Illustrated World Of Mortal Engines
Author: Philip Reeve (Reeve) Jeremy Levett
Date: 2018-11-02 04:00:00+00:00
Keywords: Fantasy; Steampunk; Science Fiction; Fiction; Art; Dystopia; Young Adult
Description: MORTAL ENGINES launched Philip Reeve's brilliantly-imagined creation, the world of the Traction Era, where mobile cities fight for survival in a post-apocalyptic future. Now, in time for the film debut, the critically acclaimed MORTAL ENGINES quartet is brought to life in a comprehensive, full-colour illustrated guide to the world Philip Reeve has created across 15 years and 8 books.
Publisher: Scholastic

First published in 2018

by Scholastic Children’s Books

Euston House, 24 Eversholt Street, London, NW1 1DB, UK

Registered office: Westfield Road, Southam, Warwickshire, CV47 0RA

SCHOLASTIC and associated logos are trademarks and/or

registered trademarks of Scholastic Inc.

Text copyright © Philip Reeve and Jeremy Levett 2019

Illustrations copyright © Aedel Fakhrie, Ian McQue, Maxime PLASSE,

Rob Turpin, Philip Varbanov, David Wyatt and Amir Zand, 2019

(See page 188 for full illustration credits.)

The moral rights of Philip Reeve, Jeremy Levett, Aedel Fakhrie,

Ian McQue, Maxime PLASSE, Rob Turpin, Philip Varbanov,

David Wyatt and Amir Zand have been asserted.

ISBN 978 1407 18678 8

A CIP catalogue record for this book

is available from the British Library.

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part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system,

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Printed and bound in Germany

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This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, incidents

and dialogues are products of the author’s imagination or are used

fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual people, living or dead,

events or locales is entirely coincidental.

www.scholastic.co.uk

For Mum and Dad,
who never doubted
it would happen - JL

LONDON: THE FIRST

TRACTION CITY

London

Prey has become scarce in recent decades, and London, the first Traction City, is far

from the largest or fastest predator in the world. For ten years it has grumbled around

a forgotten corner of the globe, hiding from bigger, faster, hungrier cities… But now,

Lord Mayor Magnus Crome has steered it back into the Great Hunting Ground.

PRE-TRACTION LONDON, circa 475 te

5. WIND-TRAMS

The main form of transport for Londoners who couldn’t afford a post-chaise or sedan chair.

The main form of transport for Londoners who couldn’t afford a post-chaise or sedan chair.

Passengers wear an oyster shell on a string to show they’ve paid their fare.

Passengers wear an oyster shell on a string to show they’ve paid their fare.

2. NONESUCH HOUSE

Auric Godshawk’s grand mansion was burned down during the Skinners’ Riots, leaving an

abandoned, haunted shell standing in the Brick Marsh.

6. GODSHAWK’S HEAD

The only part of a statue built by the last Scriven ruler of London, Auric Godshawk. Nobody

The only part of a statue built by the last Scriven ruler of London, Auric Godshawk. Nobody

knows why he started with the head. Home to the Order of Engineers, who always considered

knows why he started with the head. Home to the Order of Engineers, who always considered

knows why he started with the head. Home to the Order of Engineers, who always considered

themselves the brains of the city.

themselves the brains of the city.

4. THE BARBICAN

The mobile fortress brought by the Scriven from the north, used as their headquarters. Later

The mobile fortress brought by the Scriven from the north, used as their headquarters. Later

incorporated into the command tier of the Traction City of London.

1. THE MOTT & HOOPLE

Possibly the oldest and certainly the least pleasant pub in London. An ideal place to go for a pint

of Brimstone Best, an antique pickled egg, or a punch up the hooter.

3. THE ORBITAL MOATWAY

The vast defences of Ancient London are impressive on a map but far too long to be effectively

manned. In times of war, London’s Trained Bands are mustered to aid the small permanent garri-

son, who are known as Garage Bands and operate from milecastles which still proudly bear their

Ancient names: Mimms, Cobbem, Welcome Break.

13

THE FIRST TRACTION CITY: LONDON, 486 TE

1. GUN BATTERIES

London’s main battery of Gilbert & Johnson rifled muzzle-loaders has been augmented by guns

London’s main battery of Gilbert & Johnson rifled muzzle-loaders has been augmented by guns

stripped from the Movement’s fleet.

3. ELEVATORS

Water-powered funiculars, to a design by Dr Avery Teal based on observations made in Mayda-

at-the-World’s-End. Water containment issues have been added to the Engineers’ snagging list.

4. WORKERS’ ACCOMMODATION

The Engineers have scientifically calculated the exact amount of space required for each person

in the new, rational London. These habitation units, easy to mass-produce with non-strategic

materials, are unpopular with Londoners, who call them “eggboxes for people”.

5. THE GREAT UNDER TIER (G.U.T)

Designed as a hangar for London’s landships, until planned upper-deck gardens are completed

the Gut also serves as a space for public functions, such as military reviews and masked balls.

6. ENGINE DISTRICT

The largest engines ever built, from a design by Auric Godshawk discovered underneath

pre-Traction London.

7. MONOS

Among the fastest vehicles available in the middle Traction Era, although highly fuel-inefficient

Among the fastest vehicles available in the middle Traction Era, although highly fuel-inefficient

and almost impossible to stop.

8. ARMOURED LANDSHIPS

Machines of the Movement were known for the eerie quietness and superb reliability of their

Machines of the Movement were known for the eerie quietness and superb reliability of their

Machines of the Movement were known for the eerie quietness and superb reliability of their

engines, some able to drive for entire days without breaking down.

2. COMMAND TIER

London’s observation and control deck, draughty but heavily fortified. Nikola Quercus, Land

London’s observation and control deck, draughty but heavily fortified. Nikola Quercus, Land

Admiral and Lord Mayor, takes the high ground wherever he goes.

Admiral and Lord Mayor, takes the high ground wherever he goes.

15

4. Air-harbour

The stevedores at the Port of London on Tier Five can turn around around even the largest

The stevedores at the Port of London on Tier Five can turn around around even the largest

sky-trains in a matter of hours. The Guilds and important individual Londoners maintain their

sky-trains in a matter of hours. The Guilds and important individual Londoners maintain their

own hangars and docking pans elsewhere in the city.

own hangars and docking pans elsewhere in the city.

5. The Guild of Historians

The Museum of London at the heart of Tier Two is one of the greatest ethnographical and

The Museum of London at the heart of Tier Two is one of the greatest ethnographical and

archaeological collections in the Great Hunting Ground. Open from 10:00 – 17:00 all year round

archaeological collections in the Great Hunting Ground. Open from 10:00 – 17:00 all year round

except Wednesdays and Quirkemas.

except Wednesdays and Quirkemas.

6. The Gut

London’s resource processing districts, where captured towns are stripped down and new

London’s resource processing districts, where captured towns are stripped down and new

inhabitants are given registration numbers and lectures about citizenship.

Modern London, 1007 TE

3. The Guildhall

Home to the offices of the greater and lesser Guilds of London, to their monthly council

meetings, and to a lovely collection of Tractionist art including some very fine Walmart

Stranges.

1. St Paul’s Cathedral

The Guild of Engineers is restoring this ancient Christian shrine, based – rumour has it – on

The Guild of Engineers is restoring this ancient Christian shrine, based – rumour has it – on

authentic plans of the original discovered by the explorer Thaddeus Valentine.

authentic plans of the original discovered by the explorer Thaddeus Valentine.

2. The Engineerium

The headquarters of the Guild of Engineers, built to a rational modern design. Its position on the

The headquarters of the Guild of Engineers, built to a rational modern design. Its position on the

Top Tier is indicative of the growing political power of the Engineers.

HISTORY OF THE

TRACTION ERA

The Traction Era Begins

“Many of us who live aboard Traction Cities like to believe that they have lasted for ‘A Thousand

“Many of us who live aboard Traction Cities like to believe that they have lasted for ‘A Thousand

“Many of us who live aboard Traction Cities like to believe that they have lasted for ‘A Thousand

“Many of us who live aboard Traction Cities like to believe that they have lasted for ‘A Thousand

“Many of us who live aboard Traction Cities like to believe that they have lasted for ‘A Thousand

Years’ – a belief which our rulers choose to encourage, since a thousand is such a nice, round

Years’ – a belief which our rulers choose to encourage, since a thousand is such a nice, round

Years’ – a belief which our rulers choose to encourage, since a thousand is such a nice, round

Years’ – a belief which our rulers choose to encourage, since a thousand is such a nice, round

Years’ – a belief which our rulers choose to encourage, since a thousand is such a nice, round

number and gives an air of such immense age and dignity to these clanking city-states of ours.

number and gives an air of such immense age and dignity to these clanking city-states of ours.

number and gives an air of such immense age and dignity to these clanking city-states of ours.

number and gives an air of such immense age and dignity to these clanking city-states of ours.

Similarly, the elders of the Anti-Traction League often boast of the ‘thousand years’ which

Similarly, the elders of the Anti-Traction League often boast of the ‘thousand years’ which

Similarly, the elders of the Anti-Traction League often boast of the ‘thousand years’ which

Similarly, the elders of the Anti-Traction League often boast of the ‘thousand years’ which

have passed since Lama Batmunkh first took arms against the forces of Municipal Darwinism.

have passed since Lama Batmunkh first took arms against the forces of Municipal Darwinism.

have passed since Lama Batmunkh first took arms against the forces of Municipal Darwinism.

have passed since Lama Batmunkh first took arms against the forces of Municipal Darwinism.

But history is seldom so neat, and the history of the Traction Era is no exception...”

But history is seldom so neat, and the history of the Traction Era is no exception...”

– Chudleigh Pomeroy, a London Historian, writing in 1000 TE.

– Chudleigh Pomeroy, a London Historian, writing in 1000 TE.

– Chudleigh Pomeroy, a London Historian, writing in 1000 TE.

The year 1 TE (Traction Era) is generally considered the date of the reinvention of the internal

The year 1 TE (Traction Era) is generally considered the date of the reinvention of the internal

combustion engine, and thus the use of Traction among the primitive nomadic tribes of that era.

combustion engine, and thus the use of Traction among the primitive nomadic tribes of that era.

No two historians agree on the precise date, and archaeological evidence is contradictory, but,

No two historians agree on the precise date, and archaeological evidence is contradictory, but,

for the sake of consistency, Tractionist historians and calendar printers have generally agreed to

for the sake of consistency, Tractionist historians and calendar printers have generally agreed to

count from the same day.

The centuries-old aftershocks of the Sixty Minute War had still not died away, and the climate

The centuries-old aftershocks of the Sixty Minute War had still not died away, and the climate

alternated unpredictably between brief ice-ages and warmer periods of violent storms. The

alternated unpredictably between brief ice-ages and warmer periods of violent storms. The

Earth itself seemed restless, shuddering with earthquakes and sprouting new volcanoes. Mass

migration became a way of life, and it was the itinerant nations of Europa (later called “The

Great Hunting Ground”) who first applied the half-understood traction technology of the

Ancients to their wagons and mobile homes. Many mechanized empires sprang up during this

First Traction Boom: the Scriven, the Arkhangelsk, the Movement, the Republique des Blindes,

the Traktionreichs, the Novaya-Khazak. Their wagon trains and motor-and-bailey castles

bore scant resemblance to the towering Traction Cities of later centuries, but quickly came to

dominate much of Europa, especially in the harsh north. In Asia, as a response to incursions by

nomad landships, various wall-building and defence collectives came about under leaders such

as Lama Batmunkh, the stirrings of what would eventually become the Anti-Traction League.

However, as the climate stabilized over the next four centuries, stationary living became a more

attractive option again. Many of the once-mobile nations settled back down, some more or less

where they started, and Europa experienced a resurgence of technophobia and distrust of the

18

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

nomad life, especially in backwaters like Mayda. While roving convoys of trade barges were a

common sight almost everywhere, large independent nomad empires were primarily confined to

common sight almost everywhere, large independent nomad empires were primarily confined to

common sight almost everywhere, large independent nomad empires were primarily confined to

common sight almost everywhere, large independent nomad empires were primarily confined to

northern Europa, with the temperate southern lands and the Zagwan-influenced north coast of

northern Europa, with the temperate southern lands and the Zagwan-influenced north coast of

the Middle Sea forming a demotorized zone.

All this changed when the Movement, a particularly technological and aggressive northern

empire, conquered London in 477 TE and began transforming it into the first truly modern

Traction City. The success of London, and the lesson of “bigger is better” it taught at the Battle

of Three Dry Ships, inspired a Second Traction Boom, in which the richer and more powerful

static city-states of Europa attempted to copy London: notable among them were Paris,

static city-states of Europa attempted to copy London: notable among them were Paris,

Murnau and the regrouped nomad tribe Arkangel. Traction Cities of those days were highly

Murnau and the regrouped nomad tribe Arkangel. Traction Cities of those days were highly

militarized machines, as much mobile castles as cities, and generally considered cannon their

militarized machines, as much mobile castles as cities, and generally considered cannon their

militarized machines, as much mobile castles as cities, and generally considered cannon their

first, last and only argument.

There then followed a long, chaotic period of hardship and protracted unpleasantness known as

There then followed a long, chaotic period of hardship and protracted unpleasantness known as

There then followed a long, chaotic period of hardship and protracted unpleasantness known as

There then followed a long, chaotic period of hardship and protracted unpleasantness known as

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

the Wheeled War, or Forty Years War, as mobile cities, nomad war-bands and static city-states

fought ceaselessly over borders. This ended only when, in the early sixth century TE, armies

fought ceaselessly over borders. This ended only when, in the early sixth century TE, armies

fought ceaselessly over borders. This ended only when, in the early sixth century TE, armies

fought ceaselessly over borders. This ended only when, in the early sixth century TE, armies

from the Zagwan Empire swept across the Mediterranean in an attempt to crush Tractionism

from the Zagwan Empire swept across the Mediterranean in an attempt to crush Tractionism

from the Zagwan Empire swept across the Mediterranean in an attempt to crush Tractionism

from the Zagwan Empire swept across the Mediterranean in an attempt to crush Tractionism

and techno-heresy for ever. Forced to cooperate against the greater Zagwan threat, Europa’s

and techno-heresy for ever. Forced to cooperate against the greater Zagwan threat, Europa’s

and techno-heresy for ever. Forced to cooperate against the greater Zagwan threat, Europa’s

and techno-heresy for ever. Forced to cooperate against the greater Zagwan threat, Europa’s

Tractionists were eventually victorious.

Tractionists were eventually victorious.

A Third Traction Boom spread the tenets of Tractionism across much of the world, from the

A Third Traction Boom spread the tenets of Tractionism across much of the world, from the

A Third Traction Boom spread the tenets of Tractionism across much of the world, from the

A Third Traction Boom spread the tenets of Tractionism across much of the world, from the

red deserts of Australia to the jungles of Nuevo Maya, the plains of North Africa and the high

red deserts of Australia to the jungles of Nuevo Maya, the plains of North Africa and the high

red deserts of Australia to the jungles of Nuevo Maya, the plains of North Africa and the high

red deserts of Australia to the jungles of Nuevo Maya, the plains of North Africa and the high

plateaus of Deccan. It was the dawn of a Golden Age of Traction.

plateaus of Deccan. It was the dawn of a Golden Age of Traction.

19

The Ancients

All that we know of the people who lived before the Sixty Minute War comes from the ruins and

All that we know of the people who lived before the Sixty Minute War comes from the ruins and

All that we know of the people who lived before the Sixty Minute War comes from the ruins and

rubbish tips of their world, and what survives in the few books, film sagas, and cave paintings

rubbish tips of their world, and what survives in the few books, film sagas, and cave paintings

preserved through the Black Centuries. From this, historians have pieced together a world

preserved through the Black Centuries. From this, historians have pieced together a world

inhabited by people we would recognize as human but whose ways of living are almost

inhabited by people we would recognize as human but whose ways of living are almost

unrecognizably strange. The cities they lived in were neither Traction Cities as they are

unrecognizably strange. The cities they lived in were neither Traction Cities as they are

understood now, nor fully static settlements, but a strange cross between the two in which parts

understood now, nor fully static settlements, but a strange cross between the two in which parts

understood now, nor fully static settlements, but a strange cross between the two in which parts

of their populations would in fact move around in mobile neighbourhoods which ran on metal

of their populations would in fact move around in mobile neighbourhoods which ran on metal

of their populations would in fact move around in mobile neighbourhoods which ran on metal

rails and groundcars like very small four-person cities. So advanced was the technology of

rails and groundcars like very small four-person cities. So advanced was the technology of

the Ancients that they built these hybrid settlements almost everywhere, from the bottom of

the Ancients that they built these hybrid settlements almost everywhere, from the bottom of

the oceans to high up in outer space; some records and tales have it that the Ancients actually

the oceans to high up in outer space; some records and tales have it that the Ancients actually

the oceans to high up in outer space; some records and tales have it that the Ancients actually

settled other worlds beyond this one, although surely if any had survived they would have

settled other worlds beyond this one, although surely if any had survived they would have

settled other worlds beyond this one, although surely if any had survived they would have

written home by now.

Their technology was unparalleled; ancient celluloid shows them using powerful energy

Their technology was unparalleled; ancient celluloid shows them using powerful energy

Their technology was unparalleled; ancient celluloid shows them using powerful energy

weapons, creating mechanical men, conjuring food from thin air, and even able to bring back the

weapons, creating mechanical men, conjuring food from thin air, and even able to bring back the

weapons, creating mechanical men, conjuring food from thin air, and even able to bring back the

dead. How much these images depict fact and how far they can be considered religious artwork

dead. How much these images depict fact and how far they can be considered religious artwork

dead. How much these images depict fact and how far they can be considered religious artwork

with ritual significance has been the source of fierce disputes among historians.

The period shortly before the Sixty Minute War is generally known as the “Screen Age”, owing to

the vast number of screen-bearing devices which have been dug up from Ancient sites. Very few

written records survive from this late period, leading some historians to suggest that the people

of the Screen Age, for all their power, had forgotten how to read or write. Another popular

theory holds that the Ancients somehow stored all their books, letters and other information

inside their machines, and that their knowledge was lost with them when their civilization fell.

20

Slow Bombs

Asteroids diverted by the Ancients on to Earth-impact trajectories during the Sixty Minute War,

Asteroids diverted by the Ancients on to Earth-impact trajectories during the Sixty Minute War,

these massive weapons began to arrive over the decades following the conflict, like latecomers to

a particularly rowdy party. They gouged great craters in the planet’s already battered crust, and

the ash and debris they threw up contributed to the long period of global cooling known as the

“Black Centuries”. Several Slow Bombs are said to have struck North America and one, perhaps

a near-miss, obliterated the Isthmus of Panama, creating the Crater Sea.

The Sixty Minute War

A brief but terrible conflict between several of the empires of the Ancient world, during which

A brief but terrible conflict between several of the empires of the Ancient world, during which

A brief but terrible conflict between several of the empires of the Ancient world, during which

A brief but terrible conflict between several of the empires of the Ancient world, during which

A brief but terrible conflict between several of the empires of the Ancient world, during which

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

civilization and human life itself were almost wiped from the Earth. The destruction was so total

that the generations growing up in the “Black Centuries” which followed were unable to accept

that the generations growing up in the “Black Centuries” which followed were unable to accept

that the generations growing up in the “Black Centuries” which followed were unable to accept

that the generations growing up in the “Black Centuries” which followed were unable to accept

that it had been caused by human actions, and referred to it only as “The Downsizing”, believing

that it had been caused by human actions, and referred to it only as “The Downsizing”, believing

that it had been caused by human actions, and referred to it only as “The Downsizing”, believing

that it had been caused by human actions, and referred to it only as “The Downsizing”, believing

that the gods had punished the Ancients for their arrogance and cleverness. The true nature

that the gods had punished the Ancients for their arrogance and cleverness. The true nature

of the catastrophe and the term “Sixty Minute War” were first suggested by the scholar and

of the catastrophe and the term “Sixty Minute War” were first suggested by the scholar and

Engineer Fever Crumb, writing in the 480s. So few documents survive from before the war

Engineer Fever Crumb, writing in the 480s. So few documents survive from before the war

that it is impossible to know exactly who the combatants were, although historians believe

that it is impossible to know exactly who the combatants were, although historians believe

that the American Empire, Greater China, and the so-called “Barefoot States” all played a part.

that the American Empire, Greater China, and the so-called “Barefoot States” all played a part.

All were annihilated by the war, along with many other relics of that age, such as the fearsome

All were annihilated by the war, along with many other relics of that age, such as the fearsome

dinosaurs and the mythical spiders which, according to legend, once spun a web large enough

dinosaurs and the mythical spiders which, according to legend, once spun a web large enough

to cover the entire world.

Blast-glass

In parts of the world lie great craters, and

In parts of the world lie great craters, and

within some of them the earth has been fused

within some of them the earth has been fused

into glass by the energy of the terrifying

into glass by the energy of the terrifying

weapons which the Ancients flung upon

weapons which the Ancients flung upon

each other during the Sixty Minute War.

each other during the Sixty Minute War.

Blast-Glass was highly valued and popular as

Blast-Glass was highly valued and popular as

jewellery during the Traction Era. Collecting

jewellery during the Traction Era. Collecting

it was said to be dangerous, as many Blast-

it was said to be dangerous, as many Blast-

Glass miners succumbed to a wasting

Glass miners succumbed to a wasting

disease called the glass-palsy. In olden times

disease called the glass-palsy. In olden times

it was said that even the wearing of Blast-

it was said that even the wearing of Blast-

Glass jewellery could bring on sickness,

Glass jewellery could bring on sickness,

leading to legends that certain particularly

leading to legends that certain particularly

large and elaborate pieces carried a curse.

large and elaborate pieces carried a curse.

22

Archaeology and History

Long before the dawn of Traction, many of the ruined cities of the Ancients were home to clans

of scavengers who made their living by digging up the debris of the old world and sifting though

it for useful or attractive bits of Old-Tech. As they became more prosperous, the most successful

of these diggers began to call themselves “archaeologists”, which sounded better than “scavenger”

or “salvageman”. The term remained in use throughout the Traction Era, but the distinction

between scavengers and archaeologists was always a vague one: scruffy Out-Country oiks

between scavengers and archaeologists was always a vague one: scruffy Out-Country oiks

between scavengers and archaeologists was always a vague one: scruffy Out-Country oiks

who make a living pulling bits of old glass from Ancient rubbish-tips could style themselves

who make a living pulling bits of old glass from Ancient rubbish-tips could style themselves

who make a living pulling bits of old glass from Ancient rubbish-tips could style themselves

“archaeologists”, while rich and respected men like Thaddeus Valentine, whose excavations

“archaeologists”, while rich and respected men like Thaddeus Valentine, whose excavations

“archaeologists”, while rich and respected men like Thaddeus Valentine, whose excavations

“archaeologists”, while rich and respected men like Thaddeus Valentine, whose excavations

“archaeologists”, while rich and respected men like Thaddeus Valentine, whose excavations

“archaeologists”, while rich and respected men like Thaddeus Valentine, whose excavations

added mightily to our knowledge of the Ancient world, might be dismissed by their rivals as

added mightily to our knowledge of the Ancient world, might be dismissed by their rivals as

added mightily to our knowledge of the Ancient world, might be dismissed by their rivals as

added mightily to our knowledge of the Ancient world, might be dismissed by their rivals as

“mere scavengers”.

Old-Tech

Technology left over from older, more advanced societies. The term Old-Tech could refer to

Technology left over from older, more advanced societies. The term Old-Tech could refer to

Technology left over from older, more advanced societies. The term Old-Tech could refer to

anything from the useless but attractive “seedies” and “mobiles” which fashionable ladies wore

anything from the useless but attractive “seedies” and “mobiles” which fashionable ladies wore

anything from the useless but attractive “seedies” and “mobiles” which fashionable ladies wore

as jewellery, to the enormously complex Ancient computer brains and weapon systems which

as jewellery, to the enormously complex Ancient computer brains and weapon systems which

as jewellery, to the enormously complex Ancient computer brains and weapon systems which

as jewellery, to the enormously complex Ancient computer brains and weapon systems which

advanced Traction Cities sometimes tried to use for their own purposes, often with disastrous

advanced Traction Cities sometimes tried to use for their own purposes, often with disastrous

advanced Traction Cities sometimes tried to use for their own purposes, often with disastrous

advanced Traction Cities sometimes tried to use for their own purposes, often with disastrous

results. Old-Tech is a staple of trade in the Traction Era, and is always highly valuable.

results. Old-Tech is a staple of trade in the Traction Era, and is always highly valuable.

results. Old-Tech is a staple of trade in the Traction Era, and is always highly valuable.

results. Old-Tech is a staple of trade in the Traction Era, and is always highly valuable.

Set-a-light dishes

Believed by the superstitious technomancers

in the early days of Tractionism to be a form

of illumination, we now know they were used

by the Ancients to broadcast radio signals,

possibly providing their houses with a form

of homing beacon.

HOBB’S caps

Believed to be a form of status symbol among

the Ancients. For a while, giant imitations

were popular on the drive sprockets of cer-

tain Traction Cities, especially Cittamotore.

Seedies

Thin, silver-coloured discs, each with a

Thin, silver-coloured discs, each with a

Thin, silver-coloured discs, each with a

central, circular hole, which have been

central, circular hole, which have been

central, circular hole, which have been

recovered from a variety of ancient sites. It

recovered from a variety of ancient sites. It

recovered from a variety of ancient sites. It

is believed they were used as currency by

is believed they were used as currency by

is believed they were used as currency by

some Ancient cultures.

some Ancient cultures.

some Ancient cultures.

23

FOOLS’ mirrors

Relics of the Screen Age and among the last

Relics of the Screen Age and among the last

creations of the Ancients. Highly prized by

museums and Old-Tech traders around the

museums and Old-Tech traders around the

world not only for their beauty, but also for

world not only for their beauty, but also for

the potential secrets historians insist may be

the potential secrets historians insist may be

locked inside.

Shrike

The most notorious and longest-surviving of all the Stalkers. Originally resurrected – presumably

The most notorious and longest-surviving of all the Stalkers. Originally resurrected – presumably

from the corpse of some unknown soldier – as part of the Movement’s Lazarus Brigade, he went

from the corpse of some unknown soldier – as part of the Movement’s Lazarus Brigade, he went

rogue following the Battle of Three Dry Ships. Unlike most rogue Stalkers he neither destroyed

rogue following the Battle of Three Dry Ships. Unlike most rogue Stalkers he neither destroyed

himself nor ceased to function but survived, carving a bloody trail through the history of the

himself nor ceased to function but survived, carving a bloody trail through the history of the

Stalkers

Also known as

Jaegers

, Resurrected Men and

Panzergeister

. It is disputed whether the

. It is disputed whether the

technology of Stalkers dates to before or after the Sixty Minute War; there is evidence that

technology of Stalkers dates to before or after the Sixty Minute War; there is evidence that

“Remembering Machines” based on human brains were being developed before that calamity.

“Remembering Machines” based on human brains were being developed before that calamity.

The nameless culture which constructed pyramids in the Arctic regions during the Black

The nameless culture which constructed pyramids in the Arctic regions during the Black

Centuries created the devices known as “Stalker brains” which, when inserted into a human

Centuries created the devices known as “Stalker brains” which, when inserted into a human

corpse, restored it to a mindless semblance of life. At some point the technology was militarized,

corpse, restored it to a mindless semblance of life. At some point the technology was militarized,

and used to construct armoured, undead warriors. These became status symbols for the

and used to construct armoured, undead warriors. These became status symbols for the

warlords of the nomad empires and were forged by the Movement into a powerful military unit.

warlords of the nomad empires and were forged by the Movement into a powerful military unit.

London’s Guild of Engineers was fascinated by Stalker technology, and funded many expeditions

London’s Guild of Engineers was fascinated by Stalker technology, and funded many expeditions

to the Ice Wastes in search of it.

24

seems to drop out of history at that point.

seems to drop out of history at that point.

seems to drop out of history at that point.

seems to drop out of history at that point.

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

Some Stalkerologists claim he entered the

service of Magnus Crome, Lord Mayor of

service of Magnus Crome, Lord Mayor of

service of Magnus Crome, Lord Mayor of

service of Magnus Crome, Lord Mayor of

London; some that he was finally killed on

London; some that he was finally killed on

London; some that he was finally killed on

London; some that he was finally killed on

the Black Island; others are not so sure.

the Black Island; others are not so sure.

the Black Island; others are not so sure.

the Black Island; others are not so sure.

following five centuries. It is possible that the

Resurrection technology used to quicken him

was of a superior type, taken from one of the

strange high-Arctic pyramids of the original

Stalker builders. It has also been rumoured

that the surgeon-mechanic who resurrected

him was the legendary Snow Leopard, who

may have had reasons of her own for making

him different from other Stalkers.

Shrike acted as a mercenary for many

different factions during the Second Traction

different factions during the Second Traction

Boom and the final years of the nomad

empires. Later he became state executioner

aboard the Traction City of Paris, then an

assassin for Aleksei Grishna, the notorious

assassin for Aleksei Grishna, the notorious

“Bloody Burgomaster” of Kutsoi. When

“Bloody Burgomaster” of Kutsoi. When

Grishna ordered him to murder the

Grishna ordered him to murder the

young family of a political rival, however,

young family of a political rival, however,

Shrike killed Grishna himself and escaped

Shrike killed Grishna himself and escaped

into the Out-Country, where he became

into the Out-Country, where he became

into the Out-Country, where he became

into the Out-Country, where he became

an effective and much-feared bounty

an effective and much-feared bounty

hunter. This is not the only occasion on

hunter. This is not the only occasion on

which the old Stalker is supposed to have

which the old Stalker is supposed to have

spared or saved the lives of children;

spared or saved the lives of children;

around the dawn of the eleventh century

around the dawn of the eleventh century

he somehow acquired a foster-daughter, a

he somehow acquired a foster-daughter, a

filthy and disfigured waif who lived with

filthy and disfigured waif who lived with

him aboard the scavenger village of Strole

him aboard the scavenger village of Strole

and accompanied him on his hunting trips,

and accompanied him on his hunting trips,

becoming known to Out-Country criminals

as “Death’s Little Helper”. When she

disappeared he went in search of her, and

25

Blue Metal Culture

One of the forgotten civilizations which existed between the end of the Black Centuries and the

One of the forgotten civilizations which existed between the end of the Black Centuries and the

One of the forgotten civilizations which existed between the end of the Black Centuries and the

beginning of the Traction Era, apparently wiped out by plague. They are known to Historians

beginning of the Traction Era, apparently wiped out by plague. They are known to Historians

beginning of the Traction Era, apparently wiped out by plague. They are known to Historians

beginning of the Traction Era, apparently wiped out by plague. They are known to Historians

only by their machines and artefacts, which were made of a bluish alloy. Some credit their tech-

only by their machines and artefacts, which were made of a bluish alloy. Some credit their tech-

only by their machines and artefacts, which were made of a bluish alloy. Some credit their tech-

only by their machines and artefacts, which were made of a bluish alloy. Some credit their tech-

nology with frankly unlikely powers.

nology with frankly unlikely powers.

nology with frankly unlikely powers.

The Black Centuries

After the Ancients destroyed themselves in the Sixty Minute War, there were several thousand

After the Ancients destroyed themselves in the Sixty Minute War, there were several thousand

After the Ancients destroyed themselves in the Sixty Minute War, there were several thousand

years in which Nothing Much Happened. These were the Black Centuries. The mighty dinosaurs,

years in which Nothing Much Happened. These were the Black Centuries. The mighty dinosaurs,

years in which Nothing Much Happened. These were the Black Centuries. The mighty dinosaurs,

years in which Nothing Much Happened. These were the Black Centuries. The mighty dinosaurs,

the fabled ozone layer and the great civilizations of the Screen Age had been utterly swept away,

the fabled ozone layer and the great civilizations of the Screen Age had been utterly swept away,

the fabled ozone layer and the great civilizations of the Screen Age had been utterly swept away,

the fabled ozone layer and the great civilizations of the Screen Age had been utterly swept away,

and humanity was reduced to a few scattered bands of savages, hiding in cellars and caverns

and humanity was reduced to a few scattered bands of savages, hiding in cellars and caverns

and humanity was reduced to a few scattered bands of savages, hiding in cellars and caverns

and humanity was reduced to a few scattered bands of savages, hiding in cellars and caverns

and humanity was reduced to a few scattered bands of savages, hiding in cellars and caverns

to escape the plague-winds and the poisoned rain, and surviving on the canned goods they

to escape the plague-winds and the poisoned rain, and surviving on the canned goods they

to escape the plague-winds and the poisoned rain, and surviving on the canned goods they

managed to dig up from the ruins of their ancestors’ once-mighty cities. It was a savage age,

managed to dig up from the ruins of their ancestors’ once-mighty cities. It was a savage age,

managed to dig up from the ruins of their ancestors’ once-mighty cities. It was a savage age,

managed to dig up from the ruins of their ancestors’ once-mighty cities. It was a savage age,

when life was cheap, and most people would happily have sold their own children for a tin of

when life was cheap, and most people would happily have sold their own children for a tin of

when life was cheap, and most people would happily have sold their own children for a tin of

rice pudding.

Electric Empire

Another lost civilization from the Black

Another lost civilization from the Black

Another lost civilization from the Black

Centuries or soon after. Their electrical

Centuries or soon after. Their electrical

Centuries or soon after. Their electrical

devices are still sought after and studied by

devices are still sought after and studied by

devices are still sought after and studied by

some researchers, who believe they knew the

some researchers, who believe they knew the

some researchers, who believe they knew the

secret of transmitting energy without wires.

secret of transmitting energy without wires.

secret of transmitting energy without wires.

They are thought to have had a connection

They are thought to have had a connection

with the Stalker-builders of the Arctic.

with the Stalker-builders of the Arctic.

26

Spring Cultures

Although much of the world fell into obscure and illiterate barbarism in the Black Centuries,

Although much of the world fell into obscure and illiterate barbarism in the Black Centuries,

Although much of the world fell into obscure and illiterate barbarism in the Black Centuries,

learning and civilization in Africa survived sufficiently to leave many written records of great

learning and civilization in Africa survived sufficiently to leave many written records of great

learning and civilization in Africa survived sufficiently to leave many written records of great

interest to the modern historian. Although the continent was far from unscathed, it was far less

interest to the modern historian. Although the continent was far from unscathed, it was far less

interest to the modern historian. Although the continent was far from unscathed, it was far less

comprehensively devastated by the weapons of the Sixty Minute War, and it was here that the

comprehensively devastated by the weapons of the Sixty Minute War, and it was here that the

comprehensively devastated by the weapons of the Sixty Minute War, and it was here that the

comprehensively devastated by the weapons of the Sixty Minute War, and it was here that the

first flowers of civilization began to bloom afresh. The so-called “Spring Cultures” of the Tibesti

first flowers of civilization began to bloom afresh. The so-called “Spring Cultures” of the Tibesti

first flowers of civilization began to bloom afresh. The so-called “Spring Cultures” of the Tibesti

first flowers of civilization began to bloom afresh. The so-called “Spring Cultures” of the Tibesti

Caliphate, Ogbomosho and KwaZulu Kabusha eventually grew into great trading cultures whose

Caliphate, Ogbomosho and KwaZulu Kabusha eventually grew into great trading cultures whose

Caliphate, Ogbomosho and KwaZulu Kabusha eventually grew into great trading cultures whose

Caliphate, Ogbomosho and KwaZulu Kabusha eventually grew into great trading cultures whose

merchants and missionaries helped to restore civilization to the rest of the world.

merchants and missionaries helped to restore civilization to the rest of the world.

merchants and missionaries helped to restore civilization to the rest of the world.

merchants and missionaries helped to restore civilization to the rest of the world.

Raffia Hat Culture

One of the many cultures which lived and died in the Black Centuries. Terrible earth-storms

One of the many cultures which lived and died in the Black Centuries. Terrible earth-storms

had caused the North Sea to drain away and the Raffia Hat Culture grew up in the marshlands

had caused the North Sea to drain away and the Raffia Hat Culture grew up in the marshlands

had caused the North Sea to drain away and the Raffia Hat Culture grew up in the marshlands

which it left behind. We know of them only by their crude carvings, which show them wearing

which it left behind. We know of them only by their crude carvings, which show them wearing

which it left behind. We know of them only by their crude carvings, which show them wearing

which it left behind. We know of them only by their crude carvings, which show them wearing

giant raffia hats, presumably to protect them against the still-toxic rains of that drab era. The

giant raffia hats, presumably to protect them against the still-toxic rains of that drab era. The

giant raffia hats, presumably to protect them against the still-toxic rains of that drab era. The

giant raffia hats, presumably to protect them against the still-toxic rains of that drab era. The

Historians’ Guild believes that as time passed the hats grew larger and larger, until some were

Historians’ Guild believes that as time passed the hats grew larger and larger, until some were

Historians’ Guild believes that as time passed the hats grew larger and larger, until some were

Historians’ Guild believes that as time passed the hats grew larger and larger, until some were

big enough to cover entire villages. However, this quest for ever-larger hats resulted in the

big enough to cover entire villages. However, this quest for ever-larger hats resulted in the

big enough to cover entire villages. However, this quest for ever-larger hats resulted in the

big enough to cover entire villages. However, this quest for ever-larger hats resulted in the

destruction of the great reed-beds from which the sacred raffia was sourced, and once

destruction of the great reed-beds from which the sacred raffia was sourced, and once

destruction of the great reed-beds from which the sacred raffia was sourced, and once

the existing hats had unravelled there was nothing left to protect the hat-makers from the rains

the existing hats had unravelled there was nothing left to protect the hat-makers from the rains

the existing hats had unravelled there was nothing left to protect the hat-makers from the rains

or bind them together as a civilization; they all drifted away or died of head colds or acute

or bind them together as a civilization; they all drifted away or died of head colds or acute

or bind them together as a civilization; they all drifted away or died of head colds or acute

embarrassment at their uncovered scalps.

embarrassment at their uncovered scalps.

27

THE Zagwan Empire

Foremost among the Spring Cultures was the Zagwan Empire, which rose to prominence several

Foremost among the Spring Cultures was the Zagwan Empire, which rose to prominence several

centuries before the dawn of Tractionism, armed with religious fervour and a resource

centuries before the dawn of Tractionism, armed with religious fervour and a resource

base relatively unspoiled by the Sixty Minute War. Their faith, a fundamentalist offshoot of

base relatively unspoiled by the Sixty Minute War. Their faith, a fundamentalist offshoot of

Christianity, held that the war had been sent by God to punish unbelievers and heretechs, and

Christianity, held that the war had been sent by God to punish unbelievers and heretechs, and

that it was the holy task of Zagwa to finish His work. Although reluctant to use any weapons or

that it was the holy task of Zagwa to finish His work. Although reluctant to use any weapons or

machines not mentioned in the Bible, Zagwa’s large land armies were able to conquer most of

machines not mentioned in the Bible, Zagwa’s large land armies were able to conquer most of

the states and empires of Africa, burning all Old-Tech and complex machinery they discovered

the states and empires of Africa, burning all Old-Tech and complex machinery they discovered

the states and empires of Africa, burning all Old-Tech and complex machinery they discovered

(along with its owners) on enormous pyres under the orders of their Great Synod.

(along with its owners) on enormous pyres under the orders of their Great Synod.

Zagwa expanded vigorously through the second and first centuries BTE, engulfing Timbuktu,

Zagwa expanded vigorously through the second and first centuries BTE, engulfing Timbuktu,

Zagwa expanded vigorously through the second and first centuries BTE, engulfing Timbuktu,

Songhay and Hoggar. Under the benevolent rule of the Archimandrite Zeal-of-the-Land

Songhay and Hoggar. Under the benevolent rule of the Archimandrite Zeal-of-the-Land

Songhay and Hoggar. Under the benevolent rule of the Archimandrite Zeal-of-the-Land

Abimbola in the third century TE, the Zagwans prospered greatly, founding mining towns

Abimbola in the third century TE, the Zagwans prospered greatly, founding mining towns

Abimbola in the third century TE, the Zagwans prospered greatly, founding mining towns

across the Sahara Desert to exploit the rich iron veins of the Slow-Bomb fragments scattered

across the Sahara Desert to exploit the rich iron veins of the Slow-Bomb fragments scattered

across the Sahara Desert to exploit the rich iron veins of the Slow-Bomb fragments scattered

across the Sahara Desert to exploit the rich iron veins of the Slow-Bomb fragments scattered

across the land, and linking them with networks of well-built roads regularly swept clean of sand.

across the land, and linking them with networks of well-built roads regularly swept clean of sand.

By the fifth century TE Zagwan war galleys controlled much of the Middle Sea, and many of the

By the fifth century TE Zagwan war galleys controlled much of the Middle Sea, and many of the

port towns of southern Europa were at least nominally within the Zagwan sphere of influence.

port towns of southern Europa were at least nominally within the Zagwan sphere of influence.

Their vast land empire was held together by a great grid of roads (leading to the phrase “straight

Their vast land empire was held together by a great grid of roads (leading to the phrase “straight

as a Zagwan road”) and an effective “Zebra Express” communications system built around

as a Zagwan road”) and an effective “Zebra Express” communications system built around

zebroid-riding couriers working in shifts from caravanserai to caravanserai.

zebroid-riding couriers working in shifts from caravanserai to caravanserai.

An extremist religious and technophobic revival in the late fifth century TE, under

An extremist religious and technophobic revival in the late fifth century TE, under

Archimandrite Mbakwe, reversed much of the social progress of the previous centuries and led

Archimandrite Mbakwe, reversed much of the social progress of the previous centuries and led

to famine and severe social breakdown, with most blacksmiths, millers, architects and scribes

to famine and severe social breakdown, with most blacksmiths, millers, architects and scribes

purged as crypto-technocrats.

In 509 TE, worried by the deep unpopularity of his reforms and uncertain of the loyalty even

In 509 TE, worried by the deep unpopularity of his reforms and uncertain of the loyalty even

of his Inquisition, Mbakwe attempted to distract the Zagwans from domestic problems by

of his Inquisition, Mbakwe attempted to distract the Zagwans from domestic problems by

declaring a holy war against the mad new technocratic stirrings across the Middle Sea, and

declaring a holy war against the mad new technocratic stirrings across the Middle Sea, and

launched his empire into the disastrous Zagwan Deluge.

28

Relics of the Ancient World

Pyramids dating to Ancient times have been discovered in the glacier fields of the high north.

Numerous accounts from the early days of Tractionism speak of Stalker-brains and other

functioning Old-Tech somehow preserved in them. Other stone pyramids have been found in

the sands of Egypt, the mountains of Persia and the jungles of the Thousand Islands; it is not

known what connection, if any, they have to the northern devices, and none have yet been found

to contain anything more interesting than little statues and fancy boxes full of dead kings.

30

Troll Towers

A number of enormous towers which were scattered across the bed of the dry North Sea (known

A number of enormous towers which were scattered across the bed of the dry North Sea (known

A number of enormous towers which were scattered across the bed of the dry North Sea (known

as the Fuel Country in fourth and fifth century TE). Believed to have been placed by the Ancients

as the Fuel Country in fourth and fifth century TE). Believed to have been placed by the Ancients

as the Fuel Country in fourth and fifth century TE). Believed to have been placed by the Ancients

as watchtowers to guard the oil fields frequently found beneath them, they were occasionally

as watchtowers to guard the oil fields frequently found beneath them, they were occasionally

as watchtowers to guard the oil fields frequently found beneath them, they were occasionally

as watchtowers to guard the oil fields frequently found beneath them, they were occasionally

occupied by hermits and small religious cults. Many nomad kings considered them highly

occupied by hermits and small religious cults. Many nomad kings considered them highly

occupied by hermits and small religious cults. Many nomad kings considered them highly

occupied by hermits and small religious cults. Many nomad kings considered them highly

desirable as strongholds, and battles over towers are frequently mentioned in nomad sagas.

desirable as strongholds, and battles over towers are frequently mentioned in nomad sagas.

desirable as strongholds, and battles over towers are frequently mentioned in nomad sagas.

However, the historian Argus Yomoflach argued persuasively in

However, the historian Argus Yomoflach argued persuasively in

However, the historian Argus Yomoflach argued persuasively in

Wayfarers of the Utter North

that occupiers seldom stayed long, due to the absurd amount of climbing involved in manning

that occupiers seldom stayed long, due to the absurd amount of climbing involved in manning

that occupiers seldom stayed long, due to the absurd amount of climbing involved in manning

that occupiers seldom stayed long, due to the absurd amount of climbing involved in manning

their new possessions.

their new possessions.

their new possessions.

The Dawn of Tractionism

Tractionism came about in a time of great metaphorical and literal upheaval. Much of the world

Tractionism came about in a time of great metaphorical and literal upheaval. Much of the world

Tractionism came about in a time of great metaphorical and literal upheaval. Much of the world

during the Black Centuries was regularly scourged by pyroclastic flows, radiation blooms, or

during the Black Centuries was regularly scourged by pyroclastic flows, radiation blooms, or

during the Black Centuries was regularly scourged by pyroclastic flows, radiation blooms, or

unexpected new seas. The only way the haggard, traumatized tribes of those days could hope

unexpected new seas. The only way the haggard, traumatized tribes of those days could hope

unexpected new seas. The only way the haggard, traumatized tribes of those days could hope

to survive the next horrible weather phenomenon was to up sticks and flee as fast as possible,

to survive the next horrible weather phenomenon was to up sticks and flee as fast as possible,

to survive the next horrible weather phenomenon was to up sticks and flee as fast as possible,

giving rise to the phrase “runaway climate change”. Along with campsite after campsite, the very

giving rise to the phrase “runaway climate change”. Along with campsite after campsite, the very

giving rise to the phrase “runaway climate change”. Along with campsite after campsite, the very

idea of permanent settlement was grudgingly abandoned, with people instead building mobile

idea of permanent settlement was grudgingly abandoned, with people instead building mobile

idea of permanent settlement was grudgingly abandoned, with people instead building mobile

dwellings on wheels or sleds.

It was around 1 TE that the technomancers and engine-witches of these tribes first learned

It was around 1 TE that the technomancers and engine-witches of these tribes first learned

It was around 1 TE that the technomancers and engine-witches of these tribes first learned

how to replicate the half-understood traction technology of the Ancients, and produce engines

how to replicate the half-understood traction technology of the Ancients, and produce engines

how to replicate the half-understood traction technology of the Ancients, and produce engines

which would never tire as long as they were fed a steady diet of wood, coal or petra-oleum. The

which would never tire as long as they were fed a steady diet of wood, coal or petra-oleum. The

which would never tire as long as they were fed a steady diet of wood, coal or petra-oleum. The

itinerant nations of the Great Hunting Ground (at that time known as “Europa”) were the first

itinerant nations of the Great Hunting Ground (at that time known as “Europa”) were the first

to begin attaching the new motors to their wagons and mobile homes. These early machines

to begin attaching the new motors to their wagons and mobile homes. These early machines

to begin attaching the new motors to their wagons and mobile homes. These early machines

seldom went much faster than walking pace, and their popularity spread slower still (even

seldom went much faster than walking pace, and their popularity spread slower still (even

seldom went much faster than walking pace, and their popularity spread slower still (even

amongst the most footsore nomads), but historians generally group this wider process under the

amongst the most footsore nomads), but historians generally group this wider process under the

amongst the most footsore nomads), but historians generally group this wider process under the

neat label “First Traction Boom”.

neat label “First Traction Boom”.

neat label “First Traction Boom”.

People being people, these vehicles were almost immediately used in battle, creating the first

People being people, these vehicles were almost immediately used in battle, creating the first

motor-and-bailey castles. These evolved into ever-larger traction forts and

motor-and-bailey castles. These evolved into ever-larger traction forts and

jagdschlösser

over the

jagdschlösser over thejagdschlösser

subsequent centuries. Smaller nomad vehicles would frequently gather around larger fortresses

subsequent centuries. Smaller nomad vehicles would frequently gather around larger fortresses

for protection. In time, these groups became the early nomad empires, whose immense wagon

for protection. In time, these groups became the early nomad empires, whose immense wagon

trains drove back and forth across the world, stopping only to circle the wagons and do battle

trains drove back and forth across the world, stopping only to circle the wagons and do battle

when the camper-vanguard of one empire brushed up against another.

when the camper-vanguard of one empire brushed up against another.

A superstitious fear of technology, which was widely held to have brought about the fall of the

A superstitious fear of technology, which was widely held to have brought about the fall of the

Ancients, hobbled the development of more powerful and efficient engines. Secrets of combus-

Ancients, hobbled the development of more powerful and efficient engines. Secrets of combus-

tion and locomotion were jealously guarded by technomancers and shaman-mechanics, who

tion and locomotion were jealously guarded by technomancers and shaman-mechanics, who

often had barely any idea what they were doing. Slowly, however, improvements were made, and

often had barely any idea what they were doing. Slowly, however, improvements were made, and

the study of Ancient relics dug from the permafrost of the northern Frost Barrens enabled larger

the study of Ancient relics dug from the permafrost of the northern Frost Barrens enabled larger

and more powerful engines to be built.

and more powerful engines to be built.

31

Early Traction Tribes

The Movement

One of the smallest nomad empires, the Movement was able to hold its larger rivals at bay

for several centuries due to the wisdom of its highly effective technomancers, who gave their

empire both superior landship engines and created numbers of deadly Stalkers. Its last leader,

the great modernizer Land Admiral Nikola Quercus (also known as Nicholas Quirke), is better

known to history as the man who set London moving.

Arkhangelsk

Among the largest and most powerful of the northern nomad tribes for the middle centuries

TE, Arkhangelsk placed the birch taiga of Heklasrand under the leadership of its Great Carns.

The tribe’s considerable strength was eroded by constant strife with the Novaya-Khazak and

Suomi empires. Its subsequent loss of the oil wells of the Fuel Country led to open war with the

Suomi empires. Its subsequent loss of the oil wells of the Fuel Country led to open war with the

Movement.

32

Arkhangelsk landship Movement land ironclad

Floemads

An early nomadic culture known for fitting icebergs with outboard motors and using them as

An early nomadic culture known for fitting icebergs with outboard motors and using them as

An early nomadic culture known for fitting icebergs with outboard motors and using them as

buoyant, if chilly, dwellings and fishing vessels. The descendants of floemad housebergs can still

buoyant, if chilly, dwellings and fishing vessels. The descendants of floemad housebergs can still

buoyant, if chilly, dwellings and fishing vessels. The descendants of floemad housebergs can still

be seen in certain hybrid ice cities.

be seen in certain hybrid ice cities.

Cluny Morvish

The warrior queen of the Arkhangelsk nomad

The warrior queen of the Arkhangelsk nomad

The warrior queen of the Arkhangelsk nomad

The warrior queen of the Arkhangelsk nomad

tribe, who led their assault on the newly

tribe, who led their assault on the newly

tribe, who led their assault on the newly

tribe, who led their assault on the newly

motorized London at the Battle of Three

motorized London at the Battle of Three

motorized London at the Battle of Three

motorized London at the Battle of Three

Dry Ships. Blinded during the fighting, she

Dry Ships. Blinded during the fighting, she

Dry Ships. Blinded during the fighting, she

retreated with a few elements of the

retreated with a few elements of the

retreated with a few elements of the

Arkhangelsk convoy to a site called Oakwall,

Arkhangelsk convoy to a site called Oakwall,

Arkhangelsk convoy to a site called Oakwall,

but the advancing ice-sheets soon rendered

but the advancing ice-sheets soon rendered

but the advancing ice-sheets soon rendered

it uninhabitable. Joining up with several

it uninhabitable. Joining up with several

other nomad convoys, the Arkhangelsk

other nomad convoys, the Arkhangelsk

remnants became a powerful force during

remnants became a powerful force during

the Wheeled War, largely thanks to the

the Wheeled War, largely thanks to the

engineering skills of Queen Cluny’s

engineering skills of Queen Cluny’s

engineering skills of Queen Cluny’s

technomancer, Fever Crumb. When the

technomancer, Fever Crumb. When the

technomancer, Fever Crumb. When the

Arkangelsk attacked the newly under-

Arkangelsk attacked the newly under-

Arkangelsk attacked the newly under-

construction mobile city of Rostok in 487

construction mobile city of Rostok in 487

construction mobile city of Rostok in 487

TE, Cluny ordered her people not to burn

TE, Cluny ordered her people not to burn

TE, Cluny ordered her people not to burn

TE, Cluny ordered her people not to burn

33

it but to incorporate their wagons and land

it but to incorporate their wagons and land

fortresses into its structure, creating the

modern city of Arkangel.

The Birth of

Anti-Tractionism

Anti-Tractionism is more than simply the state of not moving around on a dangerous motorized

Anti-Tractionism is more than simply the state of not moving around on a dangerous motorized

Anti-Tractionism is more than simply the state of not moving around on a dangerous motorized

Anti-Tractionism is more than simply the state of not moving around on a dangerous motorized

platform. It is a broad and complex cultural phenomenon and political tradition, born out of a

platform. It is a broad and complex cultural phenomenon and political tradition, born out of a

combination of general technoscepticism, a cultural revulsion at the idea of nomad life, and a

combination of general technoscepticism, a cultural revulsion at the idea of nomad life, and a

practical dislike of mad nomads in smoke-belching landships tearing through your countryside

practical dislike of mad nomads in smoke-belching landships tearing through your countryside

practical dislike of mad nomads in smoke-belching landships tearing through your countryside

and leaving a smear of trackmarks and corpses.

and leaving a smear of trackmarks and corpses.

and leaving a smear of trackmarks and corpses.

and leaving a smear of trackmarks and corpses.

Anti-Tractionism took root strongly in eastern Eurasia almost as soon as news of the uncouth

Tractionist phenomenon arrived. The general response among the civilized peoples of the east

was to build walls – lots of walls. Though politically its roots can be traced to an alliance of

was to build walls – lots of walls. Though politically its roots can be traced to an alliance of

upland nobles based around the static city of Tienjing, Shan Guonese legend holds that the

upland nobles based around the static city of Tienjing, Shan Guonese legend holds that the

League began in spirit when Lama Batmunkh laid the first stone in what was to become the

League began in spirit when Lama Batmunkh laid the first stone in what was to become the

Shield-Wall.

While Tractionist historians sniffily point out that specific references to an “Anti-Traction League”

While Tractionist historians sniffily point out that specific references to an “Anti-Traction League”

do not begin until many centuries later, and postmodernist historians contend that the concept

do not begin until many centuries later, and postmodernist historians contend that the concept

of “walls” merely represents a pseudosemiotic discourse derived from the deconstruction

of “walls” merely represents a pseudosemiotic discourse derived from the deconstruction

of subcultural narratives, it is generally agreed that Batmunkh’s act inspired a vast collective

of subcultural narratives, it is generally agreed that Batmunkh’s act inspired a vast collective

wall-building effort among the eastern kingdoms. The Mortar and Harmony Period, as it later

wall-building effort among the eastern kingdoms. The Mortar and Harmony Period, as it later

came to be known, pooled the resources of the flatland kingdoms that had long sought to keep

came to be known, pooled the resources of the flatland kingdoms that had long sought to keep

marauding nomads from their territory, and the monastic mountain orders who wished for

marauding nomads from their territory, and the monastic mountain orders who wished for

better feng shui in the shape of the nations all about them. Walls were laid out according to the

better feng shui in the shape of the nations all about them. Walls were laid out according to the

Eight Trigrams and the principles of overlapping fields of fire.

34

Lama

Batmunkh

A warrior monk who lived in the Tien Shan

mountains around 1 TE. On seeing the rise

of Tractionism among the nomads of the

region, he issued his great proclamation,

the Pronouncement at Leaping Tiger Gorge,

which is commonly translated as “We’re not

having any of that silly traction nonsense

having any of that silly traction nonsense

here!”, but probably sounded much more

here!”, but probably sounded much more

impressive in the original Shan Guonese.

impressive in the original Shan Guonese.

Like-minded people, driven from the

Like-minded people, driven from the

lowlands by the traction nomads, flocked

lowlands by the traction nomads, flocked

to Batmunkh’s fortified monastery (or

to Batmunkh’s fortified monastery (or

“Gompa”). While much rewriting and

“Gompa”). While much rewriting and

destruction of archives by the fanatical

destruction of archives by the fanatical

Anti-Tractionist group Green Storm has

Anti-Tractionist group Green Storm has

obscured the historical record, it is not

obscured the historical record, it is not

impossible that he presided over the great

impossible that he presided over the great

The walls at one point stretched from the Novosibirsk crater-clover to Kandahar, combining

The walls at one point stretched from the Novosibirsk crater-clover to Kandahar, combining

The walls at one point stretched from the Novosibirsk crater-clover to Kandahar, combining

powerful symbolism with an obstacle that presented far more trouble to roving land-ships than

powerful symbolism with an obstacle that presented far more trouble to roving land-ships than

powerful symbolism with an obstacle that presented far more trouble to roving land-ships than

powerful symbolism with an obstacle that presented far more trouble to roving land-ships than

it was worth. While initially just a mutual defence-and-cosmic-harmony arrangement among

it was worth. While initially just a mutual defence-and-cosmic-harmony arrangement among

it was worth. While initially just a mutual defence-and-cosmic-harmony arrangement among

it was worth. While initially just a mutual defence-and-cosmic-harmony arrangement among

a loose confederation of eastern states, with the rise of Traction Cities in the fifth and sixth

a loose confederation of eastern states, with the rise of Traction Cities in the fifth and sixth

centuries TE the League consolidated into a formal alliance and its member states contributed

centuries TE the League consolidated into a formal alliance and its member states contributed

to a standing military.

assembly of upland nobles that gathered at

assembly of upland nobles that gathered at

assembly of upland nobles that gathered at

assembly of upland nobles that gathered at

Tienjing to form what would become the

Tienjing to form what would become the

Tienjing to form what would become the

Anti-Traction League. As the League grew

Anti-Traction League. As the League grew

Anti-Traction League. As the League grew

in power and cohesiveness in the fifth and

in power and cohesiveness in the fifth and

in power and cohesiveness in the fifth and

sixth centuries TE, Lama Batmunkh became

sixth centuries TE, Lama Batmunkh became

increasingly revered as its founder and

increasingly revered as its founder and

prophet. Had he not, when viewing the

prophet. Had he not, when viewing the

wrecks of Rus landships after the Siege of

wrecks of Rus landships after the Siege of

Churlish Badger Mountain, declared, “These

Churlish Badger Mountain, declared, “These

things will lead to trouble, you mark my

things will lead to trouble, you mark my

words”? Again, it probably sounded better in

words”? Again, it probably sounded better in

words”? Again, it probably sounded better in

words”? Again, it probably sounded better in

the original.

35

Mammoths

Mammuthus novii

Reported to have disappeared from the Earth long before the Sixty Minute War, it has never

Reported to have disappeared from the Earth long before the Sixty Minute War, it has never

been clear whether the huge shaggy mammoths of the Frost Barrens are the same ancient

been clear whether the huge shaggy mammoths of the Frost Barrens are the same ancient

creatures which survived the Black Centuries, or the descendants of African and Asian elephants

creatures which survived the Black Centuries, or the descendants of African and Asian elephants

which simply grew lots of hair to deal with the chilly new era. Archaeozoologist Werner Persil

which simply grew lots of hair to deal with the chilly new era. Archaeozoologist Werner Persil

has promoted an influential third theory, claiming that the ancestors of these “Hairyphants”

has promoted an influential third theory, claiming that the ancestors of these “Hairyphants”

voluntarily went into cryo-hibernation in glaciers for many centuries. Regardless, some of these

voluntarily went into cryo-hibernation in glaciers for many centuries. Regardless, some of these

most iconic creatures of the High North are still plodding the high tundra and they, and the ivory

most iconic creatures of the High North are still plodding the high tundra and they, and the ivory

most iconic creatures of the High North are still plodding the high tundra and they, and the ivory

of their huge tusks, form an important part of Snowmad culture.

of their huge tusks, form an important part of Snowmad culture.

36

MUTANT CREATURES OF THE BLACK CENTURIES

Many curious species emerged and flourished in the turmoil of the Black Centuries, their

Many curious species emerged and flourished in the turmoil of the Black Centuries, their

development hastened by the radiation sleet and the selection pressures of a world torn apart at

development hastened by the radiation sleet and the selection pressures of a world torn apart at

the fault lines. Some, like the Pyroclastic Ray

Mobula bethanii

and the possibly mythical Sapient

and the possibly mythical Sapient

Rad-Apple, are entirely lost to history, and most declined when global climates settled down

Rad-Apple, are entirely lost to history, and most declined when global climates settled down

again in the middle Traction Era, but many creatures that the Ancients never knew survive to

again in the middle Traction Era, but many creatures that the Ancients never knew survive to

this day.

WAR-Zebra

Equus quagga horribilis

Equus quagga horribilis

“You can’t ride zebra!” scoffed the other Spring Cultures, shortly before their armies were

“You can’t ride zebra!” scoffed the other Spring Cultures, shortly before their armies were

“You can’t ride zebra!” scoffed the other Spring Cultures, shortly before their armies were

“You can’t ride zebra!” scoffed the other Spring Cultures, shortly before their armies were

37

Shockroaches

Blattere torpus

Due to their great radiation resistance and inherent general resilience, cockroaches flourished

Due to their great radiation resistance and inherent general resilience, cockroaches flourished

Due to their great radiation resistance and inherent general resilience, cockroaches flourished

Due to their great radiation resistance and inherent general resilience, cockroaches flourished

through the Black Centuries and may indeed have saved the human race through those darkest

through the Black Centuries and may indeed have saved the human race through those darkest

through the Black Centuries and may indeed have saved the human race through those darkest

through the Black Centuries and may indeed have saved the human race through those darkest

through the Black Centuries and may indeed have saved the human race through those darkest

hours by serving as a common, reliable source of protein. In protest at being considered a

hours by serving as a common, reliable source of protein. In protest at being considered a

hours by serving as a common, reliable source of protein. In protest at being considered a

common, reliable source of protein, one particular species developed the ability to generate

common, reliable source of protein, one particular species developed the ability to generate

common, reliable source of protein, one particular species developed the ability to generate

a strong electric shock when touched, dissuading all but the hungriest predators. These

a strong electric shock when touched, dissuading all but the hungriest predators. These

a strong electric shock when touched, dissuading all but the hungriest predators. These

shockroaches still flourish in the temperate parts of the Great Hunting Ground and have a nasty

shockroaches still flourish in the temperate parts of the Great Hunting Ground and have a nasty

shockroaches still flourish in the temperate parts of the Great Hunting Ground and have a nasty

shockroaches still flourish in the temperate parts of the Great Hunting Ground and have a nasty

shockroaches still flourish in the temperate parts of the Great Hunting Ground and have a nasty

shockroaches still flourish in the temperate parts of the Great Hunting Ground and have a nasty

habit of clinging to the lower decks of suburbs and imbuing the decks with an unpleasant

habit of clinging to the lower decks of suburbs and imbuing the decks with an unpleasant

habit of clinging to the lower decks of suburbs and imbuing the decks with an unpleasant

habit of clinging to the lower decks of suburbs and imbuing the decks with an unpleasant

habit of clinging to the lower decks of suburbs and imbuing the decks with an unpleasant

static charge.

static charge.

static charge.

static charge.

shattered by Zagwa’s fearsome zebra caval-

ry, the so-called Stripy Whirlwind. Possibly

ry, the so-called Stripy Whirlwind. Possibly

the result of ambitious Ancient breeding

programmes, possibly one of the more

useful of the widespread mutations born out

the Black Centuries,

Equus quagga horribilis

are a far more muscular, aggressive cousin to

the plains zebra. They are effective as cavalry

the plains zebra. They are effective as cavalry

mounts but very prone to biting and spitting.

Their stripes made Zagwan zebra cavalry

Their stripes made Zagwan zebra cavalry

harder targets as they thundered across the

Savannah, and the dazzle camouflage effect is

widely believed to have led to their collective

name, a “dazzle” or “confusion” of zebras.

ANGELS

Larus sapiens

Larus sapiens

Large, toothed gulls that haunt the archipelago of the World’s End and the eastern shores of

Large, toothed gulls that haunt the archipelago of the World’s End and the eastern shores of

Large, toothed gulls that haunt the archipelago of the World’s End and the eastern shores of

Nuevo Maya, these “angels” became legendary for their rumoured intelligence in the early years

Nuevo Maya, these “angels” became legendary for their rumoured intelligence in the early years

Nuevo Maya, these “angels” became legendary for their rumoured intelligence in the early years

TE. Pixar of Thelona, writing his seminal

TE. Pixar of Thelona, writing his seminal

Zoologia Mutandis

in the third century TE, claimed

that they had a language of their own containing more than two hundred words. Their modern

that they had a language of their own containing more than two hundred words. Their modern

descendants lack this power of speech, if indeed they ever had it, but to the irritation of all

descendants lack this power of speech, if indeed they ever had it, but to the irritation of all

they are still generally bright enough to steal ice creams from the hands of the unsuspecting,

they are still generally bright enough to steal ice creams from the hands of the unsuspecting,

open rubbish bins and otherwise cause an unbelievable mess.

open rubbish bins and otherwise cause an unbelievable mess.

38

Nightwights

“Nomads on the tundra, Snowmads on the

ice-wastes,

Floemads on the cold sea’s swells.

Moss-folk in the old towns, Elf-folk in the forest,

Nightwights in the dark beneath the fells.”

-Arkhangelsk nursery rhyme

Legendary creatures, possibly linked to

the mysterious Alpini believed to lurk in the

the mysterious Alpini believed to lurk in the

ancient tunnels beneath the Shatterhorns.

Arkangel legends have it that their city was

partly founded by surviving nightwights,

and characteristics associated with these

purported ancestors – porcelain-pale skin,

dark bulging eyes and an aversion to light –

are highly regarded among the ruling classes

are highly regarded among the ruling classes

of that city.

of that city.

Genotaurs

Novibos excelsior

Novibos excelsior

The genotauro cattle who wander the

The genotauro cattle who wander the

Pampas del Sur are generally believed to owe

Pampas del Sur are generally believed to owe

their size, strength and excellent flavour to

their size, strength and excellent flavour to

genetic engineering before the Sixty Minute

genetic engineering before the Sixty Minute

War. They more closely resemble the

War. They more closely resemble the

ancient aurochs than the now-extinct cattle

ancient aurochs than the now-extinct cattle

of the Great Hunting Ground (the last

of the Great Hunting Ground (the last

Friesian having died in captivity in a Bremen

Friesian having died in captivity in a Bremen

zoo in 885 TE).

zoo in 885 TE).

39

The Scriven

An extinct mutant offshoot of humanity who thrived among the nomad empires of the north

An extinct mutant offshoot of humanity who thrived among the nomad empires of the north

in the second and third centuries TE. Referring to themselves as

in the second and third centuries TE. Referring to themselves as

Homo superior

(or sometimes

Homo superior (or sometimesHomo superior

Homo futuris

), they claimed to be a separate species from the rest of humanity, and a few

), they claimed to be a separate species from the rest of humanity, and a few

surviving paintings show them as having speckled skins, though whether this was the result of

surviving paintings show them as having speckled skins, though whether this was the result of

natural pigmentation, or was achieved by make-up or tattoos, we cannot know. Cruel, capricious

natural pigmentation, or was achieved by make-up or tattoos, we cannot know. Cruel, capricious

and prone to scientific brilliance, the Scriven were individually long-lived but as a species

and prone to scientific brilliance, the Scriven were individually long-lived but as a species

very short-lived; they were largely purged from Europa by the middle of the fifth century TE.

very short-lived; they were largely purged from Europa by the middle of the fifth century TE.

The scientist Fever Crumb (462-unknown) claimed that they were related to the Nightwights

The scientist Fever Crumb (462-unknown) claimed that they were related to the Nightwights

who were once thought to haunt the wastes and marches of the north, and that both races had a

who were once thought to haunt the wastes and marches of the north, and that both races had a

connection to the mysterious Arctic pyramid-builders.

Auric Godshawk

The Peppered Tyrant, the Last King of London, technomancer-lord of the Scriven, a semi-

mythological figure of the fifth century TE who has found his way into almost every legend

of those years. Some of the most popular and enduring stories about Godshawk hold that he

bargained with sea-gods at the World’s End for the fastest ship ever known; that he could change

form from a man to a woman and back again; that he voyaged to the uttermost north to plunder

the tombs of the Ancients among glaciers which wept blood; and that the night he was skinned

he had discovered the secret of immortality. Among the tiny statics of the Mediterranean coast,

his name is associated with a trickster figure who wandered the seas offering the service of his

fighting demons, and among the Snowmads his name is spoken darkly as the King of

Nightwights.

Auric Godshawk almost certainly existed (although some historians have suggested that

“Godshawk” was in fact a title used by a number of rulers, which might account for the

40

extraordinary spread of places and years in

extraordinary spread of places and years in

which his name shows up) but even the most

which his name shows up) but even the most

substantiated facts about his life beggar

substantiated facts about his life beggar

belief; he appears to have been a warlord who

belief; he appears to have been a warlord who

ruled the city of London for many decades,

ruled the city of London for many decades,

advanced the cause of science immensely

advanced the cause of science immensely

through his study of Old-Tech archaeology,

through his study of Old-Tech archaeology,

and was overthrown in the process of

and was overthrown in the process of

building a mile-high statue of himself (most

building a mile-high statue of himself (most

cryptically at all, he appears to have started

cryptically at all, he appears to have started

from the

head

).

Godshawk has almost equal stature in

Godshawk has almost equal stature in

Tractionist engineering as in folk mythology.

Tractionist engineering as in folk mythology.

He is credited with the design of the

He is credited with the design of the

simple-to-produce but immensely efficient

simple-to-produce but immensely efficient

Godshawk-pattern land engines, which

Godshawk-pattern land engines, which

form the basis of all modern city-engines.

form the basis of all modern city-engines.

He is considered a minor god in the engine

He is considered a minor god in the engine

districts of some cities, and the London

districts of some cities, and the London

design bureau Godshawk Aviation was once

design bureau Godshawk Aviation was once

named for him, although they rebranded

named for him, although they rebranded

named for him, although they rebranded

to Goshawk in 955 TE after defective

to Goshawk in 955 TE after defective

to Goshawk in 955 TE after defective

girderwork caused unexpected catastrophic

girderwork caused unexpected catastrophic

girderwork caused unexpected catastrophic

deflation in their line of Godshawk 50

deflation in their line of Godshawk 50

deflation in their line of Godshawk 50

scoutships.

41

Nicholas

Quirke

Originally called Nikola Quercus, his name

Originally called Nikola Quercus, his name

Originally called Nikola Quercus, his name

Originally called Nikola Quercus, his name

Originally called Nikola Quercus, his name

was steadily Londonized in the centuries

was steadily Londonized in the centuries

was steadily Londonized in the centuries

was steadily Londonized in the centuries

was steadily Londonized in the centuries

following his conquest of London and

following his conquest of London and

following his conquest of London and

following his conquest of London and

conversion of the city into a vehicle. Quirke

conversion of the city into a vehicle. Quirke

conversion of the city into a vehicle. Quirke

conversion of the city into a vehicle. Quirke

was originally a minor warlord in the nomad

was originally a minor warlord in the nomad

was originally a minor warlord in the nomad

empire called the Movement, but became its

empire called the Movement, but became its

empire called the Movement, but became its

leader around 468 or 469 by defeating several

leader around 468 or 469 by defeating several

rivals, and led the Movement as a dynamic

rivals, and led the Movement as a dynamic

rivals, and led the Movement as a dynamic

and effective leader. He can, along with

and effective leader. He can, along with

and effective leader. He can, along with

Dr Crumb, be considered one of the

Dr Crumb, be considered one of the

Dr Crumb, be considered one of the

Fathers of Tractionism.

Fathers of Tractionism.

Quirke was revered during the Golden Age

Quirke was revered during the Golden Age

Quirke was revered during the Golden Age

of Tractionism as the founder of Municipal

of Tractionism as the founder of Municipal

of Tractionism as the founder of Municipal

Darwinism, and in London many streets

Darwinism, and in London many streets

Darwinism, and in London many streets

and public spaces bear his name. In 677, the

and public spaces bear his name. In 677, the

and public spaces bear his name. In 677, the

Guild of Engineers pushed a motion through

Guild of Engineers pushed a motion through

Guild of Engineers pushed a motion through

council declaring Quirke a deity, and he

council declaring Quirke a deity, and he

council declaring Quirke a deity, and he

quickly became London’s chief god, eclipsing

quickly became London’s chief god, eclipsing

quickly became London’s chief god, eclipsing

the original gods of the city such as Poskitt

the original gods of the city such as Poskitt

the original gods of the city such as Poskitt

and St Kylie. By 726 Quirke worship was so

and St Kylie. By 726 Quirke worship was so

and St Kylie. By 726 Quirke worship was so

popular that the midwinter festival had been

popular that the midwinter festival had been

popular that the midwinter festival had been

renamed “Quirkemas”. Banknotes issued by

renamed “Quirkemas”. Banknotes issued by

renamed “Quirkemas”. Banknotes issued by

the Bank of London bore his portrait and

the Bank of London bore his portrait and

the Bank of London bore his portrait and

were known as “Quirkes”.

42

The Scriven technomancer Wavey Godshawk in the heart chamber of Quirke’s Traction

Fortress, beside the ancient oak-tree which was the totem of his clan.

The Movement’s

Invasion of London

Thanks to Quirke’s friendship with the fugitive Scriven technomancer Wavey Godshawk, he

learned of the gigantic engines which had been designed by London’s deposed ruler: her father,

Auric Godshawk. Quirke brought his forces south in 477 to seize both the city and Godshawk’s

prototype. The Movement landships and traction fortress easily overwhelmed the Trained Bands

at the Battle of Welcome Break, and pressed on into the city itself, where they met with little

opposition, apart from a drunken brawl with a particularly cantankerous pub landlord.

Almost all accounts from the battle describe the presence of an enormous orb flying over the

Almost all accounts from the battle describe the presence of an enormous orb flying over the

battlefield; some accounts suggest that this was an early hot-air balloon unsuccessfully used by

London’s defenders, others that it was a sign of the Eye of Nazara bringing good fortune on the

Movement’s advancing troops with its flaming vision.

The mobilization of London quickly entangled the Movement in numerous wars, with bitter

fighting around Hill 60 against the Arkhangelsk. Eventually, a schism occurred between those

loyal to Quirke and those opposed to the mobilization of London, a division ultimately resolved

loyal to Quirke and those opposed to the mobilization of London, a division ultimately resolved

at the Battle of Three Dry Ships.

at the Battle of Three Dry Ships.

The Lazarus Brigade

The shock troops of the Movement, a legendary company of Stalkers assembled by a mysterious

The shock troops of the Movement, a legendary company of Stalkers assembled by a mysterious

The shock troops of the Movement, a legendary company of Stalkers assembled by a mysterious

figure known as the “Snow Leopard”. This legion of armoured dead gave Movement armies

figure known as the “Snow Leopard”. This legion of armoured dead gave Movement armies

figure known as the “Snow Leopard”. This legion of armoured dead gave Movement armies

figure known as the “Snow Leopard”. This legion of armoured dead gave Movement armies

an immense tactical and psychological advantage over their nomad rivals, and fought in

an immense tactical and psychological advantage over their nomad rivals, and fought in

an immense tactical and psychological advantage over their nomad rivals, and fought in

an immense tactical and psychological advantage over their nomad rivals, and fought in

countless battles until they were finally wiped out at the Battle of Three Dry Ships. A few

countless battles until they were finally wiped out at the Battle of Three Dry Ships. A few

countless battles until they were finally wiped out at the Battle of Three Dry Ships. A few

countless battles until they were finally wiped out at the Battle of Three Dry Ships. A few

survivors continued to haunt the north for many years after the battle, including the terrible

survivors continued to haunt the north for many years after the battle, including the terrible

survivors continued to haunt the north for many years after the battle, including the terrible

survivors continued to haunt the north for many years after the battle, including the terrible

Stalker known as “Shrike”.

45

The Order of Engineers

The ancestors of the modern-day London Guild of Engineers evolved out of an earlier “Order”

The ancestors of the modern-day London Guild of Engineers evolved out of an earlier “Order”

or “Society” of Engineers, founded by the technologically-curious Scriven nomads during

or “Society” of Engineers, founded by the technologically-curious Scriven nomads during

their rule of pre-Traction London. Based in Godshawk’s Head – a happy coincidence, as they

their rule of pre-Traction London. Based in Godshawk’s Head – a happy coincidence, as they

considered themselves the “brains of the city” – they proved invaluable to London’s New

considered themselves the “brains of the city” – they proved invaluable to London’s New

Management when Nicholas Quirke arrived to motorize the city.

Management when Nicholas Quirke arrived to motorize the city.

Getting London Moving

London was revolutionized under the Movement’s rule, with great areas of the city torn down

London was revolutionized under the Movement’s rule, with great areas of the city torn down

and rebuilt. The resources of the Movement were devoted to organizing the construction of the

and rebuilt. The resources of the Movement were devoted to organizing the construction of the

new city and protecting the land barges that were bringing in supplies; London even briefly

new city and protecting the land barges that were bringing in supplies; London even briefly

had a navy, with the steam rams

Supercollider

and

Supercollider andSupercollider

Large Blunt Object

Large Blunt Object

built to defend the supply

Large Blunt Object built to defend the supplyLarge Blunt Object

convoys sailing to Brighton and Chunnel.

The vast project of rebuilding and motorizing London started shortly after Quirke’s arrival, and

The vast project of rebuilding and motorizing London started shortly after Quirke’s arrival, and

was completed with astonishing speed, although the cost of doing so led to civil war within the

was completed with astonishing speed, although the cost of doing so led to civil war within the

Movement, and most historians believe that London was far from ready when fresh invasions

Movement, and most historians believe that London was far from ready when fresh invasions

from the north forced it to begin moving. It was not until long after Quirke’s death that it would

from the north forced it to begin moving. It was not until long after Quirke’s death that it would

be completed.

Official histories of London offer few theories about what happened to the large numbers of

Official histories of London offer few theories about what happened to the large numbers of

migrant workers employed in the city’s construction who were surplus to its final moving

migrant workers employed in the city’s construction who were surplus to its final moving

population; presumably they later found work in the construction sites of other cities, and

population; presumably they later found work in the construction sites of other cities, and

population; presumably they later found work in the construction sites of other cities, and

travelled happily from city-womb to city-womb, pleased to be part of the transformation of the

travelled happily from city-womb to city-womb, pleased to be part of the transformation of the

travelled happily from city-womb to city-womb, pleased to be part of the transformation of the

world.

46

46

47

Dr Crumb

While Quirke has become the legendary

While Quirke has become the legendary

While Quirke has become the legendary

While Quirke has become the legendary

Father of Municipal Darwinism, many people

Father of Municipal Darwinism, many people

Father of Municipal Darwinism, many people

Father of Municipal Darwinism, many people

– especially those of an engineering

– especially those of an engineering

– especially those of an engineering

– especially those of an engineering

persuasion – have argued that it is really his

persuasion – have argued that it is really his

persuasion – have argued that it is really his

persuasion – have argued that it is really his

Chief Engineer, Dr Crumb (or Crome), who

Chief Engineer, Dr Crumb (or Crome), who

Chief Engineer, Dr Crumb (or Crome), who

Chief Engineer, Dr Crumb (or Crome), who

Chief Engineer, Dr Crumb (or Crome), who

should be credited with making the city move.

should be credited with making the city move.

should be credited with making the city move.

should be credited with making the city move.

should be credited with making the city move.

Crumb masterminded the construction

Crumb masterminded the construction

Crumb masterminded the construction

Crumb masterminded the construction

Crumb masterminded the construction

of the first ever Traction City, bringing his

of the first ever Traction City, bringing his

of the first ever Traction City, bringing his

of the first ever Traction City, bringing his

of the first ever Traction City, bringing his

formidable mind and a rational, scientific

formidable mind and a rational, scientific

formidable mind and a rational, scientific

formidable mind and a rational, scientific

formidable mind and a rational, scientific

approach to the immense engineering

approach to the immense engineering

approach to the immense engineering

approach to the immense engineering

approach to the immense engineering

challenges of building a moving town which

challenges of building a moving town which

challenges of building a moving town which

challenges of building a moving town which

challenges of building a moving town which

wouldn’t fall apart.

wouldn’t fall apart.

Crumb is credited with inventing the basic

Crumb is credited with inventing the basic

Crumb is credited with inventing the basic

Crumb is credited with inventing the basic

Crumb is credited with inventing the basic

tier system structure and space ratios of the

tier system structure and space ratios of the

tier system structure and space ratios of the

tier system structure and space ratios of the

tier system structure and space ratios of the

Traction City, and while technical advances

Traction City, and while technical advances

Traction City, and while technical advances

Traction City, and while technical advances

Traction City, and while technical advances

have allowed for higher population and

have allowed for higher population and

have allowed for higher population and

have allowed for higher population and

have allowed for higher population and

reduced engine space, the Crome Equations

reduced engine space, the Crome Equations

reduced engine space, the Crome Equations

reduced engine space, the Crome Equations

reduced engine space, the Crome Equations

of tier geometry and his triple-kneed

of tier geometry and his triple-kneed

of tier geometry and his triple-kneed

of tier geometry and his triple-kneed

of tier geometry and his triple-kneed

shock-absorber are still widely employed in

shock-absorber are still widely employed in

shock-absorber are still widely employed in

shock-absorber are still widely employed in

shock-absorber are still widely employed in

city design. His name is also associated with

city design. His name is also associated with

city design. His name is also associated with

city design. His name is also associated with

city design. His name is also associated with

less successful inventions, such as the widely

less successful inventions, such as the widely

less successful inventions, such as the widely

less successful inventions, such as the widely

less successful inventions, such as the widely

hated “beehive” prefab housing units used in

hated “beehive” prefab housing units used in

hated “beehive” prefab housing units used in

hated “beehive” prefab housing units used in

many early Traction Cities.

many early Traction Cities.

Crumb’s social theories regarding taxation

Crumb’s social theories regarding taxation

Crumb’s social theories regarding taxation

and collectivism were very influential

and collectivism were very influential

and collectivism were very influential

throughout the Second Traction Boom. He

throughout the Second Traction Boom. He

throughout the Second Traction Boom. He

predicted the ways in which cities would

predicted the ways in which cities would

predicted the ways in which cities would

adapt to exploit different environmental

adapt to exploit different environmental

adapt to exploit different environmental

niches, a theory which proved highly

influential with the builders of amphibious

raft cities and specialized mining and

raft cities and specialized mining and

raft cities and specialized mining and

raft cities and specialized mining and

scavenging towns during the Third Traction

scavenging towns during the Third Traction

Boom.

Boom.

The First Traction Boom is

triggered by the rediscovery

of the internal combustion

engine.

The Scriven, an eccentric

nomad empire, conquer

London.

Breakaway elements of the

Ostertraktionreich form a new

mobile empire, the Movement.

Fall of the Scriven in

London. Fever Crumb

born.

1 TE
260 TE
463 TE267 TE

48

Timeline of the

Traction Era

49

Nikola Quercus becomes

Land Admiral of the

Movement.

Traction London joins the Battle of

Traction London joins the Battle of

Three Dry Ships, signalling the end

Three Dry Ships, signalling the end

of one era of Tractionism and the

of one era of Tractionism and the

dawn of a new one.

The mobilization of London sparks

the Second Traction Boom, as stolen

copies of Godshawk Land Engines spread

across Western Europa and both static and

nomad empires embark on a feverish

programme of city-building. Remnants

of the nomad empires, Anti-Tractionist

punitive expeditions, and the first

generation of Traction Cities all fight each

other, resulting in four decades of general

violence, misery and horror known as the

Wheeled War.

Wheeled War.

480 –
520 TE
469 TE 477 TE 480 TE

The Movement conquers

The Movement conquers

London.

50

600–900 TE (Approx): The Golden

600–900 TE (Approx): The Golden

Age of Traction; large mobile cities

thrive, with plenty of smaller towns and

surviving static settlements for all to

eat, and an unofficial truce is called

with the Anti-Traction League. Many

cities reproduce, building suburbs to

carry away their surplus populations

and spread their cultures. The air-trade

also booms, and great leaps forward in

airship technology occur.

520 TE: The Diet of Ulp. The leading

Traction Cities, having worked to-

Traction Cities, having worked to-

gether to defeat the Zagwan Deluge,

gether to defeat the Zagwan Deluge,

sign a formal truce. Signatories in-

sign a formal truce. Signatories in-

clude the Lord Mayors of London,

clude the Lord Mayors of London,

Motoropolis, Novi Karlovac and

Motoropolis, Novi Karlovac and

Motoropolis, Novi Karlovac and

Motoropolis, Novi Karlovac and

Murnau. The Third Traction Boom

Murnau. The Third Traction Boom

begins, and lasts for many more

begins, and lasts for many more

years, eventually culminating in

years, eventually culminating in

Tractionist dominance over most

Tractionist dominance over most

of Europa, northern Africa, and

of Europa, northern Africa, and

Nuevo Maya.

509–520 TE: The Zagwan Deluge.

Zagwa, appalled by the rise of Traction

Cities, launches a series of massive

assaults on the southern coasts of

Europa. The defeat of the Zagwan

armies, combined with the crippling

cost of the war, begins the long decline

of the Zagwan Empire, which is

left without the means to suppress

rebellions in vassal-states like Tibesti

or to defend its northern borders

against Tractionism.

509 –
520 TE
520 TE
600 –
900 TE

51

900–926 TE: A mini ice age, best remembered for the dreadful Iron Winter of 919.

900–926 TE: A mini ice age, best remembered for the dreadful Iron Winter of 919.

Grimsby is sunk by pack ice in the North Atlantic, while northern towns and cities

Grimsby is sunk by pack ice in the North Atlantic, while northern towns and cities

are snowed in, or forced to move south in search of prey. Regarded by many as the

are snowed in, or forced to move south in search of prey. Regarded by many as the

beginning of the end for Tractionism: scarcer resources meant that suburbs were no

beginning of the end for Tractionism: scarcer resources meant that suburbs were no

longer being built, while an increase in volcanic activity in the north made large parts

longer being built, while an increase in volcanic activity in the north made large parts

of the Frost Barrens impassable.

1007 TE: London emerges from

1007 TE: London emerges from

seclusion in the west to make a heroic

seclusion in the west to make a heroic

push towards Batmunkh Gompa,

push towards Batmunkh Gompa,

aiming to breach the Shield-Wall and

aiming to breach the Shield-Wall and

aiming to breach the Shield-Wall and

aiming to breach the Shield-Wall and

open new hunting grounds in the east.

open new hunting grounds in the east.

open new hunting grounds in the east.

open new hunting grounds in the east.

997 TE: The Big Tilt hits London, causing

997 TE: The Big Tilt hits London, causing

997 TE: The Big Tilt hits London, causing

many deaths and seriously damaging the

many deaths and seriously damaging the

city. Thaddeus Valentine is appointed Head

city. Thaddeus Valentine is appointed Head

Historian.

997 TE
900 –
926 TE
1007 TE

BATTLE OF THREE DRY SHIPS

At the settlement called Three Dry Ships, soldiers and landships of

the Movement fought a delaying action against a powerful alliance

of northern nomads who were determined to destroy the newly

mobilized London. London’s arrival late in the battle, and the resulting

annihilation of the Suomi and Arkhangelsk forces, heralded the dawn of

the era of Traction Cities. In later days, Dryships Hill was known as “the

high water mark of the nomad empires”, and was a site of some historical

interest until the hill itself was flattened by Manchester.

The Second Traction Boom

The Battle of Three Dry Ships triggered an immense wave of city-building across Europa; once

The Battle of Three Dry Ships triggered an immense wave of city-building across Europa; once

The Battle of Three Dry Ships triggered an immense wave of city-building across Europa; once

The Battle of Three Dry Ships triggered an immense wave of city-building across Europa; once

they saw what a mobile city could do, everybody wanted one. The designs of the Godshawk-

they saw what a mobile city could do, everybody wanted one. The designs of the Godshawk-

they saw what a mobile city could do, everybody wanted one. The designs of the Godshawk-

they saw what a mobile city could do, everybody wanted one. The designs of the Godshawk-

pattern Land Engine, which was highly efficient and relatively easy to build, were leaked from

pattern Land Engine, which was highly efficient and relatively easy to build, were leaked from

pattern Land Engine, which was highly efficient and relatively easy to build, were leaked from

pattern Land Engine, which was highly efficient and relatively easy to build, were leaked from

London’s Guild of Engineers, and soon large areas of Europa were building as fast as possible.

London’s Guild of Engineers, and soon large areas of Europa were building as fast as possible.

London’s Guild of Engineers, and soon large areas of Europa were building as fast as possible.

London’s Guild of Engineers, and soon large areas of Europa were building as fast as possible.

This was still not very fast, as the immense enthusiasm of the time could not entirely compensate

This was still not very fast, as the immense enthusiasm of the time could not entirely compensate

This was still not very fast, as the immense enthusiasm of the time could not entirely compensate

This was still not very fast, as the immense enthusiasm of the time could not entirely compensate

for the limited industrial resources available, and even with the best technomancers and

for the limited industrial resources available, and even with the best technomancers and

for the limited industrial resources available, and even with the best technomancers and

pre-built engines, the creation of a Traction City took years.

pre-built engines, the creation of a Traction City took years.

London, as the sole mobile city at that time, could have snapped up many of its nascent rivals

London, as the sole mobile city at that time, could have snapped up many of its nascent rivals

London, as the sole mobile city at that time, could have snapped up many of its nascent rivals

and remained the first and only Traction City, but after ending Hamsterdam’s bid to be the

and remained the first and only Traction City, but after ending Hamsterdam’s bid to be the

second Traction City in a month-long siege/meal known to historians as the

second Traction City in a month-long siege/meal known to historians as the

Uitsmijter

, it

spent much of the following decade driving around in circles not doing much. Historians have

spent much of the following decade driving around in circles not doing much. Historians have

variously laid the blame for this on the power struggle triggered by the death of the dynamic

variously laid the blame for this on the power struggle triggered by the death of the dynamic

Quirke, on his eventual replacement as Lord Mayor by the utterly inert and incompetent

Quirke, on his eventual replacement as Lord Mayor by the utterly inert and incompetent

Charles Shallow, and on indigestion from processing the immense amounts of material left at

Charles Shallow, and on indigestion from processing the immense amounts of material left at

Hamsterdam.

56

Murnau, approx 500 TE

The Wheeled War

London’s inertia notwithstanding, early Traction Cities generally started trying to crush or eat

London’s inertia notwithstanding, early Traction Cities generally started trying to crush or eat

their rivals almost as soon as their engines could be started. In the turmoil of mass construction

their rivals almost as soon as their engines could be started. In the turmoil of mass construction

and destruction, land pirates preyed on the barge-convoys conveying resources, plunder-hungry

and destruction, land pirates preyed on the barge-convoys conveying resources, plunder-hungry

nomad warbands exploited the chaos, and those city-states which were quite happy where they

nomad warbands exploited the chaos, and those city-states which were quite happy where they

were, thank you very much, were repeatedly attacked by city-builders and nomads seeking their

were, thank you very much, were repeatedly attacked by city-builders and nomads seeking their

resources. The generally sleepy peace of the fifth century TE degenerated into a particularly

resources. The generally sleepy peace of the fifth century TE degenerated into a particularly

brutal, miserable tumult in which almost everyone fought almost everyone else, later known to

historians as the Wheeled War or Forty Years War. Many rich and powerful city-states were

erased, and Europa was left a vast scrapheap of burnt-out towns and wrecked machinery, much

of which was only later tidied up by hungry cities. This state of affairs ended only with the

Zagwan Deluge, and later the formal adoption of Municipal Darwinism.

57

City-cocoons

In modern times static fortifications are associated strictly with Anti-Tractionism, but many of

In modern times static fortifications are associated strictly with Anti-Tractionism, but many of

In modern times static fortifications are associated strictly with Anti-Tractionism, but many of

the cities of the middle centuries TE possessed rings of walls to protect them from the marauders,

the cities of the middle centuries TE possessed rings of walls to protect them from the marauders,

the cities of the middle centuries TE possessed rings of walls to protect them from the marauders,

mutants and techno-barbarians that were irritatingly common in those days, with London’s

mutants and techno-barbarians that were irritatingly common in those days, with London’s

mutants and techno-barbarians that were irritatingly common in those days, with London’s

Orbital Moatway and the Zweite Berlinmauer the most impressive and impractical examples.

Orbital Moatway and the Zweite Berlinmauer the most impressive and impractical examples.

Orbital Moatway and the Zweite Berlinmauer the most impressive and impractical examples.

As the Second and Third Traction Booms swept across Europa, dozens of walled towns

As the Second and Third Traction Booms swept across Europa, dozens of walled towns

As the Second and Third Traction Booms swept across Europa, dozens of walled towns

decided to go mobile within the protection of their fortifications. More mobile nomad groups,

decided to go mobile within the protection of their fortifications. More mobile nomad groups,

decided to go mobile within the protection of their fortifications. More mobile nomad groups,

decided to go mobile within the protection of their fortifications. More mobile nomad groups,

pausing in their travels to bolt their fleets of forts and wagons together into something

pausing in their travels to bolt their fleets of forts and wagons together into something

pausing in their travels to bolt their fleets of forts and wagons together into something

larger, often sought to protect their embryonic town by building enclosures. Known as city-

larger, often sought to protect their embryonic town by building enclosures. Known as city-

cocoons, womb-walls or

cocoons, womb-walls or

stadtnester

, and built variously of metal, stone, timber and ice, all

share a roughly round plan with a very large hole knocked through it where the completed city

share a roughly round plan with a very large hole knocked through it where the completed city

broke out. Like pockmarks on a teenager’s face, these covered Europa during the adolescence

broke out. Like pockmarks on a teenager’s face, these covered Europa during the adolescence

of Traction, and the old scars are still visible from passing airships. The abandoned Murnauer

of Traction, and the old scars are still visible from passing airships. The abandoned Murnauer

Traktiongeburtsmauer, with its five-leafed clover pattern protected by vast palisades of girders,

Traktiongeburtsmauer, with its five-leafed clover pattern protected by vast palisades of girders,

was for many years the best-preserved existing hatchery and a site of great interest to early

was for many years the best-preserved existing hatchery and a site of great interest to early

Tractionist historians, until scavenger suburbs with oxy-acetylene torches nibbled it to bits for

Tractionist historians, until scavenger suburbs with oxy-acetylene torches nibbled it to bits for

scrap in the 870s.

scrap in the 870s.

58

Traction Boom Towns

The Second Traction Boom found many of Europa’s smaller towns eager to mobilize but lacking

The Second Traction Boom found many of Europa’s smaller towns eager to mobilize but lacking

The Second Traction Boom found many of Europa’s smaller towns eager to mobilize but lacking

the craftsmanship and industry to build engines on a large-enough scale. Towns such as

the craftsmanship and industry to build engines on a large-enough scale. Towns such as

the craftsmanship and industry to build engines on a large-enough scale. Towns such as

Ruhr-Überrest and Poznań, which had rebuilt strong iron-working industries in the centuries

Ruhr-Überrest and Poznań, which had rebuilt strong iron-working industries in the centuries

Ruhr-Überrest and Poznań, which had rebuilt strong iron-working industries in the centuries

since the Sixty Minute War, happily forged and supplied the necessary components in exchange

since the Sixty Minute War, happily forged and supplied the necessary components in exchange

since the Sixty Minute War, happily forged and supplied the necessary components in exchange

for large tributes of Old-Tech and slaves. Believing Tractionism to be a silly fad, they profited

for large tributes of Old-Tech and slaves. Believing Tractionism to be a silly fad, they profited

from the Tractionization of other cities at the expense of their own, and in doing so consigned

from the Tractionization of other cities at the expense of their own, and in doing so consigned

themselves to the track-marks of history.

themselves to the track-marks of history.

Perhaps the most important was the legendary foundry town of Miskolc, a city which had

Perhaps the most important was the legendary foundry town of Miskolc, a city which had

Perhaps the most important was the legendary foundry town of Miskolc, a city which had

accumulated extraordinary reserves of iron during the middle Traction Era. This was due to

accumulated extraordinary reserves of iron during the middle Traction Era. This was due to

accumulated extraordinary reserves of iron during the middle Traction Era. This was due to

the Scrap Decrees of Mad King Árpád, who in 331 TE ordered an immense metal-collection

the Scrap Decrees of Mad King Árpád, who in 331 TE ordered an immense metal-collection

the Scrap Decrees of Mad King Árpád, who in 331 TE ordered an immense metal-collection

campaign to support the construction of his iron fortress Vastorony. Throughout the fourth and

campaign to support the construction of his iron fortress Vastorony. Throughout the fourth and

campaign to support the construction of his iron fortress Vastorony. Throughout the fourth and

fifth centuries TE, trains of Miskolc land barges wandered central Europa with cries of “any old

fifth centuries TE, trains of Miskolc land barges wandered central Europa with cries of “any old

fifth centuries TE, trains of Miskolc land barges wandered central Europa with cries of “any old

iron?”, and under subsequent generations of his dynasty the skilled smiths of Miskolc gradually

iron?”, and under subsequent generations of his dynasty the skilled smiths of Miskolc gradually

iron?”, and under subsequent generations of his dynasty the skilled smiths of Miskolc gradually

extended Vastorony ever higher and wider, an enormous rust-red monstrosity of girderwork and

extended Vastorony ever higher and wider, an enormous rust-red monstrosity of girderwork and

extended Vastorony ever higher and wider, an enormous rust-red monstrosity of girderwork and

neatly stacked cubes of crushed metal.

neatly stacked cubes of crushed metal.

All this changed in 485 TE with the enlightened rule of Árpád XIV, who saw the opportunities

All this changed in 485 TE with the enlightened rule of Árpád XIV, who saw the opportunities

All this changed in 485 TE with the enlightened rule of Árpád XIV, who saw the opportunities

All this changed in 485 TE with the enlightened rule of Árpád XIV, who saw the opportunities

All this changed in 485 TE with the enlightened rule of Árpád XIV, who saw the opportunities

All this changed in 485 TE with the enlightened rule of Árpád XIV, who saw the opportunities

All this changed in 485 TE with the enlightened rule of Árpád XIV, who saw the opportunities

of Tractionism and quite liked the idea of a palace which didn’t constantly drip rust on him.

of Tractionism and quite liked the idea of a palace which didn’t constantly drip rust on him.

of Tractionism and quite liked the idea of a palace which didn’t constantly drip rust on him.

of Tractionism and quite liked the idea of a palace which didn’t constantly drip rust on him.

of Tractionism and quite liked the idea of a palace which didn’t constantly drip rust on him.

of Tractionism and quite liked the idea of a palace which didn’t constantly drip rust on him.

Miskolc’s forges recycled the fortress into mass copies of Godshawk-pattern land engines, based

Miskolc’s forges recycled the fortress into mass copies of Godshawk-pattern land engines, based

Miskolc’s forges recycled the fortress into mass copies of Godshawk-pattern land engines, based

Miskolc’s forges recycled the fortress into mass copies of Godshawk-pattern land engines, based

Miskolc’s forges recycled the fortress into mass copies of Godshawk-pattern land engines, based

on plans either stolen or possibly simply bought from a corrupt London Engineer. Their land

on plans either stolen or possibly simply bought from a corrupt London Engineer. Their land

on plans either stolen or possibly simply bought from a corrupt London Engineer. Their land

on plans either stolen or possibly simply bought from a corrupt London Engineer. Their land

on plans either stolen or possibly simply bought from a corrupt London Engineer. Their land

on plans either stolen or possibly simply bought from a corrupt London Engineer. Their land

barges, often sporting early tethered balloons as lookouts, carried engines far and wide across

barges, often sporting early tethered balloons as lookouts, carried engines far and wide across

barges, often sporting early tethered balloons as lookouts, carried engines far and wide across

barges, often sporting early tethered balloons as lookouts, carried engines far and wide across

barges, often sporting early tethered balloons as lookouts, carried engines far and wide across

Europa.

Europa.

However, by 512 TE, Vastorony was entirely gone, leaving the foundries starved; with no more

However, by 512 TE, Vastorony was entirely gone, leaving the foundries starved; with no more

However, by 512 TE, Vastorony was entirely gone, leaving the foundries starved; with no more

However, by 512 TE, Vastorony was entirely gone, leaving the foundries starved; with no more

engine money, the fierce panzer-hussars hired to defend Miskolc left for more profitable wars

engine money, the fierce panzer-hussars hired to defend Miskolc left for more profitable wars

engine money, the fierce panzer-hussars hired to defend Miskolc left for more profitable wars

engine money, the fierce panzer-hussars hired to defend Miskolc left for more profitable wars

engine money, the fierce panzer-hussars hired to defend Miskolc left for more profitable wars

with the Zagwans in the south and east. Without their protection, Miskolc, to its inhabitants’

with the Zagwans in the south and east. Without their protection, Miskolc, to its inhabitants’

with the Zagwans in the south and east. Without their protection, Miskolc, to its inhabitants’

with the Zagwans in the south and east. Without their protection, Miskolc, to its inhabitants’

with the Zagwans in the south and east. Without their protection, Miskolc, to its inhabitants’

with the Zagwans in the south and east. Without their protection, Miskolc, to its inhabitants’

surprise and great annoyance, was eaten over the course of three days by Bokanyiváros and

surprise and great annoyance, was eaten over the course of three days by Bokanyiváros and

surprise and great annoyance, was eaten over the course of three days by Bokanyiváros and

Traktionstadt-Weimar. Matched in size, the two cities munched through the town’s ironworks

Traktionstadt-Weimar. Matched in size, the two cities munched through the town’s ironworks

Traktionstadt-Weimar. Matched in size, the two cities munched through the town’s ironworks

before butting jaws over the final foundry yards, rather like two dogs gnawing on the same bone.

before butting jaws over the final foundry yards, rather like two dogs gnawing on the same bone.

before butting jaws over the final foundry yards, rather like two dogs gnawing on the same bone.

59

60

The Zagwan Deluge

Foremost of the Spring Cultures of Africa was the Zagwan Empire, a prosperous and powerful

Foremost of the Spring Cultures of Africa was the Zagwan Empire, a prosperous and powerful

theocracy built on a fundamentalist, technophobic offshoot of Christianity. To distract from

theocracy built on a fundamentalist, technophobic offshoot of Christianity. To distract from

social problems at home and horrifying rumours of resurgent techno-heresy north of the Middle

social problems at home and horrifying rumours of resurgent techno-heresy north of the Middle

Sea, in 509 TE its Grand Synod, led by Archimandrite Mbakwe, declared holy war against the

Sea, in 509 TE its Grand Synod, led by Archimandrite Mbakwe, declared holy war against the

Sea, in 509 TE its Grand Synod, led by Archimandrite Mbakwe, declared holy war against the

Tractionists.

Tractionists.

Tractionists.

Tractionists.

The static, mobile and mobilizing city-states of Europa, already embroiled in the chaos of the

The static, mobile and mobilizing city-states of Europa, already embroiled in the chaos of the

The static, mobile and mobilizing city-states of Europa, already embroiled in the chaos of the

Forty Years War, were taken completely by surprise. Contrary to the Tractionist image of the

Forty Years War, were taken completely by surprise. Contrary to the Tractionist image of the

Forty Years War, were taken completely by surprise. Contrary to the Tractionist image of the

Zagwans as undisciplined zealots, the Zagwan legions were composed of well-drilled, educated

Zagwans as undisciplined zealots, the Zagwan legions were composed of well-drilled, educated

Zagwans as undisciplined zealots, the Zagwan legions were composed of well-drilled, educated

and highly effective soldiers, although hampered by both the fanatical devotion of their

and highly effective soldiers, although hampered by both the fanatical devotion of their

and highly effective soldiers, although hampered by both the fanatical devotion of their

commissar-priests and their occasional habit of breaking off mid-battle for sermons and

commissar-priests and their occasional habit of breaking off mid-battle for sermons and

commissar-priests and their occasional habit of breaking off mid-battle for sermons and

sustained theological debates.

sustained theological debates.

In an operation known as the Zebra Crossing, Zagwan legions flooded across the Straits of

In an operation known as the Zebra Crossing, Zagwan legions flooded across the Straits of

In an operation known as the Zebra Crossing, Zagwan legions flooded across the Straits of

Gibraltar on fleets of galleys, then rope ferries and finally an immense pontoon bridge.

Gibraltar on fleets of galleys, then rope ferries and finally an immense pontoon bridge.

Gibraltar on fleets of galleys, then rope ferries and finally an immense pontoon bridge.

Storming inland, they swiftly overwhelmed the slow new traction towns of the coast. Reaching

Storming inland, they swiftly overwhelmed the slow new traction towns of the coast. Reaching

the Pyrenees within weeks, they burned the surprised traction town Brum down to its sprockets

the Pyrenees within weeks, they burned the surprised traction town Brum down to its sprockets

the Pyrenees within weeks, they burned the surprised traction town Brum down to its sprockets

on its maiden drive towards Spain (a plaintive cry of “all we wanted was a day in the sun!” are the

on its maiden drive towards Spain (a plaintive cry of “all we wanted was a day in the sun!” are the

on its maiden drive towards Spain (a plaintive cry of “all we wanted was a day in the sun!” are the

final recorded words of its Mayor Joseph Endicott), and very nearly seized London at the Battle

final recorded words of its Mayor Joseph Endicott), and very nearly seized London at the Battle

final recorded words of its Mayor Joseph Endicott), and very nearly seized London at the Battle

of Cahuzac-sur-Adour.

Defeating the Deluge

The Zagwan armies represented a common threat to a fragmented Tractionist Europa, and in

the summer of 511 TE envoys from Bordeaux-Mobile proposed a temporary armistice among

Tractionists. Over the following years Zagwan armies, already suffering from the unpleasant

northern climate, bad roads and ever more ludicrous commandments coming north from the

Great Synod, found themselves outmatched by the fleets of armoured landships and battle-

hardened Traction Cities which poured south in a surprising show of Tractionist solidarity. At

the Battle of Ligne Soixante-Deux in 515 TE, Zagwan armies were annihilated by an alliance

of Anglish, Frankish and German-speaking cities. The following year, the Zagwan General

Sobowale, disgusted by an instruction from the Synod commanding him to immediately

forswear the use of trebuchets and burn his siege engineers as heretechs, surrendered his

Ever-Victorious Legion to Ulp. He was paroled, along with his men, after pledging to never

again live in a town which couldn’t move.

Refusing to accept failure, but ideologically unwilling to use guns or engines themselves, the

Refusing to accept failure, but ideologically unwilling to use guns or engines themselves, the

Synod committed most of the material and human resources of their Empire to what proved

Synod committed most of the material and human resources of their Empire to what proved

an unwinnable war. Their final defeat came at the Battle of the Pillars of Hercules in 520 TE. A

an unwinnable war. Their final defeat came at the Battle of the Pillars of Hercules in 520 TE. A

cluster of seven Traction Cities, including Ulp, Murnau and a resurgent London under the new

cluster of seven Traction Cities, including Ulp, Murnau and a resurgent London under the new

Lord Mayor Chesney Hallam, battled down the Costa del Azahar and distracted the catapults of

Lord Mayor Chesney Hallam, battled down the Costa del Azahar and distracted the catapults of

Lord Mayor Chesney Hallam, battled down the Costa del Azahar and distracted the catapults of

the stronghold at Algeciras long enough for the Gibraltar bridge to be cut by Marseilles. Most of

the stronghold at Algeciras long enough for the Gibraltar bridge to be cut by Marseilles. Most of

the Zagwan soldiers trapped in Spain fled into the hills from the oncoming Traction Cities, and

the Zagwan soldiers trapped in Spain fled into the hills from the oncoming Traction Cities, and

their descendants can be found in the upland statics of southern Iberia to this day.

their descendants can be found in the upland statics of southern Iberia to this day.

Suffering an economic depression after the loss of a generation of young men and wracked by

Suffering an economic depression after the loss of a generation of young men and wracked by

famine after the Synod declared the gearing of windmills to be heresy, Zagwa was a spent force,

famine after the Synod declared the gearing of windmills to be heresy, Zagwa was a spent force,

and this most energetic of the ancient Spring Cultures entered a long, but irreversible, autumn.

and this most energetic of the ancient Spring Cultures entered a long, but irreversible, autumn.

63

The Diet of Ulp

The small mechanized town of Ulp fought bravely during the Deluge, single-handedly holding

The small mechanized town of Ulp fought bravely during the Deluge, single-handedly holding

The small mechanized town of Ulp fought bravely during the Deluge, single-handedly holding

off an entire Zagwan army at La Fontaine des Canons in 515 TE. Its fame was sufficient to make

off an entire Zagwan army at La Fontaine des Canons in 515 TE. Its fame was sufficient to make

off an entire Zagwan army at La Fontaine des Canons in 515 TE. Its fame was sufficient to make

its fellow Traction Cities at least show up out of curiosity when its leaders proposed a meeting

its fellow Traction Cities at least show up out of curiosity when its leaders proposed a meeting

its fellow Traction Cities at least show up out of curiosity when its leaders proposed a meeting

its fellow Traction Cities at least show up out of curiosity when its leaders proposed a meeting

called the Great Diet or

Grosse Stadtfreidenscluster

Grosse Stadtfreidenscluster

Grosse Stadtfreidenscluster

in 520 TE.

Grosse Stadtfreidenscluster in 520 TE.Grosse Stadtfreidenscluster

The conference was intended to ensure that the cities which had fought together during the

The conference was intended to ensure that the cities which had fought together during the

The conference was intended to ensure that the cities which had fought together during the

Deluge did not fall back into their old savage ways now that it was over. “There must be no return

Deluge did not fall back into their old savage ways now that it was over. “There must be no return

Deluge did not fall back into their old savage ways now that it was over. “There must be no return

to the Wheeled War,” urged Ulp’s

bürgermeister

bürgermeister

, Florian Agfa-Storch. Spreading out a map of

, Florian Agfa-Storch. Spreading out a map of

Europa before his rival mayors he declared, “This is not a battlefield! This is a hunting ground!”

Europa before his rival mayors he declared, “This is not a battlefield! This is a hunting ground!”

Europa before his rival mayors he declared, “This is not a battlefield! This is a hunting ground!”

He reminded them of Crumb’s theory of Municipal Darwinism, which had been gaining

He reminded them of Crumb’s theory of Municipal Darwinism, which had been gaining

He reminded them of Crumb’s theory of Municipal Darwinism, which had been gaining

popularity among Tractionists for several decades. There was no need for cities to fight, he

popularity among Tractionists for several decades. There was no need for cities to fight, he

popularity among Tractionists for several decades. There was no need for cities to fight, he

explained, since it was the natural order of things that bigger, faster cities should catch and

explained, since it was the natural order of things that bigger, faster cities should catch and

explained, since it was the natural order of things that bigger, faster cities should catch and

eat their smaller brethren. The prey might run, but, if it lacked the speed or luck to escape, its

eat their smaller brethren. The prey might run, but, if it lacked the speed or luck to escape, its

eat their smaller brethren. The prey might run, but, if it lacked the speed or luck to escape, its

Walmart

Strange

Hailed by many as the greatest painter of

Hailed by many as the greatest painter of

the Traction Era. Walmart Strange was a

the Traction Era. Walmart Strange was a

shepherd boy from the Shatterlands who

became apprentice to the painter Ruan

Solent, accompanying him on his travels

around Europa during the Second Traction

Boom, and helping him to paint his famous

frescoes in London’s Council Chamber,

Trade

and Technology Standing Guard Over the New

London

London

and

and

Barbarism Kneeling in Chains

Barbarism Kneeling in Chains

Before the Spirit of Municipal Darwinism

.

Soon outstripping his master, Strange went

on to have a long and successful career,

painting portraits of many of the leading

figures of the Third Traction Boom as well

as huge historical paintings such as

Quirke

Oversees the Rebuilding of London

,

Th e

Battle of Three Dry Ships

and

The Death of

Cluny Morvish

. An enormously influential

artist, imitations of his paintings were

spread far and wide, bringing a sense of the

excitement and glamour of Municipal

excitement and glamour of Municipal

Darwinism to audiences across the world.

64

citizens should accept their lot, and be glad to let their town be swallowed by a larger, fitter city.

citizens should accept their lot, and be glad to let their town be swallowed by a larger, fitter city.

citizens should accept their lot, and be glad to let their town be swallowed by a larger, fitter city.

citizens should accept their lot, and be glad to let their town be swallowed by a larger, fitter city.

citizens should accept their lot, and be glad to let their town be swallowed by a larger, fitter city.

citizens should accept their lot, and be glad to let their town be swallowed by a larger, fitter city.

In return, the victorious city should not murder or enslave the people it had caught, but should

In return, the victorious city should not murder or enslave the people it had caught, but should

In return, the victorious city should not murder or enslave the people it had caught, but should

welcome them as valuable new additions to its own population. “Gentlemen,” Agfa-Storch

welcome them as valuable new additions to its own population. “Gentlemen,” Agfa-Storch

welcome them as valuable new additions to its own population. “Gentlemen,” Agfa-Storch

concluded, “turn your swords into ploughshares! Then, bolt them on to the front of your cities

concluded, “turn your swords into ploughshares! Then, bolt them on to the front of your cities

concluded, “turn your swords into ploughshares! Then, bolt them on to the front of your cities

and use them to eat each other!”

Ulp was the first Traction City to be devoured under this new system, as following the

Ulp was the first Traction City to be devoured under this new system, as following the

Ulp was the first Traction City to be devoured under this new system, as following the

month-long Diet a hungry London immediately set its sights on Ulp as a celebratory meal.

month-long Diet a hungry London immediately set its sights on Ulp as a celebratory meal.

month-long Diet a hungry London immediately set its sights on Ulp as a celebratory meal.

After a two-week chase, the city’s engines melted, and the people of Ulp gathered on the decks to

After a two-week chase, the city’s engines melted, and the people of Ulp gathered on the decks to

After a two-week chase, the city’s engines melted, and the people of Ulp gathered on the decks to

After a two-week chase, the city’s engines melted, and the people of Ulp gathered on the decks to

welcome the new order, the burghers teary-eyed with pride as London’s jaws closed over them.

welcome the new order, the burghers teary-eyed with pride as London’s jaws closed over them.

welcome the new order, the burghers teary-eyed with pride as London’s jaws closed over them.

65

Illustrator tbc

Municipal Darwinism

Municipal Darwinism is a theory devised by Dr Crumb, London’s first Chief Engineer, but often

Municipal Darwinism is a theory devised by Dr Crumb, London’s first Chief Engineer, but often

attributed to Quirke himself. Municipal Darwinists believe cities evolve through a process

attributed to Quirke himself. Municipal Darwinists believe cities evolve through a process

similar to natural selection: the strongest, fastest and best-designed towns and cities gradually

similar to natural selection: the strongest, fastest and best-designed towns and cities gradually

weed out the weaker and slower ones. Crumb also predicted the ways in which cities would

weed out the weaker and slower ones. Crumb also predicted the ways in which cities would

adapt to exploit different environmental niches: a theory which proved highly influential with

the builders of amphibious raft cities and specialized mining and scavenging towns during the

Third Traction Boom, and above all with the Tractionists of faraway Australia.

66

67

Traktionturnieren

A curious sport which emerged among German-speaking Traction towns during the Second

A curious sport which emerged among German-speaking Traction towns during the Second

A curious sport which emerged among German-speaking Traction towns during the Second

A curious sport which emerged among German-speaking Traction towns during the Second

Traction Boom. Like knights of old or armoured dinosaurs, small, powerful towns would charge

Traction Boom. Like knights of old or armoured dinosaurs, small, powerful towns would charge

Traction Boom. Like knights of old or armoured dinosaurs, small, powerful towns would charge

Traction Boom. Like knights of old or armoured dinosaurs, small, powerful towns would charge

at each other, each aiming to do damage to the other by means of the vast rams or

at each other, each aiming to do damage to the other by means of the vast rams or

at each other, each aiming to do damage to the other by means of the vast rams or

at each other, each aiming to do damage to the other by means of the vast rams or

stadtslanzen

(“town-lances”) which they carried. Naturally this was unspeakably dangerous, and often one

(“town-lances”) which they carried. Naturally this was unspeakably dangerous, and often one

(“town-lances”) which they carried. Naturally this was unspeakably dangerous, and often one

(“town-lances”) which they carried. Naturally this was unspeakably dangerous, and often one

or both towns was completely destroyed, but, as

or both towns was completely destroyed, but, as

or both towns was completely destroyed, but, as

or both towns was completely destroyed, but, as

or both towns was completely destroyed, but, as

or both towns was completely destroyed, but, as

Bürgomeister

Joachim von Storch of Ritterburg

Bürgomeister Joachim von Storch of RitterburgBürgomeister

said, “Without risk, there is no sport; without danger, there is no honour.” In the early days

said, “Without risk, there is no sport; without danger, there is no honour.” In the early days

said, “Without risk, there is no sport; without danger, there is no honour.” In the early days

said, “Without risk, there is no sport; without danger, there is no honour.” In the early days

the towns which lost such duels were sometimes looted and dismantled by the victors, but as

the towns which lost such duels were sometimes looted and dismantled by the victors, but as

the towns which lost such duels were sometimes looted and dismantled by the victors, but as

the code of

Traktionturnieren

Traktionturnieren

(or “Traction tournaments”) developed, the winning town would

usually accept a tribute of fuel from its defeated rival or simply be happy to add another victory

usually accept a tribute of fuel from its defeated rival or simply be happy to add another victory

usually accept a tribute of fuel from its defeated rival or simply be happy to add another victory

to the list painted on its armour. Then both towns would go on their way, wearing their duelling

to the list painted on its armour. Then both towns would go on their way, wearing their duelling

to the list painted on its armour. Then both towns would go on their way, wearing their duelling

scars with pride. As the Traction Era progressed,

scars with pride. As the Traction Era progressed,

scars with pride. As the Traction Era progressed,

Traktionturnieren

fell out of fashion, and came

to be seen as reckless and barbaric, although it remained popular as a theme for paintings, operas

to be seen as reckless and barbaric, although it remained popular as a theme for paintings, operas

to be seen as reckless and barbaric, although it remained popular as a theme for paintings, operas

and romantic novels.

and romantic novels.

and romantic novels.

Early German-speaking traction towns were divided between the

Early German-speaking traction towns were divided between the

Early German-speaking traction towns were divided between the

Jaegerstadts

, who chased after

their prey, and the

their prey, and the

Turnierenstadts

, who preferred jousting. Though both terms have fallen out of

fashion as most German-speaking Traction Cities now identify merely as

fashion as most German-speaking Traction Cities now identify merely as

Traktionstadts

, some

have kept the old title as part of their name, such as Jaegerstadt Ulm, Jagdstadt Magdeburg, and

have kept the old title as part of their name, such as Jaegerstadt Ulm, Jagdstadt Magdeburg, and

Ritterstadt Merkava.

Ritterstadt Merkava.

68

Experimental Cities

Although a majority of land-based Traction Cities used either wheels, tracks or a combination, many

Although a majority of land-based Traction Cities used either wheels, tracks or a combination, many

Although a majority of land-based Traction Cities used either wheels, tracks or a combination, many

curious experimental alternatives were devised by wild-eyed inventors during the Third Traction

curious experimental alternatives were devised by wild-eyed inventors during the Third Traction

curious experimental alternatives were devised by wild-eyed inventors during the Third Traction

Boom. Most of them failed to move, or at least failed to move fast enough to escape the jaws of hungry

Boom. Most of them failed to move, or at least failed to move fast enough to escape the jaws of hungry

Boom. Most of them failed to move, or at least failed to move fast enough to escape the jaws of hungry

predators.

predators.

Borsanski-Novi

Few experimental Traction Cities were shorter

Few experimental Traction Cities were shorter

Few experimental Traction Cities were shorter

lived than Borsanski-Novi, a tiny Slavic city

lived than Borsanski-Novi, a tiny Slavic city

lived than Borsanski-Novi, a tiny Slavic city

which thought it would be a good idea to use

which thought it would be a good idea to use

which thought it would be a good idea to use

a set of massive springs in place of wheels.

a set of massive springs in place of wheels.

a set of massive springs in place of wheels.

On its maiden voyage in 578 TE, this so-

On its maiden voyage in 578 TE, this so-

On its maiden voyage in 578 TE, this so-

called “pogo-city” managed to travel barely

called “pogo-city” managed to travel barely

called “pogo-city” managed to travel barely

two hundred yards before it crashed to the

two hundred yards before it crashed to the

two hundred yards before it crashed to the

ground and was eaten by Xanne-Sandansky.

ground and was eaten by Xanne-Sandansky.

ground and was eaten by Xanne-Sandansky.

Havercroft

In 612 TE the Mathematical Order of

In 612 TE the Mathematical Order of

Brightstowe, a static-technocratic society

Brightstowe, a static-technocratic society

inhabiting a gorge northeast of the Western

inhabiting a gorge northeast of the Western

Archipelago, designed and built a highly

Archipelago, designed and built a highly

advanced amphibious city which employed

advanced amphibious city which employed

skirts of Nuevo-Mayan rubber and early aëro-

skirts of Nuevo-Mayan rubber and early aëro-

engines to carry itself on a cushion of

engines to carry itself on a cushion of

air. The principle, to the surprise of most

air. The principle, to the surprise of most

observers, proved sound, and after some

observers, proved sound, and after some

tentative voyages around mud flats, Havercroft spent a happy three months zooming swiftly

tentative voyages around mud flats, Havercroft spent a happy three months zooming swiftly

tentative voyages around mud flats, Havercroft spent a happy three months zooming swiftly

and efficiently around the Seventh Estuary eating fishing smacks before, betrayed by its

and efficiently around the Seventh Estuary eating fishing smacks before, betrayed by its

and efficiently around the Seventh Estuary eating fishing smacks before, betrayed by its

unreliable engines, it deflated and sank without trace off the Cymric Archipelago.

unreliable engines, it deflated and sank without trace off the Cymric Archipelago.

unreliable engines, it deflated and sank without trace off the Cymric Archipelago.

69

Suburbs

This term is sometimes used to refer to any small mobile town, but the true suburbs are those

This term is sometimes used to refer to any small mobile town, but the true suburbs are those

This term is sometimes used to refer to any small mobile town, but the true suburbs are those

built by the great Traction Cities during the Golden Age. Successful cities found that they had

built by the great Traction Cities during the Golden Age. Successful cities found that they had

built by the great Traction Cities during the Golden Age. Successful cities found that they had

no room for all the people and materials of the towns they were eating. As well as adding new

no room for all the people and materials of the towns they were eating. As well as adding new

no room for all the people and materials of the towns they were eating. As well as adding new

tiers, many chose to construct small mobile suburbs. Some of these suburbs were attached to the

tiers, many chose to construct small mobile suburbs. Some of these suburbs were attached to the

tiers, many chose to construct small mobile suburbs. Some of these suburbs were attached to the

main structure of a city by bridges and gantries (“outrigger suburbs”) but some were free-roving

main structure of a city by bridges and gantries (“outrigger suburbs”) but some were free-roving

main structure of a city by bridges and gantries (“outrigger suburbs”) but some were free-roving

townlets which either followed their parent city or struck out on their own. A few suburbs, like

townlets which either followed their parent city or struck out on their own. A few suburbs, like

townlets which either followed their parent city or struck out on their own. A few suburbs, like

Traktiongrad (originally a suburb of Minsk), became much larger and more powerful than the

Traktiongrad (originally a suburb of Minsk), became much larger and more powerful than the

Traktiongrad (originally a suburb of Minsk), became much larger and more powerful than the

cities which had birthed them. During the Iron Winter of 919 TE, the city of Malbork was torn

cities which had birthed them. During the Iron Winter of 919 TE, the city of Malbork was torn

cities which had birthed them. During the Iron Winter of 919 TE, the city of Malbork was torn

apart and eaten by two of its own suburbs.

apart and eaten by two of its own suburbs.

Between 675–840 TE London built twenty-two suburbs in the huge hangars on its base tier

Between 675–840 TE London built twenty-two suburbs in the huge hangars on its base tier

Between 675–840 TE London built twenty-two suburbs in the huge hangars on its base tier

known as the Wombs. Each was intended to mirror London’s own culture, and help to spread

known as the Wombs. Each was intended to mirror London’s own culture, and help to spread

known as the Wombs. Each was intended to mirror London’s own culture, and help to spread

Panjandrum

A bizarre but singularly successful experimental

A bizarre but singularly successful experimental

A bizarre but singularly successful experimental

design, the enormous cartwheel Panjandrum

design, the enormous cartwheel Panjandrum

is known as both one of the slowest and one

is known as both one of the slowest and one

of the fastest Traction Cities. Generally, it rolls

of the fastest Traction Cities. Generally, it rolls

from place to place on the “hamster-wheel”

from place to place on the “hamster-wheel”

principle, with most of the population walking

principle, with most of the population walking

inside its wheel to move it forward. However,

inside its wheel to move it forward. However,

when giving or escaping chase, the series of

rockets around the outside of its wheel can be

lit, giving it an enormous turn of speed, if little

lit, giving it an enormous turn of speed, if little

steering-way. Panjandrum is credited with accidentally

steering-way. Panjandrum is credited with accidentally

introducing modern Tractionism to the Indian subcontinent

introducing modern Tractionism to the Indian subcontinent

when its rockets bounced it straight over the Safēd Kōh mountains to the outskirts of

when its rockets bounced it straight over the Safēd Kōh mountains to the outskirts of

when its rockets bounced it straight over the Safēd Kōh mountains to the outskirts of

Peshawar. It is hard to tell whether the Peshawans or the surviving Panjandrumites were

Peshawar. It is hard to tell whether the Peshawans or the surviving Panjandrumites were

Peshawar. It is hard to tell whether the Peshawans or the surviving Panjandrumites were

more surprised.

70

Crawley

A suburb of London, launched during the Third Traction Boom. It was a successful small

predator in the northern Hunting Ground for many years, but is now remembered mainly as the

source of one of the Hunting Ground’s most grisly legends. In 867 TE it was spotted standing

source of one of the Hunting Ground’s most grisly legends. In 867 TE it was spotted standing

motionless on the edge of the Frost Barrens by Motoropolis. When dragged into the city’s gut it

motionless on the edge of the Frost Barrens by Motoropolis. When dragged into the city’s gut it

was thought to be deserted, until boarding parties discovered the bodies of the entire population

was thought to be deserted, until boarding parties discovered the bodies of the entire population

in a warehouse in the bottom deck, all the dead missing their right hands.

Quirkism and other Londonish virtues around the world. However, life aboard these mini-

Quirkism and other Londonish virtues around the world. However, life aboard these mini-

Quirkism and other Londonish virtues around the world. However, life aboard these mini-

Quirkism and other Londonish virtues around the world. However, life aboard these mini-

Londons often seemed dull to people used to living on a full-sized city; young people who grew

Londons often seemed dull to people used to living on a full-sized city; young people who grew

Londons often seemed dull to people used to living on a full-sized city; young people who grew

Londons often seemed dull to people used to living on a full-sized city; young people who grew

up aboard them usually moved to London as soon as they had an opportunity, and the suburbs

up aboard them usually moved to London as soon as they had an opportunity, and the suburbs

up aboard them usually moved to London as soon as they had an opportunity, and the suburbs

gradually became sleepy semi-statics, like Cricklewood and Surbiton, or turned to piracy.

gradually became sleepy semi-statics, like Cricklewood and Surbiton, or turned to piracy.

gradually became sleepy semi-statics, like Cricklewood and Surbiton, or turned to piracy.

71

THE AGE OF

TRACTION CITIES

Guilds

There are many different forms of government among the cities of the Traction Era, but one of

the most popular is the Guild system practised by London and many other Anglish-speaking

cities. Seats on the city council are allocated among the various Guilds representing the city’s

most important trades and professions. In most cities this means that the engineers who design

and maintain the city’s engines and other systems have the largest say in council, though the

and maintain the city’s engines and other systems have the largest say in council, though the

navigators who steer it are usually well-represented too.

navigators who steer it are usually well-represented too.

In London during the Golden Age of Traction, the Guild of Historians was almost as

In London during the Golden Age of Traction, the Guild of Historians was almost as

powerful as the Engineers, indicating the importance of Old-Tech to the city, but also its

powerful as the Engineers, indicating the importance of Old-Tech to the city, but also its

respect for knowledge and learning. At the urging of the Historians, London would sometimes

respect for knowledge and learning. At the urging of the Historians, London would sometimes

travel for thousands of miles to catch a town with a renowned museum or library. In later

travel for thousands of miles to catch a town with a renowned museum or library. In later

years, following the Big Tilt, the Engineers re-established their dominance, and by 1007 TE

years, following the Big Tilt, the Engineers re-established their dominance, and by 1007 TE

the seats in the council chamber on Top Tier have been distributed as follows: 50% Engineers,

the seats in the council chamber on Top Tier have been distributed as follows: 50% Engineers,

15% Historians, 15% Navigators, 10% Merchants, 10% “Lesser Guilds” (including the Guilds of

15% Historians, 15% Navigators, 10% Merchants, 10% “Lesser Guilds” (including the Guilds of

Physicians, Lawyers, Manufacturers, and Gut Operatives).

London Guild of Historians

Many cities boast a Guild of Historians, but London’s is the oldest and the finest, founded in

Many cities boast a Guild of Historians, but London’s is the oldest and the finest, founded in

Many cities boast a Guild of Historians, but London’s is the oldest and the finest, founded in

525 TE by Historians and tech-hunters wishing to emulate the respect and high-standing of the

525 TE by Historians and tech-hunters wishing to emulate the respect and high-standing of the

525 TE by Historians and tech-hunters wishing to emulate the respect and high-standing of the

525 TE by Historians and tech-hunters wishing to emulate the respect and high-standing of the

Guild of Engineers. Famous Historians include Chesney Hallam (later Lord Mayor), Pisistratus

Guild of Engineers. Famous Historians include Chesney Hallam (later Lord Mayor), Pisistratus

Guild of Engineers. Famous Historians include Chesney Hallam (later Lord Mayor), Pisistratus

Guild of Engineers. Famous Historians include Chesney Hallam (later Lord Mayor), Pisistratus

Potts (later Lord Mayor), Waverley Egg, Charnley Webber, Milton Lambwrack, Hartley

Potts (later Lord Mayor), Waverley Egg, Charnley Webber, Milton Lambwrack, Hartley

Potts (later Lord Mayor), Waverley Egg, Charnley Webber, Milton Lambwrack, Hartley

Potts (later Lord Mayor), Waverley Egg, Charnley Webber, Milton Lambwrack, Hartley

Pewtertide, Chudleigh Pomeroy and Thaddeus Valentine.

Pewtertide, Chudleigh Pomeroy and Thaddeus Valentine.

76

Thaddeus

Valentine

Raised as an Out-Country scavenger, Val-

Raised as an Out-Country scavenger, Val-

Raised as an Out-Country scavenger, Val-

entine changed his name from Tadeusz Wal-

entine changed his name from Tadeusz Wal-

entine changed his name from Tadeusz Wal-

lenstein when he began working for London’s

lenstein when he began working for London’s

lenstein when he began working for London’s

Guild of Historians in around 975 TE. An

Guild of Historians in around 975 TE. An

up-and-coming Historian named Chudleigh

up-and-coming Historian named Chudleigh

Pomeroy supported his application to join the

Pomeroy supported his application to join the

Guild, and despite his lowly and outlandish

Guild, and despite his lowly and outlandish

origins he rose rapidly through its ranks.

origins he rose rapidly through its ranks.

His early life left him with a much better

His early life left him with a much better

understanding of archaeology than most of

understanding of archaeology than most of

his London-born colleagues, and he began

his London-born colleagues, and he began

making long and dangerous expeditions in

making long and dangerous expeditions in

search of Old-Tech relics. His airship, the

search of Old-Tech relics. His airship, the

13th Floor Elevator

, became famous, as did

, became famous, as did

his crew: the reformed air-pirates Jasper

his crew: the reformed air-pirates Jasper

Pewsey and Silas Gench, and the beautiful

Pewsey and Silas Gench, and the beautiful

aviatrix Pandora Rae, with whom Valentine

aviatrix Pandora Rae, with whom Valentine

was rumoured to be in love. His air pursuits

was rumoured to be in love. His air pursuits

brought him to the attention of Magnus

brought him to the attention of Magnus

Crome, London’s Chief Engineer, and it was

Crome, London’s Chief Engineer, and it was

on Crome’s orders, rather than those of his

on Crome’s orders, rather than those of his

own Guild, that Valentine made his famous

own Guild, that Valentine made his famous

expeditions to America. He later wrote

expeditions to America. He later wrote

about these adventures in his book

about these adventures in his book

America

Deserta: Across the Dead Continent with Gun,

Deserta: Across the Dead Continent with Gun,

Camera and Airship

.

In 998 TE, following his heroic actions in the

In 998 TE, following his heroic actions in the

In 998 TE, following his heroic actions in the

In 998 TE, following his heroic actions in the

aftermath of the Big Tilt, and the election of

aftermath of the Big Tilt, and the election of

aftermath of the Big Tilt, and the election of

aftermath of the Big Tilt, and the election of

Magnus Crome as Lord Mayor, he was made

Magnus Crome as Lord Mayor, he was made

Head Historian.

77

78

THE
13
th
floor elevator

One of the finest examples of London engineering in the

sky, the

13th Floor Elevator

was custom-built for Thaddeus

13th Floor Elevator was custom-built for Thaddeus13th Floor Elevator

Valentine as a replacement for the airship

London Pride

,

which was lost on assignment in Nuevo-Maya. Its roomy

holds and substantial lifting capacity were designed with

long archaeological expeditions in mind, and its armoured

envelope and seven-inch rocket projectors protect against

most of the hazards faced by the practical Historian.

The Big Tilt

In the latter half of the ninth century TE, London began to suffer from structural problems

In the latter half of the ninth century TE, London began to suffer from structural problems

caused by over-expansion in the preceding centuries and a worsening shortage of materials. Its

caused by over-expansion in the preceding centuries and a worsening shortage of materials. Its

journeys across the Shatterlands in 986 and 994 weakened it further, and led to a series of failures

journeys across the Shatterlands in 986 and 994 weakened it further, and led to a series of failures

which culminated in the “Big Tilt” of 997, when a large portion of Tier Three collapsed on to

which culminated in the “Big Tilt” of 997, when a large portion of Tier Three collapsed on to

the tier below. More than five hundred people were killed in the disaster, and the ensuing fires

the tier below. More than five hundred people were killed in the disaster, and the ensuing fires

burned out of control for most of the night of April 14th. The Historian Thaddeus Valentine was

burned out of control for most of the night of April 14th. The Historian Thaddeus Valentine was

the hero of the hour, selflessly risking his own life to rescue those trapped in the wreckage, and

the hero of the hour, selflessly risking his own life to rescue those trapped in the wreckage, and

helping to encourage and coordinate the firefighters and salvage teams. In the aftermath of the

helping to encourage and coordinate the firefighters and salvage teams. In the aftermath of the

tragedy it became clear that Purkiss & Watson, the company hired to maintain the tier support

tragedy it became clear that Purkiss & Watson, the company hired to maintain the tier support

pillars in that part of the city, had been saving money by filling rust-holes with a mixture of

pillars in that part of the city, had been saving money by filling rust-holes with a mixture of

grease and boot-polish rather than repairing them. The ensuing scandal led to the downfall of

grease and boot-polish rather than repairing them. The ensuing scandal led to the downfall of

Lord Mayor Waverley Egg and the election of Magnus Crome, whose election campaign

Lord Mayor Waverley Egg and the election of Magnus Crome, whose election campaign

portrayed him as “The man to get London moving again!”. Nevertheless, the Tilt and the costly

portrayed him as “The man to get London moving again!”. Nevertheless, the Tilt and the costly

Tom

Natsworthy

One of the many lives affected by the Big Tilt

One of the many lives affected by the Big Tilt

One of the many lives affected by the Big Tilt

was that of six-year-old Tom Natsworthy,

was that of six-year-old Tom Natsworthy,

was that of six-year-old Tom Natsworthy,

son of David and Rebecca Natsworthy of the

son of David and Rebecca Natsworthy of the

son of David and Rebecca Natsworthy of the

Historians’ Guild, who were killed in the

Historians’ Guild, who were killed in the

Historians’ Guild, who were killed in the

disaster.

Taken in by the Guild, with his parents’ savings

Taken in by the Guild, with his parents’ savings

Taken in by the Guild, with his parents’ savings

funding a Third Class Apprenticeship, he

funding a Third Class Apprenticeship, he

funding a Third Class Apprenticeship, he

can be found most days dusting artefacts in

can be found most days dusting artefacts in

can be found most days dusting artefacts in

can be found most days dusting artefacts in

the Museum of London, or reading in his

the Museum of London, or reading in his

the Museum of London, or reading in his

time off.

repairs which followed it were a severe blow to the city, which spent most of the next decade

repairs which followed it were a severe blow to the city, which spent most of the next decade

away from the central Hunting Ground, lurking in the wet hills of its ancestral home, the former

away from the central Hunting Ground, lurking in the wet hills of its ancestral home, the former

island of Britain.

island of Britain.

81

Katherine
Valentine
& Dog

Daughter of Thaddeus Valentine and Nuria

Daughter of Thaddeus Valentine and Nuria

Daughter of Thaddeus Valentine and Nuria

Zinadan, the high priestess of Clio on the

Zinadan, the high priestess of Clio on the

Zinadan, the high priestess of Clio on the

raft city of Puerto Angeles. Katherine lived

raft city of Puerto Angeles. Katherine lived

raft city of Puerto Angeles. Katherine lived

on the City of Angels until her mother

on the City of Angels until her mother

on the City of Angels until her mother

died when she was five. Living the life of a

died when she was five. Living the life of a

died when she was five. Living the life of a

fashionable young High London lady, she

fashionable young High London lady, she

fashionable young High London lady, she

is seldom seen without Dog, a wolf-puppy

is seldom seen without Dog, a wolf-puppy

is seldom seen without Dog, a wolf-puppy

her father brought back for her from an

her father brought back for her from an

her father brought back for her from an

expedition to the Ice Wastes, now very much

expedition to the Ice Wastes, now very much

expedition to the Ice Wastes, now very much

a wolf.

Goggle-screens

Large public screens which the authorities

aboard the better-organized Traction Cities

used to make announcements, broadcast

news bulletins, and remind everyone how

news bulletins, and remind everyone how

lovely life was. Repeated attempts to pro-

duce small ones for the private viewer never

quite caught on; “If I want moving pictures, I

quite caught on; “If I want moving pictures, I

can look out the window!” was a popular re-

can look out the window!” was a popular re-

sponse to the launch of the London Electrical

Corporation’s “Parlour Goggle-box”.

82

Bug

Small three- or four-wheeled vehicles, used to move around within the larger Traction Cities.

Small three- or four-wheeled vehicles, used to move around within the larger Traction Cities.

Small three- or four-wheeled vehicles, used to move around within the larger Traction Cities.

Bugs were powered originally by frantic pedalling, but later electric or ethanol engines became

Bugs were powered originally by frantic pedalling, but later electric or ethanol engines became

Bugs were powered originally by frantic pedalling, but later electric or ethanol engines became

the norm. Rejected in the early days of Traction as affected or simply silly (“Why do you need a

the norm. Rejected in the early days of Traction as affected or simply silly (“Why do you need a

the norm. Rejected in the early days of Traction as affected or simply silly (“Why do you need a

vehicle? The whole city moves!”), bugs became far more popular as the size of cities increased,

vehicle? The whole city moves!”), bugs became far more popular as the size of cities increased,

vehicle? The whole city moves!”), bugs became far more popular as the size of cities increased,

especially in northern towns with harsher climates. Numbers were often limited by law to avoid

especially in northern towns with harsher climates. Numbers were often limited by law to avoid

congestion of the city’s passages.

Algae

At the height of Tractionism there were whole towns devoted to growing, harvesting and selling

At the height of Tractionism there were whole towns devoted to growing, harvesting and selling

fresh produce. As prey dwindled, however, these farming towns were eaten one by one, and

fresh produce. As prey dwindled, however, these farming towns were eaten one by one, and

greenstuff became scarce. By the end of the Traction Era, most towns and cities devoted part

greenstuff became scarce. By the end of the Traction Era, most towns and cities devoted part

greenstuff became scarce. By the end of the Traction Era, most towns and cities devoted part

of their upper tiers to huge greenhouses and polytunnels, where they grew crops of cress and

of their upper tiers to huge greenhouses and polytunnels, where they grew crops of cress and

of their upper tiers to huge greenhouses and polytunnels, where they grew crops of cress and

other edible plants, though some resorted to sending out scavenging parties to gather edible

other edible plants, though some resorted to sending out scavenging parties to gather edible

other edible plants, though some resorted to sending out scavenging parties to gather edible

weeds from the Out-Country. Mushrooms were grown in dark spaces in the cities’ depths, and

weeds from the Out-Country. Mushrooms were grown in dark spaces in the cities’ depths, and

many experiments were made to farm algae, which experts like those in London’s Guild of

many experiments were made to farm algae, which experts like those in London’s Guild of

Engineers recognized as a valuable source of nutrients. Many cities had large vats and farms

Engineers recognized as a valuable source of nutrients. Many cities had large vats and farms

devoted to the growth of this green sludge. Its taste was, by most accounts, quite horrid.

devoted to the growth of this green sludge. Its taste was, by most accounts, quite horrid.

83

Art of the Traction Era

The long shadow of Walmart Strange dominates the paintings of the Traction Era, and most cities

The long shadow of Walmart Strange dominates the paintings of the Traction Era, and most cities

The long shadow of Walmart Strange dominates the paintings of the Traction Era, and most cities

have a gallery filled with rather clichéd academic history paintings celebrating the birth of each

have a gallery filled with rather clichéd academic history paintings celebrating the birth of each

have a gallery filled with rather clichéd academic history paintings celebrating the birth of each

city, or its biggest meal. In reaction to this, the Pre-Strangeites attempted to reconnect with the

city, or its biggest meal. In reaction to this, the Pre-Strangeites attempted to reconnect with the

city, or its biggest meal. In reaction to this, the Pre-Strangeites attempted to reconnect with the

more primitive schools which flourished before the Traction Boom, while the Traction Action

more primitive schools which flourished before the Traction Boom, while the Traction Action

more primitive schools which flourished before the Traction Boom, while the Traction Action

Painters were Futurist types who sought to capture the speed and motion of the cities’ moving

Painters were Futurist types who sought to capture the speed and motion of the cities’ moving

Painters were Futurist types who sought to capture the speed and motion of the cities’ moving

parts – some threw blank canvasses off the front of their city, then dug the remains out of the

parts – some threw blank canvasses off the front of their city, then dug the remains out of the

parts – some threw blank canvasses off the front of their city, then dug the remains out of the

track-marks and exhibited them (leading to a riot at the Paris Salon in 879). One particular

track-marks and exhibited them (leading to a riot at the Paris Salon in 879). One particular

track-marks and exhibited them (leading to a riot at the Paris Salon in 879). One particular

offshoot of this was the Stadtkind tendency, a short-lived attempt by a number of students to “get

offshoot of this was the Stadtkind tendency, a short-lived attempt by a number of students to “get

offshoot of this was the Stadtkind tendency, a short-lived attempt by a number of students to “get

back to basics” by having themselves temporarily marooned on the earth of the Great Hunting

back to basics” by having themselves temporarily marooned on the earth of the Great Hunting

Ground. Many starved or were accidentally run over, but the hollow-eyed young men and women

Ground. Many starved or were accidentally run over, but the hollow-eyed young men and women

who survived and eventually returned to their cities produced many iconic blurs of green and

who survived and eventually returned to their cities produced many iconic blurs of green and

brown, the best known among them being Klaus Wendigdorfer’s seminal

Bremsspur

Bremsspur

. Later

Tractionist art movements included the Avant-Avant-Avant School and the Banksonians, who

Tractionist art movements included the Avant-Avant-Avant School and the Banksonians, who

stencilled caricatures in awkward places on the mudguards and underdecks of cities.

stencilled caricatures in awkward places on the mudguards and underdecks of cities.

Sculpture has also flourished among the Traction Cities. The Ice-Sculpture Winterval pioneered

Sculpture has also flourished among the Traction Cities. The Ice-Sculpture Winterval pioneered

Sculpture has also flourished among the Traction Cities. The Ice-Sculpture Winterval pioneered

by Anchorage produced a tradition of enormously elaborate ice carvings; their melting as spring

by Anchorage produced a tradition of enormously elaborate ice carvings; their melting as spring

by Anchorage produced a tradition of enormously elaborate ice carvings; their melting as spring

by Anchorage produced a tradition of enormously elaborate ice carvings; their melting as spring

by Anchorage produced a tradition of enormously elaborate ice carvings; their melting as spring

by Anchorage produced a tradition of enormously elaborate ice carvings; their melting as spring

arrives is part of their ephemeral charm – collectors gather the meltwater with special sponges

arrives is part of their ephemeral charm – collectors gather the meltwater with special sponges

arrives is part of their ephemeral charm – collectors gather the meltwater with special sponges

arrives is part of their ephemeral charm – collectors gather the meltwater with special sponges

and keep it in bottles labelled with the name of the sculpture it came from. More enduring

and keep it in bottles labelled with the name of the sculpture it came from. More enduring

and keep it in bottles labelled with the name of the sculpture it came from. More enduring

and keep it in bottles labelled with the name of the sculpture it came from. More enduring

examples of the craft include Chauncy Dilnott’s huge statue of Quirke on the Top Tier of London,

examples of the craft include Chauncy Dilnott’s huge statue of Quirke on the Top Tier of London,

examples of the craft include Chauncy Dilnott’s huge statue of Quirke on the Top Tier of London,

examples of the craft include Chauncy Dilnott’s huge statue of Quirke on the Top Tier of London,

Nils Pils’s massive bronze of Blind Queen Cluny on her war mammoth, and the iron figurehead

Nils Pils’s massive bronze of Blind Queen Cluny on her war mammoth, and the iron figurehead

Nils Pils’s massive bronze of Blind Queen Cluny on her war mammoth, and the iron figurehead

Nils Pils’s massive bronze of Blind Queen Cluny on her war mammoth, and the iron figurehead

of Arkangel.

Music is less popular on Traction Cities than in the static world, as only the most expensively

Music is less popular on Traction Cities than in the static world, as only the most expensively

Music is less popular on Traction Cities than in the static world, as only the most expensively

soundproofed opera houses or dangerously powerful speakers can fully escape the thunder of

soundproofed opera houses or dangerously powerful speakers can fully escape the thunder of

soundproofed opera houses or dangerously powerful speakers can fully escape the thunder of

city-engines. Among the more contemplative or semi-static cities, “archeopop” is made by DJ

city-engines. Among the more contemplative or semi-static cities, “archeopop” is made by DJ

city-engines. Among the more contemplative or semi-static cities, “archeopop” is made by DJ

archaeologists who scour Ancient sites for fragments of old tapes and vinyl records, which they

archaeologists who scour Ancient sites for fragments of old tapes and vinyl records, which they

archaeologists who scour Ancient sites for fragments of old tapes and vinyl records, which they

painstakingly glue back together: since the fragments generally come from completely different

painstakingly glue back together: since the fragments generally come from completely different

painstakingly glue back together: since the fragments generally come from completely different

recordings, this can produce exciting, if discordant, new music.

recordings, this can produce exciting, if discordant, new music.

recordings, this can produce exciting, if discordant, new music.

85

86

86

London Guild of Engineers

London’s Guild of Engineers pride themselves on their ability to suppress and ignore emotion

London’s Guild of Engineers pride themselves on their ability to suppress and ignore emotion

London’s Guild of Engineers pride themselves on their ability to suppress and ignore emotion

London’s Guild of Engineers pride themselves on their ability to suppress and ignore emotion

and to think rationally at all times. Although fiercely atheistic, their strange appearance – shaven

and to think rationally at all times. Although fiercely atheistic, their strange appearance – shaven

and to think rationally at all times. Although fiercely atheistic, their strange appearance – shaven

and to think rationally at all times. Although fiercely atheistic, their strange appearance – shaven

and to think rationally at all times. Although fiercely atheistic, their strange appearance – shaven

heads and white canvas coats (replaced with rubberized canvas in the ninth century) – give them

heads and white canvas coats (replaced with rubberized canvas in the ninth century) – give them

heads and white canvas coats (replaced with rubberized canvas in the ninth century) – give them

the appearance of a particularly shiny religious cult. Engineers live in communal barracks, eat in

the appearance of a particularly shiny religious cult. Engineers live in communal barracks, eat in

the appearance of a particularly shiny religious cult. Engineers live in communal barracks, eat in

the appearance of a particularly shiny religious cult. Engineers live in communal barracks, eat in

the appearance of a particularly shiny religious cult. Engineers live in communal barracks, eat in

communal canteens, and children born to them are removed from their mothers soon after birth

communal canteens, and children born to them are removed from their mothers soon after birth

communal canteens, and children born to them are removed from their mothers soon after birth

communal canteens, and children born to them are removed from their mothers soon after birth

and brought up in the Guild’s nurseries. They were the first of London’s Guilds to begin wearing

and brought up in the Guild’s nurseries. They were the first of London’s Guilds to begin wearing

and brought up in the Guild’s nurseries. They were the first of London’s Guilds to begin wearing

a tattoo or “Guild-mark” on their foreheads – in their case, a stylized red cog-wheel.

a tattoo or “Guild-mark” on their foreheads – in their case, a stylized red cog-wheel.

Following the unjust and incompetent rule of Chief Engineer (later Lord Mayor) Charles

Following the unjust and incompetent rule of Chief Engineer (later Lord Mayor) Charles

Following the unjust and incompetent rule of Chief Engineer (later Lord Mayor) Charles

Shallow, the Guild’s influence dwindled somewhat, and for most of the Golden Age it was

Shallow, the Guild’s influence dwindled somewhat, and for most of the Golden Age it was

Shallow, the Guild’s influence dwindled somewhat, and for most of the Golden Age it was

content to tend its engines and conduct its experiments on the samples of old technology

content to tend its engines and conduct its experiments on the samples of old technology

content to tend its engines and conduct its experiments on the samples of old technology

which the Guild of Historians brought to London. Many Ancient inventions, including radio,

which the Guild of Historians brought to London. Many Ancient inventions, including radio,

which the Guild of Historians brought to London. Many Ancient inventions, including radio,

athode-ray screens and even primitive computer brains, were reintroduced to the

athode-ray screens and even primitive computer brains, were reintroduced to the

athode-ray screens and even primitive computer brains, were reintroduced to the

world thanks to the efforts of

the Guild’s careful researchers.

the Guild’s careful researchers.

Other projects, involving Mag-

Lev systems, Stalkers, and

experimental foodstuffs, proved

more controversial. By the ninth

century the Guild was once

again playing a major part

in London politics. It built a

modernistic glass tower called

the Engineerium on Top Tier, and

operated scores of different de-

partments, including a security

section which was effectively a

private army.

Magnus Crome

Lord Mayor of London during the city’s

Lord Mayor of London during the city’s

famous charge east in 1007 TE. Crome

famous charge east in 1007 TE. Crome

claimed descent from Dr Crumb, who

claimed descent from Dr Crumb, who

was Chief Engineer in the time of Nikolas

was Chief Engineer in the time of Nikolas

Quirke. He was himself Chief Engineer for

Quirke. He was himself Chief Engineer for

many years, during which he strengthened

many years, during which he strengthened

the power of his Guild and increased the

the power of his Guild and increased the

number of seats it controlled in the city

number of seats it controlled in the city

council. In 997 TE, following the Big Tilt,

council. In 997 TE, following the Big Tilt,

he used this power to have himself declared

he used this power to have himself declared

Lord Mayor, leading some people to

Lord Mayor, leading some people to

Lord Mayor, leading some people to

speculate that Crome had caused the Big Tilt

speculate that Crome had caused the Big Tilt

speculate that Crome had caused the Big Tilt

speculate that Crome had caused the Big Tilt

himself. Typically for an Engineer, he had

himself. Typically for an Engineer, he had

himself. Typically for an Engineer, he had

no family of his own, and was said to care

no family of his own, and was said to care

no family of his own, and was said to care

about nothing but the city itself. He was a

about nothing but the city itself. He was a

about nothing but the city itself. He was a

supporter of Thaddeus Valentine, whom he

supporter of Thaddeus Valentine, whom he

supporter of Thaddeus Valentine, whom he

made Head Historian.

87

88

THE GUT

Most Traction Cities boast jaw-like structures at the front designed to seize smaller towns, and,

Most Traction Cities boast jaw-like structures at the front designed to seize smaller towns, and,

in some cases, to drag them into the city’s gut. “Gut” in modern parlance refers to the hangars

in some cases, to drag them into the city’s gut. “Gut” in modern parlance refers to the hangars

and harvesting districts on the lower levels of Traction Cities where resources are processed and

and harvesting districts on the lower levels of Traction Cities where resources are processed and

captured towns are stripped down. On large cities like London the Gut is heavily automated, with

captured towns are stripped down. On large cities like London the Gut is heavily automated, with

huge dismantling machines to tear prey apart and conveyor belts to carry the salvaged fuel and

huge dismantling machines to tear prey apart and conveyor belts to carry the salvaged fuel and

material away into other parts of the city. In smaller or more backwards places the Gut might

material away into other parts of the city. In smaller or more backwards places the Gut might

be just a big empty room and some gangs of workers with angle-grinders. It has been suggested

that the term “Gut” derives from the huge hangars at the lowest level of London, which were

originally known as the G.U.T. or “Great Under Tier”.

Engine district

Most city-engines are designed to be omnivorous and operate on a wide variety of fuels,

depending on what is available: coal, wood, fuel oil and methane are popular. Experimental

depending on what is available: coal, wood, fuel oil and methane are popular. Experimental

attempts to run cities on grass, seawater and sewage have proved unsuccessful.

attempts to run cities on grass, seawater and sewage have proved unsuccessful.

The Out-Country

Barren, muddy and often squished by passing cities: the sort of place to scare disobedient children

Barren, muddy and often squished by passing cities: the sort of place to scare disobedient children

Barren, muddy and often squished by passing cities: the sort of place to scare disobedient children

and the work-shy labouring classes (“If you’re naughty/lazy/demand higher wages you’ll be

and the work-shy labouring classes (“If you’re naughty/lazy/demand higher wages you’ll be

and the work-shy labouring classes (“If you’re naughty/lazy/demand higher wages you’ll be

thrown into the Out-Country and then you’ll be sorry”). People who have been living on cities

thrown into the Out-Country and then you’ll be sorry”). People who have been living on cities

for generations commonly believe the Out-Country is totally inimical to human life and full of

for generations commonly believe the Out-Country is totally inimical to human life and full of

quicksand, sinkholes and venomous vapours. In fact, scavengers, fugitives and adventurers are able

quicksand, sinkholes and venomous vapours. In fact, scavengers, fugitives and adventurers are able

to cross it relatively easily, and whole communities of outcasts live in the deep track-marks left by

to cross it relatively easily, and whole communities of outcasts live in the deep track-marks left by

to cross it relatively easily, and whole communities of outcasts live in the deep track-marks left by

prowling cities.

City-spoor

In the Golden Age of Tractionism, when prey was plentiful and the Hunting Ground had

In the Golden Age of Tractionism, when prey was plentiful and the Hunting Ground had

In the Golden Age of Tractionism, when prey was plentiful and the Hunting Ground had

not yet been reduced to a barren wasteland, Traction Cities would dump vast heaps of excess

not yet been reduced to a barren wasteland, Traction Cities would dump vast heaps of excess

not yet been reduced to a barren wasteland, Traction Cities would dump vast heaps of excess

material from their catches: used food packaging, unfashionable clothes, spent fuel cores,

material from their catches: used food packaging, unfashionable clothes, spent fuel cores,

material from their catches: used food packaging, unfashionable clothes, spent fuel cores,

material from their catches: used food packaging, unfashionable clothes, spent fuel cores,

clinker and slag, workshop offcuts and, occasionally, unwanted excess population who found

clinker and slag, workshop offcuts and, occasionally, unwanted excess population who found

clinker and slag, workshop offcuts and, occasionally, unwanted excess population who found

themselves marooned in the rubbish, picking their way through for leftovers. These were a great

themselves marooned in the rubbish, picking their way through for leftovers. These were a great

themselves marooned in the rubbish, picking their way through for leftovers. These were a great

source of food and salvage for scavenger towns, whose numbers multiplied in these years and

source of food and salvage for scavenger towns, whose numbers multiplied in these years and

source of food and salvage for scavenger towns, whose numbers multiplied in these years and

who sometimes trailed larger cities at a safe distance in order to be the first to their leavings.

who sometimes trailed larger cities at a safe distance in order to be the first to their leavings.

In later years, with prey becoming more scarce, the rigorous recycling regimes instituted in

In later years, with prey becoming more scarce, the rigorous recycling regimes instituted in

In later years, with prey becoming more scarce, the rigorous recycling regimes instituted in

many Traction Cities have made the waste dumped out in the Hunting Ground both rarer and

many Traction Cities have made the waste dumped out in the Hunting Ground both rarer and

many Traction Cities have made the waste dumped out in the Hunting Ground both rarer and

less usable.

90

Scavenger Towns

Small towns, frequently semi-static, sometimes not much bigger than the land-barges of old,

Small towns, frequently semi-static, sometimes not much bigger than the land-barges of old,

Small towns, frequently semi-static, sometimes not much bigger than the land-barges of old,

Small towns, frequently semi-static, sometimes not much bigger than the land-barges of old,

Small towns, frequently semi-static, sometimes not much bigger than the land-barges of old,

scour the Out-Country for the leavings of larger towns, or for Old-Tech sites which their

scour the Out-Country for the leavings of larger towns, or for Old-Tech sites which their

scour the Out-Country for the leavings of larger towns, or for Old-Tech sites which their

scour the Out-Country for the leavings of larger towns, or for Old-Tech sites which their

scour the Out-Country for the leavings of larger towns, or for Old-Tech sites which their

scour the Out-Country for the leavings of larger towns, or for Old-Tech sites which their

inhabitants can excavate. Although regarded as a dirty, unglamorous trade, it can be very

inhabitants can excavate. Although regarded as a dirty, unglamorous trade, it can be very

inhabitants can excavate. Although regarded as a dirty, unglamorous trade, it can be very

inhabitants can excavate. Although regarded as a dirty, unglamorous trade, it can be very

rewarding, making the fortune of famous scavengers such as Thaddeus Valentine and Black

rewarding, making the fortune of famous scavengers such as Thaddeus Valentine and Black

rewarding, making the fortune of famous scavengers such as Thaddeus Valentine and Black

rewarding, making the fortune of famous scavengers such as Thaddeus Valentine and Black

Jack Bapsnack, the owner of a popular Old-Tech emporium on Peripatetiapolis (“Black Jack

Jack Bapsnack, the owner of a popular Old-Tech emporium on Peripatetiapolis (“Black Jack

Jack Bapsnack, the owner of a popular Old-Tech emporium on Peripatetiapolis (“Black Jack

Jack Bapsnack, the owner of a popular Old-Tech emporium on Peripatetiapolis (“Black Jack

Bapsnack’s Old-Tech Knick-Knacks”). Harder times have left many scavengers going hungry and

Bapsnack’s Old-Tech Knick-Knacks”). Harder times have left many scavengers going hungry and

Bapsnack’s Old-Tech Knick-Knacks”). Harder times have left many scavengers going hungry and

Bapsnack’s Old-Tech Knick-Knacks”). Harder times have left many scavengers going hungry and

their mayors frequently write angry, badly spelled screeds in Tractionist newspapers about how

their mayors frequently write angry, badly spelled screeds in Tractionist newspapers about how

their mayors frequently write angry, badly spelled screeds in Tractionist newspapers about how

recycling inconveniences them. Many once-honourable scavenger towns have been forced into

recycling inconveniences them. Many once-honourable scavenger towns have been forced into

recycling inconveniences them. Many once-honourable scavenger towns have been forced into

piracy, slave-trading or casual archaeology, and they are often lawless and violent places.

piracy, slave-trading or casual archaeology, and they are often lawless and violent places.

Slider-towns

Glistening testaments to the vast appetites of the Ancients for greasy food, enormous fatbergs

Glistening testaments to the vast appetites of the Ancients for greasy food, enormous fatbergs

Glistening testaments to the vast appetites of the Ancients for greasy food, enormous fatbergs

sometimes wash up on the shores of the Great Hunting Ground. Whether these are produced

sometimes wash up on the shores of the Great Hunting Ground. Whether these are produced

by the slow accretion of grease in eddy currents at sea or calved from some mythical Ur-Fatberg

by the slow accretion of grease in eddy currents at sea or calved from some mythical Ur-Fatberg

is not clear, but the results often contain highly valuable and very well preserved (if pungent)

is not clear, but the results often contain highly valuable and very well preserved (if pungent)

Old-Tech. Even those without a freight of working diodes or greasy microcircuitry are

Old-Tech. Even those without a freight of working diodes or greasy microcircuitry are

immensely valuable in their own right as a source of fuel, lubrication, illumination and – in a

immensely valuable in their own right as a source of fuel, lubrication, illumination and – in a

pinch – nutrition. A whole class of specialized fatberg-scavenger towns, such as Splott, Kaypak

pinch – nutrition. A whole class of specialized fatberg-scavenger towns, such as Splott, Kaypak

and Swindon, sprung up in the ninth century TE to take advantage of the many fatbergs washed

and Swindon, sprung up in the ninth century TE to take advantage of the many fatbergs washed

up on the Longshore by the Arctic storms of that time. Known as “sliders” or “

schmierenstadts

schmierenstadts

”,

they would locate a particularly large fatberg and push it inland to escape predators, using

they would locate a particularly large fatberg and push it inland to escape predators, using

the greasy snail-trail this produced to move faster across the Hunting Ground while teams of

the greasy snail-trail this produced to move faster across the Hunting Ground while teams of

the greasy snail-trail this produced to move faster across the Hunting Ground while teams of

hardened fat-miners dug into the core of the berg.

Despite their enormous historical and cultural significance, these grotesque blobs of lipid were

Despite their enormous historical and cultural significance, these grotesque blobs of lipid were

Despite their enormous historical and cultural significance, these grotesque blobs of lipid were

Despite their enormous historical and cultural significance, these grotesque blobs of lipid were

Despite their enormous historical and cultural significance, these grotesque blobs of lipid were

Despite their enormous historical and cultural significance, these grotesque blobs of lipid were

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

mined to extinction within a few decades, and along with the slider-towns they are now almost

unknown. Their main legacy is in names, such as the Fettbergmann ruling family of Gröwli, or

unknown. Their main legacy is in names, such as the Fettbergmann ruling family of Gröwli, or

unknown. Their main legacy is in names, such as the Fettbergmann ruling family of Gröwli, or

unknown. Their main legacy is in names, such as the Fettbergmann ruling family of Gröwli, or

unknown. Their main legacy is in names, such as the Fettbergmann ruling family of Gröwli, or

unknown. Their main legacy is in names, such as the Fettbergmann ruling family of Gröwli, or

unknown. Their main legacy is in names, such as the Fettbergmann ruling family of Gröwli, or

London undertier fixer Fatberg Slim.

London undertier fixer Fatberg Slim.

91

motoropolis

One of the oldest and grandest Traction Cities, Motoropolis boomed during the Golden Age of

One of the oldest and grandest Traction Cities, Motoropolis boomed during the Golden Age of

One of the oldest and grandest Traction Cities, Motoropolis boomed during the Golden Age of

Traction, eventually expanding to a height of sixteen tiers. With an appetite to match its size,

Traction, eventually expanding to a height of sixteen tiers. With an appetite to match its size,

Motoropolis became increasingly hard-pressed in the late Traction Era, and its illustrious history

Motoropolis became increasingly hard-pressed in the late Traction Era, and its illustrious history

Motoropolis became increasingly hard-pressed in the late Traction Era, and its illustrious history

Motoropolis became increasingly hard-pressed in the late Traction Era, and its illustrious history

ended in 1006 TE after an ill-considered chase with Newtown-Fenner drained its fuel reserves.

ended in 1006 TE after an ill-considered chase with Newtown-Fenner drained its fuel reserves.

ended in 1006 TE after an ill-considered chase with Newtown-Fenner drained its fuel reserves.

ended in 1006 TE after an ill-considered chase with Newtown-Fenner drained its fuel reserves.

Immobilized and starving, Motoropolis was set upon by swarms of scavenger suburbs, a symbol

Immobilized and starving, Motoropolis was set upon by swarms of scavenger suburbs, a symbol

Immobilized and starving, Motoropolis was set upon by swarms of scavenger suburbs, a symbol

Immobilized and starving, Motoropolis was set upon by swarms of scavenger suburbs, a symbol

of the sorry state of modern Tractionism to pessimists and tabloid writers everywhere.

of the sorry state of modern Tractionism to pessimists and tabloid writers everywhere.

of the sorry state of modern Tractionism to pessimists and tabloid writers everywhere.

of the sorry state of modern Tractionism to pessimists and tabloid writers everywhere.

Hester Shaw

A mysterious young woman who arrived at

A mysterious young woman who arrived at

Batmunkh Gompa in the company of Anna

Batmunkh Gompa in the company of Anna

Fang during the London crisis of 1007 TE,

Fang during the London crisis of 1007 TE,

and later made off aboard the airship

and later made off aboard the airship

Jenny

Haniver

, with her companion, a young

, with her companion, a young

Londoner. The pair established themselves

Londoner. The pair established themselves

as air-traders, before becoming involved

as air-traders, before becoming involved

with Anchorage and its rash bid to reach

with Anchorage and its rash bid to reach

the Dead Continent – after which, like

the Dead Continent – after which, like

Anchorage itself, Hester Shaw seems to

Anchorage itself, Hester Shaw seems to

vanish from history.

92

94

Trading Cluster

A group of traction towns and motorized villages, meeting by chance or at some prearranged

A group of traction towns and motorized villages, meeting by chance or at some prearranged

A group of traction towns and motorized villages, meeting by chance or at some prearranged

location, and observing a truce in order to engage in trade.

location, and observing a truce in order to engage in trade.

Slavery

Slavery is a sad fact of life in the Traction Era. London itself was rebuilt as a Traction City largely

Slavery is a sad fact of life in the Traction Era. London itself was rebuilt as a Traction City largely

Slavery is a sad fact of life in the Traction Era. London itself was rebuilt as a Traction City largely

Slavery is a sad fact of life in the Traction Era. London itself was rebuilt as a Traction City largely

by slaves, whom Quirke purchased from the notorious Oktopous Cartel (many great London

by slaves, whom Quirke purchased from the notorious Oktopous Cartel (many great London

by slaves, whom Quirke purchased from the notorious Oktopous Cartel (many great London

by slaves, whom Quirke purchased from the notorious Oktopous Cartel (many great London

families can trace their ancestry back to these indentured labourers). Of course, Quirke freed

families can trace their ancestry back to these indentured labourers). Of course, Quirke freed

families can trace their ancestry back to these indentured labourers). Of course, Quirke freed

families can trace their ancestry back to these indentured labourers). Of course, Quirke freed

his slaves, and London prides itself on never enslaving the inhabitants of the towns it captures

his slaves, and London prides itself on never enslaving the inhabitants of the towns it captures

his slaves, and London prides itself on never enslaving the inhabitants of the towns it captures

his slaves, and London prides itself on never enslaving the inhabitants of the towns it captures

(although it could be argued that the grim workhouses and base-tier barracks they end up in

(although it could be argued that the grim workhouses and base-tier barracks they end up in

(although it could be argued that the grim workhouses and base-tier barracks they end up in

are little better than slave-holds). Other cities, such as Arkangel, have no such scruples, and

are little better than slave-holds). Other cities, such as Arkangel, have no such scruples, and

are little better than slave-holds). Other cities, such as Arkangel, have no such scruples, and

the Anti-Traction League is not always above enslaving the prisoners it takes in battles with

the Anti-Traction League is not always above enslaving the prisoners it takes in battles with

the Anti-Traction League is not always above enslaving the prisoners it takes in battles with

Tractionists. Along with Old-Tech, slaves are one of the main trade commodities of the later

Tractionists. Along with Old-Tech, slaves are one of the main trade commodities of the later

Tractionists. Along with Old-Tech, slaves are one of the main trade commodities of the later

Traction era. Successful slave-trading companies include the Shkin Corporation, Slave2Go and

Traction era. Successful slave-trading companies include the Shkin Corporation, Slave2Go and

Traction era. Successful slave-trading companies include the Shkin Corporation, Slave2Go and

Thrall-U-Like.

Pirate Suburb

Anti-Tractionists often scoff at the term “pirate suburbs”, pointing out that all Traction Cities are

Anti-Tractionists often scoff at the term “pirate suburbs”, pointing out that all Traction Cities are

Anti-Tractionists often scoff at the term “pirate suburbs”, pointing out that all Traction Cities are

Anti-Tractionists often scoff at the term “pirate suburbs”, pointing out that all Traction Cities are

Anti-Tractionists often scoff at the term “pirate suburbs”, pointing out that all Traction Cities are

basically pirates. The inhabitants of cities, stung by such jibes, reply that on the contrary, they

basically pirates. The inhabitants of cities, stung by such jibes, reply that on the contrary, they

basically pirates. The inhabitants of cities, stung by such jibes, reply that on the contrary, they

basically pirates. The inhabitants of cities, stung by such jibes, reply that on the contrary, they

basically pirates. The inhabitants of cities, stung by such jibes, reply that on the contrary, they

scrupulously follow the code of Municipal Darwinism. When they speak of “pirate suburbs”

scrupulously follow the code of Municipal Darwinism. When they speak of “pirate suburbs”

scrupulously follow the code of Municipal Darwinism. When they speak of “pirate suburbs”

scrupulously follow the code of Municipal Darwinism. When they speak of “pirate suburbs”

scrupulously follow the code of Municipal Darwinism. When they speak of “pirate suburbs”

they are referring to places which don’t: usually small, speedy townlets which use weapons and

they are referring to places which don’t: usually small, speedy townlets which use weapons and

they are referring to places which don’t: usually small, speedy townlets which use weapons and

they are referring to places which don’t: usually small, speedy townlets which use weapons and

tricks to catch luckless prey towns, whose inhabitants they generally murder or enslave.

tricks to catch luckless prey towns, whose inhabitants they generally murder or enslave.

tricks to catch luckless prey towns, whose inhabitants they generally murder or enslave.

tricks to catch luckless prey towns, whose inhabitants they generally murder or enslave.

Tunbridge Wheels

A notorious pirate suburb that haunted the Rustwater Marshes at the beginning of the eleventh

A notorious pirate suburb that haunted the Rustwater Marshes at the beginning of the eleventh

A notorious pirate suburb that haunted the Rustwater Marshes at the beginning of the eleventh

century TE under the leadership of its mayor, Chrysler Peavey.

century TE under the leadership of its mayor, Chrysler Peavey.

Peavey’s daughter Cortina survived the eventual destruction of the suburb, passed through the

Peavey’s daughter Cortina survived the eventual destruction of the suburb, passed through the

Peavey’s daughter Cortina survived the eventual destruction of the suburb, passed through the

Peavey’s daughter Cortina survived the eventual destruction of the suburb, passed through the

slave-pens of the Shkin Corporation, married into the wealthy Spetsnaz-Cholmondely family

slave-pens of the Shkin Corporation, married into the wealthy Spetsnaz-Cholmondely family

slave-pens of the Shkin Corporation, married into the wealthy Spetsnaz-Cholmondely family

slave-pens of the Shkin Corporation, married into the wealthy Spetsnaz-Cholmondely family

slave-pens of the Shkin Corporation, married into the wealthy Spetsnaz-Cholmondely family

and eventually became Lady Mayoress of Peripatetiapolis.

and eventually became Lady Mayoress of Peripatetiapolis.

95

The Traktion-
grad Kid

An infamous rogue of mysterious

background; the only thing acquaintances

can say for sure is that his Russian accent is

far too thick for him to have actually come

from Traktiongrad. His most famous heist,

in 989 TE, was dubbed “The Great Town

Robbery” by the

London Alarmist

. Disguised

as a plumber, he rerouted the pneumatic tube

networks of Zurich to fire canisters of cash off

networks of Zurich to fire canisters of cash off

Western Archipelago

When the western side of the former island of Britain subsided during the same upheavals which

When the western side of the former island of Britain subsided during the same upheavals which

raised the North Sea, a few upland areas were left as islands. The largest are Red Deer Island,

raised the North Sea, a few upland areas were left as islands. The largest are Red Deer Island,

Badman (or Bodmaen) Island, and Oak Island, which is the resting-place of a demotorized

Badman (or Bodmaen) Island, and Oak Island, which is the resting-place of a demotorized

traction town called Dunroamin’. Not to be confused with the more mountainous but less

traction town called Dunroamin’. Not to be confused with the more mountainous but less

pronounceable islands of the Cymric Archipelago further north, or the Irish-speaking island

pronounceable islands of the Cymric Archipelago further north, or the Irish-speaking island

chains to the west.

the stern of the city, to be caught by a funnel

stretched between the gasbags of his airship

Three-Legged Dog

, piloted by his associate

Three-Legged Dog, piloted by his associateThree-Legged Dog

Mr Cardiac. The

Three-Legged Dog

escaped

Three-Legged Dog escapedThree-Legged Dog

a squadron of furious Zurich gunships after

a three-day chase and escaped with an

estimated 98,000 gold francs. However,

having splashed almost all the proceeds on

an ill-advised revival of

Diana, Princess of

Whales

at the opera house of Panzerstadt-

Bayreuth, the Traktiongrad Kid fell on hard

times and was last seen in the association of

one Chrysler Peavey.

one Chrysler Peavey.

Pandora Shaw

Born Pandora Rae somewhere in the 960s

Born Pandora Rae somewhere in the 960s

Born Pandora Rae somewhere in the 960s

Born Pandora Rae somewhere in the 960s

TE, she gained some repute as a successful

TE, she gained some repute as a successful

TE, she gained some repute as a successful

TE, she gained some repute as a successful

TE, she gained some repute as a successful

aviatrix, freelance archaeologist and Out-

aviatrix, freelance archaeologist and Out-

aviatrix, freelance archaeologist and Out-

aviatrix, freelance archaeologist and Out-

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Country scavenger, and accompanied

Thaddeus Valentine on several of his

Thaddeus Valentine on several of his

Thaddeus Valentine on several of his

Thaddeus Valentine on several of his

Thaddeus Valentine on several of his

Thaddeus Valentine on several of his

relic-hunting expeditions. Perhaps her most

relic-hunting expeditions. Perhaps her most

relic-hunting expeditions. Perhaps her most

significant discovery was the complete

significant discovery was the complete

significant discovery was the complete

skeleton of a blue whale which later hung in

skeleton of a blue whale which later hung in

skeleton of a blue whale which later hung in

the Museum of London, although she also

the Museum of London, although she also

the Museum of London, although she also

had a reputation for understanding Old-

had a reputation for understanding Old-

had a reputation for understanding Old-

Tech devices. Retiring from adventuring, she

Tech devices. Retiring from adventuring, she

Tech devices. Retiring from adventuring, she

married the farmer David Shaw and lived

married the farmer David Shaw and lived

married the farmer David Shaw and lived

with him and their child on Oak Island, near

with him and their child on Oak Island, near

the ex-Traction City Dunroamin’, where she

the ex-Traction City Dunroamin’, where she

died of unknown causes in the year 1000 TE.

died of unknown causes in the year 1000 TE.

Bounty Hunters

All too often a villain who has committed crimes aboard a Traction City seeks to escape justice

All too often a villain who has committed crimes aboard a Traction City seeks to escape justice

All too often a villain who has committed crimes aboard a Traction City seeks to escape justice

simply by moving to a different town, or even fleeing on to the bare earth. Rather than send their

simply by moving to a different town, or even fleeing on to the bare earth. Rather than send their

simply by moving to a different town, or even fleeing on to the bare earth. Rather than send their

own police officers to pursue them, most cities simply issue a reward for the miscreant’s death or

own police officers to pursue them, most cities simply issue a reward for the miscreant’s death or

own police officers to pursue them, most cities simply issue a reward for the miscreant’s death or

own police officers to pursue them, most cities simply issue a reward for the miscreant’s death or

capture, and wait for the roving bounty hunters who haunt the Bird Roads to track them down.

capture, and wait for the roving bounty hunters who haunt the Bird Roads to track them down.

capture, and wait for the roving bounty hunters who haunt the Bird Roads to track them down.

Some bounty hunters have developed fearsome reputations: the Stalker Shrike is so feared that

Some bounty hunters have developed fearsome reputations: the Stalker Shrike is so feared that

Some bounty hunters have developed fearsome reputations: the Stalker Shrike is so feared that

fugitives who hear he is on their trail often kill themselves just to save time and bother.

fugitives who hear he is on their trail often kill themselves just to save time and bother.

fugitives who hear he is on their trail often kill themselves just to save time and bother.

fugitives who hear he is on their trail often kill themselves just to save time and bother.

fugitives who hear he is on their trail often kill themselves just to save time and bother.

fugitives who hear he is on their trail often kill themselves just to save time and bother.

fugitives who hear he is on their trail often kill themselves just to save time and bother.

97

Sunless Country

This name for the afterlife must have arisen during the Black Centuries, for it is used by

This name for the afterlife must have arisen during the Black Centuries, for it is used by

people all over the world; indeed, it may be a memory of those dreadful years, when the ashes

people all over the world; indeed, it may be a memory of those dreadful years, when the ashes

of the Sixty Minute War blocked out the sun and humankind was driven almost to extinction

of the Sixty Minute War blocked out the sun and humankind was driven almost to extinction

in a landscape of perpetual night. During the Traction Era people living aboard mobile towns

in a landscape of perpetual night. During the Traction Era people living aboard mobile towns

and cities often imagined the Sunless Country as a vast Traction City itself, a sort of travelling

and cities often imagined the Sunless Country as a vast Traction City itself, a sort of travelling

purgatory trundling through the darkness towards a hoped-for eternal hunting ground: the

purgatory trundling through the darkness towards a hoped-for eternal hunting ground: the

Fields of Asphodel, where prey would be plentiful. Those in the lands of the Anti-Traction

Fields of Asphodel, where prey would be plentiful. Those in the lands of the Anti-Traction

League pictured it as a shadowy underworld from where the ghosts of the dead observed the

League pictured it as a shadowy underworld from where the ghosts of the dead observed the

lives of their descendants, and made rude comments.

lives of their descendants, and made rude comments.

Bumper stickers

Around 700 TE there was a fad for these large posters, which were pasted on the rearward-facing

Around 700 TE there was a fad for these large posters, which were pasted on the rearward-facing

Around 700 TE there was a fad for these large posters, which were pasted on the rearward-facing

skirts or “bumpers” of cities, declaring their allegiance to a particular god, announcing their

skirts or “bumpers” of cities, declaring their allegiance to a particular god, announcing their

recent catches, or simply saying “Children on Board” or “How’s Our Hunting?”. These soon came

recent catches, or simply saying “Children on Board” or “How’s Our Hunting?”. These soon came

to be seen as irredeemably vulgar, and most self-respecting cities preferred to personalize their

to be seen as irredeemably vulgar, and most self-respecting cities preferred to personalize their

outer skirts in more tasteful ways, such as hanging giant furry dice from their tier-edges.

outer skirts in more tasteful ways, such as hanging giant furry dice from their tier-edges.

Semi-static

A catch-all term for Traction Cities that choose to remain in one place for sustained periods. Some

A catch-all term for Traction Cities that choose to remain in one place for sustained periods. Some

A catch-all term for Traction Cities that choose to remain in one place for sustained periods. Some

are “reluctant Tractionists” who farm or quarry the land around their city but still retain engines

are “reluctant Tractionists” who farm or quarry the land around their city but still retain engines

are “reluctant Tractionists” who farm or quarry the land around their city but still retain engines

and wheels so they can escape when bigger cities appear on the horizon; others are toll-seekers

and wheels so they can escape when bigger cities appear on the horizon; others are toll-seekers

and wheels so they can escape when bigger cities appear on the horizon; others are toll-seekers

taking control of some trade route or choke point. A few have simply run out of fuel or had a

taking control of some trade route or choke point. A few have simply run out of fuel or had a

taking control of some trade route or choke point. A few have simply run out of fuel or had a

taking control of some trade route or choke point. A few have simply run out of fuel or had a

taking control of some trade route or choke point. A few have simply run out of fuel or had a

breakdown and are making the most of it while they sit offering prayers to Peripatetia.

breakdown and are making the most of it while they sit offering prayers to Peripatetia.

breakdown and are making the most of it while they sit offering prayers to Peripatetia.

breakdown and are making the most of it while they sit offering prayers to Peripatetia.

98

Flying Towns

Airhaven, the famous flying town, began as one of many caravanserais built among the high

Airhaven, the famous flying town, began as one of many caravanserais built among the high

passes of the Shatterlands to cater to airships making the journey from the Middle Sea to the

passes of the Shatterlands to cater to airships making the journey from the Middle Sea to the

Hunting Ground. As the air-trade developed, these competing caravanserais moved further and

Hunting Ground. As the air-trade developed, these competing caravanserais moved further and

further up the mountainsides (air-traders always preferred to anchor at the highest ones rather

further up the mountainsides (air-traders always preferred to anchor at the highest ones rather

further up the mountainsides (air-traders always preferred to anchor at the highest ones rather

further up the mountainsides (air-traders always preferred to anchor at the highest ones rather

than waste gas, fuel and time descending to those at lower levels). This stepping-stone contest

than waste gas, fuel and time descending to those at lower levels). This stepping-stone contest

of climbing hill-towns went on for many decades, and did not stop when the caravanserais

of climbing hill-towns went on for many decades, and did not stop when the caravanserais

eventually ran out of mountain; they attached gas-balloons and large tethers so that their

eventually ran out of mountain; they attached gas-balloons and large tethers so that their

establishments could actually hang in the sky above their mountaintops, to be hauled down to

establishments could actually hang in the sky above their mountaintops, to be hauled down to

safety in poor weather. Airhaven was the first to take this process to its logical conclusion by

safety in poor weather. Airhaven was the first to take this process to its logical conclusion by

attaching engines and cutting its tethers, becoming, in effect, a gigantic, slow-moving airship.

attaching engines and cutting its tethers, becoming, in effect, a gigantic, slow-moving airship.

A number of other towns followed its lead, including Kipperhawk and Stratosphereham, but

A number of other towns followed its lead, including Kipperhawk and Stratosphereham, but

by 1000 TE Airhaven was the only one left, the others having variously drifted into volcanic

by 1000 TE Airhaven was the only one left, the others having variously drifted into volcanic

ash-clouds, crashed or found themselves undone by the unfortunate combination of flammable

ash-clouds, crashed or found themselves undone by the unfortunate combination of flammable

gasbags and drunken Tractionist-versus-Anti-Tractionist gunfights. The drop-boroughs of

gasbags and drunken Tractionist-versus-Anti-Tractionist gunfights. The drop-boroughs of

Australia followed an entirely separate evolutionary route, and are not true flying towns but

Australia followed an entirely separate evolutionary route, and are not true flying towns but

Australia followed an entirely separate evolutionary route, and are not true flying towns but

Australia followed an entirely separate evolutionary route, and are not true flying towns but

rather semi-flying, capable of jumping high and “falling with style”.

rather semi-flying, capable of jumping high and “falling with style”.

99

99

Airhaven

The largest town to ever fly, Airhaven is a neutral trading centre, enjoying

friendly relations with both Tractionists (who consider it a moving town) and

Anti-Tractionists (who consider it a very large airship). Traders and spies rub

shoulders and hatch plots at the famous Gasbag and Gondola inn, and the

aluminium-walled hotels along the High Street are always full of criminals

and smugglers hoping to stay above the law. There is always

something

going

something goingsomething

on in Airhaven.

Emblem of the Anti-Traction League
ATL emblems used in other regions
Lakdiva Zagwa Spitzbergen

102

102

The Anti-Traction League

A political and defensive alliance between most of the parts of the world not zooming around

A political and defensive alliance between most of the parts of the world not zooming around

on wheels, tracks or rafts. The League has its roots in the defence-and-cosmic-harmony alliance

on wheels, tracks or rafts. The League has its roots in the defence-and-cosmic-harmony alliance

founded by Lama Batmunkh in the early centuries TE, which allied numerous eastern states

founded by Lama Batmunkh in the early centuries TE, which allied numerous eastern states

against the roving hordes of nomad landships of those days. The Anti-Traction League was

against the roving hordes of nomad landships of those days. The Anti-Traction League was

formally pronounced in 525 TE, in recognition of the threat of Traction Cities which the Zagwan

formally pronounced in 525 TE, in recognition of the threat of Traction Cities which the Zagwan

Deluge had failed to stamp out, although its founders considered it to be a continuation of

Deluge had failed to stamp out, although its founders considered it to be a continuation of

Batmunkh’s wall-building tradition of five hundred years earlier. This new League was to be a

formal military arrangement, with its member states contributing soldiers and weapons to a

collective military, known as the Eighty-Seven Banner Army. However, this military was rarely

successful against Tractionism, and had been reduced to a Nineteen Banner Army by the

seventh century TE. Faced with ever-larger cities devouring its walls and flatland castles, the

League withdrew to the more defensible mountains of the Altai Shan, and turned to rocketry and

airships over battalions and bagua-based defences.

While retaining its capital at Tienjing and spiritual home in Shan Guo, the League gradually

came to represent Anti-Tractionism everywhere, with the Spitzbergen Static, Tibesti and Zagwa

variously counted among its member states or allies. Each of these contributed to the League’s

mighty Air-Fleets. These aerial armadas, and the heavier defences built at the Tien Shan

Shield-Wall and Los Libertadores Muro Grande, proved a highly effective deterrent to

marauding Traction Cities, although the League never seriously attempted rebuilding the old

sprawling fortified frontier of Lama Batmunkh’s day.

From the eighth century TE Tractionists and Anti-Tractionists shared the world in a peaceable if

From the eighth century TE Tractionists and Anti-Tractionists shared the world in a peaceable if

From the eighth century TE Tractionists and Anti-Tractionists shared the world in a peaceable if

not friendly stalemate, with Traction Cities generally accepting that they would probably never

not friendly stalemate, with Traction Cities generally accepting that they would probably never

manage to get past League defences to the rich heartlands of Shan Guo, and the League enjoying

manage to get past League defences to the rich heartlands of Shan Guo, and the League enjoying

manage to get past League defences to the rich heartlands of Shan Guo, and the League enjoying

the peace and prosperity by designing steadily bigger airships and increasingly elaborate military

the peace and prosperity by designing steadily bigger airships and increasingly elaborate military

the peace and prosperity by designing steadily bigger airships and increasingly elaborate military

the peace and prosperity by designing steadily bigger airships and increasingly elaborate military

uniforms, without having to worry so much about using them.

uniforms, without having to worry so much about using them.

103

Batmunkh Gompa

The “City of Eternal Strength”, standing guard over a broad pass through the Tien Shan

Mountains. Here, beneath the windows of the fortified monastery which gives the place

its name, Lama Batmunkh first built a wall against the threat of Tractionism. Over the

following centuries the wall became bigger and bigger, and by the time of the Third Traction

Boom it was seen as a sort of ultimate target for Traction Cities, the conquest that would give

a city legitimacy as Apex Predator. Throughout its history, many great cities vowed to be the

first to breach it, only to be destroyed by its rocket batteries and airships. The tallest stationary

man-made structure in the world, the wall’s western face is armoured with the deck-plates of

defeated assailants. The eastern face is densely built-up, with farmland stretching away eastward

along the shores of the lake of Batmunkh Nor. At the wall’s summit stand the High Eyries,

the hangars in which the airships of the Anti-Traction League’s Northern Air-Fleet are stationed.

Spitzbergen Static

The Anti-Traction League’s great northern stronghold, and a centre of the fur trade. It repelled

The Anti-Traction League’s great northern stronghold, and a centre of the fur trade. It repelled

various hungry predators as well as the pirate airships of Red Loki, but after the burning of the

various hungry predators as well as the pirate airships of Red Loki, but after the burning of the

Northern Air-Fleet at Batmunkh Gompa in 1007 TE many of the ships which had defended it

Northern Air-Fleet at Batmunkh Gompa in 1007 TE many of the ships which had defended it

were called away to duties elsewhere in the League’s territories, and in the winter of 1008 the city

were called away to duties elsewhere in the League’s territories, and in the winter of 1008 the city

of Arkangel, sensing its weakness, swept down across the ice to devour it. Its loss caused great

of Arkangel, sensing its weakness, swept down across the ice to devour it. Its loss caused great

discontent in the League and contributed to the rise of the extremist Green Storm movement.

discontent in the League and contributed to the rise of the extremist Green Storm movement.

Tibesti Static

The ancestral stronghold of the old Tibesti Caliphate, one of the ancient “Spring Cultures”.

The ancestral stronghold of the old Tibesti Caliphate, one of the ancient “Spring Cultures”.

Long aligned with Zagwa, the static’s fortunes have waned in the last few centuries, its borders

Long aligned with Zagwa, the static’s fortunes have waned in the last few centuries, its borders

constantly eroded by raiders and marauding towns. It now exists as little more than a chain of

constantly eroded by raiders and marauding towns. It now exists as little more than a chain of

fortresses in the African mountains south of the Sahara Desert.

fortresses in the African mountains south of the Sahara Desert.

Tienjing

The ancestral capital of the Anti-Traction League, and one of the largest and most populous

The ancestral capital of the Anti-Traction League, and one of the largest and most populous

non-moving cities in the world.

Those most devoted to the ideal of static life will, ironically, travel enormous distances in

Those most devoted to the ideal of static life will, ironically, travel enormous distances in

pilgrimage to the Street of Ten Thousand Deities and the Jade Pagoda, widely believed to have

pilgrimage to the Street of Ten Thousand Deities and the Jade Pagoda, widely believed to have

been the seat of League government for a thousand years.

been the seat of League government for a thousand years.

Air-Fleets of the Anti-Traction League

The Air-Fleets are comprised of warships drawn from across the Anti-Traction world. Besides

The Air-Fleets are comprised of warships drawn from across the Anti-Traction world. Besides

the three main forces – the Northern Air-Fleet, based in the High Eyries at Batmunkh Gompa;

the three main forces – the Northern Air-Fleet, based in the High Eyries at Batmunkh Gompa;

the Southern Air-Fleet, operating out of Chakana in the Andes; and the Central Air-Fleet,

the Southern Air-Fleet, operating out of Chakana in the Andes; and the Central Air-Fleet,

106

106

THE

MOKELE-MBEMBE

Built with larger gasbags for “hot and high” missions over central Africa, Zagwan gunships are

Built with larger gasbags for “hot and high” missions over central Africa, Zagwan gunships are

Built with larger gasbags for “hot and high” missions over central Africa, Zagwan gunships are

Built with larger gasbags for “hot and high” missions over central Africa, Zagwan gunships are

able to carry very heavy rocket payloads in the colder air of the Northern Air-Fleet’s patrol routes.

able to carry very heavy rocket payloads in the colder air of the Northern Air-Fleet’s patrol routes.

able to carry very heavy rocket payloads in the colder air of the Northern Air-Fleet’s patrol routes.

108

Captain Khora

Born among the bustling air-docks of Zagwa, Madzimoyo Khora crewed on air-freighters from

an early age before a meeting with Anna Fang in Nuevo Maya inspired him to join the Royal

Zagwan Flying Corps in 999 TE. Zagwan policy at the time was strictly defensive, greatly

based at the Jade Mountain anchorage in Taiwan – there are numerous local forces such as the

based at the Jade Mountain anchorage in Taiwan – there are numerous local forces such as the

based at the Jade Mountain anchorage in Taiwan – there are numerous local forces such as the

Aleutian Windriders and Zagwan Flying Corps.

Aleutian Windriders and Zagwan Flying Corps.

Aleutian Windriders and Zagwan Flying Corps.

Thanks to the tightly controlled production of silicon-silk and the safer “Luftgaz B” from

Thanks to the tightly controlled production of silicon-silk and the safer “Luftgaz B” from

Thanks to the tightly controlled production of silicon-silk and the safer “Luftgaz B” from

Shan Guonese helium plants, League warships have always had a qualitative advantage that

Shan Guonese helium plants, League warships have always had a qualitative advantage that

Shan Guonese helium plants, League warships have always had a qualitative advantage that

Tractionist design bureaux have never quite been able to match. Scientists in the more forward-

Tractionist design bureaux have never quite been able to match. Scientists in the more forward-

Tractionist design bureaux have never quite been able to match. Scientists in the more forward-

Tractionist design bureaux have never quite been able to match. Scientists in the more forward-

thinking areas of the League continue to develop airship technology with experimental

thinking areas of the League continue to develop airship technology with experimental

rocket-assists, gasbag-heating ascension systems, and heavy unguided glide bombs.

rocket-assists, gasbag-heating ascension systems, and heavy unguided glide bombs.

frustrating young aviators like Khora

frustrating young aviators like Khora

frustrating young aviators like Khora

frustrating young aviators like Khora

who longed to take the fight to the fierce

who longed to take the fight to the fierce

who longed to take the fight to the fierce

who longed to take the fight to the fierce

predators which constantly raided the

predators which constantly raided the

predators which constantly raided the

predators which constantly raided the

Empire’s outlying settlements. In 1005, Khora

Empire’s outlying settlements. In 1005, Khora

Empire’s outlying settlements. In 1005, Khora

Empire’s outlying settlements. In 1005, Khora

disobeyed standing orders and took his

disobeyed standing orders and took his

disobeyed standing orders and took his

disobeyed standing orders and took his

gunship

gunship

Mokele-Mbembe

Mokele-Mbembe

deep into the

deep into the

Sahara to attack the notoriously piratical

Sahara to attack the notoriously piratical

Sahara to attack the notoriously piratical

Sahara to attack the notoriously piratical

Traction City of Bamako. The raid, which left

Traction City of Bamako. The raid, which left

Traction City of Bamako. The raid, which left

Traction City of Bamako. The raid, which left

Bamako immobilized and ended its reign of

Bamako immobilized and ended its reign of

Bamako immobilized and ended its reign of

Bamako immobilized and ended its reign of

terror, was so successful that Queen Abeni

terror, was so successful that Queen Abeni

terror, was so successful that Queen Abeni

terror, was so successful that Queen Abeni

and her government decided not to punish

and her government decided not to punish

and her government decided not to punish

and her government decided not to punish

Khora, instead transferring him to the

Khora, instead transferring him to the

Khora, instead transferring him to the

Khora, instead transferring him to the

Anti-Traction League’s Northern Air Fleet at

Anti-Traction League’s Northern Air Fleet at

Anti-Traction League’s Northern Air Fleet at

Anti-Traction League’s Northern Air Fleet at

Batmunkh Gompa, where he was wounded

Batmunkh Gompa, where he was wounded

Batmunkh Gompa, where he was wounded

Batmunkh Gompa, where he was wounded

fighting enemy saboteurs as London

fighting enemy saboteurs as London

fighting enemy saboteurs as London

fighting enemy saboteurs as London

launched its assault on the Shield-Wall.

launched its assault on the Shield-Wall.

launched its assault on the Shield-Wall.

launched its assault on the Shield-Wall.

Air-trade

Lighter-than-air flight is believed to have emerged in Europa sometime in the sixth century TE;

however, the Anti-Traction League always claimed to have had it for far longer, using yak-skin

balloons to reach their hilltop cities. The air-trade took off greatly in the early years of Traction

balloons to reach their hilltop cities. The air-trade took off greatly in the early years of Traction

Cities, when it was widely recognized as a sensible way of a) trading with cities that were not

Cities, when it was widely recognized as a sensible way of a) trading with cities that were not

Cities, when it was widely recognized as a sensible way of a) trading with cities that were not

always where you left them and b) not being eaten by them. The increasing use of airships led

always where you left them and b) not being eaten by them. The increasing use of airships led

always where you left them and b) not being eaten by them. The increasing use of airships led

to the end of the old nomadic merchant convoys whose land barges had criss-crossed Europa

to the end of the old nomadic merchant convoys whose land barges had criss-crossed Europa

since the dawn of Traction: the few merchants whose barges had not been eaten by peckish cities

since the dawn of Traction: the few merchants whose barges had not been eaten by peckish cities

since the dawn of Traction: the few merchants whose barges had not been eaten by peckish cities

swapped them for dirigibles, or simply lashed them to gasbags and rose above the fray. Air-

swapped them for dirigibles, or simply lashed them to gasbags and rose above the fray. Air-

swapped them for dirigibles, or simply lashed them to gasbags and rose above the fray. Air-

traders often travelled in large convoys, where their numbers protected them against air-pirates

traders often travelled in large convoys, where their numbers protected them against air-pirates

and the other perils of the sky.

and the other perils of the sky.

109

Airsperanto

Combining elements of German, Chinese, Anglish and a hundred other tongues, Airsperanto

Combining elements of German, Chinese, Anglish and a hundred other tongues, Airsperanto

is the common language of aviators, who are proud to (literally) rise above all the petty

is the common language of aviators, who are proud to (literally) rise above all the petty

differences of city against city or Tractionist against Anti-Tractionist.

differences of city against city or Tractionist against Anti-Tractionist.

Throughout the Traction Era the air-trade was considered “neutral ground” and was the main

Throughout the Traction Era the air-trade was considered “neutral ground” and was the main

route for semi-official trade between cities and the static nations of the Anti-Traction League.

route for semi-official trade between cities and the static nations of the Anti-Traction League.

Naturally, in times of tension, both sides used the air-trade as a handy means of inserting spies

Naturally, in times of tension, both sides used the air-trade as a handy means of inserting spies

and saboteurs into the strongholds of the other, and in harsh times some aviators were not above

and saboteurs into the strongholds of the other, and in harsh times some aviators were not above

working as freelance spotters for predatory cities.

Certain wild-eyed conspiracy theorists down the centuries have postulated that the London

Certain wild-eyed conspiracy theorists down the centuries have postulated that the London

Guild of Engineers also employ a secret “Suppression Office”, a black-ops unit working to prevent

Guild of Engineers also employ a secret “Suppression Office”, a black-ops unit working to prevent

the development of inventions which the Engineers deem dangerous to London. They point

the development of inventions which the Engineers deem dangerous to London. They point

to the unpleasant ends that routinely came to attempted pioneers of heavier-than-air flying

to the unpleasant ends that routinely came to attempted pioneers of heavier-than-air flying

machines until the tenth century, and the impossibility of getting research funding for long-

machines until the tenth century, and the impossibility of getting research funding for long-

range wireless telegraphy anywhere in the Great Hunting Ground.

110

Rocket projector

Lighter, cheaper and simpler than cannon, and lacking dangerous muzzle flashes, rockets have

Lighter, cheaper and simpler than cannon, and lacking dangerous muzzle flashes, rockets have

been the primary tool of airship combat for as long as anyone can remember. While rocket

been the primary tool of airship combat for as long as anyone can remember. While rocket

projectors took many forms, they have two essential components: a solid-fuel rocket with a very

projectors took many forms, they have two essential components: a solid-fuel rocket with a very

short ignition fuse, and a booster device (be it a compressed-air charge, a steam catapult, a spigot

short ignition fuse, and a booster device (be it a compressed-air charge, a steam catapult, a spigot

mortar or just a big spring) for pushing the rocket far enough away from the airship that the

mortar or just a big spring) for pushing the rocket far enough away from the airship that the

back-blast cannot set said airship on fire. Like airships themselves, they are simple enough

back-blast cannot set said airship on fire. Like airships themselves, they are simple enough

that even diehard techno-sceptics among the old Anti-Traction League would accept them, yet

that even diehard techno-sceptics among the old Anti-Traction League would accept them, yet

effective enough to arm League Air-Fleets.

Lifting-gas or luftgaz

A catch-all term for all the many different sorts of lighter-than-air gas used to keep airships aloft.

These included hydrogen, helium, methane, hot ammonia and coal gas. Helium – “Luftgaz B”

– was favoured by Anti-Traction League airships as their static homelands had the mining

infrastructure in place to find it. As helium airships were generally safer, the Anti-Traction League

traditionally built larger ships, including the towering spice freighters of the Hundred Islands,

which made immense voyages at high altitudes. Tractionists preferred “Luftgaz A”, or hydrogen,

which Traction Cities could easily split from water, having access to plenty of power for electrolysis.

However, hydrogen-filled airships had a reputation for what airship manufacturers called “sudden

catastrophic venting” and everyone else called “exploding”. This led to a lasting distrust of airships

among the Traction Cities, which usually restricted them to specialized docking areas, as far as

possible from the main parts of the city, where fires could be more easily brought under control.

possible from the main parts of the city, where fires could be more easily brought under control.

Homing beacon

Radio beacons mounted aboard most towns and cities to guide airships to them. These devices

have replaced old-fashioned visual navigation aids on most cities, although Brighton kept its

Pharos Wheel (a popular tourist attraction) for nostalgia’s sake. Each city has a distinct tone or

radio signature, and experienced aviators have learned to recognize Arkangel’s wavering howl

or the homely warble of the Airhaven transmitter as they cut through the spluttering static of

or the homely warble of the Airhaven transmitter as they cut through the spluttering static of

the Bird Roads.

111

Short-range
radio antenna
Beacon tracking
receiver
Command cabin
Gondola

Gondola
Aft lift rotor
Elevator
Rudder
Port side Jeunet Carot
engine pod

The Bird Roads

The term “Bird Roads” originally referred to the established trade routes along which convoys of

The term “Bird Roads” originally referred to the established trade routes along which convoys of

The term “Bird Roads” originally referred to the established trade routes along which convoys of

The term “Bird Roads” originally referred to the established trade routes along which convoys of

airships carried cargo. These followed the path of favourable high-level winds, winding through

airships carried cargo. These followed the path of favourable high-level winds, winding through

airships carried cargo. These followed the path of favourable high-level winds, winding through

airships carried cargo. These followed the path of favourable high-level winds, winding through

the various mountains, volcanoes and known pirate hotspots. Later, it was used to describe the

the various mountains, volcanoes and known pirate hotspots. Later, it was used to describe the

the various mountains, volcanoes and known pirate hotspots. Later, it was used to describe the

the various mountains, volcanoes and known pirate hotspots. Later, it was used to describe the

air-trade in general. Many was the young lad who loitered near his city’s air-dock watching the

air-trade in general. Many was the young lad who loitered near his city’s air-dock watching the

air-trade in general. Many was the young lad who loitered near his city’s air-dock watching the

airships come and go, air-train-spotting and dreaming of the day he would “take the Bird Roads”.

airships come and go, air-train-spotting and dreaming of the day he would “take the Bird Roads”.

airships come and go, air-train-spotting and dreaming of the day he would “take the Bird Roads”.

Practically, the “roads” follow the winds, which can be used by canny navigators to travel vast

Practically, the “roads” follow the winds, which can be used by canny navigators to travel vast

Practically, the “roads” follow the winds, which can be used by canny navigators to travel vast

Practically, the “roads” follow the winds, which can be used by canny navigators to travel vast

distances while barely using their engines – or can present fierce, fuel-draining obstacles to the

distances while barely using their engines – or can present fierce, fuel-draining obstacles to the

distances while barely using their engines – or can present fierce, fuel-draining obstacles to the

inexperienced aviator. Many of the winds have their own particular names, most famously the

inexperienced aviator. Many of the winds have their own particular names, most famously the

inexperienced aviator. Many of the winds have their own particular names, most famously the

Third Silk Road, which carries high-altitude airships westwards across central Asia. Some winds

Third Silk Road, which carries high-altitude airships westwards across central Asia. Some winds

Third Silk Road, which carries high-altitude airships westwards across central Asia. Some winds

are predictable, like the winter mistral blowing into the Gulf of Lions, or the Brickfielder which

are predictable, like the winter mistral blowing into the Gulf of Lions, or the Brickfielder which

carries airships and vast clouds of red dust north from the Great Sand Sea each spring. Some are

carries airships and vast clouds of red dust north from the Great Sand Sea each spring. Some are

predictably unpredictable, like the fierce Karbaashidda which changes direction over the Indian

predictably unpredictable, like the fierce Karbaashidda which changes direction over the Indian

Ocean twice a year, or the North Atlantic Gyratory, which some meteorologists describe as a

Ocean twice a year, or the North Atlantic Gyratory, which some meteorologists describe as a

permanent hurricane. Others, like the Tibesti Khamaseen, can spring up without warning and

permanent hurricane. Others, like the Tibesti Khamaseen, can spring up without warning and

blow an airship hundreds of miles before leaving their victims becalmed in slack-sock skies.

blow an airship hundreds of miles before leaving their victims becalmed in slack-sock skies.

Most feared of all is the Manhattan Harmattan; without performing a swift

volta do ceu

volta do ceu

upon

sighting the blackened American coast, aviators and aviatrices will be caught in its clutches and

sighting the blackened American coast, aviators and aviatrices will be caught in its clutches and

swept across the Dead Continent.

Sky Train

As an alternative to convoys, which can easily be scattered by bad weather and can only move

As an alternative to convoys, which can easily be scattered by bad weather and can only move

at the speed of the slowest vessel, some air-traders took to using sky trains, in which as many

at the speed of the slowest vessel, some air-traders took to using sky trains, in which as many

as sixteen large airships were coupled together in a long line, usually protected by a couple of

as sixteen large airships were coupled together in a long line, usually protected by a couple of

small fighting ships. Sky trains offered significant savings for wealthy merchants, since not all

the ships in a train needed crews or engines. Unfortunately, unlike the convoys, they could not

scatter and regroup when danger threatened, and after a few expensive losses they fell out

of fashion.

Boreal Regatta

A great air-race, held each summer in the far north. The wealthy merchants of Arkangel bet

A great air-race, held each summer in the far north. The wealthy merchants of Arkangel bet

A great air-race, held each summer in the far north. The wealthy merchants of Arkangel bet

A great air-race, held each summer in the far north. The wealthy merchants of Arkangel bet

huge amounts on the Regatta, and the sons of the great corporate families often enter their own

huge amounts on the Regatta, and the sons of the great corporate families often enter their own

huge amounts on the Regatta, and the sons of the great corporate families often enter their own

air-yachts. The Anti-Tractionist aviatrix Anna Fang escaped from slavery aboard Arkangel as a

air-yachts. The Anti-Tractionist aviatrix Anna Fang escaped from slavery aboard Arkangel as a

air-yachts. The Anti-Tractionist aviatrix Anna Fang escaped from slavery aboard Arkangel as a

air-yachts. The Anti-Tractionist aviatrix Anna Fang escaped from slavery aboard Arkangel as a

young woman by promising her owner that she could build him an airship fast enough to win

young woman by promising her owner that she could build him an airship fast enough to win

young woman by promising her owner that she could build him an airship fast enough to win

young woman by promising her owner that she could build him an airship fast enough to win

young woman by promising her owner that she could build him an airship fast enough to win

the Boreal Regatta and then used it to flee the city.

116

116

118

Anna FANG

Surprisingly little is known about this famous aviatrix and Anti-Tractionist intelligence agent,

Surprisingly little is known about this famous aviatrix and Anti-Tractionist intelligence agent,

known as the Wind-Flower in the lands of the League. Her parents are said to have been

known as the Wind-Flower in the lands of the League. Her parents are said to have been

northern air-traders whose ship was captured by Arkangel. What became of them is unknown,

northern air-traders whose ship was captured by Arkangel. What became of them is unknown,

but Anna grew up in the slave-holds of the ice city where, we can assume, she developed a

lifelong hatred for Tractionism. In the mid-970s TE, during one of the corporate power-shifts

which characterized life in Arkangel, she was moved to the airship-yards of the powerful Kael

which characterized life in Arkangel, she was moved to the airship-yards of the powerful Kael

family. According to legend, the youngest son of the family, Stilton Kael, became besotted with her,

family. According to legend, the youngest son of the family, Stilton Kael, became besotted with her,

and allowed her to start building an airship which they would fly together in the Boreal Regatta

and allowed her to start building an airship which they would fly together in the Boreal Regatta

air-race. Anna, however, tricked him, and took off alone. How she survived in the Ice Wastes, in

air-race. Anna, however, tricked him, and took off alone. How she survived in the Ice Wastes, in

a half-completed airship, with little fuel or provisions, is unknown. In later life she sometimes

a half-completed airship, with little fuel or provisions, is unknown. In later life she sometimes

referred to a mysterious “White Lady” who had helped her, but who this could have been is

referred to a mysterious “White Lady” who had helped her, but who this could have been is

referred to a mysterious “White Lady” who had helped her, but who this could have been is

unclear, and some have suggested that she was referring to a hallucination or religious

unclear, and some have suggested that she was referring to a hallucination or religious

unclear, and some have suggested that she was referring to a hallucination or religious

experience. At any rate, she found her way to territory held by the Anti-Traction League, and is

experience. At any rate, she found her way to territory held by the Anti-Traction League, and is

experience. At any rate, she found her way to territory held by the Anti-Traction League, and is

believed to have acted as a spy for the League for the next few decades, while also working as an

believed to have acted as a spy for the League for the next few decades, while also working as an

believed to have acted as a spy for the League for the next few decades, while also working as an

air-trader. Her ship, the

air-trader. Her ship, the

Jenny Haniver,

is known to have been present at many of the trouble-

is known to have been present at many of the trouble-

spots of the period: Khamchatka in 899, North Australia in 986, and the Hundred Islands in 992.

spots of the period: Khamchatka in 899, North Australia in 986, and the Hundred Islands in 992.

spots of the period: Khamchatka in 899, North Australia in 986, and the Hundred Islands in 992.

How important she was, and what part she played in deciding League policy, is unclear, but she

How important she was, and what part she played in deciding League policy, is unclear, but she

How important she was, and what part she played in deciding League policy, is unclear, but she

is said to have been rewarded with a country estate in Shan Guo, suggesting she had been of great

is said to have been rewarded with a country estate in Shan Guo, suggesting she had been of great

is said to have been rewarded with a country estate in Shan Guo, suggesting she had been of great

use to them. She is credited with sinking a pirate suburb in the Sea of Khazak in 1007, and after

use to them. She is credited with sinking a pirate suburb in the Sea of Khazak in 1007, and after

use to them. She is credited with sinking a pirate suburb in the Sea of Khazak in 1007, and after

that her story becomes unclear; some say she was killed soon afterwards, others that she went on

that her story becomes unclear; some say she was killed soon afterwards, others that she went on

that her story becomes unclear; some say she was killed soon afterwards, others that she went on

to lead the Green Storm movement. The only contemporary biography of this curious figure,

to lead the Green Storm movement. The only contemporary biography of this curious figure,

to lead the Green Storm movement. The only contemporary biography of this curious figure,

A

True History of the Wind-Flower

True History of the Wind-Flower

, written by Sathya Kuranath, is generally regarded as unreliable.

, written by Sathya Kuranath, is generally regarded as unreliable.

119

Cities of the Great

Hunting Ground

124

Conurbation

A conurbation (or “

Traktionstadtballungsraum

Traktionstadtballungsraum

”) is a type of city formed by combining a number

”) is a type of city formed by combining a number

of smaller towns and cities, a process known as

of smaller towns and cities, a process known as

Traktionstadtanschluss

. Most common among

. Most common among

German-speaking cities, which were historically smaller than their neighbours as they were more

German-speaking cities, which were historically smaller than their neighbours as they were more

German-speaking cities, which were historically smaller than their neighbours as they were more

interested in jousting or trading than eating each other, they began joining together for mutual

interested in jousting or trading than eating each other, they began joining together for mutual

interested in jousting or trading than eating each other, they began joining together for mutual

protection after

Traktionturnieren

fell out of fashion around 700 TE.

fell out of fashion around 700 TE.

fell out of fashion around 700 TE.

Dortmund Conurbation

A large group of small, mainly German-speaking towns which began the process of

A large group of small, mainly German-speaking towns which began the process of

A large group of small, mainly German-speaking towns which began the process of

Traktionstadtanschluss

in 1004, but are still linked together only by bridges and walkways –

in 1004, but are still linked together only by bridges and walkways –

in 1004, but are still linked together only by bridges and walkways –

Dortmund remains a work-in-progress.

Panzerstadt-Bayreuth

One of the largest and longest-surviving conurbations, formed by the joining of four smaller

One of the largest and longest-surviving conurbations, formed by the joining of four smaller

Traktionstadts

Traktionstadts

. Renowned for its ferocious turn of speed, Panzerstadt-Bayreuth was destroyed

. Renowned for its ferocious turn of speed, Panzerstadt-Bayreuth was destroyed

in the MEDUSA event, leaving a wreck so vast that half the scavenger suburbs of the Hunting

in the MEDUSA event, leaving a wreck so vast that half the scavenger suburbs of the Hunting

Ground were drawn in to strip it, but so dangerous that few ever returned.

Ground were drawn in to strip it, but so dangerous that few ever returned.

125

City Races

During the Golden Age of Traction it was briefly fashionable for evenly matched cities to race one

During the Golden Age of Traction it was briefly fashionable for evenly matched cities to race one

another over an agreed course, sometimes stretching for several thousand miles. Occasionally

another over an agreed course, sometimes stretching for several thousand miles. Occasionally

participants would bet their whole future on the outcome of the race, with the loser agreeing

participants would bet their whole future on the outcome of the race, with the loser agreeing

to be eaten by the winner. More usually the prize was a symbolic one, such as the famous

to be eaten by the winner. More usually the prize was a symbolic one, such as the famous

Lightfoot Cup.

Paris

One of the earliest mobile cities, Paris motorized just in time to escape being devoured by

One of the earliest mobile cities, Paris motorized just in time to escape being devoured by

One of the earliest mobile cities, Paris motorized just in time to escape being devoured by

London, and used engines copied from London’s own. As the air-trade developed it became

London, and used engines copied from London’s own. As the air-trade developed it became

London, and used engines copied from London’s own. As the air-trade developed it became

popular with aviators, who tethered their airships to the distinctive iron lattice of its famous

popular with aviators, who tethered their airships to the distinctive iron lattice of its famous

popular with aviators, who tethered their airships to the distinctive iron lattice of its famous

mooring tower. During the Golden Age it took part in several city races, beating London on

mooring tower. During the Golden Age it took part in several city races, beating London on

mooring tower. During the Golden Age it took part in several city races, beating London on

three famous occasions at the Lightfoot Cup. It was also home to the Jeunet Carot factory,

three famous occasions at the Lightfoot Cup. It was also home to the Jeunet Carot factory,

three famous occasions at the Lightfoot Cup. It was also home to the Jeunet Carot factory,

which produced some of the world’s finest aëro-engines.

which produced some of the world’s finest aëro-engines.

126

Cittamotore

By far the fastest conventional city ever built, Cittamotore was easily identified by its bright

By far the fastest conventional city ever built, Cittamotore was easily identified by its bright

By far the fastest conventional city ever built, Cittamotore was easily identified by its bright

By far the fastest conventional city ever built, Cittamotore was easily identified by its bright

red-and-chrome livery and the fact that ninety per cent of its bulk was engine district. The few

red-and-chrome livery and the fact that ninety per cent of its bulk was engine district. The few

red-and-chrome livery and the fact that ninety per cent of its bulk was engine district. The few

red-and-chrome livery and the fact that ninety per cent of its bulk was engine district. The few

actual houses were stuck on top of pistons, crammed in between driveshafts, or clustered around

actual houses were stuck on top of pistons, crammed in between driveshafts, or clustered around

actual houses were stuck on top of pistons, crammed in between driveshafts, or clustered around

actual houses were stuck on top of pistons, crammed in between driveshafts, or clustered around

actual houses were stuck on top of pistons, crammed in between driveshafts, or clustered around

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

the great dials of the ruling district (informally known as

Il Cruscotto

.) While Cittamotore’s

.) While Cittamotore’s

speed might have made it the terror of the Great Hunting Ground, the inhabitants refused to

speed might have made it the terror of the Great Hunting Ground, the inhabitants refused to

speed might have made it the terror of the Great Hunting Ground, the inhabitants refused to

speed might have made it the terror of the Great Hunting Ground, the inhabitants refused to

speed might have made it the terror of the Great Hunting Ground, the inhabitants refused to

speed might have made it the terror of the Great Hunting Ground, the inhabitants refused to

speed might have made it the terror of the Great Hunting Ground, the inhabitants refused to

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

lumber their city with heavy jaws when they could be putting spoilers and booster rockets on

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

instead, and the city was easily evaded just by turning to the side, as Cittamotoreans were far too

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

proud to slow down to speeds where they could actually steer. It fell on hard times during the fuel

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

and prey shortages of the later Traction Era and was eventually eaten by London.

127

Peripatetiapolis

A city in whose pleasant streets and parks the spirit of the Golden Age has persisted long into the

A city in whose pleasant streets and parks the spirit of the Golden Age has persisted long into the

A city in whose pleasant streets and parks the spirit of the Golden Age has persisted long into the

twilight of Tractionism. Famous for its hanging gardens, artificial waterfalls and busy covered

twilight of Tractionism. Famous for its hanging gardens, artificial waterfalls and busy covered

twilight of Tractionism. Famous for its hanging gardens, artificial waterfalls and busy covered

markets, it is a popular stop for air-traders. Although originally a hunter, it has learned to survive

markets, it is a popular stop for air-traders. Although originally a hunter, it has learned to survive

markets, it is a popular stop for air-traders. Although originally a hunter, it has learned to survive

chiefly by trade and the technical know-how of its inhabitants. Peripatetian motor firms such

chiefly by trade and the technical know-how of its inhabitants. Peripatetian motor firms such

chiefly by trade and the technical know-how of its inhabitants. Peripatetian motor firms such

as Simone & Challacombe continue to produce world-beating designs for city-engines, and the

as Simone & Challacombe continue to produce world-beating designs for city-engines, and the

as Simone & Challacombe continue to produce world-beating designs for city-engines, and the

city’s upper tier hospitals are leaders in the field of Old-Tech medicine. Peripatetiapolis uses its

city’s upper tier hospitals are leaders in the field of Old-Tech medicine. Peripatetiapolis uses its

city’s upper tier hospitals are leaders in the field of Old-Tech medicine. Peripatetiapolis uses its

jaws only occasionally, to swallow up towns that have grown weary of running from predators

jaws only occasionally, to swallow up towns that have grown weary of running from predators

jaws only occasionally, to swallow up towns that have grown weary of running from predators

jaws only occasionally, to swallow up towns that have grown weary of running from predators

jaws only occasionally, to swallow up towns that have grown weary of running from predators

jaws only occasionally, to swallow up towns that have grown weary of running from predators

and have petitioned to merge with it.

and have petitioned to merge with it.

128

128

Peripatetia

Originally a savage war-goddess of the nomad empires, Peripatetia was reinvented after the Third

Originally a savage war-goddess of the nomad empires, Peripatetia was reinvented after the Third

Originally a savage war-goddess of the nomad empires, Peripatetia was reinvented after the Third

Originally a savage war-goddess of the nomad empires, Peripatetia was reinvented after the Third

Originally a savage war-goddess of the nomad empires, Peripatetia was reinvented after the Third

Originally a savage war-goddess of the nomad empires, Peripatetia was reinvented after the Third

Traction Boom as the kindly guardian of mobile cities, watching over their citizens and protect-

Traction Boom as the kindly guardian of mobile cities, watching over their citizens and protect-

Traction Boom as the kindly guardian of mobile cities, watching over their citizens and protect-

Traction Boom as the kindly guardian of mobile cities, watching over their citizens and protect-

ing them against boiler explosions, snapped axles and track failure. She is usually portrayed as a

ing them against boiler explosions, snapped axles and track failure. She is usually portrayed as a

ing them against boiler explosions, snapped axles and track failure. She is usually portrayed as a

ing them against boiler explosions, snapped axles and track failure. She is usually portrayed as a

beautiful young woman carrying an oil can and monkey wrench.

Traction Avant

Traction Avant boasted an unusual articulated design whereby the engine districts and Gut

Traction Avant boasted an unusual articulated design whereby the engine districts and Gut

were built on a forward satellite town, which hauled the main settlement, in order to spare the

were built on a forward satellite town, which hauled the main settlement, in order to spare the

city’s more refined areas from being built above noisy engines and inconvenient poor people.

city’s more refined areas from being built above noisy engines and inconvenient poor people.

Unfortunately, the design did not take into account the effect of wind, and Traction Avant’s

Unfortunately, the design did not take into account the effect of wind, and Traction Avant’s

wealthier citizens spent most of the city’s existence inhaling engine fumes, flatulence and the smell

wealthier citizens spent most of the city’s existence inhaling engine fumes, flatulence and the smell

of frying onions from the impoverished

avant-arrondissement

avant-arrondissement

. In a desperate attempt to stem

the flight of fashionable citizens, in 981 TE mayor Auguste Twingo ordered the city’s direction

the flight of fashionable citizens, in 981 TE mayor Auguste Twingo ordered the city’s direction

the flight of fashionable citizens, in 981 TE mayor Auguste Twingo ordered the city’s direction

the flight of fashionable citizens, in 981 TE mayor Auguste Twingo ordered the city’s direction

of travel reversed; the sound of snapping axles could be heard from miles away by predators, who

of travel reversed; the sound of snapping axles could be heard from miles away by predators, who

descended en masse on the helpless jackknifed city.

descended en masse on the helpless jackknifed city.

129

Bordeaux-Mobile

Very few predators have ever considered the wine-making city Bordeaux-Mobile as a meal, for

Very few predators have ever considered the wine-making city Bordeaux-Mobile as a meal, for

Very few predators have ever considered the wine-making city Bordeaux-Mobile as a meal, for

fear of incurring the wrath of influential wine connoisseurs across the entire Hunting Ground.

fear of incurring the wrath of influential wine connoisseurs across the entire Hunting Ground.

fear of incurring the wrath of influential wine connoisseurs across the entire Hunting Ground.

Those that do give chase have often lost their way, their navigators intoxicated by the pall of

Those that do give chase have often lost their way, their navigators intoxicated by the pall of

Those that do give chase have often lost their way, their navigators intoxicated by the pall of

Those that do give chase have often lost their way, their navigators intoxicated by the pall of

Those that do give chase have often lost their way, their navigators intoxicated by the pall of

alcohol fumes that follow the city everywhere.

alcohol fumes that follow the city everywhere.

San Juan de los Motores

Sister city to St Jean les Quatre-Milles Cheveaux, and, indeed, once part of it. Disagreements

Sister city to St Jean les Quatre-Milles Cheveaux, and, indeed, once part of it. Disagreements

Sister city to St Jean les Quatre-Milles Cheveaux, and, indeed, once part of it. Disagreements

between the original city’s many chefs over whether steak should be served medium or rare

between the original city’s many chefs over whether steak should be served medium or rare

between the original city’s many chefs over whether steak should be served medium or rare

between the original city’s many chefs over whether steak should be served medium or rare

caused a brief civil war, at the end of which the rival factions literally split the city in two. It

caused a brief civil war, at the end of which the rival factions literally split the city in two. It

caused a brief civil war, at the end of which the rival factions literally split the city in two. It

caused a brief civil war, at the end of which the rival factions literally split the city in two. It

maintains a bitter rivalry with its estranged sister city, but is known for the finest tapas in the

maintains a bitter rivalry with its estranged sister city, but is known for the finest tapas in the

maintains a bitter rivalry with its estranged sister city, but is known for the finest tapas in the

maintains a bitter rivalry with its estranged sister city, but is known for the finest tapas in the

maintains a bitter rivalry with its estranged sister city, but is known for the finest tapas in the

Hunting Ground.

130

Wagenhafn

A mobile town of the Second Traction Boom, founded by the old Wagensvolk nomad dynasty,

A mobile town of the Second Traction Boom, founded by the old Wagensvolk nomad dynasty,

who claim to have maintained a manufacturing empire based around the fortress of Wolfsburg

who claim to have maintained a manufacturing empire based around the fortress of Wolfsburg

since before the Sixty Minute War. Wagenhafn bugs were the favoured intra-city vehicle and

since before the Sixty Minute War. Wagenhafn bugs were the favoured intra-city vehicle and

motorized status symbol of the great and good during the tenth century TE.

motorized status symbol of the great and good during the tenth century TE.

Raft Cities

The first raft “cities” were built by the inhabitants of fishing villages and harbour towns on the

The first raft “cities” were built by the inhabitants of fishing villages and harbour towns on the

The first raft “cities” were built by the inhabitants of fishing villages and harbour towns on the

western coast of the Hunting Ground. To escape from the rampaging likes of London and Paris

western coast of the Hunting Ground. To escape from the rampaging likes of London and Paris

western coast of the Hunting Ground. To escape from the rampaging likes of London and Paris

during the Second Traction Boom, they shifted their homes and belongings aboard boats, barges

during the Second Traction Boom, they shifted their homes and belongings aboard boats, barges

and large, hastily assembled rafts and simply took to the sea. As the years went by and the

and large, hastily assembled rafts and simply took to the sea. As the years went by and the

Traction craze showed no sign of fading, these floating communities enlarged and improved

Traction craze showed no sign of fading, these floating communities enlarged and improved

their rafts, added engines and extra tiers, and began to make the most of their new lives. Some

their rafts, added engines and extra tiers, and began to make the most of their new lives. Some

became predators, attacking and annexing smaller, weaker rafts, and several of them played a

became predators, attacking and annexing smaller, weaker rafts, and several of them played a

part in the defeat of the Zagwan Deluge. Development of sea-going cities has always lagged

part in the defeat of the Zagwan Deluge. Development of sea-going cities has always lagged

behind that of the great land cities, but during the Golden Age many great raft cities appeared.

behind that of the great land cities, but during the Golden Age many great raft cities appeared.

Reykjavik

An Icelandic-speaking predator raft, it was the birthplace of the notorious air-pirate Red Loki,

An Icelandic-speaking predator raft, it was the birthplace of the notorious air-pirate Red Loki,

who later burned down part of it with rockets from his airship, the

who later burned down part of it with rockets from his airship, the

Anger Management Issues

.

(He is quoted as saying, “Stupid little town. Stupid little painted houses. If you’d been born here,

(He is quoted as saying, “Stupid little town. Stupid little painted houses. If you’d been born here,

you’d burn it down too!”) It was perhaps at this time that the map of “Vineland” drawn by the

you’d burn it down too!”) It was perhaps at this time that the map of “Vineland” drawn by the

explorer Snøri Ulvaesson went missing from Reykjavik’s library. The city never really recovered

explorer Snøri Ulvaesson went missing from Reykjavik’s library. The city never really recovered

from Red Loki’s raid, and in 998 TE it was caught making repairs while on shore and devoured

from Red Loki’s raid, and in 998 TE it was caught making repairs while on shore and devoured

from Red Loki’s raid, and in 998 TE it was caught making repairs while on shore and devoured

by the predator suburbs of Snørk and Wolverinehampton.

by the predator suburbs of Snørk and Wolverinehampton.

by the predator suburbs of Snørk and Wolverinehampton.

St Jean les Quatre-Mille Cheveaux

Very fine restaurants, but SUCH rude waiters. St Jean is ruled by culinary dynasties whose status

Very fine restaurants, but SUCH rude waiters. St Jean is ruled by culinary dynasties whose status

Very fine restaurants, but SUCH rude waiters. St Jean is ruled by culinary dynasties whose status

is determined by the height of their cylindrical white hats. Very picky about its prey, St Jean has

is determined by the height of their cylindrical white hats. Very picky about its prey, St Jean has

is determined by the height of their cylindrical white hats. Very picky about its prey, St Jean has

been known to cross the entire Hunting Ground to eat a city that has an abundance of a particular

been known to cross the entire Hunting Ground to eat a city that has an abundance of a particular

been known to cross the entire Hunting Ground to eat a city that has an abundance of a particular

ingredient, or whose inhabitants are known to tuck their napkins in properly and tip.

ingredient, or whose inhabitants are known to tuck their napkins in properly and tip.

ingredient, or whose inhabitants are known to tuck their napkins in properly and tip.

131

Marseilles

One of the earliest raft cities, the citizens of Marseilles fought bravely during the Zagwan

One of the earliest raft cities, the citizens of Marseilles fought bravely during the Zagwan

One of the earliest raft cities, the citizens of Marseilles fought bravely during the Zagwan

One of the earliest raft cities, the citizens of Marseilles fought bravely during the Zagwan

Deluge. The city’s finest hour came when it smashed through the pontoon bridge at the Pillars

Deluge. The city’s finest hour came when it smashed through the pontoon bridge at the Pillars

Deluge. The city’s finest hour came when it smashed through the pontoon bridge at the Pillars

Deluge. The city’s finest hour came when it smashed through the pontoon bridge at the Pillars

of Hercules and, in the words of the Marseillaise, saved Europa and Tractionism. In later years

of Hercules and, in the words of the Marseillaise, saved Europa and Tractionism. In later years

of Hercules and, in the words of the Marseillaise, saved Europa and Tractionism. In later years

of Hercules and, in the words of the Marseillaise, saved Europa and Tractionism. In later years

it travelled widely, circumnavigating the globe several times in search of trade and prey. In 986

it travelled widely, circumnavigating the globe several times in search of trade and prey. In 986

it travelled widely, circumnavigating the globe several times in search of trade and prey. In 986

TE it devoured several Anti-Tractionist harbours on the northern coast of Australia, and was

TE it devoured several Anti-Tractionist harbours on the northern coast of Australia, and was

TE it devoured several Anti-Tractionist harbours on the northern coast of Australia, and was

sunk soon afterwards when an Anti-Tractionist infiltrator planted a bomb in its engine district.

sunk soon afterwards when an Anti-Tractionist infiltrator planted a bomb in its engine district.

sunk soon afterwards when an Anti-Tractionist infiltrator planted a bomb in its engine district.

Dun Laoghaire

A rather fishy raft city ruled by powerful herring magnates, Dun Laoghaire travels from

A rather fishy raft city ruled by powerful herring magnates, Dun Laoghaire travels from

A rather fishy raft city ruled by powerful herring magnates, Dun Laoghaire travels from

fishing-bank to fishing-bank all over the North Atlantic, sometimes venturing as far as the

fishing-bank to fishing-bank all over the North Atlantic, sometimes venturing as far as the

fishing-bank to fishing-bank all over the North Atlantic, sometimes venturing as far as the

Newfoundland Banks, shockingly close to the Dead Continent. It engages in fierce rivalries with

Newfoundland Banks, shockingly close to the Dead Continent. It engages in fierce rivalries with

Newfoundland Banks, shockingly close to the Dead Continent. It engages in fierce rivalries with

other fishing cities, and some dark rumours claim that it was Dun Laoghaire’s saboteurs rather

other fishing cities, and some dark rumours claim that it was Dun Laoghaire’s saboteurs rather

other fishing cities, and some dark rumours claim that it was Dun Laoghaire’s saboteurs rather

than pack ice which caused the sinking of Grimsby.

than pack ice which caused the sinking of Grimsby.

132

Perfume Harbour

One of the world’s largest raft cities. Thaddeus Valentine, in his book

Further Adventures of a

Practical Historian

, wrote of it, “To the traveller approaching by air, Perfume Harbour seems a

, wrote of it, “To the traveller approaching by air, Perfume Harbour seems a

perfect faeryland. The tops of hundreds of pagodas and docking towers rise from a sea of cloud,

perfect faeryland. The tops of hundreds of pagodas and docking towers rise from a sea of cloud,

each brightly painted and elaborately carved, and linked by a thousand delicate, swaying bridges.

each brightly painted and elaborately carved, and linked by a thousand delicate, swaying bridges.

Down below, however, it is another story; for the cloud is engine-smog, and in its shadow the

Down below, however, it is another story; for the cloud is engine-smog, and in its shadow the

city’s overcrowded deck plates are a warren of dank alleyways, warehouses and greasy go downs.”

city’s overcrowded deck plates are a warren of dank alleyways, warehouses and greasy go downs.”

Sensible visitors stayed aloft, among the docking-towers and high-level teahouses from where,

Sensible visitors stayed aloft, among the docking-towers and high-level teahouses from where,

Sensible visitors stayed aloft, among the docking-towers and high-level teahouses from where,

Sensible visitors stayed aloft, among the docking-towers and high-level teahouses from where,

each autumn, the Austral Air-Rally set off.

133

Grimsby

Biggest and fiercest of the North Atlantic predator-rafts, Grimsby was
mourned by absolutely nobody when it was sunk by pack ice during the

Iron Winter of 919/920 TE. But strange rumours from the north suggest
that its sunken hulk is not entirely abandoned, and that air-tight
sections of the city have become the secret lair of sub-aquatic ne’er-do-wells.

The Wider World

Greenland

Known to the navigators of ice cities as “the great North Atlantic speedbump”, this mountainous,

Known to the navigators of ice cities as “the great North Atlantic speedbump”, this mountainous,

impassable region is home only to glaciers and wandering bands of Snowmads. Why it is called

impassable region is home only to glaciers and wandering bands of Snowmads. Why it is called

“Greenland” has long been a point of contention among historians. (One Ancient tradition tells

“Greenland” has long been a point of contention among historians. (One Ancient tradition tells

that it was named after “Green Out of Scritti-Politti”, but exactly what this means is unclear.)

that it was named after “Green Out of Scritti-Politti”, but exactly what this means is unclear.)

Tannhauser Mountains

A range of young volcanoes which roughly mark the border between the Frost Barrens and the Ice

Waste. Whether their origins are natural, or whether they were created by one of the unimaginably

powerful super-weapons of the Ancients, is still unknown. The passes through them are

notoriously dangerous as they are the hunting grounds of fierce hunter-killer suburbs and lair

of air-pirates.

Snowmads

A catch-all term for the people who live on the High Ice in a variety of skate-towns, husky

A catch-all term for the people who live on the High Ice in a variety of skate-towns, husky

sledges and aërosani. Subsisting by whaling, trading, ice-fishing and scavenging the Old-Tech

sledges and aërosani. Subsisting by whaling, trading, ice-fishing and scavenging the Old-Tech

and frozen fatberg slivers that can be found among the pack ice, they are sometimes the trading

and frozen fatberg slivers that can be found among the pack ice, they are sometimes the trading

partners, sometimes the prey of the fast-moving ice towns.

partners, sometimes the prey of the fast-moving ice towns.

partners, sometimes the prey of the fast-moving ice towns.

partners, sometimes the prey of the fast-moving ice towns.

138

Ghost Crabs

One of the legends of the north, these mysterious creatures are sometimes glimpsed scuttling

One of the legends of the north, these mysterious creatures are sometimes glimpsed scuttling

One of the legends of the north, these mysterious creatures are sometimes glimpsed scuttling

One of the legends of the north, these mysterious creatures are sometimes glimpsed scuttling

across the High Ice by lookouts aboard far-wandering ice cities. House-high spidery things, they

across the High Ice by lookouts aboard far-wandering ice cities. House-high spidery things, they

across the High Ice by lookouts aboard far-wandering ice cities. House-high spidery things, they

across the High Ice by lookouts aboard far-wandering ice cities. House-high spidery things, they

across the High Ice by lookouts aboard far-wandering ice cities. House-high spidery things, they

are said to emerge through circular holes in the ice-sheet. Seeing them is an omen of bad luck,

are said to emerge through circular holes in the ice-sheet. Seeing them is an omen of bad luck,

are said to emerge through circular holes in the ice-sheet. Seeing them is an omen of bad luck,

are said to emerge through circular holes in the ice-sheet. Seeing them is an omen of bad luck,

often heralding the loss of all your valuables. Nimrod Pennyroyal gave a surprising account of

often heralding the loss of all your valuables. Nimrod Pennyroyal gave a surprising account of

often heralding the loss of all your valuables. Nimrod Pennyroyal gave a surprising account of

them in his book

Predator’s Gold

.

Rogues’ Roost

This bleak north Atlantic island is little more than a rock covered in bird droppings, jutting from

This bleak north Atlantic island is little more than a rock covered in bird droppings, jutting from

This bleak north Atlantic island is little more than a rock covered in bird droppings, jutting from

an icy sea. It housed an airbase built by the pirate Red Loki, whose blood-red airships terrorized

an icy sea. It housed an airbase built by the pirate Red Loki, whose blood-red airships terrorized

an icy sea. It housed an airbase built by the pirate Red Loki, whose blood-red airships terrorized

the smaller towns of the north, and even raided Arkangel and the Spitzbergen Static. Around

the smaller towns of the north, and even raided Arkangel and the Spitzbergen Static. Around

1008 TE, a fanatical group of hardline Anti-Tractionists attacked Rogues’ Roost, defeated Loki

1008 TE, a fanatical group of hardline Anti-Tractionists attacked Rogues’ Roost, defeated Loki

and his pirate crew and occupied the base. Various rumours have it that the station is now used

and his pirate crew and occupied the base. Various rumours have it that the station is now used

for air-patrols tracking the movements of raft cities, for mysterious Old-Tech research projects,

for air-patrols tracking the movements of raft cities, for mysterious Old-Tech research projects,

or as a bird observatory tracking the migratory seabirds of the north Atlantic.

or as a bird observatory tracking the migratory seabirds of the north Atlantic.

Arkangel

The Hammer of the High Ice; Scourge of the North; Devourer of the Spitzbergen Static; one of

The Hammer of the High Ice; Scourge of the North; Devourer of the Spitzbergen Static; one of

The Hammer of the High Ice; Scourge of the North; Devourer of the Spitzbergen Static; one of

the older Traction Cities, founded by the remnants of the Arkhangelsk nomad empire after the

the older Traction Cities, founded by the remnants of the Arkhangelsk nomad empire after the

the older Traction Cities, founded by the remnants of the Arkhangelsk nomad empire after the

Battle of Three Dry Ships. A merciless hunter, it scoffed at the code of Municipal Darwinism and

Battle of Three Dry Ships. A merciless hunter, it scoffed at the code of Municipal Darwinism and

Battle of Three Dry Ships. A merciless hunter, it scoffed at the code of Municipal Darwinism and

enslaved all the inhabitants of the towns it caught. Captive suburbs were stripped down and used

enslaved all the inhabitants of the towns it caught. Captive suburbs were stripped down and used

enslaved all the inhabitants of the towns it caught. Captive suburbs were stripped down and used

as drones to scout ahead of it as it skated across the High Ice. Within the city’s insulated armour,

as drones to scout ahead of it as it skated across the High Ice. Within the city’s insulated armour,

as drones to scout ahead of it as it skated across the High Ice. Within the city’s insulated armour,

life was equally unforgiving, dominated by a few great corporate families such as the Masgards,

life was equally unforgiving, dominated by a few great corporate families such as the Masgards,

life was equally unforgiving, dominated by a few great corporate families such as the Masgards,

the Stanilands and the Kaels.

PIOTR MASGARD

The youngest son of Mikhail Masgard, the

The youngest son of Mikhail Masgard, the

The youngest son of Mikhail Masgard, the

The youngest son of Mikhail Masgard, the

Direktor of Arkangel. Around 1008 TE

Direktor of Arkangel. Around 1008 TE

Direktor of Arkangel. Around 1008 TE

Direktor of Arkangel. Around 1008 TE

Direktor of Arkangel. Around 1008 TE

he gained a reputation for cruising with a

he gained a reputation for cruising with a

he gained a reputation for cruising with a

notorious crew of aëro-hooligans known

notorious crew of aëro-hooligans known

notorious crew of aëro-hooligans known

as the “Huntsmen of Arkangel”, offering

as the “Huntsmen of Arkangel”, offering

as the “Huntsmen of Arkangel”, offering

predator’s gold and even, rumour said,

predator’s gold and even, rumour said,

predator’s gold and even, rumour said,

hijacking smaller cities, overpowering their

hijacking smaller cities, overpowering their

hijacking smaller cities, overpowering their

inhabitants and driving them straight into

inhabitants and driving them straight into

inhabitants and driving them straight into

the jaws of Arkangel. Masgard and his crew

the jaws of Arkangel. Masgard and his crew

the jaws of Arkangel. Masgard and his crew

were believed to have been killed by the

were believed to have been killed by the

were believed to have been killed by the

heroic adventurer Nimrod Pennyroyal.

heroic adventurer Nimrod Pennyroyal.

heroic adventurer Nimrod Pennyroyal.

Nothing has been heard of them since the

Nothing has been heard of them since the

Nothing has been heard of them since the

Nothing has been heard of them since the

destruction of Arkangel.

destruction of Arkangel.

140

Anchorage

A small trading city, one of the most famous ice

cities, and – until its disappearance in 1009 TE – the

last known remnant of lost America. Anchorage

legends tell of its founder, a schoolgirl named Dolly

Rasmussen, who is said to have lived in the original

Anchorage, an Ancient static settlement in North

America. Haunted by premonitions of a great

disaster, she persuaded some of her townspeople

to leave the city and camp in the hills outside, from

where they watched their home vaporized as the

Sixty Minute War broke out. A long and frankly

boring song-cycle tells of their wanderings in the

years which followed, until they finally built a

new city on an island in the north Pacific. They

packed their bags again during the Third Traction

Boom, transforming Anchorage into one of the

swiftest and most beautiful of all the ice cities.

Unusually it has been ruled throughout its history

by women, the Rasmussen Margravines, all of

whom claim descent from Dolly Rasmussen. A

trading city, using its jaws only to gather ice for its

boilers, it is powered by the mysterious Old-Tech

Scabious Spheres and administered day by day

by a Steering Committee. In 1009 TE the city was

struck by a plague which killed much of its

population, and most of the survivors fled to other

cities. Led by its last Margravine on a lunatic chase

to the Dead Continent, Anchorage was last seen

drifting across the Atlantic on a broken sheet of ice,

and is presumed destroyed.

The Tin Book
of Anchorage

One of many surviving mysteries of the Ancient world. Wormwold’s

One of many surviving mysteries of the Ancient world. Wormwold’s

Historia Anchoragia

recounts that, shortly after the Sixty Minute War, the refugees who were later to refound the city

recounts that, shortly after the Sixty Minute War, the refugees who were later to refound the city

of Anchorage encountered a wrecked submarine of the American Empire, whose only surviving

of Anchorage encountered a wrecked submarine of the American Empire, whose only surviving

crewmember gave a document to the First Margravine Dolly Rasmussen. Although written in a

crewmember gave a document to the First Margravine Dolly Rasmussen. Although written in a

code as yet undeciphered, multiple references to a god named “Odin” suggest that it is some sort

code as yet undeciphered, multiple references to a god named “Odin” suggest that it is some sort

of a religious tract, possibly from the Asgardian Revival which occurred in the last days of the

of a religious tract, possibly from the Asgardian Revival which occurred in the last days of the

American Empire.

144

Freya

Rasmussen

Last of the House of Rasmussen, the

Last of the House of Rasmussen, the

Last of the House of Rasmussen, the

Last of the House of Rasmussen, the

sixteen-year-old Freya had Margravineship

sixteen-year-old Freya had Margravineship

sixteen-year-old Freya had Margravineship

unexpectedly thrust upon her by the deaths

unexpectedly thrust upon her by the deaths

unexpectedly thrust upon her by the deaths

unexpectedly thrust upon her by the deaths

of her parents. Although she survived the

of her parents. Although she survived the

of her parents. Although she survived the

plague and the decline of her city, Nimrod

plague and the decline of her city, Nimrod

Pennyroyal’s account of the final days of

Pennyroyal’s account of the final days of

Anchorage portray her as becoming

Anchorage portray her as becoming

deranged by loss. Claiming to be inspired

deranged by loss. Claiming to be inspired

by the voices of her ancestors, she insisted

by the voices of her ancestors, she insisted

on driving her city across the High Ice

on driving her city across the High Ice

to America, a suicidal dream which her

to America, a suicidal dream which her

few surviving subjects loyally attempted to

few surviving subjects loyally attempted to

make reality.

145

Predator’s Gold

A slang term for the bounty sometimes paid by Traction Cities

to aviators, in return for information about the movements and

whereabouts of smaller towns. Decent aviators, of course, would

have nothing to do with this unsavoury business. However,

it has grown increasingly common in recent years, leading

to the air-trade being regarded with distrust, and many cities

refusing landing rights to any airship not licensed by their own

merchants’ guild.

The Northern

Hunting Ground

The wide wastes of Siberia, with abundant fast-growing birch trees for fuel and flat steppe suitable

The wide wastes of Siberia, with abundant fast-growing birch trees for fuel and flat steppe suitable

The wide wastes of Siberia, with abundant fast-growing birch trees for fuel and flat steppe suitable

The wide wastes of Siberia, with abundant fast-growing birch trees for fuel and flat steppe suitable

for high-speed city movements, have seen many of the most memorable city-chases of the Traction

for high-speed city movements, have seen many of the most memorable city-chases of the Traction

for high-speed city movements, have seen many of the most memorable city-chases of the Traction

for high-speed city movements, have seen many of the most memorable city-chases of the Traction

Era, as well as city-races and city-jousting in earlier days. However, the extreme weather of both

Era, as well as city-races and city-jousting in earlier days. However, the extreme weather of both

Era, as well as city-races and city-jousting in earlier days. However, the extreme weather of both

Era, as well as city-races and city-jousting in earlier days. However, the extreme weather of both

Era, as well as city-races and city-jousting in earlier days. However, the extreme weather of both

the harsh winters and the spring

rasputitsa

rasputitsa

, which turns much of the northern Hunting Ground

, which turns much of the northern Hunting Ground

, which turns much of the northern Hunting Ground

into an impassable boggy mush, mean that the largest predators only visit in the summer for the

into an impassable boggy mush, mean that the largest predators only visit in the summer for the

into an impassable boggy mush, mean that the largest predators only visit in the summer for the

into an impassable boggy mush, mean that the largest predators only visit in the summer for the

hunting season, and its year-round inhabitants have developed peculiar adaptations.

hunting season, and its year-round inhabitants have developed peculiar adaptations.

hunting season, and its year-round inhabitants have developed peculiar adaptations.

hunting season, and its year-round inhabitants have developed peculiar adaptations.

WINTER

If expecting a particularly harsh winter, many cities build winter-domes from blocks of ice to

If expecting a particularly harsh winter, many cities build winter-domes from blocks of ice to

protect their upper decks, shut down their engines and go into a form of hibernation. This

protect their upper decks, shut down their engines and go into a form of hibernation. This

also serves as camouflage, known to the locals as

also serves as camouflage, known to the locals as

maskirovka

maskirovka

. However, this is more common

. However, this is more common

on the High Ice north of the Tannhauser Mountains; igloo-towns are a rarer sight in the

on the High Ice north of the Tannhauser Mountains; igloo-towns are a rarer sight in the

on the High Ice north of the Tannhauser Mountains; igloo-towns are a rarer sight in the

Hunting Ground since devious officials in the Direktorate of Arkangel had the idea of using

Hunting Ground since devious officials in the Direktorate of Arkangel had the idea of using

Hunting Ground since devious officials in the Direktorate of Arkangel had the idea of using

air-scouts to sweep for suspicious hummocks.

air-scouts to sweep for suspicious hummocks.

148

SPRING

Spring rains turn most of the Hunting Ground to deep mud. Northern cities hatch from their

Spring rains turn most of the Hunting Ground to deep mud. Northern cities hatch from their

Spring rains turn most of the Hunting Ground to deep mud. Northern cities hatch from their

melting igloos; during the winter they have fitted screw-drive outriggers, and mud-handling

melting igloos; during the winter they have fitted screw-drive outriggers, and mud-handling

melting igloos; during the winter they have fitted screw-drive outriggers, and mud-handling

melting igloos; during the winter they have fitted screw-drive outriggers, and mud-handling

melting igloos; during the winter they have fitted screw-drive outriggers, and mud-handling

melting igloos; during the winter they have fitted screw-drive outriggers, and mud-handling

tracks fitted with cleats or strakes, or widened with grousers.

tracks fitted with cleats or strakes, or widened with grousers.

tracks fitted with cleats or strakes, or widened with grousers.

tracks fitted with cleats or strakes, or widened with grousers.

SUMMER

The ground is dry, and even the largest Traction Cities are free to hare about the northern

The ground is dry, and even the largest Traction Cities are free to hare about the northern

The ground is dry, and even the largest Traction Cities are free to hare about the northern

Hunting Ground, snapping up local cities slowed by their spring modifications. In older days

Hunting Ground, snapping up local cities slowed by their spring modifications. In older days

Hunting Ground, snapping up local cities slowed by their spring modifications. In older days

city-races such as the Lightfoot Cup, the Dodecamarathon and the Motorschmelzer were

city-races such as the Lightfoot Cup, the Dodecamarathon and the Motorschmelzer were

city-races such as the Lightfoot Cup, the Dodecamarathon and the Motorschmelzer were

commonly held on the Siberian plain.

commonly held on the Siberian plain.

commonly held on the Siberian plain.

commonly held on the Siberian plain.

AUTUMN

Non-natives migrate south and west to warmer hunting grounds. Those ice-cities planning on

Non-natives migrate south and west to warmer hunting grounds. Those ice-cities planning on

Non-natives migrate south and west to warmer hunting grounds. Those ice-cities planning on

sticking around lay on bigger snow tracks, fur coats and vast stocks of vodka and antifreeze.

sticking around lay on bigger snow tracks, fur coats and vast stocks of vodka and antifreeze.

sticking around lay on bigger snow tracks, fur coats and vast stocks of vodka and antifreeze.

149

The Middle Sea

At the beginning of the Traction Era the Middle Sea was a famed “Zagwan pond”, controlled

At the beginning of the Traction Era the Middle Sea was a famed “Zagwan pond”, controlled

At the beginning of the Traction Era the Middle Sea was a famed “Zagwan pond”, controlled

by the war-galleys of Zagwa and its allies. With the collapse of Zagwan power, a flourishing

by the war-galleys of Zagwa and its allies. With the collapse of Zagwan power, a flourishing

by the war-galleys of Zagwa and its allies. With the collapse of Zagwan power, a flourishing

ecosystem of motorized fishing villages and small-time trading rafts appeared, and was then

ecosystem of motorized fishing villages and small-time trading rafts appeared, and was then

ecosystem of motorized fishing villages and small-time trading rafts appeared, and was then

eaten up by larger raft cities like Marseilles and Stamboul. Eventually, some of the bigger trading

eaten up by larger raft cities like Marseilles and Stamboul. Eventually, some of the bigger trading

eaten up by larger raft cities like Marseilles and Stamboul. Eventually, some of the bigger trading

towns grew so weary of week-long stern-chases with these monsters that they lumbered ashore

towns grew so weary of week-long stern-chases with these monsters that they lumbered ashore

towns grew so weary of week-long stern-chases with these monsters that they lumbered ashore

and gnawed their way through the Isthmus of Suez into the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

and gnawed their way through the Isthmus of Suez into the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

and gnawed their way through the Isthmus of Suez into the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.

Vyborg

To protect their city from the fierce icicle-storms of the Iron Winter of 919 TE, the Ingenery of

To protect their city from the fierce icicle-storms of the Iron Winter of 919 TE, the Ingenery of

Vyborg took the unusual step of building a winter-dome of ice reinforced with frozen wood pulp,

Vyborg took the unusual step of building a winter-dome of ice reinforced with frozen wood pulp,

based on an Ancient recipe. Although widely mocked as a “cardboard city”, the shell astonished

based on an Ancient recipe. Although widely mocked as a “cardboard city”, the shell astonished

all in the following False Spring when the jaws of Kronstadt simply broke on Vyborg’s dome,

all in the following False Spring when the jaws of Kronstadt simply broke on Vyborg’s dome,

allowing the town to escape.

However, the immensely strong shell became noticeably soggier in the thaws that followed, and

However, the immensely strong shell became noticeably soggier in the thaws that followed, and

eventually disintegrated in 933 TE during a chase with Novy Novy Sad, leaving Vyborg upended

eventually disintegrated in 933 TE during a chase with Novy Novy Sad, leaving Vyborg upended

and helpless in a vast confusion of nasty, woody slush. Several of the surviving Ingenery later

and helpless in a vast confusion of nasty, woody slush. Several of the surviving Ingenery later

emigrated and built the storm-hulls of Vossevangen and Schwimmstadt Emden, although their

emigrated and built the storm-hulls of Vossevangen and Schwimmstadt Emden, although their

emigrated and built the storm-hulls of Vossevangen and Schwimmstadt Emden, although their

plans to rebuild Vyborg in the form of a vast ice-pulp raft city remain unrealized.

plans to rebuild Vyborg in the form of a vast ice-pulp raft city remain unrealized.

plans to rebuild Vyborg in the form of a vast ice-pulp raft city remain unrealized.

150

151

Mayda

Mayda-at-the-World’s-End is one of the odd little survivors of the Black Centuries. A quiet

Mayda-at-the-World’s-End is one of the odd little survivors of the Black Centuries. A quiet

Mayda-at-the-World’s-End is one of the odd little survivors of the Black Centuries. A quiet

outpost of technosceptic Anti-Tractionism, it has survived through the greatest excesses

outpost of technosceptic Anti-Tractionism, it has survived through the greatest excesses

outpost of technosceptic Anti-Tractionism, it has survived through the greatest excesses

of Europan Tractionism through the two happy qualities of lacking the wealth to make an

of Europan Tractionism through the two happy qualities of lacking the wealth to make an

appealing meal, and being built inside a huge crater. Although its fishing fleets are often eaten

appealing meal, and being built inside a huge crater. Although its fishing fleets are often eaten

appealing meal, and being built inside a huge crater. Although its fishing fleets are often eaten

appealing meal, and being built inside a huge crater. Although its fishing fleets are often eaten

by passing raft suburbs, it manages a decent living as air-caravanserai, capitalizing on tourists

by passing raft suburbs, it manages a decent living as air-caravanserai, capitalizing on tourists

by passing raft suburbs, it manages a decent living as air-caravanserai, capitalizing on tourists

by passing raft suburbs, it manages a decent living as air-caravanserai, capitalizing on tourists

interested in its funicular hotels and high-quality seafood bistros.

interested in its funicular hotels and high-quality seafood bistros.

interested in its funicular hotels and high-quality seafood bistros.

interested in its funicular hotels and high-quality seafood bistros.

Mayda is possibly best known as the birthplace of Arlo Thursday, and curious tourists will find

Mayda is possibly best known as the birthplace of Arlo Thursday, and curious tourists will find

Mayda is possibly best known as the birthplace of Arlo Thursday, and curious tourists will find

no shortage of guides happy to show them the house where Thursday was born, the place where

no shortage of guides happy to show them the house where Thursday was born, the place where

no shortage of guides happy to show them the house where Thursday was born, the place where

he first talked to the birds, and the cliff edge where he took his first step into the air. Thursday’s

he first talked to the birds, and the cliff edge where he took his first step into the air. Thursday’s

he first talked to the birds, and the cliff edge where he took his first step into the air. Thursday’s

Children, the minor cult who revere Arlo as a god, generally attempt to make at least one

Children, the minor cult who revere Arlo as a god, generally attempt to make at least one

Children, the minor cult who revere Arlo as a god, generally attempt to make at least one

pilgrimage to the town in their lifetimes, and devout Children are known to shout “Mayda!

pilgrimage to the town in their lifetimes, and devout Children are known to shout “Mayda!

Mayda!” in their dying breaths, or when they think their airship is about to crash.

Mayda!” in their dying breaths, or when they think their airship is about to crash.

The famed Angels of Mayda have lost their legendary ability to speak, but they maintain their

The famed Angels of Mayda have lost their legendary ability to speak, but they maintain their

equally legendary love of snacks and powers of irritation.

equally legendary love of snacks and powers of irritation.

Too large to follow their prey through this reborn Suez Canal, the big predator rafts set off in

Too large to follow their prey through this reborn Suez Canal, the big predator rafts set off in

Too large to follow their prey through this reborn Suez Canal, the big predator rafts set off in

Too large to follow their prey through this reborn Suez Canal, the big predator rafts set off in

search of new hunting grounds in the Atlantic, leaving the Middle Sea to pleasure cities such as

search of new hunting grounds in the Atlantic, leaving the Middle Sea to pleasure cities such as

search of new hunting grounds in the Atlantic, leaving the Middle Sea to pleasure cities such as

search of new hunting grounds in the Atlantic, leaving the Middle Sea to pleasure cities such as

search of new hunting grounds in the Atlantic, leaving the Middle Sea to pleasure cities such as

search of new hunting grounds in the Atlantic, leaving the Middle Sea to pleasure cities such as

search of new hunting grounds in the Atlantic, leaving the Middle Sea to pleasure cities such as

Brighton, Venice and Magaluf.

Brighton, Venice and Magaluf.

Venice

The city’s ruling organization, the iron-fisted Consiglio del Turismo, would prefer visitors

The city’s ruling organization, the iron-fisted Consiglio del Turismo, would prefer visitors

referred to their city as “Serenissima”, but admit that “Venice” is a step up from the elegant

referred to their city as “Serenissima”, but admit that “Venice” is a step up from the elegant

raft town’s old nickname, Doge City. A high-class tourist resort known for its masked balls,

raft town’s old nickname, Doge City. A high-class tourist resort known for its masked balls,

gorgeous courtesans and exceptional cuttlefish-ink risotto, the Consiglio encourages high

gorgeous courtesans and exceptional cuttlefish-ink risotto, the Consiglio encourages high

standards through a rigorous programme of inspections and encouraging visitors to

standards through a rigorous programme of inspections and encouraging visitors to

anonymously post negative restaurant reviews through the lion-mouthed letterboxes of

anonymously post negative restaurant reviews through the lion-mouthed letterboxes of

Consiglio headquarters. Venice’s famous bronze horses were stolen in 886 TE by the famous

Consiglio headquarters. Venice’s famous bronze horses were stolen in 886 TE by the famous

air-pirate band the Red Pigs, and through a convoluted series of transactions ended up in the

air-pirate band the Red Pigs, and through a convoluted series of transactions ended up in the

Museum of Barbarian Cultures in Tienjing.

Museum of Barbarian Cultures in Tienjing.

Niccolo TORNATORE

Venice in the early tenth century TE had fallen on hard times, a grotty gambling resort and

Venice in the early tenth century TE had fallen on hard times, a grotty gambling resort and

floating slave market more commonly known as Doge City. All this was turned around by the

floating slave market more commonly known as Doge City. All this was turned around by the

famous Tornatore, an energetic young man of mysterious origins. Tornatore and his followers

famous Tornatore, an energetic young man of mysterious origins. Tornatore and his followers

seized power in 941 TE, overthrowing the old Council of Four Hundred and Forty-One and

seized power in 941 TE, overthrowing the old Council of Four Hundred and Forty-One and

replacing them with an oligarchy known initially as Turisma Venezia, later to become the

replacing them with an oligarchy known initially as Turisma Venezia, later to become the

152

Autoschloss Runkelstein/

Trazione-Castel Roncolo

A small, ancient, hill-climbing proto-city.

A small, ancient, hill-climbing proto-city.

Apart from some minor engine upgrades,

Apart from some minor engine upgrades,

Runkelstein/Roncolo has barely changed

Runkelstein/Roncolo has barely changed

from its first Tractionization in 124 TE,

from its first Tractionization in 124 TE,

since which power has alternated between

since which power has alternated between

its two main ruling knightly families, the

its two main ruling knightly families, the

Sigismunds and the Isonzos. Depending

Sigismunds and the Isonzos. Depending

on which family is currently in power, the

on which family is currently in power, the

city has a different name, flag and official

city has a different name, flag and official

language. It is regarded with bemusement

language. It is regarded with bemusement

and a certain affectionate indulgence by the

and a certain affectionate indulgence by the

fierce modern Traction Cities of the Po valley.

fierce modern Traction Cities of the Po valley.

Consiglio. Tornatore instituted a rigorous

Consiglio. Tornatore instituted a rigorous

Consiglio. Tornatore instituted a rigorous

programme of entertainment reform, throwing

programme of entertainment reform, throwing

programme of entertainment reform, throwing

political dissenters and mimes into the Middle

political dissenters and mimes into the Middle

political dissenters and mimes into the Middle

Sea without trial, rebuilding the famous

Sea without trial, rebuilding the famous

Sea without trial, rebuilding the famous

Campanile, and successfully attracting many

Campanile, and successfully attracting many

Campanile, and successfully attracting many

of the most prestigious art exhibitions of the

of the most prestigious art exhibitions of the

of the most prestigious art exhibitions of the

Hunting Ground. All this came to the extreme

Hunting Ground. All this came to the extreme

Hunting Ground. All this came to the extreme

irritation and dismay of Brighton, which

irritation and dismay of Brighton, which

irritation and dismay of Brighton, which

has seen many of its wealthiest and most

has seen many of its wealthiest and most

has seen many of its wealthiest and most

fashionable visitors stolen by the bright lights

fashionable visitors stolen by the bright lights

fashionable visitors stolen by the bright lights

and relatively clean alleys of Venice.

153

Brighton

A scruffy fishing town which took to the sea early in the Second Traction Boom. It spent the next

A scruffy fishing town which took to the sea early in the Second Traction Boom. It spent the next

A scruffy fishing town which took to the sea early in the Second Traction Boom. It spent the next

few decades creeping around the coasts of the Hunting Ground, avoiding larger rafts. With the

few decades creeping around the coasts of the Hunting Ground, avoiding larger rafts. With the

few decades creeping around the coasts of the Hunting Ground, avoiding larger rafts. With the

arrival of Traction’s Golden Age it reinvented itself as a pleasure resort and holiday destination.

arrival of Traction’s Golden Age it reinvented itself as a pleasure resort and holiday destination.

arrival of Traction’s Golden Age it reinvented itself as a pleasure resort and holiday destination.

Visitors from other cities flocked to its theatres, concert halls and amusement arcades, and as it

Visitors from other cities flocked to its theatres, concert halls and amusement arcades, and as it

Visitors from other cities flocked to its theatres, concert halls and amusement arcades, and as it

Visitors from other cities flocked to its theatres, concert halls and amusement arcades, and as it

grew larger and wealthier it began making long “cruises” into the Middle Sea and down the west

grew larger and wealthier it began making long “cruises” into the Middle Sea and down the west

grew larger and wealthier it began making long “cruises” into the Middle Sea and down the west

coast of Africa. It is home to many legendary artists and entertainers, and was the birthplace of

coast of Africa. It is home to many legendary artists and entertainers, and was the birthplace of

coast of Africa. It is home to many legendary artists and entertainers, and was the birthplace of

renowned popular historian Nimrod Pennyroyal. Famous Brighton festivals include the Large

renowned popular historian Nimrod Pennyroyal. Famous Brighton festivals include the Large

renowned popular historian Nimrod Pennyroyal. Famous Brighton festivals include the Large

Hat Festival, Poskitt Week, and Mime-Baiting Day, although more highbrow artistic events such

Hat Festival, Poskitt Week, and Mime-Baiting Day, although more highbrow artistic events such

Hat Festival, Poskitt Week, and Mime-Baiting Day, although more highbrow artistic events such

as the Cheese Sculpture Biennale have discussed moving to Venice in recent years.

as the Cheese Sculpture Biennale have discussed moving to Venice in recent years.

as the Cheese Sculpture Biennale have discussed moving to Venice in recent years.

Cloud 9

A floating garden held above Brighton’s deckplate with a string of gasbags. Home to the mag-

A floating garden held above Brighton’s deckplate with a string of gasbags. Home to the mag-

A floating garden held above Brighton’s deckplate with a string of gasbags. Home to the mag-

A floating garden held above Brighton’s deckplate with a string of gasbags. Home to the mag-

nificently oniony Royal Pavilion, an Ancient pleasure palace which now serves as the Mayor’s

nificently oniony Royal Pavilion, an Ancient pleasure palace which now serves as the Mayor’s

nificently oniony Royal Pavilion, an Ancient pleasure palace which now serves as the Mayor’s

nificently oniony Royal Pavilion, an Ancient pleasure palace which now serves as the Mayor’s

official residence and private air-harbour. Open to commoners once a year, Brightonians are

official residence and private air-harbour. Open to commoners once a year, Brightonians are

official residence and private air-harbour. Open to commoners once a year, Brightonians are

official residence and private air-harbour. Open to commoners once a year, Brightonians are

justifiably proud of its authentic Shan Guonese and Indian

justifiably proud of its authentic Shan Guonese and Indian

justifiably proud of its authentic Shan Guonese and Indian

objets d’art

and tastefully restrained

and tastefully restrained

interior decor.

Moon Festival

Worship of the Moon seems to have been widespread during the Black Centuries, perhaps

Worship of the Moon seems to have been widespread during the Black Centuries, perhaps

Worship of the Moon seems to have been widespread during the Black Centuries, perhaps

because of a belief that people living there had survived the Sixty Minute War unscathed and

because of a belief that people living there had survived the Sixty Minute War unscathed and

because of a belief that people living there had survived the Sixty Minute War unscathed and

because of a belief that people living there had survived the Sixty Minute War unscathed and

would return to set things right (some historians believe that the Moon Goddess herself is

would return to set things right (some historians believe that the Moon Goddess herself is

would return to set things right (some historians believe that the Moon Goddess herself is

just a distorted folk-memory of the commander of a twenty-first century Lunar base). By the

just a distorted folk-memory of the commander of a twenty-first century Lunar base). By the

just a distorted folk-memory of the commander of a twenty-first century Lunar base). By the

beginning of the Traction Era the origins of the Festival were long forgotten, but it was still

beginning of the Traction Era the origins of the Festival were long forgotten, but it was still

beginning of the Traction Era the origins of the Festival were long forgotten, but it was still

celebrated in city and static alike, usually on or around the night of the first full moon of

celebrated in city and static alike, usually on or around the night of the first full moon of

celebrated in city and static alike, usually on or around the night of the first full moon of

autumn, when fireworks are set off, bonfires lit, and feasts and parties held.

autumn, when fireworks are set off, bonfires lit, and feasts and parties held.

autumn, when fireworks are set off, bonfires lit, and feasts and parties held.

155

Nimrod Pennyroyal

On March 2nd, 957 TE, at the height of a violent storm, a minor actress named Tilly Pennyroyal

On March 2nd, 957 TE, at the height of a violent storm, a minor actress named Tilly Pennyroyal

gave birth to a baby boy in a hamper behind the scenes of Brighton’s Marlborough Theatre. Who

gave birth to a baby boy in a hamper behind the scenes of Brighton’s Marlborough Theatre. Who

the child’s father was, history does not record. Miss Pennyroyal was known to have been friendly

the child’s father was, history does not record. Miss Pennyroyal was known to have been friendly

with an itinerant unicyclist and novelty turnip-whittler who had appeared at the Marlborough

with an itinerant unicyclist and novelty turnip-whittler who had appeared at the Marlborough

the previous season under the name of “The Great Stupendo”, but she always hinted that her

the previous season under the name of “The Great Stupendo”, but she always hinted that her

little boy was of nobler blood, perhaps the son of some rich admirer from Cittamotore or Trieste.

little boy was of nobler blood, perhaps the son of some rich admirer from Cittamotore or Trieste.

Miss Pennyroyal worked hard to support the boy, and although they lived in humble one-

Miss Pennyroyal worked hard to support the boy, and although they lived in humble one-

room lodgings above a laundry, she saved enough to send him to the best schools in Brighton.

room lodgings above a laundry, she saved enough to send him to the best schools in Brighton.

However, the young Nimrod was expelled from each one in turn, for laziness, copying another

However, the young Nimrod was expelled from each one in turn, for laziness, copying another

boy’s work, theft, and general misbehaviour. By the age of sixteen there was no reputable school

boy’s work, theft, and general misbehaviour. By the age of sixteen there was no reputable school

aboard the city which would take him, and since he had no qualifications and no skills there was

aboard the city which would take him, and since he had no qualifications and no skills there was

nothing for it but to work in the theatre.

Of Nimrod’s brief career as an actor we have few records (some unkind biographers suggest that

Of Nimrod’s brief career as an actor we have few records (some unkind biographers suggest that

Of Nimrod’s brief career as an actor we have few records (some unkind biographers suggest that

he destroyed all copies of the reviews himself). However, his performance as the King of Tring

he destroyed all copies of the reviews himself). However, his performance as the King of Tring

he destroyed all copies of the reviews himself). However, his performance as the King of Tring

in EB Golightly’s

in EB Golightly’s

London Dawn

was described by the

Brighton Evening Palimpsest

Brighton Evening Palimpsest

as “ghastly”

Brighton Evening Palimpsest as “ghastly”Brighton Evening Palimpsest

and the production of Frances Thinge’s

Attraction and Anti-Traction

Attraction and Anti-Traction

Attraction and Anti-Traction

Attraction and Anti-Traction

, in which he played the

juvenile lead, set a new record for the city by closing after less than one performance. Unable to

juvenile lead, set a new record for the city by closing after less than one performance. Unable to

juvenile lead, set a new record for the city by closing after less than one performance. Unable to

find another part, Pennyroyal

turned to writing, and through-

out his twenties he supported

himself and his ageing mother

by penning a series of poorly-

received plays and off-colour

variety-hall sketches.

Then, in 987, soon after the

death of his beloved mother,

Pennyroyal vanished. Some

Pennyroyal vanished. Some

156

people imagined that he had thrown himself,

people imagined that he had thrown himself,

grief-stricken and penniless, into the sea. A

grief-stricken and penniless, into the sea. A

few of his friends went so far as to hold a

memorial service. But in the spring of 989

he returned, announcing that he had been

travelling in the South American continent,

travelling in the South American continent,

where he had had a series of remarkable

where he had had a series of remarkable

adventures. These he wrote down in the

adventures. These he wrote down in the

first of his bestselling books:

Ziggurat Cities

Ziggurat Cities

of the Serpent God

(Fewmet & Spraint,

(Fewmet & Spraint,

of the Serpent God (Fewmet & Spraint,of the Serpent God

989). (Reports that a man answering to

989). (Reports that a man answering to

Pennyroyal’s description had been living

Pennyroyal’s description had been living

aboard the city of Barcelona with an exotic

aboard the city of Barcelona with an exotic

aboard the city of Barcelona with an exotic

juggler named Concepción Zipsky were

juggler named Concepción Zipsky were

juggler named Concepción Zipsky were

dismissed as jealous rumours invented by

dismissed as jealous rumours invented by

dismissed as jealous rumours invented by

less successful writers.)

less successful writers.)

Over the next few years Pennyroyal made

Over the next few years Pennyroyal made

Over the next few years Pennyroyal made

Over the next few years Pennyroyal made

Over the next few years Pennyroyal made

several more journeys, and became known

several more journeys, and became known

several more journeys, and became known

several more journeys, and became known

as a controversial historian as well as a

as a controversial historian as well as a

as a controversial historian as well as a

as a controversial historian as well as a

as a controversial historian as well as a

daring explorer. His book on Ancient

daring explorer. His book on Ancient

daring explorer. His book on Ancient

daring explorer. His book on Ancient

refuse sites,

refuse sites,

Rubbish? Rubbish!

Rubbish? Rubbish!

(Fewmet &

(Fewmet &

Rubbish? Rubbish! (Fewmet &Rubbish? Rubbish!

Spraint, 1002) still divides historians, and his

Spraint, 1002) still divides historians, and his

Spraint, 1002) still divides historians, and his

Spraint, 1002) still divides historians, and his

account of discovering a green enclave on

account of discovering a green enclave on

account of discovering a green enclave on

the Dead Continent has never been

the Dead Continent has never been

the Dead Continent has never been

conclusively disproved.

For several decades Nimrod Pennyroyal was

For several decades Nimrod Pennyroyal was

For several decades Nimrod Pennyroyal was

always to be seen at the most fashionable

always to be seen at the most fashionable

always to be seen at the most fashionable

parties aboard the most fashionable cities,

parties aboard the most fashionable cities,

and his name was linked romantically with

and his name was linked romantically with

and his name was linked romantically with

some of the most beautiful and sophisticated

some of the most beautiful and sophisticated

some of the most beautiful and sophisticated

women of the age, including Minty Bapsnack,

women of the age, including Minty Bapsnack,

women of the age, including Minty Bapsnack,

women of the age, including Minty Bapsnack,

157

the Von Neumann twins, Lady Cressida

Flute-Murk and the Parisian track-plate

heiress Ryvita Baum. His application for

membership of London’s Guild of Historians

was rejected, but he has acquired a Master’s

Degree from the University of Cittamotore

(in exchange for a generous donation) and

now styles himself Professor Pennyroyal.

Fastitocalon

A possibly legendary aquatic predator, believed to have haunted the coasts of Danundaland and
the Hundred Islands, with rumoured sightings as far off as the Crater Sea and the Mediterranean.

Some accounts from castaways describe a form of “lure” – a small fake island, an imitation
whalespout, or a buoy with a loud annoying warning kazoo that passers-by simply have to
silence. All stories share the same ending: the sea suddenly turning turbulent and a vast ring of
dripping dismantling gantries rising around the prey towns to dismember their machines and
imprison their crew.

These tales are generally dismissed by seasoned seafarers, who consider it much more likely the
victims are too embarrassed to admit they foundered on hidden rocks, or that they were attacked
by gigantic mutant squid.

INDIA

Cut off from the Great Hunting Ground by the Himalayas, India went its own way throughout

Cut off from the Great Hunting Ground by the Himalayas, India went its own way throughout

the early years of the Traction Era, and many are the songs and paintings which recount the

the early years of the Traction Era, and many are the songs and paintings which recount the

rise and fall of its various castle-building kingdoms and rail republics. But with the accidental

rise and fall of its various castle-building kingdoms and rail republics. But with the accidental

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161

introduction of Tractionism by Panjandrum, the subcontinent embarked on its own Traction

introduction of Tractionism by Panjandrum, the subcontinent embarked on its own Traction

Boom. It soon produced its own distinctive types of Traction City – and its own distinctive type

Boom. It soon produced its own distinctive types of Traction City – and its own distinctive type

of Anti-Tractionists, who live in caves hollowed out of the sides of track-marks, from which they

of Anti-Tractionists, who live in caves hollowed out of the sides of track-marks, from which they

emerge on makeshift rafts in monsoon season to raid towns and cities which have bogged down

in the mud.

Great lava flows caused by the reopening of the Deccan Traps in the Sixty Minute War created

basalt pavements which, in the rainy season, are the safest paths for mobile cities when everything

basalt pavements which, in the rainy season, are the safest paths for mobile cities when everything

basalt pavements which, in the rainy season, are the safest paths for mobile cities when everything

basalt pavements which, in the rainy season, are the safest paths for mobile cities when everything

else turns to mud. However, this has led to many horrendous accidents caused by cities driving

into each other at high speed in the rain.

After the Sixty Minute War and the collapse of civilization, Indian Railways emerged as the most

After the Sixty Minute War and the collapse of civilization, Indian Railways emerged as the most

powerful nation-state of the subcontinent, with its armoured trains moving between heavily

powerful nation-state of the subcontinent, with its armoured trains moving between heavily

fortified station-cities. After Traction was violently introduced to the subcontinent by

Panjandrum in the late sixth century TE, the railway lines unfortunately served as an ideal

conveyor-belt snack bar to India’s early Traction Cities. Eventually even the rails were eaten,

conveyor-belt snack bar to India’s early Traction Cities. Eventually even the rails were eaten,

leaving the most important IR fortified stations as isolated statics. Several took the names of

leaving the most important IR fortified stations as isolated statics. Several took the names of

their main services when they Tractionized, leading to cities such as Golden Unlimited and

their main services when they Tractionized, leading to cities such as Golden Unlimited and

their main services when they Tractionized, leading to cities such as Golden Unlimited and

Chittorgarh Express.

Chittorgarh Express.

Chittorgarh Express.

Juggernautpur

“The City of Shrines”, Juggernautpur is completely covered in carvings and idols, and

“The City of Shrines”, Juggernautpur is completely covered in carvings and idols, and

“The City of Shrines”, Juggernautpur is completely covered in carvings and idols, and

“The City of Shrines”, Juggernautpur is completely covered in carvings and idols, and

“The City of Shrines”, Juggernautpur is completely covered in carvings and idols, and

fabulously wealthy. One of the four dominant Traction Cities on the Indian subcontinent. For

fabulously wealthy. One of the four dominant Traction Cities on the Indian subcontinent. For

fabulously wealthy. One of the four dominant Traction Cities on the Indian subcontinent. For

fabulously wealthy. One of the four dominant Traction Cities on the Indian subcontinent. For

more information see Minty Bapsnack’s

more information see Minty Bapsnack’s

Khaja with the Rajah: Travels In Search Of Cake Among

Khaja with the Rajah: Travels In Search Of Cake Among

Khaja with the Rajah: Travels In Search Of Cake Among

India’s Metropoli

(Perpatetiapolis University Press, 982).

(Perpatetiapolis University Press, 982).

LAKDIVA

Although occasionally menaced by cities crossing Rama’s Bridge from the Indian mainland,

Although occasionally menaced by cities crossing Rama’s Bridge from the Indian mainland,

the semi-island of Lakdiva is a rich and successful enclave of the Anti-Traction League. The

the semi-island of Lakdiva is a rich and successful enclave of the Anti-Traction League. The

capital, Kandy, lies in the central highlands, and its prosperous tea estates are protected from

capital, Kandy, lies in the central highlands, and its prosperous tea estates are protected from

opportunistic cities by airships of the Golden Lion Fleet launching from the fortresses of

Sigiriya and Tri. The fine black Lakdivan tea is extremely popular among the Traction Cities of

the Hunting Ground, and many merchants have made their fortunes by sneaking cargos past the

patchily enforced embargo dictated by Tienjing.

Lakdas

Weerasinghe

A buccaneering tea-clipper captain of the

A buccaneering tea-clipper captain of the

A buccaneering tea-clipper captain of the

Golden Age of Tractionism, renowned for

Golden Age of Tractionism, renowned for

Golden Age of Tractionism, renowned for

escaping Khazaki air pirates and Sigiriyan

escaping Khazaki air pirates and Sigiriyan

escaping Khazaki air pirates and Sigiriyan

revenue cutters with equal aplomb. Despite

revenue cutters with equal aplomb. Despite

revenue cutters with equal aplomb. Despite

being born and raised in the static city of

being born and raised in the static city of

being born and raised in the static city of

Kandy, his blockade runner

Invisible Worm

Invisible Worm

Invisible Worm

was always welcome at even the most rabidly

was always welcome at even the most rabidly

was always welcome at even the most rabidly

Tractionist towns. A legend among aviators

Tractionist towns. A legend among aviators

Tractionist towns. A legend among aviators

and a folk hero in Anglish-speaking cities,

and a folk hero in Anglish-speaking cities,

and a folk hero in Anglish-speaking cities,

his name has become a watchword for daring

his name has become a watchword for daring

his name has become a watchword for daring

and quality, with an exceptionally good mug

and quality, with an exceptionally good mug

and quality, with an exceptionally good mug

of tea often earning an approving comment

of tea often earning an approving comment

of tea often earning an approving comment

of “that’s the real Weerasinghe”.

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163

Dunevilles

A class of nocturnal scavenger suburbs. By moonlight, they scour the desert, looking for the

A class of nocturnal scavenger suburbs. By moonlight, they scour the desert, looking for the

remnants of old battlegrounds or satellites and other bits of Old-Tech junk that fall out of

remnants of old battlegrounds or satellites and other bits of Old-Tech junk that fall out of

the sky along the equator. By day, they remain motionless, using tentpoles and vast awnings

the sky along the equator. By day, they remain motionless, using tentpoles and vast awnings

of sand-coloured canvas to disguise themselves from desert predators.

of sand-coloured canvas to disguise themselves from desert predators.

AFRICA

The fierce Anti-Tractionist sentiment of the Zagwan Deluge has faded, and survives only

The fierce Anti-Tractionist sentiment of the Zagwan Deluge has faded, and survives only

in celebrations like Brumfire Night, when small-wheeled effigies of Traction Cities are set

in celebrations like Brumfire Night, when small-wheeled effigies of Traction Cities are set

ablaze to commemorate the burning of Brum. The fearsome Zagwan warrior-bishops who

ablaze to commemorate the burning of Brum. The fearsome Zagwan warrior-bishops who

once ruled over much of Africa would scarcely recognize their continent now. Zagwa has

once ruled over much of Africa would scarcely recognize their continent now. Zagwa has

once ruled over much of Africa would scarcely recognize their continent now. Zagwa has

become a sleepy, peaceful mountain nation, religiously tolerant and artistically inventive; its

become a sleepy, peaceful mountain nation, religiously tolerant and artistically inventive; its

become a sleepy, peaceful mountain nation, religiously tolerant and artistically inventive; its

army and flying corps are used only to defend itself and aid its static neighbours like Tibesti,

army and flying corps are used only to defend itself and aid its static neighbours like Tibesti,

army and flying corps are used only to defend itself and aid its static neighbours like Tibesti,

Semien-Gondar, and the Kabusha Paramountcy. Around the shrinking borders of these statics

Semien-Gondar, and the Kabusha Paramountcy. Around the shrinking borders of these statics

Semien-Gondar, and the Kabusha Paramountcy. Around the shrinking borders of these statics

rolls a vast and enthusiastic array of Afro-Tractionist towns and cities, of which this book can

rolls a vast and enthusiastic array of Afro-Tractionist towns and cities, of which this book can

rolls a vast and enthusiastic array of Afro-Tractionist towns and cities, of which this book can

include only a small sample.

Sand ships

These fast, wheeled sailcraft are a common sight

around the Great Sand Sea. The vessel of choice for

couriers and bounty hunters, they are light enough

couriers and bounty hunters, they are light enough

to cross even the shifting sands of the deep desert.

164

Water-carriers

The lifeblood of North African Tractionism, water-carrying cities fill their enormous tanks in

The lifeblood of North African Tractionism, water-carrying cities fill their enormous tanks in

spring from the lake-fortress Aswan, and in autumn from the solar-powered desalination towns

spring from the lake-fortress Aswan, and in autumn from the solar-powered desalination towns

on the Middle Sea, to sell water to the cities of the parched interior. Most are simply a set of

on the Middle Sea, to sell water to the cities of the parched interior. Most are simply a set of

Bamako

A piratical North African city, famous for having eaten the last of the Zagwan statics north of the

Mountains of the Moon before its spree was ended by the Royal Zagwan Flying Corps.

Cairo

The first North African Traction City, Cairo’s people overthrew their Zagwan masters and rebuilt

it on a chassis shipped across the Middle Sea by Europan sympathizers. Somewhat pyramidal in

design, it boasts a large figurehead in the shape of a noseless sphinx.

166

Kom Ombo

The upper tiers of Kom Ombo are famous for their beautiful mosques, whose many minarets

crowd the city’s skyline. Below them, the lower levels house huge desalination plants. Known as

“the elephant of the littoral”, the city lumbers along the North African coast, sucking up seawater

“the elephant of the littoral”, the city lumbers along the North African coast, sucking up seawater

which it converts into fresh water and salt – both valuable commodities in the arid hunting

which it converts into fresh water and salt – both valuable commodities in the arid hunting

grounds inland.

grounds inland.

six or eight million-gallon drums packed on to a heavy chassis, with a few little huts for the

six or eight million-gallon drums packed on to a heavy chassis, with a few little huts for the

crew perched on or around the water tanks. Slow and lumbering, their important role in the

crew perched on or around the water tanks. Slow and lumbering, their important role in the

ecosystem is widely respected, and while thirsty predators will happily pipe away vast cold

ecosystem is widely respected, and while thirsty predators will happily pipe away vast cold

drinks from the helpless carriers, and press-gang their crews, they are rarely eaten entirely.

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169

Nuevo Maya

Ancient maps and legends attest that the Dead Continent and Nuevo Maya were once one,

Ancient maps and legends attest that the Dead Continent and Nuevo Maya were once one,

connected by a land bridge which was obliterated by Slow Bombs during the Sixty Minute War.

connected by a land bridge which was obliterated by Slow Bombs during the Sixty Minute War.

Further strikes left immense scars across the continent of South America, most notably the

Further strikes left immense scars across the continent of South America, most notably the

Cráter de Cuiabá, and altered the courses of the Parana and the Silver River.

Like people in many other parts of the world, the surviving South Americans blamed the

Like people in many other parts of the world, the surviving South Americans blamed the

technological advances of the Ancients for the catastrophe which had befallen them, and set

technological advances of the Ancients for the catastrophe which had befallen them, and set

technological advances of the Ancients for the catastrophe which had befallen them, and set

about ridding themselves of all the trappings of twenty-first century civilization. They turned

about ridding themselves of all the trappings of twenty-first century civilization. They turned

instead to the old ways of the Aztecs and Incas, the Toltecs, Mixtecs, Zapotecs and above all the

instead to the old ways of the Aztecs and Incas, the Toltecs, Mixtecs, Zapotecs and above all the

Mayans, developing a new culture out of half-remembered fragments of all these old ones. By

Mayans, developing a new culture out of half-remembered fragments of all these old ones. By

Mayans, developing a new culture out of half-remembered fragments of all these old ones. By

200 TE the Nuevo-Mayan culture had spread across the whole continent, from the glass shores

200 TE the Nuevo-Mayan culture had spread across the whole continent, from the glass shores

200 TE the Nuevo-Mayan culture had spread across the whole continent, from the glass shores

of the Crater Sea to the snows of Tierra del Fuego, although the region remained politically

of the Crater Sea to the snows of Tierra del Fuego, although the region remained politically

divided between many rival city states and above all between the lands above and below the

divided between many rival city states and above all between the lands above and below the

Rio Nuevo. Eventually the Nuevo-Mayans began to embrace technology once more (the first

Rio Nuevo. Eventually the Nuevo-Mayans began to embrace technology once more (the first

successful motor-powered airship is said to have been launched in Neo Teoticuahan around

490). When traders brought news of the Second Traction Boom across the Atlantic the

490). When traders brought news of the Second Traction Boom across the Atlantic the

Nuevo-Mayan city-states and the motorized gauchos of the great pampas lowlands began to

mobilize with surprising speed, and a full-scale Municipal Darwinist food-chain was in

operation by 600 TE.

operation by 600 TE.

Cities of the Amazone

The great ziggurat-cities of the northern Nuevo-Mayans, largely fuelled by wood

gas, chew through the fast-regrowing forest with their great chainsaw mandibles

night and day. The vast rainforest-felling impacts of the Sixty Minute War could

not completely destroy the Amazon rainforest, and even the immense appetites of

Traction Cities cannot keep it down.

Nuevo Mayan cities are highly stratified, with the upper tiers devoted to temple

complexes where priest-steersmen consider the direction of their city’s course in

accordance with the Long Count. The guardians of the high temple complexes are

known for their lethal skill with their blast-glass

macahuitls

and their razor-edged

Battle Frisbees, able to decapitate a man at sixty paces.

Piranhas

The Rio Nuevo’s countless tributaries and the seasonal floodplains of the Nuevo Mayan

The Rio Nuevo’s countless tributaries and the seasonal floodplains of the Nuevo Mayan

The Rio Nuevo’s countless tributaries and the seasonal floodplains of the Nuevo Mayan

The Rio Nuevo’s countless tributaries and the seasonal floodplains of the Nuevo Mayan

interior are inhabited by swarms of small aquatic suburbs known as piranhas, which generally

interior are inhabited by swarms of small aquatic suburbs known as piranhas, which generally

interior are inhabited by swarms of small aquatic suburbs known as piranhas, which generally

interior are inhabited by swarms of small aquatic suburbs known as piranhas, which generally

interior are inhabited by swarms of small aquatic suburbs known as piranhas, which generally

interior are inhabited by swarms of small aquatic suburbs known as piranhas, which generally

interior are inhabited by swarms of small aquatic suburbs known as piranhas, which generally

hunt in large packs. In the rainy season it is very hard to get anywhere without fording at least

hunt in large packs. In the rainy season it is very hard to get anywhere without fording at least

hunt in large packs. In the rainy season it is very hard to get anywhere without fording at least

hunt in large packs. In the rainy season it is very hard to get anywhere without fording at least

one river, and cities generally deal with piranhas by leaving enormous sacrifices of steak on the

one river, and cities generally deal with piranhas by leaving enormous sacrifices of steak on the

one river, and cities generally deal with piranhas by leaving enormous sacrifices of steak on the

one river, and cities generally deal with piranhas by leaving enormous sacrifices of steak on the

shore as a distraction. Even so, rare is the fording city that makes it across a river without hav-

shore as a distraction. Even so, rare is the fording city that makes it across a river without hav-

shore as a distraction. Even so, rare is the fording city that makes it across a river without hav-

shore as a distraction. Even so, rare is the fording city that makes it across a river without hav-

ing a few nibbles taken out of its lower tiers. Hungry piranhas have been known to get stuck on

ing a few nibbles taken out of its lower tiers. Hungry piranhas have been known to get stuck on

ing a few nibbles taken out of its lower tiers. Hungry piranhas have been known to get stuck on

ing a few nibbles taken out of its lower tiers. Hungry piranhas have been known to get stuck on

their prey and find themselves dragged clear out of the water to dangle like angry earrings. This

their prey and find themselves dragged clear out of the water to dangle like angry earrings. This

their prey and find themselves dragged clear out of the water to dangle like angry earrings. This

their prey and find themselves dragged clear out of the water to dangle like angry earrings. This

Smoke Jaguar

Born among the Anti-Tractionist tribesmen

Born among the Anti-Tractionist tribesmen

Born among the Anti-Tractionist tribesmen

Born among the Anti-Tractionist tribesmen

Born among the Anti-Tractionist tribesmen

who still wander the new-growth rainforests

who still wander the new-growth rainforests

who still wander the new-growth rainforests

who still wander the new-growth rainforests

who still wander the new-growth rainforests

of Amazon, the young Smoke Jaguar

of Amazon, the young Smoke Jaguar

of Amazon, the young Smoke Jaguar

accidentally found himself aboard the

accidentally found himself aboard the

accidentally found himself aboard the

accidentally found himself aboard the

piranha El Hambrón while out for a swim.

piranha El Hambrón while out for a swim.

piranha El Hambrón while out for a swim.

Quickly impressing the piranha’s crew

Quickly impressing the piranha’s crew

Quickly impressing the piranha’s crew

with his hunting instincts, he overthrew El

with his hunting instincts, he overthrew El

with his hunting instincts, he overthrew El

Hambrón’s jefe at the age of seventeen and

Hambrón’s jefe at the age of seventeen and

Hambrón’s jefe at the age of seventeen and

went on to lead the piranhas of the Pantanal

went on to lead the piranhas of the Pantanal

went on to lead the piranhas of the Pantanal

in several high-profile feeding frenzies. Most

in several high-profile feeding frenzies. Most

in several high-profile feeding frenzies. Most

notably, in 963 TE, by linking the hulls of

notably, in 963 TE, by linking the hulls of

notably, in 963 TE, by linking the hulls of

fifteen piranhas to resemble a beached raft

fifteen piranhas to resemble a beached raft

fifteen piranhas to resemble a beached raft

town, Smoke Jaguar and his allies successfully

town, Smoke Jaguar and his allies successfully

town, Smoke Jaguar and his allies successfully

lured Nuevo Tlaxcala into an impassable

lured Nuevo Tlaxcala into an impassable

lured Nuevo Tlaxcala into an impassable

marsh before swarming it and stripping the

marsh before swarming it and stripping the

marsh before swarming it and stripping the

marsh before swarming it and stripping the

immense nine-tier city to the chassis in a

immense nine-tier city to the chassis in a

immense nine-tier city to the chassis in a

immense nine-tier city to the chassis in a

matter of hours.

matter of hours.

172

Cities of the Pampas del Sur

In the endless plains south of the Rio Nuevo, it is the immense genotaur herds, rather than stat-

In the endless plains south of the Rio Nuevo, it is the immense genotaur herds, rather than stat-

In the endless plains south of the Rio Nuevo, it is the immense genotaur herds, rather than stat-

ic settlements, who form the base of the Tractionist food pyramid. Immense grazing herds of

ic settlements, who form the base of the Tractionist food pyramid. Immense grazing herds of

ic settlements, who form the base of the Tractionist food pyramid. Immense grazing herds of

genotauro are herded by traction barrios across the plains. Cities of equal size will often work

genotauro are herded by traction barrios across the plains. Cities of equal size will often work

genotauro are herded by traction barrios across the plains. Cities of equal size will often work

together in trading or herding clusters, with small teams of suburbs and tens of thousands of cat-

together in trading or herding clusters, with small teams of suburbs and tens of thousands of cat-

together in trading or herding clusters, with small teams of suburbs and tens of thousands of cat-

tle moving in a herd centred around a carvery-city or

tle moving in a herd centred around a carvery-city or

asador de tracción

. At slaughter time, the

. At slaughter time, the

herds are gathered in and the asado celebrations begin, consuming ludicrous amounts of steak,

herds are gathered in and the asado celebrations begin, consuming ludicrous amounts of steak,

herds are gathered in and the asado celebrations begin, consuming ludicrous amounts of steak,

which is traditionally grilled on the cities’ engine manifolds.

which is traditionally grilled on the cities’ engine manifolds.

A particularly close relationship has grown up across the Provincias Peripatéticas de la Plata, where

A particularly close relationship has grown up across the Provincias Peripatéticas de la Plata, where

A particularly close relationship has grown up across the Provincias Peripatéticas de la Plata, where

each “province” is devolved into a group of autogaucho suburbs working around a larger traction

each “province” is devolved into a group of autogaucho suburbs working around a larger traction

each “province” is devolved into a group of autogaucho suburbs working around a larger traction

pueblo, which serves as a combined administrative capital, aëro-harbour and meatpacking plant;

pueblo, which serves as a combined administrative capital, aëro-harbour and meatpacking plant;

pueblo, which serves as a combined administrative capital, aëro-harbour and meatpacking plant;

the components move as one and consider themselves a single, somewhat spread-out city.

the components move as one and consider themselves a single, somewhat spread-out city.

the components move as one and consider themselves a single, somewhat spread-out city.

The carvery clusters are made easy to track by the vast trails of bones they leave behind, and

The carvery clusters are made easy to track by the vast trails of bones they leave behind, and

the noisy packs of wild dogs that can be found happily chewing in their wake. In richer times

the noisy packs of wild dogs that can be found happily chewing in their wake. In richer times

the noisy packs of wild dogs that can be found happily chewing in their wake. In richer times

predators usually confined themselves to large-scale cattle rustling, but now they are as likely to

predators usually confined themselves to large-scale cattle rustling, but now they are as likely to

predators usually confined themselves to large-scale cattle rustling, but now they are as likely to

prey on the suburbs themselves.

has no doubt contributed to lurid tales of Nuevo-Mayan vampires and “El Chupamunicipio”, a

has no doubt contributed to lurid tales of Nuevo-Mayan vampires and “El Chupamunicipio”, a

has no doubt contributed to lurid tales of Nuevo-Mayan vampires and “El Chupamunicipio”, a

legendary parasite town which clings to the lower decks of an unsuspecting Traction City,

legendary parasite town which clings to the lower decks of an unsuspecting Traction City,

draining its fuel tanks.

draining its fuel tanks.

173

Santiago

Cortina

Among the most famous chases of the

Among the most famous chases of the

pampas is the nine-day pursuit of Potencia

pampas is the nine-day pursuit of Potencia

by Villajero. With its attending barrios

by Villajero. With its attending barrios

already scattered or eaten by the predator,

already scattered or eaten by the predator,

and her city running desperately low of fuel,

and her city running desperately low of fuel,

Santiago Cortina, the Caudilla of Potencia,

Santiago Cortina, the Caudilla of Potencia,

requisitioned the city’s entire stock of tallow

requisitioned the city’s entire stock of tallow

in a desperate bid to keep the engines

in a desperate bid to keep the engines

running. Potencia made history as the first

running. Potencia made history as the first

and only city to be fuelled by beef fat, and

and only city to be fuelled by beef fat, and

Villajero broke off from the chase, although

Villajero broke off from the chase, although

accounts vary as to whether the pursuer

accounts vary as to whether the pursuer

city was low on fuel itself or was merely

city was low on fuel itself or was merely

overpowered by the truly incredible smell.

overpowered by the truly incredible smell.

The Caudilla’s great legacy to the world is the

The Caudilla’s great legacy to the world is the

“Cortina Especiale”, a steak flambé dish as

“Cortina Especiale”, a steak flambé dish as

popular with upper tier restaurant-goers as it

popular with upper tier restaurant-goers as it

is unpopular with fire brigades.

174

The Bird Roads carry a thriving air-trade in cow-related products to both Shan Guo and the

The Bird Roads carry a thriving air-trade in cow-related products to both Shan Guo and the

Great Hunting Ground. Due to the mass technological purges of the early Nuevo-Mayans, Old-

Great Hunting Ground. Due to the mass technological purges of the early Nuevo-Mayans, Old-

Tech is rare and highly prized across the continent, with a box of seedies often trading for an

Tech is rare and highly prized across the continent, with a box of seedies often trading for an

entire hold of fluid beef.

entire hold of fluid beef.

El Condor

Traction gauchos sheltering their herds in

Traction gauchos sheltering their herds in

Traction gauchos sheltering their herds in

the foothills of the Andes are often harried

the foothills of the Andes are often harried

the foothills of the Andes are often harried

by cattle thieves. Most famous among these

by cattle thieves. Most famous among these

by cattle thieves. Most famous among these

rogues is “El Condor”, pioneer air rustler,

rogues is “El Condor”, pioneer air rustler,

rogues is “El Condor”, pioneer air rustler,

rogues is “El Condor”, pioneer air rustler,

rogues is “El Condor”, pioneer air rustler,

rogues is “El Condor”, pioneer air rustler,

who mastered a courageous technique of

who mastered a courageous technique of

who mastered a courageous technique of

cutting his engines a long way from prey,

cutting his engines a long way from prey,

cutting his engines a long way from prey,

gliding among herds at night and lassoing

gliding among herds at night and lassoing

gliding among herds at night and lassoing

the choicest-looking steer from above. His

the choicest-looking steer from above. His

the choicest-looking steer from above. His

flotilla of beef-thieving airships, led by the

flotilla of beef-thieving airships, led by the

flotilla of beef-thieving airships, led by the

black-enveloped

black-enveloped

Sorpresa

, became the silent

, became the silent

scourge of the western pampas in the late

scourge of the western pampas in the late

scourge of the western pampas in the late

tenth century TE.

tenth century TE.

Anti-Tractionists of the Andes

In the mists of time the Andes were once home to great and ancient static kingdoms, and

their populations were revived by refugees fleeing the rampages of Nuevo Maya’s first

ziggurat cities. Settlements were established and re-established along the antique mountain

ziggurat cities. Settlements were established and re-established along the antique mountain

ziggurat cities. Settlements were established and re-established along the antique mountain

roads, from Intihuatana in the north to the grand stone city of Chakana to the south.

roads, from Intihuatana in the north to the grand stone city of Chakana to the south.

roads, from Intihuatana in the north to the grand stone city of Chakana to the south.

These statics eventually formed the southernmost outpost of the Anti-Traction League, which

These statics eventually formed the southernmost outpost of the Anti-Traction League, which

built many airbases among the mountain ranges, and for many years the feather-patterned

built many airbases among the mountain ranges, and for many years the feather-patterned

airships of the Southern Air-Fleet were a familiar sight above the fishing statics of the west

airships of the Southern Air-Fleet were a familiar sight above the fishing statics of the west

coast as they patrolled back and forth, watching for raids from raft-cities like Valparaiso and

coast as they patrolled back and forth, watching for raids from raft-cities like Valparaiso and

Puerto Angeles.

Puerto Angeles.

175

Australia

Long regarded as a myth, this great southern continent (also known as Oztralia, ’Stralia and

Long regarded as a myth, this great southern continent (also known as Oztralia, ’Stralia and

Danundaland) was only re-contacted by air-traders in the seventh century TE. Australia

Danundaland) was only re-contacted by air-traders in the seventh century TE. Australia

enthusiastically embraced Tractionism, apart from its northern coasts, which had been resettled

enthusiastically embraced Tractionism, apart from its northern coasts, which had been resettled

enthusiastically embraced Tractionism, apart from its northern coasts, which had been resettled

enthusiastically embraced Tractionism, apart from its northern coasts, which had been resettled

by Anti-Tractionist Hundred Islanders. To the rest of the world, it is a land of fearsome, misshapen

by Anti-Tractionist Hundred Islanders. To the rest of the world, it is a land of fearsome, misshapen

by Anti-Tractionist Hundred Islanders. To the rest of the world, it is a land of fearsome, misshapen

by Anti-Tractionist Hundred Islanders. To the rest of the world, it is a land of fearsome, misshapen

by Anti-Tractionist Hundred Islanders. To the rest of the world, it is a land of fearsome, misshapen

by Anti-Tractionist Hundred Islanders. To the rest of the world, it is a land of fearsome, misshapen

by Anti-Tractionist Hundred Islanders. To the rest of the world, it is a land of fearsome, misshapen

predators where one cannot even stop by a billabong for water without being pounced on by a

predators where one cannot even stop by a billabong for water without being pounced on by a

predators where one cannot even stop by a billabong for water without being pounced on by a

predators where one cannot even stop by a billabong for water without being pounced on by a

predators where one cannot even stop by a billabong for water without being pounced on by a

predators where one cannot even stop by a billabong for water without being pounced on by a

predators where one cannot even stop by a billabong for water without being pounced on by a

hungry bunyip suburb, and where every promising scrap of salvage is snatched up by fast-moving

hungry bunyip suburb, and where every promising scrap of salvage is snatched up by fast-moving

hungry bunyip suburb, and where every promising scrap of salvage is snatched up by fast-moving

hungry bunyip suburb, and where every promising scrap of salvage is snatched up by fast-moving

hungry bunyip suburb, and where every promising scrap of salvage is snatched up by fast-moving

kookaboroughs. To the proud citizens of its many highly specialized Traction Cities, it is the land

kookaboroughs. To the proud citizens of its many highly specialized Traction Cities, it is the land

kookaboroughs. To the proud citizens of its many highly specialized Traction Cities, it is the land

kookaboroughs. To the proud citizens of its many highly specialized Traction Cities, it is the land

kookaboroughs. To the proud citizens of its many highly specialized Traction Cities, it is the land

kookaboroughs. To the proud citizens of its many highly specialized Traction Cities, it is the land

where Municipal Darwinism has found its truest expression – a term the amphibious city of

where Municipal Darwinism has found its truest expression – a term the amphibious city of

where Municipal Darwinism has found its truest expression – a term the amphibious city of

where Municipal Darwinism has found its truest expression – a term the amphibious city of

Darwin rejoices in particularly, claiming “the Australian city is more highly evolved”.

Darwin rejoices in particularly, claiming “the Australian city is more highly evolved”.

Darwin rejoices in particularly, claiming “the Australian city is more highly evolved”.

Darwin rejoices in particularly, claiming “the Australian city is more highly evolved”.

176

Woolloo-
mooloo Smith

A famous explorer and trader from Sydney

A famous explorer and trader from Sydney

A famous explorer and trader from Sydney

A famous explorer and trader from Sydney

who brought Australian culture to the Great

who brought Australian culture to the Great

Hunting Ground in the late ninth century

Hunting Ground in the late ninth century

TE. Steering his three airships, the

Woomera,

Woomera,

Yara-ma-yha-who

and

Banjo Paterson

Banjo Paterson

, on

a trade mission all the way to the northern

a trade mission all the way to the northern

Hunting Ground, his wild sales pitches

Hunting Ground, his wild sales pitches

and outlandish style of dress successfully

and outlandish style of dress successfully

captured the imaginations – and money –

captured the imaginations – and money –

of a curious Tractionist public (Australian

of a curious Tractionist public (Australian

soaps proved peculiarly popular). Smith

soaps proved peculiarly popular). Smith

returned to Sydney with an immense fortune

returned to Sydney with an immense fortune

in Old-Tech, but disappeared on his return

in Old-Tech, but disappeared on his return

in Old-Tech, but disappeared on his return

flight to Europa; the notorious air-pirate

flight to Europa; the notorious air-pirate

flight to Europa; the notorious air-pirate

gang, the White Pointers, claimed to have

gang, the White Pointers, claimed to have

gang, the White Pointers, claimed to have

shot him down, although no wreckage was

shot him down, although no wreckage was

shot him down, although no wreckage was

ever found. Smith’s mission paved the way

ever found. Smith’s mission paved the way

ever found. Smith’s mission paved the way

for new trade routes and inspired a wave of

for new trade routes and inspired a wave of

for new trade routes and inspired a wave of

for new trade routes and inspired a wave of

air-tourism to Australia, although many of

air-tourism to Australia, although many of

air-tourism to Australia, although many of

air-tourism to Australia, although many of

air-tourism to Australia, although many of

these tourists returned to their home cities

these tourists returned to their home cities

these tourists returned to their home cities

these tourists returned to their home cities

thoroughly traumatized by the bizarre

thoroughly traumatized by the bizarre

thoroughly traumatized by the bizarre

thoroughly traumatized by the bizarre

predators they encountered.

177

Drop-boroughs

Semi-aerial hybrid suburbs unique to Australia, fitted with rings of gasbags and banks of

Semi-aerial hybrid suburbs unique to Australia, fitted with rings of gasbags and banks of

Semi-aerial hybrid suburbs unique to Australia, fitted with rings of gasbags and banks of

aëro-engines to give them short bursts of flight. Fearless predators sporting names like Flat Top

aëro-engines to give them short bursts of flight. Fearless predators sporting names like Flat Top

aëro-engines to give them short bursts of flight. Fearless predators sporting names like Flat Top

aëro-engines to give them short bursts of flight. Fearless predators sporting names like Flat Top

and Cut-&-Come-Again, they are known for dropping on the upper decks of cities many times

and Cut-&-Come-Again, they are known for dropping on the upper decks of cities many times

and Cut-&-Come-Again, they are known for dropping on the upper decks of cities many times

their size to nibble at the rich districts often built there, sometimes biting away buildings or even

their size to nibble at the rich districts often built there, sometimes biting away buildings or even

their size to nibble at the rich districts often built there, sometimes biting away buildings or even

entire decks before zooming away from their stunned prey.

entire decks before zooming away from their stunned prey.

entire decks before zooming away from their stunned prey.

A particularly infamous drop-borough attack occurred in 941 TE when Buzzkut pounced on

A particularly infamous drop-borough attack occurred in 941 TE when Buzzkut pounced on

A particularly infamous drop-borough attack occurred in 941 TE when Buzzkut pounced on

A particularly infamous drop-borough attack occurred in 941 TE when Buzzkut pounced on

Sydney’s upper decks in an attempt to steal the Opera House, only for its dismantling crews to be

Sydney’s upper decks in an attempt to steal the Opera House, only for its dismantling crews to be

Sydney’s upper decks in an attempt to steal the Opera House, only for its dismantling crews to be

Sydney’s upper decks in an attempt to steal the Opera House, only for its dismantling crews to be

beaten off by a furious audience led by the soprano Flimsy Harkaway and baritone Folderol Grist.

beaten off by a furious audience led by the soprano Flimsy Harkaway and baritone Folderol Grist.

beaten off by a furious audience led by the soprano Flimsy Harkaway and baritone Folderol Grist.

beaten off by a furious audience led by the soprano Flimsy Harkaway and baritone Folderol Grist.

Mayor Bruce Runham of Sydney later credited the attack with reviving Sydneysiders’ interest in

Mayor Bruce Runham of Sydney later credited the attack with reviving Sydneysiders’ interest in

Mayor Bruce Runham of Sydney later credited the attack with reviving Sydneysiders’ interest in

Mayor Bruce Runham of Sydney later credited the attack with reviving Sydneysiders’ interest in

Mayor Bruce Runham of Sydney later credited the attack with reviving Sydneysiders’ interest in

opera, and “The Ballad of Buzzkut’s Bite” did the rounds in many a Tractionist music-hall.

opera, and “The Ballad of Buzzkut’s Bite” did the rounds in many a Tractionist music-hall.

opera, and “The Ballad of Buzzkut’s Bite” did the rounds in many a Tractionist music-hall.

opera, and “The Ballad of Buzzkut’s Bite” did the rounds in many a Tractionist music-hall.

Alice Springs

Among the fiercest predators of the interior outback, so named for the powerful turbo-pogos

Among the fiercest predators of the interior outback, so named for the powerful turbo-pogos

Among the fiercest predators of the interior outback, so named for the powerful turbo-pogos

Among the fiercest predators of the interior outback, so named for the powerful turbo-pogos

it uses to leap into the air and close the final distance in a chase. Many predator towns have

it uses to leap into the air and close the final distance in a chase. Many predator towns have

it uses to leap into the air and close the final distance in a chase. Many predator towns have

it uses to leap into the air and close the final distance in a chase. Many predator towns have

attempted to fit similar springs, aspiring to be “a town like Alice”, but generally end up getting

attempted to fit similar springs, aspiring to be “a town like Alice”, but generally end up getting

attempted to fit similar springs, aspiring to be “a town like Alice”, but generally end up getting

attempted to fit similar springs, aspiring to be “a town like Alice”, but generally end up getting

the balance wrong and boinging uncontrollably around the outback to cries of “What kind of

the balance wrong and boinging uncontrollably around the outback to cries of “What kind of

the balance wrong and boinging uncontrollably around the outback to cries of “What kind of

the balance wrong and boinging uncontrollably around the outback to cries of “What kind of

kangaroo town do you call this?”.

kangaroo town do you call this?”.

kangaroo town do you call this?”.

178

Bunyips

A type of ambush predator suburb. Fitted with snorkels, cunningly disguised observation

A type of ambush predator suburb. Fitted with snorkels, cunningly disguised observation

A type of ambush predator suburb. Fitted with snorkels, cunningly disguised observation

A type of ambush predator suburb. Fitted with snorkels, cunningly disguised observation

periscopes and weed-themed camouflage, they lurk in the lakes and deep billabongs of Australia

periscopes and weed-themed camouflage, they lurk in the lakes and deep billabongs of Australia

periscopes and weed-themed camouflage, they lurk in the lakes and deep billabongs of Australia

periscopes and weed-themed camouflage, they lurk in the lakes and deep billabongs of Australia

waiting for towns to pass by for a drink, upon which they burst out to bite them. Famous

waiting for towns to pass by for a drink, upon which they burst out to bite them. Famous

waiting for towns to pass by for a drink, upon which they burst out to bite them. Famous

waiting for towns to pass by for a drink, upon which they burst out to bite them. Famous

waiting for towns to pass by for a drink, upon which they burst out to bite them. Famous

examples include Bluegum, Barcaldine and Wongadilla.

examples include Bluegum, Barcaldine and Wongadilla.

examples include Bluegum, Barcaldine and Wongadilla.

examples include Bluegum, Barcaldine and Wongadilla.

Outback stationaries

The Australian outback is full of small mining towns and sheep-farming semi-statics, whose long

The Australian outback is full of small mining towns and sheep-farming semi-statics, whose long

The Australian outback is full of small mining towns and sheep-farming semi-statics, whose long

periods of immobility earn the nickname “stationaries” or “stations”. While some only light up

periods of immobility earn the nickname “stationaries” or “stations”. While some only light up

periods of immobility earn the nickname “stationaries” or “stations”. While some only light up

their engines to escape an encroaching predator, others are true semi-statics, spending much of

their engines to escape an encroaching predator, others are true semi-statics, spending much of

their engines to escape an encroaching predator, others are true semi-statics, spending much of

the rainy season in a fixed location (“home”) and patrolling their territory during the dry season

the rainy season in a fixed location (“home”) and patrolling their territory during the dry season

(known as “going rollabout”, or simply “away”.)

(known as “going rollabout”, or simply “away”.)

179

180

Wellington

Although Aotearoa (also known as Nuzealand) was otherwise happy to remain a land of static

Although Aotearoa (also known as Nuzealand) was otherwise happy to remain a land of static

Although Aotearoa (also known as Nuzealand) was otherwise happy to remain a land of static

sheep-farming settlements and fortified pā, the city of Wellington enthusiastically embraced

sheep-farming settlements and fortified pā, the city of Wellington enthusiastically embraced

sheep-farming settlements and fortified pā, the city of Wellington enthusiastically embraced

Tractionism in the seventh century TE. After having difficulties building large enough engines to

Tractionism in the seventh century TE. After having difficulties building large enough engines to

Tractionism in the seventh century TE. After having difficulties building large enough engines to

power their city out through the Cook Strait, Wellingtonians instead constructed a vast acreage

power their city out through the Cook Strait, Wellingtonians instead constructed a vast acreage

power their city out through the Cook Strait, Wellingtonians instead constructed a vast acreage

of masts and rigging, and set forth into the Peaceful Ocean on the first sail-powered city.

of masts and rigging, and set forth into the Peaceful Ocean on the first sail-powered city.

of masts and rigging, and set forth into the Peaceful Ocean on the first sail-powered city.

Each year, its mayor and council switch between the two town halls: the Lower Hutt, near the

Each year, its mayor and council switch between the two town halls: the Lower Hutt, near the

Each year, its mayor and council switch between the two town halls: the Lower Hutt, near the

bows of the city, and the tethered Upper Hutt, which is held five hundred feet above Wellington’s

bows of the city, and the tethered Upper Hutt, which is held five hundred feet above Wellington’s

bows of the city, and the tethered Upper Hutt, which is held five hundred feet above Wellington’s

upper tiers by an immense grid of boxkites.

When not touring the coasts of the Hundred Islands, it can generally be found in the Roaring

When not touring the coasts of the Hundred Islands, it can generally be found in the Roaring

When not touring the coasts of the Hundred Islands, it can generally be found in the Roaring

Forties of the South Pacific, making the many wind-powered sculptures on its upper tiers spin

Forties of the South Pacific, making the many wind-powered sculptures on its upper tiers spin

Forties of the South Pacific, making the many wind-powered sculptures on its upper tiers spin

round as fast as possible.

round as fast as possible.

Puerto Angeles

The “Port of Angels” is renowned for its historical archives and non-stop carnival atmosphere.

The topmost tier consists of a garden-temple devoted to Clio, the Goddess of History, and is the

only area in the city where conga is forbidden by law. Among the Ancient treasures of the Gran

Museo are the soapstone Victory of Rio, and complete copies of all five of Shakespeare’s plays.

Visiting scholars try their luck beating the Museo’s Piñata of Antiquities in the hope that it will

Visiting scholars try their luck beating the Museo’s Piñata of Antiquities in the hope that it will

finally burst and shower them with old-world wonders, or repair to the Quarterdeck Quarter to

finally burst and shower them with old-world wonders, or repair to the Quarterdeck Quarter to

finally burst and shower them with old-world wonders, or repair to the Quarterdeck Quarter to

finally burst and shower them with old-world wonders, or repair to the Quarterdeck Quarter to

enjoy chaotic but delicious fusion cuisine from all round the Pacific Rim: sweet and sour chipa,

enjoy chaotic but delicious fusion cuisine from all round the Pacific Rim: sweet and sour chipa,

enjoy chaotic but delicious fusion cuisine from all round the Pacific Rim: sweet and sour chipa,

enjoy chaotic but delicious fusion cuisine from all round the Pacific Rim: sweet and sour chipa,

genotaur yakiniku and wombat pakora.

genotaur yakiniku and wombat pakora.

genotaur yakiniku and wombat pakora.

The Pacific

Scavenger rafts mining the huge drifts of Ancient plastic in the central Pacific are plagued

Scavenger rafts mining the huge drifts of Ancient plastic in the central Pacific are plagued

not only by swarms of fearsome little pirate towns but by frequent earthquakes and rashes of

not only by swarms of fearsome little pirate towns but by frequent earthquakes and rashes of

undersea volcanoes. New islands appear and disappear with unsettling speed, and raft cities

undersea volcanoes. New islands appear and disappear with unsettling speed, and raft cities

which venture across these hot zones are often treated to terrifying natural firework displays.

181

Aleutia

An island chain in the Northern Pacific Ocean. Its eastern end is far too close to the dreaded

An island chain in the Northern Pacific Ocean. Its eastern end is far too close to the dreaded

shores of the Dead Continent for anyone to consider living there, but the westernmost islands

shores of the Dead Continent for anyone to consider living there, but the westernmost islands

have been inhabited, at least since the Black Centuries, by people who call themselves the

have been inhabited, at least since the Black Centuries, by people who call themselves the

Unangan. During the Traction Era these islands became a base for the Anti-Traction League,

Unangan. During the Traction Era these islands became a base for the Anti-Traction League,

Unangan. During the Traction Era these islands became a base for the Anti-Traction League,

from where airship patrols could keep watch for amphibious cities approaching the shores of

from where airship patrols could keep watch for amphibious cities approaching the shores of

from where airship patrols could keep watch for amphibious cities approaching the shores of

from where airship patrols could keep watch for amphibious cities approaching the shores of

Nippon and Khamchatka.

The Hundred Islands

Also known as the Thousand Islands, although that term is not often used by serious travellers

Also known as the Thousand Islands, although that term is not often used by serious travellers

Also known as the Thousand Islands, although that term is not often used by serious travellers

since it sounds too much like a salad dressing. In fact there are over 7,000 islands in this huge

since it sounds too much like a salad dressing. In fact there are over 7,000 islands in this huge

since it sounds too much like a salad dressing. In fact there are over 7,000 islands in this huge

archipelago, including Java, Maluku, Halmahera and Pulau Pinang. The region was mainly

archipelago, including Java, Maluku, Halmahera and Pulau Pinang. The region was mainly

archipelago, including Java, Maluku, Halmahera and Pulau Pinang. The region was mainly

Anti-Tractionist, although piratical Dyak-towns and Chinese-speaking raft cities engaged in

Anti-Tractionist, although piratical Dyak-towns and Chinese-speaking raft cities engaged in

Anti-Tractionist, although piratical Dyak-towns and Chinese-speaking raft cities engaged in

frequent raiding and trading voyages among the smaller, more remote islands.

frequent raiding and trading voyages among the smaller, more remote islands.

Ibu Khadija
Suprupta
Panggaban

The tolerant and peace-loving Sultana of

The tolerant and peace-loving Sultana of

The tolerant and peace-loving Sultana of

The tolerant and peace-loving Sultana of

The tolerant and peace-loving Sultana of

The tolerant and peace-loving Sultana of

Pulau Pinang, who broke the traditions of her

Pulau Pinang, who broke the traditions of her

Pulau Pinang, who broke the traditions of her

Pulau Pinang, who broke the traditions of her

Anti-Tractionist forefathers by encouraging

Anti-Tractionist forefathers by encouraging

Anti-Tractionist forefathers by encouraging

Traction Cities to refuel there. This policy

Traction Cities to refuel there. This policy

Traction Cities to refuel there. This policy

ended abruptly in 992 TE, when she was

ended abruptly in 992 TE, when she was

ended abruptly in 992 TE, when she was

murdered by an Anti-Tractionist assassin,

murdered by an Anti-Tractionist assassin,

murdered by an Anti-Tractionist assassin,

and the League turned the island into a base

and the League turned the island into a base

and the League turned the island into a base

for their airships and hydrofoil swarms.

for their airships and hydrofoil swarms.

for their airships and hydrofoil swarms.

for their airships and hydrofoil swarms.

183

The Dead Continent

North America was once the heartland of a mighty empire, but, blasted by orbit-to-earth

North America was once the heartland of a mighty empire, but, blasted by orbit-to-earth

atomics, hyper-kinetics and death-rays, and riddled with man-made plagues and neurotoxins, it

atomics, hyper-kinetics and death-rays, and riddled with man-made plagues and neurotoxins, it

is now known as the Dead Continent, the Lost Continent, the Land of the Setting Sun. Cursed

is now known as the Dead Continent, the Lost Continent, the Land of the Setting Sun. Cursed

and condemned, it was believed through the dark superstitious pre-Traction centuries to have

and condemned, it was believed through the dark superstitious pre-Traction centuries to have

been destroyed by its many gods. For most of history, America has been a black hole in the map,

been destroyed by its many gods. For most of history, America has been a black hole in the map,

and its poisoned plains may have incubated the plagues which periodically swept the world

and its poisoned plains may have incubated the plagues which periodically swept the world

during the Black Centuries. Records from the early Traction Era tell of adventurers who returned

during the Black Centuries. Records from the early Traction Era tell of adventurers who returned

from American shores selling pieces of Blast-Glass, which glowed faintly in the dark, but all who

from American shores selling pieces of Blast-Glass, which glowed faintly in the dark, but all who

bought their ill-starred wares fell sick and died not long after. Legends spread and took root that

everything that touched the continent was cursed.

In the later years of Traction a few daring explorers have ventured to America’s shores, and

some have even come back alive, although most people remain convinced that the place is bad

luck and best avoided. Thaddeus Valentine made several expeditions to the east coast of the

continent, and both Reykjavik’s Snøri Ulvaesson and the Aleutian aviator Daisuke Ishiwara

reported seeing wide tracts of forest and grassland in the northern regions, close to the borders

with the Ice Wastes, which Ulvaesson named Vineland. Nimrod Pennyroyal’s account of a journey

to the lost city of Detroit, in which he claimed to have met real live Americans and fought bears

and wolves, has never been confirmed, although he is not the only traveller to have suggested

that the Dead Continent may not be as dead as it once seemed. Raft cities watering on the Pacific

Coast have reported seeing camp-fires among the hills inland, and stray aviators have sighted

patches of greenery that may be crops. America remains a mystery, its story waiting to be told.

184

The Medusa Incident

London’s attempt to breach the Shield-Wall using an ancient weapon has ended

in disaster. The once-great Traction City lies in ruins, a warning against meddling

with dangerous old-fangled technology. In the Anti-Traction League, a radical

new movement calling itself the Green Storm demands all-out war against the

remaining cities. The Traction Era is not yet at an end...

Illustration Credits

8 - 9 Hester with London -

Ian McQue

10 - 11 Pre-Traction London, c.475 TE -

Philip Varbanov

12 - 13 London, 486 TE -

Philip Varbanov

14 - 15 Modern London, 1007 TE -

Philip Varbanov

18 - 19 London -

Rob Turpin

20 - 21 The Sixty Minute War -

David Wyatt

22 - 23 Blast Glass Jewellery -

Aedel Fakhrie

Old-Tech -

Aedel Fakhrie

24 - 25 Shrike with Kometsvansen -

David Wyatt

Shrike Portrait -

Ian McQue

26 - 27 Electric Empire Lamp -

Aedel Fakhrie

Raffia Hat Culture -

Philip Reeve

28 - 29 African Static City with Zebra Rider -

Amir Zand

30 - 31 Black Pyramid -

Amir Zand

Troll Tower -

Amir Zand

32 - 33 Kometsvansen -

Amir Zand

Arkhangelsk Landship -

Rob Turpin

Movement Land Ironclad -

Rob Turpin

Floemad Housebergs -

Rob Turpin

Cluny Morvish Portrait -

Ian McQue

34 - 35 Anti-Traction Fortress-

Rob Turpin

Lama Batmunkh Portrait -

Ian McQue

36 - 37 Mammoths -

Amir Zand

War Zebra and Rider -

Amir Zand

Shockroach -

Amir Zand

38 - 39 Angels -

Amir Zand

Genotaur -

Amir Zand

Nightwhite -

Amir Zand

40 - 41 Auric Godshawk Portrait -

Ian McQue

42 - 43 Nicholas Quirke Portrait -

Ian McQue

Wavey Godshawk in Quirke’s Traction

Fortress -

David Wyatt

44 - 45 The Movement’s Invasion of London -

David Wyatt

46 - 47 Dr Crumb Portrait -

Ian McQue

52 - 53 Battle of Three Dry Ships -

David Wyatt

54 - 55 Europa c.485 TE Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

56 - 57 Murnau, Approx 500 TE -

Aedel Fakhrie

Destroyed City

- Rob Turpin

Destroyed City - Rob TurpinDestroyed City

58 -59 City Cocoons -

Rob Turpin

60 - 61 Shoulder-Flash of the 143rd Heavy Cavalry

‘The Striped Whirlwind’ -

Jamie Gregory

Zagwan Deluge Map

- Maxime PLASSE

62 - 63 Battle of the Pillars of Hercules -

David Wyatt

64 - 65 The Diet of Ulp Peace Conference -

David Wyatt

66 - 67 Municipal Darwinism Food Chain -

Philip Varbanov

68 - 69 Traktionturnieren -

Rob Turpin

Boranski-Novi -

Rob Turpin

Havercroft -

Rob Turpin

70 - 71 Panjandrum -

Rob Turpin

Crawley -

Aedel Fakhrie

74 - 75 The Great Hunting Ground Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

76 - 77 London Guild Symbols -

Jamie Gregory

Thaddeus Valentine Portrait -

Ian McQue

78 - 79 The 13th Floor Elevator -

David Wyatt

80 - 81 The Big Tilt -

David Wyatt

Tom Natsworthy Portrait -

Ian McQue

82 - 83 Katherine Valentine and Dog Portrait -

Ian McQue

Goggle-Screen -

Aedel Fakhrie

Bugs and Taxi Driver -

Aedel Fakhrie

84 - 85 Traction Museum -

David Wyatt

86 - 87 Engineers -

Ian McQue

Magnus Crome Portrait -

Ian McQue

88 - 89 The Gut -

Philip Varbanov

Engine District -

Philip Varbanov

90 - 91 Campfire in a City Wheel-Rut -

Amir Zand

92 - 93 Hester Shaw Portrait -

Ian McQue

Motoropolis -

Amir Zand

94 - 95 Trading Cluster -

Amir Zand

Tunbridge Wheels -

Amir Zand

96 - 97 Dunroamin’ on Oak Island -

Amir Zand

Pandora Shaw Portrait -

Ian McQue

98 - 99 Caravanserais -

Rob Turpin

100 - 101 Airhaven -

David Wyatt

102 - 103 Emblems of the Anti-Traction League -

Jamie Gregory

104 - 105 Batmunkh Gompa -

David Wyatt

106 - 107 Tienjing -

Amir Zand

108 - 109 The Mokele-Mbembe -

Aedel Fakhrie

Captain Khora Portrait -

Ian McQue

110 - 111 Various Airships -

Rob Turpin

112 - 113

Golden Arrow

Golden Arrow

Jenny Haniver -

Golden Arrow Jenny Haniver -Golden Arrow

Philip Varbanov

114 - 115 The Bird Roads Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

Airship in the Desert -

Ian McQue

116 - 117 Sky Train -

Rob Turpin

Boreal Regatta -

Amir Zand

118 - 119 Anna Fang Portrait -

Ian McQue

120 - 121 Anna Fang and London at Night -

Ian McQue

124 - 125 Dortmund Conurbation -

Ian McQue

Panzerstadt Bayreuth -

Amir Zand

126 - 127 London and Paris City Race -

Rob Turpin

Cittamotore -

Aedel Fakhrie

128 - 129 Peripatetiapolis -

Aedel Fakhrie

Traction Avant -

Rob Turpin

130 - 131 Bordeaux-Mobile -

Rob Turpin

132 - 133 Marseilles -

Rob Turpin

Perfume Harbour -

Aedel Fakhrie

134 - 135 Grimsby -

David Wyatt

138 - 139 Snowmad Skate-Town -

Rob Turpin

Rogues’ Roost -

David Wyatt

140 - 141 Piotr Masgard Portrait -

Ian McQue

Arkangel -

Amir Zand

142 - 143 The Jenny Hanniver over Anchorage -

David Wyatt

144 - 145 The Tin Book of Anchorage -

Aedel Fakhrie

Freya Rasmussen Portrait -

Ian McQue

146 - 147 Anchorage and the Huntsmen of Arkangel -

Ian McQue

148 - 149 Seasons of the Northern Hunting Ground -

Rob Turpin

150 - 151 Vyborg -

Rob Turpin

Angels over Mayda -

David Wyatt

152 - 153 Venice -

Rob Turpin

Niccolo Tornatore Portrait -

Ian McQue

Autoschloss Runkelstein /

Trazione-Castel Roncolo -

Rob Turpin

154 - 155 Brighton -

David Wyatt

156 - 157 Pennyroyal’s Bookshelf -

Aedel Fakhrie

Nimrod Pennyroyal Portrait -

Ian McQue

158 - 159 Fastitocalon -

David Wyatt

160 - 161 India and Lakdiva Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

Chittorgarh Express -

Aedel Fakhrie

162 - 163 Juggernautpur -

Amir Zand

Lakdas Weerasinghe Portrait -

Ian McQue

164 - 165 Sand Ship -

Rob Turpin

Africa Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

166 - 167 Bamako Refuelling -

Ian McQue

Water-Carrier -

Rob Turpin

Kom Ombo -

Rob Turpin

168 - 169 Nuevo Maya Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

Nuevo Tlaxcala -

Rob Turpin

170 - 171 Cities of the Amazone -

David Wyatt

172 - 173 Smoke Jaguar Portrait -

Ian McQue

Piranhas -

Rob Turpin

174 - 175 Santiago Cortina Portrait -

Ian McQue

El Condor Portrait -

Ian McQue

176 - 177 Oceania Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

Woolloomooloo Smith Portrait -

Ian McQue

178 - 179 Alice Springs -

Rob Turpin

Bunyip -

Aedel Fakhrie

180 - 181 Wellington -

Aedel Fakhrie

Puerto Angeles -

Aedel Fakhrie

182 - 183 Pulau Pinang -

David Wyatt

Ibu Khadija Suprupta Panggaban Portrait -

Ian McQue

184 - 185 The Dead Continent Map -

Maxime

PLASSE

186 - 187 London Lies in Ruins -

Ian McQue

Thank you to Lowtuff for helping us map out the Mortal Engines world

Acknowledgements

Jamie Gregory has worked tirelessly to design this book, coordinate briefs and

changes for a huge range of illustrations, and guide the whole project to completion

like a good-humoured mayor steering his Traction City across difficult terrain.

Lowtuff’s excellent alt-cartography informed our many maps, Peter Matthews

kept an eye on the text and pointed out the bits which didn’t make sense, and we

all worked under the watchful eye of our brilliant editor, Sam Smith. Thanks are

also due to Philippa Milnes-Smith for getting the Illustrated World moving, and

to Francesca Wilks for tea and moral support.

Table of Contents

- Copyright
- Title
- The Illustrated World of Mortal Engines