The mournful music still played as those who had just emerged from the church watched the coffin draped in the Delarion National Flag slowly lowered into the prepared grave by the pallbearers.
The atmosphere was solemn and dignified, sorrowful and moving. Yet Queen Diana was nowhere to be seen beside the King at the front. Already six months pregnant, Queen Diana had been persuaded not to attend the ceremony. This was not due to superstition, but out of consideration for a pregnant woman's physical health and emotions. It was believed that a funeral might adversely affect both the Queen's health and the health of her child.
Aside from Miss Galina and His Majesty the King, everyone Shade knew from the Cavendish Family had also arrived. Leisha stood relatively near the front, directly behind Shade and Miss Galina. Angelina stood farther back with her three younger sisters: Her Royal Highness the Princess Alice, Her Royal Highness the Princess Elena, and Her Royal Highness the Princess Anastasia.
The ladies all wore black veils, while the men wore black formal suits with black top hats. Though snow was falling, no one showed impatience or irritation.
"Death is the end of life. Then what does the end of the world mean to us?"
Bored beyond measure, Shade let his thoughts wander, and then another voice sounded in his heart:
"Very bored, are you?"
It was Miss Galina's voice. Shade did not turn to look at her, instead asking in his heart as well:
"Was I making it that obvious?"
Even as he asked, he widened his eyes and put on a grief-stricken expression.
The witch beside him seemed to curl her lips slightly.
"I guessed. You probably have little interest in this sort of event. But he was my elder brother, so please bear