Aferel

Aferel is a fictional entity appearing in the comic book series "The Sandman," created by Neil Gaiman. Aferel is a djinn, a type of supernatural being from Arabian folklore. In "The Sandman," Aferel is one of the many inhabitants of the Dreaming, the realm ruled by Dream of the Endless. Aferel's role in the story is relatively minor, primarily serving as an attendant or subordinate to Dream.

Aferel's appearance is not consistently described in the comics, but djinn are often depicted as beings of smoke or fire, capable of shapeshifting. Like other denizens of the Dreaming, Aferel is intrinsically linked to the realm of dreams and stories. Their existence and actions are influenced by the power and state of the Dreaming itself.

The character of Aferel, like many supporting figures in "The Sandman," contributes to the vast and intricate tapestry of Dream's domain. They represent the diverse nature of beings that populate this surreal landscape, highlighting the mythological and folkloric influences that permeate Gaiman's work. While not a central figure, Aferel serves to populate the Dreaming and emphasize the unique magical ecosystem that Dream presides over.