I really like Kylin! It sounds Chinese but English-trendy. Its backstory seems significant as well.
You could also go by Kai, I agree with that. It's used in multiple cultures and is used for boys and girls.
Kellyn is nice, but it sounds manlier than it does unisex. I just prefer Kelly.
Another option: Kyli/Kylie (like Kai-Li) is pretty.
Or you could by Kel. It still honors your Kelly, but is short and to the chase. Also, it loses any "Irish" feeling to it, if that makes you more comfortable, since Kel is an English nickname. But as someone already pointed out, a lot of people are using "white" names now. It shouldn't be seen as strange anymore.
Good luck with your name change, and happy writing!
Name These Characters 1 (over)
https://www.behindthename.com/bb/game/5316320
Name These Characters 2 (over)
https://www.behindthename.com/bb/game/5327763
Name These Characters 3 (over)
https://www.behindthename.com/bb/all/5332744This message was edited 3/16/2022, 9:34 AM