Percival's entire demeanor changed in an instant.
The dark aura vanished from his shoulders, and the frantic expression melted away. A cold smile spread across his face.
He kept his eyes on Lukas pinned beneath his boot, bending at the waist in a formal bow.
"Thank you, Young Master Sol," Percival said, his voice smooth and clear.
Sol laughed, the sound echoing across the cavern as he walked forward. His red ponytail swayed over his dark cloak with every step.
"Your acting has improved, Percival," Sol said, shaking his head. "I was almost convinced myself."
Across the stone floor, Akira, Melody, and Karrakas shifted into a wider triangle.
Akira raised her flail, her green eyes tracking Sol's approach while keeping Percival in her peripheral vision.
Melody focused fully on Sol, her trust in Akira enough to know her back would be covered, while Karrakas kept his silver bow drawn, ready to snap an arrow in either direction.
Percival straightened from his bow, chuckling.
