Vinyaran was a trusted pillar of the royal family of Gondor. The brother of the late Prince Minastan and King Telemnar (r. T.A. 1634-36) was the third son of King Minardil (r. TA 1621-1634). Aside from being King Tarondor's uncle, he served as chief counsellor, the King's Commander in overall charge of Gondor's army and the Lord of Osgiliath. He wielded a great deal of power, yet with a statesman's authority.
Vinyaran was a dedicated military man and fought beside his father when he fell to the Corsairs at Pelargir. Helping to regroup the shattered King's Guard, he led them in a decisive charge to that saved the day. He was a superb military strategist and tactician at 82 still rode and fought as well as any other Knight (Q. Roquen). However, because of his many duties, he could not always be with the King. Still, he was frequently seen in the capital between visits to Dor Rhûnen, Angrenost, and South Ithilien.
Vinyaran was not entirely without secrets. In their youth, he and his older twin vied for the love of Lady Melabrian. His brother Minastan won her favor after both had excelled in trials of poetry, arms, and athleticism, but Vinyaran remained her fast friend until her death. The Lady came from Aranelaith, a fief between Belfalas and the Ringló and was exceedingly beautiful. Vinyaran loved her so that failing to win her hand, he forsook all interest in love and never married. However, he had been wooed in secret by the mysteious Ethudil who became his secret mistress. There was something in her that strongly reminded him of his lost love, and he often sought her company.
References[]
- MERP: Minas Tirith
- MERP: Northwestern Middle-earth Campaign Atlas
- MERP: Northwestern Middle-earth Gazetteer