Imperial Guard

The Imperial Guards are the Emperor's elite personal bodyguards, being charged with protecting him from any and all threats. Dressed in crimson robes and fitted with sinister helmets, they are rarely far from his side and their presence inspires fear into his subjects and enemies alike, for it is a reflection of the Emperor's will.

Background
Each member has had the privilege of being selected by Darth Sidious from only the most successful Stormtroopers found in the ranks. Criteria for admission into the Imperial Guard include great strength and intelligence, along with an unwavering devotion to the Empire - especially to the Emperor. Despite their almost constant presence alongside the Emperor, very little is known about the workings of the Imperial Guard. The unit is so secretive that suggestions as to its numbers have ranged from a mere fifty to tens of thousands Although trained in the use of many weapons, the Imperial Guard typically wield Force pikes, which they combine with hand-to-hand attacks during combat. They are also somewhat resistant to the Force, allowing them to withstand Force powers that would easily dispatch regular Stormtroopers.

Though mostly seen in a ceremonial role, the Emperor had other uses as well for the Imperial Guards: executioners, assassins and escorts for people other than Sidious himself - whether to defend them per his interests or to ensure their loyalty to him.

Specialized cadres

 * Shadow Guard - Imperial Guards clad in grey-black attires sent to hunt down enemies of the Emperor, such as Jedi Knights or other Force-wielders. They had a strong connection to the Dark Side and were trained in brandishing it by Darth Vader.
 * Senate Guard - Imperial Guards clad in blue-black attires accompanying representatives of the Imperial Senate, both to keep them safe and "sway" them from any treacherous thoughts against the Emperor.