The misstep had been his fault. It still didn't quell Eras' sudden anger at being struck. It was the first time in his life he'd been struck in the face and for a moment he was simply rendered speechless. The broad man snatched him by the hair to bring them so close he could feel the hot breath on his lips. He smelled the way Eras might have expected a tribesman so smell. Like sweat, despite the colder region. Eras kept skill. He didn't yelp or struggle, hoping not to escalate the situation. Eras didn't imagine they would kill him and the last thing he wanted to do was make more of a mess of their alliance. After words exchanged, the leader pointed down to the man on foot, so that he might translate the scolding.<br/><br/>"Of course," Eras responded, hiding his true feelings on the matter. He was alright though, and hoped the incident had not upset Sarhet enough to leave an impression on their negotiations. Whatever had gotten into his horse he wasn't sure. Perhaps she simply knew he was not a confident rider and so didn't trust him when he asked her to be still.<br/><br/>Eras returned his attention to the leader when spoken to again. He repeated words that Eras knew, and he nodded in affirmation. His cheek was stinging, feeling hot. Of course the man would have hit him with a certain amount of brute force. They were uncivilized, after all. He didn't repeat such a comment out loud, yet still didn't advert his eyes when the man addressed him. The leader had nodded too, taking in an eyeful.<br/><br/>Eras could feel the fury in Sarhet's movement as he ventured close to take the reins of the mare closer to the neck of his horse. It was barely perceptible. Sarhet was naturally a gentle man, so while he didn't jerk, his movements were just jarring enough that Eras recognized it. Finally, the slave took a deep breath and placed his hand over his master's. A signal that he was alright, and understood his error. He was happy to be off the horse and on his own two feet and entering the tent, he was still interested to watch the proceedings.<br/><br/>"Please tell him that we've brought our own hospitable offerings we hope to share," Sarhet explained, gesturing for that to be brought forward. Wine and food of all types. Fruit, nuts, spices, and decadent honeyed sweets. The only thing they hadn't brough along were meats, as it spoiled quickly while traveling in their climate. Once in the tent, Sarhet situated himself and Eras went to work unpacking the trunk of lavish offerings. He showed the tribesman the wine as the ale was passed around. Sarget took his cup with a nod of thanks.<br/><br/>"Should this alliance be successful, we hope to provide you with the sort of goods that Dusan both has access to and produces." Things like processed grains, fruits, and vegetables that they cultivated on their viable farmland. As far as Sarhet could tell, the Develdian region was nutrient deficient in its soil and growing conditions. "If we cannot grow it, likely we can import it." Sarhet had ships at his disposal for such things.<br/><br/>"Eras, please show him the nut bread and honey spread. It pairs well with most ales," the duke directed. Despite his still smarting cheek, Eras did not hesitate. His orders were carried out smoothly and fluidly. He was curious what the leader would do when he tasted such rich and decadent spiced flavors, and hoped that it would appease the man's temper. He cut the man a slice and slathered spiced honey generously over the crusty bread before sidling over to press his thigh next to the man who had taken his position in the center of the tent.