Hadrin fetched a wooden box from inside the waystation.
He set it on the bench and lifted the lid. A padded hollow occupied the center. Beside it lay a narrow leather strap with a polished clasp and a small wooden striker.
"The bell fits here." he said. "Bronze, with three silver bands. A rowan branch on the handle. Whoever brings it back must leave the handle attached."
Tessa examined the empty case. "You expect someone to break it?"
"I expect people carrying axes to solve an inconvenient fastening with an axe."
"We repair ships. We understand fastenings."
"Then you understand why I mentioned it."
He closed the lid and sat beside it. His earlier interest had settled into concentration. This was evidently an offer he had considered before they arrived.
"Who has the bell?" Tessa asked.
"Corren of Reedbank House."
"Did he steal it?"
Hadrin picked a loose thread from his sleeve.
"He won a contest."
Orin leaned against the chopping block. "What kind?"
