Jirni Vol. 3 Issue 3 (Comic Book Review)
By: RogueSymbiote
Ara takes to the skies with Kaspar and Tongo in search of her mother. Danger lurks even in the clouds. While confronting a new enemy, the evil wizard Torinthal begins the process of breaking Luna's will. Both mother and daughter must overcome insurmountable odds if they are to survive.
Story Arc
While traveling on her airship, Ara speaks with Kaspar about his exile from Allavon. Kaspar reveals that he does not remember the reason for banishment, but that he doesn't miss being there. He explains how the structures, lands, and even the d'jinns' very thoughts are connected. A sense of individuality is seemingly nonexistent in this so-called paradise. Ara recalls the day Torinthal arrived in Janna, stole her mother and broke her father's spirit.While Kaspar identifies shapes in the clouds, Ara realizes that what they are surrounded by are not clouds, but smoke. Just as she makes this realization, a massive dragon flies through the smoke with an army of winged warriors. The dragon bites the ship into pieces as Kaspar and Tongo lose their footing and plummet into the smoke. Ara makes her way onto the dragon and confronts the winged army head on. Her chances seem bleak, but her will is strong.Torinthal takes Luna to the fallen kingdom of Fordis. He explains how this city of ruins was once a majestic site to behold. Knowing Torinthal's desire to break her spirit, Luna questions his motivations for bringing her there. Torinthal reveals that he is responsible for the destruction of Fordis with Mitra's help. Angry citizens of Fordis begin to rise from the rubble and make their way towards Luna. The evil wizard knows that the people of Fordis want revenge for their loss and do not care what d'jinn pays for it as d'jinn, "are all demons to them." Torinthal commands Luna to stay as the citizens begin to beat her. He then commands Luna to kill them. She fights against the command, even as they stomp on her. With her body beginning to give way, her will is broken and succumbs to the wizard's command.
As Ara continues her fierce battle with the dragon warriors, she hears a familiar voice. Kaspar and Tongo are floating on a blue cloud next to the dragon. Kaspar states that he doesn't doubt her ability to defeat this army, but that it would be easier to join him and escape.
Comic Review
Jirni continues to be one of my favorite series to read! The writing is so well done. I thoroughly enjoyed the juxtaposition between Ara and Luna's circumstances. They are both strong female characters, but you know one of them has to break at some point. This issue broadened the understanding of Allavon and the deep connection the d'jinn have with one another. It's clear that Kaspar is hiding something, and I'm excited to find out what that is. Even though these issues are quick reads, there is a lot of information and storytelling going on. Every panel serves a purpose. The pacing is fantastic. I am always left wanting more which is what a series should do.I love this art style. There's a beauty about it that is undeniable. The inking and coloring really make these images pop off the page. There is so much action and movement that it feels more like watching a show than reading a comic. The character designs are stunning and unique. I can't say enough good things about Jirni. My only complaint is having to wait another month to read the next issue. If you're not reading Jirni, you're missing out! Follow the link right here to order your issues of Jirni today!Note: Aspen Comics provided us with a digital review copy in exchange for our honest review.