With the introduction of the Akashi Lady, the novel continues to expand its exploration of status and how different life situations influence this. Here, the novel reiterates the idea that one can only be properly upper class if one lives in the city, where a majority of court life takes place. Notably, the governor isn't entirely wrong about why Genji is in exile: he's still paying the price for his mother's popularity, and Kokiden's fears are certainly rooted in an understanding that many would rather have Genji as governor.