Tieradeff "Def" Jaggeron was born and raised on Ailon, among his own people. He was raised to praise military training and skill in combat above all else. He pursued membership in the Ailon Nova Guard, but was denied admission. He departed his homeworld in an emotional state, vowing not to return until he had proved his strength. Eventually, he joined the crew of Ragnar Starflight and the Purgatory's Escape as a security officer, which provided him with the rank of Lieutenant. While there, he became close friends with Omwati officer Jex Sirri.