3. As McAllister sets up the planned meeting between himself and Sheng, what piece of information does McAllister share with Sheng that is intended to protect McAllister during the meeting?

4. What does McAllister reveal to Havilland just before the limo explodes on the news coverage?

5. At the end of Chapter 30, what "signal" does Conklin see that prompts him to warn Panov to get Marie out of their hiding place immediately?

Short Essay Questions

1. What does Marie find strange about Staples' behavior as she awaits Catherine's return?

2. Summarize McAllister's role in Webb's plan to confront Sheng.

3. Why does Conklin refuse to surrender Marie until the traitor is found?

4. What do Staples' actions in the Victoria Peak mansion suggest about her character?

5. How does Webb convince Marie that it must be him to go on the mission to confront Sheng?

6. What does Panov suggest to Marie and Webb before he leaves to go home and attend to patients?

7. How does Webb move forward with his plan to save Marie after escaping the trap set at the memorial hall?

8. Summarize the interaction between Nelson and Staples at their meeting at the opening of Chapter 17.

9. What is the significance of the meeting between Webb, all the men, and Marie at the opening of Chapter 33?

10. What steps did Lin take to uncover the traitor on his team?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Both internal and external conflicts drive this story as Webb seeks his independence from the people controlling him.

Part 1) Describe the internal and external conflicts Webb encounters in this novel.

Part 2) How does Webb attempt to save his independence in this novel?

Part 3) Do you think Webb will every truly be independent? Why or why not.

Essay Topic 2

Consider the quote, "Nothing endures but change" (Heraclitus). Discuss how this quote applies to this novel considering both the plot and the characters. Cite examples to support your reasoning.