The News
**Kate and Sophie Pay Tribute to Queen in Emotional Ceremony**
Catherine, Princess of Wales, and Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, were visibly emotional as they gazed at the Queen's Imperial State Crown during a poignant service held at Westminster Hall.
The solemn event saw Her Majesty's coffin being transported from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Hall in a grand procession.
Walking behind the coffin were Prince William, Prince Harry, and King Charles III, while cannons fired in Hyde Park and Big Ben chimed every minute in a somber tribute.
The Royal Family, including members like Catherine and Sophie, gathered for a brief service led by the Archbishop of Canterbury and supported by the Dean of Westminster.
During the procession, Princess Diana paid homage to the Queen by wearing her diamond and pearl leaf brooch, a cherished piece featuring a trio of pearls at the center of a pave set leaf.
This sentimental brooch, previously worn by the Queen in 1999 in Seoul, South Korea, was passed on to Kate, who adorned it during a visit to Belgium.
Additionally, Kate wore a pair of pearl earrings once owned by Princess Diana, symbolizing mourning and respect.
The Queen's coffin will remain in state at Westminster Hall until Monday, with Prince William and Prince Harry participating in the procession later.
Thousands of onlookers lined the streets of London as the royal family marched alongside the coffin.
While Kate did not walk in the procession, she arrived at Westminster Palace by car, accompanied by the Duchess of Sussex and the Countess of Wessex in another vehicle.
King Charles III walked with his siblings, Princess Anne, Prince Andrew, and Prince Edward, followed by other members of the royal family.
At the service, Prince William and Prince Harry stood united with their wives, Kate and Meghan Markle, setting aside their differences to honor their grandmother.
The Sussexes stood behind Kate and William, marking their first public appearance together since their surprise visit to Windsor Castle.
The Archbishop of Canterbury led the royals in a prayer, emphasizing the unity and reverence shown towards the late monarch by the Church of England.
Sophie Wessex, known for her close relationship with the Queen, stood between Kate and Meghan during the service, displaying a strong emotional presence.
Married to Prince Edward, Sophie has been regarded as the Queen's favorite family member, further highlighting the deep bond between them.
Clad in all black attire, Sophie appeared contemplative and composed as she paid her respects at Westminster Hall, reflecting the collective grief felt by the royal family and the nation.