Chirrut Îmwe

Biography

Early life

Chirrut Îmwe was born in 53 BBY and called the moon of Jedha his home, where he became affiliated with the Guardians of the Whills alongside his longtime friend Baze Malbus. Near the conclusion of the Clone Wars, a galactic-scale conflict between the Confederacy of Independent Systems and the Galactic Republic spanning from 22 BBY to 19 BBY, Îmwe was approached by Steya, who requested that he instruct her in the art of zama-shiwo, a fighting discipline in which Îmwe had achieved a high level of skill. For a number of years, they would convene outside the Temple of the Kyber to hone their techniques. However, the Clone Wars concluded with the emergence of the Galactic Empire, which supplanted the Republic and initiated the imposition of its authority upon the galaxy.

Age of the Empire

In approximately 14 BBY, Îmwe detected a disturbance within a tunnel leading to the Temple of the Kyber. He confronted Dok-Ondar and Hondo Ohnaka after the latter's apprentice had been killed and they made off with a kyber crystal statue. Îmwe commented to the pair that their hasty departure did not resonate with the conduct of the devout, and he sensed they were carrying the stolen artifact. He introduced himself and informed them that he could not permit theft within such a sacred location. When Ohnaka suggested that he would be easily defeated due to his blindness, Îmwe countered that there were alternative means of perception beyond sight as he moved to defend himself.

The two continued to fight until Dok-Ondar intervened, conveying his respect for the Guardians to Îmwe and noting that he was attuned to the Force sufficiently to discern that the Ithorian's intentions were not malevolent. He informed Îmwe that the statue was one of exactly 2,304 that lined the Temple's tunnels and that the artefact was priceless to him as it could aid in solving the mystery of his parent's murder. He pleaded with Îmwe to let him take the statue out of the dark and back into the light and, after a brief pause, Îmwe relented and allowed the pair to leave the tunnel with the statue. In 1 BBY, Padawan Ezra Bridger entered the World Between Worlds, a place that existed between time and space, and heard Îmwe's voice within.

A Devoted Guardian

Unrest in the streets

In 1 BBY, within the streets of Jedha City, Îmwe, accompanied by former Guardian Baze Malbus, encountered the Anomid Silvanie Phest, to whom he would provide alms 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. Having spent numerous years at the Temple previously, he was aware that only a small number 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 made him sad, and all the more determined to keep his faith in the Force and to find a way to ease the suffering of those around him. Îmwe agreed to assist, and despite Malbus' grumbling, the pair trailed 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 overheard the man proclaiming to be a Jedi. He softly told himself he was one with the Force and stretched out with his feelings - though he was not a Jedi or Force-sensitive, he could feel the Force around 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.

Reaching out again through the Force, he felt the man was no Jedi. The man, Wernad, implored Îmwe to stand with him against 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.

Upon returning to the room they shared near the Old Market, Îmwe settled into his accustomed spot and smiled to himself as he engaged in meditation. After serving them both tarine tea, Malbus remarked to Îmwe that he believed Wernad's sentiments were not misguided. Îmwe proposed that perhaps Wernad was not the appropriate individual to spearhead the resistance, to which Malbus countered that it was not his friend's prerogative to make such a determination. Îmwe simply responded 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 evening, Îmwe and Malbus concealed themselves in the obscurity of midnight near the LZ-Cresh landing bay, where they ultimately intended to pilfer weaponry, medicine, sustenance, and tea from a landspeeder slated to approach a specific Zeta-class Heavy Cargo Shuttle. Upon the hauler's arrival, Îmwe promptly identified it and expressed frustration toward Malbus, who advocated for awaiting confirmation. When Malbus commented that he was being particularly irritating that night, Îmwe responded that there was ample night remaining. Ultimately, Îmwe maneuvered into a position to draw the attention of the stormtroopers within 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 traveled to the Gimm sisters' orphanage where they delivered the food and medicine to Killi Gimm and her sister Kaya, who looked after the city's orphans. 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 recognized that the Imperials possessed all the necessary supplies for the orphanage. 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

Upon departing the orphanage, Îmwe and Malbus engaged in a dispute regarding the latter's damaged weapon. Once the pair conceded that they were unaware of anyone else who would tolerate the other, the disagreement concluded amicably. Malbus promptly informed Îmwe that they were under surveillance, a proposition that amused Îmwe, who instructed his friend to inquire of the strangers regarding their motives for trailing them.

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 via speeder to a base situated an hour's distance outside 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 sensed that they were deep within 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.

Upon being transported back to their abode in the Holy City, Fortuna furnished Îmwe with a diminutive communication device for contacting 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.

Upon realizing the transport had arrived, Îmwe signaled Benthic, a Tognath who was a highly valued warrior of Gerrera's inner circle. The walker's explosion during the ambush sent vibrations through him, confirming the Partisans' ruthless approach. He understood that his actions were part of the mission, and that no quarter would be given by either side. He was keenly aware of his responsibility in this situation.

Later, Îmwe and Malbus encountered Fortuna and Kullbee Sperado, a male Meftian, at a Tapcafe situated close to the Old Shadows. After being formally introduced to Sperado, and sensing a chilling emptiness around him, Îmwe remarked that Sperado was burdened by his history, which caused the Meftian to pause and contemplate. Sperado then grasped Îmwe's hand, requesting a prayer, but Îmwe declined, instead offering to teach him how to pray for himself. At that instant, Îmwe detected a resurgence of warmth within the Meftian. Together, they devised a strategy to impede the Empire's plundering of the planet's kyber, with Îmwe prioritizing the safety of the miners. The plan involved ambushing a speeder transporting the crystals from the mines to the city and seizing the cargo. Fortuna questioned whether Îmwe would participate, given his blindness, prompting Îmwe to playfully chide Malbus for omitting this detail. Following their discussion, Îmwe accompanied Sperado towards the Old Shadows. He assured the Meftian that everyone possesses an inherent purpose that cannot be lost, as it resides within them, and if it seems misplaced, the challenge lies in rediscovering it. He then introduced Sperado to Angber Trel, a member of the Disciples of the Whills, before departing. The next day, he wished the Meftian well in his continued quest to find his place.

At the mission's outset, Fortuna remained skeptical of Îmwe's potential contribution. He and Malbus positioned themselves on one side of a cliff outside the city, while a Talpini and a human male, both recruited by Fortuna, stood opposite them. Îmwe wielded his lightbow for the operation, and despite years of disuse, it felt familiar in his hands. The two shared a lighthearted moment about Malbus' cannon potentially misfiring before Fortuna signaled the start of the operation. Îmwe registered the explosions in the ravine below and sensed blaster fire from the opposite side. He detected a stormtrooper in the speeder preparing to target the Partisans, but he swiftly neutralized the threat with a shot from his lightbow, prompting an apology from Fortuna for his initial doubts.

Divided Loyalties

In the subsequent two months, Îmwe participated in countless operations that inflicted damage and provoked the Empire, causing him to grow increasingly concerned about the impact of their actions and Gerrera's true motives. He argued with Malbus, asserting that despite the significant number of stormtrooper casualties and recovered kyber crystals, their message had not resonated with the Empire as intended. When Malbus challenged him to propose a better course of action, Îmwe admitted he couldn't, but emphasized that their actions were disproportionately harming innocent people. He revealed that the orphanage's population had doubled due to the escalating conflict, and he realized that Gerrera's presence on Jedha had exacerbated the situation. He observed that others besides himself and Malbus had joined Gerrera's cause, and that each attack against the Empire was becoming more substantial and coordinated. After a period of contemplation, Malbus announced his intention to directly address Gerrera in hopes of finding a solution.

Îmwe's fears were confirmed when the Empire significantly increased its presence on the planet, deploying more personnel and weaponry the day after Malbus left to confer with Gerrera. During the ensuing clashes, Îmwe discovered Althin, the son of Steya and Tok, amidst the chaos. The young Rodian had suffered a broken arm, and Îmwe carried him to safety while reciting the Guardians' mantra. Having known Althin since birth and being close to his parents, Îmwe was overcome with intense anger upon learning of Steya and Tok's deaths in the skirmish, a feeling he hadn't experienced in years. He felt anger towards the Force's will, Gerrera, the Empire, and Malbus, but also towards himself. His self-directed anger stemmed from his arrogance in believing he could alleviate Jedha's suffering, yet he struggled to escort a grieving child to safety. 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 they 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 orphanage's dwindling space was shared by Malbus, who suggested evacuating the children from the planet. Îmwe was initially skeptical due to the potential obstacles, but Malbus revealed that Gerrera had agreed to provide them with 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.

That evening, the two went to Denic's garage where they outlined their plan, hoping to enlist her as the pilot of the ship Gerrera would provide. She deemed the plan unfeasible given the Empire's presence on and above the planet, but Îmwe countered that there was a space between 'next to impossible' and 'impossible' where they could succeed. Her attempts to persuade them to recruit Woan Barso were unsuccessful after Îmwe argued that entrusting the children to a pilot who lacked self-confidence would be unwise. Ultimately, Denic conceded and agreed to participate in the plan.

Assisting the Orphans and Leaving the Partisans

A week later, Îmwe, accompanied by Killi, Kaya, and Denic, led thirty-four children towards the Jedha City spaceport, where Malbus was scheduled to meet them. The procession attracted considerable attention from both the locals and the Imperials, who were unsure how to react. Upon arriving at the spaceport, over five hundred locals joined them, driven by solidarity and curiosity. The plan had been conceived by Gerrera, who believed that even the Empire would hesitate to fire upon a group of children, although Îmwe viewed it 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 length of the city with the promise of a place on the shuttle. The Meftiak tried to dissuade Îmwe, and Fortuna argued that the people of Jedha needed Gerrera as a symbol of hope. Îmwe questioned how large of an explosive would be required to destroy a Star Destroyer and asked if Gerrera would sacrifice the children's futures for a minor victory against the Empire. He asserted 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 disembark, effectively ending the pair's association with Gerrera.

As the shuttle began to power up, Îmwe and Althin embraced as the young Rodian recited the Guardian's mantra to Îmwe, which greatly pleased him. He then argued with Malbus about who would remain 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 stay on Jedha, knowing that neither would abandon the other. He reasoned that the Empire would never identify those responsible for their actions, 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

Meeting Jyn Erso and Cassian Andor

Months later, while in Jedha City's streets, Îmwe crossed paths with Jyn Erso and Rebel spy Cassian Jeron Andor after sensing the kyber crystal on her necklace. He was chanting to the bustling crowds when he inquired if Jyn would exchange the necklace for a glimpse into her future, and informed her that she must pay for the knowledge of how he knew she was wearing a necklace. He questioned her about her knowledge of kyber crystals, and nodded approvingly when she mentioned that her father would say they powered Jedi lightsabers. Before they could continue their exchange, Andor pulled her away. As he did, Îmwe called out 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 were confronted by stormtroopers. Îmwe commanded 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 amidst the troopers and, employing his heightened senses, his staff, and his proficiency in Zama-shiwo martial arts, he successfully neutralized the stormtrooper squad. 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.

Jedha’s Destruction

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

After nearly an hour, Îmwe inquired about the identity of the occupant in the adjacent cell. Andor identified him as Bodhi Rook, an Imperial defector who had delivered a message detailing 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, initiating 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 thoughts. 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, carrying Îmwe away from his destroyed home for the last time.

While the ship was in hyperspace, Îmwe asked his friend if the whole city was gone, and Malbus sullenly confirmed it was. Later, as Andor pressed Jyn as to whether she had retrieved Galen's message that described how to destroy the superweapon, Îmwe stated he believed Jyn's statement that her father had rigged a trap, despite her not having 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.

Sensing the dire situation at hand, Îmwe rose and stepped out of the bunker. He felt the warmth of an alien star on his skin and the sea breeze pawing at his robes. Around him, he smelt jungle flowers and the sweet stink of dirt beetles amongst the conflagaration and death, and heard the chittering of an unknown beast beyond the sounds of blaster bolts. He added his own voice to the noise and he began repeating 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.

Before he had the chance to proceed any further, a death trooper triggered an explosion, sending Îmwe flying through the air with tremendous force. A searing pain shot through his bones, and every past injury flared up with renewed intensity. Upon impacting the ground, he was unable to feel his staff or his hand, only a persistent throbbing sensation and 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 Scarif's sands without succumbing to the agony. He reasoned that the violence inflicted on his body was less troubling than the violence he had inflicted on others, and he accepted that his life was ending. Hearing Malbus's approach, he chose not to reveal his post-explosion blindness to his friend, knowing that Malbus had always craved reassurance more than humor. He briefly pondered how Malbus had traversed the battlefield to reach him, but deep down, he knew that the Force had orchestrated their reunion before his demise. Malbus held Îmwe close, begging him to stay alive, but Îmwe used his remaining strength to gently assure his friend that everything would be alright, and that by seeking the Force, he would always find him. As Îmwe breathed his last, he heard Malbus repeat his mantra, and the words resonated within his heart once more.

Legacy

With his dying words, Îmwe successfully reminded Malbus of his connection to the Force, prompting a reconnection with his teachings as a Guardian of the Whills. Although the entire Rogue One team perished on Scarif, their mission achieved its ultimate goal as the stolen plans were transmitted to the Rebel fleet. Using this vital information, the Rebel Alliance, with the help of Luke Skywalker, who expressed admiration for the sacrifices made by the members of Rogue One, managed to destroy the Death Star. The Rogue Squadron starfighter group was later named in honor of Îmwe and the fallen squad. The destruction of the battle station bolstered support for the Rebel Alliance, leading to a decisive victory over the Empire at the Battle of Jakku in 5 ABY, marking the dawn of the New Republic era.

In 32 ABY, fragments of Îmwe's staff eventually made their way to Merokia, the home of Karr Nuq Sin, a Force-sensitive teenager and Jedi artifact hunter. The staff's bottom portion was shattered and fragmented, appearing completely blackened and charred, yet Nuq Sin sensed that something had prevented its complete disintegration. Explaining his psychometry abilities to his friend Maize Raynshi, Nuq Sin revealed that he could experience visions through the Force by touching certain objects. Upon touching the staff, he declared that its owner did not wear traditional Jedi attire nor wield a lightsaber. Instead, he gripped the staff tightly and murmured about the Force amidst a fierce battle.

Personality and traits

Chirrut Îmwe, a blind human male with pale [blue](/article/color] eyes, black hair, and tan skin, deeply believed in the Force, despite lacking Force abilities. He adhered to the Jedi path, carrying a simple staff and a traditional lightbow bowcaster, which contrasted sharply with his partner's more pragmatic nature. His spiritual devotion enabled him to overcome his blindness and become a formidable warrior. It was said that Îmwe's mastery of the martial art Zama-shiwo granted him supernatural abilities that altered his heart and oxygen intake. Îmwe always guarded the reason for his blindness as a closely held secret.

Behind the scenes

Donnie Yen plays Chirrut Îmwe in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, a stand-alone Star Wars film. Gareth Edwards, the director, gave Yen the freedom to develop the character as he saw fit. Îmwe's blindness was one of the traits that Yen brought to the role. The Japanese fictional character Zatoichi, a blind masseur and samurai, also served as inspiration for the character's blindness in Rogue One.