Something in Salem jumps when Beleth reaches out, but it sinks back down again when she redirects her hand to his shoulder. Friendly, a bit impersonal. It didn't match the impression that he'd gotten from her before, but he knew when it was better to step back. He didn't want her to be uncomfortable, and so simply took what she offered with a smile. His hand came up to grip her wrist briefly, but he left it at that.

Her thanks makes the corner of his mouth creep upward. "We always find a way to adapt and overcome. We are Elvhen. Nothing changes that or pulls it apart."