Why does Theo feel the need to prove himself to Justin? How does he go about doing it?

What does Justin want for Westmark?

What does King Constantine do that makes Duke Conrad say he has become a real king?

Why does Duke Conrad try to kill his own nephew?

What does Theo most want for himself and Mickle? Does he get it by the end of the book?

Why does Mickle fear Cabarrus so much?

Who was Thestral, and why was he called that?

What does Cabarrus think of himself? Of Mickle? Of Theo? How do the character's opinions of themselves differ from how other people view them?

A sense of duty is present in many of the characters. Is there a conflict between the different characters idea of what is right and wrong?

Does Pankratz's attempt to kill the king make him...