It's always like that. The broken masses, raised by single moms and daddy-issues out the ass. There had been a mandatory session with a shrink about ten years ago. She'd explained the how's and why's of it, and it would never matter. These kids grew up, raised by shitheads and continued to be pieces of shit through out their whole lives.

Amos is massive as he comes closer to the bars, but Homelander is stronger. Or, he will be. In just a few days, a week at the most, and he will be soaring the sky again, bringing the ultimate hope to this world. The pitying look falls slowly from Homelander's face, replaced by one of feral glee.

"You can start by kneeling, bud."

And like the flip of a switch, Homelander smiles softly at him, "I'm Homelander, and I am the best hope you'll ever have."