Character Sketchbook - Anko Xelkova, The Demon Baker
This collection explores a character I roleplayed in Dungeons & Dragons from 2017 to 2019. Anko Xelkova was a shy girl who ran her family's bakery in a Tiefling ghetto. She was tricked into a Warlock pact by her secret mentor at the magic academy, or so she thought! By the end of the game, she learned this mysterious figure was her biological father and it was her mother's pact with a fear demon that led her to manifest demon magicks when she came of age.
It was a joy to watch this character evolve from meek and fearful to someone who believed in herself and confidently led others to defend the innocent. She and her party would save the world from the chaos of a shattered goddess, uniting her dark and light halves to create unity once more (or so they thought). One day this campaign will continue and we shall see if this peace lasts!
Anko was not inspired by Jester of Critical Role and was created in July 2017 before the CR premiere in 2018.
The 1st sketch of Anko! Anko was not inspired by Jester of Critical Role & was created in JUL 2017 before the CR campaign 2 premiere the next year. I imagine she & Jester would get along though, esp if Anko kept her supplied in fresh-baked goods!
A chibi lineup of Anko's traveling companions. She & Chemmis ended up dating by the end of the campaign. Arietta ended up a good friend & the one who helped hook the awkwardly shy pair up.
After not making any solid decisions about what her horns looked like under her buns for a long time, I finally explored the possibilities in this sheet.
The smaller horns ended up feeling like a better fit for the shape of her hair.
Figuring out what her 'cinnamon roll' horns look like from a profile view.
Can't have horns without horn bling! I can see any of these designs being used for special occasions like festivals, weddings, etc.
More chibis sketches. Anko ended up being the caretaker of two sentient tomes whom she cared for dearly.
Combining all my horn exploration into a cute formal look for Anko!
A d20 arrangement including things Anko loves, magical books, baked goods, and her 'happy rolls' which never have correct smiles. Only her mom can get them right!
Inspired by Kiel Chenier's cool d20 arrangements.
Pencil sketch that was scanned and colored in Photoshop.
Final drawing of Anko Xelkova, the "Demon Baker". Usually a kind soul, seeing innocents slaughtered for science by a mad queen drove her to this dramatic moment of magic usage. Eldritch Blasts incoming!
Gesture sketches exploring different expressions and postures.
Experimenting with more horn variations.
Anko's dice and spell adventure journal.
Part of Anko's 6 Outfits challenge. See more here:
https://www.artstation.com/artwork/0n3oKY