The Fate of Emperor's Royal Guards after Return of the Jedi

At the end of Return of the Jedi, the Emperor's Royal Guards, also known as Imperial Guards, play a minor but significant role during the duel between Luke Skywalker and Emperor Palpatine. Their loyalty, however, wavers as they do not intervene to protect the Emperor even when he is betrayed by Darth Vader, who subsequently throws him into a reactor shaft. This pivotal scene raises many questions about the ultimate fate of these guards. Beyond the tangible connection to the film itself, it invites an exploration of the broader fate of these guards within the rich tapestry of Star Wars lore.

Imperial Loyalty and Authority

Before delving into the various possible fates of the Imperial Guards, it is important to understand their role within the Empire. These guards were handpicked elite soldiers, dedicated to serving the Emperor Palpatine. Their loyalty was absolute, and they were willing to lay down their lives for the Emperor's cause. However, their reliability and loyalty are put to the test when the historic duel of Luke Skywalker and Darth Vader takes place. Their failure to intervene suggests a complex web of emotions and loyalties within the Imperial ranks. The guards' decision to stand by and watch as the Emperor is betrayed could signify their reluctance to act against Vader, fearing the consequences of such a decision.

The Dispersal of the Imperial Guards

The vast majority of the Imperial Guards on the second Death Star were killed in the ensuing conflict. However, a significant number managed to escape with other personnel aboard shuttles, seeking refuge and a chance to reorganize. The guards stationed with high-ranking Imperials on important bases such as the Imperial Palace on Coruscant, Darth Vader's castle, or Byss faced different fates. Some heard of the Emperor's death and reacted in various ways.

Mass Suicide and Desperate Measures

The destruction of the Emperor presented a crisis of authority and legitimacy. In the face of this, many guards opted for dramatic, desperate measures. They engaged in mass suicide or rampaged wildly across their bases, trying to follow the closest powerful figure they could find to maintain order. This chaos and disorganization paints a stark picture of the guards' vulnerability in the wake of the Empire's collapse.

Survivors and Their Plots

For those who survived, the situation was far from stable. Some deserters managed to hide their armor in trophy rooms and attempt a peaceful life, while others chose to follow former Imperial leaders such as Grand Vizier Mas Amedda, Admiral Galius Rax, and Rae Sloane. These surviving guards had the option to:

Join the First Order: Some of the more opportunistic individuals joined the nascent First Order, using their expertise to support a new regime. Turn themselves in: Others felt the weight of their actions and turned themselves over to the New Republic, seeking trials or deals for a peaceful future. Reorganize their Academy: A small faction aimed to reestablish their academy as a base of operations, yet most were met with resistance and ultimately killed by other factions of the Empire.

Those who chose to stay at their posts were likely killed by rebel or New Republic forces or captured and imprisoned. The fates of the Imperial Guards post-Jedi reveal a complex interplay of loyalty, betrayal, and survival.

Conclusion

The extensive and varied fates of the Emperor's Royal Guards after Return of the Jedi highlight the intricate nature of leadership and loyalty within the Imperial ranks. While many faced grim fates, some managed to adapt and survive, albeit in different forms. The legacy of these guards continues to resonate in the wider Star Wars universe, echoing the broader themes of power, survival, and the fall of empires.