Monarchy. Dictatorship.
Practically the same thing with a different structure. In the end, those on the top of the food chain would enjoy power.
But the thing with monarchy was, it was an extended dictatorship passed down through family like an heirloom. With a thing they wore on their heads and the chair they sat on.
So yes, princes and princesses could do whatever they wanted. Especially those who were mandated by heaven.
It was unfair, of course. But who told them to try to stir drama in the first place?
The Academy was different. Everyone was treated more or less equally there. So a duke's child may as well stand tall in front of a prince.
The outside world was another story. Even if they were in rags, even if they arrived without a large entourage, and even if they were breaking rules, they were royalty. And by law, serving them was the first priority.
