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Star Wars: The High Republic - The Edge of Balance #2
Star Wars: The High Republic - The Edge of Balance, Vol. 2
A massive, interconnected cross-publisher initiative focused on an all-new era of Star Wars storytelling.
Centuries before the Skywalker saga, a new adventure begins…
It is the era of the High Republic and interstellar expansion is at its height. As trusted guardians of peace, the renowned Jedi protect the Republic and shine their light on those exploring the darkest reaches of the galaxy.
© & TM 2021 LUCASFILM LTD
Copyright © 2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.
Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi learns the Drengir attack on Banchii was not an isolated event but part of a coordinated attack orchestrated by the Nihil. Master Arkoff is on orders from the Jedi Council to help Master Stellan Gios’s investigation, leaving Lily in charge of rebuilding Banchii and restoring hope to the community. Lily vows the temple will not be put in danger again, not under her watch! When a disruptive unannounced visitor appears, Lily must maintain her focus as she seeks the best way to protect Banchii, Keerin, and the Younglings from the growing Nihil threat.
Centuries before the Skywalker saga, a new adventure begins…
It is the era of the High Republic and interstellar expansion is at its height. As trusted guardians of peace, the renowned Jedi protect the Republic and shine their light on those exploring the darkest reaches of the galaxy.
© & TM 2021 LUCASFILM LTD
Copyright © 2021 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All rights reserved.
Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi learns the Drengir attack on Banchii was not an isolated event but part of a coordinated attack orchestrated by the Nihil. Master Arkoff is on orders from the Jedi Council to help Master Stellan Gios’s investigation, leaving Lily in charge of rebuilding Banchii and restoring hope to the community. Lily vows the temple will not be put in danger again, not under her watch! When a disruptive unannounced visitor appears, Lily must maintain her focus as she seeks the best way to protect Banchii, Keerin, and the Younglings from the growing Nihil threat.
144 pages, Paperback
First published May 24, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
February 27, 2023
This is the second collection of a series set during the High Republic run. In this one Master Lily believes the planet she was assigned to protect along with her padawan is still in danger from the Nihil. She is proven correct in this assumption.
I felt this was along the same level of enjoyment for me as the first collection. This is manga for this universe. For me there are pros and cons to this type of genre for this universe. I do think the style does work for the overall story telling. My problem is that every single character looks like they belong in the same age group. We should have a generation gap between masters and padawans and initiates to the Jedi Order. Instead they all seem to be separated by just a couple of years. As for the story it is an excellent tie in with the overall High Republic story line. You will see parts in here that run simultaneously with other stories from this story arc. That includes other comic runs as well as the novels. I did like this story more than the first collection as I felt this one had more gravitas as there are repercussions to our heroes fighting in a war.
I liked this collection and I do like like this comic run. I believe some of my enjoyment is the use of manga for this universe. This is my introduction to manga and I like the change of pace for these comics in a galaxy far, far away. The story isn't blowing me away. It is enjoyable and I do appreciate that it is trying to tie in with the overall story arc and trying to be self contained. I do look forward to the next collection of this series.
I felt this was along the same level of enjoyment for me as the first collection. This is manga for this universe. For me there are pros and cons to this type of genre for this universe. I do think the style does work for the overall story telling. My problem is that every single character looks like they belong in the same age group. We should have a generation gap between masters and padawans and initiates to the Jedi Order. Instead they all seem to be separated by just a couple of years. As for the story it is an excellent tie in with the overall High Republic story line. You will see parts in here that run simultaneously with other stories from this story arc. That includes other comic runs as well as the novels. I did like this story more than the first collection as I felt this one had more gravitas as there are repercussions to our heroes fighting in a war.
I liked this collection and I do like like this comic run. I believe some of my enjoyment is the use of manga for this universe. This is my introduction to manga and I like the change of pace for these comics in a galaxy far, far away. The story isn't blowing me away. It is enjoyable and I do appreciate that it is trying to tie in with the overall story arc and trying to be self contained. I do look forward to the next collection of this series.
August 17, 2022
Better than volume 1
After the defeat of the Drengir, Lily has been left in charge of Banshi. She’s preparing for the Nihil’s return, but will it be enough. This volume seems to be a transition volume where we catch up on the rest of the events of the High Republic.
After the defeat of the Drengir, Lily has been left in charge of Banshi. She’s preparing for the Nihil’s return, but will it be enough. This volume seems to be a transition volume where we catch up on the rest of the events of the High Republic.
April 1, 2023
Another short and sweet High Republic story, this time in the format of a Manga. One of the advantages of this story is the smaller scope. It is much easier to read and understand than other High Republic stories, which tend to be hard to follow.
Part of the problem with these books is that you can read the entire story in less than 1 hour, sometimes closer to half an hour, and you don't get as much "bang-for-your-buck". These volumes cost $15 and it is hard to justify the cost to the average consumer. Its really the problem with Manga in general, but especially here.
I will say, the story seems incredibly straight forward, so much so that I wonder if Older simply outlined the plot beats and Shinya was told to design it for Manga formatting. Regardless, Its simplicity seems like a double edged sword, helping and hurting it.
Of course the main character, Lily Tora-Asi gets the most time of development here. She grows a lot for such a short issue. I thought that the inclusion of the new Jedi "Master Sav Malagan" brought a fresh perspective to the series, and I was a little on my toes whenever she was on the page. Seeing Starlight beacon was cool, although its only present for a few pages of the story.
Overall, I don't have too much to say because the story is just so short and I'd hate to ruin it. A fun quick read, something I would enjoy reading while waiting for an appointment or if I arrived too early at an event. But not too much meat on this story, and in my opinion, not near worth the price of the book. 7 out of 10.
Part of the problem with these books is that you can read the entire story in less than 1 hour, sometimes closer to half an hour, and you don't get as much "bang-for-your-buck". These volumes cost $15 and it is hard to justify the cost to the average consumer. Its really the problem with Manga in general, but especially here.
I will say, the story seems incredibly straight forward, so much so that I wonder if Older simply outlined the plot beats and Shinya was told to design it for Manga formatting. Regardless, Its simplicity seems like a double edged sword, helping and hurting it.
Of course the main character, Lily Tora-Asi gets the most time of development here. She grows a lot for such a short issue. I thought that the inclusion of the new Jedi "Master Sav Malagan" brought a fresh perspective to the series, and I was a little on my toes whenever she was on the page. Seeing Starlight beacon was cool, although its only present for a few pages of the story.
Overall, I don't have too much to say because the story is just so short and I'd hate to ruin it. A fun quick read, something I would enjoy reading while waiting for an appointment or if I arrived too early at an event. But not too much meat on this story, and in my opinion, not near worth the price of the book. 7 out of 10.
September 18, 2023
Героите, вече познати ни от Великата република: На ръба на равновесието, том 1 тук ще трябва да отблъснат атака на зловещите нихили, за които планетата Банчии представлява особен интерес. Дали просто като стратегическо място, или пък нещо, способно да подкопае устоите на Републиката е скрито там... Много се радвам на скоростта, с която Егмонт издават тези манга албуми и чакам с нетърпение третото томче.
May 18, 2025
More of the same from the first volume. Star Wars looks good in manga, and I appreciate the Banchii story line that's not too connected to the main plots in the other books. It's nice to have some characters in their own remote part of the galaxy.
Maybe it's just me, though, but I really thought Sav Malagán was a Nihil in disguise somehow. It seemed like she was setting the planet up for invasion.
Maybe it's just me, though, but I really thought Sav Malagán was a Nihil in disguise somehow. It seemed like she was setting the planet up for invasion.
March 14, 2022
I am in desperate need of more Star Wars in my life and I'm loving all the High Republic adventures so far- The Edge of Balance is an awesome manga - though from volume 1 to volume 2 there's been a bit of a dark turn, but I can't wait to see what more happens in volume 3!
March 23, 2023
Some History:
Not every manga contains color pages, but some of my favorites (like the Sailor Moon Eternal Edition) do. I love getting to see the artist's illustrations depicted in color, so I was excited to see that the second volume of The Edge of Balance manga featured a full-color illustration at the beginning. I only wish we could have had even more color illustrations here, especially as the end of the book included concept art of the characters.
Volume 1 had story credits shared between Shima Shinya and Justina Ireland, while volume 2 credits both Shima Shinya and Daniel Jose Older. Makes sense; some of Older’s characters from The High Republic Adventures reappear here.
Summary:
Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi learns the Drengir attack on Banchiii was not an isolated event, but part of a coordinated attack orchestrated by the Nihil—and with Master Arkoff away on a Jedi investigation, Lily vows the temple will not be put in danger again. But when a disruptive unannounced visitor appears, Lily must find the best way to protect her padawan Keerin, the Younglings, and the settlers from a Nihil threat that is even closer than she can imagine…
The Good:
—I'm a casual manga fan, so I’m inclined to like The Edge of Balance anyways. I think Mizuki Sakakibara’s artwork works really well here, and there were some especially lovely panels. It’s a little hard to tell characters’ ages, though—characters either look young or adult, there’s not much in-between. This was especially telling when Lily ran into Lula and Zeen on Starlight Beacon: Lily looks the same age as them or even younger, but she is a Jedi Knight and Lula is a padawan.
—This is definitely Lily's story. After the Drengir attack in the first volume, she just wants to keep everyone safe. She wants to build bunkers for safety, and she wants to make sure that everyone is prepared for another attack. But as their unannounced visitor tells her, she can’t be like stone or she’ll break. Lily has to learn to adapt to situations, and find new ways to cope with loss and counter this Nihil threat.
—I liked the unannounced visitor, Jedi Master Sav Malagán. I think she first appeared in The High Republic Adventures, and she was brusque and a bit cantankerous but also very wise. She also may reappear in volume 3 (whenever that’s released), as she chose to stay behind with Lily to hunt down Nihil stragglers.
—I also enjoyed getting to see Starlight Beacon before the traumatic events of The Fallen Star, The Jedi are having a race through the halls, and Lily lets the younglings join in. It’s a moment of fun and normalcy before returning to the grim reality on Banchii and afterwards.
The Meh:
—Volume 2 is even shorter than volume one, and it felt like a stepping stone—less a story in and of itself, and more like the necessary actions needed to move Lily to the next phase of the story. But with Phase II, the High Republic has jumped back 150 years before Light of the Jedi, so I don’t expect volume 3 any time soon. Coming off of only one preceding volume, I didn’t feel like there was a ton of story here. I don’t expect super intricate plots from a single manga volume, but volume 2 felt slightly abrupt.
—My bigger issue with volume 2 was that the traumatic death towards the end didn’t feel earned, because we’re only two slight books into the story. But with the focus so heavily on Lily, I felt like the other characters weren’t as fleshed out, so this death didn’t hit me with the same emotional thump as others have.
My Verdict:
If you enjoyed volume 1 of The Edge of Balance, I would check out volume 2 as well. Sakakibara's artwork remains the biggest draw for me, but I also enjoyed Lily's arc. My biggest issue here is that Lily’s story is left hanging until Phase III (the next manga will be a prequel, The Edge of Balance: Precedent) so while volume 3 was confirmed at the end, it won’t be coming for some time.
My YouTube review: https://youtu.be/xx2cIfSZvgk
Not every manga contains color pages, but some of my favorites (like the Sailor Moon Eternal Edition) do. I love getting to see the artist's illustrations depicted in color, so I was excited to see that the second volume of The Edge of Balance manga featured a full-color illustration at the beginning. I only wish we could have had even more color illustrations here, especially as the end of the book included concept art of the characters.
Volume 1 had story credits shared between Shima Shinya and Justina Ireland, while volume 2 credits both Shima Shinya and Daniel Jose Older. Makes sense; some of Older’s characters from The High Republic Adventures reappear here.
Summary:
Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi learns the Drengir attack on Banchiii was not an isolated event, but part of a coordinated attack orchestrated by the Nihil—and with Master Arkoff away on a Jedi investigation, Lily vows the temple will not be put in danger again. But when a disruptive unannounced visitor appears, Lily must find the best way to protect her padawan Keerin, the Younglings, and the settlers from a Nihil threat that is even closer than she can imagine…
The Good:
—I'm a casual manga fan, so I’m inclined to like The Edge of Balance anyways. I think Mizuki Sakakibara’s artwork works really well here, and there were some especially lovely panels. It’s a little hard to tell characters’ ages, though—characters either look young or adult, there’s not much in-between. This was especially telling when Lily ran into Lula and Zeen on Starlight Beacon: Lily looks the same age as them or even younger, but she is a Jedi Knight and Lula is a padawan.
—This is definitely Lily's story. After the Drengir attack in the first volume, she just wants to keep everyone safe. She wants to build bunkers for safety, and she wants to make sure that everyone is prepared for another attack. But as their unannounced visitor tells her, she can’t be like stone or she’ll break. Lily has to learn to adapt to situations, and find new ways to cope with loss and counter this Nihil threat.
—I liked the unannounced visitor, Jedi Master Sav Malagán. I think she first appeared in The High Republic Adventures, and she was brusque and a bit cantankerous but also very wise. She also may reappear in volume 3 (whenever that’s released), as she chose to stay behind with Lily to hunt down Nihil stragglers.
—I also enjoyed getting to see Starlight Beacon before the traumatic events of The Fallen Star, The Jedi are having a race through the halls, and Lily lets the younglings join in. It’s a moment of fun and normalcy before returning to the grim reality on Banchii and afterwards.
The Meh:
—Volume 2 is even shorter than volume one, and it felt like a stepping stone—less a story in and of itself, and more like the necessary actions needed to move Lily to the next phase of the story. But with Phase II, the High Republic has jumped back 150 years before Light of the Jedi, so I don’t expect volume 3 any time soon. Coming off of only one preceding volume, I didn’t feel like there was a ton of story here. I don’t expect super intricate plots from a single manga volume, but volume 2 felt slightly abrupt.
—My bigger issue with volume 2 was that the traumatic death towards the end didn’t feel earned, because we’re only two slight books into the story. But with the focus so heavily on Lily, I felt like the other characters weren’t as fleshed out, so this death didn’t hit me with the same emotional thump as others have.
My Verdict:
If you enjoyed volume 1 of The Edge of Balance, I would check out volume 2 as well. Sakakibara's artwork remains the biggest draw for me, but I also enjoyed Lily's arc. My biggest issue here is that Lily’s story is left hanging until Phase III (the next manga will be a prequel, The Edge of Balance: Precedent) so while volume 3 was confirmed at the end, it won’t be coming for some time.
My YouTube review: https://youtu.be/xx2cIfSZvgk
August 14, 2022
Yeah, I’m all in now. I really like this style and this story. I need to know when the 3rd one is coming out. I have decided that I know only really like Master Lily Tora-Asi but I also really like new Jedi Master Sav Malagán, I their lightsabers and the way the two interacted with each other. I hope to see more of it in the next one. It’s nice to see stakes and consequences, not many of the High Republic comics have had those aspects. It was nice to see interiors of the Starlight Beacon and have this connect a little more with the larger story but still have it feel contained. I almost wish these were longer though, I seem to fly though them even with no natural stopping points. With Phase 2 starting soon hopefully we’ll see volume 3 of this pretty soon. Now I only have 4 High Republic comics left to read.
June 2, 2025
Someone literally died in this and like it’s sad sure but do I really care? Honestly no.
These mangas really need to have more to them because you’re just not given enough time to get invested in what’s happening
These mangas really need to have more to them because you’re just not given enough time to get invested in what’s happening
May 23, 2022
okay so A LOT happened. The whiplash of going to the fun race at starlight beacon back to the Nihil attack on Banchii hurt!
June 23, 2022
Once again, not awful...just not my preferred way to tell this sort of story. Like, everyone but the younglings look the same age and the story seems to be missing important prose in this format. But some interesting world building none the less!
April 20, 2024
eu tô realmente surpreso com o desfecho e com o desenrolar dessa história! amei demaisdemaisdemais, msm q o Chato José Older tenha (como sempre) dado um jeito d enfiar Lula e Zeen aqui
February 23, 2022
Just when you think it's safe to like a character, Daniel Jose Older writes a book with them.
This story is good, much more connected than the previous one. We get to see many of the other things DJO has been working on, Zeen and Lula, the Great Jedi Rumble Race, BUCKETS OF BLOOD, and Sav Malagan. The story ties in too the plot of The Fallen Star and for a section of the book I was worried they'd be on it during the fall.
This story is good, much more connected than the previous one. We get to see many of the other things DJO has been working on, Zeen and Lula, the Great Jedi Rumble Race, BUCKETS OF BLOOD, and Sav Malagan. The story ties in too the plot of The Fallen Star and for a section of the book I was worried they'd be on it during the fall.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2022
Omg I need volume 3 like asap!!!!
Read
September 18, 2023MANGAFIED MRALISOLA I JUST BURST OUT CRYING
July 23, 2022
”I am not like Master Arkoff.... – But don’t get me wrong. I’m not trying to be like him. As Master Arkoff wished, I must do this my own way. Also… I have you, Keerin. I know you will go farther than me someday…”
Volume 2 of Edge of Balance continues the story of Lily Tora-Asi and her friends as they try their best to keep the settlers of Banchii safe from the Nihil's vicious attacks. This volume is more connected to the overall story of the High Republic - we see a lot of familiar faces, the events of this story are tied more closely to those of other books and the scope of the story just overall feels bigger. The stakes are higher and our characters are tested like never before.
This volume was great fun to read, just like the first one. I loved how different it was to vol. 1 but how it also had that same charm, humor, action and gorgeous art. The characters' journeys continued in interesting ways. I grew even more attached to our leading lady, Lily, who is struggling with wanting to do what is right and the best way to protect Banchii but also not quite knowing what that is. Seeing her meet characters (like Sav Malagan) who challenge her way of thinking and her tendency to be quite set in her ways was intriguing. She is such a awesome character. I also just loved how this book explored her friendship with her padawan Keerin and the two younglings on Banchii, Viv'nia and Nima. Seeing familiar faces from other stories, like Sav, Lula, Zeen and Sabata, was also so much fun. I liked how DJO dropped these connections to his other works without it feeling overbearing or distracting.
As I mentioned, the stakes are a bit higher in this book and it definitely gets a bit darker on occasion. The first volume had some awesome, creepy stuff going on with the Drengir, but there's this oppressive energy in this volume where the more you read the more certain you are that something bad is going to happen soon. I liked how Shinya and DJO created these foreboding vibes.
These are lesser known High Republic stories and while you do not have to read them to understand the whole plot - they are more focused on just one cell of characters - I would highly recommend them. The characters are endearing and distinctive, the art is gorgeous and it's just good SW fun with lots of laughs, a little bit of heartbreak and danger, hella cute friendships and tons of hopefulness.
Volume 2 of Edge of Balance continues the story of Lily Tora-Asi and her friends as they try their best to keep the settlers of Banchii safe from the Nihil's vicious attacks. This volume is more connected to the overall story of the High Republic - we see a lot of familiar faces, the events of this story are tied more closely to those of other books and the scope of the story just overall feels bigger. The stakes are higher and our characters are tested like never before.
This volume was great fun to read, just like the first one. I loved how different it was to vol. 1 but how it also had that same charm, humor, action and gorgeous art. The characters' journeys continued in interesting ways. I grew even more attached to our leading lady, Lily, who is struggling with wanting to do what is right and the best way to protect Banchii but also not quite knowing what that is. Seeing her meet characters (like Sav Malagan) who challenge her way of thinking and her tendency to be quite set in her ways was intriguing. She is such a awesome character. I also just loved how this book explored her friendship with her padawan Keerin and the two younglings on Banchii, Viv'nia and Nima. Seeing familiar faces from other stories, like Sav, Lula, Zeen and Sabata, was also so much fun. I liked how DJO dropped these connections to his other works without it feeling overbearing or distracting.
As I mentioned, the stakes are a bit higher in this book and it definitely gets a bit darker on occasion. The first volume had some awesome, creepy stuff going on with the Drengir, but there's this oppressive energy in this volume where the more you read the more certain you are that something bad is going to happen soon. I liked how Shinya and DJO created these foreboding vibes.
These are lesser known High Republic stories and while you do not have to read them to understand the whole plot - they are more focused on just one cell of characters - I would highly recommend them. The characters are endearing and distinctive, the art is gorgeous and it's just good SW fun with lots of laughs, a little bit of heartbreak and danger, hella cute friendships and tons of hopefulness.
June 27, 2022
On the planet Banchii, Jedi Knight Lily Tora-Asi and her Padawan Keerin Fionn have helped their temple survive the attacks by the Drengir (see last Volume), but now they face threat from the Nihil themselves. The arrival of Sav Malagan, a Jedi Master from Takodana, sends Lily with two younglings, Nima and Viv'nia, off to Starlight Beacon, both so she can report, and request assistance for Banchii.
While away, the Nihil attack and upon her return, Lily learns a hard lesson that is threefold: Keerin is killed by a Nihil spy, the Jedi Temple on Banchii is destroyed, and (like the other books) Starlight Beacon has fallen. All seems lost for the jedi...
Really love the manga style here for "Edge of Balance". It is wonderfully written and really allows Star Wars to expand into a world where they haven't pushed in huge yet.
Recommend. Can't wait for Volume 3...
While away, the Nihil attack and upon her return, Lily learns a hard lesson that is threefold: Keerin is killed by a Nihil spy, the Jedi Temple on Banchii is destroyed, and (like the other books) Starlight Beacon has fallen. All seems lost for the jedi...
Really love the manga style here for "Edge of Balance". It is wonderfully written and really allows Star Wars to expand into a world where they haven't pushed in huge yet.
Recommend. Can't wait for Volume 3...
May 4, 2022
Jsem si říkala, jak oslavím letošní SW den. Nakonec jsem sáhla po druhém dílu téhle mangy a i když tato manga není tolik vidět, tak je víc zajímavější, než nejpopulárnější SW rozjeté komiksové série. Děj se sice trochu váže k základním High republic knihám, narozdíl od jiných materiálů se ale tady bez nich obejdete stejně jako v prvním díle. Kresba jako minule pěkná, klasická manga kresba. Cením opět zapojení japonské kultury a vyprávění (Sav Malagán mi přímo křičí samuraje, moc se těším na další materiály s ní) a Lily Tori-Asi je dobře napsaná postava. Nechybí ani pěkně napsaná a nakreslená akce. Řekla bych, že je to i lépe napsané, protože scénář tentokrát psal Daniel José Older a píše prostě komiksy lépe, než Justina Ireland, která prostě lépe píše romány. Jenom mě prostě štve, že to nemá dílů, kolik by to potřebovalo. Chtělo by to rozvést. Třeba jedno další volumko za tuhle HR fázi. Ale jinak příjemná záležitost na SW den.
April 9, 2024
6/10:
While the art and core of this story are really enjoyable, there’s just so little time with these characters that it makes it really hard to get invested in them. Both Lily and Keerin are unique Jedi who have dedicated their lives to protecting Banchii, but we haven’t really seen much else from them.
I hope the story of this small farming world continues in great ways as the High Republic continues to tell its stories. Because as of right now, this is so painfully mediocre.
While the art and core of this story are really enjoyable, there’s just so little time with these characters that it makes it really hard to get invested in them. Both Lily and Keerin are unique Jedi who have dedicated their lives to protecting Banchii, but we haven’t really seen much else from them.
I hope the story of this small farming world continues in great ways as the High Republic continues to tell its stories. Because as of right now, this is so painfully mediocre.
August 11, 2022
This was a nice continuation of the previous one. The stakes are high, and you can really feel that from both the writing and the art styles. I don't find this story to be particularly important for the overall story of THR, but it's a solid addition, nonetheless.
April 27, 2025
Comic muy entretenido que continúa la historia de Lily y su padawan Keerin en el planeta Banshii. Mejor que el primer tomo, me ha gustado más. No me esperaba la muerte de Keerin, pero al final todo añade a la historia. Con ganas de seguir con el tercero.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2025
wauw wat was dit gaafe en 100 keer beter dan de voirge manga en al die cameo,s van adventures was gewoon gweldig
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 26, 2024
Nawww not Keerin. :(
I was happy to see Sav here tho. I was not big on her appearance in the THRA phase 1 comics, but phase 2 THRA really changed my mind about her. She was really cool in this story, and a great Jedi to counter Lily's rigidity.
I was happy to see Sav here tho. I was not big on her appearance in the THRA phase 1 comics, but phase 2 THRA really changed my mind about her. She was really cool in this story, and a great Jedi to counter Lily's rigidity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2022
Better than volume 1 but riddled with typos?
December 24, 2023
I escaped The Fallen Star relatively unscathed. But this one hurt, I had to put it down because I wasn’t okay! I finished it a week or so ago and it still. Fucking. Hurts!!! There is something so raw and heartbreaking about a Congratulations to the whole team, this was a great read.
July 5, 2024
After reading more from The High Republic, it really made this manga so much more fun to re-read. Lots of interesting cameos and characters from the novels and graphic novels.
April 21, 2025
"Any small action now can affect our situation. A massive waterfall is still composed of drops of water."
February 26, 2022
Well, it was only a matter of time before the quietest, most peaceful corners of the galaxy became embroiled in tragedy.
Following the disastrous Drengir attack instigated by the Nihil, Jedi Master Lili Tora-Asi is striving to ensure the refugee and settler community under her care on Banchii are protected against any further threats. In her staunch determination to do right by them, Lily corners herself into the kind of rigidity she can’t afford. While Lily worries about everyone, her padawan Keerin Fionn worries about her in turn, but just as she’s assuring him not to, a new face arrives on Banchii.
Master Sav Malagán, who makes the leap from the High Republic Adventures comics, arrives to check on them in the wake of a Nihil attack on the Jedi Temple on Takodana. While Lily tries to demonstrate what she’s setting up to keep the people of Banchii safe if an attack happens again, Malagán warns her not to be too rigid and expect even the attacks to go to plan. Her point is proven immediately when one of the bunkers explodes and they find a planted bomb within.
Cut communications mean that Lily, along with younglings Nima and Viv’nia travel to the Starlight Beacon to report the incident to Lily’s mentor Master Arkoff.
I would also be remiss if I let this go by without thanking everyone involved for giving me not one but both of my faves in this issue. Terrifying Marchion and a surprise Stellan? Yes please.
While in the first installment, the connections to the larger High Republic happened in the form of Stellan Gios visiting Banchii, here we get to see familiar locations and characters from the story as rendered by artist Mizuki Sakakibara - including a little peek at a certain rules-free Jedi race!
Written by Shima Shinya and Daniel José Older, Edge of Balace vol. 2 is ultimately the story of one Jedi’s determination to stand strong in the face of unprecedented threats. The important lesson Lily draws - which honestly applies to the Jedi of this era as a whole - is that for them to have any chance of winning she can’t be as immovable as stone, but rather to be like water. A lesson that serves her well in the face of the unspeakable tragedy that brings this volume to a close.
With the mounting Nihil threat moving to Banchii, thanks to a spy hidden among the settlers, Lily’s troubles are far from over. But she goes into Edge of Balance vol. 3 (no release date yet) a stronger, more focused Jedi, setting her apart from counterparts like Vernestra Rwoh, who are still learning the hard lessons.
The Edge of Balance series feels like one of the more underrated parts of The High Republic and that feels like a genuine shame. While nothing can ever truly be “slice of life” in the middle of constant catastrophe, this series is as close as it gets. With the characters so removed from the people and events of the main run of books and comics, the manga is a peek at how the people on the fringe of the big events are coping with everything without the resources afforded the others. It’s a small glimpse into a much larger picture, and fills in the lines of the larger universe, while telling a complete, character-driven narrative all its own.
Edge of Balance vol. 2 is available digitally now, and in print May 24th.
Special Thanks to VIZ Media for the advance copy for review purposes.
Following the disastrous Drengir attack instigated by the Nihil, Jedi Master Lili Tora-Asi is striving to ensure the refugee and settler community under her care on Banchii are protected against any further threats. In her staunch determination to do right by them, Lily corners herself into the kind of rigidity she can’t afford. While Lily worries about everyone, her padawan Keerin Fionn worries about her in turn, but just as she’s assuring him not to, a new face arrives on Banchii.
Master Sav Malagán, who makes the leap from the High Republic Adventures comics, arrives to check on them in the wake of a Nihil attack on the Jedi Temple on Takodana. While Lily tries to demonstrate what she’s setting up to keep the people of Banchii safe if an attack happens again, Malagán warns her not to be too rigid and expect even the attacks to go to plan. Her point is proven immediately when one of the bunkers explodes and they find a planted bomb within.
Cut communications mean that Lily, along with younglings Nima and Viv’nia travel to the Starlight Beacon to report the incident to Lily’s mentor Master Arkoff.
I would also be remiss if I let this go by without thanking everyone involved for giving me not one but both of my faves in this issue. Terrifying Marchion and a surprise Stellan? Yes please.
While in the first installment, the connections to the larger High Republic happened in the form of Stellan Gios visiting Banchii, here we get to see familiar locations and characters from the story as rendered by artist Mizuki Sakakibara - including a little peek at a certain rules-free Jedi race!
Written by Shima Shinya and Daniel José Older, Edge of Balace vol. 2 is ultimately the story of one Jedi’s determination to stand strong in the face of unprecedented threats. The important lesson Lily draws - which honestly applies to the Jedi of this era as a whole - is that for them to have any chance of winning she can’t be as immovable as stone, but rather to be like water. A lesson that serves her well in the face of the unspeakable tragedy that brings this volume to a close.
With the mounting Nihil threat moving to Banchii, thanks to a spy hidden among the settlers, Lily’s troubles are far from over. But she goes into Edge of Balance vol. 3 (no release date yet) a stronger, more focused Jedi, setting her apart from counterparts like Vernestra Rwoh, who are still learning the hard lessons.
The Edge of Balance series feels like one of the more underrated parts of The High Republic and that feels like a genuine shame. While nothing can ever truly be “slice of life” in the middle of constant catastrophe, this series is as close as it gets. With the characters so removed from the people and events of the main run of books and comics, the manga is a peek at how the people on the fringe of the big events are coping with everything without the resources afforded the others. It’s a small glimpse into a much larger picture, and fills in the lines of the larger universe, while telling a complete, character-driven narrative all its own.
Edge of Balance vol. 2 is available digitally now, and in print May 24th.
Special Thanks to VIZ Media for the advance copy for review purposes.
September 26, 2023
W maju recenzowałam pierwszą część mangi Na skraju równowagi z uniwersum Gwiezdnych Wojen. Nie była zbyt dobra, ale wystarczająca, abym dała jej drugą szansę. Poza tym dotyczy Wielkiej Republiki, której jestem absolutną fanką.
Za scenariusz odpowiada Shima Shinya oraz Daniel José Older. Ten drugi napisał powieść Na ratunek Valo, dla wyżej wymienionej serii. Książka nie porwała mnie jakoś specjalnie. Jak wykazał się w obiekcie dzisiejszej recenzji?
Wszystko po kolei.
Przede wszystkim, aby zrozumieć, co się dzieje, należy sięgnąć po powieści Wielkiej Republiki, które są podstawą serii. Akcja dzieje się między tytułami Burza Nadciąga a Gasnącą Gwiazdą.
Na Banchii osiedlili się ludzie, którzy mocno ucierpieli w trakcie Katastrofy Nadprzestrzennej, spowodowanej przez nihilów. Za ochronę odpowiada rycerka Jedi Lily Tora-Asi i jej padawan Keerin Fionn. Sprawują pieczę również nad młodzikami Nimą i Viv’nią.
W poprzedniej części, na planetę przedarł się wróg i wyrządził kolejne szkody. Ponadto wszyscy próbują się pozbierać po wydarzeniach z Festiwalu Republiki, opisanych w książce Burza Nadciąga.
Jak wypadli inni?
Nima i Viv’nia to słodkie dziewczynki, które dopiero przygotowują się do zostania padawankami. Zawsze trzymają się razem, wszystko je zachwyca, ale próbują wyciągnąć jak najwięcej nauki od Lily i Keerina. Uważam, że trudno buduje się dziecięce, jednocześnie nieirytujące postacie. Tutaj się to udało. Jedyne, do czego muszę się przyczepić to tłumaczenie. Młodzik to dziecko, które dopiero zaczyna szkolenie. Słowo jak słowo, ale po co zmieniać je na „młodziczki”? To brzmi tak źle… W filmach, serialach i pozostałych elementach uniwersum, używano określenia „młodziki” niezależnie od płci. Bo w takim razie jak zwracać się do istoty, która jest rasy nieposiadającej rodzaju żeńskiego ani męskiego? Poza tym boli mnie to w oczy.
Przejdźmy do Mistrzyni Sav Malagán. To kobieta wywodząca się z gatunku Kyuzo. Jak wcześniej wspomniałam, ma całkiem inne podejście niż główna bohaterka, więc oczywiście przypadła mi do gustu. Jej postać jest tajemnicza, ale również potrafi okazać swoje długoletnie doświadczenie. Czasem można odnieść wrażenie, że jej główna cecha to bezwzględność, innym razem natomiast udowadnia, iż posiada rozbudowaną empatię.
Nie uważam, że jest to pozycja, z którą trzeba się zapoznać. Podobnie jak poprzednia część, pełni rolę dodatku do pierwszej fazy serii Wielkiej Republiki. Nie wnosi żadnych informacji. Poznajemy jedynie nowych bohaterów. Być może w części trzeciej to się zmieni. Jeśli jesteście zagorzałymi kolekcjonerami i wielbicielami Gwiezdnych Wojen, możecie się skusić. Jeśli nie, lepiej sięgnąć po coś innego.
Więcej na: CzasoStrefa
Za scenariusz odpowiada Shima Shinya oraz Daniel José Older. Ten drugi napisał powieść Na ratunek Valo, dla wyżej wymienionej serii. Książka nie porwała mnie jakoś specjalnie. Jak wykazał się w obiekcie dzisiejszej recenzji?
Wszystko po kolei.
Przede wszystkim, aby zrozumieć, co się dzieje, należy sięgnąć po powieści Wielkiej Republiki, które są podstawą serii. Akcja dzieje się między tytułami Burza Nadciąga a Gasnącą Gwiazdą.
Na Banchii osiedlili się ludzie, którzy mocno ucierpieli w trakcie Katastrofy Nadprzestrzennej, spowodowanej przez nihilów. Za ochronę odpowiada rycerka Jedi Lily Tora-Asi i jej padawan Keerin Fionn. Sprawują pieczę również nad młodzikami Nimą i Viv’nią.
W poprzedniej części, na planetę przedarł się wróg i wyrządził kolejne szkody. Ponadto wszyscy próbują się pozbierać po wydarzeniach z Festiwalu Republiki, opisanych w książce Burza Nadciąga.
Jak wypadli inni?
Nima i Viv’nia to słodkie dziewczynki, które dopiero przygotowują się do zostania padawankami. Zawsze trzymają się razem, wszystko je zachwyca, ale próbują wyciągnąć jak najwięcej nauki od Lily i Keerina. Uważam, że trudno buduje się dziecięce, jednocześnie nieirytujące postacie. Tutaj się to udało. Jedyne, do czego muszę się przyczepić to tłumaczenie. Młodzik to dziecko, które dopiero zaczyna szkolenie. Słowo jak słowo, ale po co zmieniać je na „młodziczki”? To brzmi tak źle… W filmach, serialach i pozostałych elementach uniwersum, używano określenia „młodziki” niezależnie od płci. Bo w takim razie jak zwracać się do istoty, która jest rasy nieposiadającej rodzaju żeńskiego ani męskiego? Poza tym boli mnie to w oczy.
Przejdźmy do Mistrzyni Sav Malagán. To kobieta wywodząca się z gatunku Kyuzo. Jak wcześniej wspomniałam, ma całkiem inne podejście niż główna bohaterka, więc oczywiście przypadła mi do gustu. Jej postać jest tajemnicza, ale również potrafi okazać swoje długoletnie doświadczenie. Czasem można odnieść wrażenie, że jej główna cecha to bezwzględność, innym razem natomiast udowadnia, iż posiada rozbudowaną empatię.
Nie uważam, że jest to pozycja, z którą trzeba się zapoznać. Podobnie jak poprzednia część, pełni rolę dodatku do pierwszej fazy serii Wielkiej Republiki. Nie wnosi żadnych informacji. Poznajemy jedynie nowych bohaterów. Być może w części trzeciej to się zmieni. Jeśli jesteście zagorzałymi kolekcjonerami i wielbicielami Gwiezdnych Wojen, możecie się skusić. Jeśli nie, lepiej sięgnąć po coś innego.
Więcej na: CzasoStrefa
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November 6, 2022
I didn’t hate this manga tie-in to The High Republic, would’ve been annoyed at myself for having skipped it (or any part of this amazeballs multimedia project); however, after reading it, feel that it’s mostly redundant. I’m going to try and objectively rate it below:
⭐️ Characterizations: 4/5 - as per any typical manga, it can be hard to tell anyone’s age due to their cherub-like features. How old is Lily? 16? 20? 25? In contrast, it’s really nice seeing excellent renderings of Sabata, Marchion, Lula, Zeen, and Stellan Gios.
⭐️ Art: 3/5 - most of the environments depicted are fleshed out, with lots of small details sprinkled in. There are also many panels that are just white; which makes me the product feel cheapened. The shortness of this manga doesn’t help this reader feel the tendrils of Disney’s miserliness.
⭐️ Dialogue: 2/5 - like other Daniel José Older works, the dialogue reads in a stilted, unnatural way. I don’t feel that these (supposedly) war-torn and lived characters would talk, think, and interact with such perfect sentences and phrases. At times, all of the emotions hinge on the dialogue (versus the visuals and chosen fonts, which stay fairly static at emotional times), but since the dialogue is always so perfect, it feels stale and childish. If only this manga could use concepts such as fonts or visuals to display those emotions…
⭐️ Plot: 2/5 - the plot of this entry is definitely improved over the first book; although, it feels pretty unnecessary when compared to the adult novels or anything graced by the majesty of Claudia Gray. This media’s character, Lily, feels like a rehash of Vernestra or Lula. I think this product may have been better off focusing on a previously used character that already has depth and build. Otherwise, more backstory on Lily’s training, as a Padawan or youngling, would have strengthened this reader’s interest in her.
⭐️ Characterizations: 4/5 - as per any typical manga, it can be hard to tell anyone’s age due to their cherub-like features. How old is Lily? 16? 20? 25? In contrast, it’s really nice seeing excellent renderings of Sabata, Marchion, Lula, Zeen, and Stellan Gios.
⭐️ Art: 3/5 - most of the environments depicted are fleshed out, with lots of small details sprinkled in. There are also many panels that are just white; which makes me the product feel cheapened. The shortness of this manga doesn’t help this reader feel the tendrils of Disney’s miserliness.
⭐️ Dialogue: 2/5 - like other Daniel José Older works, the dialogue reads in a stilted, unnatural way. I don’t feel that these (supposedly) war-torn and lived characters would talk, think, and interact with such perfect sentences and phrases. At times, all of the emotions hinge on the dialogue (versus the visuals and chosen fonts, which stay fairly static at emotional times), but since the dialogue is always so perfect, it feels stale and childish. If only this manga could use concepts such as fonts or visuals to display those emotions…
⭐️ Plot: 2/5 - the plot of this entry is definitely improved over the first book; although, it feels pretty unnecessary when compared to the adult novels or anything graced by the majesty of Claudia Gray. This media’s character, Lily, feels like a rehash of Vernestra or Lula. I think this product may have been better off focusing on a previously used character that already has depth and build. Otherwise, more backstory on Lily’s training, as a Padawan or youngling, would have strengthened this reader’s interest in her.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews