A/N: It's been a while. A lot has happened and I'm happy to say I'm back. This story never left my mind and since I have more time now, I can continue the story! It's been a while so I had to read previous chapters in order to refresh myself. there's a lot to be done indeed!

I'll be prioritizing getting this arc done as well as revising previous chapters a bit but the latter is more important.

This chapter mainly focuses on Gardevoir's side, not much with Scorbs but I want to expand the universe a bit.

Enjoy:3

-Lvl 1-

"Aaarrrggghhh!" The mighty roar reverberated throughout the lower floors of the mystery dungeon, causing pillars of fire to erupt from the ground and strike all the wild Pokémon nearby. Typhlosion let out a huff of exhaustion after unleashing the powerful move known as eruption. Suddenly, he felt a warm, comforting hand on his shoulder. He turned to see his wife, Cinderace, standing by his side, with Gardevoir not far behind.

"Listen, I understand your concern, but we can't let panic get the best of us. It's important that we conserve our energy and trust in Scorbunny and Treecko to be okay," Cinderace reassured the enraged Pokémon, embracing him tightly. Observing the tender scene, Gardevoir reflected on the events that had led them to this critical moment.

Gardevoir possessed exceptional skills as a navigator, a role designated to select Pokémon within the prestigious Scholar's Guild. Navigators were renowned for their ability to meticulously analyze Mystery Dungeons from a distance, a talent possessed by only a handful of Pokémon. Gardevoir was a shining example of one such capable and proficient Pokémon, able to effectively decipher the intricacies of even the most perplexing dungeons.

As a seasoned scholar, Gardevoir had her hands full with numerous tasks. Amidst the chaos outside the entrance of the dungeon, she understood the urgency of calming the distressed children. With a gentle yet firm approach, she implored the youngsters to quiet down, stressing the importance of their cooperation in rescuing Scorbunny and Leaf, who were trapped in the depths of the dungeon. The children, understanding the gravity of the situation, rallied together as a team, doing their utmost to assist in the search for their missing classmates.

Gardevoir focused her energy, shutting her eyes and achieving a state of serene concentration. Gradually, she lifted off the ground, suspended in mid-air. The waves of psychic energy emanating from her were so potent that even Pokémon lacking sensitivity to such energies could feel their presence. With each pulse, Gardevoir skillfully analyzed the intricate layers and depths of the mystery dungeon.

Fortunately, this particular dungeon had recently formed, meaning that the wild Pokémon attracted to it was relatively weak. Traps were non-existent, and beneficial items were scattered generously throughout. Most importantly, the dungeon boasted a designated safe zone, providing a much-needed refuge for both the trapped Pokémon

With a clear plan in mind, Gardevoir swiftly located the missing Pokémon within the dungeon and established a telepathic connection with Leaf. Through their mental link, she provided precise instructions and words of encouragement to guide him toward the safe zone.

Relieved with their communication, Gardevoir emerged from her meditative state and led the group of children to safety, Gardevoir directed them towards a nearby tavern. Inside, she found Kangaskhan, the tavern owner, who she trusted to ensure the safety and well-being of the children while she took responsibility for reporting the situation to the town's peacekeepers.

"Ugh! This is the worst!" Riolu groaned as she banged her head on the table. Kangaskhan was checking the children for any injuries. Baby Kangaskhan also helped by playing with the children to help them keep their minds off the event.

"I hope they're doing alright." commented as he sat beside Riolu and Scraff. "We feel so useless! and Ms. Gardevoir is doing her best to rescue them and we're here doing nothing!" Riolu complained again.

"I know that feeling. Leaf and Scorbunny are our friends. Let's just do our part and stay put, Riolu, we're only kids, let's not make things more complicated." Zorua and Scraff place their paw on Riolu's lap to reassure her.

"Ugh! This is the worst!" Riolu groaned with frustration, her head hitting the table in annoyance. Meanwhile, Kangaskhan diligently examined the children for any injuries, providing comfort and care. Baby Kangaskhan joined in, playfully engaging with the children to help distract their minds from the unsettling events.

Sitting beside Riolu and Scraff, a concerned Zorua sighed, "I hope Leaf and Scorbunny are doing alright. It's hard feeling so helpless while is doing everything she can to rescue them." Riolu voiced her frustration once again.

"I understand how you feel, Riolu. Leaf and Scorbunny are our friends too, Leaf yes but for Scorbunny? At least I think so," Zorua replied, placing a reassuring paw on Riolu's lap. "But we have to remember that we're just kids. We need to trust in 's abilities and do our part by staying put. Let's not complicate things further."

Scraff joined in, placing his paw alongside Zorua's, offering additional reassurance to Riolu. Together, they remained united, determined to support Gardevoir's efforts and find solace in the knowledge that they were doing what they could.

"Riolu!" The tavern door swung open, revealing Lucario rushing towards Riolu. Lucario enveloped her in a tight hug, but Riolu struggled to break free. "Dad! I'm fine! You're embarrassing me! Act more like a proper captain!" Riolu managed to wriggle out of her father's grasp, placing her hands on her hips.

The children in the tavern giggled, causing Riolu's cheeks to turn red as she muttered, "Idiot," under her breath. Lucario sighed apologetically, "I was just worried. Gardevoir burst into my office and said there was an emergency. She asked me to find out what happened to you, as she is running short on time. She mentioned she dropped you off in the tavern, what happened?"

As more peacemakers arrived at the scene, Scraff smirked at Riolu and Zorua, saying, "Looks like it's our time to be of use, eh?" The three nodded and proceeded to tell the peacekeepers everything they knew.

"Everyone, secure the entrance to the dungeon! Ensure that no one enters the mystery dungeon!" Lucario's voice boomed with authority. The peacemakers responded with a chorus of "Yes, sir!" and immediately sprinted towards the newly formed dungeon to carry out their orders.

After hearing the detailed account of what had occurred, Lucario's concern deepened. Just as he was about to leave, Riolu grabbed hold of his hand, stopping him in his tracks.

"Dad! Scorbs and Leaf are our friends! We won't cause any trouble, but we need to support them! Please, let us come with you!" Riolu pleaded, her eyes filled with determination. All the children in the room looked expectantly at the peacemaker captain, their desire to help evident.

Lucario paused for a moment, weighing the risks against their determination. With a sigh, he finally relented, knowing that the children's intentions were genuine.

"Alright," he said, nodding. "You can come with me, but remember, this is a dangerous mission. Stay close and follow my lead. We'll do our best to support our friends and keep everyone safe."

It was another uneventful day at work, leaving Typhlosion feeling bored and restless. However, his mood quickly shifted when he spotted two figures sprinting towards him. As they approached, his excitement swiftly turned into concern as he recognized his wife Cinderace, and his long-time friend Gardevoir. Typhlosion felt a sense of foreboding, knowing deep down that this encounter would not end well.

"Typhlosion! Scorbunny! There's trouble!" Cinderace gasped for breath, attempting to explain the urgency. "It's been ages, old friend. A mystery dungeon has just appeared in the forest, trapping Scorbunny and his companion Leaf. They desperately need rescuing, and I can't do it alone. I need both of you by my side," Gardevoir pleaded.

A sinking feeling gnawed at Typhlosion's gut. This situation seemed more dire than he initially thought. Glancing at his partner Bisharp, who had heard the situation, silently nodded in agreement, Typhlosion swiftly took hold of the bag Cinderace carried and sprinted towards the forest.

"YOU TOLD THEM WHAT!" Typhlosion's voice echoed with anger as the trio hurried toward the forest. Gardevoir had shared the details of the situation with Cinderace and Typhlosion along the way.

"You know how challenging it is to locate a missing Pokémon within the depths of a dungeon. We may end up on the same floor, but there's no guarantee that Scorbunny and Treecko are in the same dimension. However, a safe zone remains constant and it's only a few floors away," Gardevoir attempted to justify her decision, but Typhlosion responded with a piercing glare.

"Typhlosion! Have some faith in Gardevoir! It's the best course of action. Normally, it's advisable to stay put when lost inside a mystery dungeon. Fortunately, Gardevoir is a skilled navigator who thoroughly assessed the dungeon's dangers before proposing her plan," Cinderace chimed in, trying to console his distressed partner.

"You're right Cinderace, Sorry Gardevoir.." Typhlosion sighed, attempting to clear his mind.

The peacekeepers diligently monitored the entrance to the mystery dungeon, ensuring no alternative access points were available and preventing any additional Pokémon from entering. A bustling crowd of villagers had assembled, eager to witness the commotion and assess the situation.

Lucario took charge with a commanding voice. "I want a status report," he ordered. Promptly, a Staraptor stepped forward and reported, "The area has been secured, sir. No other entrances were discovered." Lucario nodded in acknowledgment, expressing his approval, and directed the peacekeeper to assist in managing the curious onlookers. Saluting dutifully, the Staraptor set off on his assigned task.

"Dad, what do we do now?" Riolu questioned with concern. Lucario smiled and responded, "Riolu, we aren't trained for rescue missions. Our best course of action is to report our findings to the Retrievers and allow them to handle it." Scraff interrupted, curious to learn more. "Retrievers? What are they?" he asked. Lucario smiled again and explained, "Retrievers are Pokémon in the Scholar's Guild who specialize in retrieving items and Pokémon within dungeons. They are the ones who venture into the dangerous depths, while Scholars focus on research and progress."

"But..." Lucario continued, his face filled with concern. "It could potentially take weeks for them to arrive. The scholar's guild doesn't have a nearby base, so they will have to travel all the way from the main city, which is quite a distance from here."

"Oh no! I've heard that a Pokémon cannot stay inside a mystery dungeon for too long, or else they will become wild!" Zorua exclaimed, earning a nod of agreement from Lucario. "Yes, without proper training, a week inside the dungeon can revert a Pokémon back to their wild nature. However, since Scorbunny and Leaf are young, it may happen even sooner." The news caused a shockwave among everyone, leading to an outpouring of uproar.

Lucario should have restrained himself from speaking. He had momentarily forgotten that he was dealing with young children. " is an experienced scholar. I'm confident she already has a plan to rescue Leaf and his friend," Lucario whispered, crouching down to reassure his daughter. Though he was uncertain of the outcome, he knew they had to place their trust in Gardevoir. There was still a glimmer of hope.

A brief silence was broken when Staraptor approached Lucario. "Sir, has arrived with Typhlosion and Cinderace," the flying-type Pokémon informed him. Lucario felt comforted by Gardevoir's return, but he couldn't help but wonder why she was accompanied by Scorbunny's parents.

"Ah, ! I'm glad you're here. We have secured the area. The report states that there are no other entrances as well," Lucario reported, turning his attention to Gardevoir. "Thanks for the help, Captain. We'll take it from here," Gardevoir said as Cinderace and Typhlosion grabbed something from their bag.

"If I may, in good conscience, I cannot allow you to let those two inside. I am a Peacemaker, and it is our job to protect civilians from danger," Lucario said. He knew the children needed to be saved, but taking an inexperienced Pokémon inside a dungeon would do more harm than good.

"We may be civilians now, Lucario, but once a Retriever, always a Retriever," Typhlosion grinned as he and his wife found what they were looking for. It was their old armband from the time they were in the Scholar's Guild. The children's eyes widened as they got to meet yet another Pokémon from the guild, but it was Lucario and the nearby peacemakers who were most shocked. "You're a Retriever!?" Staraptor yelled. He couldn't believe the village goofball was actually from the guild.

"We were, and you guys never asked!" Typhlosion corrected and joked a bit, but his smile faded as he pleaded with Lucario. "Please, my friend. We need to rescue them." Typhlosion received no response, but the Peacemakers backed away from guarding the entrance. "Go. You are their only hope," Lucario said as the crowd and children cheered them on when they entered the dungeon.

Lucario smiled as the Retrievers vanished into the dungeon. "Remind me to never make fun of Typhlosion again, sir. I might end up getting my butt kicked," Staraptor commented as Lucario chuckled, lightening the mood a bit.

Finally, hope was on its way.