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KristalClear’s father runs a store in town “Troyes & Co Chandler of Equestrian Wares”. Henri Troyes started work as an apprentice saddle maker, became a GuildMaster, and did that for several years.
It was heavy duty work.
In order to ease the discomfort in his hands he then moved into retail, selling saddlery, tack, boots and clothing. However, he can’t stop himself from fiddling with bits of hardware, making little repairs to things, and tidying up some of the secondhand goods which find their way into his shop.
Henri Troyes has a reputation for always being able to supply tack for all sizes of horse, especially smaller ponies. That makes him particularly popular with people who want a tiny saddle to suit an infant. He will either adapt something, or he’ll tailor make one. Beyond the counter, beyond the displays, he’s arranged his workbench so that it faces into the shop. That way, he can fidget with things to his heart’s content whilst still being instantly attentive to any customers in the shop.
NutJob is aware that Henri Troyes still upholds some French traditions. He’s not sure if he should call him Henry, as suggested, or according to French etiquette address him as Monsieur Troyes. Side stepping the direct approach, NutJob chooses a topic which he knows the family likes.
“Kristal was going to tell me how your family came to settle in Wolfland.”
“Yes, fascinating history. Weird history actually! We were pirates, but we weren’t pirates. I need to change out of my work clothes, Kristal will tell you more.”
“Yes Mademoiselle,” says Mme. Troyes, “you tell, Dave, the story of the French connection, and I’ll get that tea sorted.”
With dad upstairs, getting washed and changed, and with mum in the kitchen making a disproportionate racket with cups and saucers and things, NutJob and KristalClear are alone and have some breathing space.
NutJob looks a bit exasperated and he hasn’t even been in the house five minutes! He looks at KristalClear, she smiles at him in such a way that he can’t be angry with her. Even though
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