A sudden look of understanding washed over Ayako's face as Scarlet opened the book. "Yes, it makes sense that they would refuse the brand... but it was necessary. In any case, Megumi has accepted a brand, so she will not be hunted. We do not punish spirits merely because they possess power. If that was the case I wouldn't be around, now would I?" He gave a gentle laugh and closed the book. "Do not concern yourself with the matter any further. I will present the council with this information and we may take further precautions, but Megumi is still free to join if she likes." With that he swiftly separated himself from Scarlet and made his way towards the council room. He knew the girl would be able to see as clear as day that he was hiding something from her, but that was classified information that she didn't need to know. 

"Don't let that creepy ninja get you down," Garoth said, seeing that Megumi seemed to be having second thoughts. "Most of the people you'll meet aren't like that. There's plenty of odd ones like Scarlet, but we're pretty odd ourselves when you think about it. And if anyone gives you trouble, just let me know and I'll kick their ass." He chuckled brightly, wanting Megumi to be in a good mood when she applied to join. Hopefully she'd get lucky and get to speak with Ayako again. If it was Malik... well, he wouldn't do anything to her now, but that man had a talent for putting people on edge.