Sights and Sounds
The narrator describes Adaon riding alongside Taran with his "head high, an open smile on his face, he seemed to be drinking in the sights and sounds of the morning." This image portrays Adaon as a person fully engaged with and appreciative of his surroundings. Adaon with his head held high indicates confidence and a sense of purpose. It conveys a certain enthusiasm emphasizing Adaon's positive outlook on life. His open smile further enhances this imagery suggesting genuine joy and contentment in the present moment. In contrast to Adaon's joyful demeanor, Ellidyr is described as sullenly following behind King Morgant's troop. This contrast highlights Adaon's positive attitude and serves as a juxtaposition between two different approaches to life. Adaon finds fulfillment in the simple pleasures of nature while Ellidyr is more focused on external validation and glory.
Primal
The description “In their jackets of bristling skins they seemed wild beasts rather than men” creates a vivid image of Taran's companions. It evokes a sense of power, untamed energy, and a willingness to do whatever it takes to overcome their pursuers. The companions' running forms a wide arc across the slope highlighting their coordination as they navigate the treacherous terrain. The wordless cry they call out to each other adds to the wildness and intensity of the scene. It is described as echoing from the brooding crags of Dark Gate itself. This imagery creates a haunting atmosphere heightening the tension of their situation. The passage also depicts the physical toll of their rapid escape. The horses show signs of fatigue while Taran himself longs for rest. The description of Ellidyr's pale face and bleeding forehead indicates the physical wounds they have suffered during their flight.
Deadly Bog
The marshy landscape is depicted as a perilous obstacle course filled with deep pools and treacherous mire. Hence, the imagery of Taran's stallion laboring through the mire demonstrates the difficulty of their escape. Moreover, the pursuit of the Huntsmen adds to the intensity of the scene. The description of a Huntsman reaching out to clutch the stirrups of Lluagor enhances the imminent threat they face. This imagery creates a sense of urgency as they try to outrun their pursuers. The most vivid imagery comes when Taran spins his horse to the right leading the Huntsmen into the deadly bog. “The Huntsman in bearskin flung out his arms and scrabbled at the weeds, growling in rage; the last warrior trampled the sinking man, vainly seeking a foothold to escape the deadly bog.” The Huntsmen are depicted struggling and screaming as they sink into the mire.
Black Crochan
The narrator describes the Black Crochan—the sinister cauldron that Taran and his companions discover in the cottage. “It was squat and black, and half as tall as a man. Its ugly mouth gaped wide enough to hold a human body. The rim of the cauldron was crooked and battered, its sides dented and scarred; on its lips and on the curve of its belly lay dark brown flecks and stains which Taran knew were not rust. A long, thick handle was braced by a heavy bar; two heavy rings, like the links of a great chain, were set in either side.” The cauldron is portrayed as an iron object but it seems to have a malevolent essence. Furthermore, the reactions from Fflewddur and Eilonwy emphasize the gravity of the situation. Fflewddur's pale face and Eilonwy's hand covering her mouth show their deep unease and recognition of the cauldron's malevolence.
