[The beast isn't one of his brethren, Emet-Selch would argue. It is not even likely to be one of his people's creations. And furthermore he was being gentle. He did not kill it, after all, given the other man's fondness for creatures. A true bleeding heart. (At least, that's how Emet-Selch recalls it from his time in Elpis...now that he can recall it.)]

[The unexpected line of questioning has Emet-Selch arching one dark eyebrow - humorless, but openly perplexed. (--Oh! Ohhhh... That.) Yes, well of course Hermes would notice... At the moment, however, Emet-Selch lacks the patience to address the matter of his appearance. That, and he doubts the creature has a mind to wait for them to have a leisurely conversation about how he came to look this way.]

I've certainly been worse. Now, if you are finished gawking, I would have a word with you. Preferably somewhere we are less likely to be disturbed.

[As predicted, the beast refuses to back down when its offspring are so clearly in danger. With another roar, it lunges towards Emet-Selch, only this time it will find itself bouncing off of a magical barrier - one which flickers from the impact, shivering with sparks, but ultimately holds.]

I suspect this lot would find that to be more agreeable as well.