Morla, the old one

Of course inspired by Michael Ende's the Neverending Story - a Book that always excited me with both its colorful characters and painterly worlds.
Have you read the book or watched the movie? If yes, what are the parts that stuck with you most? Which Characters did you love or hate? What, after probably many years, do you still remember?

I'm planning to paint many more pieces from the world of Fantastica (Yggramul, Perelin and Falkor are probably next) and i would really appreciate your input 

Thank you and have a happy and creative new year!