(IZARA POV)
The after party was a meet and greet. It was just as important as the crowning ceremony because here you will meet your friends and enemies. The ones that will help you rise and the ones who will find every single opportunity to stomp on you.
It was the real beginning of my reign.
Dressed in my after-ceremony gown, I stood between my parents as the line of nobles greeted me. Each bow and handshake came with a set of judgment, awe, or calculation.
The High Lord of South Ethis leaned in as he took my hand. “Crown Princess, you wear the crown with such grace. I hope your policies will be just as refined.”
Translation: You’re young, let’s see how long you last.
“I assure you, Lord Vareth,” I said smoothly, “my policies will be precise and unapologetic.”
His eyes flickered,
