What is unique about the relationship the Queen has with Averill? What are the positive and the negative aspects of having this kind of relationship? What is the most difficult issue they face and why?

Who is Hunts Alone? Where did he get his name from? What other names is he known by in this story? How does each persona differ from the other? Which name/life seems to suit him best and why?

How do the Queen and Princess Raisa differ? Which one will likely make for a better queen and why? Who are the people likely to support?

What does Raisa do that is unlike anything done by other royals? What motivates her to do this? Where does she get the information that prompts her to action? Who does she enlist for help and what does she ask of them?

Why does...