“Of course,” Duke Sarhet said when the request was made. Their royal stable had been mostly empty before, built in the same way to catch the wind but even so, he doubted their horses were used to this weather any more than they were. Dusanian breeds were fine boned and dainty, coats short and thin, manes hogged entirely to expose graceful swan necks. And only reserved for the very elite or the military minded. Jausemir enjoyed them as a luxury and so he bred a few foals a year.<br/><br/>“We’ve already anticipated your horses may not appreciate the heat. The stablemaster has been given orders to keep their neck and underside sponges with cool water.” If they didn’t drop their thicker coats soon Sarhet would suggest that they allow them to be shaved. “I’ll have clothing sent to you and your men.” He glanced to Eras a moment and the slave looked back at him. They shared a subtle, silent exchange.<br/><br/>“Thank you. I trust Eras to choose for me. He knows my taste. You can present them to me at the ceremony later. Enjoy your bath. I’m sure it will be..” He paused, trying to decide, “refreshing.” The Duke stepped out, leaving Eras to help the Khan. The slender slave stepped forward, though he was unsure how to proceed with the bow and quiver.<br/><br/>“Should I help you remove this? The baths are down the hall through that archway. There is one in each wing of the palace. You will have this one all to yourself and your men.” Once the weapon was set aside he showed him the way, opening the door so that he could enter. The bath was more a large communal pool, the bottom a colorful assortment of stained glass. There were divots in the floor and water flowed over through them, both carrying water in and taking it away.<br/><br/>“There’s a sump where groundwater collects, is purified, and then run back through the marble pathways.” The arching windows were opened, letting the heat of the sun inside, to warm the pool but only slightly. Dusanians preferred the cooler water to bathe in. “If you’d prefer it heated I could send for a few buckets.” He moved the curtains aside further, using rope to tie them still. “This is my favorite bath with its view of the ocean. Duke Sarhet’s overlooks Atla,” he commented, hoping that he enjoyed it.<br/><br/>“Allow me to help you with your clothing. You must be uncomfortable,” Eras said evenly. Generally, he wouldn’t have hesitated. It was customary for slaves to help their master with their clothing, and their baths. Dusanians were not shy about nudity. Yet, this was a man who was used to his own cultures so he felt the need to make his actions know before he executed them. With Khan Tiaga knowing what to expect Eras’ movements were confident, reaching for the collar of Taiga's shirt.