Oath-swearing is an important aspect in the hierarchical system of the Kilrathi Empire. A Kilrathi is oathsworn to a group or a cause; specifically retainers and liegemen swear fealty to a Thrak'hra (clan Lord), and soldiers to a khantahr. Failure to serve the cause or individual one is sworn to (eg. refusal to follow orders), is considered oath-breaking and damages one's honor, which is more important than life.