The tale of two sides (the royal family and the Sussexes) one from and the other across the pond has taken a new twist with a statement released by the Buckingham Palace after Prince Harry and Megan Markle released their statement on January 8, 2020.

The latest statement from the Palace was along expected lines. The Daily Mail had bluntly spelt it out on the front page that the couple would not be able to hold on to their formal royal patronages if they were not working royals.

That window of opportunity that was still open at the end of March started closing as they moved ahead with their commercial plans.

The latest message has the Queen writing to them. The line in the message which speaks of the responsibilities and duties that have to be undertaken for a “life of public service” could sound superfluous to some but it is also underlines the ideology of what is expected from a working royal.

A final line saying that the family was saddened and that the couple remained “much loved” could indicate how deep this professional decision has affected the family.

The statement from Harry and Megan through their spokesperson seemed a little defiant as it stated: “We can all live a life of service. Service is universal.”

It is assumed that the line defined the service for the benefit of the public rather than an attempt from Harry to score points over his grandmother, the Queen.

The Sussexes had hoped to be a part of the family yet charter their own course but the Queen told them that it was “not possible.”

Harry chose freedom and this choice has resulted in him having to hand back his military appointments which is a blow.

More about this dramatic saga is expected to unfold when Harry and Megan are interviewed on Oprah. The Queen goes by the adage “never complain, never explain.”