The room was silent. Dim light from a single bulb swung overhead, casting shadows that danced across the cracked walls.
Max sat still in his chair, one leg crossed over the other, his armored fingers tapping against the table. Across from him, the elder sat hunched—round, bearded, and sweating through his patched robes. His eyes flicked between Max and the door, never holding contact for long.
Max leaned forward, voice cold.
"Elder. I won't ask again. Where's the meteor?"
The man licked his lips, forcing a smile that didn't reach his eyes.
"I… I told you already. I haven't seen any strange rock. I don't know what you're talking about."
Max didn't blink. He stared at the elder like he was looking through him.
"Funny. Because half the settlement swears they saw you dragging one into your storehouse."
