Born to one of the oldest Abrendese families in Sherok, Ben can recite his family lineage back to his ancestors who first crossed the Chronoscape some five centuries ago. He exudes a privilege born of noble blood. His family made their fortune first in shipping, and then in extensive land development, and now it's a rare industry that doesn't include the St. James' family in some regard. Ben was born one of five siblings, and his extended family is large enough that he can't quite name all his cousins (without the help of a very large, very tangled family tree).

Unlike his numerous blue-blooded relatives, however, there is an awkwardness to Ben. In a family known--and boastfully aware--of their penchant for bonding to Light dragons, he lacks the charismatic and charming nature that seems to come so easily to his family members. While he can manage a good showing, he prefers his own company and the quiet solitude of his workshop. His clever mind earned early praise from his family, but his inability to turn his attention to business left them confused. His endless string of new gadgets and inventions earned a tolerant but dismissive appraisal. Ben is well aware that he contributes little to the family name; he spends much of his time in the large conservatory of his family's winter home in the city, doing his best to keep out of sight and find something of merit in his work (and perhaps in himself).

Ben is an odd combination of vanity and self-deprecation. He tolerates no disrespect towards his siblings or family name, but he does not feel he deserves the same consideration. He is vain when it comes to showcasing his family influence and strength, but he cultivates little praise for himself. Fiercly proud and defensive of his dragon. Completely unable to stand up for himself, especially if one of his siblings is the one denigrating him. Oblivious to the fact that his wealth--and the somewhat egregious display of it--can make others uncomfortable. Though quite clever with his hands, lacks some of the common sense and real life skills that would help him if he ever stepped outside the gilded safety net of his family.

He has trained extensively in diplomacy and is a deft enough hand at social interaction, when the situation requires it. He's attractive enough that he never wants for a dance partner. His own interest lies in gears and machines, but he is clever enough to understand that he is a pawn in the much larger game of his family's empire. He is willing to play the part as required.