Of all the women suggested as possible brides for Orien, the only one who interested him was Melisaune. Why didn't Orien marry her? How did Melisaune die?

Why has Orien fled his own country?

At the beginning of the narrative, does Orien believe he will be a good Earl? Why or Why not? Do you agree?

What are some of Orien's ideas to reform the Kingdom?

Is Orien more like his father or his grandfather, the Earl, in temperament?

What aspects of life in the Kingdom that Birle accepts does Orien reject?

Birle and Orien live in the same Kingdom, but in very different worlds. What are some surprising things each learns about the other's life?

How does Birle befriend Yul? How does Yul repay her kindnesses?

Why does Birle leave Yul behind? Does she keep her promise to return for him?

How is life...