Aurelian Palace Guard # 3 (illustrated by Max Rugers)

Cluracan is sent to Aurelia to prevent an alliance between the folk of the plain cities.

When arriving at the palace, he is greeted as an envoy and is offered food and a room in the palace.

There is a guard assigned to “protect” Cluracan, who stands outside his door. Cluracan wonders if the guard is to protect him or prevent him from leaving.

This Aurelian Palace Guard appears in Sandman # 52, on page 10.

I really like this portrait from Max. In the published comic we get a good sense of this character, but Max takes it to a new level with the detailed line work on his face. This definitely gives us more insight into the character. He now seems a more hardened and like someone who can handle themselves in a fight. I really appreciate the details that Max adds to these portraits. He really brings these characters to life.