Ascent to the Celestial

A journey to restore the world's geothermal heat source. Possibly the most Chinese background I ever made, so I couldn't resist altering the sig a bit.

This may be the most intricate composition I've ever dared to execute. Although we were moving around elements in the picture until the end, the mountainous background was inspired by and completed within a single day in Baguio City.

 

Clockwise from top:
Ayn Lunais: The haunted paladin who's lost his way.
Rouke "Ro'" Silvestrae: A scoundrel with a hidden agenda.
Kanigher Delancy: A scholar who makes magic out of science.
Aiondes "Aio" Diridian: A priestess of the earth and trees in search of her divine purpose
Kara Glantree: The hardened mercenary & bounty hunter providing for her family.

Characters are © Michael Smith