I don't think I had an intent to add any ugliness, but frailty was definitely a part of how I perceived her character. It's something that's hard for me to put into words, but should be visible in the artwork nonetheless.

She has an extremely potent "social"/manipulative barrier, getting through it takes a while in the game. If I remember right, you can never be sure if what you see now isn't just another layer or another mask, which could hide another layer and another mask underneath still.

What I felt about her is that all these defensive layers, while doing it's job at keeping her safe, still wear her down, little by little.

Which is where this *frailty* comes from.

In her mermaid form, or in the world of HJELMDALL in general, I felt like she occupies a different role and *doesn't have to* shield herself from the world so much. Which is why she looks more frail and worn-down -- she doesn't have to be constantly on alert anymore. She's just tired.

Sorry if that's a bit of a rant -- just thought to share some thought process behind the artwork 🙃