i cannot describe the depths of my personal sorrow and the suffering of so many. as i continue to deepen my own understanding of slavery during the impact. >> he's gone somewhere already. he has acknowledged the hurt people feel. what's wanted, is an apology. >> reporter: in early april the king agreed to open the royal archives to researchers looking into the monarchy's ties to slavery. what people are asking the royal family now is simply what you stand for? what are you going to do with all your money and privilege and visibility? his former communications secretary christina says that king has been preparing for those questions for decades. >> he sees himself in a position where he can be the great mediator, the introductory, the person who brings something to the floor.