[piosenniel]

Harald walked along the streets of Bree, putting his thoughts in order concerning the outlaws and Bree-land's defense. He was alone now - Telien had turned off on the street that led to the Town Hall, intent on seeing to the Hobbits who had stayed the night there.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Chathol-linn’s post – Mayor Harald

How could they begin to answer the threat of the outlaws unless they knew their number and nature?

“Minastan could find out,” Harald mused. “He’s a Ranger, and stealthy. He talks bold, he acts bold. I wager he is bold enough to pay a visit to these outlaws – on the sly. I guess I must speak to the big oaf. Oh well. If I let him poke his barbs at me maybe he will say yes. I’ll tell him it is important, and that’s no lie.”

Luck was on Harald’s side in this matter. He had searched only a few streets when he saw the Ranger walking toward the stables. Most shops and services that aided travelers lay near the Road: the inn, the stables, weapons shops and such. Minastan must be getting ready to head out of town.

“Minastan Helmman!” he called. The Ranger turned around. He offered no greeting save an impatient look, but for Minastan this was ordinary. Harald walked toward him thinking, I will accept the benefit of his self-proclaimed seven years’ age over mine. I will not get angry.

“Minastan, all your points last night were well-taken,” he began. “Thanks for your strong words. In the light of day, there are many questions unanswered. Those outlaws - how well are they armed? How many horses? What do they want?”

Minastan did not answer; he just shaded his eyes from the morning sun and listened. Harald continued, “It is even possible that old Lilac was right and they only want – “

That was enough for Minastan. Harald listened to several minutes worth of opinions on old Missus Lilac and anybody fool enough to heed her. In the middle of this Harald interrupted.

“Right, I could not agree more. But now what? My thought was, with all your Ranger experience you must know someone who could, would, undertake a spy mission on those outlaws. We need information, Minastan. Can you suggest anyone? This is very important!”