Private On one’s belly

[Brodan Dobson]

Shame.

Brodan’s uncle Arken Dobson and his father, Omar Dobson had always warned Brodan of the terrible plague of shame. He hated the feeling. He deserved so much more.

His life in the Elysium Empire had been lack lustre, and embarrassing. He had been wrongfully charged with negligence of duty for leading an entire imperial fleet to defeat against a heavily fortified pirate stronghold. His execution of the insubordinate Alro Doreen had gotten him banished too. It was a disgusting mess, and a disgrace on the Elysium Empire in Brodan’s mind!

The banishment had made things worse. He had been sent to the Sakuran Empire to serve under Kimiko Taiyou in his banishment, only to be humiliated before his charge had been killed in the battle of Tython. He had nothing now. No, he was nothing now! No master, no rank, no family, and nothing but shame to accompany his incredible, wounded pride. He hated the feeling, hated everyone, and hated himself!

He had freedom now, at least. Nothing of value to accompany that freedom, of course, but he had his education, his name, and his will to thrive. He was determined to gain what he lost back. To gain his status, and become powerful once again! And once that power was his, he would make his enemies regret his humiliation!

They would know his shame!

Brodan stepped off of the rickety old shuttle and onto the hangar deck of FDS Predator and immediately, crisply saluted the deck officer, “Permission to come aboard! My name is Brodan Dobson and I have an appointment with the High Regent! Please take me there at once!”

Marlon Sularen

 

[Marlon Sularen]

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O N_O N E' S_B E L L Y

FINAL DAWN
FDS PREDATOR, UNKNOWN REGIONS

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Watching from afar, Colonel Rackham watched as Brodan Dobson arrived within one of the large ventral hangars of the FDS Predator in some rusty old shuttle, exiting from the shuttle and proceeding to speak to a deck officer in a semi-arrogant tone. Of-course this was not a surprise. According to the Politorate's Files on Brodan, he was a Self-entitled, arrogant and stubborn person whose arrogance and stubbornness had cost him his career within the Elysium Empire. Even though Brodan had his flaws, even a man like him could be transformed into a sharp tool in which could bring misfortune upon the enemies of the Final Dawn. Others would not see that, but the High Regent did. Broden's banishment presented an opportunity to further advance the High Regent's plans, and Sularen was not the type of person to turn down new opportunities.

Escorted by a few 439th Legion Sith Troopers, Colonel Rackham proceeded to walk towards the disgraced Dobson, greeting him once he finished speaking to the deck officer. "Ah, Mr. Brodan Dobson. I'm Colonel Rackham of the Politorate, aide to the High Regent. I will be escorting you to the Regent's Office." he said in a calm and polite tone. The Colonel was quite curious to see how the meeting between the High Regent and the disgraced member of the Dobson Family would play out, considering Brodan's personality. The last time Sularen had met a man baring a similar personality to Broden, it hadn't ended well. But hopefully Rackhm would prove himself to be a reasonable man despite his somewhat wild personality.

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Tags | Brodan Dobson ​

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[Brodan Dobson]

Brodan made eye contact with Colonel Rackham, but otherwise maintained his stance at attention. He hated being called mister Dobson, and he wanted more than anything to hold a commissioned rank once again. He held his posture as a means to drive home the fact that he was, in fact, every bit as militarily cultured as the Colonel. With a clipped, and well practice tone of an imperialist navy officer, he replied, “yes, thank you, Colonel. Please lead the way at once.”

He then followed Colonel Rackham and his red-clad troopers through the myriad of corridors, tramways, and turbolifts. Brodan paid no mind to the lowly stormtroopers that escorted them, but he briefly wondered how the man could navigate such a massive vessel without so much as the aid of a mouse droid. But Brodan already knew such a question was just silly. The Colonel’s entire career was likely tied to this ship for quite some time now, and, even despite the immense size of the vessel, such knowledge would be second nature to him. The man’s familiarity with the ship did, however, suggest that the he was not just some ordinary wog that rotated in and out of postings and tours, which signified a role of higher importance than the average colonel. Brodan made note of this, wondering if he should be trying to network with the man. If there was any kind of future with the Final Dawn, Brodan would need connections.

Brodan, Rackham, and their entourage reached the door to their final destination. Brodan felt the sudden urge to knock on the door and announce himself, but he held back as best as he could. He did not wish to seem desperate at this time, so instead he kept his stance shoulder width apart, set his shoulders back, chin in the air and clasped his thumbs behind himself, standing at-ease.

And he waited to be invited inside…

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Marlon Sularen

 

[Marlon Sularen]

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O N_O N E' S_B E L L Y

FINAL DAWN
FDS PREDATOR, UNKNOWN REGIONS

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After a few minutes, Colonel Rackham along with Brodan and their escort would arrive at the door leading into the High Regent's Office with the Colonel soon entering the office first while signaling the Ex-Commodore of the Elysium Navy to follow suit, while the 439th Legion Sith Troopers stood outside the room. In order to get to the Office, they first had to pass through a small hallway which not only connected Sularen's Office with the Main Hallway outside, but also led to the High Regent's private dojo, and personal quarters among other rooms. Eventually Rackham and Brodan would soon reach a second door which would lead straight to Sularen's Office, with Rackham once more taking the lead in entering the room.

"My lord. I've brought your guest, Brodan Dobson to you as you requested." Colonel said as he entered the room. "Thank you, Colonel." Sularen said in response. He then caught a glimpse of Dobson who still remained in the smaller hallway near the entrance to his office. "Please join us, Mr.Dobson and take a seat" Sularen said while point out to a chair located at the opposite side of the High Regent's desk. "We have alot to discuss about your potential employment in the Final Dawn, and more" he proclaimed. Soon enough, Brodan would soon become yet another asset in the High Regent's never-ending struggle to bring down his many foes and take what he been promised to him by Solipsis all those years ago.

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Tags | Brodan Dobson ​

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[Brodan Dobson]

There it is again… Mister Dobson…

Brodan’s heart had begun racing as he walked towards the larger spaces of Marlon Sularen ‘s personal section of the ship. His anticipation and anxiety twisted together as he had tried to absorb as much detail as he could. A dojo, office, private quarters, and other rooms of convenience. Being a Dobson, Brodan had received lessons from his uncle Arken like the rest of his family. One of those lessons had been to read as much about a potential customer as you could before you try to sell them what you’re pitching. The layout, the amenities, and the fact that this entire area was dedicated to the High Regent over his subordinates spoke of one predominant facet of Marlon Sularen ’s personality; Supremacy.

And as they had reached the High Regent’s office, Brodan took note of how Colonel Rackham had addressed his superior; My Lord.

Brodan felt a little silly, gleaning these details as he did. In truth, this type of man was the only type of being that could ever be suitable to commanding a military arm of a nation such as the Brotherhood of the Maw. It should have been obvious, but to observe it in person was admittedly, a little intimidating. His immediate instinct had been to rapidly start calculating everything he could potentially be accused of and to catalogue every possible excuse he could think of.

His comprehensive list of excuses stopped compiling the moment Marlon Sularen mentioned employment, and other things that he wanted to discuss.

Ah.

Brodan had guessed on the flight here that one of many potential reasons the High Regent had invited him to a face-to-face meeting was to carefully interrogate Brodan. At this point, it was still only an educated guess, but it was narrowing down. But, like a Dobson, Sularen likely knew the importance of dangling a meluron to make a deal. Brodan wouldn’t offer everything he knew right up front, since he needed a commission, but Brodan was certainly willing to play ball. As uncle Arken always said, “Nothing is free, ESPECIALLY when you want it to be”

“Thank you, My Lord.” Brodan replied carefully as he accepted the chair. He chose to use the title that Rackham had just used, hoping that it was appropriate, and that it would please Sularen. As he settled into the chair, he took care not to look too comfortable as he spoke, “I admit, I was quite surprised when I saw your invitation. And I’m pleased to hear that you are willing to discuss… employment. This must mean that you know a fair bit about my situation, who I am, and what I might want. But I will admit, I don’t entirely know what you want, if I’m not being too forward, sir. So, may I ask, why you are interested in my services?”

 

[Marlon Sularen]

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O N_O N E' S_B E L L Y

FINAL DAWN
FDS PREDATOR, UNKNOWN REGIONS

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After Sularen finished speaking, Brodan would proceed to thank the High Regent while addressing him as 'my lord' as he sat down, before speaking and asking the High Regent for why he was interested in him. Once Brodan finished speaking, Sularen would proceed to speak first addressing Colonel Rackham who was still present within the Office. "Colonel you are no longer needed here, you're dismissed." the High Regent said. "Thank you sir." The Colonel simply said in response while nodding before turning around and proceeding to exit the Sularen's office, leaving both the High Regent and the disgraced Ex-Commodore of the Elysium Imperial Navy alone.

"Also i would prefer if you would call be sir rather then my lord. I feel that it is more appropriate and it is even rare that my own subordinates call me by that title." Sularen said calling back to how Brodan had addressed him. Sularen did not like the title 'my lord' considering at how Sith Lords were addressed too by their subordinates especially Sularen under Solipsis. Sir was more appropriate and professional, especially in an Neo-Imperial environment. Anyways upon clarifying that matter, Sularen decided that it would be best to return at the matter at hand. Why he had taken an interest in the disgraced Brodan Dobson.

"Anyways. Back to your question. The reason for why i am interested in your services is simple. I am in need of capable officers for my future plans to bring the Final Dawn into the spotlight as a rising power in the galaxy, and your resume is quite impressive. Of course I've heard of the fiasco that occurred during the Elysium Empire's Skirmish with the Forces of the Ekun Vagabond and while the Final Dawn operates with a strict hierarchy and a strong emphasis on discipline, i usually make exceptions especially if positive results are achieved at the end of the day despite any negative qualities one might have"

Sularen paused for a few seconds before continuing once more. "There is also a more personal reason for why i sought you out. We both share the experience of being disgraced by nations we once served, nations whom were dedicated too, whom we were loyal to, and we were both stabbed in the back by said nations. This is not only an offer to regain your former glory as a rising star, but to also gain something very few are willing to give you, the opportunity of revenge against those who have wronged you. As i was once promised revenge against my foes, i am now promising you your own vengeance against yours." Sularen proclaimed.

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Tag | Brodan Dobson ​

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[Brodan Dobson]

Brodan shot colonel Rackham a subtle, polite, yet awkward nod as the man was dismissed. He hoped to be able to seek connections soon, and hopefully Rackham was a viable candidate.

"Also i would prefer if you would call be sir rather then my lord. I feel that it is more appropriate and it is even rare that my own subordinates call me by that title."

“I… um… yes, um, Sir!” Brodan began to stammer, and then immediately followed up with, “My apologies, sir, I was only following the Colonel’s lead” and then he grimaced visibly as he realized that his first response had been to throw the Colonel under the speeder-bus. Perhaps he could find connections somewhere else now…

"Anyways. Back to your question. The reason for why i am interested in your services is simple. I am in need of capable officers for my future plans to bring the Final Dawn into the spotlight as a rising power in the galaxy, and your resume is quite impressive. Of course I've heard of the fiasco that occurred during the Elysium Empire's Skirmish with the Forces of the Ekun Vagabond and while the Final Dawn operates with a strict hierarchy and a strong emphasis on discipline, i usually make exceptions especially if positive results are achieved at the end of the day despite any negative qualities one might have"

Brodan’s heart began to hammer in his chest with a combination of rage and fear as he caught the implied mixture of praise and accusations. Instinctively, he opened his mouth to explain his actions and he awkwardly rubbed the back of his neck. It took him a moment to recall his exact list of reasons for why his court martial had been unjust, starting with how he had been assigned old, sub-par military assets to complete his mission. But all he managed to get out was “Um… yeah, that was… well…” and the High Regent seemed to move the conversation along.

"There is also a more personal reason for why i sought you out. We both share the experience of being disgraced by nations we once served, nations whom were dedicated too, whom we were loyal to, and we were both stabbed in the back by said nations. This is not only an offer to regain your former glory as a rising star, but to also gain something very few are willing to give you, the opportunity of revenge against those who have wronged you. As i was once promised revenge against my foes, i am now promising you your own vengeance against yours."

Those words, spoken by High Regen Marlon Sularen , struck right at home with Brodan. Those words, echoed the very thoughts that Brodan had been repeating in his mind for the past couple years, the nightmares that haunted him every night, and they penetrated the rage that burned inside his chest. The man before him was offering him everything he could ever want, right here, right now. It stirred him deeply — to imagine himself wielding the power of the Final Dawn against his enemies! The fools that wronged him, and punished him, degrading his worth! He had to have all this!

He failed to contain himself! The emotions he felt were too great! He shot up from his chair and slammed both palms on top of Marlon Sularen ’s desk, with pure hunger — no famine, burning in his eyes! “Sir! Give me a command! Give me a Commission! Give me a place amongst your regency, and I can personally promise you that we will take our revenge together! I swear it to you! Make me yours, give me the power to destroy the fools that rule the Imperium, and I will lead your forces to victory!”

 

[Marlon Sularen]

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O N_O N E' S_B E L L Y

FINAL DAWN
FDS PREDATOR, UNKNOWN REGIONS

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Once Sularen finished speaking, Brodan suddenly lit up with enthusiasm like a child. It was quite unprofessional of him but yet again it seemed that the High Regent had fully won him over. Although Brodan was a little bit too excited for Sularen's liking, after all even though Brodan had a lot of potential, his tendency to be reckless still left his usefulness to the Final Dawn quite questionable. Would he end up doing the same thing he had done before in the Elysium Empire or would be prove to be a better man then he was before. Even though Sularen offered him revenge he still needed to prove himself as a capable officer first, and the High Regent had the perfect idea on how that could happen.

"Please Dobson. I understand your enthusiasm but it is quite a bit unprofessional, after all we are Military Officers. For now i will provide you with a command and a place within my Regime but not an official commission just yet. I need to be certain that there will be no repetition of the incident that had occurred during that fateful confrontation with the forces of Ekun Vagabond meaning you will have to prove yourself in the first place. But fortunately for you i have a task in which i will require your skills and which could bring you one step closer to your revenge, quite literally. But first i want to know if you are willing to accept this arrangement and if you are up to the task at hand. So what say you, Dobson." Sularen proclaimed once more.

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Tag | Brodan Dobson ​

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[Brodan Dobson]

"Please Dobson. I understand your enthusiasm but it is quite a bit unprofessional, after all we are Military Officers. For now i will provide you with a command and a place within my Regime but not an official commission just yet. I need to be certain that there will be no repetition of the incident that had occurred during that fateful confrontation with the forces of Ekun Vagabond meaning you will have to prove yourself in the first place. But fortunately for you i have a task in which i will require your skills and which could bring you one step closer to your revenge, quite literally. But first i want to know if you are willing to accept this arrangement and if you are up to the task at hand. So what say you, Dobson."

Brodan felt total embarrassment as Marlon Sularen called him out for his outrageous display of emotion. After everything Brodan had endured, he simply couldn’t help himself, and he immediately regretted it. He sat down sheepishly as the High Regent continued to speak, and Brodan listened to his words carefully. Very carefully…

Something prodded Brodan’s mind the way Sularen talked about Brodan’s so-called “failure”. He talked about how he would not give Brodan an actual commission until Brodan proved himself. And suddenly, the realization of his current situation hit him like a ton of rocks.

He was allegedly guilty of war crimes.

The Elysium Imperium — Brodan’s old nation — was an enemy of the Final Dawn.

The Stormtroopers on the way here.

Brodan should have figured this out before he even… he finished his thoughts out loud, “I’m not really your guest, am I? The moment I stepped onto your ship… You’re not offering me a job, are you? You’re either offering me parole, or incarceration. I’m either your prisoner, or your slave, aren’t I?”

Oddly enough, what surprised Brodan was the fact that he wasn’t as surprised by his theory as he should have been. Between his humiliation, his banishment, and his servitude, parole wasn’t actually any worse… but he still wanted to know before he answered the man’s question.