Prince William and Kate send clear message as Harry and Meghan Markle’s shock return looms

Days after Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's decision to return, Prince William and Princess Kate put up a united front at Balmoral church as members of the royal family gathered there.

Leading the royal arrivals, the future monarch drove the vehicle carrying his family at Crathie Kirk near Balmoral Castle.

With the guard of honor provided by Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland, King Charles and Queen Camilla were also seen attending the service.

Behind them were the Duke of Edinburgh and Lady Louise in a separate vehicle.

The Princess Royal and her husband, Sir Tim Laurence, also attended the service but arrived separately.

According to The Sun, many flocked outside the church to catch a single glimpse of the royals.

The gathering marked the royal family's annual summer stay at Balmoral.

However, this year's pending arrival of the Sussexes — after six years of leaving for the US — ostensibly overshadowed the gathering.

Though William and Kate have not yet broken their silence on the upcoming arrival of Meghan and Har, reports indicate they have been informed

It is unclear how long the couple will stay in Britain or whether the Duke of Sussex will take on any royal duties.