{{Character|image1=maskguild.png|caption1=A gondolier's mask.|location=[[Jericho Locks]]|allegiance=Independent|relationships=[[The Masters of the Bazaar]]<br>
{{Character|image1=maskguild.png|caption1=A guildmember's mask.|location=[[Jericho Locks]]|allegiance=Independent|relationships=[[The Masters of the Bazaar]]|notable_members=[[The Gonfaloniere]]<br>
[[Hell]]|notable_members=[[The Gonfaloniere]]<br>
The Doleful Poleman}}<blockquote>''"Jericho Locks is home to its Guild of Gondoliers: the canal-men and women who live and work the necessary but distasteful trade routes between the two great cities of the west."''</blockquote>
The Doleful Poleman}}<blockquote>''"Jericho Locks is home to its Guild of Gondoliers: the canal-men and women who live and work the necessary but distasteful trade routes between the two great cities of the west."''<ref name=":5">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
<blockquote>''"The canals are full of barges, black-painted and sombre. Some are adorned with silver bells, others heavy with crates, bottles and stacks of padded envelopes. Each barge is staffed by two gondoliers: one to row, the other to play a reedy viol."<ref name=":5" />''</blockquote>The Guild of Gondoliers is a trade guild based in [[Jericho Locks]]. Its members travel along the rivers of the [[The Hinterlands|Hinterlands]] between [[Hell]] and [[London]], facilitating trade<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}}</ref> and carrying passengers between the two cities.<ref name=":0">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Conversation_with_the_Wandering_Gondolier|A Conversation with the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}}</ref>__forcetoc__
<blockquote>''"The canals are full of barges, black-painted and sombre. Some are adorned with silver bells, others heavy with crates, bottles and stacks of padded envelopes. Each barge is staffed by two gondoliers: one to row, the other to play a reedy viol."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
The '''Guild of Gondoliers''' is a trade guild based in [[Jericho Locks]].__forcetoc__
== Row, Row, Row Your Boat...==
== Row, Row, Row Your Boat...==
<blockquote>''“Barges steered by black-liveried oarsmen pass by slowly. Somewhere, a distant viol plays, before being lost upstream.”''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Enter_Jericho_Locks|Enter Jericho Locks|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>The Gondoliers give a rather somber first impression. They are clad in black,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Enter_Jericho_Locks|Enter Jericho Locks|Fallen London|}} ''"Barges steered by black-liveried oarsmen pass by [...]"''</ref> and their boats and oars are painted the same color.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}} ''"The canals are full of barges, black-painted [...]"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_a_barge_to_the_lower_rivers|Take a barge to the lower rivers|Fallen London|}} ''"A captain of the Guild [...] escorts you to her barge – it, like all the rest, is painted black, as if in permanent mourning. [...] she sets her black oar into the ruddy water and you set off."''</ref> Boat captains wear silver half-masks,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_a_barge_to_the_lower_rivers|Take a barge to the lower rivers|Fallen London|}} ''"A captain of the Guild smiles from under her silver half-mask."''</ref> and senior members of the Guild wear black and silver full masks, at least when performing official duties.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Betray_the_Wandering_Gondolier|Betray the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"The most senior Guild members convene [...] Behind their masks of silver and jet, the guild members’ expressions are concealed [...]"''</ref> Each barge is staffed by two gondoliers, an oarsman and a viol player,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}} ''"Each barge is staffed by two gondoliers: one to row, the other to play a reedy viol."''</ref> regardless of whether they are carrying cargo or passengers.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}} ''"Some are adorned with silver bells, others heavy with crates, bottles and stacks of padded envelopes."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_a_barge_to_the_lower_rivers|Take a barge to the lower rivers|Fallen London|}} ''"''
<blockquote>''"Barges steered by black-liveried oarsmen pass by slowly. Somewhere, a distant viol plays, before being lost upstream."''<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Enter_Jericho_Locks|Enter Jericho Locks|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
The Guild is permitted to take paying passengers on tours of the canals [...]"''<nowiki/>''</ref>
[[File:Rowboat hinterlands.png|alt=A person rowing a boat.|thumb|[[Jericho Locks]]]]
The Guild of Gondoliers' members travel the rivers of the [[The Hinterlands|Hinterlands]] between [[Hell]] and [[London]],<ref name = "jericho storylet">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks_(Storylet)|Jericho Locks (Storylet)|Fallen London|}} ''"Jericho Locks: [...] where the bargemen cool their heels between voyages, where certain trade between London and Hell flows."''</ref> facilitating trade and transporting passengers.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}} ''"Jericho Locks [...] its Guild of Gondoliers: the canal-men and women who live and work the [...] trade routes between the two great cities of the west."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_a_barge_to_the_lower_rivers|Take a barge to the lower rivers|Fallen London|}} ''"The Guild is permitted to take [...] passengers on tours of the canals [...]"''</ref> They are stationed in the canal hub of [[Jericho Locks]].<ref name = "jericho storylet"/> The Gondoliers have a somber aesthetic: black uniforms<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Enter_Jericho_Locks|Enter Jericho Locks|Fallen London|}} ''"Barges steered by black-liveried oarsmen pass by [...]"''</ref> with boats and oars painted the same color.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}} ''"The canals are full of barges, black-painted [...]"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_a_barge_to_the_lower_rivers|Take a barge to the lower rivers|Fallen London|}} ''"A captain of the Guild [...] she sets her black oar into the [...] water and you set off."''</ref> Captains of the Guild wear silver half-masks,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Take_a_barge_to_the_lower_rivers|Take a barge to the lower rivers|Fallen London|}} ''"A captain of the Guild smiles from under her silver half-mask."''</ref> and other senior members of the Guild wear black and silver full masks when on duty.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Betray_the_Wandering_Gondolier|Betray the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"The most senior Guild members convene [...] Behind their masks of silver and jet, the guild members’ expressions are concealed [...]"''</ref> Each of the Guild's barges is staffed by two gondoliers, one an rower, the other a viol player.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Jericho_Locks:_The_Lockside|Jericho Locks: The Lockside|Fallen London|}} ''"Each barge is staffed by two gondoliers: one to row, the other to play a [...] viol."''</ref>
[[File:Maskamber.png|alt=A golden mask.|thumb|The [[The Gonfaloniere|Gonfaloniere]]'s mask.]]
The Guild is a highly structured organization. At the bottom are water carriers who perform menial tasks like wayfinding.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Betray_the_Wandering_Gondolier|Betray the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] demoted to waterboy, to run the canals route-finding [...]"''</ref> Next are pole-arms, explorers, and scouts. At the top are masters, captains, and the [[The Gonfaloniere|Gonfaloniere]] himself.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Watch_a_parade|Watch a parade|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] order of rank within the Guild. Waterboys and girls [...] pole-arms, explorers and scouts [...] masters, captains and the Gonfaloniere [...]"''</ref> The '''Doleful Poleman''' is a captain and the second-in-command who handles affairs in his superior's absence,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Join_the_Wandering_Gondolier|Join the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Doleful Poleman, second in rank to the Gonfalionere himself. [...] The Captain scowls."''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Doleful_Poleman|The Doleful Poleman|Fallen London|}} ''"The wellbeing of the gondoliers rests on his [...] shoulders while the Gonfaloniere is away."''</ref> and the Guild's governing body is called the '''Court of Penances'''.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Court of Penances (the [...] governing body of the Guild) [...]"''</ref> Not all of the Gondoliers are human: some are [[devils]], such as the '''Saturnine Gondolier''' who is apparently "on loan."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_him_about_himself|Ask him about himself|Fallen London|}} ''"Why is a devil working for the Guild? [...] "Might be that a person's on loan. Might [...] has his own reasons for being here. Might [...] doesn't like too many personal questions."''</ref>
The Guild is a highly structured organization. At the bottom of the pyramid are waterboys and watergirls (we may hypothesize a gender-neutral title as well), new initiates who perform menial tasks like wayfinding.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Betray_the_Wandering_Gondolier|Betray the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"The Wandering Gondolier is demoted to waterboy, to run the canals route-finding for the Guild."''</ref> Above them are pole-arms, explorers, and scouts, who take on more specialized roles. At the top of the hierarchy are masters, captains, the [[The Gonfaloniere|Gonfaloniere]] himself, and his second-in-command, '''the Doleful Poleman''',<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Watch_a_parade|Watch a parade|Fallen London|}} ''"Barges go by in order of rank within the Guild. Waterboys and girls at the back, pole-arms, explorers and scouts in the vanguard, masters, captains and the Gonfaloniere – in his golden mask – in the centre."''</ref> who handles the Gonfaloniere's affairs in his absence.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Doleful_Poleman|The Doleful Poleman|Fallen London|}} ''"The wellbeing of the gondoliers rests on his broad shoulders while the Gonfaloniere is away."''</ref> The Guild's governing body, responsible for meting out punishments to members who break the rules, is called the '''Court of Penances'''.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Court of Penances (the [...] governing body of the Guild) [...]"''</ref>
The Guild oversees the Hinterlands' waterways, demanding tolls and firing upon those who refuse.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_London_(from_Jericho_Locks)|Return to London (from Jericho Locks)|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] waterfalls, patrolled by [...] Guildmembers. You bypass their tolls [...] They open fire in response."''</ref> They also defend their territory from enemy factions and monsters of the canals.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_London_(from_Jericho_Locks)|Return to London (from Jericho Locks)|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] a tense stand-off between gondoliers, two sects of devils and an ancient, [...] thing rising from the [...] canal water."''</ref> They do not often explore the waterways, however, outside of expanding their trade interests.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_about_the_palace|Ask about the palace|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Guild doesn't want me to. [...] If it doesn't support trade, they're not interested in exploring further."''</ref> Gondoliers congregate at meeting places like the [[The Fiddler's Scarlet|Fiddler's Scarlet]], an inn which they run to house their own.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Leave_the_barge_(The_Fiddler%27s_Scarlet)|Leave the barge (The Fiddler's Scarlet)|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Fiddler's Scarlet – a [...] inn run for and by the Guild of Gondoliers."''</ref> They also have secret dealings with certain factions,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Give_him_a_report_on_the_cedar_grove|Give him a report on the cedar grove|Fallen London|}} ''"They must be careful. We must be careful. London doesn't know everything that happens here."''</ref> such as the renegade [[devils]] of the [[The Cedar-Woods|Cedar-Woods]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Leave_the_barge_(The_Cedar-Woods)|Leave the barge (The Cedar-Woods)|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] devils guard the woods [...] An accord with the Guild lets them make use of the river that runs through the grove, in exchange for [...] intelligence. [...] the bargewoman confers with senior members of the devils [...] [...] the [...] junior devils [...] grow bold and blaspheme against Hell."''</ref>
In addition to trade, the Guild carries the responsibility of monitoring the Hinterlands' waterways, demanding tolls and firing upon those who refuse to pay.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_London_(from_Jericho_Locks)|Return to London (from Jericho Locks)|Fallen London|}} ''"The thunder of waters to the south: a knot of waterfalls, patrolled by grizzled Guildmembers. You bypass their tolls from your engine, having no need of the waterways. They open fire in response."''</ref> They also have to defend their territory from trespassing devils and fearsome monsters of the canals.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_London_(from_Jericho_Locks)|Return to London (from Jericho Locks)|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the train is caught in a tense stand-off between gondoliers, two sects of devils and an ancient, hairy thing rising from the dark canal water. The stand-off is truncated when the hairy thing begins to eat the smaller sect of devils. [...]"''</ref> The Gondoliers do not, however, tend to explore the canals outside of trade interests.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_about_the_palace|Ask about the palace|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Guild doesn't want me to. [...] If it doesn't support trade, they're not interested in exploring further."''</ref> In order to secure passage through the [[The Cedar-Woods|Cedarwoods]], the Gondoliers are known to associate with certain factions of [[devils]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Leave_the_barge_(The_Cedar-Woods)|Leave the barge (The Cedar-Woods)|Fallen London|}} ''"These devils guard the woods here. The forests have existed long before London, and provide cover from watchful eyes. An accord with the Guild lets them make use of the river that runs through the grove, in exchange for certain intelligence."''</ref>
==Origins==
<blockquote>''"A Neapolitan scholar details the exodus in the wake of political upheaval. A time of promises hastily made, of opportunity opening in deep below...."''<ref name = "library">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>
When not on the waters, Gondoliers often congregate at meeting places like the [[The Fiddler's Scarlet|Fiddler's Scarlet]], an inn which they run to house their own.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Leave_the_barge_(The_Fiddler%27s_Scarlet)|Leave the barge (The Fiddler's Scarlet)|Fallen London|}} ''"This is the Fiddler's Scarlet – a raucous inn run for and by the Guild of Gondoliers."''</ref> Not all of the Gondoliers are human; some are devils, like '''the Saturnine Gondolier,''' who is apparently "on loan."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_him_about_himself|Ask him about himself|Fallen London|}} ''"Might be that a person's on loan. Might be that a person has his own reasons for being here. Might be a person doesn't like too many personal questions."''</ref>
==Origins==
<blockquote>''"A rose-hued text details the fierce competition with the bargemen contracted by Hell from the docks; the mysteries of their disappearance, its totality..."''<ref name = "library"/></blockquote>
<blockquote>''“A Neapolitan scholar details the exodus in the wake of political upheaval. A time of promises hastily made, of opportunity opening in deep below....”''<ref name=":6">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}</ref></blockquote>After the [[The Fall of London|Fall of London]], the first people to row the Hinterlands' rivers were Neapolitan workers, who came to the Neath in the wake of an unspecified political upheaval.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"[...] migrations of peoples in the mid 19th century is, [...] the 'Translation of London'. [...] the 'Neapolitan Exodus.'"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A Neapolitan scholar details the exodus in the wake of political upheaval. [...] opportunity opening in deep below...."''</ref> It may have been these workers who built the [[Cumaean Canal]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A mauve volume narrates the progress of the modern Guild from its origins as workers in the Cumaean north and westward [...]"''</ref> By maintaining these early trade routes, they established themselves as a power in their own right. In response, [[Mr Fires]] created the highly structured Guild of Gondoliers, with the [[The Gonfaloniere|Gonfaloniere]] at its head.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_about_the_Guild_of_Gondoliers|Ask about the Guild of Gondoliers|Fallen London|}}</ref> The first Gonfaloniere spent more time exploring the rivers than leading, which led to a period of instability in the early days of the Guild.<ref name=":1">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A pale tome in deep midnight explores the early Gonfaloniere whose wanderings much extended the network around Jericho, but whose absences and misguided leadership encouraged challenges to their position with zealous frequency."''</ref>
[[File:Cumaeancanal port.png|alt=A canal lit by sunlight.|thumb|[[The Cumaean Canal]]]]
The founders of the Guild were workers from [[Naples]] who migrated to the [[Neath]] in the wake of the [[Fall of London]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] migrations of peoples in the mid 19th century is, [...] the 'Translation of London'. [...] the 'Neapolitan Exodus.'"''</ref><ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"A Neapolitan scholar details the exodus in the wake of political upheaval. [...] opportunity opening in deep below...."''</ref> These workers may have also worked on the [[Cumaean Canal]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the progress of the modern Guild from its origins as workers in the Cumaean north and westward [...]"''</ref> In its early days, [[Hell]] assisted the gondoliers in navigating the Hinterlands' rivers,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the efficacy of Hell's assistance to the Guildsmen as they set up to service the [...] trade route between Hell and its newest neighbour."''</ref> and the two factions forged many contracts.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"A volume [...] details the contracts forged between Hell and the Guild [...]"''</ref> At some point, the Guild faced competition from dockworkers contracted by Hell, but the latter group disappeared under mysterious circumstances.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the [...] competition with the bargemen contracted by Hell from the docks; the mysteries of their disappearance, its totality..."''</ref>
The Guild has a good rapport with Hell; the devils assisted the gondoliers in navigating the Hinterlands' rivers in the Guild's earliest days,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A pale leather tome narrates the efficacy of Hell's assistance to the Guildsmen as they set up to service the old trade route between Hell and its newest neighbour."''</ref> and the two parties have forged many a contract.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A volume on infernal embassies details the contracts forged between Hell and the Guild, the documents taken over, the securities required..."''</ref> At some point, the Guild faced competition from dockworkers contracted by Hell, but these unfortunate souls disappeared under mysterious circumstances.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A rose-hued text details the fierce competition with the bargemen contracted by Hell from the docks; the mysteries of their disappearance, its totality..."''</ref>
The members of the Guild believe their organization dates back to before the [[First City]], its members then consisting of [[devils]] and "other things."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Support_the_motion_of_the_Wandering_Gondolier_regarding_a_route_to_Moulin|Support the motion of the Wandering Gondolier regarding a route to Moulin|Fallen London|}} ''"The Wandering Gondolier's information comes out in the form of ditties and rhymes, [...] Failed gondola expeditions [...] before the First City. [...] the Guild of Gondoliers cannot [...] predate the First City. [...] The Wandering Gondolier shakes his head [...] "The Gondoliers were here before the city was, [...] the guild was mostly devils [...] And other things, they say.""''</ref> It is said this ancient Guild forged a treaty with the [[Neath]]'s powers, leaving behind a monument in a language called the '''Tongue of Ash'''.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Persuade_the_Hell-Scarred_Gondolier/Tables|Persuade the Hell-Scarred Gondolier/Tables|Fallen London|}} ''"The Hell-Scarred Gondolier [...] where the treaty was made between the ancient Guild and the powers of the Neath. [...] a monument, [...] inscribed in the Tongue of Ash, [...] words are never used [...] except in eulogy.""''</ref>
==Culture==
==Culture==
<blockquote>''“The traditions of the Gondoliers are legion: feastdays of the old world syncretise with the new. Once adopted, a tradition is held in the highest reverence. By such codes, the Gondoliers are willingly and eternally bound.”<ref name=":6" />''</blockquote>The members of the Guild of Gondoliers believe that their organization dates back to the days of the [[First City]], when its membership supposedly consisted of devils and "other things."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Support_the_motion_of_the_Wandering_Gondolier_regarding_a_route_to_Moulin|Support the motion of the Wandering Gondolier regarding a route to Moulin|Fallen London|}} ''"The Wandering Gondolier's information comes out in the form of ditties and rhymes, [...] Failed gondola expeditions [...] before the First City. [...] the Guild of Gondoliers cannot [...] predate the First City. [...] The Wandering Gondolier shakes his head [...] "The Gondoliers were here before the city was, [...] the guild was mostly devils [...] And other things, they say.""''</ref> It is said that the ancient Guild formed a treaty between the Neath's powers, leaving behind a monument in an ancient language called the Tongue of Ash.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Persuade_the_Hell-Scarred_Gondolier/Tables|Persuade the Hell-Scarred Gondolier/Tables|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] where the treaty was made between the ancient Guild and the powers of the Neath. [...] a monument, [...] inscribed in the Tongue of Ash, [...] words are never used [...] except in eulogy.""''</ref>
<blockquote>''"The traditions of the Gondoliers are legion: feastdays of the old world syncretise with the new. Once adopted, a tradition is held in the highest reverence. By such codes, the Gondoliers are willingly and eternally bound."''<ref name = "library"/></blockquote>
The Guild is highly traditionalist,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"The traditions of the Gondoliers are legion: [...] Once adopted, a tradition is held in the highest reverence."''</ref><ref name=":0" /> hierarchical,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"A [...] tome on the duties of the Gondoliers reaffirms [...] importance of [...] captain, the [...] tragedies that arise when the hierarchy goes ignored."''</ref> and generally conservative in its outlook.<ref name=":3">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Provide_news_from_London|Provide news from London|Fallen London|}} ''"The bargemen work [...] months away from the Fifth City. Many never go back, [...] Much of their information is out of date [...] disappointed to learn the outcome of the most recent election, repulsed by the latest fashionable trends, [...] pleased to learn [...] Mr Fires' efforts against the unions."''
<blockquote>''"A green tome slick with amber reveals a tradition of leaving coins in the river for the Swan Bride, in the hopes of paying a debt. The debt goes unsaid, the Swan Bride entirely unaware of the custom. "Given no one will sell a thing to me, I think the execution leaves a little to be desired," she says wearily."''<ref name = "library"/></blockquote>
</ref> Since members may be away from London for months at a time or even for the remainder of their lives, they are rarely up to date on recent events;<ref name=":3" /> conversely, there is a heavy focus on the Guild's history, which they stage parades to celebrate.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Watch_a_parade|Watch a parade|Fallen London|}} ''"Barge poles hold up doleful banners depicting saints of Hell, former regiments of London's armies, and prestigious confraternities within the Guild."''</ref> The Guild forbids any music on its territory except the viol,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_him_about_the_prohibition_on_music|Ask him about the prohibition on music|Fallen London|}}</ref> declares that anyone who charters a gondola has the right to ask for any gondolier they wish,<ref name=":0" /> and mandates that no one interact with the mysterious [[Swan Bride]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Our_Lady_of_the_Canals|Our Lady of the Canals|Fallen London|}}</ref> Weddings are taken especially seriously;<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"Their jokes are crude on all subjects but marriage. It is the holiest state and cannot be broken. Once bound, a gondolier will not be unbound."''</ref> a member of the Guild may only marry another member,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"Only a gondolier is fit for another gondolier."''</ref> whether [[Devils|devil]]<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A series of infernal letters between gossips commenting on the love affair between a gondolier and a devil. The ceremony was conventional, the reception significantly less so."''</ref> or human. Some choose to symbolically marry the waters instead, but most choose not to marry at all.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"Marriages are rare in the Guild; a privilege reserved for a few. Some marry the waters in ceremonies of a highly symbolic nature, but in this case there was a groom."''</ref> These very waters have a special place in the Guild's culture.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A silver-tongued devil donates a text on the significance of water to the Guild: mother and bride and mistress of ceremonies all."''</ref>
[[File:Swanbride.png|alt=A woman with pale green skin and a golden swan mask.|thumb|[[The Swan Bride]]]]
The Guild has many rules and traditions its members would never dare violate.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"The traditions of the Gondoliers are legion: [...] Once adopted, a tradition is held in the highest reverence."''</ref> Examples include a ban on any music in [[Jericho Locks|Jericho]] except the viol,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_him_about_the_prohibition_on_music|Ask him about the prohibition on music|Fallen London|}} ''"Why are viols the only permitted instrument in Jericho? [...] an old superstition. [...] blow a trumpet in Jericho, the walls will come tumbling down." [...] No music, except the viol. [...]"''</ref> a rule that anyone who charters a gondola can choose their gondolier,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/A_Conversation_with_the_Wandering_Gondolier|A Conversation with the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"The Guild [...] have a tradition. Anyone who charters a barge can choose their gondolier [...]"''</ref> and a ban on conferring with the [[Swan Bride]].<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"A woman [...] wears a mask depicting a golden swan, [...] The Gonfaloniere [...] forbids contact with her; [...] barred from the Arborist's Hands [...] no bargeman will carry her."''</ref> Not all of the Guild's traditions arose organically; the [[Masters of the Bazaar]] rely on the Guild for trade, so they manipulated its previously unaffiliated workers by setting up hierarchies and rules to ensure their compliance.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_about_the_Guild_of_Gondoliers|Ask about the Guild of Gondoliers|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] not always been a Guild here. Just boatmen [...] Kept things flowing, trade [...] they started to get uppity. [...] the Masters give 'em something to aspire to: traditions, honours, ranks. A boss. Gives 'em meaning. [...] keeps 'em quiet.""''</ref> In fact, several of these rules were justified using fabricated tomes.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''""A golden prayerbook [...] a careful forgery: designed for the Guild to shore up their traditions [...]"''</ref>
[[File:Musculargondolier.png|alt=A muscular woman with an up-do.|thumb|The Thoroughly Experienced Gondolier, a former Guild member.]]
The Guild's members are typically conservative in their outlook,<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Provide_news_from_London|Provide news from London|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] disappointed to learn the outcome of the most recent election, repulsed by the latest fashionable trends, [...] pleased to learn [...] Mr Fires' efforts against the unions."''</ref> and strongly believe in hierarchies.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"A [...] tome on the duties of the Gondoliers reaffirms [...] importance of [...] captain, the [...] tragedies that arise when the hierarchy goes ignored."''</ref> Since they are often away from [[London]] for months if not the rest of their lives, their news may be outdated.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Provide_news_from_London|Provide news from London|Fallen London|}} ''"The bargemen work [...] months away from the Fifth City. Many never go back, [...] Much of their information is out of date [...]"''</ref> Conversely, they focus heavily on the Guild itself and its history, staging parades to celebrate it.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Watch_a_parade|Watch a parade|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the Guild of Gondoliers stages processions [...] to honour [...] great gondoliers. [...] banners depicting saints of Hell, former regiments of London's armies, [...] prestigious confraternities within the Guild. Barges go by in order of rank within the Guild. [...]"''</ref> The Guild views the [[Great Hellbound Railway]] with distrust, as it poses a threat to their business.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assist_an_out-of-work_Gondolier|Assist an out-of-work Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"Demand for the Guild of Gondoliers has suffered now that the GHR [...] at Jericho Locks."''</ref> Members are known to call its locomotives "the devil's own chariots,"<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Join_the_Wandering_Gondolier|Join the Wandering Gondolier|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] The Captain scowls. [...] outsiders," [...] who come here on trains! The devil's own chariots.""''</ref> and some even attempt to sabotage the railway.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_London_(from_Jericho_Locks)|Return to London (from Jericho Locks)|Fallen London|}} ''"One of the gondoliers [...] engaged in [...] industrial sabotage. [...] You haul him from the engine [...]"''</ref> The Gondoliers also view [[The Unterzee|zailors]] as rivals, despite their frequent interactions.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"Research the dialects of zailors [...] Despite their rivalry, they traffic with Jericho often."''</ref>
Not all of the Guild's traditions arose organically. The [[Masters of the Bazaar]] rely on the Guild for trade in the Hinterlands,<ref name=":4">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Ask_about_the_Guild_of_Gondoliers|Ask about the Guild of Gondoliers|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] not always been a Guild here. Just boatmen [...] Kept things flowing, trade [...] they started to get uppity. [...] the Masters give 'em something to aspire to: traditions, honours, ranks. A boss. Gives 'em meaning. [...] keeps 'em quiet."''</ref> so they manipulated its previously unaffiliated workers by establishing the Guild's hierarchy and rules, ensuring their compliance.<ref name=":4" /> Many of these rules are given justification based on fabricated tomes.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}}''"A golden prayerbook transpires to be a careful forgery: designed for the Guild to shore up their traditions of dubious veracity. As an insight, it is invaluable."''</ref>
Weddings and marriage are treated especially seriously among the Guild.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] jokes are crude on all [...] but marriage. [...] the holiest state [...] cannot be broken. [...] a gondolier will not be unbound."''</ref> A member of the Guild may typically only marry another member.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"Only a gondolier is fit for another gondolier."''</ref> Many choose not to marry at all, but some may symbolically marry the water itself.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"Marriages are rare in the Guild; [...] Some marry the waters in ceremonies of [...] symbolic nature, [...]"''</ref> In fact, water has a very special place in the Guild's culture, described as the "mother and bride and mistress of ceremonies all."<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"[...] the significance of water to the Guild: mother and bride and mistress of ceremonies all."''</ref>
The Guild views the coming of the [[Great Hellbound Railway]] with distrust,<ref name=":2" /> as it poses a threat to their business.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Assist_an_out-of-work_Gondolier|Assist an out-of-work Gondolier|Fallen London|}}</ref> Members have been known to call its locomotives "the devil's own chariots,"<ref name=":2">{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Engage_in_a_public_debate|Engage in a public debate|Fallen London|}}</ref> and some even attempt to sabotage the railway.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/Return_to_London_(from_Jericho_Locks)|Return to London (from Jericho Locks)|Fallen London|}} ''"A minor bit of sabotage east of Jericho. One of the gondoliers in disguise, engaged in a bit of light industrial sabotage. You haul him from the engine [...]"''</ref> The Gondoliers also view zailors as rivals, though the two groups interact and trade often.<ref>{{Citation|https://fallenlondon.wiki/wiki/The_Poisoner%27s_Library|The Poisoner's Library|Fallen London|}} ''"''
Research the dialects of zailors [...] Despite their rivalry, they traffic with Jericho often."''<nowiki/>''</ref>
==References==
==References==
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[[Category:Factions]]
[[Category:Formatted]]
[[Category:Cited]]
[[Category:The Hinterlands]]
Revision as of 15:23, 2 April 2023
"Are you quite sure you want to know this?"
Beyond this point lie major spoilers for Fallen London, Sunless Sea, Sunless Skies, or Mask of the Rose. This may include endgame or major Fate-locked spoilers. Proceed at your own risk.
You can find out more about our spoiler policy here.
"Jericho Locks is home to its Guild of Gondoliers: the canal-men and women who live and work the necessary but distasteful trade routes between the two great cities of the west."
"The canals are full of barges, black-painted and sombre. Some are adorned with silver bells, others heavy with crates, bottles and stacks of padded envelopes. Each barge is staffed by two gondoliers: one to row, the other to play a reedy viol."[1]
The Guild of Gondoliers is a trade guild based in Jericho Locks.
The Guild of Gondoliers' members travel the rivers of the Hinterlands between Hell and London,[3] facilitating trade and transporting passengers.[4][5] They are stationed in the canal hub of Jericho Locks.[3] The Gondoliers have a somber aesthetic: black uniforms[6] with boats and oars painted the same color.[7][8] Captains of the Guild wear silver half-masks,[9] and other senior members of the Guild wear black and silver full masks when on duty.[10] Each of the Guild's barges is staffed by two gondoliers, one an rower, the other a viol player.[11]
The Guild is a highly structured organization. At the bottom are water carriers who perform menial tasks like wayfinding.[12] Next are pole-arms, explorers, and scouts. At the top are masters, captains, and the Gonfaloniere himself.[13] The Doleful Poleman is a captain and the second-in-command who handles affairs in his superior's absence,[14][15] and the Guild's governing body is called the Court of Penances.[16] Not all of the Gondoliers are human: some are devils, such as the Saturnine Gondolier who is apparently "on loan."[17]
The Guild oversees the Hinterlands' waterways, demanding tolls and firing upon those who refuse.[18] They also defend their territory from enemy factions and monsters of the canals.[19] They do not often explore the waterways, however, outside of expanding their trade interests.[20] Gondoliers congregate at meeting places like the Fiddler's Scarlet, an inn which they run to house their own.[21] They also have secret dealings with certain factions,[22] such as the renegade devils of the Cedar-Woods.[23]
Origins
"A Neapolitan scholar details the exodus in the wake of political upheaval. A time of promises hastily made, of opportunity opening in deep below...."[24]
"A rose-hued text details the fierce competition with the bargemen contracted by Hell from the docks; the mysteries of their disappearance, its totality..."[24]
The founders of the Guild were workers from Naples who migrated to the Neath in the wake of the Fall of London.[25][26] These workers may have also worked on the Cumaean Canal.[27] In its early days, Hell assisted the gondoliers in navigating the Hinterlands' rivers,[28] and the two factions forged many contracts.[29] At some point, the Guild faced competition from dockworkers contracted by Hell, but the latter group disappeared under mysterious circumstances.[30]
The members of the Guild believe their organization dates back to before the First City, its members then consisting of devils and "other things."[31] It is said this ancient Guild forged a treaty with the Neath's powers, leaving behind a monument in a language called the Tongue of Ash.[32]
Culture
"The traditions of the Gondoliers are legion: feastdays of the old world syncretise with the new. Once adopted, a tradition is held in the highest reverence. By such codes, the Gondoliers are willingly and eternally bound."[24]
"A green tome slick with amber reveals a tradition of leaving coins in the river for the Swan Bride, in the hopes of paying a debt. The debt goes unsaid, the Swan Bride entirely unaware of the custom. "Given no one will sell a thing to me, I think the execution leaves a little to be desired," she says wearily."[24]
The Guild has many rules and traditions its members would never dare violate.[33] Examples include a ban on any music in Jericho except the viol,[34] a rule that anyone who charters a gondola can choose their gondolier,[35] and a ban on conferring with the Swan Bride.[36] Not all of the Guild's traditions arose organically; the Masters of the Bazaar rely on the Guild for trade, so they manipulated its previously unaffiliated workers by setting up hierarchies and rules to ensure their compliance.[37] In fact, several of these rules were justified using fabricated tomes.[38]
The Thoroughly Experienced Gondolier, a former Guild member.
The Guild's members are typically conservative in their outlook,[39] and strongly believe in hierarchies.[40] Since they are often away from London for months if not the rest of their lives, their news may be outdated.[41] Conversely, they focus heavily on the Guild itself and its history, staging parades to celebrate it.[42] The Guild views the Great Hellbound Railway with distrust, as it poses a threat to their business.[43] Members are known to call its locomotives "the devil's own chariots,"[44] and some even attempt to sabotage the railway.[45] The Gondoliers also view zailors as rivals, despite their frequent interactions.[46]
Weddings and marriage are treated especially seriously among the Guild.[47] A member of the Guild may typically only marry another member.[48] Many choose not to marry at all, but some may symbolically marry the water itself.[49] In fact, water has a very special place in the Guild's culture, described as the "mother and bride and mistress of ceremonies all."[50]
↑Jericho Locks: The Lockside, Fallen London"Jericho Locks [...] its Guild of Gondoliers: the canal-men and women who live and work the [...] trade routes between the two great cities of the west."
↑Watch a parade, Fallen London"[...] order of rank within the Guild. Waterboys and girls [...] pole-arms, explorers and scouts [...] masters, captains and the Gonfaloniere [...]"
↑Ask him about himself, Fallen London"Why is a devil working for the Guild? [...] "Might be that a person's on loan. Might [...] has his own reasons for being here. Might [...] doesn't like too many personal questions."
↑Ask about the palace, Fallen London"[...] the Guild doesn't want me to. [...] If it doesn't support trade, they're not interested in exploring further."
↑Leave the barge (The Cedar-Woods), Fallen London"[...] devils guard the woods [...] An accord with the Guild lets them make use of the river that runs through the grove, in exchange for [...] intelligence. [...] the bargewoman confers with senior members of the devils [...] [...] the [...] junior devils [...] grow bold and blaspheme against Hell."
↑The Poisoner's Library, Fallen London"[...] migrations of peoples in the mid 19th century is, [...] the 'Translation of London'. [...] the 'Neapolitan Exodus.'"
↑The Poisoner's Library, Fallen London"A Neapolitan scholar details the exodus in the wake of political upheaval. [...] opportunity opening in deep below...."
↑The Poisoner's Library, Fallen London"[...] the efficacy of Hell's assistance to the Guildsmen as they set up to service the [...] trade route between Hell and its newest neighbour."
↑The Poisoner's Library, Fallen London"[...] the [...] competition with the bargemen contracted by Hell from the docks; the mysteries of their disappearance, its totality..."
↑Support the motion of the Wandering Gondolier regarding a route to Moulin, Fallen London"The Wandering Gondolier's information comes out in the form of ditties and rhymes, [...] Failed gondola expeditions [...] before the First City. [...] the Guild of Gondoliers cannot [...] predate the First City. [...] The Wandering Gondolier shakes his head [...] "The Gondoliers were here before the city was, [...] the guild was mostly devils [...] And other things, they say.""
↑Persuade the Hell-Scarred Gondolier/Tables, Fallen London"The Hell-Scarred Gondolier [...] where the treaty was made between the ancient Guild and the powers of the Neath. [...] a monument, [...] inscribed in the Tongue of Ash, [...] words are never used [...] except in eulogy.""
↑Ask him about the prohibition on music, Fallen London"Why are viols the only permitted instrument in Jericho? [...] an old superstition. [...] blow a trumpet in Jericho, the walls will come tumbling down." [...] No music, except the viol. [...]"
↑The Poisoner's Library, Fallen London"A woman [...] wears a mask depicting a golden swan, [...] The Gonfaloniere [...] forbids contact with her; [...] barred from the Arborist's Hands [...] no bargeman will carry her."
↑Ask about the Guild of Gondoliers, Fallen London"[...] not always been a Guild here. Just boatmen [...] Kept things flowing, trade [...] they started to get uppity. [...] the Masters give 'em something to aspire to: traditions, honours, ranks. A boss. Gives 'em meaning. [...] keeps 'em quiet.""
↑Provide news from London, Fallen London"[...] disappointed to learn the outcome of the most recent election, repulsed by the latest fashionable trends, [...] pleased to learn [...] Mr Fires' efforts against the unions."
↑The Poisoner's Library, Fallen London"A [...] tome on the duties of the Gondoliers reaffirms [...] importance of [...] captain, the [...] tragedies that arise when the hierarchy goes ignored."
↑Provide news from London, Fallen London"The bargemen work [...] months away from the Fifth City. Many never go back, [...] Much of their information is out of date [...]"
↑Watch a parade, Fallen London"[...] the Guild of Gondoliers stages processions [...] to honour [...] great gondoliers. [...] banners depicting saints of Hell, former regiments of London's armies, [...] prestigious confraternities within the Guild. Barges go by in order of rank within the Guild. [...]"
↑The Poisoner's Library, Fallen London"[...] jokes are crude on all [...] but marriage. [...] the holiest state [...] cannot be broken. [...] a gondolier will not be unbound."
