Could this also double as a metaphor for how comrades can be 'taken down' here at Steemit?

Yes, it can be interpreted as a general metaphor for the complacency that people show in letting a comrade down against a "bigger" cause. The "bigger" cause can be survival or loyalty to a cause, in this case, loyalty to the "queen" (they call her something else; you'll see if/when I post more about her, probably soon).

I'll try to take your suggestion. I had something written somewhere about her. She has a biiig backstory and some fun scenes. Thanks for the suggestion. I hadn't thought of posting more about her soonish. I've actually been delaying the next post for lack of ideas that I liked. I need to write more!