Theoktistos

   Arguably the most important chief minister of the ninth century. He was a eunuch (q.v.) and perhaps a member of the exkoubitores (q.v.) when, in 820, he organized the assassination of Leo V (q.v.). He was rewarded by Michael II (q.v.) with the title of patrikios and the office of chartoularios tou kanikleiou (qq.v.). Theophilos made him magistros and logothetes tou dromou (qq.v.). He served as regent to Michael III (q.v.) until he was deposed and killed in 855.