Thanks for the thoughtful response! Originally I wasn't sure if it was ok to have a critique label on something that not technically a "finished product" but I wanted to get a little feedback on how her personality and different looks turned out. I'm glad that everything I tried to put into this was carried across.

Even though her blind cousin is the titled hero, Emily would really resent being called her "sidekick," because she's just as important to the story.

(Out of curiosity, do you associate with deaf characters because you're deaf? If so, I could use some help in developing Emily, if you're interested.)

Have you seen the short after the Frozen credits where he puts on the crown after limping back into the palace? That's what this is based on.

Simplicity doesn't mean less refining! Just because a design is simple doesn't mean any less thought was put into it.   Often simple character designs (like Claire's) require a lot more streamlining and boiling down the essential details that are there, because there's less to distract the eye.

It's in character for Jackson to have a more simple, no-nonsense outfit compared to Oscar, who was intentionally designed to look a little overboard with her shoujo princely-girl theme, and Olga's Helsing "pouch-overload" look.  Jackson is the most down-to-earth of her three companions, which is why her clothing choices reflect that. Her exterior is honest and composed, a stark contrast to all the bling and decoration and accessories of the others.  But even she can cut loose if she's pushed past her limit, as shown in this picture (and in her last battle scene) where her battle aura inflates her hair into a bushy afro.  It appears shorter normally, because it curls tightly.

Glad you like it! The smaller figure is not actually Dahlia being channeled, it's Dahlia as a child when she was being forced to endure spirit medium training despite having no spiritual power.

I also have a really great art school mentor who passed away recently, I feel for ya.
I think both our teachers would be proud to know we're doing so much artwork now, and taking it seriously.