Custodi
The Custodi is the leader of a Castellan, commanding 100 soldiers, and 20 logistical assistants. This position is the first step on the road of the career military officer, and presents opportunity for a young soldier to distinguish themselves from the rank and file. On the other hand, many are the poor soul passed over for advancement who languish for years as a Custodi.
Qualifications
A soldier must complete two years of training, and four years of mandatory service before they can be considered for the position of Custodi.
While there is no official application, it doesn't hurt for a soldier to make declaration to their Vexillum of their intention to become one, as such boldness often pays off.
Appointment
Custodi are appointed directly from their Vexillum when an opening appears. This process is very informal, and the Vexillum is free to choose whomever they wish from their Crusade, assuming they have met the four year service requirement. Most often a Castellans Optio will be appointed if the Vexillum has no one in particular in mind.
Duties
The Custodi leads their Castellan into combat, receiving orders from the signals of the Vexillum. They must maintain order and discipline among their troops, and organize the logistic personnel for their Castellan. In battle the Custodi takes the lead at the head of the formation, leading by example into the clash.
Responsibilities
Appointment of the Castellans Optio.
The Custodi over sees the camp of his Castellan, and makes sure armor and weapons are in combat condition.
In battle the Custodi leads the charge, listening for the signals from higher up to order his Castellan. In most cases the Custodi is receiving these orders through the Optio at the back of his formation.
Benefits
Custodi make a higher salary than the common foot soldier, and this is often enough to purchase a poor home, and put consistent if bland food on the table. When not afield with the Dominus custodi are often placed as the leaders of police forces throughout a province, which comes with a level of respect, or infamy depending on the Custodi. But in general being a Custodi is only the first step, and is only slightly better than a normal soldier.
Accoutrements & Equipment
Upon being named Custodi a soldiers breastplate is stamped with the mark of their Castellan, the first stamp of authority the soldier will gain.
Each Custodi is given a gladius to represent their command. This weapon is inscribed with four names; their own, their Vexillum, the Legate, and the Primus. Signifying their first command, the Custodi will bear this weapon forward.
Grounds for Removal/Dismissal
A Custodi who shows cowardice in the face of battle, betrays his superiors, is too lax or too harsh with his men can be stripped of rank by any of his superiors. There is a lot of leeway for the Custodi to met out punishment to his Castellan, but one is generally considered too harsh if the punishment leaves a soldier unable to fight.
Type
Civic, Military, Commissioned
Source of Authority
Their Vexillum.
Length of Term
Unless promoted a Custodi must serve for a minimum of five years before they can retire. Otherwise there is no limit on how long one can serve as Custodi.
Reports directly to
Related Organizations
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