"Good even," Velika said, all formality as she regarded the white-haired stable keep. She had seen him before, and he struck her notice because he'd come to the apothecary not just for himself but for his charges--the horses. A man who cared for beings other than himself, and most especially animals, earned her respect. The former noblewoman gave him a smile, inclining her head graciously.
"I have heard of the auctions," she said. She had considered going--Velika had been trained to ride, as all noblewomen were, and she thought that having a mare would help greatly with her deliveries of medicine, as well as her occasional ventures to do business in other towns and cities. "I believe that I shall attend."
"How are you this evening, sir?" Velika inquired. Though her tone was one of politeness, she was truly interested in his well-being.