Milan shot Jolthar a warning look, clearly sensing where this was going. Andrion was watching with interest, curious how his friend would handle the provocation. Elmesona's hand had moved slightly closer to Jolthar's on the table, as if ready to provide support.
Jolthar smiled - a pleasant expression that didn't quite reach his eyes.
"You're right," he said calmly.
"I didn't bow. I didn't offer anything. That was intentional, not an oversight."
Korvus's eyes gleamed with vindication. "Then you admit to showing disrespect to Deity King? In his own temple, during a ceremony held in his honor?"
"I admit to not participating in a ritualized performance designed to extract wealth from attendees while reinforcing social hierarchies through public displays of devotion," Jolthar replied, his tone still pleasant but his words sharp.
"Whether that constitutes disrespect depends on your perspective."
