The Sandman

Brief Lives

The story revolves around Delirium's wish to reconcile with her brother Destruction. To this end, she first contacts Desire and Despair, each of whom refuses to accompany her on her quest; and finally persuades Dream. According to her list, they consult people who knew Destruction; but each time these people are destroyed (such as a 15,000-year-old lawyer killed by part of a building falling on him), or driven into hiding (such as the Alder Man, who changes himself into a bear and has his shadow assume his appearance).