We conducted a funeral two days later. My mates wanted to make it a public festival, but I refused. I wanted it to be a private one. I knew my mum would, too. As I was the only one of the royal line who survived, she would want me and those close to me to escort her to the river, where we would say our final goodbyes.

Only 5 people attended, which worked well for me. As her body disintegrated, my mates had to return to her place to get some of her belongings, which we laid in the coffin.

The ...