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training the new hound

A restrictive society and no other options forced Henry to be a homemaker. Whatever his childhood dreams were, they were set aside and forgotten. His husband was the handler for the royal hunting dogs and Henry helped out and learned that trade, so when his husband unexpectedly died he took over and started living how he wanted: as a man.

He doesn't get as much trouble about his masculine presentation as you'd expect; people may think he's strange, but they're used to him, and he's respected among his peers. Those who know Henry describe him as cold, but fair. He has a lot of resentment towards nobility who have it easy and throw their power around. His arrangement with Del is an outlet for this.

Del carries heavy guilt that’s built up through his life. He's searching for punishment, but he is an avoidant coward who can’t confront the true sources, so he’s drawn towards uninvolved parties like Henry.

Del becomes emotionally attached to Henry, his punisher. Henry just thinks Del is pathetic and lower than a dog.