| CROWN II | 👑👑

CHAPTER 86 : TROOPING THE COLOUR 2023

DATE :  June 17, 2023

PLACE : Horse Guards Parade, London

It was a day unlike any other for Princess Matilda of Wales. The sun shone brightly over London on June 17, 2023, as thousands gathered to witness the grand spectacle of Trooping the Colour. This annual event, which marks the official birthday of the monarch, had always been a source of excitement, but this year was different. For the first time in her life, Princess Matilda was in the thick of it all—not only as a spectator but as a part of the royal family taking part in the majestic display.

The morning began early for the royal family. Princess Catherine, Prince William, and their four children—George, Charlotte, Louis, and Matilda—prepared to join the rest of the royal family for the event. While the whole family had been part of many Trooping the Colour celebrations before, this year, the presence of Princess Matilda, as the eldest daughter of the Prince and Princess of Wales, had brought an extra sense of anticipation. Matilda was poised to represent the next generation of royals, following in her mother's footsteps.

Matilda's excitement was palpable as she stood in front of her wardrobe, carefully inspecting her dress for the occasion. She had chosen a simple yet elegant white dress with light blue accents, paired with a delicate floral crown. Her blonde hair was swept into a tidy braid, and her soft smile revealed how much she adored the tradition. Matilda had always been fascinated by the pageantry of the event, but this year, she knew her role would be more significant.

"Are you ready, Matilda?" her mother, Catherine, asked as she adjusted her daughter's dress. Catherine's gentle voice was calm, as always, but there was a twinkle in her eye.

Matilda nodded eagerly, "I'm ready, Mama. It's going to be so much fun!"

The family made their way to the famous Horse Guards Parade, where the event would take place. The streets of London were lined with cheering crowds, all eager to witness the spectacle. As the family entered the royal carriage, the children's faces were filled with awe. For them, it was not just another day in the life of royalty. It was a grand celebration, a vibrant show of tradition and unity.

Princess Matilda sat quietly, her hand resting gently in her father's, Prince William's. She glanced up at him, her blue eyes sparkling. "Do you think I'll get to wave to everyone?" she asked with a childlike innocence that was still very much a part of her personality, despite her growing sense of responsibility.

Prince William chuckled softly. "Of course, darling. You'll wave to everyone, and they'll all wave back. It's your special day too."

The royal family arrived at Horse Guards Parade, where the ceremony was about to begin. Princess Matilda, still holding her father's hand, gazed at the sea of soldiers in their magnificent red uniforms and tall black hats. The bright blue and red banners fluttered in the wind, and the sound of trumpets filled the air, signaling the start of the parade.

The family climbed to the famous Buckingham Palace Balcony to join the rest of the royal family, a place that had seen countless royal occasions and celebrations. The view from the balcony was nothing short of breathtaking. Thousands of spectators waved their Union Jacks and cheered as the soldiers marched past, the horses galloping in time with the music.

Matilda stood next to her younger brother, Prince Louis, who could hardly contain his excitement. "Look, Matilda! There's the horse!" he shouted, pointing enthusiastically at a group of soldiers on horseback.

Matilda smiled and whispered, "It's amazing, isn't it?"

The iconic flypast, where military planes soared overhead in perfect formation, filled the sky with colors. It was a spectacular sight, and Matilda, along with her siblings, couldn't help but be in awe. Her attention was particularly drawn to the Red Arrows, whose red, white, and blue smoke trailed across the London skyline, marking the grandeur of the day.