Blackbell Family

The Blackbells rank among Ostania's most established elite households. Their company, Blackbell Heavy Industries, sometimes called the Blackbell Company, has manufactured weaponry for the national military for decades, having furnished artillery for the army during Ostania's First East-West War of Unification with Westalis and, by all indications, during the second conflict as well.

Influence follows the family's money. The Blackbell name carries public recognition across Ostania, enough that Becky can book an entire department store so she and her friend Anya Forger can shop undisturbed. Becky was born six years ahead of Operation Strix's launch, and her father dotes on her without restraint. A large household staff serves the family, but one employee stands apart: Martha Marriott, who has watched over Becky since infancy and acts as her personal attendant. Martha's long service has also made her familiar enough with Byron to scold him openly, most often when his judgment slips in matters involving his daughter.

Every known Blackbell carries a small bomb emblem somewhere on their person, from Byron's lapel pin to Becky's everyday hairclip and Mrs. Blackbell's earrings.

Byron Blackbell heads the household and runs Blackbell Heavy Industries as its chief executive. His wife, Mrs. Blackbell, remains a largely unseen presence. Becky, their only child, attends Eden Academy as a first-year student, where she befriends Anya. Rounding out the home is Wiesel, the dog Byron presented to Becky as a reward.