Ryan Clarke was born in the Federal System of Vega to a family of Interstellar Trade Pilots of agricultural goods. When he gained his Pilots Federation Licence he set out to help his family in their trade business. After many years of delivering agricultural goods from Vega he finally decided to set out on his own and become something more. After some time spent being a trader and mercenary for hire he eventually made his way to the Hikenk where he took a liking to the system, reminding him of his home and times as a simple trader. He was eventually hired by Vice President Hank Sweeney of the Retro Faction Of Voltrigones after their Takeover of Hikenk to help in their future endeavours.

After some time working for Hank Sweeney he eventually gained the nickname of "Penguin". It's up for debate how he earned the nickname due to multiple stories surrounding it but rumour has it that it involved a lot of fish.