Commander Sha'kel was a combatant of the Yuuzhan Vong species, and he held command over the slaveship known as Tsam P'ah. His high position was indicated via the crimson armor he wore, as well as the fleshy growths extending from his upper face.
The Commander requested that Nina Galfridian join him for a meal within his throne room; however, her offspring, Kaye, appeared instead. To demonstrate the Yuuzhan Vong's acceptance of suffering, he impaled her with a coufee. During a revolt of slaves spearheaded by Kaye, Arbeloa severed his head. Arbeloa then fashioned his head into a hat, which he subsequently wore.