First up, we have the great Deceiver herself, Khazmine Asteras. I was toying with this sketch as a possible cover for "The Lowlifes' Lair," but ultimately went with the current design that features Khazmine and her two younger brothers. 

This is shortly after Khazmine starts training with the Solanai, gaining the outcast improved ether control. She still has much to learn, but Khazmine is well on her way to becoming one of the best Deceivers in the history of Old Sarzonn.

Next up, we have some sketches of young Pavocinis Asteras. As the youngest sibling of the outcasts, he's only about seven years old when "Lowlifes" starts. 

Pavo is very open and friendly, with unguarded expressions, and transparent emotions. Whether he loves or despises someone, they're sure to know it.

Walking through life with a perpetual grin on his face is Lord Amias Vythorne, high cleric of the Grand Cathedral. Lord Vythorne always looks amiable, with a disarming smile and honey-sweet voice, but his closest aids know better than to take him at face value. Though he gives the appearance of ease and affability, Amias is anything but sincere. 

With his long curtains of golden hair and the finest spun silk for his clothing, Vythorne has all the hallmarks of nobility. His hands have never known work, his body never known toil; he is all things beauty and grace, and considers it a blessing when he deigns to speak to his lessers.

And finally, we have Jaycen Mevralls, trusty Lieutenant of the Dark Army. Jaycen is a skilled light magician of the Solanai order, whose job is to patrol and protect the citizens of Old Sarzonn. Tall and broad, Jaycen serves as the acting third in command at the Solanai Barracks, working directly under the relentless Major Barshaw and the legendary Colonel Glazebane. 

Jaycen is kind, friendly, and helpful off the battlefield, and a skilled hunter in a fight. Lieutenant Mevralls is the first to jump in when someone is in need, and the last man to give up, even when the odds are against him.

That's all for this first Sketch Gallery special! I'll be uploading these sketch galleries periodically throughout "Lowlifes'" run, and I'm eager to hear what you think of this batch. 

Leave your thoughts in the comments below; they're all greatly appreciated, and help me tailor these bonuses to what readers want to see most.

As always, many thanks, and happy reading!