The Adeptus Custodes are the elite, genetically-engineered guardians of the Emperor of Mankind in the Warhammer 40k universe, tasked with the protection of the Imperial Palace and the Golden Throne on Terra. Each Custodian is a near-immortal warrior of unparalleled skill and strength, crafted to be the ultimate protectors, and they are considered the Emperor's personal bodyguards, rarely leaving his side unless the direst of threats demand their intervention.