1. Tal's society in the Towers is based on the colors of the rainbow, increasing in power and status from red to orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and, finally, violet. How are the colors in a rainbow formed, and what are the possible reasons for choosing red to be the weakest color and violet the most powerful?

2. Why is the number "7" important in Tal's society? In what ways does it occur and why? (Seven towers, seven levels in each tower, seven colors, seven deluminents.) See if you can locate ancient associations of value with the number 7.

3. Tal is resentful of authority for treating him poorly, yet he considers himself superior to the Reds, the Underfolk, and the Icecarls. Discuss Tal's snobbery and how it hurts his quest.

4. Milla is intolerant of outsiders, but she will need to learn tolerance to achieve her dream of being...