the secret laboratory within the hidden temple...

hiding your secret high tech laboratory underneath long forgotten temple structures deep within the jungles of borneo seems to be THE most perfectly logical thing to do - who would EVER think to look THERE?? - except HOPE, of course...
well, it's actually not that simple (is it ever?), but you're gonna have to stick around and eventually read the book to find out

it IS pretty much a 'james bond'ian setup, though, isn't it? secret villainous lair hidden in or under some exotic landmark? LOVE IT!!
"No, Mr. Bond. I expect you to die!"

the set design is also inspired by my favorite comic strip, 'terry and the pirates', which took place in numerous picturesque locations along the chinese coast

pencil over rough...

here is the next step: cleaned up the silhouette, put in 'real' arms and her 'bionic arm pads', put in detail on her leggings, boots and dress - and her hair

also put in the real sword - and i just noticed i need to move her left fist away from her body to achieve a better read in silhouette - but i can do that during the inking stage...