1. What hints does Turner give to suggest that Gen is more than just an ordinary thief? How much do these hints reveal about Gen's true identity?

2. With the training he is receiving, Ambiades could potentially become the magus to the king of Sounis. Why does he risk this future by betraying Gen and his group to the Attolians? Are the short-term benefits he gains worth the long-term opportunities he gives up?

3. Gen is a thief, and the magus serves as an advisor to the king. Compare and contrast these two characters. In what ways are they similar or different?

4. As Gen and his companions depart from the city of Sounis, he calls out to Philonikes. Why does he find it important for someone to witness his freedom?

5. How does Gen begin to assert his independence during the journey with the magus to the underwater temple and their attempt to escape Attolia? At what moment does Gen take on the role of leader for the group?

6. Gen claims he does not believe in the old gods. Why, then, does he hesitate to take Hamiathes's Gift from Hephestia? After leaving the temple with the Gift, why does Gen feel that the gods are interested in him? How do they demonstrate their support?

7. When Gen and his companions try to escape from Attolia, they are captured by soldiers. Why does Pol push Ambiades off the cliff and then jump himself?

8. How are Eugenides, the Queen's Thief, and Eugenides, the god of thieves, similar? How do they differ?

9. Although the magus does not believe in the old gods, he narrates a creation myth during the journey to the underwater temple. Why does he do this? Why does Gen continue sharing the myths with the group?

10. Sophos mentions that "a country with two sets of gods is like a country with two kings." What does he mean by this?

11. Why is Gen willing to risk his life to steal the Gift for the queen of Eddis? Is it solely because he has inherited the title of Queen's Thief?

12. How do Gen's perspectives on the relationship between Sounis and Eddis evolve as a result of his discussions with the magus?