Kerel during the clone wars served for the republic in the merchant navy. Lying about his age to join at the age of 15, he was placed on a safe route, running ammo and weapons from the core to Kamino. However, as part of a routine run the ship was attacked by pirates. Despite working in cargo, he used one of the weapons they were transporting against the pirates. Now 17 he was noticed for his skills when in a tight spot and was promoted to the merchant navies smuggling core.

Serving as part of the security team he was trained in gunnery and shooting. He served on a ship which ran weapons to rebel groups and supplies to encircled forces. Serving mostly in separatist space, he came to get to know parts of the outer-rim. During this time he became close with the ships captain, Jodgan Holdor.

In the final days of the war, Kerel saw the betrayal of the jedi and end of the war over the holonet. The merchant navy was disbanded, and Kerel was now left on the street. Many of his fellow service men joined the imperial navy, including his captain. However, when Kerel tried to join he was denied as it was discovered he had lied about his age to join the republic navy.

Struggling to find work, a pilot he served with gave him an opportunity to use his smuggling skills. Joining a small smuggling gang running spice in the outer rim, his early career was relatively uneventful. However, his gang turned in him during an imperial inspection, selling him and making their escape whilst Kerel had been sent onto their ship to disable their tractor beam. Now imprisoned, Kerel seeks revenge on his old crew.