A smile began to form on Lymond's face, spreading across his pale features and framing his still, unmoving mouth. This subtle change in his expression suggests a shift in his emotional state, perhaps indicating confidence, relief, or a concealed thought. The description highlights the contrast between his calm appearance and the developing smile, emphasizing his composed demeanor in a tense moment.

"A smile, bracketing his still mouth, spread like bane over Lymond's pale face." This vivid imagery captures a moment of complex emotion, where the smile acts as both a visual cue and a symbolic element. It hints at underlying motives or feelings that are difficult to read, adding depth to Lymond's character and the narrative's tension.