Saelleth had only just recently come of age; her parents had gathered all the close friends and family and they celebrated the one-hundredth year since her conception. As was the custom Saelleth, and the few others who had reached adulthood, were brought before Lord Elrond to receive his blessing. Lord Elrond spoke of the great sadness that he felt for them entering a world during such dark times, but he also was full of hope that each one of them would strive to bring peace back to middle earth in any way they could.
Saelleth had already thought at great length on what path she may take, she had often watched the warriors of Imladris enter and leave the valley and had longed to be able to join them and see the world beyond. Her parents had forbidden her to bear any arms other than a small knife for protection. She had begged to be able to join her friends for training but again she had been refused. Instead Saelleth had been encouraged to pursue the path of a musician.
At first she disliked it, she saw little use in learning music and song when there was so much need for warriors to protect the lands and its people. Then whilst practicing in the gardens of Imladris Lord Elrond had beckoned for her to come over. He commended her on her playing but commented that she did not appear to enjoy the music that she had played so beautifully. So Saelleth explained her wish to serve in one of his warbands and that she considered her vocation of musician as a futile pursuit. Lord Elrond listened and then told Saelleth something that changed her opinion utterly. Many of his warbands had heard here playing as they had passed beyond the valley and all had been touched by her music; her ballads of the days long since passed of heroes and their deeds had inspired them to perform great feats themselves. Lord Elrond told her that there were some talented musicians would often accompany a warband into battle, using their knowledge of ancient songs to inspire their brethren and demoralise their foes.
Saelleth asked Lord Elrond to allow her to serve in his warbands and he agreed to speak with her parents and ask that they may allow her to receive some martial training. Needless to say when approached Saelleth’s parents capitulated and agreed that Saelleth could begin training as soon as she wished.
