The moment Michael mentioned the altar, Myles and the others did not show confusion or disbelief. Their expressions remained steady, almost indifferent, as if they had already encountered something similar before.
That lack of surprise did not go unnoticed. Michael's gaze sharpened slightly. The five others of his members inside the tent exchanged quick glances with silent confirmation passing between them.
These people were not hearing about an altar for the first time.
"You already know what it is," Michael said, studying Myles carefully.
"Yes," Myles replied without hesitation. There was no reason to pretend that he didn't know. That would only lower their perceived value.
"How?" Michael pressed. "You found one somewhere outside this zone?"
"We can't tell you about that," Myles answered firmly. His tone left no space for negotiation.
Michael sighed slowly. Disappointment flickered across his face, but he restrained it quickly.
