The dynamics of the Royal Family are changing, and heads of the family have reportedly begun meeting to discuss future plans for the makeup of the next generation of royals.

According to the New York Post, King Charles reportedly held a meeting with his daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, regarding Prince William's ascension to the throne. 

The meeting came in the wake of Prince Charles' health scare with cancer over the past year, and the Royal Family prefers to have plans in place for painless, smooth transitions of power whenever possible.

Middleton has also struggled with cancer issues, having shocked the nation earlier this year with an announcement regarding her health status. It was noted that the two have bonded over their shared health concerns.

What's going on?

The Post indicated that a source close to the Royal Family said, "She and Charles had a private meeting about her stepping up sooner than expected," referring to Middleton.

The source added, "As you’d imagine, the relationship between the two of them is incredibly close. They’ve been a huge source of comfort to each other through their side-by-side battles against cancer."

"It’s also why Charles has taken great pains to give her plenty of space to recover for the inevitable moment that he and Camilla pass on the baton."

King Charles holds private meeting with Kate Middleton as palace begins ascension plans: reporthttps://t.co/kDItCOKC0Z

— Daughter of the King, (Worthy) Bronwyn 🇮🇱 (@bronwyn1140) December 26, 2024

The source confirmed the aforementioned preference of the palace, in that it wants to ensure the smoothest possible transition of power and not be caught off guard.

Royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith confirmed that the Prince and Princess of Wales have already taken steps to begin their preparation for their eventual ascension to the throne.

"More responsibilities"

Smith noted that the king cannot realistically do as much with his current health status, which has enabled Prince Williams and Middleton to step up.

"Although the king is carrying out his duties with typical determination, he has had to accept limitations during his cancer treatment," Smith reportedly told People.

"As a result William has been taking on more responsibilities, and he and Kate have been preparing for their future roles sooner than they would have expected."

Only time will tell when the transition happens, but clearly, the palace is prepared.