The meaning is up to you. The book has many interpretations, so don't take anything in there for granted

Thank you! The environment and city are real, it's just the story that is fiction but the customs and traditions and tribes are also real.

...you'll find out later that it wasn't about consent. Brendan is a favorite of most of the teachers in Bradwield High, and so Mr. Sparrow wanted to say a word to the principal on his behalf.