2. Both Nym and Breck have physical disabilities, but Nym doesn’t view them as deficiencies like she does the Uathúil powers. In fact, when Nym finds out Breck and Colin are twins—supposedly “one gifted, one cursed”—she responds by asking which is cursed and which is gifted. What do you think about her question? What types of abilities does society often deem “gifted”? Cursed? What unique qualities did Breck’s blindness and Colin’s powers add to their world?
3. In Eogan’s experience with training warriors, he discovered that focusing on the physical while neglecting the ethical (what’s right or wrong) resulted in an “end justifies the means” approach for many of the Uathúils. What do you think about that concept in relation to war and to our world today? Are there ever situations where not having a conscience seems necessary?
4. Nym sees her Elemental ability as a curse rather than a unique gift. What aspects of yourself or your environment do you view as “cursed” or negative? How might those aspects actually become a benefit or gift?
5. In the Valley of Origin, Eogan challenges Nym, suggesting that her inability to embrace the potential of her power is because she’s afraid to accept and believe better of herself. How about you? What things could you overcome or accomplish if you believed more in yourself?
6. Just before they reach the Keep, Nym asks Colin, “What makes a person evil? If you believe a person was born to bring help, then were others born to bring destruction?” What are your thoughts on this? Are people born evil? Are they born good? Do you agree or disagree with Colin’s response? Why?
7. Nym was torn between wanting to use her abilities to protect her people and knowing that in doing so she would harm the men in Bron’s army. King Sedric encountered a similar dilemma when faced with Odion’s treaty—signing it would protect some while requiring the sacrifice of others. How did the ultimate results of Sedric and Nym’s choices affect Faelen and Bron? Were they right in their decisions?
8. Nym has a tough attitude toward the world but privately struggles with self-loathing, fear, and self-harm. Have you, or a friend, ever struggled with any of these feelings or behaviors? If so, have you talked to a safe person about it? Support and resources are available to you, including To Write Love on Her Arms (http://www.TWLOHA.com). Please reach out. I promise you are not alone.