Democracy no more

He doubted his words would do anything to quell the boy's hatred for him. He knew there was no changing that, no matter how hard he wished he could. Where had he gone wrong with Valkis? How had he made him so hateful? By saving his life? By giving him a home? It didn't make sense to the King. "And what would you propose I do when I find her? I still love her, but love isn't everything Valkis. You're a young man, you've still got a lot to learn." He doubted that would make Valkis like him any more, but it was something the russet son needed to hear. He didn't know everything, and wouldn't ever know everything. "Do what you need to do, son, but I don't believe it will do much good. If your mother doesn't wish to be here, we cannot - and we will not - force her to return." Last words were stern. Valkis could go and see her if he wanted, and Maverick and Kamala could go too, but he would not allow them to try to persuade their mother to return. Gerhardt knew she wouldn't, and didn't want anyone making things worse. "I'm sorry if I've failed you, Valkis. Believe me when I say I have done the best I possibly can. I wasn't prepared for children when you three arrived, and I've done all I know to do, but I fear it hasn't been enough. I'm sorry I couldn't save your parents, if I could have.. you know I would have done so. I know you resent me, and if there's something I can do to fix that please.. let me know." Tone was pleading, he wanted to make things better between he and Valkis, he wanted the boy to have everything he ever desired, but he knew it was a long shot.

"Speech"