those in which all the other rally round to support him in his trauma

Ugh, that would be quite as bad, yes. I think if he survived, he'd no longer be leader at least. The only PGP idea for a story that I've had myself was one in which Vila and Avon basically trade roles: Vila becomes the leader while Avon tags along being useful, foregoing all the important decision making.

...But I still think it's kinder to have him put down before that point... :-P