Building-Side Communities

Rapture-Timeline

# **About**

Building-Side Communities (BSCs) are innovative, resilient, and self-sustaining communities of people who have constructed makeshift homes, businesses, and infrastructure on the outer sides of tall buildings in large cities (Specifically Agane City). This was a popular way to live in the Rapture-Timeline. These communities emerged as a response to the ground-level poisonous gas crisis (known as C-GAS) that rendered the interiors of buildings and ground-level spaces uninhabitable. BSCs have developed their own systems of trade, governance, and transportation, creating unique and dynamic societies in the vertical realm.

The rise of Building-Side Communities can be traced back to early 2023, when a widespread poisonous gas crisis forced urban populations to seek alternative living arrangements. As the gas spread through the interiors and ground levels of buildings, resourceful individuals discovered that the vertical surfaces of tall buildings offered a relatively safe environment. Early BSCs were rudimentary, with makeshift homes and businesses built primarily from shipping containers and scrap materials. Over time, these communities evolved into sophisticated ecosystems of interconnected spaces, with residents adapting to the challenges of vertical living.

# **Economy**

The economy of Building-Side Communities is predominantly based on bartering and trading. With conventional currencies rendered largely obsolete due to the crisis, BSC residents have adopted a system of exchanging goods, services, and resources. Common trade items include food, clothing, tools, and weapons. Larger communities tend to have more developed economies, with designated trading hubs and a greater variety of goods and services available. Some BSCs have even developed their own local currencies, further facilitating trade.

# **Governance**

BSC governance varies widely, with some communities functioning under anarchy, while others have established more structured systems of leadership and law enforcement. Many BSCs have a council or group of leaders responsible for making decisions and maintaining order. Smaller communities often have less formal governance structures, with disputes resolved on a case-by-case basis. In some instances, larger BSCs have formed alliances or rivalries with neighboring communities, which can lead to cooperation, trade, or conflict.

# **Transportation**

Transportation within and between Building-Side Communities is primarily achieved through homemade flying vehicles or repurposed helicopters. Given the scarcity of conventional fuels and the inherent dangers of navigating the poisonous gas zones, these vehicles are often powered by alternative energy sources and require skilled pilots. Rope bridges and zip lines have also been employed to connect adjacent buildings, providing a more straightforward means of transportation for short distances.

# **Culture and Lifestyle**

The culture and lifestyle of Building-Side Communities are shaped by the unique challenges and opportunities of vertical living. Resourcefulness, adaptability, and a strong sense of community are highly valued traits among BSC residents. As a result, communal spaces like cafes and gathering areas play a vital role in fostering social cohesion and facilitating communication. The constant need for innovation and resource management has also led to the development of unique artistic, musical, and culinary traditions that reflect the creativity and resilience of BSC inhabitants.

# **List**

### **EKAN**

*Main article: EKAN\_(BSC)*
EKAN (ЕКДЛ) is a BSC located in Agane City on a tall building. The community is rather big as a chunk of the upper building is accessable from the inside.

### **Sylter**

*Main article: Sylter\_(BSC)*
Sylter is a small BSC located in Agane City on a tall building. It was created by members of EKAN who broke away to form their own community.

### **Vannah**

*Main article: Vannah\_(BSC)*
Vannah is a BSC located in Keeptown on a tall building with some inhabitable interiors.

### **IRON**

*Main article: IRON\_(BSC)*
IRON is a small BSC located in Keeptown on a building relatively low to the ground, making it a risky living place.