Legolas bowed his golden head in shame, "I was." his gaze slowly lifted to Melannen, his azure eyes pleading to her for forgiveness. "I never meant to hurt you." when he spoke his voice was clear and soft, and Elros saw a side of Legolas that he had never though existed. "Forgive me . . . ."
Melannen's eyes darted from Legolas to Glorfindel, and back again. After a moment of silence, she spoke. "Some wounds refuse to heal, Legolas, especially those of the heart." Then she slipped her hand back into Glorfindel's. "That we all must learn."
The Balrog Slayer slowly sheathed his sword. Though he still felt hatred, Glorfindel was noble and kind and he knew he had acted impetuously. "One day, Thranduilion, I may ask for your forgiveness."
All of the Elves present stood in a dazed hush, wondering how they should react. Finally, Legolas spoke. "Another path awaits me now, one that has occupied my thoughts for a long while. I believe, now, it is time for me to take it." Then, with a respective nod, the Prince turned and leapt upon his horse. "Farewell, to all of you." Then he spoke swiftly to his steed and like lightning he was gone.
It had been nearly a week since Legolas' departure to the havens, and Melannen could not bring herself to face the truth. For so long she had wanted him back, though when he was there it was not like before. Of course, Glorfindel had shown only love and understanding, to both herself and Elros, but it was not the same. She still, in the inner most part of her heart, Melannen still grieved for the prince she lost. At times when she was sitting alone memories would come flowing back to her, visions of the past which now was long forgotten to her. Though it had been many years since she had met her Prince, it seemed like only yesterday she had found him, abused and delusional.
So it was, late in the month of February, Melannen left Rivendell and rode with all speed to the Havens to find Legolas before it was too late.
Melannen dismounted her chesnut mare, and looked around desperately for anyone at all. Though the havens seemed deserted. She startled when someone behind her spoke.
"You come just too late, my lady, he is already gone." Cirdan's voice was deep and laden with the wisdom that comes with years.
She turned, her eyes already brimming with tears. "Too late?" her voice sounded defeated and hurt.
The shipwright nodded slowly, "If you look to the west as far as you can see, you may yet be able to spot the ship before it fades into the Land of Light." he said, pointing out onto the water.
Melannen strained her eyes, and she did indeed see the ship, far out on the water, its sails billowing in the wind, though she had come too late.
