The day of the Imperial Coronation marked the ascension of King Lixuan Cheng to Emperor, an event celebrated across the lands. Whether the wishes and congratulations were genuine or not, no one dared slight the new superpower that now ruled half the continent.
On a temporary platform built for the occasion, Lanling stood in his regal attire. The silver embroidery and engravings stood out brilliantly against his dark blue robes. The white jade dragon tally and hairpin adorned him once more, while a plain silver mask covered half his face, making his red lips all the more striking.
He wasn't accustomed to exposing his face while wearing his princely symbols. Even though his portraits were widely circulated, he refused to unveil himself completely. He had only done so in Aetheris because, with Haruki by his side, he had felt invincible and stable.
None of his usual worries about his expression could dampen his confidence, as long as Haruki was at his side.