Tal And Milla Character Analysis

The novel follows two very different adolescents, Tal and Milla, as they experience together several hardships, travels, and experiences. In the beginning of this novel, Tal is conceited, dependant on others, and regards himself with superiority that does not extend to any who have what the Chosen regard as a “natural shadow.” . His inability to comprehend anything other than what he has been taught by his elders leads to conflict when he stumbles across Milla and her fellow Icecarls. Their differing views and customs cause him to regard the unfamiliar people as savages and almost sub-human. The author remarks that , "With Tal, I knew he was rather naive, and little committed to his family, and that he had more courage than he knew.” Throughout the
The Icecarl Crones are regarding with extreme respect within their society. There are crones for each Icecarl clan, and they provide wisdom and council whilst acting as the religious and political leaders. As crones age, their eyes appear to become cloudier or give off an unnatural light. The Crones are aware of the Chosen, even though the Chosen believe that there is nothing beyond the castle. All of the Crones share their knowledge in a powerful mind link established by their ancestors at the beginning of time, and this bond proves a powerful boon when they are called to help Milla escape her dream prison in the Chosen’s Hall of Nightmares. Two very important characters are the sibling Storm Shepherds that are rescued from their curse in Aenir and become Milla and Tal’s Spiritshadow companions. Unlike “proper” Spiritshadows, the two are bound to the children but not forced to obey them. Although this may be viewed by some as unhelpful, this situation creates a unique bond between the creatures and the children that allow them to work not as servant and master but as