Swinkle was born to a very religious household in the town of Robus. At an early age, his parents and relatives exposed him to the teachings of Pious. Many of his friends were members of Pious’ society, and he joined them in all of their religious functions. Everyone close to him preached the goodness of compassion and diplomacy, and they taught him the art of self-defense rather than fighting. After years of watching his friends and family come of age and join the Benevolent Healers, the seminary allowed him to join, too, when he turned twelve years old.
While at the seminary, Swinkle immersed himself in his studies. He wanted to impress his elders, so he studied the scriptures of Pious endlessly. He quickly learned all of his prayers and kept a journal of everything he discovered about Pious and his ways. His dedication so impressed the elders that they allowed him to begin his two-year mission of goodwill a year early.
While traveling from Robus to Valkala, Marcus and his men stopped him. After a brief interrogation, he decided to join their group, and help them find the Treasure of the Land.