Changes

More than just exceptional fighters, Shield-Captains are highlyintelligent and tactically gifted commanders, ableto read the ebb and flow of the wider war at a glance anddirect their forces accordingly. They know neither fear nor self-doubt, and can appeararrogant and aloof to other warriors of the Imperium. This is amisconception however for Shield-Captains are untroubled bysuch self-serving notions as ego. They are absolute realists,fully aware of the stakes involved in the wars they wage. Nonetheless they do not lack charisma. Rather, they exude it. To the common soldiery of the Imperium thesegilded figures seem to have stepped from the pages of religiousscripture. Their presence fills faithful men witheuphoria, banishing fears and doubts, replacing themwith the absolute certainty that the Emperor watches over hisservants and will preserve their souls should they fall in battle thatday. Shield-Captains are also master diplomats, well versed in theintricacies of Imperial high society, privy to secrets and traditionsthat allow them to charm, inspire, threaten and manipulate asrequired to see their will done.{{Fn|9a}}

In battle, Shield-Captains typically lead a detachment{{fn|1a}} or squad of Custodes.{{fn|3}} It is not uncommon to see a multiple Shield-Captains in battle, nor is it for one to command others- groupings such as the [[Golden Brothers]] or the [[Heralds Three]] have won remarkable renown through their impressive accomplishments. This does not result in any tension, for the Shield-Captains are frank in discussing their respective merits and quick to recognize their own strengths and weaknesses.{{Fn|9a}}