Young Queen Mary's betrothal to the Dauphin of France is important to this story. Why is she betrothed to him? How does this engagement affect the Dauphin, France, Scotland, and other nations? How does this engagement and Mary's life guide the events in this story? What does this betrothal reveal about the power of the royal families at this time? Does this sort of power exist today? Explain.

Throughout this story, Lymond protects Queen Mary and finds those responsible for plotting her murder. Why is he chosen to protect her? Is he a good choice? Why or why not? How does he go about protecting her? How successful is he? Explain. Who else aids Lymond in protecting the queen? Why do these people help him? How important is their help to the queen's survival? Explain. Why is the protection of Mary so important? How...