Fireheart: A "Throne of Glass" Fanfiction

Chapter 1

Great Fall Day. A sorrowful, solemn day Aelin had dedicated within the first year of her reign. It was accepted instantly and unanimously, the first and one of only two acts that had.

It commemorated the day Terrasen, and much of Erilea, fell. People wore black on the day, and banners embroidered with the faces of Aelin's parents were hung up throughout the nation. Aelin now stared at one such banner, hung up above the doors to the throne room, as she sat in the rebuilt Terrasen Throne.

Because to her, and many others, it was also a day of death. The death day of her entire family, aside from Aedion, and most of her friends.

A smaller, similar throne was built beside it, for the Consort. Her mate, her love, her heart- Rowan. He watched her with soft eyes, knowing that even after 20 years, the wound was fresh.

But, even on this day, she had duties.

The monarchs and heirs of many major kingdoms were on their way to give their deepest condolences. They didn't do it every year, but the 20th Anniversary of Terrasen's fall seemed a big enough event to warrant it. King Dorian made the move first, followed quickly by High Queen Manon, Pirate King Rolfe, and King Kharis of Eyllwe. Nehemia's parents had passed away a few years ago. The Queen died first, and her husband followed two years later.

Other nations followed quick, others simply seemed to want to look good on the world stage. Plus, of course, Terrasen played a good role in many of their coffers. Aelin wasn't petty enough to enact embargos over it, but she let the unspoken threat loom.

She looked to where Ren stood, opposite of Rowan by her side. He was her new Top Advisor. Darrow had, unfortunately, died a year ago. She had gotten close with the man. Their first conversation was sour, but she respected him. Cared for him, even. He was a great mentor who was unafraid to speak his mind, even to the Queen of Two Nations. She liked that about him- he ketp her in check when others wouldn't dare.

Its why she chose Ren. He was similar to Darrow in that regard. Brutally honest, but only because he cares for Terrasen.

Fenrys had since returned from his trip to the East, bringing a few crates of book copies sent by the nation calling itself Polvria. The books contained the information she sought- giving power to the people while keeping enough to protect them. She had her advisors reading them and telling her what they learn, since she rarely found a break, and what few hours she did get were spent with Rowan and properly resting.

Evangeline, now her Royal Messenger, walked into the room and bowed before Aelin.

"How many times must I say you don't need to bow every damn time you're here? The point of having a royal messenger is speed, Eva."

Eva only smirked. "They are here, your majesty." Eva said fast, the words barely seperate. Aelin knew that Evangeline only meant to lift her spirits, as best she could.

"Thank you, Eva." Aelin said, using her eyes to ensure Eva knew what the gratitude was truly for. Eva nodded and took her seat by the door.

"Are you ready, Fireheart?" Rowan asked. Aelin closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and slowly exhaled. She opened her eyes and nodded to the guards. They opened the doors.

The royal families take their seats. The last one in kneels in front of Aelin.

The Queen of Melisande, Aya Beckend, having been reinstated after years of begging Aelin, kneeled at her feet.

"Before this continues, your Majesty, I must again thank you for your mercy. My people and I have much to atone for, and yet you gave me another chance. For that, I am thankful." She said. Aelin stared at the queen for a few moments, thinking.