Journey Through Sadness: The Most Sad Moments in Star Wars Legends

Star Wars Legends is a treasure trove of epic tales, thrilling adventures, and, unfortunately, somber moments. Among these moments, the passing of specific characters leaves fans mourning. In this essay, we explore two of the most heartbreaking stories in the Legends canon: the final moments of Chewbacca and the tragic story of Etain Tur-Mukan.

The Tragic Departure of Chewbacca

The death of Chewbacca is perhaps the most soul-wrenching event in Star Wars Legends. Unlike the resurrection of Palpatine and the rise of the Sith (although these events themselves are controversial), the loss of Chewie is a story too painful to stomach. Fans are fully aware that the battle against Darth Vader and the Empire will continue, but losing the beloved Wookiee is a kind of loss that touches the core of our affection for his character.

The Bittersweet Farewell of Etain Tur-Mukan

Etain Tur-Mukan is another character whose departure left an indelible mark on the Star Wars universe, especially within the Legends timeline. Etain was a Jedi Padawan who embarked on an espionage mission on the planet Qiilura early in the Clone Wars. She was tasked with a critical mission alongside her master Kast Fulier.

When Fulier was killed, leaving Etain to fend for herself on a hostile world, she encountered Darman, a Clone Trooper from Omega Squad. Over the course of the war, Etain not only joined and became a Jedi Knight but also formed a profound bond with the clone commandos, particularly her adopted family led by Kal Skirata. Darman and Etain shared a deep and secret love, which lasted until the fateful day of Order 66.

In the chaos of this order, Etain's life took a tragic turn. While she was trying to evade a security checkpoint on Coruscant, she found herself faced with a dire choice. Two Padawans from the Jedi Temple had foolishly activated their lightsabers, and one of them turned to attack a trooper whose helmet had been knocked off. Recognizing the young Padawans as her adopted siblings, Etain, in a moment of fierce protectiveness, shielded them, taking the blow intended for one of the troopers.

The Aftermath

Though the efforts of Darman and Niner were successful in safely moving Etain and her child, the loss was profound. After the incident, Etain and Darman were separated, and the child was taken to Mandalore by Kal. Darman was transferred to the 501st Legion, where he ultimately found himself hunting down Jedi, a task that was both contentious and personal due to his past relationship with Etain.

Both these stories highlight the intricate web of alliances, love, and loss that define the Star Wars Legends timeline. Whether it's the heartache of Chewbacca's passing or the bravery and self-sacrifice of Etain Tur-Mukan, these characters and their tales provide a poignant reminder of the weight of responsibility and the toll of war.