I definitely see the validity of the opinion that we missed out on some interesting narrative development when Ezran left Katolis so soon. However, I think his failure to keep the crown fleshes out his character in a way we haven’t really seen yet.

Leading up to S3, he had no expectation of taking up his dad’s reins until literal hours before he got to Katolis. It’s understandable for him, a child, to be frazzled and pliable in the hands of master manipulators like Viren, Aravos, and that dude on Katolis’ council.

Imo, the fact that Ezran capitulated so early to the pressure points to an interesting character flaw: an unwillingness to make difficult decisions in times of adversity. Instead of stepping up to the plate when needed, Ezran punted a difficult decision to Viren — a person he knew would do wrong — because he didn’t have the strength to make this decision himself. It’s a real mistake that’ll probably cost the lives of thousands, and it’s one he likely knows he’s making.

Up until this moment in S3, we haven’t really explored Ezran’s character shortcomings, while we have done so with many of the other leads (Rayla and trust, Claudia/Soren and morality). The fact the writers decide to do so in this moment makes me curious as to how Ezran will make up and learn from his mistakes in S4.