Talon Karrde was a smuggler and information broker who dominated the underworld market in information. He began his career in the organization of Jorj Car’das, where he moved quickly through the ranks to become one of Car’das’s top lieutenants. When Car’das disappeared, Karrde quickly and quietly took over the organization to avoid internal feuding. Known as an honest and honorable man, Karrde kept a low profile despite his lofty underworld position.

Karrde had a passion for information and felt it could be a powerful asset, sometimes more important than brute force. He felt himself to be a sophisticated and genteel individual and avoided violence whenever possible, but was not averse to engaging in it when necessary. He had a strong sense of humor, leading to his tendency to place puns in the names of his ships, and frequently in his pseudonyms as well.

Karrde did not believe in displays of wealth and power, instead preferring to remain inconspicuous and avoid drawing possible foes. He did not hold strong personal grudges, realizing that foes could become allies if it was profitable; he was friendly and charismatic toward friends and enemies alike. Despite this—or perhaps because of it—he was perceived as calculating and mercenary by many of his peers. He also had no desire to ally himself with either side of the Galactic Civil War, instead playing both sides off each other.

Karrde lived by a strict code of honor, providing protection for all who were his guests regardless of how he felt about them and was determined to keep his word. He detested slavery and kidnapping and refused to engage in either. This was recognized by his peers, who felt him to be as close to trustworthy as a fringer could be.

Karrde was fiercely loyal to his personnel and dedicated to their protection. When he gave his word, he was absolutely dedicated to keeping it, even at heavy personal cost to himself. He treated his employees extremely well, earning their respect and devotion in turn. He was known as someone who should not be crossed, and his retribution was feared. He would not tolerate any mistreatment of his people whatsoever and extracted heavy punishments for harm done to members of his organization. He would not hire bounty hunters, however, preferring to do his own dirty work.