Imperial sovereign protector

Imperial Sovereign Protectors were the most elite cadre of guardsmen in Imperial service. These armoured and robed soldiers protected the Emperor personally. Others were deployed to guard Palpatine's interests throughout the Galaxy, including the Imperial Citadel on Byss, and other palaces and monastaries. A number of Sovereign Protectors were stationed aboard the Star Dreadnought Eclipse.

Only the best of the elite Imperial Royal Guard were specially chosen to become Sovereign Protectors. They endured years of selection procedures and training aimed at achieving perfection in soldiering. Extreme standards were set for combat fitness, stamina, strength, dexterity, mental acuity, reaction time, loyalty and intelligence. Finally, each Sovereign Protector would receive rudimentary training to wield the dark side of the Force &mdash; although not enough to provide independence or stoke ambition. The most exceptional Sovereign Protectors were eventually eligible for training as Dark Jedi.