The Necromancer of Mirkwood

Lindeman and Grant sat in Bree-town Hunting Lodge.

Lindeman said: "Capturing the necromancer would bring great benefits to the free peoples. I marvel that no one has come forward to join the expedition."

Grant replied: "Captain, Sir, there are many who say these matters are not for the mortal man to pursue. The road to Mirkwood is long, and the place is said to be swarming with creatures that devour themselves in extreme hunger. On my many travels as your squire, I do not believe I have ever visited a place as deadly as Mirkwood."
He hesitated for a moment and continued: "If I may be so bold as to suggest something, perhaps the captain could re-consider whether the journey is worth while or whether the whole plan rose in the spur of the moment."

Lindeman made a dismissive gesture and replied: "There are some journeys that one must make."

Suddenly, Grant leaned forward and whispered: "Lindeman, look. I hope this is not about Jeric again. You have to understand that nothing can bring him back. It does not help if the necromancer can resurrect people. We don't have Jeric's body. No one knows where it is."

Lindeman toyed with his dagger, acting as if he had not heard a word. He pressed the blade against his palm until skin broke and a tiny amount of blood came out.

Finally he looked at Grant, but not in the eyes. He spoke with a flat voice:
"I hold all adventurers in Bree to be cowards. Prepare my horse and send forth my heralds. I shall ride to Mirkwood with or without help from others. And I shall return to Bree with the necromancer, or I shall perish while trying."

He rose and marched out of the Lodge.