"So is this actually a cult thing?"
Sonata glanced around at the party, taking in their mixed reactions. Luna shot an accusatory glare at Lily, silently screaming, See? Look what you've done!
Leo let out a slow exhale, massaging his temples as if physically pushing away an oncoming headache.
"No, it's not a cult thing," he said, trying—and failing—to sound convincing.
"I have a skill that lets me bond with my party members, but… to use it to its full effect, I have to, uh… permanently bind it to you."
"Like bondage? Kinky~"
Nyx's smirk stretched wider, all mischief and amusement, while Luna visibly cringed.
"That really does sound like a cult thing, not gonna lie," Sonata added, tilting her head in genuine concern.
"Are there secret handshakes? Do I get a robe?"
Leo groaned, dragging a hand down his face.
"No, Nyx. Not like bondage. And Sonata, we are not a cult."
He took a steadying breath.
