S.A 2057
Manyamë and Naerchanar made preparations for their journey back to Mithlond, sensing the shifting atmosphere around them. The mighty roar of waves and distant whispers seemed to beckon, evoking both joy and deep sorrow in their hearts. They understood that their time had come, that they were being called. The Watchers of the Grey Havens had traveled to foreign lands, ensuring that the Eldars were aware of the awaiting white ships. There was no denying that their time in Middle-Earth had come to an end. The Eldars were no longer actively involved in the war, and it was time for them to move forward. Giril longed to stay close to Himring, unwilling to leave just yet. She promised to care for their small house, driven by the hope of receiving news from her brother Carvedir and staying near Haldanáre. In Oldaer, she had found a devoted guardian who rarely left her side. Orneth herself had a new mission to focus on. She wanted to bid farewell to her dear friends Manyamë and Naerchanar, and also confirm the rumor of her beloved Lanyarë and her husband Lord Mannamo leaving Middle-Earth. Additionally, she eagerly anticipated the reunion between Manyamë and her mother.
Orneth couldn't help but be amazed by the beauty of her nearly four-year-old daughter, Falchiel. With a heart-shaped face reminiscent of her grandmother Manyamë, Falchiel's eyes were deep and dark grey, tinged with a hint of melancholy. There was no doubt that Falchiel was Falchon's daughter, and every time Orneth gazed upon her, memories of their past filled her with sadness and longing. Although Orneth often felt saddened by the fact that Falchiel was not aware of her father by blood, she found herself contemplating the mysterious connection between Falchiel and Demdor—a bond she couldn't fully comprehend. Demdor had played a significant role in Falchiel's birth, saving her life, and had become an important part of her upbringing, all without intruding too much into her life. Orneth remained puzzled by the depth of love Demdor had for Falchiel, but she trusted her instincts, knowing that the young elleth was in good hands.
With a heavy heart, Orneth reflected on the limited communication she had received from Falchon. His army was constantly on the move, making it challenging to locate them. Their whereabouts were shrouded in mystery, known only to a select few. Despite the difficulties, Orneth had managed to send a letter to him through some new soldiers who were heading to Fornost Erain. In her letter, she had mentioned Falchiel, feeling that she had no other choice but to share this information.
On a bright, sunny day in the year 2057 of the Second Age, Orneth, Manyamë, and Naerchanar embarked on their final journey together. The trip to their former homes was tranquil and swift, and soon, Manyamë and Naerchanar found themselves at their old cabin near Mithlond, relishing memories of the past. Manyamë prepared herself for an emotional reunion with her parents, while Naerchanar headed to the docks to behold the majestic white ships that would soon carry them away. The moment had arrived, and they all sensed it deep within their hearts. Orneth was the first to spot Lord Mannamo and Lady Lanyarë as they approached, their dignified presence standing out amidst the bustling crowd. Despite the joy of seeing old friends, Lady Lanyarë's brow furrowed as she expressed concern for her son, Marilo, whom they had not heard from in a year. Lord Mannamo echoed her worry, revealing that he had sent countless messages to both Marilo and Falchon but had received no reply. The anxiety etched on their faces was palpable, and Orneth felt a pang of longing as they spoke of Marilo—a dear friend and cherished family member whom she had not thought of in ages. The ravages of war had disrupted everything, and Lady Lanyarë mourned the fact that they would not all be together for their departure to Valinor. Mannamo shared that Mantaro had been injured in an assault but would join them on their journey to Valinor, where he would find the healing he needed. Mistamë had chosen to remain in Mithlond, patiently waiting for Carvedir, and Lord Mannamo expressed his sorrow at leaving behind so many loved ones. Despite the uncertainty, Orneth maintained her optimism, assuring her friends that they would reunite in due time. "Your time has come," she said with a comforting smile. "We will all be together again very soon."
Orneth's gaze shifted as she spotted a familiar figure making their way towards them. It was Manyamë, and in that moment, it felt as though the bustling noises around them were silenced. Orneth held her breath, anticipating the long-awaited reunion about to unfold. Lady Lanyarë and Lord Mannamo stood frozen, as if witnessing something difficult to comprehend. Manyamë spoke softly, her voice trembling with emotion, "Forgive me, Mother and Father." Lady Lanyarë opened her mouth to speak, but no words emerged. Manyamë continued, her voice growing stronger with each passing moment, "I will join the white ship as well. I have witnessed things that cannot be unseen. I have committed deeds that cannot be undone. Darkness and sorrow have taken hold of my heart, and I yearn for peace." As Lord Mannamo approached her, his commanding presence emanating both fierceness and kindness, Orneth took a deep breath. She noticed the resemblance between father and daughter, and her heart swelled with emotion. Lord Mannamo placed his hands on Manyamë's shoulders, and a smile broke across her face. "My daughter, my precious gem," he said, his voice choked with emotion. "Words fail me in this moment." Overwhelmed by emotion, Lady Lanyarë began to weep. "My daughter," she cried, "this cannot be true. I have missed you so deeply. What happened to you? Where have you been? How did you find your way back here? Who are you with? What darkness do you speak of?" Lord Mannamo signaled for Lady Lanyarë to pause, saying firmly, his gaze never leaving Manyamë's face, "We will discuss all of this later, my beloved." He understood the wisdom of withholding questions for now. He opened his arms and enveloped Manyamë in a warm embrace. Having also witnessed darkness and known the corrupting influence of evil, he was aware that even the purest intentions could be twisted. Orneth was certain that he would find it in his heart to forgive Manyamë, and she believed Lady Lanyarë would follow his lead.
As they boarded the ship, three solitary maidens remained, standing with heavy hearts as they bid farewell to their loved ones. Mistamë, weighed down by sadness, said goodbye to her entire family. Beside her stood Simawen, both eagerly awaiting the return of their beloveds from the war. Three maidens with a shared purpose, each yearning for the presence of someone dear to them. Lord Mantaro and Lady Alcarinien appeared deeply saddened as they left Mistamë behind, their hearts heavy with sorrow, but they all had their reasons. While some sought respite from the weariness of this world, others required healing, and still others stayed behind, patiently awaiting the return of their beloveds. There was a profound understanding between them all, and a steadfast hope that they would soon be reunited.
And then, as Elarion blew the horn of the havens, it was time for the ship to set sail. Attendees bid their final farewells as Orneth observed naugrims and men standing together on the dock, forging unlikely friendships and alliances amidst these uncertain times. A new dawn had arrived, marking the end of an era. The white ship gradually receded into the distance, accompanied by a collective chorus of sighs that filled the air. The setting sun painted the sky in a breathtaking hue of red, and Orneth gazed at it, envisioning the ship venturing towards new lands. It was a poignant farewell, the eldars departing for good, never to return. Her beloved ones, gone. Though her heart was laden with sorrow and grief, their departure also held a certain beauty, a final act of grace.
All picture are AI-generated from Microsoft Bing DALL·E
