Team Templar-Trouble with the Fake Guild

   “WHAT?!” Spun jumped, almost dropping the glass he was polishing. Recovering, he looked over at Spun, who was staring at the Drifblim in front of him. The Raichu’s drink was knocked over, but he paid it no mind. “What do you mean, there’s a new guild in Stargaze?!”

   “Um, exactly that...?” Uki bobbed up and down nervously. “Remember Lickilicky?”

   “That guy?!” Spark slammed his paws of the table. “What’s he doing now?!”

   “Well, he formed a guild...? Pretty much the day everyone left Stargaze? The thing is, he’s using the guild to take advantage of a bunch of Pokémon?”

   “Why hasn’t the law enforcement dealt with this?” Ama asked, running a paw over the rim of her cup.

   “They, uh, won’t listen. I’ve gone to them a couple of times, but all they say is they’ll...look into it?” Spark growled, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I, um, actually think that they think it’s rivalry, and there should be free competition...?”

   “I should have dealt with him a long time ago.”

   “He’s got about half-a-dozen Pokémon working for him, and,” the Blimp Pokémon shut his eyes, “they...kinda took over the guild hall?”

   “WHAT?!!” The Electric Mouse Pokémon’s tail lashed out, taking a chunk out of the table. Uki flinched, but Ama was unfazed.

   “I’m going to have to charge you for that.” Spun called out, leaning on the counter. Spark ignored him.

   “Take whoever’s available back now, and teach him once and for all to stay out of our business!” He snarled.

   “The only three in town are Sanimin, Sliggoo, and Heracles. The rest are doing jobs in the town and surrounding areas, like you told them to.” Ama said calmly. Spark scowled, glancing around the bar. His eyes landed on a figure on the other side of the bar, who had their nose buried in an old tome.

   Ever since they had defeated Azure a couple of days before, the library had reopened to everyone in Stygian. And Morgana was thrilled with this. It was rare for her not to be found without her nose in a book or scroll, transcribing some spell, circle, or any information she found useful onto her personal scrolls. In fact, the only time she had been away from them for more than half-an-hour had been the previous day when Team Templar had taken the local Spewpa to the Luminous Meteor for evolution. To see the lights swirling around the Spewpa as they approached the meteor, one by one, to gain a new form...it had been worth it. Secretly, Morgana longed for the day when she would see the glowing bubbles surround her body, allowing her to evolve. But she would wait. It would make it much more special.

   Morgana was reading a passage on the use of a magic compass, when a paw forced her book down. The Fox Pokémon glanced up.

   “Hey, Kit, doing anything important right now?” She scowled, partially at the use of the nickname, partially because he had disturbed her reading.

   “Yes, so please go away Spark-san.” She tried to go back to her book, but the Raichu pushed it down further.

   “Like reading dusty old books?”

   “These dusty old books will help me save your fur one day.” She snapped.

   “Oh, ambitious, much!”

   “Morgana.” She looked at her Guildmaster, ignoring the annoying Raichu. “Where are Galahad and Brendan?”

   “At the market or with Team Luna Flare cleaning up the library.”

   “Go and find them. You three are going back to Stargaze City for a job.” The Pikachu ordered. “A fake guild is not something to be taken lightly. And Stargaze is too important to lose to the chaos a fake guild can create.” Morgana sighed and closed the tome.

   “Yes Ama-sama.”

   “In addition, if one guild gets a bad reputation, we all suffer. Since Spark can’t seem to control the goings of his own city...” Ama cast Spark a look, and the Raichu groaned.

*~*~*

   The trip back to Stargaze City was fairy uneventful, compared to the trip from it. Uki led them, with Heracles walking silently behind him, and Sanimin, a Semipour, was talking animatedly to Sliggoo and Brendan. Morgana trailed in the back, thinking about the spells she could be studying, and not really paying attention to the conversation.

   “So, what’s the story with Lickilicky?” Galahad finally asked, walking alongside Brendan.

   “Well, before Spark’s Guild was founded officially, Lickilicky was a dealer with guild-like services for the area, but had been cutting deals with the local thugs to keep business open, granted no one knew that. He saw Spark as competition, and did everything he could to disrupt the forming of it as a full guild. This was about ten years ago. You follow?” Brendan and Galahad both nodded, so Sanimin continued. “When Spark did become established, Lickilicky asked to establish a partnership. Spark was cautious, but agreed. It wasn’t long before rumors started flying around about the new guild.”

   “Low-paying jobs not being received, funds going missing, overworked apprentices, disrespected clients.” Heracles scoffed. “It was a nightmare.”

   “That’s awful!”

   “You speak like you were there.” Brendan commented.

   “I was.” The Heracross replied shortly.

   “He was one of the first apprentices accepted into Spark’s Guild.” Sanimin explained. “Anyway, Spark threw him out, and that was supposed to be the end of it.”

   “And it wasn’t?” Sliggoo asked curiously.

   “Yep. A few years later, we discovered an apprentice had betrayed us, and was working with Lickilicky. Needless to say, he was thrown out. Caused a ruckus and a fair amount of damage.”

   “He doesn’t give up.” Heracles said, glancing at Team Templar. “When we go against him, be on guard. He’s not above using dirty tricks.”

   “Understood.” Galahad looked over his shoulder at the youngest member of the team. “Got that Morgana?”

   “Mm-hmm.” The Fox Pokémon nodded absentmindedly.

   “Morgana...” Galahad repeated in a stronger voice.

   “Watch out for Lickilicky.” She said with a bit more emotion. The team’s leader nodded, satisfied.

*~*~*

   “Blend in and regroup at sunset.” Heracles ordered, then turned to Team Templar and Sliggoo. “You’ll have better luck at getting info than we will, since none of Lickilicky’s minions would recognize you.” Sanimin had already vanished, and Uki was already floated off. He had explained that he wouldn’t be helping, as he technically wasn’t a member of the guild. “See you in a few.” He nodded, before weaving into the crowd.

   “How about I go to the inn?” Morgana suggested. “That way, I can get some info from some of the locals.”

   “That sounds like a plan.” Galahad nodded. “But stay there. We’ll come get you.” Morgana grinned happily.

   “Can I come too?” Sliggoo waved his hand in the air in excitement.

   “Of course.” Safety in numbers.

   “Alright!” Morgana bumped against the Soft Tissue Pokémon in a playful manner. “Let’s go!”

   “Whoo-hoo!” The two went off, and the smiles lessened from Galahad and Brendan’s faces. They had a busy couple hours ahead of them, and it wouldn’t be as pleasant as going to the Inn.

   “Let’s go.” Brendan nodded silently.

*~*~*

   “Two bowls of sea shrimp soup.” Morgana reached into the pocket of her bag, removing a few gold Dine, the currency of Cepherus, before sliding the bag under her seat.

   “Comin’ right up.” The Lombre behind the counter took the money.

   “You’re newcomers to the area, aren’t you?” A Marshstomp who was nursing a cup glanced at her and Sliggoo.

   “Uh-huh!” Sliggoo nodded vigorously. Morgana had a stroke of brilliance.

   “We’ve actually traveled a long way to find a guild. We have a job that need completing, and neither of us can do it ourselves.”

   “Well you’ve come to the right town!” The Marshstomp gave a deep bellow. “Lickilicky’s Guild will help you!”

   “That fat oaf?” A nearby Kraby snorted. Immediately, the mood shifted. About half the Pokémon present chuckled, while the others scowled. “That incompetent ball of blubber can’t do anything right.”

   “He was doing good before that young upstart Spark showed up.”

   “Spark has a legitimate operation!”

   “Have you forgotten all the drama from when that legitimate operation started?” The tension was steadily rising.

   “That was because that bumbling idiot was messing with it! Ever wonder why Spark kicked him out?!” Sliggoo was about to yell something out, and Morgana noticed just in time to clamp a paw on his mouth.

   “He was just jealous that Lickilicky was better than he was!”

   “Yeah, and what about a few years later?!”

   “That’s different!!”

   “Oh, how so?!”

   “And if you haven’t noticed, Spark and his crew ran off to a different city!! They abandoned us to go with that other guild!!”

   “Oh, you want to go there?! Bring it on you fishcake!!”

   “ENOUGH!!” Lombre bellowed, and both Morgana and Sliggoo jumped. “SETTLE DOWN OR TAKE IT OUTSIDE, YAH?!” The bartender’s words had the desired effects, as the patrons settled back into their food and drinks, grumbling under their breath and shooting glares at those who had an opinion opposite of theirs. Only then did Morgana feel it was safe to remove her hand from Sliggoo’s mouth.

   “They’d rather throw their lots with a thief and scoundrel than an honest guild??” The Calling Pokémon was steaming. “You can’t go any lower than that!!”

   “I know, but hush! You’ll blow our cover!”

   “Your meals will be out in a minute.” Lombree told them.

   “So the town is torn apart by these two...guilds?” Morgana timidly asked Lombre. The bartender rolled his eyes.

   “That’s an understatement. Spark’s been gone a week, and we’re at each other’s throats. Personally,” he leaned in, “I support Spark. He doesn’t have the right attitude,” Sliggoo snickered, “but his guild’s hardworking and honest.” He returned to his original upright stance. “But got to remain neutral. Can’t risk losing customers.”

   “I think he can be trusted.” Sliggoo whispered to Morgana.

   “Um, Lombre...” The Jolly Pokémon looked up. “Do you mind if I ask you some questions about the guild?”

   “What questions do you have in mind?” His voice betrayed his curiosity.

   “Well...like what type of Pokémon belong to it? And what are their strategies?” The Lombre gave them an appraising looking, and opened his mouth as the door to the inn opened.

   “Lickilicky!” Someone warned, and immediately, half the customers got up and left through a side door, as a pink blob filled the doorway.

   “There go my customers.” Lombre scowled, turning away.

   “Hello everyone!” A deep, jolly voice boomed, and a chorus of greetings came in reply. There was a faint pop as the pink blob made it through the doorway, and Morgana and Sliggoo got their first look at the cause of all the mayhem in Stargaze.

   The words ‘pink mass’ would be a perfect description, Sliggoo thought, watching the new Pokémon greet the customers who had remained. Lickilicky was a large Pokémon, gleaming pink fur covering his body with a bob of pink fur that stood up on his head. One of the clients he was talking to pointed in their direction, and he looked over at them, grinning broadly before making his way over.

   “So you’re the two interested in a job being completed?”

   “Yes, we’ve traveled from a long way because we heard there was an amazing guild here Stargaze.” Morgana smiled. “Are you the guildmaster?”

   “Why, yes I am!” Lickilicky chuckled, rubbing her head. She winced when he rubbed harder than he probably intended, but he didn’t notice. “Guildmaster Lickilicky at your service!” He bowed, and the pink fluff on top of his head wiggled. Sliggoo turned away, trying to keep a straight face. Some guildmaster!

   “Our job isn’t for the faint of heart.” Morgana warned. “We’ve traveled this way because they’re this criminal who’s been disrupting our work, and we would like to have him removed.” Sliggoo laughed, and managed to hide it with a cough.

   “Not a problem.” Lickilicky waved a paw. “My apprentices are very dependable. And what might your line of work be?”

   “We’re apprentices to the-”

   “Pikachu from Allore City.” Morgana added. “She’s a...basket weaver, and this Pokémon is...very disruptive.” She finished lamely.

   “I see.” Lickilicky tapped the bar. “What does he do?” But Morgana was saved from answering by Lombree, who came bearing two bowls.

   “Your soup.”

   “Mmmm! Finally!” Sliggoo began to eat, fishing small sea shrimp from the bowl, eating happily. “Delicious! My regards to the cook!”

   “I’ll be sure to tell ‘em.” Lombre smiled, heading towards the kitchen.

   “If your job is in Allore City, it’ll be an additional cost for my apprentices to go there.” Lickilicky warned.

   “Oh, that won’t be a problem.” Morgana assured him. “We came here, and our tormentor followed us. He disrupts us whenever we go for supplies.”

   “Convenient!” Lickilicky chuckled. “And while this criminal is being dealt with, you can stay with me and my guild. For your safety, of course.” He winked.

   “No, that’s okay. We’re going to be staying here, at the inn.”

   “But if this criminal is aware that you have sought my help, he will surely come after you.” Lickilicky protested.

   “We’re going to meet up with a friend, and between the three of us, we’ll be okay.”

   “Oh no, I invite you come stay at Lickilicky’s Guild! We’ll treat you well!” Sliggoo scowled into his bowl.

   “I’m sorry. We can’t.”

   “No, I insist.”

   “No thank you.” Sliggoo gave the Licking Pokémon as hard a look as he could manage. “We’ll be fine.” Morgana took a sip from her bowl, surprised at the bitter taste. Strange.

   “No, truly, I insist you come.” Lickilicky watched Morgana as she took sips of the soup. “Perhaps you’ll like it so much you might want to join.” The declaration caused her to spit out a mouthful of soup.

   “Pardon?”

   “You’ll find that being part of a guild is much more exciting than the life of a basket weaver.” Lickilicky assured them. “You’ll become strong enough to take down this criminal on your own.”

   “...no, thank you.” Morgana muttered, keeping her eyes on the bowl. Why is he being like this? She took a mouthful of the soup, not giving herself the chance to continue the conversation. It’s bitter taste made her wonder about the ingredients. Nothing like what Galahad or Spun uses...huh? Morgana blinked, and the world swayed around her. What...what’s happening...? The colors were blurring together quickly, black lapping at her vision. Help...

*~*~*

   Galahad and Brendan stood outside the Guild Hall, watching Pokémon enter and leave it. After picking up bits of information, and asking questions to Pokémon they thought wouldn’t rant them out, they had ended up here.

   They had identified at least half-a-dozen Pokémon who were likely to be associated with Lickilicky. Most of them were below average or average level strength, but there were a few who looked like they could put up a fight.

   “It’s almost sundown.” Brendan glanced at the sky as Galahad kept a sharp eye on the guild’s entrance. “We should go get Morgana and Sliggoo.”

   “I’ll go.” Galahad gave the guild one last look before standing. “No need to draw unwanted attention. You go meet up with Heracles and Sanimin and get ready. Morgana, Sliggoo, and I will join you.”

   “Yes sir.” Brendan gave him a mock salute, before making his way down the street. Galahad sighed, before heading down a different street that would take him to the inn. The streets were quickly clearing, leaving the merchants to pack their goods and last-minute buyers to finish their transactions.

   “Hey, watch it.” A Gudurr growled when he accidently bumped into him.

   “My apologies.” Galahad ducked his head, trying to go around the Fighting-type. But the larger Pokémon remained in his way.

   “Where’re you going?”

   “The inn.” His eyes rose. There was something about the Gudurr that made him cautious.

   “Why?”

   “I have a friend there.”

   “A friend?”

   “Yes.” The two stood in silence for a moment, neither backing down or breaking their gaze.

   “Where’re you from?”

   “Kigen.”

   “That’s some long ways away from here.”

   “Yes it is.”

   “Get outa here.” The Gudurr moved out of the way. “And leave town as soon as you can.”

   Strange Pokémon. Galahad thought as he caught sight of the inn. He pulled the door open, eyes sweeping the room, then narrowing when he didn’t see a certain magic-using fox or Dragon-type Calling Pokémon. Making his way to the bar, he spotted something that calmed him a bit. A small bag that had a charm attached to it was on the floor, under a seat. Morgana’s. He gave a small sigh of relief. They’re nearby, then. Placing his bag on the ground, he looked around again. A few of the customers were looking in his direction, but they looked away when his eyes met theirs.

   But still no Morgana. Or Sliggoo. There was no trace of cream fur and purple slime anywhere.

   “Can I help you?” A Lombre came up to him, polishing a glass absentmindedly. Which seemed to be a common trait among bartenders, he noted in the back of his mind.

   “I’m looking for someone.” He paused. “And some information, I suppose.”

   “Information?” The Lombre tilted his head, curious. Galahad decided he could be trusted.

   “About the newest guild to the area.” The Jolly Pokémon entire aura shifted.

   “What do you want to know?”

   “Any information is helpful, but if you have any...interesting,” the bartender caught the hidden meaning, “information, I’d love to hear it.” He looked around the room again. No one seemed to be paying them any attention.

   “Gladly. But first, introductions. I’m Lombre, bartender of the Seven Stays.”

   “Galahad.” The two shook.

   “So Lickilicky took over Spark’s Guild Hall about a week ago, right after Spark’s Guild left for Stygian. As far as I can tell, he’s got a dozen Pokémon working for him. I’d say half are thugs from a local gang that he hired. The rest are Pokémon who feel he’s a better choice for a guildmaster than Spark. The one Pokémon to look out for is Atlas, his right-paw Pokémon. Nasty piece of work, that one. He was probably one of the yakuza before joining Lickilicky. Most jobs they accept are high-paying or ones that can be cheated on. Lickilicky’s also got Pokémon stirring up trouble for arrests. The police put out an arrest, they get captured, they get the reward, then they are released in a few days.”

   “All in a week???”

   “All in a week.” Lombre confirmed, then leaned in closer. “And just so you’re aware, you’re the second one who’s asked for information.”

   “What?” Every nerve went on alert. Is someone onto us? “Who?”

   “A young Fennekin and Sliggoo.” Lombre replied, watching him with observant eyes. “They’re travelers who came looking for a guild.” Galahad drew a sharp breath. “What’s your connection to them?”

   “...teammate.” There was no point in lying. The Water-type was too observant to be fooled.

   “Teammates?” Lombre straightened, eyes widening. “They’re members of a team?”

   “She’s on my team, and he’s a Calling Pokémon.” Galahad leaned forward. Lombre swore under his breath. “What’s the matter?”

   “Oh Kyogre. The Fennekin fainted earlier, and was taken to the Guild Hall by Lickilicky. The Sliggoo wouldn’t let Lickilicky take her by himself, so he accompanied them.” Galahad froze. “Later, I found her food had been laced with sleeping powder. Lickilicky was interested in her...” Lombre didn’t get another word in, because Galahad had made a mad dash for the door, taking his and Morgana’s bags with him.

*~*~*

   Morgana woke to the crackling of fire. She gave a soft moan, her mind feeling like it had been scrambled like one of Ninetail’s potions. Wh-what happened? Her tail swished, and someone put a paw on her forehead. She relaxed, before a thought crossed her mind. The paw was too large, and too fury to belong to anyone she knew. And that can only mean... She stumbled to her paws, trying to get as far away as possible from the unknown Pokémon. Awaken! Awaken! Something hard smashed her face, and she recoiled, a soft whimper escaping her. A wall...must have run into a wall...

   “Calm down, little one. You’re safe now.” The words were meant to be comforting, but to Morgana, they were anything but. She didn’t know it well, but she recognized that voice. Finally forcing her eyes open, they confirmed what she already knew.

   The room was unfamiliar, but Morgana recognized a few objects from Spark’s collection. I’m in the guildmaster’s room. And in front of her...was Lickilicky. A low growl escaped her.

   “Be at peace.” The Licking Pokémon said, but she growled even more.

   “What am I doing here?”

   “Well, you fainted in the Seven Stays, and I brought you here for treatment.” The fake guildmaster waved a paw, but something didn’t settle with the Fennekin.

   “Where’s Sliggoo?” She didn’t see the Soft Tissue Pokémon anywhere in sight, and that rang a few warning bell.

   “Oh, no need to worry about him. You’ll have new friends soon!”

   “Pardon?”

   “I’ve accepted you as a member of Lickilicky’s Guild!” Her hackles rose.

   “No! I can’t do that! I won’t do that!”

   “Oh? Why not?” He seemed genuinely interested.

   “Because...” You’re a criminal and a cheat! I already belong to a guild-Ama-sama’s guild, and I belong to a team...Team Templar! “I can’t!” She yelled.

   “That’s too bad.” Lickilicky chuckled. “You see, once I accept a member to Lickilicky’s Guild, they can’t leave without my permission.” His tongue lolled out, and hung at his waist. Morgana flinched in disgust. I want to go back to the guild! I want to be with Galahad and Brendan! Where are they? “So you’re a member of Lickilicky’s Guild!”

   “Sss...Lickilicky...” Morgana jumped at the soft hiss behind her. It was an Ekans she had not noticed before, who had managed to sneak up on her. “Sss...”

   “Ah, Snap. As you can see, the newest member of the guild has woken up.” Lickilicky said pleasantly. “Snap will be your partner and teammate.”

   “I already have-No! I refuse!”

   “A pleasssure to meet you.” Snap ducked his head, even though his eyes said differently. He slithered towards Lickilicky, and leaned forward. “We’ve disposed of the SSSliggoo like you wanted.” The Ekans said without emotion, and something in Morgana snapped.

   “Flamethrower!” She screamed, flames pour from her mouth. Lickilicky had a lazy look on his face as he waved his paw, and the flames faded away. She choked. Something had pushed the flames down, preventing them from coming out. She tried again, with a less powerful Ember. But that wouldn’t emerge. Something different. “Hidden Power!!” Blue rings appeared around her, twirling toward Lickilicky. But he waved his paws, and the rings vanished as the flames had. Wh-What’s going on? She tried focusing, but the energy had simply died away. It won’t do as well...but... Green light began to gather, drawing strength from the nearby flames. It was drawn to her body, like iron to a magnet. “Solar...” she took a deep breath, feeling energy gather before releasing it. “...BEAM!!!” A ray of green-yellow light shot at Lickilicky, who stood waiting. But instead of blasting the Licking Pokémon away, Lickilicky laughed, the attack bouncing harmlessly off his stomach before his tongue lolled out, wrapping itself around Morgana.

   “You have potential.” Morgana wiggled against the pink mass that held her. “But you’re largely untrained.” The tip of his tongue touched her forehead, and she withered even more. “You’ll make a good addition to our guild.”

   “I won’t!” She yelled, disgusted by the limb wrapped around her body, binding her movements.

   “Lickilicky...” The Ekans spoke up. “There are intrudersssss...”

   “I know, Snap.” Lickilicky let Morgana drop to the ground, and she tried crawling away. “Watch this one. She’s got fire.” Morgana growled, miniature fires bursting to life around her. Lickilicky waved his paw, and the fire died again.

*~*~*

  To say that Brendan and Galahad were pissed would be an understatement. They were enraged, even Brendan, who rarely lost his temper for anything. On their way to the guild hall, they had discovered Sliggoo, tied up and knocked out in an alley, who had confirmed Lickilicky’s interest in Morgana. The Soft Tissue Pokémon’s condition had only added to their anger. NOBODY did something like that and got away with it. Especially when Morgana was involved. They stood in front of a small mob of Pokémon, who blocked the entrance to the guildmaster’s room. It was the only place Lickilicky would be, and with every possibility, Morgana would be there as well.

   “Intruders to Lickilicky’s Guild, leave at once.” One of the thugs threatened. “Or else we’ll call the police.”

   “Surely you’re jesting.” Galahad scoffed. “Bring out your leader.”

   “Hello friends!” A rich, deep voice said, and a pink blob emerged from the guildmaster’s room, making it’s way into the room they were standing in. Unfortunately for Galahad and Brendan, the door shut before they could get a look inside. “So, have you come to join my guild?”

   “Never.” Came Brendan’s curt reply. “Give us Morgana.”

   “Morgana?” He scratched his head, then laughed. “Oh, the Fennekin? I don’t think so. She’s a part of my guild now.”

   “Then prepare to fight.” Brendan and Galahad got into fighting stances.

   “How about we solve this like gentlemen?” Lickilicky held up his paws in a peacemaking gesture. “One Pokémon versus one Pokémon. Doesn’t that sound fair?” Galahad and Brendan shared a look. They had dealt with worse than anything Lickilicky could throw at them.

   “Who’s yours?” It was unlikely the Normal-type would be doing the actual fighting.

   “Atlas.” Both Crusaders stiffened at the name. A Gudurr stepped forward, cracking his knuckles.

   “So we meet again, little Psychic.” Galahad scowled. “I had a feeling I would be seeing you again.”

   “Brendan...?”

   “Easier than in the Fire Temple.” The Meditite assured the team leader, stepping forward to meet the challenge.

   “Begin!”

   “No hard feelings punk.” Atlas lunged at Brendan, who sidestepped the rush attack, and turned to examine his opponent. The Gurdurr was a little taller than he was, but all muscle. Not to be taken lightly.

   “Focus Energy!” Bright pillars of light surrounded Atlas, before he followed up with Brick Break. Brendan dodged with Feint, then followed up with a pair of rapid Bullet Punches. The --- Pokémon recoiled, nursing his bleeding nose. “Dammit!” But Brendan gave him to time to recover, using Bullet Punch again and again. Then all of a sudden, the energy he needed to power the attack died. What? He pulled back, staring down at his fists. What just happened?

   Something happened. Galahad’s eyes narrowed as he watched Brendan pull back. Something had stopped his attacks, and it wasn’t normal. Did his PP get depleted more quickly than usual? I need to watch closer. He leaned forward, focusing on the fight.

   “Something wrong? Because I’m just getting started.” Atlas lunged again, fists flying. Brendan dodged, then sunk a Thunder Punch into his stomach. Atlas smirked, purple light forming an orb that flew towards Brendan, who crossed his arms and protected himself with Detect. When Atlas lunged again with Chip Away, Brendan prepared to use Detect again, but nothing happened. Instead, he received a palm to the side of his face, knocking him aside. The thugs around them gave a yell, jeers filling the air.

   Something definitely happened. Galahad watched as Brendan picked himself up, spitting blood from his face. And it wasn’t because of a double-use Detect. Something is messing with his PP.

   “What’s wrong, little monk? Can’t do it? Or is the fight too much for you?” Brendan frowned, and then shook his head. He took a step forward, before vanishing. “Wha-” Brendan reappeared above Atlas, Thunder Punch making contact with his head. The Gudurr fell, and Brendan landed on the floor, holding himself with pride. There was a stunned silence in the guild.

   “Do you yield?” There was a silent fire to the Meditite’s navy eyes. He wanted to end the fight, but if he ended it without giving the chance to surrender...what would Flare say? What would Morgana say? That wasn’t who he was.

   “You think...you’ve won...?” Altas managed to spit on Brendan’s feet. The Meditate Pokémon took that as his answer.

   “Very well.” Brendan raised his fist, bright electricity crackling. Then it vanished, and all that hit Gudurr’s head was a normal fist. “...what?” Atlas gave a single laugh, fist aimed upward, but multicolored leaves shot towards him, forcing him to block the attack.

   “YOU!” His eyes landed on Galahad, who was in a stance that said ‘fight’. “Did you do that?”

   “Brendan.” Galahad said, preparing to summon Shihō. “Disabled. Lickilicky. Void deal.” Those four words were all that Brendan needed to figure it all out. He turned towards Lickilicky, robes swishing.

   “You cheated by interfering with the fight. You’ve forfeited.”

   “Att-” Atlas yelled, but Brendan’s finger came down on a pressure point, and the Gudurr was out like a light.

   “Get them.” Lickilicky ordered, and the thugs lunged forward. Brendan jumped into the air, as Galahad was surrounded by a blue glow identical to one around Lickilicky.

   “Trace complete! Shihō, come forth!” The Psychic-Blade appeared, and Galahad swung, catching the Pokémon surrounding him, knocking a few out of the loop.

   “Haha!” Lickilicky’s tongue lashed out, catching Brendan and flinging him into the wall with Power Whip. Spots swam in the Meditite’s vision. Too much damage...dammit...

   Then a pink glow surrounded him, and he could slowly feel his energy being restored. This feeling...

   “Galahad! Brendan!” He spotted a cream-colored Pokémon in the guildmaster’s doorway. Morgana! She’s safe!

   “Morgana!” Unfortunately, Lickilicky also noticed her.

   “How’d you get away from Snap, little one?” He asked in genuine surprise.

   “Nah!” She stuck her tongue out at him, stepping to the side so they could see a smoking Ekans. “He’s too slow!”

   “Well, I’ll have to assign you a quicker partner-”

   “NO!” Galahad yelled, as both he and Brendan charged the Licking Pokémon, whose tongue caught Morgana, binding her. Then he turned to the other two members of Team Templar. A wail filled the air, and Morgana screeched, struggling to block out the noise. When it was over, Brendan lay on the floor, twitching. Galahad swayed, but didn’t fall. He shook his head, and continued toward the startled Lickilicky.

   “Wha-?!” Galahad buried Shihō in Lickilicky’s stomach, and he screamed, dropping Morgana as he doubled over.

   “That was for Sliggoo.” The Emotion Pokémon dashed over to Morgana, giving her a quick once-over. Besides the slime that covered her and the bruise on her face, she appeared unhurt. “Did he do anything to you.” She shook her head vigorously. “Good. We need to retreat to where Sanimin and Heracles are.”

   “Sliggoo-” She feared the worse.

   “We found him. He’ll be fine.” He turned to grab Brendan, trusting Morgana to follow behind.

   “Gala!” He looked back, and received a faceful of tongue. But it was the power behind it that made him gasp. It was dark energy, that clung to him and didn’t let go, even when the appendage threw him into a wall.

   “Well well well, that was a shocker.” Lickilicky massaged his stomach, tongue recoiling. “I actually felt that one.”

   “Boss are you-”

   “It’s Guildmaster.” The Licking Pokémon snapped, holding something up in his paw. “Well, what’s this?” The light flashed off the gray stone, which had been polished to perfection. “I do believe this is an Everstone.”

   “Give it...back.” Galahad ordered, stumbling to his paws as a pink aura surrounded him. Lickilicky glanced to his left, where Morgana stood with her eyes closed. He grabbed her nape, disrupting her concentration, and Galahad sank to one knee as the Wish was interrupted.

   “The way you work...a team. Why didn’t I notice it before?” Lickilicky chuckled. “And to think you’ve recruited a mere child...for shame, to put a kit in such danger.” Morgana snarled, struggling against Lickilicky’s grip. “I’m assuming you’ve come from somewhere...? Perhaps from that guild that passed through earlier in the month...led by a Pikachu, I think.” The thugs who hadn’t been knocked out were approaching Brendan and Galahad, while another was dragging Snap from the guildmaster’s room. “Don’t worry, she’ll be safe here.”

   “No...” Dark energy surrounded Galahad’s paws, the beginning of a Shadow Ball. “Don’t you dare...You’ll pay...”

   “Disable, Disable, Disable, Disable.” Lickilicky waved his free paw, and the attack faded. “And just so the other one doesn’t cause any trouble...” he looked over at Brendan, who was slowly coming to, “Disable, Disable, Disable, Disable. There. Now if you’ll excuse me...I leave them in your paws.” He turned, but not before Morgana’s panicked eyes found Brendan’s, and walked back into Spark’s room.

   “I am done with this!” Morgana screeched, biting down on Lickilicky’s arm when he was closing the door, causing him to drop her. She dashed into the corner farthest away from him, pulling her Sacred Stick from her tail. It was her last resort. There were no available attacks and no ofuda to use. “Enraiha!” A flame appeared on the end. She twirled it in the air, forming a fiery circle. It was hard because she had to use both front paws to hold the stick, but it was the only option. Lickilicky watched curiously, unsure of what she was doing. “Kasai yakedo, kasai bakuhatsu, ikarino-en... Watashi wa hi no seirei o yobi, mae watashi wa eien no honō no sābantodesu! Soshite, watashi wa kono basho ni anata o shōkan shimasu! Kuru, Faiyā no Ya!”

   “Disable!” Lickilicky pointed at Morgana, feeling a jolt of fear for the first time. But the flame on the end of her stick didn’t falter. If anything, it burned brighter. Morgana began to draw a star, chanting each time it’s point hit the circle’s edge.

   “Ichi Nokoribi-Ni Honō-San Moeru-Shi Furea-Go Yakekoge!” She began a second star. “Roku Tanjō-Nana Meshi-Hachi Atsumarimasu-Kyuu Miemasu,” She glared at Lickilicky, who had advanced toward her. “Juu Kakeru!” She screamed, finishing the final star. It flashed, miniature circles appearing where the star points had touched the circle. They glowed, and then flaming embers shot out, burning toward Lickilicky in a furious rage. He dodged the first one, but even when it destroyed the wall behind him, the flaming arrow reemerged, targeting the Licking Pokémon with the vengeance of a homing missile.

   Morgana stumbled towards her bag, trusting the Arrows of Moltres to keep Lickilicky occupied. She was going to make him pay. The Disable was still in effect, but there were other ways. Reaching into her bag, she grabbed a small bell.

   “ARGH!” One of the Arrows had made contact, exploding against Lickilicky’s fur. It wasn’t as damaging as it could have been, but it forced him back into the wall, where the other Arrows had an easy target, exploding against him, forcing him into the wall. When the final Arrow found it’s mark, the wall shuddered, and gave out, a Lickilicky-shaped hole remaining. Morgana raised her bell, and began to chant, every intent of extracting payback.

*~*~*

   “Galahad...” Brendan muttered, and Galahad nodded once. They both felt the stifling energy recede, and in a fluid motion, both dropped to their knees, attacks activating as the Disable wore off. Brendan’s fist, as hard as steel, crunched the jaw of his captor, as Galahad’s attack caught his restrainer’s stomach. Both Pokémon doubled over, and a quick Thunder Punch and Shadow Ball made quick work of them. They were filled with energy.

   “Backtrack. Now.” Brendan nodded, and they spun, racing back towards the stairs. They had already gone a two floors down, and anything could have happened. As they ascended the first flight, they heard the sound of fighting.

   “Got caught, did you?” Heracles called. “We warned you about rushing in.”

   “Haan.” Brendan grumbled, aiming a well-timed Bullet Punch at one of the thugs who stumbled towards him. “Where’s Sanimin?”

   “Dealing with the ‘apprentices’. Where’s Morgana?” Sliggoo asked in concern, using Muddy Water against one of the weaker thugs.

   “Lickilicky’s got her!”

   “Then what are you doing here?!” Heracles scolded, throwing one opponent across the room with Arm Thrust. “Go get her!” The two Crusaders didn’t need to be told twice. Locating the stairs, they dashed up the staircase, emerging onto the guildmaster’s floor. They ignored the thugs lying unconscious on the floor, bursting through the door.

   “Morgana!” What they weren’t expecting to find was Lickilicky halfway buried under rubble from one of the walls, ten miniature fires burning in mid-air, and a wobbly Fox Pokémon who held a bell in her mouth. The bells fell to the ground with a soft tinkle.

   “He-Hello...” Morgana mumbled, before collapsing to the ground.

   “Morgana!!” They rushed forward, attacks dispersing.

   “Bren...Gala...” She gave a weak smile.

   “What did you do to him?”

   “Cursed...” She managed a giggle. “Every time he thinks...of...‘guild’...he’ll...” she giggled again, “lose all... fur...”

   “What?!” Galahad gasped, staring at the unconscious Normal-type. “You did what?!”

   “Hee...hee...” She giggled one last time, before her eyes drifted shut. Brendan glanced around.

   “She used Moltres’ Arrows.” He sighed, nodding towards the ten miniature flames. Galahad groaned.

   “Baka. The amount of energy it takes...”

   “Well, she succeeded. And she’s okay.” They both sighed in relief. “All that’s left is the rest of the guild to clear up.”

   “No need.” They looked up. Heracles, Sliggoo, and Sanimin entered the room, surveying the damage. Sanimin winced openly while Heracles withheld himself.

   “Spark’s gonna raise hell about that.” Sanimin pointed at the hole in the wall, but was ignored.

   “Everyone’s been thrown out except for him.” The Heracross nodded at Lickilicky, before his face became serious. “Sanimin and I will stay here and maintain the guild. You four go back, and tell Spark about the situation. He’ll decide what to do.”

   “Understood.” Brendan knelt next to Morgana and gently shook her as Galahad went to retrieve their bags, and replace his Everstone. “Are you up for walking?”

   “...wuzzat...?”

   “Silly kit.” Brendan smiled, hoisting her onto his back. He nodded to Galahad, and the team plus Sliggoo left the room, ready to make the trip back to Stargaze as quick as possible. Hopefully Uki would give them a ride back...they weren’t THAT heavy.

*~*~*

   Spark and Ama listened to their report in silence. When it was done, Ama drained the last of her tea before speaking.

   “This is good timing.”

   “Whatever.” Spark scowled. Ama turned to Team Templar and Sliggoo to explain.

   “It’s been decided that Spark will take his guild back to Sparkgaze City, to maintain the flow of information between the guilds. We need to hold every city we can.” Her face split into a weary smile. “Otherwise, good job. Get some rest now.”

   “Thank you Kamee Ama.” Brendan bowed, and Morgana and Sliggoo mumbled similar thanks before dragging themselves across the room. All of the other apprentices were asleep, even the ones from Spark’s guild. Sliggoo fell asleep next to Gligar, a member of Spark’s guild, while Team Templar settled into the spot they can claimed for the past week, right next to Jason and Trent of Team Prime. Morgana curled into a ball and was out like a light. Brendan sat meditating, while Galahad stared at the wall, deep in thought.

   “I want to send her back with Spark’s guild.” He finally said, looking at Morgana’s sleeping form. “It’s safer for her.”

   “Maybe, but don’t bring that up or she’ll kill you.” Brendan replied quietly without opening his eyes. “I’d want to do the same, but...” I know better than to even broach that subject, “she’s stronger than she appears.” He finished.

   “That’s true...” Galahad was silent before a grin cracked across his face. “I wonder how Spark will react to the hole Morgana put in his wall.”