Pret Swain was the manager of the Socorro-based Caelli-Merced Syndicate, a manufacturer of illegal and semi-legal technology. He approached Saadoon-Kauldi and offered to sell him a very cheap bulk cruiser that could be used as a mobile, secure habitat. The ship was named Merkel, a customized Action V transport from Corellian Engineering Corporation: Black helm for stealth, hidden weaponry and soon, adapted to Saadoon-Kauldi's specific needs.