Narrator:
The reports that come in the next morning are disturbing. Well over a dozen gaurd dogs have been killed in the night. The men are uneasy, for no one saw what killed or maimed their dogs. The only evidence is that whatever it is, it shoots the dogs without warning, and it doesn't seem to miss.
Much more pleasant is the retainer who meets him shortly after the watch reports come in.
Unknown Retainer #1:
...and so my Master, Freidrich -
[numerous family names]
of Tudor -
[numerous accolades and titles]
requests your presence at dinner with him this evening, at the camp of Brandon of Harrogate, son and heir of the Marquis d' Harrogate.
I am at your disposal to bring to him your reply.
[bows]
Narrator:
Jhereg has two reactions to the retainer. The first is that he is quite good at his job. He speaks well and the message relayed places his master in a very fine light. It is an invitation to dine with the people of power in the realm - and both are near neighbors. A politically wise thing to do.
The second reaction is that he doesn't like it when people outrank him. The whole tone of the message very clearly said that Freidrich, probable heir of Tudor outranks him on the social ladder, and for that matter, so could Brandon.
Jhereg:
Please tell your lord and master that Jhereg Rabban Ian d'McKittrick, Ambassador to the Elves and Count of Windhaven would be happy to dine with his cousin tonight. It has been almost three years since I last dined with him and his lovely wife. Tell me how is my Aunt?
retainer: [no change in features]
She is in Tudor, no doubt making plans to insure that she becomes the next Duchess of Tudor - they say it's in the blood.
Jhereg:
Please give my regards to her when next you see her. You may tell your master that my cousin that Gallilei of the Elves, Baron James Ridenour and my squire will accompany me this evening.
Retainer: [bows and departs]
Most assuredly.