Social Class and Servitude

A rigid class system dominates, with nobles, free retainers, and slaves (called 'servants'), where laws are manipulated to reduce people to bondage and social status dictates every interaction.

The division between the wealthy who escaped and the ignorant lower classes left behind is emphasized, along with the degraded status of the Bushmen.

A rigid caste system is described where nobles alone possess literacy, and the majority are reduced to slavery through a perverted legal system that punishes minor offenses with lifelong bondage.

Felix's skill with the bow is looked down upon by nobles who consider missile weapons beneath their station, highlighting rigid class distinctions.

The Aquila family, despite noble birth, are impoverished and powerless; Oliver's lack of command and Felix's secret plans highlight their constrained social position.