Suddenly, Volk's expression shifted, the heavy tension in the air snapping like a taut string breaking.
He stood tall, his lips curling into an unexpected smirk.
Then, to the surprise of all, he began to clap.
The sound was slow and deliberate at first, each clap echoing through the silent crowd like the toll of a great bell.
Clap.
Clap.
Clap.
The Orcs around him exchanged confused glances, unsure of what to make of this abrupt change in tone.
Even Kragath, battered and trembling, looked up with a mix of confusion and suspicion.
"Well said, Kragath," Volk began, his deep voice breaking the uneasy silence. He continued clapping, the sound now quicker, sharper. "You know what? I agree with you."
Kragath blinked, his jaw slack. "W-what…?"
"Yes." Volk nodded, his smirk widening. "You deserve credit. All of it. Without your sacrifice—your willingness to become the lapdog of humans—none of this would have been possible."
