Others' Island (spoilers all books incl RWC)

[Farseer]

re teacups...yes, when Kennit droppped off Kyle etc to his childhood home, he promised his mother when he left that he would bring her back a set of teacups on his return, after he had noticed the worn condition her own were in. I think it is very likely that they could just as easily symbolise his mother and/or his relationship with her, Chrischa. I also liked Mother's inclusion in the storyline and, as a mother myself, I'd hope I'd have her courage should the need ever arise!

Thanks re your comments on iron. I wondered if this was the case (that it is used elsewhere through the fantasy genre at times, to ward off magic). I can't recall reading anything like that before but then I have not read as much fantasy as most other Hobb fans seem to have . I got the feeling that 'iron' took on a couple of meanings eg an iron collar was quite different to the toting of 'cold iron? The former could be specifically used to ward off magic however the latter I took to simply mean a firearm of some sort (not in RotE so much but generally...though I am only going on my limited view of that which is contained in Shaman's Crossing so far!)?

Not sure if you (or nessie!) have come across maulkin's original questioning but he wondered who fashioned the bars to contain SWR and how they obtained the iron etc...one earlier post in this thread and another in the Mythical Creatures thread. Any ideas?