Previous Jhereg file - the intro page.
People reading Anne came from here
Narrator:
Castle McMannon, a meeting of the council of nobles has just ended. Just outside the chambers waits Jhereg, cooling his heels while the deliberations come to a close. Not even his keen hearing can make out what has gone on inside. The door opens and Mary Cadwallader (daughter of the Duchess, heir apparent) steps out. Most would consider her features average, but her smile outshines those who might be considered "true beauties."
Mary: [bright and cheery]
Congratulations! They've given you permission!
[catches his gaze, blushes]
No, not that, my exotic elven suitor, permission to mount an expedition to reclaim castle Llughen! The official writ will happen later when the scribes get all of the wording right, but they ask you to form a group of stout and hearty rogues to see if the deed can be done. It won't be written, but they would like it if you could take with you some of your followers who have gotten squeezed out of lands by the recent turmoils. It gets them out of our hair and puts them to useful work. Work that might net them some peace, if they get to win and help oversee your holdings.
So put out the call to your friends and form your group. This isn't going to be easy.