...they thirsted not when he led them through the deserts...

[wizard509]

I love it.
The only thing I might suggest is the shadow be lightened slightly so the staff and foot are not lost, the desert floor show more in the shadow, and the pebbles in the shadow darker thus making the shadow appear transparent. Really more contrast between the cast shadow and the desert texture.
I have tried to alter your image only to illustrate what I mean. I hope you don't mind. What I did isn't perfect by any means. Being a former illustrator I am awed by your work. It's the little details that make all the difference in the end. Of course if you want the foot and staff lost in the shadow that's fine too. My point is the shadow needs to feel transparent without being too light or too dark.
I'm glad to see you did not put the heavy outline on the outside edge of the shadow.
Hope I'm not being too critical. I'm just trying to help.
Keep up the good work.
Larry