A few days ago, the Gifted Four had huddled around Verum’s crystal ball with solemn faces. They were waiting for news from the United Kingdom (UK). Earlier that day, Verum’s crystal ball had begun spinning round and round while making a low humming sound.
The news was about Queen Elizabeth II of the UK. Earlier that day, it was announced that the doctors had placed the Queen under medical supervision. This left the Mysticals very worried indeed. Many senior members of the British royal family had traveled to the Queen’s Balmoral estate in Scotland.
Now, the crystal ball spun once again and announced another piece of news. The Queen was no more. She bid goodbye to the world and her people on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96 years.
“This is the end of an era,” whispered Felix, “Elizabeth II was the UK’s longest reigning monarch. This means she was the Queen for 70 whole years!”
“Yeah. Did you know that she became the Queen quite unexpectedly?” said Orak, “You see, her uncle, Edward VIII, abdicated (gave up the throne) to marry Wallis Simpson. That’s how Elizabeth’s father became George VI ascended the throne. Lilibet, as she was called, became the heir to the throne at the age of 10 years.”
“When did she become the Queen?” asked Scorch.
“In 1952, her father King George VI became very ill. At that time, Princess Elizabeth was visiting Kenya, a country in Africa, on her father’s behalf. She was accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip,” said Verum, “On this official tour, she got the news of the King’s passing. She returned to the UK and ascended to the throne. She was crowned as Queen at Westminster Abbey on 2 June 1953. The coronation was broadcasted on television to over 20 million people.”
“During her regime, many countries from around the world became independent from the British Empire. Over the years, some of these countries joined the Commonwealth of Nations, a political association of 56 member states,” added Felix.
“She also had weekly audiences with the prime minister throughout her reign,” said Orak, “Fifteen prime ministers served under her.”
“Who will become the next monarch after Elizabeth II?” said Scorch.
“Her son, King Charles III will take over. His wife, Camilla, will become the Queen Consort,” answered Verum, “Meanwhile, condolences for the Queen started pouring in from all around the world. A state funeral will take place in about two weeks.”
“She led a life of commitment to her nation. A life of sacrifice, elegance, and dignity. Her dedication to her duty and responsibility stand apart,” said Scorch.
“May she rest in peace,” said Felix, Scorch, and Orak.