Kai (Early Concepts) (Patreon)

Finally! It's time for another set of early concept drafts of my characters! This time, it's all about the playful protector of the forest, Kai!

I sure do have a thing for wolf girls, don't I? Silly me. :3c

Kai was actually conceptualized alongside Pearlie Brite, fairly early on. I wanted something to contrast with the high tech e-girl aesthetic of Pearlie, so Kai went in the other direction: a nature-loving, tree-hugging tomboy. Her initial aesthetic was supposed to be Native American (as seen below) but I got uncomfortable with the idea, and soon pivoted to something less culturally specific.

She eventually took on more of a general jungle girl vibe. Easily distracted but nimble - this was the kind of energy I decided was perfect for her.

Then, I got writer's block. (Again.)

She was too much of a blank slate, and I wasn't sure where to go with her at this point. What were her hobbies? What did she do for a living? What would her tribe be like? What surprises was she capable of?

These questions bothered me for many months afterward...until I looked back on a beloved childhood obsession of mine. A story about six elemental tribes, with six mechanical heroes who wore strange tribal masks of powers.

And then it all clicked into place.

Masks.

Masks are playful, full of character, and sometimes a little creepy - they were a great fit with Kai's personality as a goofy jungle girl. Different masks would also grant her different powers if the situation called for it.

With a few more adjustments to give her a more athletic build with mystical tattoos, her overall concept finally came together.

Hopefully we get to see some shenanigans involving Kai soon. Stay tuned!