Imperial Guard
In modern times, used colloquialy and derisively to describe the staff of a politician that usually acts to prevent direct communication with the politician (also called a palace guard in this context).
In 19th century France, the Imperial Guard were an originally small group of elite soldiers under the direct command of Napoleon, but grew considerably over time. They acted as his bodyguards and commandos, and he rarely used them in battle. The Guard dies, but does not surrender.
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