Arion was beginning to understand that leaving Claudia's Palace would be considerably more complicated than entering it.
The nearest beast had settled its enormous head against his thigh, demanding attention with the same shameless persistence Boreas displayed whenever someone stopped scratching his ears. Another occupied the space behind him, effectively blocking the corridor, while the remaining animals watched from various positions around the ruined entrance hall.
Nero stood several meters away, looking at the collection of corrupted creatures with an expression of profound dissatisfaction.
"You cannot take them home. Dean already has Boreas, and I doubt your medical board will appreciate twelve infected beasts wandering through the imperial gardens."
Arion looked down at the animal leaning against him.
"I heard you the first time."
"Then explain how you intend to get rid of them."
That was an excellent question.
