Chirrut Îmwe

Biography

Early life

Chirrut Îmwe's life began on the moon of Jedha in 53 BBY, and it was there that he joined the ranks of the Guardians of the Whills alongside his longtime friend Baze Malbus. As the Clone Wars, a galactic-spanning conflict between the Confederacy of Independent Systems and the Galactic Republic from 22 BBY to 19 BBY, neared its conclusion, Steya sought out Îmwe to learn the art of zama-shiwo, a martial discipline in which he had achieved mastery. For a number of years, they practiced the forms outside of the Temple of the Kyber. However, the Clone Wars ended with the emergence of the Galactic Empire, which supplanted the Republic and began to exert its control over the galaxy.

Age of the Empire

Around 14 BBY, Îmwe sensed a disturbance within a tunnel leading towards the Temple of the Kyber. He encountered Dok-Ondar and Hondo Ohnaka after the latter's protege had been killed and they stole a kyber crystal statue. Îmwe commented to the pair that their hasty departure did not resemble the footsteps of the pious and could sense they were carrying the stolen item. He identified himself and declared that he could not permit theft in such a sacred location. When Ohnaka said he would be easily defeated because he was blind, Îmwe countered that there were other ways to see without eyes as he leapt to defend himself.

The duel continued until Dok-Ondar intervened, expressing his respect for the Guardians and noting that he was attuned to the Force enough to recognize the Ithorian's intentions were not malicious. He explained to Îmwe that the statue was one of 2,304 that lined the Temple's tunnels and that the artifact was invaluable to him as it could help solve the mystery of his parent's murder. He begged Îmwe to allow him to take the statue out of the darkness and into the light and, after a moment of consideration, Îmwe conceded and allowed the pair to leave the tunnel with the statue. In 1 BBY, Padawan Ezra Bridger entered the World Between Worlds, a realm existing between time and space, and heard Îmwe's voice within.

A Devoted Guardian

Unrest in the streets

In 1 BBY, amid the streets of Jedha City, Îmwe and his former Guardian colleague Baze Malbus encountered Silvanie Phest, an Anomid to whom he regularly provided charity in the streets so she could obtain food and water. Îmwe smiled at hearing her soft, modulated voice as it reminded him of the days when her harmonic voice would sing prayers at the Temple of the Kyber, something Îmwe missed greatly. He had previously spent many years at the Temple, and he knew that only a handful of Disciples of the Whills, Malbus and himself were all that remained to guard the city and their home. She informed Îmwe that a man was stationed along the Old Shadows near the Temple who was frightening the devoted and claiming to be a Jedi. She feared he was there to bring danger and violence which would alert the Empire and lead to the end of the Disciples and Guardians of the Whills.

Îmwe was intrigued, but Malbus did not believe Phest's claim - something Îmwe did not find surprising. He once believed Jedha held a balance, though knew when the Empire arrived, they had ruptured it in the name of order. It saddened him, and it made him all the more determined to maintain his faith in the Force and to alleviate the suffering of those around him. Îmwe agreed to assist, and despite Malbus' complaints, the pair accompanied Phest. In the streets and marketplaces, Îmwe smelt fear in the air. Occasionally, he himself felt fear but he never caught the scent from Malbus. Upon reaching their destination, Îmwe heard the man proclaiming to be a Jedi. He quietly reassured himself that he was one with the Force and extended his senses - even though he was not a Jedi or Force-sensitive, he could perceive the Force that surrounded him. Sometimes it was effortless, and other times it was difficult, but he felt the Force moving around him, binding him and the galaxy together. He felt the warmth of the light and the chill of the dark, and the further he stretched out, he felt like he could almost see. When the feeling slipped away, it did not leave him entirely, instead feeling like a lingering memory. His connection to the Force around him only increased his feeling of pain at Malbus' lack of faith.

Extending his senses through the Force once more, he determined that the man was not a Jedi. The man, Wernad, urged Îmwe to join him in opposing the Imperials. Îmwe took the man's hand and asked for his name, then held out his palm and felt Wernad's face before telling the man that his desire to fight the Empire went against what he claimed to be. As Wernad began to argue, Îmwe silenced him by asking how long he had worked in the kyber mines, a question the man had not expected. Wernad confirmed to Îmwe that his clutchmates had passed away during their time working and that he desired to make the Empire pay. Imwe told him he could not involve innocents in his plan and instructed everyone to sit. When Wernad stated he had to do something, Îmwe told him that by keeping the faith, they were doing just that.

Returning to the room they shared near the Old Market, Îmwe sat in his usual space in the room and smiled to himself as he meditated. After serving them both tarine tea, Malbus told Îmwe that he believed Wernad was not wrong with his words. Îmwe suggested that maybe Wernad was the wrong man to lead the fight, to which Malbus retorted that it was not his friend's place to decide that. Îmwe simply replied that it was no more his place than it was Malbus' to watch over him. When Malbus described the destruction the Empire had brought to Jedha, Îmwe agreed that he understood the reason for Wernad’s rage.

Stealing from the Empire

Later that night, Îmwe and Malbus concealed themselves in the midnight darkness near the LZ-Cresh landing bay, where they intended to steal weapons, medicine, food, and tea from a landspeeder that would be approaching a specific Zeta-class Heavy Cargo Shuttle. When the hauler arrived, Îmwe identified it immediately and became frustrated at Malbus who wanted to wait for confirmation. When Malbus said he was being particularly annoying that night, Îmwe remarked that there was plenty of night left to go. Eventually, Îmwe made his way into position to attract the attention of the stormtroopers in the speeder. The four stormtroopers in the speeder did not believe that Îmwe was an innocent civilian and threatened to run him down. Before they could, Malbus shot three of them before Îmwe eliminated the final trooper with his staff. The pair leapt into the speeder and Îmwe joked that he should drive as they headed to meet Denic, a local insurgent, and provide her with the stolen weapons and ammo.

The Orphanage

The pair journeyed to the Gimm sisters' orphanage where they delivered the food and medicine to Killi Gimm and her sister Kaya, who cared for the city's orphaned children. A grateful Killi served the two men tarine tea, which Îmwe gladly accepted. He rested on a stool and heard the sounds of children's laughter coming from the common room. Îmwe smiled at hearing this as it was a sound he had not heard in a long time. His smile vanished at the harsh sound of Killi coughing, which she blamed on the dust. When she told the pair her cough was only bad on some days but better on others, Îmwe asked what day it was then. She told him not to make her laugh as her cough would return. Îmwe took her hand, telling her the Force was with him and he was one with the Force. In reply, she told him she feared nothing, for all is as the Force wills. He then felt Malbus' sorrow for Killi through the Force. Îmwe informed her that there was enough Respitic for her to take, but she refused, saying the children's needs were more important. She joked that Îmwe had adopted her stubbornness over time.

Îmwe reflected on the fact that the city had not required an orphanage until the Empire's arrival and knew the Imperials possessed all the necessary supplies. The necessity of procuring the cargo weighed on Îmwe, but he did not feel guilt or regret for his behavior, instead, he felt sadness. He knew their actions were undertaken with the best intentions but he knew that the stormtrooper he had killed would not be the last life he took. He was at peace with the necessity of his actions though he took no pleasure from them, and took no small comfort in knowing Malbus felt the same way.

Îmwe continued to listen for the sound of the children's joy and laughter to lift his spirit. When Kaya and Killi returned to the room, he asked how long the supplies would last. Kaya replied positively but was worried about how the Imperials would respond. Îmwe told her the Imperials saw their actions as theft and not charity, therefore they would target the thieves, but heard the resignation in her voice when she said the Empire would realize what was happening eventually. Malbus asked the pair if they wished for them to stop their supply runs, and Killi stated she was worried about what would happen in the long run. When she said they would be trapped in the cycle they were in as long as the Empire was around, Îmwe declared they find a way to break the cycle. Killi agreed, saying they must do so before the cycle broke them.

Tea with strangers

Departing the orphanage, Îmwe and Malbus argued over the latter's damaged weapon. When the pair agreed that they knew of no one who would put up with the other, the argument ended in good spirits. Malbus quickly informed Îmwe that they were being followed, a suggestion that amused Îmwe who told his friend to quiz the strangers on why they were following the pair.

As they entered Hopper Town, Îmwe sensed a large stormtrooper presence in the area and halted Malbus in his stride. He told his friend that violence was coming and that they should move. When they reached the town's narrow alleyways, the pair bickered over who would go first after Îmwe realized Malbus would not fit. Their discussion was cut short when Malbus was spotted by the troopers, who advanced upon him. Malbus pushed Îmwe into the alleyway and told him he would catch up before running in the opposite direction.

Îmwe made his way back home where a Twi'lek named Beezer Fortuna and a Sabat named Leevan Tenza met him. The pair had been the ones following Îmwe and Malbus earlier in the day. He served them tarine tea, thinking it was the polite thing to do. When Malbus returned after nightfall with a new MWC-35c "Staccato Lightning" repeating cannon, Îmwe calmly told him to resist the urge to use it upon their visitors. Îmwe remained silent as his friend confronted the strangers as to their motives, and when they were offered an invite to meet with someone keen to meet them.

Meeting Saw Gerrera

Îmwe and Malbus were transported by speeder to a base an hour outside of the Holy City. He could sense that Fortuna, Tenza, and the driver were warriors who had taken lives, and would be willing to do so again, and reckoned they were no different to him and Malbus in that particular sense. Upon arriving at their destination, Îmwe centered himself and could feel that they were far into the frigid desert. He felt they were in an aged place and could sense memories and stories buried around him, and realized he had not been there before. He asked Malbus what he could see, and his friend replied that the Three Faces were surrounding them as they ventured further to meet with the mysterious person who had summoned them. As they entered a canyon, Îmwe sensed a presence waiting for them and stepped in front of Malbus, who had raised his new weapon at the man in front of them.

Îmwe informed the man that they had come at his instruction, and, if they were in an executioner's field, the gesture was too much effort to spend on the likes of him and Malbus. The man said he lived with caution and those who fight the Empire would understand. The stranger's raspy breathing made Îmwe think of Killi as he reached out to sense the man through the Force but found only emptiness, sadness, grief, pain, and rage with only a small ember of light. He eventually introduced himself as Saw Gerrera, and Îmwe told him they were not familiar with him. Gerrera invited the pair to fight alongside him and his Partisans to end the Imperial presence on Jedha, though Îmwe questioned why Gerrera needed their help specifically. Gerrera told them he chose them as they knew Jedha intimately and that the planet was the perfect site to hurt the Empire. Îmwe could sense Malbus responding to Gerrera’s words and knew the passion answered to passion. It nearly proved enough for him to ignore his instinct that Gerrera's motives were not as altruistic as he declared them to be. The pair left the canyon with Gerrera asking them to consider his offer.

When they were transported back to their home in the Holy City, Fortuna gave Îmwe a small communication device to contact him. Entering their home, Îmwe challenged Malbus on his belief that fighting the Empire alongside the Partisans was better than not fighting at all. His friend believed the time to fight had come and Îmwe agreed that the Empire would not allow Gerrera's Partisans any foothold on the planet. Îmwe questioned whether Gerrera was all he said he was, and believed he had lied to the pair by omission rather than declaration. When Malbus admitted he did not trust Gerrera but believed his words, Îmwe sighed and told his friend he felt the same.

Distress at the orphanage

The pair later headed to the orphanage to find it had been raided and emptied by the Imperials. When Malbus informed him the orphanage was not in a good state, Îmwe called inside for the Gimm sisters but met no reply. They made their way inside the empty building, and Îmwe surmised that no one was there and that no blasters had been used as the air did not smell like blasterfire. Accepting that everyone had been evicted, the pair left the orphanage and were met by five stormtroopers outside. Îmwe smiled and enquired whose company they were in to emit an air of innocence. After Malbus informed him that they were stormtroopers, he raised his staff in the air and declared his support for Emperor Palpatine. After feigning ignorance of his surroundings, Îmwe enquired where the residents of the orphanage were taken. After the stormtrooper sergeant stated she did not know, Îmwe enquired whether the street was empty before splitting the sergeant's helmet in two with his staff as Malbus dealt with the remaining troopers using his new cannon.

They later located Killi, Kaya, and the orphans at an abandoned house Malbus had found years prior. Inside, the sisters and the children were gripped with fear and sadness. The sisters did not blame the pair for the Empire's actions in evicting them, and Îmwe asked whether anyone was hurt. When Kaya confirmed B'asia, a young Togruta, was struck by a stormtrooper, Îmwe could feel Malbus' strong glare on him as he told her he worried about the cold night ahead and the lack of supplies. He asked to be alone with Malbus, though the pair sat in silence for a short while after the sisters left. Îmwe began to repeat the Guardian's Mantra to himself before passing Fortuna's communication device to Malbus. He instructed his friend to request food, water, medicine, and beds for the orphans in exchange for their help with Gerrera's cause, a request that Malbus completed.

Joining the Partisans

After allying with the Partisans, Îmwe participated in smaller missions in the initial months but believed Gerrera thought his blindness was a liability. He also thought he made the Partisan leader uncomfortable.

Two months into their partnership, as part of his latest mission, Îmwe was positioned a kilometer away from the intersection between Blessing Way and the Square of Stars in Jedha City. There he waited as an All Terrain Scout Transport headed towards an area where the Partisans would ambush it on Îmwe’s signal. While waiting for the transport to reach its position, Îmwe thought of Gerrera and the secrets he was hiding, though he could not blame the Partisan leader for being paranoid as he knew the Empire wanted him dead at any cost. He reflected on the effects that his and Malbus' actions had had - stealing supplies from the Empire had led to the loss of the orphanage and how for every insurgent who struck at a stormtrooper, another trooper had arrived to strike back. Îmwe was unsure whether Gerrera’s war against the Empire had changed that or simply accelerated the escalation, but he knew the Imperials would continue to mine the planet’s kyber if they could get away with it. He thought of how the Empire had no respect for the lives of the citizens, and Gerrera's war had not changed that, believing that when a bully turned angry, only innocents suffered.

After detecting the transport's arrival, Îmwe informed Benthic, a highly trusted Tognath warrior under Gerrera's command. The walker's explosion during the ambush sent vibrations through him, confirming the Partisans' impending brutality. He carried the weight of responsibility, recognizing his role in the unfolding events, where neither side would offer quarter.

Subsequently, Îmwe and Malbus encountered Fortuna and Kullbee Sperado, a Meftian male, at a Tapcafe situated near the Old Shadows. Following his introduction to Sperado and sensing the chilling aura surrounding him, Îmwe remarked on the burden of his past, prompting deep reflection from the Meftian. Sperado then grasped Îmwe's hand, requesting prayer, but Îmwe declined, choosing instead to guide him towards self-prayer. A sense of warmth then returned to the Meftian. Together, they devised a strategy to disrupt the Empire's plunder of the planet's kyber resources, with Îmwe prioritizing the safety of the miners. The scheme involved ambushing a speeder convoy transporting crystals from the mines to the city. Fortuna questioned Îmwe's participation due to his blindness, leading to a playful rebuke of Malbus for neglecting to mention it. After their meeting, Îmwe accompanied Sperado to the Old Shadows. He reassured the Meftian that everyone possesses an inherent place, irremovable and internal, and that rediscovery is the task if it's lost. He then introduced Sperado to Angber Trel, a Disciple of the Whills, before departing. The next day, he wished the Meftian well in his journey to find his place.

As the operation commenced, Fortuna remained doubtful of Îmwe's capabilities. He and Malbus positioned themselves on one side of a cliff just outside the city, while a Talpini and a human male, recruited by Fortuna, occupied the opposite side. Îmwe wielded his lightbow for the mission, a weapon that, despite years of disuse, felt familiar. The pair exchanged jokes about Malbus' cannon malfunctioning before Fortuna signaled the start. Îmwe perceived the explosions in the ravine below and heard gunfire from across the way. He detected a stormtrooper in the speeder aiming at the Partisans, but he swiftly neutralized him with a lightbow shot, prompting an apology from Fortuna for his initial skepticism.

Alliances Under Strain

Over the next couple of months, Îmwe participated in countless operations that inflicted damage and provoked the Empire. He grew increasingly concerned about the consequences of his and the Partisans' actions, as well as Gerrera's underlying motives. He engaged in a debate with Malbus, arguing that despite the significant stormtrooper casualties and recovered kyber crystals, their message had not resonated with the Empire as intended. When Malbus challenged him to propose a better solution, Îmwe admitted his inability to do so, but emphasized that their actions were disproportionately affecting innocent people. He revealed that the number of children in the orphanage had doubled as a result of the escalating conflict, and he believed that Gerrera's presence on Jedha had significantly worsened the situation. He observed that others, beyond himself and Malbus, were being recruited to Gerrera's cause, and that each attack against the Empire was becoming more ambitious and coordinated. After a moment of contemplation, Malbus declared his intention to directly address Gerrera in search of a resolution.

Îmwe's concerns were validated when the Empire significantly increased its presence on the planet, deploying more troops and weaponry, the day after Malbus left to confer with Gerrera. Amidst the ensuing chaos, Îmwe encountered Althin, the son of Steya and Tok, amidst the devastation. The young Rodian had suffered a broken arm, and Îmwe carried him to safety, reciting the Guardians' mantra. Having known Althin since birth as a friend of his parents, Îmwe was overcome with intense anger upon learning of Steya and Tok's deaths in the battle, a feeling he had not experienced in years. He directed his anger at the Force's will, at Gerrera, the Empire, and Malbus, but also at himself. His self-directed anger stemmed from his hubris in believing he could alleviate Jedha's suffering when he struggled to ensure the safety of a grieving child. He continued towards the orphanage, unable to elicit any response from Althin. Upon reaching the orphanage, Îmwe assured the Rodian that he would remain close by. He met Malbus there, and the pair shared chav tea. Îmwe expressed his concern for his friend's well-being, noting that he had missed his usual nagging. When Kaya informed Îmwe that Althin was receiving care, he responded that the boy needed love, peace, quiet, and time. His concern about the dwindling space in the orphanage was shared by Malbus, who suggested evacuating the children from the planet. Îmwe was skeptical of the plan due to the numerous potential obstacles, but Malbus revealed that Gerrera had agreed to provide a ship. They presented the plan to Killi and Kaya, with Killi choosing to stay due to her terminal illness, a condition Îmwe had foreseen.

Later that night, the pair traveled to Denic's garage, where they explained their plan in hopes of enlisting her as the pilot of the ship provided by Gerrera. She deemed the plan impossible given the Imperial presence on and above the planet, but Îmwe argued that there was a space between 'next to impossible' and 'impossible' and that is where they would fit. Her attempts to persuade them to recruit Woan Barso were unsuccessful after Îmwe stated it would be foolish to trust the children to a pilot who did not trust himself. Ultimately, Denic conceded and agreed to participate in the plan.

Assisting the Orphans and Departing from the Partisans

A week later, Îmwe, along with Killi, Kaya, and Denic, led a group of thirty-four children to the Jedha City spaceport, where Malbus was scheduled to meet them. The spectacle attracted considerable attention from both locals and Imperials, who were unsure how to react. Upon arriving at the spaceport, over five hundred locals joined them, motivated by solidarity and curiosity. The plan had originated with Gerrera, who believed that even the Empire would hesitate to fire upon a group of children, although Îmwe characterized the plan as a test of faith. He held Althin's hand as they entered the spaceport, but felt a chill emanating from Malbus, who revealed that Gerrera intended to use the Sentinel-class landing craft he had commandeered to destroy the Dauntless in orbit above the city.

Îmwe centered himself and walked towards the ship, informing Sperado, who was aware of Gerrera's plan, that the children had walked the entire city, promised a place on the shuttle. The Meftiak tried to dissuade Îmwe, and Fortuna asserted that the people of Jedha needed a symbol of hope, which Gerrera represented. Îmwe questioned him about the explosive power required to destroy a Star Destroyer and asked whether Gerrera would sacrifice the children's futures for a minor victory against the Empire. He argued that Fortuna, Gerrera, and everyone present knew that attacking the Star Destroyer would not liberate Jedha. He challenged Wernad and Sperado on their actions before lifting Althin and ascending the shuttle's ramp, prompting the Partisans to reluctantly leave the ship, ending the pair's alliance with Gerrera.

As the shuttle initiated its power-up sequence, Îmwe and Althin embraced as the young Rodian recited the Guardian's mantra to Îmwe, which pleased him immensely. He then argued with Malbus about which of them would stay with the orphans, with Îmwe insisting that his friend must leave Jedha as his anger would only intensify. Eventually, Killi intervened and urged them both to remain on Jedha, knowing that neither would abandon the other. He believed the Empire would never discover their involvement, assuming they would blame the Partisans and Gerrera would claim it as a victory against the Empire.

Îmwe and Malbus blended into the crowd of onlookers and returned home. Îmwe offered to brew his friend some tarine tea upon their arrival, an offer Malbus reluctantly accepted.

The Rebellion

Encountering Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor

Several months later, on the streets of Jedha City, Îmwe crossed paths with Jyn Erso and Rebel spy Cassian Jeron Andor after sensing her kyber crystal necklace. While chanting to the bustling crowds, he offered Jyn a glimpse into her future in exchange for the necklace, and demanded payment for the knowledge of how he knew she was wearing a necklace. He inquired about her knowledge of kyber crystals, and nodded in approval when she mentioned that her father would say they powered Jedi lightsabers. Before their conversation could continue, Andor pulled her away. As he did, Îmwe shouted to her, "The strongest stars have hearts of kyber".

Following a skirmish between Gerrera's Partisans and Imperial forces in Tythoni Square, Îmwe and Malbus came to the aid of Jyn and Andor after they had been confronted by stormtroopers. Îmwe instructed the troopers to allow Jyn and Andor to pass peacefully, declaring, "The Force is with me, and I am with the Force. And I fear nothing, all is as the Force wills it". He positioned himself in the center of the troopers and, utilizing a combination of his heightened senses, his staff, and his mastery of Zama-shiwo martial arts, he successfully neutralized the squad of stormtroopers. However, he was saved by Malbus who eliminated a second wave of onrushing troopers, though he was aggrieved that his friend nearly shot him in the process. He told Andor that the Force protected him after Malbus denied that they were Jedi. The group were then taken captive by Benthic and the Partisans. Îmwe reasoned with them that they were not allies of the Empire, though Benthic responded that Andor had killed his men. The group were taken to Gerrera, and Îmwe was incredulous as he was blindfolded for the journey.

The Destruction of Jedha

Îmwe and his companions were transported to the Catacombs of Cadera and imprisoned, while Jyn was taken directly to Gerrera. He repeated the Guardian's mantra within their cell, and Malbus mocked him for praying for the cell door to open. Îmwe informed Andor that Malbus was bothered because he knew it was possible, explaining that his friend was once the most devoted Guardian of them all. He then advised Andor to relax, stating that there is more than one type of prison and believing the spy carried his wherever he went.

After nearly an hour, Îmwe inquired about the occupant of the adjacent cell. Andor determined that it was Bodhi Rook, an Imperial defector who had delivered a message describing the Death Star to Gerrera from Galen Walton Erso, Jyn's father and an Imperial scientist. While they were confined, the Death Star arrived above the planet and unleashed a single reactor beam upon the Holy City, triggering a chain reaction that obliterated the city and a significant portion of the planet. After Andor managed to unlock the prison door, he instructed the pair to retrieve the pilot and meet him on the surface.

Upon reaching the surface, Îmwe asked his friend what he saw, but Malbus was unable to articulate his observations. Instead, Malbus directed him to run towards Andor's approaching U-wing. After reaching the ship, Andor's reprogrammed KX-series security droid K-2SO piloted them to safety, away from Îmwe's destroyed home for the final time.

While the ship was in hyperspace, Îmwe asked his friend if the entire city was gone, and Malbus somberly confirmed it was. Later, as Andor pressed Jyn about whether she had retrieved Galen's message detailing how to destroy the superweapon, Îmwe expressed his belief in Jyn's claim that her father had set a trap, despite her not possessing the hologram.

Mission to Eadu

Îmwe and his new companions set a course for Eadu. Andor had been tasked with extracting Galen so he could testify in front of the Galactic Senate, though privately he was ordered to assassinate the scientist by General Davits Draven. Upon entering Eadu's atmosphere en route to the Eadu Energy Conversion Laboratory, the U-wing battled the stormy weather on the planet, and Îmwe prayed to himself before the ship crashed into the mountainous planet below.

After Andor and Rook had departed the ship, Îmwe asked the group whether Andor looked like a killer. Though Malbus replied that he did not, Îmwe told Jyn that the Force moved darkly around a creature that was about to kill. This prompted Jyn to leave the ship to search for her father, leaving Îmwe, Malbus, and K-2SO still aboard. After a short while, Îmwe left the ship and told Malbus he was going to follow Jyn as her path was clear. When Malbus wished him good luck, Îmwe replied that he did not lead luck as he had his friend with him. Îmwe led Malbus up a treacherous ridge overlooking the facilities landing pad. After Malbus scoped out the activity on the pad, Îmwe sensed anger in his friend and reminded him that they were not there to exact revenge on Imperials. Malbus argued as to why they were participating in the mission, and Îmwe told his friend he followed Jyn because she shone. Placing his hand on his friend's bulky shoulder, the pair enjoyed a moment of peace in the rain before the approaching Alliance starfighters above them shattered the silence. As the X-wings attacked the Imperial facility, Îmwe successfully destroyed a TIE/LN starfighter using his lightbow.

The assault ended following a proton torpedo being dropped by a rebel starfighter, killing Galen Erso and causing the Imperials, including Director Orson Callan Krennic, to fall back. During the skirmish, Rook had commandeered a stolen Zeta-class cargo shuttle, SW-0608, and Îmwe rejoined the rest of the crew onboard as they escaped the planet. With a newfound respect, Andor praised Îmwe for eliminating a TIE Fighter with his lightbow.

With the ship in hyperspace en route to the Rebel base on Yavin 4, Îmwe sat motionless and listened as Andor and Jyn fought over the spies intention to assassinate her father.

Yavin 4

Upon landing at the Base One, Îmwe reminded Malbus to show courtesy to the waiting rebels as they were guests in their home. Îmwe was taken for questioning by Alliance Intelligence Officers, but was discharged after.(R1 novel) He reunited with Malbus in the base's hangar and, shortly after, met Jyn and Rook following their unsuccessful attempt to rally Alliance support to retrieve the Death Star plans from the Imperial Center of Military Research on Scarif. Îmwe knew Jyn wanted to fight despite the Alliance High Command's ruling, and knew the Force was strong with their intentions. After Andor, along with a small group of rebel soldiers, pledged his support for the mission, Îmwe joined the band of rebels aboard SW-0608 as they prepared for the journey to Scarif.

The Battle of Scarif

Pre-Battle

Aboard the ship, Îmwe tapped his stick enthusiastically following Jyn telling the troops, "May the Force be with us." As the stolen ship embarked on the unsanctioned mission, the motley crew adopted an impromptu callsign from Rook - Rogue One.

Îmwe remained in the lower cabin during the journey, and allowed himself to laugh at Jyn's incredulity at being made a sergeant by Taidu Sefla. Following a speech from Jyn to inspire the soldiers, Andor assigned Îmwe with Malbus, Ruescott Melshi and the Drabatan Pao with the instruction to take the main squad and move them clear of the ship towards the Citadel Tower. Once they found an ideal location, they were to begin the assault and draw the fighters away from Andor and Jyn, who would be infiltrating the vault with K-2SO. Before they departed to begin their task, Îmwe felt Jyn's warm smile towards him as she wished him a silent farewell.

The battle begins

Îmwe and the main squad headed through the jungle, and of one of the rebel soldiers questioned Malbus as to whether Îmwe could keep pace with them. Malbus scolded the soldier and Îmwe snapped that he could hear him too. As he hid his tracks, Îmwe began to chant, "May the Force of others be with you".Eventually, they arrived near a barracks, and while the rebel soldiers began placing detonators around the site, Îmwe and Malbus began silently hunting and eliminating any stormtroopers in the area - Îmwe utilizing his stick to down his enemies. After Andor gave the instruction, the rebels began detonating the explosives and the battle began.

Using his lightbow, Îmwe successfully took down many stormtroopers as Rogue One held firm in the initial stages of the battle. However, the stormtroopers reinforcements began to overwhelm the small band of rebels. During the intense fighting, Îmwe sensed the presence of incoming All Terrain Armored Cargo Transport walkers and immediately told Malbus to run. The pair, along with the surviving soldiers, headed to the shoreline and bunkered down in trenches along the oceanfront. Îmwe watched as a rocket launched by Malbus did not stop the walkers approach, but the squad was saved from certain death by Alliance X-wing fighters, who were part of the larger rebel fleet that had amassed over the planet to support Rogue One.

Death

Îmwe later made his way to a bunker near the Citadel Tower after Melshi received instruction from Rook that they needed to find and activate a master switch to allow him to contact the Rebel fleet. He leapt between blaster bolts as he made his way to the bunker, where he found himself panting following the exertion of battle. He was joined by Malbus, Sefla, and Melshi - who had taken a blaster bolt and was quickly expiring - and began firing his lightbow at the stormtroopers who had taken position around the bunker. Before succumbing to his wound, Melshi informed the trio that the master switch was located on a console ten meters away, though Sefla was immediately killed when he attempted to reach it.

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Îmwe stood up and exited the bunker. He could feel the warmth of the sun, and the breeze on his skin. The jungle flowers and beetles were all around him. He began to repeat his mantra, "I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me". He was aware that without the temple he could not truly be a Guardian of the Whills, without joy and frivolity he could not be a source of humour to his peers, and without the Holy City he could not be a protector of how beloved world but he truly knew that he was not a warrior at heart and the events of the battle had eroded his spirit. Îmwe had fought and killed because it was necessary, but he felt in that moment the necessity was no more. As he continued striding towards the console and repeating his mantra, he ignored the pained cries of Malbus to come back to him. He felt blaster bolts whip past him as he approached the console, listening for telltale echoes with his staff as to its location.

He had questioned his own wisdom before leaving the bunker - how might he separate the will of the Force from his own will and ego, but as he approached the console, he felt no doubt or fear in his heart. He had felt the Force express itself and it had simply asked him to walk. As he reached the console, he found the master switch and activated it, and began to smile as he thought of Rook in that moment. Following this, his path became obscured and he was aware of Malbus crying out for him again. He turned and began to make his way back to the bunker, but the rhythm of his breathing was off and the sensations around him failed to coalesce.

Right before he could proceed any further, a death trooper triggered an explosive event that sent Îmwe flying through the air with tremendous force. A wave of agony washed over him, originating from his bones and re-igniting every past wound he had ever sustained. Upon impacting the ground, he found himself unable to feel either his staff or his hand; instead, he experienced only a pulsing sensation coupled with a heavy, numb feeling at the end of his arm. Remembering the pain management techniques taught by zama-shiwo, Îmwe allowed his blood to soak into the Scarif sands without registering any suffering. He reasoned that the violence inflicted upon his own body was of less concern to him than the violence he himself had perpetrated against others, and he accepted that his life was ending. Hearing Malbus approaching, he decided against revealing his blindness to his friend, knowing that Malbus had always been more in need of reassurance than humor. He briefly pondered how Malbus had managed to traverse the battlefield to reach him, but deep down, he understood that the Force had orchestrated their reunion just before the end. Malbus held Îmwe close, begging him not to die, but Îmwe used his final breaths to gently assure his friend that everything would be alright, and that by seeking the Force, he would always find him. As Îmwe passed away, he heard Malbus repeating his mantra, and the words resonated within his heart one last time.

Legacy

With his parting words, Îmwe succeeded in reminding Malbus about his bond with the Force, thereby reconnecting him with his teachings as a Guardian of the Whills. Although the entire Rogue One team perished on Scarif, their mission ultimately achieved its objective when the stolen plans were transmitted to the Rebel fleet. Possessing this crucial information, the Rebel Alliance, with the assistance of Luke Skywalker, who expressed deep respect for the sacrifices made by the Rogue One members upon learning of their actions, were able to destroy the Death Star. The starfighter group known as Rogue Squadron was subsequently named in honor of Îmwe and the fallen squad. The Rebel Alliance garnered increased support following the destruction of the battle station, eventually securing a pivotal victory over the Empire at the Battle of Jakku in 5 ABY, thus ushering in the era of the New Republic.

In 32 ABY, fragments of Îmwe's staff were discovered on Merokia, at the residence of Karr Nuq Sin, a Force-sensitive teenager who collected Jedi artifacts. The staff's base had shattered into numerous pieces, appearing completely blackened and charred, yet Nuq Sin sensed that something had prevented its total disintegration. While explaining his psychometry abilities to his friend Maize Raynshi, Nuq Sin clarified that he could experience Force-induced visions upon touching specific objects. Upon making contact with the staff, he remarked that its owner did not wear traditional Jedi garments nor wield a lightsaber. Instead, he tightly gripped the staff and spoke of the Force amidst a fierce battle.

Personality and traits

Chirrut Îmwe was a blind human male character, distinguished by his pale [blue](/article/color] eyes, dark hair, and tanned complexion. Although lacking inherent Force abilities, Îmwe held a strong conviction in the Force and adhered to the Jedi principles, carrying a simple staff and a traditional lightbow bowcaster, which contrasted sharply with his partner's more practical outlook. His deep commitment to spirituality enabled him to overcome his blindness, transforming him into a formidable warrior. Îmwe's proficiency in the martial art of Zama-shiwo reportedly granted him extraordinary capabilities that influenced his heart rate and oxygen intake. Îmwe consistently maintained secrecy regarding the cause of his blindness.

Behind the scenes

The character of Chirrut Îmwe is brought to life by Donnie Yen in the Star Wars standalone movie, Rogue One: A Star Wars Story. Director Gareth Edwards granted Yen creative freedom to develop the character as he envisioned. One of the defining characteristics Yen introduced for his character was Îmwe's blindness. Furthermore, the character's blindness in Rogue One drew inspiration from the Japanese fictional character Zatoichi, a blind masseur who also served as a samurai.