How does Norhala demonstrate both human and inhuman characteristics during her encounters with the protagonists?

Norhala exhibits human characteristics through her capacity for tenderness and concern, particularly towards Ruth. She shows a 'shielding intent, guardianship' towards Ruth, revealing a 'really human impulse'^[1]. Her serenity can be broken by human anger and hatred, and a 'shadow of kindness' and 'pity' can drift through her eyes^[1][1]. She also expresses fear, whispering, 'I am afraid!'^[1].

Conversely, Norhala possesses striking inhuman traits. Her skin is 'translucent as though a soft brilliancy dwelt within it,' and her hair is 'cloudy, METALLIC'^[1][1]. Her eyes are described as 'SOURCES of the cold white flames of far stars'^[1]. She commands the Metal Things and summons lightnings, viewing slaughter with 'eyes impersonal, cold, indifferent as the untroubled stars'^[1][1].