The Tale of Tar-Ciryatan's Daughter by Kaylee Arafinwiel  

Prologue: King's Daughters/The Captain's Wife

This prologue is a pair of drabbles written in 2023 that introduced Ailinel and Gaerondur.

Ailinel’s gone and learned all the tools of the trade - sailing, that is.

The King’s settlers need wives. There are precious few women among the foresters, prospectors, and miners sent to the coasts, bringing riches to Numenor.

“You do not mind having a ship of women, my lord Captain?” Ailinel asked. Captain Ondoher laughed.

“Is not the Lady the source of our favor? Remember the King is your father now, and make a good match.”

Ailinel’s eyes met Shipman Gaerondur’s as he taught her to tie off the lines.

“Would you sail with a wife, Gaerondur?”

He smiled. “I would.”

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“Gaerondur!”

Captain Gaerondur turned to catch Ailinel in his arms, and kiss her thoroughly. “There you are, beloved. I thought you had got lost!”

“Of course not, silly.” Ailinel laughed, eyes dancing merrily as he twirled her around. “I’ve just been with the medic, is all.”

Gaerondur stepped back, setting Ailinel on her feet. His brow creased with concern. “Are you well, zimra?”

Ailinel smiled. “We are quite well,” she said, cradling her belly.

The Captain’s eyes widened, and he kissed her again, making her giggle. “Will you be safe sailing out with me?”

“Quite safe, love,” she assured him.