Backlund

Biodata

Geography and Districts

Backlund is divided diagonally by the Tussock River. Backlund Bridge and ferry services connect the two sides of the city. Its frequent fog, rain, and industrial pollution contrast sharply with the clearer weather found in some nearby suburbs. 1 146

History

Backlund’s northwestern outskirts were once part of the capital region of the Tudor-Trunsoest United Empire. Alista Tudor, the Blood Emperor, went mad there after forcibly switching Pathways, and one of George III’s Black Emperor mausoleums was later constructed near the old ruins. These events are cited as reasons for the area’s abnormal terrain and weather. 146

The city also formerly served as the headquarters of the Church of the Lord of Storms. The Church moved its holy altar to Pasū Island near the end of the previous epoch, after the establishment of the Loen Kingdom. 252

A Dream Labyrinth recreation of Backlund in 1146 depicts it as less than one-third of its later size. The Factory Borough and Dock Borough were then still wasteland, while Cherwood Borough, Hillston District, and part of the North Borough were collectively known as the Northwest District. 328

Major Events

Society and Living Conditions

Despite its enormous population and reputation for prosperity, Backlund contains extreme inequality. In the East Borough, several people may share a single room, while a bedroom accommodating ten people can be considered normal. Homeless residents, exploited women, violent drinkers, and workers exposed to white-lead dust are common sights. 433

Xio Derecha is widely trusted in the East Borough, Dock Borough, and Factory Borough. Her reputation extends from impoverished residents to factory owners and gangs, which sometimes ask her to mediate disputes. 229

The city’s social conditions also make it vulnerable to supernatural threats. Klein identifies the East Borough, Dock Borough, and Factory Borough as especially fertile ground for an evil god’s descent. 340

Politics

Duke Negan’s death divided the House of Lords and stalled several reforms, including workers’ rights measures and Poor Law revisions. At the same time, investigations into Backlund’s air pollution and the Unified Government Employees Examination continued. 641

Following George III’s death, Princess Vera Augustus was crowned Empress Vera I of Loen and Balam. She subsequently restored Mason Dere’s reputation, signaling the possible rehabilitation of the Dere family. 1458 1469

Both the New Party and Conservative Party later sought Abner Braine’s support, believing his relationship with Empress Vera and his influence in Beldan could affect the kingdom’s political balance. 1469

Culture and Education

Backlund became an important early venue for Braine Film Company productions. The Silver Moon Theater screened the full version of Backlund Impressions, which drew interest from noblewomen, politicians, merchants, teachers, and church officials for its entertainment, advertising, educational, and public-communication value. 727

A second film of Abner Braine teaching mathematics demonstrated that recorded lessons could help address teacher shortages and expand access to education. 727

Notable Locations and Institutions