Magan is from a family of common Corsairs. His father had two fast vessels, and caused mayhem in the main shipping lanes. Profit came first, amusement second. They were not natural killers, but cared not what it took to attain comfortable lives. Coin, jewels, cloth, slaves, anything was acceptable. Any lies, any back-stabbing, any corruption was in order.

While his three younger brothers followed almost completely in their father's footsteps, Magan was a little different. That he took time and effort to train in the craft of ship-building set him one step apart. He was prepared to work hard for what he wanted. And even worse, he foolishly had some sense of honour. Granted, it was not a lot, but it was there. Killing children, folk bent with age, or those crippled was beyond him. Any worthy opponent he would set into with much relish. He was very good, very swift with a sword. 

In due course he came across Naraal, Captain of the Shakalgimil. He thought him more a kindred spirit than most, though the Captain had a measure of Black Numenorian blood. He worked for him, first as a general crewman, then after a very few years, as First Mate. Given some of the close calls Naraal had with Gondorian and Elven vessels, he more than proved his worth executing repairs. Naraal has said Magan could rebuild the ship from scratch if need be.