Pankratiy Lev, also known as "Victorious Lion" in the universal language, was born in a poor, sparsely populated star system ruled by an anarchic faction. Growing up in difficult circumstances, Pankratiy became a violent and selfish individual who chose a life of crime. As Pankratiy's criminal activities escalated, he found himself in trouble with the law, and was forced to flee the system.

Lev has been on the run for years, and eventually ended up in the Hip 97950 system. There, he took refuge in Chamberlain's Rest, a surface port known for harboring wanted individuals. With no other options, Pankratiy started working odd jobs at the port, eventually building a reputation as a ruthless mercenary. His reputation and his connections eventually lead him to the life of a smuggler, a life that would allow him to continue his criminal activities while also keeping a low profile. Never staying in one place for too long, he always makes sure to keep an eye out for opportunities to help out the independent factions he cares about.