Oh, I can't resist a good debate on the nature of government and its application. Marce, a monarchy is indeed, and without a doubt, an autocracy: the King's word is Law, without reservation. The Law, and hence the King's voice, demands that if a noble wishes, all must genuflect to them - Lord Garoth would be well within his rights, as a vassal to King Daefell, to demand punishment upon the head of any who disobey. There are no exceptions, there is no discussion, there is no appeal.
And, though I understand both Mystics and Rom chafe at the thought of bending neck to a lord, it is the price one pays for security and longevity. Enjoying the bounty a lord provides but refusing to show her deference as a lord speaks to the greatest of hypocrisy. DerWyrve spoke it true, one is bowing to show thanks and obligation to the kingdom for existing - it is a recognition that without lords and the king, the land falls.
Desamerre, bowing does not make you subservient or lesser, it shows you have the mind to respect those who safeguard you. You are not donning shackles, but applauding your protector.
Dramthin Hartsboon
Simple Keeper of the Tainted Grove