Both Kensington and Buckingham Palaces have been approached for comment by *The Post.*

King Charles, too, has had to slow down his typically packed schedule due to his cancer diagnosis, allowing his eldest son to step in and represent the monarchy at various events. One notable example was William’s recent attendance at the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, where he appeared without his father.

“There’s a feeling of calm before the storm,” Bedell Smith remarked. “They’re on the brink of stepping into the most demanding roles of their lives. Kate’s health has been the priority, of course, but this time has also given everyone a chance to pause and reassess what truly matters.”

Last month, insiders revealed that royal staff began drafting detailed succession plans after King Charles’ coronation in May 2023. These plans reportedly gained urgency earlier this year due to concerns over the king’s health.

“This is something the institution is always aware of,” a palace source explained regarding the succession planning. “It’s about being prepared as an organization.”

“They know their circumstances will change eventually. Given what the future holds, it makes sense to ease back into royal duties gradually and focus on family priorities.”

In light of these developments, sources suggested last month that the dynamic between William and his ailing father has “shifted” following what was described as a previous “power struggle.”