Self-Doubt

Self-doubt is seen as a theme throughout the story. Ander Elessedil is the younger son of the king and immediately it becomes clear Ander continually compares himself to both his father and his older brother. It is not that Ander does not think that he has no good qualities. When Arion leaves the city to go to a neighboring kingdom, Ander thinks to himself about how much better he is than Arion at understanding the problems and concerns of others. Despite what faith Ander has in himself, he will be very unsure about taking on the role of a king when his father is hurt and his brother is killed.

Amberle also has doubts about herself. Being near the Ellcrys and having constant conversations with the sentient being scared her. She feels certain it should have been such a large honor to be in the service of the...