Garoth shook his head when Megumi spoke, but tried to hide his frustration. These were the things he had wanted to know before he brought her here. Even so, if her father had rebelled or put up some kind of fight, he was sure that his actions wouldn't be held against her now. After all, she was perfectly willing to accept the brand, so there was no problem that he could see. His train of thought was interrupted, though, as his friend Scarlet approached them. Some people thought she was an odd one, but Garoth preferred to think of her as quirky. "Oh, sure, I don't have anything to do after this," he replied to her invitation. "Just as long as you're not going to tell me about death omens or anything creepy like that..." Before he could continue the conversation, though, the seal on the wall flared with light and Aliat emerged alongside another figure.

The council member was a man wearing a white kimono with crimson streaks. He was average in size and stature, had gentle facial features, bright blue eyes, and long copper hair. The brand on his forehead told the world that he was a kitsune. "You must be Megumi," he said in a soft voice looking at the wolf with kind eyes. "My name is Ayako. I will be hearing your case today and, so long as you act with honesty and good faith, will be the one issuing you your brand." Then he looked at Garoth. "I trust that the rogue spirit at the shrine is dead?" The griffin nodded. "Good work. It is always better when things can be taken care of expediently. I will not be needing you for this audience. Just file a mission report with the receptionist, and you will be dismissed." His gaze shifted back towards the wolf. "Megumi, you may come with us. We will go inside to speak privately first, and then I will give you your brand." His demeanor seemed to hold an air of authority about it without displaying any form of malice or aggression. He waited patiently for everyone to obey, yet something about him made it clear that he would not tolerate insubordination.

"Good luck," Garoth said as he gave Megumi a friendly pat on the back, and then headed over to the receptionist to write up a report. Meanwhile, Ayako stood waiting for Megumi to walk with him into the council room, part of him wondering if the wolf would talk first or if he would have to prompt a conversation.