's human residents.[8]
The Tentacled Entrepreneur recently moved most of his business operations to Ealing;[10] his factories are staffed with Rubbery Men,[11] with the only humans present employed as security guards.[12] Strict hygiene is enforced,[13][14] and the Rubbery Men work on an assembly line[15] to manufacture various useful goods.[16] While the Entrepreneur may be lauded for providing his fellow Rubberies with safe employment, the products that come from these factories are not his primary source of income.[17]
Though it is also a relatively new establishment, Helicon House has already become an important one to the Rubbery population.[18] Within its walls, they are free to engage with and express their artistry and culture.[19][20] Helicon's very existence is kept secret to most humans, even within the counterculture of London,[21] and any human visitors are vetted thoroughly by its doorman before they may enter.[22]
Human Development
"The lack of ordinary shops does not mean a lack of trade entirely. There are still people who will sell clothes or food out here; there are still a few sources of Prisoner's Honey, for those who have reached the Upper River and cannot live without."[23]
Ealing's citizenry is an eccentric mix of Rubbery Men[24], London's poor and outcast,[25] and fungus farmers.[26] When the Great Hellbound Railway arrived, it brought new visitors and residents of various stripes:[27]Tracklayer's Union retirees[28] and their families,[29] bohemians seeking inspiration,[30] enterprising paleontologists,[31] even Monster-Hunters.[32] It also brought the Ministry of Upper River Development, which now oversees the growing community.[33]
Since Ealing exists outside the immediate range of the Echo Bazaar, commercial activity in the area was initially minimal. The area's few peddlers sold food, clothes, and Prisoner's Honey.[23] After the Railway arrived, commercial development increased, for better or for worse;[34]Mr Hearts has licensed a butcher's shop in Ealing,[35] though the butcher himself is not fond of his job,[36] and some have taken advantage of the open space to establish circuses without competition from Mrs Plenty's Carnival.[37]
During her tenure as Lord Mayor of London, Virginia opened a spa in Ladybones Road for the betterment of London's souls.[38][39] Unfortunately, results were middling, and the spa was considered a failure. With the help of the GHR, Virginia has opened another location in Ealing, far away from any oversight,[40] but her selection of treatments remains questionably effective.[41]
Aescwine Hill
"It's the Hillchanger Tower. The one that appears on Aescwine Hill and then travels other places. I've thought for some time that represented another power."[42]
Aescwine Hill is a summit near the outskirts of Ealing.[43] The view from the hill is a favorite subject of local landscape painters,[44] even though it is infested with enormous scorpions.[45] It is one of the resting points of Hillchanger Tower, which travels across the Hinterlands[46][47] but returns to Aescwine every midnight.[48]
↑Tour the Neighbourhood, Fallen London"This was once part of London, [...] it was badly damaged in the Fall. The brick buildings toppled, the wooden buildings burned."
↑Tour the Neighbourhood, Fallen London"The architecture is a Rubbery parody of London: old ruins propped up [...] new buildings built in [...] imitation of known styles."
↑ 8.08.1Rubbery Observances, Fallen London"Saving Flute Street, nowhere in London [is] [...] a home for Rubbery Men. Even here, they are subject to stares and unflattering comment. But they are more numerous in these parts than elsewhere. The Tentacled Entrepreneur built his first factory [...] down that block."
↑Tour the Neighbourhood, Fallen London"[...] the Tentacled Entrepreneur brought most his operations here, where the factories could expand and the workers live [...]"
↑Visit Helicon House with the Dean of Xenotheology, Fallen London"Several of the Rubbery people are gathered around a sculpture displayed at the centre of the room. "We shouldn't approach without permission," [...] "Their current posture is one associated with... sacred receptiveness. [...] This is a time of extraordinary change for them. A few years ago, Rubbery culture had nothing like this—""
↑Fill a stomach, Fallen London"You smuggle your donation to [...] Union workers – some of them living with their families, and with not really enough to go round."
↑Spa Services, Fallen London"[...] as Mayor, Virginia took over a [...] townhouse on Ladybones Road and converted it into a spa. [...] the results were not wholly satisfactory. [...] with your assistance, she has built a branch of that spa here in Ealing Gardens, where she can offer advanced treatments without the supervision of any Ministry."
↑Constellations, Fallen London"[...] it's easier to make out the silhouettes on the horizon: the outline of Aescwine Hill [...]"
↑Upper River Artistry, Fallen London"The more Nocturnalist Bohemians have taken a liking to Ealing Gardens. [...] some simply paint landscapes of the vista from Aescwine Hill.
↑Offer your defensive escort, Fallen London"[...] a little trouble, [...] a troupe of [...] scorpions the size of house-cats [...] Your party does not get even halfway up the hill before you are swarmed by [...] scorpions?"
↑Build the station at Moulin, Fallen London"[...] the Hillchanger Tower. The one that appears on Aescwine Hill and then travels other places," [...] It has taken up a place in Moulin now [...]"
