L5R Theme Deck - Deathmatch

This was some art done for a Crane Clan Theme Deck (that took 2nd place!) for the Kotei in Nuernberg, Germany. The theme deck was "Courtier Deathmatch." Reflecting the struggle between the Scorpion and Crane in the courts, the subject was lampooned just a bit.

Above, Doji Ayano and Bayushi Kurumi face off in a no-hold-barred fight to the DEATH! (Or so I am told.) Ayano's in for trouble, as Kurumi's style of Muai-Thai seduction may beat the purity and innocence of her heavy-gloved boxing style... but you know she's not giving up either!

This was a lot of fun to draw and color. Despite the fact that I am absolutely awful at feet (I still refuse to hide them behind rocks, fog, or piles of pouches, though), I still really like the way this one turned out. I'm especially happy with the color, which I think works nicely. I'm trying to get better at lighting, and while this one doesn't have it down quite right, I think I'm moving in the right direction.

Download for 1280x780 semi-wallpaper size.