Merghal, a Cathar of the male persuasion, existed as a criminal during the era of the Galactic War. Following the Eternal Empire conquest at some undefined time, the Galactic Republic apprehended him. As a consequence, he was compelled to serve as a Private within the Dead Man's Legion, which was a component of the Republic Army comprised of male convicts. In 3631 BBY, the Dead Man's Legion saw deployment on Nar Shaddaa under the command of Provost Marshal Fideltin Rusk. Merghal attempted to project an image of strength when interacting with Rusk, but ultimately relented when Rusk presented the threat of execution by firing squad.