Dixon Dadeferron was the owner of the Kail Ranges and a critic of the Corporate Sector Authority. He was the father of two sons, Trevim and Torm, the former of whom would inherit the Ranges in the event of Dixon's death. In the wake of the death of his sons' mother, the Dixon, Trevim and Torm visited Maryo, a resort world. At this time, unbeknownst to Dixon, Torm was approached by agents of the Authority and agreed to spy on Dixon and Trevim for them.