Please Divorce Me, My Emperor

CHAPTER 17

The morning sun cast a warm, golden radiance across the Sun Palace, illuminating the courtyard where winter's snow had finally melted into lush green grass. The dark, stifling tension that had hovered over Solaria for years was gone, replaced by a quiet, vibrant peace.

Aurelia stood on the terrace of her solar, leaning against the polished stone balustrade. She wore a light emerald gown, her hair falling in soft, loose waves over her shoulders. Beside her stood Kaelen, his dark velvet coat unbuttoned at the collar, a look of serene contentment resting on his sharp, handsome features.

"You look far too relaxed for a man who has to address the full assembly in an hour," Aurelia teased gently, taking a sip from her teacup.

Kaelen chuckled softly, wrapping an arm around her waist and pulling her against his side. "The assembly holds no terror for me anymore, Aurelia. The traitors are gone, the provinces are thriving, and my Empress is standing right where she belongs."

He leaned down, burying his face in the crook of her neck, sending a delicious shiver down her spine.

"Kaelen," she gasped softly, laughing as his lips trailed along her jawline. "The guards are watching."

"Let them watch," Kaelen murmured against her skin. "Let the entire empire see that the Emperor belongs completely to his wife."

Aurelia turned in his arms, resting her hands on his broad chest. "We have a lot of work to do today. The trade envoys from the Southern Isles have arrived, and I intend to secure a twenty percent reduction in spice tariffs."

"I have no doubt you will dismantle their negotiations before noon," Kaelen smiled, his violet eyes filled with deep, unwavering devotion. "And after that?"

"After that," Aurelia whispered, tilting her head up, "I am holding you to your promise of taking me to that villa by the sea."

Kaelen’s smile softened into something breathtakingly tender. "Consider it done, my love."

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While their imperial wedding three years prior had been a cold, transactional ceremony dictated by political necessity, Kaelen insisted on a new celebration—the Renewal of the Sunken Vows.

The Grand Cathedral of Solaria was filled to capacity with nobles, foreign dignitaries, and common citizens alike. Thousands of white lilies and golden plum blossoms blanketed the altar, filling the air with a sweet, delicate fragrance.

Aurelia walked down the long, mirrored aisle, dressed in a breathtaking gown of spun silver and gold thread that trailed behind her like a starlit path. She carried no crown, only a wreath of wild white roses.

At the altar stood Kaelen. He did not wear his imperial armor or the severe black formal attire of state. He wore a simple white tunic trimmed with gold dragon embroidery, his gaze locked onto her with an intensity that made the rest of the crowded cathedral melt away.

When she reached the steps, Kaelen stepped down to meet her, taking both of her hands in his.

"Three years ago, I gave you a ring out of duty," Kaelen spoke, his deep voice carrying clearly through the silent cathedral. "Today, I am giving you my life out of love. Aurelia, you entered my world as an enemy, became my ally, proved to be my equal, and transformed into my entire heart. I vow to stand as your shield, your husband, and your partner for as long as the sun rises."

Tears glistened in Aurelia's eyes as she looked up into his face.

"Three years ago, I swore to break free from your palace," Aurelia replied softly, her voice filled with emotion. "Today, I swear to build our world together. Kaelen, you gave me purpose when I sought only survival, and you taught me that true strength lies in trusting another. My heart is yours, today, tomorrow, and forever."

Kaelen pulled her close, lifting her face to his, and kissed her deeply before the entire realm. The cathedral erupted into deafening cheers, church bells chimed across the capital, and cannons roared in joyous salute to the real union of Suncrest.