Practicing sketching/lining physical depictions of relationships. Balthazar and Mirian are childhood sweethearts and best friends, so naturally they’re very physically comfortable with each other.
More physical relationship practice! These two haven’t met yet, but they quickly become close friends and allies, eventually reaching a point of queerplatonic committed relationship status (as they’re both ace and relatively disinterested in sex/romance). Providing necessary support is one of the pillars of their relationship.
Another romantic relationship, but this one is different from Balthazar and Mirian’s in that for at least one member, this isn’t their first relationship, and it’s been relatively less stable for many reasons. They’re physically close, but physical intimacy still acts as primarily a reassurance/security blanket.
In the earliest drafts of this story, these two were in a relationship (long before Ashe was redesigned as a child). Now, they’re pretty much just conspiratorial best friends/heterosexual life partners (even though Lilia’s bi and Ashe is ace). Their physical interactions should always have a sense of playfulness to them, but also equality of status - Lilia doesn’t treat Ashe as a child, etc.
In all honesty, this was mostly a joke doodle, but it does also help show their relationship. They’re also in a queerplatonic relationship, but one built much more on camaraderie and shenanigans. Neither of them have dark serious backstories, so they’re in the story partially to provide a bit of lighthearted good cheer. (Also, they both absolutely adore each other).
Sketched some casual field-clothes for the Aullkee kids, since they’re not going to wear their school-clothes while they’re working on the farm. These outfits are lighter, simpler, and a bit more loose/comfy - see Balthazar’s lack of sleeves and Mirian’s simplified tunic. Alex still probably has to wear a scarf because she burns so easily, but I really like drawing her hair.