Piplicus started off as a greenie in early May 2004, where he switched between numerous crews, including Black Sails and Imperio, before settling down in the currently flagless Dawn Traders crew. There, he subscribed, and quickly rose to the rank of senior officer. However, after an incident with a particularly obstinate greenie who then went on to complain to the captain of the time, Kaaky, he was thrown out of the crew. Kaaky believed that Dawn Traders was a crew who was respectful to all, and maintained that respect was paramount. However, this comment would haunt her in the future.