The Royals of Astrary

Before they were married, Clara and Theodore dancing together.

The appointment marks a fitting new chapter for the Duchess, whose lifelong career has been dedicated to ballet. Born Clara Louise Brown into a working-class family in Aldwynne, she trained at the Astrarian National Ballet School before rising to become a celebrated Principal Dancer with the Astrarian National Ballet. It was there she met HRH Prince Theodore, Duke of Windslar, whom she married in 1985.

The Duke and Duchess have two daughters, HRH Princess Elizabeth and HRH Princess Catherine, the latter continuing the family's distinguished connection to the stage as a Soloist with the Astrarian National Ballet.

The Duke and Duchess and their children in 2002.

After retiring from professional dance in 2010, the Duchess turned her attention to teaching, joining the faculty of the Royal Ballet while also establishing her own ballet school in Windenburg. There, she has become renowned for making high-quality ballet training accessible to children from every background, believing that talent—not circumstance—should determine opportunity.

The Duchess' last performance, pictured with her children Princess Elizabeth and Princess Catherine.

Since the Duke of Windslar retired from professional ballet in 2025 at the age of 70, bringing to a close one of the longest-performing careers in Astrarian ballet, the couple have undertaken an expanded programme of royal engagements from Windslar Castle while remaining devoted champions of the arts.

Announcing the appointment, the Board of the Astrarian Royal Ballet said the Duchess's "exceptional artistic experience, educational leadership and lifelong commitment to dance" made her the ideal person to guide the company during the interim period.

Following in her mother's footsteps Princess Catherine, is a soloist for the Astrarian Royal Ballet.

Speaking following the announcement, the Duchess reflected on her return to the institution she has devoted her life to.

"Ballet has given me more than I could ever have imagined. I've been fortunate enough to perform, to teach, and now to support the next generation in a different way. To be asked to serve as Interim Conservator is a tremendous honour, and I'll do everything I can while I'm here."

When asked whether she would consider accepting the role on a permanent basis, the Duchess smiled.

"I never say never, but Theodore and I had always hoped this would be the year we finally retired properly. After his retirement last year, we were looking forward to spending more time together as a family. We're also very excited to welcome our second grandchild in the coming months, so I think this chapter of life is about family as much as it is about ballet. If I can help the company through this transition, I'll be very happy."

The announcement has been warmly received throughout Astraria's cultural community, with many describing the appointment as a natural choice for a woman whose remarkable journey—from a working-class childhood in Aldwynne to the highest ranks of ballet and royal life—has inspired generations of dancers.

After another demanding year of constitutional duties, investitures, military engagements and overseas visits, Queen Anna and Prince Consort Geoffrey have quietly retreated to the Mediterranean coast of Dorada, Iberonne, for their annual summer holiday.

Less than two hours from Astrary by air, the picturesque coastal town offers the perfect balance of privacy and practicality, allowing the Sovereign to remain within easy reach of home should affairs of state require her immediate return.

Prince Geoffrey never fails to make Her Majesty smile.

While the Royal Household has declined to comment on the couple's accommodation, local residents believe the royal party may be staying at the private summer residence of the Queen's cousin, Amelia Huntington, and her husband, Jameson Huntington, whose family has owned a villa overlooking the Dorada coastline since the early 2000s.

The couple appear to be making the most of the quieter pace of life. Over recent days, the Queen and Prince Geoffrey have been spotted enjoying long walks along the shoreline, relaxed picnics beneath the Mediterranean sun and leisurely afternoons away from the demands of public life.

An unusually intimate moment by the Queen and Prince Consort.

One particularly affectionate moment, captured exclusively by the Windenburg Echo, shows the Prince Consort sharing a kiss with the Queen as the pair strolled along an otherwise deserted beach. Another photograph shows Geoffrey gently kissing his wife's hand, a small but telling reminder that after more than twenty-five years of marriage, the couple remain as devoted to one another as ever.

Queen Anna sits beneath the trees and watches Prince Geoffrey win a charity polo match.

From elegant garden parties to relaxed coastal escapes, Queen Anna has once again demonstrated why she remains Astrary's foremost royal style icon. This summer, she has embraced soft silhouettes, delicate pastel tones and timeless tailoring, effortlessly adapting her wardrobe for every occasion.

Whether strolling hand-in-hand with King Geoffrey on a beach holiday, enjoying Ladies' Day at the Astrarian Races, attending a charity polo match or hosting the annual Astrarian Families Garden Party, each appearance has showcased a different side of her signature style.

Known for mixing designer pieces with affordable high street favourites, while championing Astrarian designers, the Queen has become one of the nation's most influential dressers. Her elegant yet accessible approach proves that timeless style doesn't have to come with an extravagant price tag.

The occasion marked Princess Georgina's first official engagement since leaving hospital, and her first public appearance since the Palace announced last week that she and her husband, The Earl of Wexford, are expecting their first child. Looking relaxed and in excellent health, the Princess was warmly greeted by racegoers as she accompanied Her Majesty throughout the afternoon.

Joining the sisters were their cousins, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Catherine. Princess Elizabeth, now approaching her third trimester with her second child, looked elegant in a floral yellow maternity dress and matching hat, while Princess Catherine chose an emerald green floral dress for the occasion. Queen Anna completed the quartet in a delicate blush pink pinstriped ensemble, perfectly suited to the glorious summer weather.

The Royal Party arrived to applause and support from the crowds.

The four women spent much of the afternoon greeting racegoers before taking their places in the Royal Box, where they enjoyed several of the day's feature races and met jockeys, owners and representatives from the Astrarian Racing Trust. Queen Anna later presented the trophy following the feature race.

Inside the Royal Box, the cousins were seen chatting and laughing together, with Princess Catherine and Princess Elizabeth sharing a particularly animated conversation while awaiting the next race. Princess Georgina also appeared in excellent spirits throughout the afternoon as well-wishers welcomed her return to public life.

Princess Georgina and Princess Elizabeth observed the races from the royal box.

Noticeably absent from this year's gathering were several members of the Huntington family. Phoebe Huntington, daughter of Charlotte, Princess Royal, was unable to attend, as were Amelia Huntington, widow of the late Major Jameson Huntington II, and her daughter Zara Huntington, the Queen's goddaughter. Palace sources confirmed the family members were unable to attend owing to longstanding private commitments.

As the horses thundered down the final straight, the Queen and Princess Catherine joined spectators in applauding another memorable afternoon of racing, bringing to a close one of the highlights of Astrary's summer social season.

The respected art critic was seen arriving at Tokoshimo's prestigious Grand Imperial Hotel shortly before Ms Mori, who was carrying what appeared to be an overnight bag. Later that evening, the pair were photographed sharing drinks in the hotel's cocktail bar before dining together.

Ms Mori and Mr. Cuthbert-Cross seen at the bar before dining together. Ms Mori had changed into a short pink blazer dress for the evening.

The following morning, Ms Mori was pictured leaving the hotel carrying the same overnight bag she had arrived with the previous evening.

Ms Mori leaving the hotel alone the following morning.

A spokesperson for Ms Mori denied there was anything unusual about the meeting, telling The Daily Crown:

"Ms Mori is currently in Tokoshimo to finalise a partnership with the Grand Imperial Hotel, which has acquired several of her paintings and commissioned a new collection for its 2027 refurbishment. Mr Cuthbert-Cross joined Ms Mori for dinner in his professional capacity as an art critic. Their discussions were entirely work-related."

The latest photographs mark the second public sighting of the pair in less than a month, something that is certain to fuel further speculation.

Meanwhile, in Windenburg, Princess Elizabeth was photographed enjoying a quiet afternoon shopping with her younger sister, Princess Catherine, as she prepares for the birth of the couple's second child.

Princess Catherine and Princess Elizabeth spotted shopping at the market in Windenburg.

Earlier this month, the Office of Princess Elizabeth confirmed the Princess would remain in Windenburg until after the birth. When approached by The Daily Crown regarding the latest photographs of Edward and Ms Mori, the Office of Princess Elizabeth declined to comment.

The Earl carried the Countess' bag before handing it to her security.

Princess Georgina was discharged from hospital this afternoon and was greeted by well-wishers as she emerged from the Cameron Wing alongside her husband, Matthew, Earl of Wexford. Clearly delighted by the news they were finally able to share, the couple smiled warmly and waved to those gathered outside the hospital before returning home to Alspur Manor.

The Earl kept a protective arm around his wife as they left the hospital together. Despite what has clearly been a difficult week, the couple appeared relaxed, affectionate and very much in love, sharing smiles as they thanked well-wishers for their support.

The Earl and Countess left in their Range Rover along with their security.

In a statement, the Office of the Earl and Countess of Wexford confirmed that the couple are expecting their third child and that the Countess has now returned home to continue her recovery. On the advice of her medical team, Princess Georgina will reduce her public engagements over the coming weeks.

The Earl and Countess are already parents to Prince Robert and Princess Eugenie, who are said to be delighted by the news.

Established by the late Queen Adelaide, Families of Astrary has become one of the Royal Household's most cherished annual traditions, celebrating the often unseen sacrifices made by the families of those dedicated to public service.

Major Alanya Trimbl, her wife Jude and their son who presents Queen Anna with a small posy.

Among the invited guests were Major Alanya Trimble, of 22 Search and Rescue Squadron, accompanied by her wife and their young son, Daxton. Her Majesty was seen speaking warmly with the family, having previously honoured Major Trimble during the State Visit to Sahradia earlier this year. Young Daxton later presented the Queen with a small posy of summer flowers, prompting smiles from members of the Royal Family.

hroughout the afternoon, members of the Royal Family met military families, police officers, firefighters, paramedics, healthcare professionals, coastguard volunteers and representatives from charities supporting front-line workers.

Queen Anna and Geoffrey speak with serving members while The Duchess of Windslar talks to wives and partners.

Prince Geoffrey spent time speaking with veterans and serving members of the Armed Forces, while the Duke and Duchess of Windslar met representatives from healthcare charities and emergency service organisations. Princess Charlotte and Captain Jameson Huntington I were also seen chatting with families and children enjoying activities throughout the Palace gardens.

Princess Georgina, Countess of Wexford, was absent from the reception after recently postponing a number of engagements on medical advice. Palace officials said only that the Princess was resting and looked forward to returning to public duties in due course.

Cuthbert--Cross and Mori spend time schmoozing with food critic Oleksander Zelensky.

The Princess's husband, who has built a reputation as an independent art critic, was seen spending much of the evening alongside the celebrated contemporary artist before the pair quietly departed through a private exit. While no inappropriate behaviour is visible, the photographs have already fuelled speculation online.

The timing has raised eyebrows. Princess Elizabeth is currently remaining in Astrary during her pregnancy, caring for young Theodore while Edward continues his international arts engagements. Palace officials recently confirmed the Princess would not be travelling overseas for the foreseeable future.

One guest described the pair as "comfortable together."

"They weren't behaving romantically, but they certainly seemed very familiar."

Nothing scandalous? This looks far too cosy for our liking!

Friends of Edward insist there is "nothing remotely scandalous" about the evening, describing Akiko Mori as a respected figure within the international art world.

The Office of the Duke and Duchess of Windslar declined to comment on the photographs.

The Princess and her staff arrived in a black car but parked at the front?

The Princess appeared keen to avoid attention, arriving shortly before dusk via a side entrance accompanied by a single protection officer. However, several onlookers recognised the royal and discreetly captured photographs of her entering the building.

The images, later shared with the Windenburg Echo, appear to show a member of staff carrying an overnight bag into the maternity unit moments ahead of the Princess.

Whether the bag belonged to Princess Georgina herself remains unknown, but its presence has inevitably fuelled speculation.

Flashback June 1980, The Crown Prince and Princess (Chester and Adelaide) present Princess Georgina to the world.

The Cameron Wing occupies a special place in modern royal history. Queen Anna, Princess Georgina, Princess Elizabeth and Princess Catherine were all born at St Margaret's Hospital, while Princess Georgina herself welcomed both Prince Robert and Princess Eugenie there.

A family portrait: Crown Princess Adelaide cradles Princess Georgina while Crown Prince Chester holds the future Queen Anna.

At 45, the Countess of Wexford is already mother to two children, having given birth to her son at 35 and her daughter at 40. While another pregnancy would undoubtedly surprise royal watchers, it would not be entirely unprecedented.

One resident told the Echo:

"She was clearly trying to be discreet, but once people noticed where she was going and saw the overnight bag, everyone started asking questions."

Another said:

"St Margaret's is practically the royal family's maternity ward. If Georgina wanted privacy, she picked the worst place in Windenburg to visit."

Palace officials declined to comment when approached by the Echo.

Of course, there may be an entirely innocent explanation. The Princess may have been attending a routine appointment, visiting a friend, or supporting another family member.

For now, there is no confirmation of a royal baby.

PRINCESS ELIZABETH'S MODERN MATERNITY STYLE

As she prepares to welcome her second child, Princess Elizabeth of Windslar continues to impress with her elegant maternity style. Balancing royal duties and family life, she has embraced a wardrobe that combines comfort with timeless sophistication.

Known for her love of neutral tones, tailored blazers and flowing dresses, the Princess proves that maternity fashion can be both practical and polished. She is also a strong supporter of the Astrarian high street, often choosing affordable pieces alongside classic investment items.

Her approachable style has made her a favourite among expectant mothers, with many of her outfits quickly selling out after public appearances.

Royal cousins arrive at the park with nanny not too far behind!

The photographs have drawn inevitable comparisons with Princess Elizabeth.

Currently in her second trimester and visiting Astrary from her overseas home, the Princess was repeatedly photographed playing with her son Theodore, walking hand-in-hand with him through the park and joining in activities with the children.

What's on your phone your royal highness? Princess Elizabeth makes parenting look child's play!

One visitor told the Daily Crown:

"Elizabeth was everywhere. She was playing with Theodore, talking to the children and getting involved. Georgina mostly seemed content to sit back and watch."

Another remarked:

"You wouldn't have guessed Elizabeth was pregnant. She never stopped. The nanny seemed to spend more time with Georgina's children than Georgina did."

Princess Georgina has frequently found herself at the centre of controversy and has long divided public opinion. While supporters praise her independent nature and refusal to conform to royal expectations, critics argue the latest photographs reinforce a pattern of behaviour that has increasingly distanced her from the public.

The fact that the images were taken by ordinary visitors rather than released by palace officials has only fuelled discussion online.

Nanny Knight in her element while Princess Diva Scrolls...

"These weren't staged photographs," wrote one social media user. "This is what people actually saw."

Others were less forgiving.

"If a heavily pregnant Elizabeth can run around after a toddler all afternoon, why couldn't Georgina?" asked another.

The Palace declined to comment.

For Princess Elizabeth, the photographs have further cemented her reputation as one of the Royal Family's most relatable young mothers.

For Princess Georgina, they have become yet another reminder that the public is still watching.

The visit, which was entirely private and unconnected to official duties, saw Her Majesty and The Duke of Huxley, spend several hours meeting staff, attending presentations and speaking with fellow parents as part of the academy's end-of-year programme.

HM The Queen and the Duke walk around campus arm in arm.

Observers noted the relaxed atmosphere throughout the day, with the Queen and Prince Consort appearing keen to experience the event as parents rather than public figures. Arriving shortly before the first presentations began, the couple were seen walking through the academy grounds, greeting staff and chatting with families whose children also attend the prestigious school.

The event provided an opportunity for parents to view student work, meet teachers and learn more about the academy's activities during the past academic year.

Lord Bjorn Bjergsen, Earl of Norholm and his wife Clara, Countess of Norholm were in attendance with their daughter Lady Sofia.

Among those attending were Bjorn Bjergsen, Earl of Norholm, and his wife Clara, Countess of Norholm, whose daughter Lady Sofia is also a pupil at Foxbridge. The couple were among a number of parents who spent the afternoon attending exhibitions and student-led presentations.

Lunch with the Queen: Ms Patel Marsden joined the royal party for lunch in Prince Malcolm's House.

The Queen and Prince Consort later joined staff, governors and families for a luncheon reception hosted by the academy. During the event, Their Majesties spoke with several members of staff, including science teacher Ms Priti Patel-Marsden. Ms Patel-Marsden has taught at Foxbridge for a number of years and is married to Dr Kennedy Marsden, Chief Science Officer of the Astrarian Air Force.

Now in his final years at Foxbridge, Prince Malcolm has become an increasingly familiar figure within school life. Friends describe him as hardworking and well-liked, balancing academic studies with a range of extracurricular commitments.

A royal romance ahead? Prince Malcom and Lady Sofia have become quite the talk of Foxbridge Academy.

For much of the public, moments such as these offer a rare glimpse of the Royal Family in a more familiar setting. While Queen Anna's role as sovereign naturally attracts significant public attention, Saturday's event served as a reminder that, beyond matters of state and ceremony, she and Prince Geoffrey remain proud parents supporting their son through school life.

Mr. Cuthbert-Cross sitting with his wife Princess Elizabeth and their son Theodore.

But newly released family photographs appear carefully designed to silence the gossip.

Mr Cuthbert-Cross embraces his son Theodore.

In one image, Edward is seen affectionately embracing the couple’s son Theodore beside a palace fountain as Princess Elizabeth reaches toward them smiling warmly. Another shows the family posed together — though observers were quick to notice the toddler seated squarely between his parents.

“It's warm, but very controlled,” one royal insider told The Daily Crown. “The photographs show a happy family, but people will still talk about the distance between the couple.”

The pair married in 2018 and welcomed Theodore in Tokoshima in 2023, where they continue to live largely out of the royal spotlight.

The Duke and Duchess of Windslar are said to be “absolutely thrilled” by the news. Prince Theodore — younger son of the late Queen Katherine II and uncle to Queen Anna — has remained especially close to Princess Elizabeth despite her life overseas.