Plonck. Boromir’s fingers tangled in the strings. Grimacing at the discord, he tried again. Plonck. Again!

“Sir?” Boromir’s voice broke. He gave the corporal his best smile and indicated the guitar slung on the trooper’s back. “Could you teach me that song about the ladies of Lamedon?”

“You must enthuse them.” Boromir addressed the recruiters. “Like this!” He grabbed the nearby lute, voice ringing out over the chords, “Rise and fight for Gondor!”

The elves passed the lyre and sang absurd verses. Boromir laughed heartily, until it was thrust at him. Ready, he easily picked out the melody, and sang.