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CHAPTER 82 : EASTER SERVICE 2023

DATE : 9th APRIL 2023

PLACE : ST GEORGE'S CHAPEL

The sun shone brightly over Windsor Castle as the Royal Family gathered for the traditional Easter Sunday service at St. George's Chapel. Spring was in full bloom, the castle gardens alive with daffodils and cherry blossoms. As the morning light filtered through the soft haze of a crisp April day, crowds lined the streets leading to the chapel, waving Union Jacks and murmuring with anticipation.

Princess Matilda, her parents, and her younger siblings—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—stepped out of the family car at the chapel's entrance. They were the picture of elegance, clad in a harmonious palette of spring colors. Matilda, now 12, wore a pastel blue coat with delicate floral embroidery at the cuffs and hem, her dark hair neatly tied back with a matching ribbon. Beside her, George looked sharp in a tailored navy suit, Charlotte dazzled in a lavender dress and white cardigan, and Louis charmed onlookers in a classic blazer and shorts.

"Hold still, Louis," Matilda whispered, crouching slightly to straighten her younger brother's collar. He wriggled but obliged, grinning cheekily. The exchange drew a warm laugh from Catherine, Princess of Wales, who stood beside them in a soft yellow coat dress, her signature composure exuding grace.

As they walked toward the chapel steps, Prince William took a moment to wave to the gathered crowds, his tall figure striking in a tailored navy suit. Catherine and the children followed suit, greeting well-wishers with warm smiles and waves.

From the sidelines, an older woman in a red scarf called out, "Happy Easter, Your Highnesses!"

"Happy Easter to you too," Matilda replied, her voice clear and genuine as she waved directly at the woman, earning cheers from the delighted crowd.

Inside the chapel, the air was filled with a hushed reverence, punctuated only by the faint notes of the organ as it played a prelude to the service. Sunlight streamed through the magnificent stained-glass windows, casting kaleidoscopic patterns across the ancient stone walls. The Royal Family proceeded to their seats, joined by Princess Beatrice and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, as well as other members of the extended family. The pews were a blend of regal tradition and familial warmth, the generations seated together in unity.

As the service began, the choir's voices soared, their harmonies echoing through the hallowed halls. Matilda, seated between her parents, followed along with the hymnbook, her clear voice blending seamlessly with the congregation's. George and Charlotte, seated just ahead of her, sang enthusiastically, while Louis, still young enough to fidget, whispered occasional questions to Matilda.

"Why do they sing so high?" he asked, his small face scrunched in curiosity.

Matilda leaned down slightly. "That's how choirs sound, Louis. It's to make the music feel special," she whispered back, her tone patient. William glanced at the exchange with a faint smile before turning his attention back to the service.

The sermon, delivered by the Dean of Windsor, touched on themes of renewal, unity, and the power of faith to guide through challenging times. It was a poignant message, especially in the wake of Queen Elizabeth II's passing the previous year. The legacy of the late monarch loomed large, yet her spirit seemed to imbue the occasion with an enduring sense of stability.

After the service, the family gathered in the chapel's cloister for a private reception with clergy and invited guests. The children were given space to mingle, and Matilda quickly found herself engaged in conversation with Reverend Amelia Hastings, a young vicar from Manchester.

"I'm so glad to see young people taking part in these traditions," Reverend Hastings said warmly. "Do you enjoy coming to Windsor for Easter?"

Matilda nodded. "I do. It's one of my favorite times of the year. Being here with my family and seeing everyone together makes it feel... peaceful."