Describe what a fire lizard is and what it looks like. What values and services do the fire lizards provide to their owners? What method do the lizards use to communicate with their people?

What great talent does Piemur possess when the story first opens? What happens to that talent and why is this point crucial to the rest of the story as it plays out?

When Piemur first rides a large flying dragon, he is warned that it will seem very cold when they are in the between. Describe what the between is. What other ways and in what circumstances is "between" used by Piemur?

What is an "Impress" ceremony and under what circumstances does Piemur witness one? During this Impress, what is the involvement of the girl Mirrim?

While still a drummer apprentice, Piemur sustains a terrible injury. Describe and injury and...