Why did Legolas set sail for the Grey Havens only after Aragorn's death?

[Inziladun]

Originally Posted by SlverGlass

That's what was my conclusion. However, despite the general camaraderie between Legolas and Aragorn, nowhere in the books is a deeper friendship shown. It just doesn't feel appropriate that Legolas would time such an important step in my life in accordance with Aragorn's death.

Legolas did have some measure of respect, and even reverential love, for Aragorn. When Gimli and Legolas recount to Merry and Pippin their experiences in the Paths of the Dead, Gimli makes the comment that it was only "the will of Aragorn" that kept him going. Legolas answered:

'And by the love of him also,' said Legolas. 'For all those who come to know him come to love him after his own fashion...'

ROTK The Last Debate

Additionally, Gimli, who was probably Legolas's best friend, was over 262 years old when they set sail (according to ROTK Appendix C), and that was pretty old for a Dwarf. Couple Gimli's old age with the death of Elessar, and what more did ME have for Legolas?

Originally Posted by SlverGlass

However, your theory about the Silvan elves still residing in ME holds a lot of merit. Thank you for not deeming my question "infantile", Inziladun. I am a little nervous as this is the first thread that I have started in the Downs.

No need to be nervous. Everyone here was a newbie at some point.