[maikafanawen]

The sight of land was unexpected. The crew had gone around the ship working fast to get all the necessary repairs done before another storm hit. The stays that had snapped were replaced and the mizzen topgallant was mended. Both the jibs had ripped free of their spars and the crew would need another day or so to finish maintenance.

Ani Dao was below in her quarters along with Ryeran and Rangar pouring over the maps and charts.

“The storm has changed our course by thirty miles only. Not that disastrous. Is there a certain place we need to drop anchor or once we’re here, the passengers will take jolly boats in?” The captain shrugged her shoulders and looked towards Rangar who answered.

“We need to get ashore now. You know exactly where we are?” Ryeran nodded and pointed to a place on the map.

“We’re about two hundred and fifty miles by sea to the mouth of the Harnen on this hump, not far from Umbar...” his voice trailed, and he glanced up, concern etched on his face. Ani Dao brushed it away.

“Umbar is not one of our major problems as of now Mr. Ryeran.” She turned back to Rangar. “Should we take the jolly boats up the Harnen and drop anchor there, or do you want to sail along more south dropping anchor past Umbar?”

* * *

Wren woke with a start. The Silver Wyrm had stopped. Dressing quickly, she went up to the deck where the crew was working on repairs. The noblewoman found Rave standing at the railing.

“Land,” she said as Wren approached. The Gondorian heaved a sigh of relief.

“Thank Eru.”

Mr. Yazven’s, and Aerin’s funerals were held later that day. Their bodies were wrapped in blankets from their quarters. The ceremony was led by the captain who said the ritual words and prayers for a safe journey to Mandos’ halls as would have been said in a regular land funeral. Except this time an extra part was added asking Ulmo to aid them on their journey. No one cried. It was as though they had no tears left. Instead their faces were hard and set for the part of the journey that was left to come. Before the makeshift caskets were sent into the sea, others had a few words they wanted to say...