What type of lives do Scholars lead compared to Tribesman and Mariners in the novel, An Ember in the Ashes?

Scholars are treated poorly by the Empire. They are not allowed to own property or attend schools, and the mildest transgression results in enslavement. No other group suffers such harshness. The Tribesmen are protected under a treaty that gives their people free movement, and the Mariners are protected by geography and the spices, meat, and iron they trade.