What metaphors are used in Key of Valor by Nora Roberts?

The portrait is a metaphor for the mystery. The portrait, After the Spell, is the first item that connected the triad. Brad saw the portrait shortly before moving back to Pleasant Valley from New York. He was captivated by Kyna, whose counterpart is Zoe. A copy of that same portrait hangs in the castle at Warrior's Peak. The painting was created by Rowena.