A French magazine has published topless photos of the Duchess of Cambridge while the Royal Couple is on a private vacation. Is this the beginning of a life followed by negative press?

The Royal Couple was startled with the release of explicit photos showing the Duchess without her top on. While busy on their Asian tour stop in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, William and Kate are faced with such a media challenge that many are not sure how she will react to this humiliation.

A French magazine called "Closer," recently published private photos of Kate Middleton and Prince William sunbathing in a private estate in Provence, a region located in south eastern France. Other photos showed the Duchess walking around in her swimsuit and the pair putting lotion on each other.

The Royals believe Closer crossed a "red line," and should expect charges as soon as discussions are finalized with French lawyers.

"Their Royal Highnesses have been hugely saddened to learn that a French publication and a photographer have invaded their privacy in such a grotesque and totally unjustifiable manner." said a palace representative.

"Their Royal Highnesses had every expectation of privacy in the remote house. It is unthinkable that anyone should take such photographs, let alone publish them." the representative added.

Meanwhile, Closer Magazine's editor, Laurence Pieau does not seem to be apologetic about publishing such scandalous images of the Duchess.

"She's a topless princess. There have been others. It's really not new." quips Pieau in a statement.

View the slideshow to see images of Closer Magazine on newsstands and other photos of the Duke and Duchess in their Asian tour.

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