A ripple ran through the crowd as Gauis' words took over their minds. Confusion could be seen on their faces, their devotion to god has faltered from a simple speech. Meanwhile, the general's face grew stern, and his hand was on his sword, ready to strike, but Pyranthos didn't flinch.
"The gods care about their sacrifices," the ascetic continued, his voice growing sharper. "They are selfish, hypocritical, and greedy beings. They take and take, and when the time comes for them to give, they do nothing. The people pray to them, offering their labor and blood, trying to gain some favor or blessing from the Gods, but what do they receive in return? Nothing. And when they don't do sacrifices, they will return and get punishment instead, with famines, droughts, lightning strikes, earthquakes, etc…"
