Page 6

The man reveals who he is and gives Madhuri the key to her destiny. The smoke he blows on becomes the trees in the bottom right.

Page 5

The scent envelopes her and tantalizs her senses. On a side note, this is my favorite incense as well! It is called dragon's blood because when you burn it in its pure form (not in a stick) as the sap heats up it starts to beat like a small red heart. This is something I have noticed about people, it is easier to ignore then try to understand. The ones who have n place in society are forced to notice everything - and this is when opportunities present themselves.

Page 4

In an instant a man seems to materialize out of nowhere. The background design is my own and the mysterious man is based on clothes one would wear to the renaissance faire. If you notice, the smoke draws her in as it keeps others out or away.

Page 3

Almost in desperation, she makes a wish.

Page 2

Page 2 depicts the frustration and sadness one can feel when surrounded my hate and discrimination. She tries to simply hide her horns and be normal, but no one will let her alone.

Page 1

Page 1 opens to reveal the way she is treated by her hometown, people tease and abuse her. It is such common practice that even children take part.

Synopsis

The Masquerade (which is the working title) is a manga that I hope many people can sympathize with. Madhuri is a young woman living in a town that hates her. Because of a birth defect she is shunned, teased, and hated by everyone. One day she comes upon a well and wishes for a guardian angel who could show her happiness. Immediately after she drops in a coin she smells it. I lovely scent that guides her to her angel, who manifests himself as a blind peddler. Following his advice and yearning for a better life, Mudhuri ventures out into the woods at night to find her destiny.