The Warded Man WIP

Continuing with the character sketch of Arlen from Peter Brett's book, The Warded Man. Finished the sketch and now will continue in Photoshop, experimenting with brushes and layers. It's a little too dark but I can fix that later. Right now, I'm trying to create the mood of the piece and I want him emerging from the dark, showing that finally, he can confront the night and all that comes with the setting of the sun. I also wanted him fading into shadow to show the pull of the Core on Arlen's soul and what remains of his humanity. Those of you who have read the book will hopefully know what I'm referring to.
I enjoyed using vellum for the sketch. I was able to draw his face on one side and then turn it over to draw the tattoos. Gave them more depth, plus if I had to erase the wards, I didn't mess with the rendering of the face.