The rumbling came from above. In the darkness, the steel 'purgatory' shook. Dust fell in clumps.
"Time is running short. Follow me." Gaius walked forward. "There are many more things to show you."
But Charles remained in his spot. "Sir, I've seen enough."
Gaius looked back in confusion.
"Thank you for letting me see so many secrets and know so many things but I didn't come here for them." Charles clenched his fist and said quietly, "I came here for my mother."
Gaius was silent.
"I only want to know what her name was, where she came from… If you want me to beg you, I will. If you want me to kneel, I will. I just wish you will tell me about my mother." Charles lowered his head and pleaded to the man before him. He had no smile or any frivolous expressions. He used all the lowliness in his life to beg the man.
"Sir, that's all I want."