Bart Garsus is a young man from the planet Taraak, where he holds the status of a first-class citizen. He comes from a wealthy and prominent family that owns a successful food production company, though the quality of the products themselves is a point of some contention. Despite his privileged background, his initial behavior is far from refined; he is portrayed as easily excitable, weak, and notably cowardly, often seeking to run away from difficulties and making a fuss over minor injuries. This persona serves as a primary source of comic relief, especially in the early stages of the story.

Bart’s motivations shift significantly due to a key event early in The Second Stage. While on a polluted planet, he shows genuine compassion for a terminally ill little girl who is entertained by his exaggerated, self-aggrandizing stories. When a Harvest ship threatens the planet, he displays true courage for the first time, acting on her behalf to fight off the enemy almost single-handedly using the Nirvana’s weapons. However, during his absence, the girl dies from her illness. She had been making a doll in his likeness but was unable to finish the hair. In a profound act of mourning and remembrance, Bart shaves his own head to match the unfinished doll and carries the keepsake with him, an act that permanently alters his appearance and marks a moment of significant personal growth.

Within the story’s setting, Bart’s primary role is the helmsman and navigator of the pirate ship Nirvana, a position that is somewhat thrust upon him when the ship itself seems to choose him for the job. Despite his initial lack of confidence, he becomes uniquely capable of piloting the vessel and utilizing its weapon systems. His key relationships evolve over time. He develops strong romantic feelings for a fellow crew member known as BC, and even after discovering her secret, he remains completely undeterred and continues to pursue a relationship with her. He also holds significant affection for his superior officer, the sub-commander Buzam A. Calessa.

While he largely retains his role as a comic relief character, Bart matures as the series progresses. He moves from being a self-serving coward to someone capable of decisive action and self-sacrifice for the sake of others. His notable abilities, beyond his inherited wealth and social standing, include his aptitude as the Nirvana’s helmsman. He contributes to the successive transformations of the ship and is able to operate its advanced weaponry, often playing a crucial role in combat situations despite his fearful nature. He is also known for his persistent, though often unsuccessful, attempts to promote his family’s food products to his shipmates.