Banner of the Stars II had a bit of a rocky beginning with a slightly disjointed plot. The second volume of the series regains focus on current events at the expense of losing the big picture. It was the right direction to take, though, and we the viewers are rewarded with more top-notch drama that is worthy of the Banner name.

Volume 2 begins with a diplomatic crisis, as a group of prisoners on Lobnoss II begins to revolt. Jinto decides to stay on the planet until the women are safely transported into space. That effort isn't without its hangups, though, and the rebelling prisoners are gaining ground. Meanwhile, in space, a United Mankind fleet is dangerously close to Lobnoss II, but an Abh fleet commanded by Admiral Spoor is also nearby....

Jinto gets himself into quite a predicament in this volume. Then again, he's good at that.	Lafiel doesn't say so, but I think she wants to beat him over the head with a baseball bat for being an idiot.

This volume is the first since Crest of the Stars to focus on land conflict. The interesting thing here is that Jinto is forced to make tough decisions on his own in this volume, and part of his true character is revealed. Another item of interest is the circumstance. The fact that Jinto was a land-dweller makes him well-suited for the task at hand, but the tools that the Abh have at their disposal to deal with this crisis are another story - it would be easier for them to end the conflict by frying the atmosphere instead of evacuating the women who wish to be off the planet. The situation becomes not only a real challenge to Jinto, but also a risk to his well-being. It is also trying for Lafiel, who must retain her composure as commanding officer while her friend is in danger.

Not a lot happens in space in this volume, but what does happen is significant. Lafiel meets with resistance as she petitions Spoor for protection from the oncoming United Mankind fleet. The great thing about this particular exchange is that it serves as a reminder of how intricate the Abh political system is, as well as how talented the high-ranking Abh are with debate. Lafiel isn't much interested in a prolonged debate, however, and this causes tension. Finally, this volume sheds light on how those who would commit a violent crime against an Abh (outside of combat) are dealt with, and it's not a pretty sight. Overall, this volume accomplishes quite a bit over the previous one. It is exciting and regains its original charm and focus.

The packaging for this volume features the main characters involved in the land skirmish, as well as Lafiel. The reverse side of the cover is nifty, sporting a shot of Lafiel clad in white and Jinto in normal land-dweller clothing. The "Newsletter of the Stars" is continued on this disc, with the main topic being the battles in space and on the ground. The other extra on the disc is the ever-present production sketches.

It's difficult to tell what will happen from this point on. There are only three episodes left in the series, and there are quite a few ideas floating around. One thing is certain though: Morioka knows how to tell a good story. I expect a great finish.

Video Quality: A
Audio Quality: A
Presentation: B+
Content: A
Overall: A