Before Lightning Strikes

I'd say that this picture truly knows where to hit it home with an adventuring trope. It fits as an unusual title as well. The girl's dress is a very interesting point as well. It is unlike the many other common fantasy adventure clothing for women, which are normally ugly, skimpy clothes meant to oversexualize women. Instead, I feel this drawing is actually a proper interprettation of a woman adventurer. I also like the shortened sword and small shield. Unlike the common bastard sword, this one is small and slightly more elegant in view. The shield is a nice, compact touch.
I also adore that sky, it is the gathering of clouds, suggesting a storm overhead. Perhaps it is some forshadowing of tragic events to come, or it may be the opening to the character's personality.
The environment is very desolate, and I think that might be a tad overused in many fantasy drawings, but it is always a very welcome addition.
The lighting you us here is very smooth, and finely laid out; similar to that of a watercolor painting. I especially love the lighting for the color of the blue dress.

Overall, it is a very dynamic, but still picture that truly appeals to the eyes of any artist. Though I feel it may be somewhat brought down by it's own trope. Still; it is a very good work.