Combat in Havens: always optional?

By LETE, in Middle-earth Quest

Hiyas!

I was under the complete impression that even if the location was a Haven, a Minion would still had to be confronted (combatted) by a travelling Hero, during the Combat or Peril Step. But reading other parts of the rules it seems this is always optional (up to the Hero), like during the Ambush Step.

Must a Hero Combat a Minion in a Haven during the Combat or Peril Step, or is this always optional?

Thanks!

L

Combat in a Haven always only takes place if the Hero chooses.