The opening chapter of Star Wars’ latest volume officially kicked off the New Republic era, bridging the gap between “Return of the Jedi” and “The Force Awakens.” The first issue set up a number of plot-threads and introduced a number of new characters, including Rebel pilot Rynn Zenat, Imperial Grand Moff Adelhard, and Reyna Oskure, a member of the mysterious Acolytes of the Beyond. In Star Wars: Battle of Jakku – Insurgency Rising #2, these new players begin moving into position for a game that will prove to be deadly.

The New Republic has only just begun and is already facing threats from all sides. Grand Moff Adelhard is desperate to restore the Empire but as only he sees fit. But the seeds of dissent are being sowed across the galaxy, as Imperial factions begin plotting against the ambitious governor, seeking an alliance with the Acolytes of the Beyond. Meanwhile the vacuum of power has inspired the Spice Runners of Kijimi to seek an alliance with Adelhard and somehow convince the Hutts to join them in restoring the Empire. Fortunately a ragtag task force of Rebels is being sent to engage Adelhard…or die trying.

After a solid first chapter, this second issue is a bit disjointed. There is a lot going on (I didn’t even mention Luke’s journey to a place called “Palpatine’s Observatory”) and it all somehow seems to both drag and feel rushed. It’s certainly not bad, per se but writer Alex Segura was already juggling several plot-lines before tossing more into the mix. The grim tone, focus on politics, and growing cast make the proceedings feel more like “Game of Thrones”, minus that franchise’s more graphic sensibilities.

The art-team of Leonard Kirk and Rachelle Rosenberg deliver another gorgeous issue, giving each new set piece its own color palette and tone. While there’s a lot more talking than action, Kirk’s layouts keep everything at an even pace and the character designs are top-notch; new character Zeva Bliss already deserves her own action figure. Despite the story’s shortcomings, there’s a lot of intriguing developments and the cliffhanger ending guarantees I’ll be here for issue three.