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Of the Privateer Serpentine. As a child of six, he was taken from his parents by a pirate who robbed the transport ship he was travelling on then destroyed it. He made his escape to Tor-tu'gaa as a pre-teen. There he lived by his wits until 16 when Captain Solzarz 'recruited' him. Solarz was brutal to Balasko but taught him well. He advanced quickly because of his bravery, cunning and violence.
Belasko makes captain after Solarz has an 'accident'. He also becomes a major pirate and a continuing problem with a swift spectacular maneuver that impresses even the most hardend pirates.