I performed a fist-and-palm salute and bowed deeply. I thought that was a sufficient show of respect, but it seemed it wasn't enough. Before I could even straighten up, the prefectural city rebuked my lack of manners in a cold voice.
"Kneel and bow respectfully."
Glancing sideways, I saw the prefectural city frowning, his expression troubled. As I hesitated, wondering if I really had to kneel, the noble guest raised his hand.
"That is enough. Have a seat."
The prefectural city quickly bowed his head to the noble guest.
"My apologies. I did not realize he was so unlearned. It is my fault."
"A free-spirited martial artist who is well-versed in etiquette would be more suspicious."
The noble guest lifted his teacup as if unconcerned. The prefectural city nodded at me, signaling with his eyes. I quietly sat in the chair across the table.
Knowing that I shouldn't make eye contact first, I let my gaze fall to the center of the table. In the suffocating atmosphere, the noble guest spoke.
"Look up."
I corrected my posture with the most respectful expression I could muster and met the noble guest's eyes. He was a middle-aged man with a kind face, who looked to be in his forties. He seemed like he had never held a sword in his life, yet there was no sense of weakness about him.