Pokémon Mystery Dungeon: New Dawn Heirloom

by DaGamestar

Ivan dreams of becoming a great rescue team leader but has found himself working for the notorious Team Nightscale. He wants to do good for Alma Isle, but things aren't going his way. The best he can do is persuade his boss into having Nightscale track down a lost child. Little does Ivan know that he'll soon stumble into an opportunity to make his rescuing dreams come true.

25. A Mega Mentorship

Chapter 25: A Mega Mentorship

The sun, caressed by silvery clouds, shone from a vivid blue sky over the dry forests around Lithiore. There was a peaceful silence, interrupted only by the occasional shout of an unseen city resident enjoying the weekend, or the clanging of mining machinery, in the distance. A cool breeze soothed the sunbaked warmth of the golden wilderness, causing the wind chimes of Pneuma's cabin to sing a metallic melody.

The Lucario sat atop a rock on the dirt road stretching past their home. Their legs were bowed and crossed, though only meeting at the ankles due to the way they bent.

Ivan sat on another stone beside Pneuma, his legs crossed in a still awkward but more convincing manner. Both Pokémon had their eyes closed, their arms outstretched, and their mega stone amulets around their necks.

"Deep breaths, clear the mind. Deep breaths, calm the soul," the Lucario sighed, their chest rising and falling.

Ivan nodded subtly, his eyes still shut. "Clear mind. Calm soul. I think I feel more attuned with myself already!"

Lady, Galena, and Inti sat on rocks across from them. The Goodra's head and eyelids drooped.

"Thanks for inviting us to watch beet head's training, Pneuma, but I didn't expect to watch you guys meditate," she groaned. "Isn't there something more interesting to teach?"

The Lucario shook their head. "It may not be exciting, but meditation is crucial. One must practice mind over body to keep their instincts under control during mega evolution."

"It looks relaxing! It's even making me a little sleepy," Lady remarked, her head beginning to fall too.

Inti's wings twitched as they basked in the sunlight. "At least it isn't a strenuous activity. And there's a pleasant warmth today."

"I like hearing positivity from you, Mister Sunny Day, but I wish it wasn't about the most boring thing you can imagine."

"After the insanity of recent missions, I thought you would appreciate the calm," he remarked with a frown. "You have your taste in recreation, and I have mine."

Pneuma's ears flattened. " I did this for months when I was training. I cannot stress the importance of controlling your mind and body. It means the difference between a seamless transformation and an overload of stimuli. It's anything but bor… anything but…"

The Lucario's mouth slowly stretched open. Suddenly they let out a loud yawn. Ivan opened his eyes, and the others' all locked onto the mentor.

Pneuma held out their paws in concession. "Okay, fine, I'm getting bored too. That's enough meditation for now."

The Lucairo put their feet onto the ground before forcing themselves up with a groan. They then turned to Ivan and grinned. "After all, I've got a new student under my wing. My first student, actually. I'll admit I'm rearing to see how you battle."

"Battle? Now we're talking," Galena said, snapping out of her trance.

The Grovyle smiled before slipping off his rock. "Oh, sure! I wouldn't mind a battle. I just hope I have what it takes to keep up with a champion fighter."

"You'll do great, Ivy!" Lady encouraged. "Especially if you use your mega evolution!"

Pneuma's grin shrunk. "Ah… About that. I should probably get a feel for his abilities first. A showdown between two mega-evolved combatants might be a bit much for his senses."

"That's fine. I trust your judgment, Pneuma," Ivan agreed before walking up to face the Lucario. "I'd be happy to battle with you!"

They patted the Grovyle on the shoulder. "You say that, but be warned, student. Just because I'm training you doesn't mean I'll go easy!"

Lady, Inti, and Galena left their rocks and moved aside. The Grovyle and Lucario walked to opposite sides of the road before locking eyes, determination plastered on their faces.

'I'm about to trade blows with a professional,' Ivan thought. 'I'd better give it everything I've got!'

The two exchanged stares before Pneuma stomped a foot. It ignited and was immediately engulfed in flame, prompting surprised looks from their spectators.

"When I kick a rock into the atmosphere, we start!" the Lucario commanded.

Ivan tensed up in anticipation, his leaves shifting. After a moment of scanning, Pneuma stepped forward and let out a savage yell. They swung their flaming foot, which collided with the rock and caused it to fly over the tree line.

"Show me what you're made of!" Pneuma cried, their fire snuffing itself out.

Ivan dashed forward, ducking his head and throwing his arms back, streamlining his body like a missile heading for the Lucario.

Pneuma ran forward too, their footsteps rapid and thundering, kicking up dust. The Lucario swung their arm, aiming for Ivan's exposed ribs.

The Grovyle had a second to react, veering but taking a hard strike to the shoulder. He winced and skidded before whirling around. Pneuma did the same, though rebounding more gracefully.

"Pretty fast reflexes!" the Lucario shouted in approval. As they approached again they held out a fist, from which frigid mist began to emanate. Their paw was quickly enveloped in swirling blue energy, their knuckles icing over. "Let's see how you handle close combat, with a type disadvantage thrown in!"

Ivan's eyes widened. He already felt the stinging chill on his scales from a short distance. "I'm not a newbie. I know to watch out for super effective moves!"

Pneuma threw a frigid punch, aiming for Ivan's head. The Grovyle threw his arms up, leaves sharp and slashing. He deflected the punch, his blades cleaving blue fur from the Lucario's arm. The mist around their paw dissipated. Ivan reeled back slightly, the force of the attempted strike still enough to offset his footing.

The Lucario gritted their teeth. "Got a bit of insurance with those leaves I see. But can you guard against this!?"

They spun around, winding up a kick. Their leg ignited before they threw a swift, blazing roundhouse.

Ivan shot his hands out to block, but the leg slammed into them, sending him back and nearly knocking him off balance. He yelped, the nerves of his newly charred palms screaming.

From the side, the rest of Brightscale watched intently, their eyes glued to the battle.

"This is getting good," Galena said, crossing her arms. "I thought Ivan would be flat on his ass by now."

Lady shook her head. "He's so talented, he'll give it his all!" She floated off her rock and threw her arms out. "You can do it Ivy! Show Pneuma you're a great fighter!"

"He is cunning and slippery. I-In a good way, I mean. I just hope those super effective attacks don't injure him," Inti remarked.

Galena shrugged. "He's good, I can't deny that. But I still would bet twenty Plates he's gonna get his leafy butt handed to him."

"A somewhat heartless wager," the Druddigon sighed. "But we'll have to see."

They went back to observing Ivan and Pneuma, who began to sidle in a circle. The Grovyle looked them up and down, his heart pounding as he prepared for their next move.

'Squaring up against a champion is exhilarating. I don't know how they think,' he thought. 'Can't look away for a second or I'm in for a world of hurt. If only I knew when they'd—Ah!'

Suddenly Pneuma kicked off their feet, barreling toward Ivan. The Grovyle took a deep breath and leaped to the side causing the Lucario to change their course in pursuit.

Ivan puffed out his cheeks. Flickering purple flames escaped his lips before he opened his mouth, turning his head to spray fire around.

Pneuma attempted to veer but the fire lashed their shoulder like a whip, burning it and singing their fur. The Lucario seethed and hopped back in case of a follow-up attack.

"Not bad, Ivan. You're forcing my paw, time for my specialt y!" the Lucario declared before cupping their paws at their side. They moved their paws away from each other, and between them appeared a small blue orb of light. It quickly grew in size, becoming a large ball of radiating energy.

The Grovyle's eyes went wide. 'There's that Aura Sphere. Will they turn it into a Bone Club again or—? Uh oh!"

Pneuma turned their hips before unwinding them and throwing their arms forward. The energy sphere was launched toward Ivan, who looked on with dread.

"That's not a club!" Ivan yelped as he tried to spring away. The orb barely missed him, flying behind and colliding with the ground. The sphere exploded, blasting dust and blue energy.

Ivan shouted as some of the energy struck his back, knocking him off his feet, his body forced into a downward tilt. All he could see was a blur of blues, greens and browns. The Grovyle pushed his arms down just before he hit the ground, stopping him from slamming into it face-first. However, a stinging sensation shot through his hands.

Ivan lay on his stomach, groaning. Pain shot through his back and arms. After taking a deep breath he pushed himself onto his feet, his spine crackling. The Grovyle blinked until Pneuma came back into focus.

The Lucario chuckled and walked up to Ivan. "Might have overdone it there. I think that's a good stopping point, I learned a lot about you… but more importantly, are you alright?"

"Could be better," the Grovyle murmured as he rubbed his back. "May need to see my chiropractor. Otherwise, I'll be fine with some potions and burn salves."

"Just make sure to save a salve for me," they joked, gesturing to the blackened fur on their shoulder.

Galena clapped before waddling over. "Way to go, Pneuma. Looks like I owe myself twenty Plates. Oh, and good job too, Ivan."

"Thanks for the support Galena," he sighed before his lips gave way to a weary smile."Though I can't blame you for thinking it would be hard to win against an undefeated battler."

Lady fluttered up and over the pair. "You both were incredible! The passion, the energy, the suspense—what a delightful thrill!"

"You really are a thrillseeker, huh?" Pneuma asked, grinning at her. "Ah, there's that strange red spot on your aura flaring up again. Deep down, you must be trouble. Kind of like how I used to be."

Her husband soon joined the rest, a concerned look on his face. "You say she's trouble, but she didn't thrash someone on their first day of training."

"I'll admit, I could've kept that Aura Sphere as a last resort," they conceded with a shrug. "But it gives me an idea of his limits, just as much as his attacks give me an idea of his strengths."

Ivan's cheeks reddened. "I hope you don't find I have too many limits… but your attacks are something else. That Aura Sphere is really intense! How do you get it that powerful?"

"The secret of an Aura Sphere is no secret at all. It's all in your, well, aura," Pneuma explained, standing taller. "A Lucario's is normally connected with someone they care about through auras. The stronger the bond, the stronger the potential. And my Aura Sphere is especially potent because I live with the Pokémon I'm bonded with!"

Lady gasped. "Your aura is connected to Hyacinth's? That's so romantic!"

"Yep. We're quite literally soulmates," they said, blushing. "Though because of that common knowledge, opponents can see it coming a mile away. That's one of my limitations. It's why Lucario also fashion their aura energy into a melee weapon. Fighting is about staying on your toes and learning to work with your weaknesses and your strengths."

"I think I see your point. A Grovyle's pretty nimble, but I can't always rely on my reflexes, for example," Ivan agreed. "I'm actually pretty clumsy sometimes."

Galena rolled her eyes. "What? You, clumsy? Never even noticed."

"That's good to know. In spite of that, I see a lot of potential, Ivan. It's clear you've trained with discipline. Discipline is an important asset to a user of mega evolution," Pneuma remarked. "And there's no better way to hone your self-control than my duking it out with the best there is. A.K.A., me."

Ivan laughed. "I don't doubt it! If you're this strong without mega evolution, I can only imagine how powerful you are while transformed."

"Be careful not to give them too much praise. A mentor with a big head will produce the same result in you," Inti interjected before meeting Pneuma's eyes. "Now that that battle is over, would you mind calling for a break? I feel that Ivan deserves one."

The Lucario nodded. "I think one is due, so we'll take five. Taking a break is working with one's limits, after all. Though with enough time and practice, fighting will start to feel like recreation."

"That sounds exhausting. Practicing battling just so we could join a rescue team was quite the endeavor," the Druddigon remarked.

Galena shrugged. "I get where they're coming from though. I had to train my ass off with my big bro to get strong. It was day after day of honing my moves and working up my stamina. It's second nature now, to get it in gear for battle. Then again, I have some pretty big limits even after all that time. I still get winded if I have to run too much. Just the reality of being a Goodra."

"And a big sturdy Goodra has different limits than a little Beautifly!" Lady offered. "I fly high because I get knocked down easily if I'm hit hard enough. Luckily my friends and hubby are there to help me in battle!"

"I see! So to master mega evolution, I have to be my own friend and rival!" Ivan said, a glow of inspiration on his face as he turned to Pneuma. "I need to know what works for me. What do you do to work with yourself?"

The Lucario scratched their chin. "I train regularly and use fighting as a restorative means, to get out energy or frustration. And when I tire of training, I meditate. When I tire of meditating… admittedly, I often hit the bottle. You know, drinking. Buuuut I've been getting away from that… mostly. I've found myself among less than great company, like that big-mouth Gordie. But really it's because Hyacinth worries for me when I go out. I'm trying to take that burden off her."

"It seems you two care very deeply for each other. I can appreciate that," Inti remarked with an impressed look.

His wife's eyes glimmered. "You make her sound so special to you!"

"Yeah. Wish someone looked at me the way you look at her," Galena agreed.

Pneuma smiled, their tail beginning to sway. "Special doesn't begin to describe it. She's the best thing that's ever happened to me. I plan to marry her someday, if she'll have me. She's my best friend and some of the only true family I have."

"Eeeeeeeeeeeeek! I wish you both the best! You're a wonderful couple!" the Beautifly squealed.

Inti looked at his spouse tenderly. "A lot of this mega evolution and fighting talk has been lost on me, but I understand love very well. I felt the same way about my wife before we married."

Upon noticing her husband's look, Lady flew back and into his arms, the two embracing.

"That's awesome, Pneuma," Ivan said, a smile overtaking his face too. "I hope to have a relationship like that one day." His expression shrunk a little "I guess we don't know too much about you yet, besides your relationship and you being a Relic Seeker. You say she's part of your only family. What do you mean, if it's not too personal?"

The Lucario's tail stilled and they gritted their teeth. "I… can answer that, but I'd be rambling for a bit."

"We're on break, right?" Galena asked. "We have time for you to spill the tea."

Pneuma tapped their foot. "Very well. When I was a child, I lived here in Lithiore with my parents, my mom a Lucario and my Dad a Cinderace—hence why I know Blaze Kick. Growing up with them… sucked. My mom was neurotic, my dad was cold. Both were strict and unpleasant. I didn't have any friends because they scared off every kid that considered hanging out with me."

"Oh geez. I've never thought about what it would be like to grow up like that," Ivan remarked, his head leaf drooping. "Was it really that bad?"

"It was pretty bad, but I still had a roof over my head. My parents were Seekers too, and they ran a museum full of old relics. No mega stones or anything of importance, mostly junk curated after years of expeditions. Almost everything had a fake backstory as part of the whole history cover-up thing. I hated the museum, because I was forced to help out. Felt like a prison I couldn't escape. Except… on weekends, we'd get a carriage to the next town over to see my granddad, Anselm Valko."

Their smile reappeared. "My granddad was the best. Warm, kind, and he always had the best stories. He was a Seeker too, got my mom into it. He would talk about his adventures and make sweets. I admired him like crazy. In lieu of any real friends, my first aura bond was with him."

"That reminds me of me and my dad," Ivan remarked with a nostalgic look. "He was generous and loving, but also heroic. Pretty much the perfect role model. I can more than relate to looking up to someone like that."

Galena shook her head. "Rough deal. Family's the reason I escaped childhood with sanity and self-esteem. But your granddad sounds awesome at least. And baking? That's pretty based."

"Oh yeah, he was my hero. Made me want to be an explorer just like him, much to my parents' dismay. They wanted me in the museum," they explained before sighing. "Unfortunately, I didn't get to know him too long. He… died when I was still a kid. Heart attack, real sudden too."

Lady gasped. Her antennae drooped. "I'm so sorry Pneuma… That must have felt terrible."

"You have no idea. That night I woke up in a cold sweat from an intense nightmare—but it was more than just a nightmare. It felt like a part of my soul had been ripped out. Technically it had. It was an empty feeling, one a pup like me couldn't understand until I heard the news."

Ivan looked down. "Hollow… Yeah, it felt that way for a while when my dad died. I'm really sorry to hear that."

"I'm sure he's baking cookies in the Beyond," Galena offered. "Even still, that must've sucked. Losing someone so important, unable to fully understand. And it had to be pretty lonely."

Their ears flattened. "It was painfully lonely. Just me and my grieving parents, and did I mention my mom was neurotic? Yeah, didn't get much moral support from her. Fortunately though, It wasn't long until things began to look up."

"Oh? Did you make a friend?" Lady asked.

The Lucario's ears shot back up. "Did I ever. A couple weekends later, I begged my dad to give me something to do. He took me to a local playground… where I met a Trubbish girl named Hyacinth."

"So you two had known each other for quite some time," Inti remarked with a look of surprise.

"Oh yeah. You think we're inseparable now? You should have seen us then. Every weekend I'd force my dad to take me to that playground and we'd play for hours. It drove my parents crazy—they weren't exactly the most respectful about her. In private they said terrible things, complained about how gross she and her parents were. Luckily they didn't say it to their faces, thank Arceus for antidote pills, or they would have. I would've really been friendless."

Lady fanned her wings excitedly. "There's nothing better than spending time with someone you treasure!"

"Y-Yes, what my darling said," Inti agreed, the corners of his mouth twitching upward. "That story reminds me not only of Lady and I, but of how I met my best friend back in Stonethrow."

Galena put a hand on her hip. "Serves your folks right. Hope that having to be tolerant taught them some sense."

"I wish I could say it did… but for years they grinned and bore it. But I was the happiest I'd ever been. It felt amazing, having a real friend who cared about me."

Ivan scratched the back of his head. "I'll admit, I'm kind of jealous. Not that I didn't have friends, but I don't know if I ever had such a close bond with any particular person. Until my teammates, that is. Maybe books filled that role..."

"Then you know how I felt, before Hyacinth," Pneuma remarked. "If it's any consolation, that wasn't the end of my loneliness. My parents decided one day the museum wasn't making enough money. Tourists came in, but Lithiore folks are used to seeing remnants of history. So, without a word of input from their child, they packed our things and forced us to move to Arelport. I begged for us not to go, but of course I was just being hysterical ."

"They dragged you to another town without an ounce of sympathy?" Galena asked, her mouth falling open. "Wow. Real pricks. Makes me glad my family stayed in Corsai. My mom's a real business type, so if it'd been profitable, I could've seen us moving."

"Moving isn't so bad… but you do have to say goodbye to a lot of people you care about," Lady said, shrinking slightly.

"That was the tough part, yeah. Upon leaving with barely more than a quick goodbye to Hyacinth and her family, I felt the same heartbreak I had when I lost my granddad. Turns out I had aura bonded with her. Ripped me apart all over again," they sighed.

Ivan frowned. "That's awful. You two met again in the end, but still, someone you loved got taken away Again… I know how that feels. What happened from there? How was Arelport?"

"It was fine—it was just the same old story. The museum got more business, but it didn't mean more friends. My parents were still psychos, so the locals didn't adore us. And I still had to work my tail off for the museum, that became my actual job for years. Eventually I was in my twenties, working there. I thought I'd learn to feel happier as years passed, but it never got less lonely," the Lucario explained before shrugging.

"I would hate to feel so alone for so long," Lady remarked before her antennae shot up. "Ooh! But now you're not alone! So something must have happened for the better!"

Pneuma stood a little taller. "Yes, eventually. It became fed up with spending all day dusting off the relics I'd seen all my life. I decided I needed a change—so I stormed up to my parents one day and demanded to become a Relic Seeker!"

"That's good at least! I'm sure your parents were at least kind of honored you wanted to follow in their footsteps," Ivan remarked, gesturing to the Lucario.

Inti raised a brow at him. "I doubt that. They said that their parents weren't fond of the idea."

"Well, I try to be optimistic when it comes to family. Besides, most people can change if they're approached the right way," the Grovyle rebutted.

"My parents weren't most people," Pneuma groaned. "But Ivan is right, after arguing and lecturing, they realized it could be seen as quite the compliment… outwardly, within Relic Seekers' circles. When a Seeker gets inducted under another's mentorship, that newcomer is called their heir. The mentor gets an image boost from that. So my parents finally accepted my wishes—with a catch. I had to choose who I would honor as their heir. That was tricky, because neither of them deserved it."

Galena rubbed her chin. "Quite a conundrum. It would be hard to choose between my parents, and I love those guys. Can't imagine choosing between two deadbeats is any easier."

"But maybe they realized how big of an honor it would be, and it would mean a lot to them!" Lady suggested.

Pneuma gazed into Lady's expectant eyes. "You know, that hopefulness is infectious, almost makes me believe it could have been true… but I'm sorry to disappoint all of us. Heir or no heir, my parents were insufferable. I felt increasing pressure to choose—My father, who ran the museum and would sometimes take me places… or my mother, who would never stop bitching if I didn't pick her. And one night, I chose. I realized who I loved the most, whose legacy I should honor." They took a deep breath in before clutching their chest and looking down.

"I chose… my grandfather, Anselm Valko."

Lady fluttered higher. "That's so sweeeeet! He loved you so much, it only makes sense you picked him!"

"I should have expected that," Ivan chuckled before nodding in approval. "Do right by family, and they'll cherish you and carry on the good things you've done…. even when you're gone."

"And I perfectly understand not wanting to associate with a distant parent," Inti murmured. He let out a low, restrained growl. "I don't mention him often, but my father was like that. He lingered but wasn't truly there. Yet when he came by, he would think himself my role model."

"Huh. Didn't know that, big guy," Galena remarked before putting a hand on the Druddigon's shoulder. "That's tough. Let me know if you wanna talk about that sometime."

"I'll consider the offer, but likely not," he said flatly.

Pneuma rubbed their temples. "Then you'd get how much of a slap in the face my parents saw it as when I told them, Inti. Getting piercings, sneaking out to bars, dating around to see what my preference was—which turned about to be no preference—none of that had made them as livid as this did. Mad enough to throw me out into the night. They cursed me out while I scrambled for my possessions on the lawn and ran off."

Brightscale fell silent. They looked at each other, Lady with a sad gleam in her eyes and the rest with a frown.

Ivan raised a claw. "That's horrible. Thrown out by your own parents? Did you have anywhere to go?"

"Nowhere. Had no friends to take me in, so I went where I had connections—the Relic Seekers' Celestica base north of Lithiore. They allowed me to honor my granddad while I lived in the encampment there. And for a while it was a pretty good deal. Went out exploring like I wanted, dug up some neat relics. Even found my Lucarionite that way. I was allowed to keep it so long as I trained rigorously to master Mega Evolution," they explained before holding up the stone, its orange gleam more radiant in the sunlight.

"Sounds like fun. Are those relics just lying around all over the place? It's been thousands of years the Seekers must be scraping the bottom of the barrel by now right? I mean Alma's a big island, but you know," Galena pressed with a skeptical look.

"Firstly, Celestica's only been settled in any capacity for a couple centuries," they corrected, raising a finger. "Secondly, not every Seeker goes out into the field… I guess I never explained how the organization works. Allow me to enlighten you."

They cleared their throat and assumed a dramatic stance, like a military general addressing troops. "There are four levels in the Relic Seekers hierarchy. I was an Excavator: someone who delves into unexplored places, like the depths of mystery dungeons or ruins to retrieve artifacts. My parents were Curators, archivists and handlers of such discoveries. Those at the top are called Stewards, the leaders and organizers. You don't question them—when you're the most intimately trusted Pokémon to protect secrets from the entire world, you don't screw around. Anyone outside those categories is considered a Confidant, an outsider who provides some service to the Seekers. Merchants, guards, medics…. They're contracted without taking the Oath, but they'd be in a world of trouble if they let anything leak."

Ivan nodded, his eyes glowing curiously. "That's fascinating! It's sort of like AIRTA, not everyone is cut out for rescuing. There are plenty of roles to play to keep it going, from librarians and Enforcers like my uncles, to administrators who seem scary but turn out to be kindhearted, fashion-loving people who date Charizard accountants!"

The Lucario blinked. "I… was following but then you lost me. Or your mind. One of the two."

"It's a long story," the Grovyle said before chuckling nervously.

Lady raised her arm. "You mean Ms. Garnett, don't you Ivy? I hope she's doing well with her new relationship!"

"And I hope I have that kind of game when I'm nearing my golden years. Not that I'm too worried, Goodra age like a fine wine," Galena remarked with a grin.

Inti looked side to side. "I believe we're getting off track."

"Yes, big guy, thank you," Pneuma muttered as they tapped a foot. "Where were we? Oh, the dating thing reminds me. I worked as an Excavator for a couple years, dungeon diving. By that point I had steeled my body to withstand mega evolution. And I was a naturally quick learner, if I may brag. But despite that success, and getting to honor my granddad's memory, I still felt like something was missing."

"Something missing… oh! Was it Hyacinth?" Lady gasped.

The Lucario chuckled. "You're an intuitive one, aren't you? That's right, I was still without a friend, and my heart yearned for a bond. So one day I traveled to Lithiore, to Hyacinth's old house in hopes she was still there."

"I'm guessing in a turn of good luck, you found her there," Ivan remarked.

They bore a toothy grin. "It was like fate finally favored me. She and her family answered, still in Lithiore after all those years. I was beyond ecstatic. And they felt the same way, taking me in without a moment's hesitation. I was accepted for who I was. No hoops to jump through. No grief or berating. No contempt when I would get piercings, or when I updated them on my name and pronouns. Just unconditional support. Hyacinth and I picked up where we left off… and after a few years, as has been the story for many a Lucario over the ages, our aura bond blossomed and I fell in love. Luck on my side again, she fell for me too."

"Awwwwwwww!" Lady squealed, her face turning red. "That's just the sweetest! I hadn't known my Inti before we dated, but I felt the same bond with him! I knew he was the one for me!"

The Druddigon blushed as well. "W-What can I say? When the right person appears in your life, even a reserved fellow like myself knows to take that opportunity."

"Aw, shucks. This is all too wholesome, I might explode," Galena joked. "Makes me jealous I'm single at the moment. Oh well, at least I have myself. And I'm very good company."

Pneuma laughed. "I bet you are. But you can see now why Hyacinth's so important to me. She's been my companion all my life. Though a relationship while working that job proved… difficult. Adventuring into the unknown when it's just you is one thing. But when you have a partner at home? It made her worry. A lot. There would be days I got injured, or I'd come home days later than expected. And as the Cheri on top, my dumb ass would drink and get home in the middle of the night, looking like I'd been caught in an Avalanche."

"If I were in her position, I'd be worried sick myself," Inti said flatly. "I worry for my darling in situations beyond our control. I cannot imagine the fear one would have if their partner was actively participating in these risky activities."

The Lucario's ears fell and their tail dropped to the ground. "Neither could I. That's why I eventually left the Seekers. Not that I retired, it's more like I was put on reserve. I'm still sworn to my oath, I'm just a casual member now. But without the paycheck, I needed to earn a living. Battling seemed like the natural choice, I'd trained for years under the Seekers anyway, and this way I could put those skills to use in a controlled environment."

"There'd still be some risks. Even in sanctioned fights, you can get really hurt," Ivan said, gesturing to them. "But I get where you're coming from. You can't compromise your passion. I don't know what I'd do besides rescuing… unless I could open my own bookshop. Heh."

Pneuma shrugged. "It is what it is. Hyacinth will always worry for me, so I just want to give her less reason to… and, yeah. Relic Seekers. Shitty parents. Love of my life… That's pretty much my life story. I think that was more than five minutes. Oh well."

"Thanks for spilling your guts," Galena remarked before stretching her arms. "Detracts from the whole mysterious mentor thing you had going, but it was a good story. Seems like you won out in the end."

Lady bobbed her head in agreement. "I love happy endings! It's a shame you had to give up adventuring, I adore it! Fighting looks just as exciting though!"

"Now you can tell why I worry," Inti added with an awkward chuckle.

"Yes I can," Pneuma affirmed. "Sounds like you two have something special yourselves. Maybe we'll double date sometime." They then inhaled and turned to Ivan. "I think that's enough about me. Let's get back to You, Ivan. You've got friends who worry about you, so let's get that mega evolution under control so you don't have the same guilt. Time for round two of our fight!"

"That sounds good! Same thing as before?" the Grovyle replied.

"Yes… and no," they said as they walked to where they had battled earlier. "This time, I want to see your mega evolution in action. Think you can handle it, applying what I taught you?"

Ivan gritted his teeth as he walked to stand across from them. "There's only one way to find out. If you think I can control it, I trust you. I just need to figure out how to mega evolve on command."

"It's all about concentration and channeling instincts. Let me show you," Pneuma explained. They donned a fierce look, staring down the Grovyle and beginning to inhale deeply. The Lucario closed their eyes, spread out their feet, and balled their paws.

Brightscale waited in anticipation as Pneuma's stone began to shine and pulse, just as Ivan's had except at a slower, steadier pace. After a moment its glow suddenly became blinding, and the Lucario was enveloped in light.

Their form shifted, the process warping them as it had the Grovyle. After a moment their silhouette settled and the coat of light quickly disappeared, revealing their new features.

Pneuma stood slightly taller. The muscles of their arms, legs, and torso had grown, pushing against their clothes, which had adjusted to accommodate the change. The Lucario's hips and waist were streamlined, offering them even more agility. The fur of their chest and tail, turned completely yellow, was much bushier and ruffled. Bone spikes appeared on their feet and ankles, while the spike on their chest had curved on the top and bottom like a bird Pokémon's beak. Pneuma's paws and feet were covered in bright red fur instead of gray. Finally, the hair-like appendages hanging from the Lucario's head had elongated, snaking with red fur and round blue fur clumps at their ends.

"Whoa," Ivan uttered, his jaw dropping. "That's incredible! Neat to see it from this point of view."

Pneuma smirked. "Like what you see? If you think this is cool, wait til you see me in action."

"You look great Pneuma! I love how much power you exude!" Lady called.

"Makes me kind of jealous I can't do it," Galena said, scanning the Lucario up and down. "I want a glowup like that. Didn't know it made you stronger AND cuter."

"Ah, ah, ah. I appreciate the compliments, and they are true. But remember, I have a girlfriend," the transformed Lucario teased back, waggling a finger at the Goodra.

Their expression became serious again as they gestured to Ivan. "Well, my student, it's your turn. It's a simple process. Focus your feelings toward transforming. Take deep breaths, just like you were meditating."

"Just like meditating… I understand," he acknowledged. His demeanor stilled and relaxed, his chest rising and then deflating. He closed his eyes.

'Concentrate… think about mega evolution. I can do this. I WILL do this.'

Memories of his first time mega evolving rose to the forefront of his mind.

The vandal trio trying to kill him and his team.

The mega stone amulet falling toward an endless abyss.

The white light consuming him, his body warping in ways he could never properly explain.

The overwhelming rage taking hold of his body, the agony he felt as he changed into something that was not entirely himself.

'But it has to be me,' Ivan told himself. 'I must take control. To show Pneuma… and my team!'

He tensed up, ducking his head down. The rest of Brightscale watched carefully for any change within him.

Then suddenly, through his shut eyelids the Grovyle saw a bright, warm white light.

The light enveloped Ivan's body like before. All eyes were on him as again his silhouette stretched and shifted—his leaves and claws extending, and leafy wings shooting from his back.

After a moment of stillness, the light flew off the Grovyle. He again sported red wings and leaves, sharper fangs and claws, and patches of blue scales.

Ivan gasped as he opened his eyes, the glowing helixes in his pupils having returned. He began to tremble, his heart beating out of his chest and the familiar, unbearable heat burning up his insides.

'I've done… it again… must be in control,' he thought, fighting to think rationally.

Pneuma's eyes widened as they looked him up and down. "I didn't know what to expect, from your description. It's fascinating… but that discussion can wait. Now, breathe and focus. This is still your body. Your mind needs to call the shots."

"Show us you can control this, Ivan!" Inti encouraged from the sidelines with a serious look.

Lady flew over, stopping and hovering by the Grovyle's shoulder. "You can do it, Ivy, like you did in the caverns! We're all here for you!

"Don't let it keep you down, killer! Show them what you've got!" Galena shouted, backing her up.

"I am Ivan Drakonov. I am me," he muttered, trying to steady his breathing. His eyes shot around but landed on the Beautifly. "You all… believe in me. I… I'll control it!"

The Grovyle inhaled before letting out a bellowing roar. Immediately he felt much of the pressure in his chest disappear.

Galena and Inti exchanged wary glances but continued to observe.

"You sound like a mighty dragon! Do you feel better?" Lady asked him.

Ivan rose to his full, new height and turned to the Beautifly. He stopped shaking, and was able to look her in the eye. "Y-Yeah. I think I'm okay. Thanks Lady."

"That was smoother than last time. Guess this meditation stuff really works," the Goodra remarked, crossing her arms.

Pneuma chuckled. "Now I'm jealous. You have friends there to calm your nerves. But that's irrelevant, point is you took control. Keep your mind sharp though. It's one thing to gain your bearings, it's another to keep them."

"I'll do my best! Are you ready to see what this form can do?" Ivan replied, turning back to them.

The Lucario planted their feet and put up their fists. "More than ready. Let's set some ground rules. We fight to the fullest extent of our abilities, but we do not seriously injure each other. One small slip with your newfound powers and one of us can easily get hurt. With that out of the way, we'll go on three."

Ivan huffed, his red leaves growing and sharpening. He could feel adrenaline coursing through his veins and his nerves blaring like an alarm, but he focused on the Lucario's instructions.

Lady fluttered back to Galena and her husband, the three watching intently.

"One… two… THREE!" Pneuma barked before launching off their feet toward the mega Grovyle.

Ivan's gaze locked on the mega Lucario, the heat in his chest fueling him like fire in a furnace. He let out another cry before sprinting at them, shooting over like lightning.

Within seconds they converged. Pneuma attacked first, throwing their arm out with explosive force. Ivan lurched to his left but their fist grazed his side, causing pain to shoot through it. He hissed and swung with his blades, catching the Lucario's arm and slicing off more fur.

"Ouch. Needed a trim anyway," they uttered as they slid past and whirled around. "On your guard! I'm coming in hot! "

Pneuma charged again, their leg bursting into flame. Ivan gasped before spinning around and inhaling. His head snapped forward as he stretched open his mouth, dragon fire spraying out. The Grovyle directed it around, the attack homing like a laser. The Lucario dashed around and hopped over the flames.

"Fire with fire? Good plan—but mine's hotter!" Pneuma shouted as they leaped and swung their leg, their burning foot crashing square into Ivan's chest.

"GRACK!" the Grovyle cried, the attack forcing him off his feet and sending him rolling. He pushed off the ground mid-roll, stopping his momentum and clumsily righting himself.

Ivan clutched his chest. An ugly patch of red black and purple marred it. He began to seethe, the blistering pain matching the fire in his body threatening to consume him.

The Grovyle huffed as his blood boiled. He looked up at Pneuma and grimaced, an urge building up within him to tear the Lucario apart.

'No… I must concentrate. I can fight without going feral. I can fight. Without. Going. FERAL!'

Growling to push out his anger, Ivan dashed again. At each of his sides appeared another mega Grovyle, which copied him as he readied his blades.

"Lucid enough to strategize, huh?" Pneuma murmured before taking a step back. As the three Grovyle quickly approached, they stood back and scanned each assailant.

Suddenly they rushed forward and to the side, running straight into and through one Grovyle, causing it to disappear.

The remaining two spun around and sprang toward the Lucario in tandem, swinging their arms.

Pneuma ducked under one Grovyle's blades and punched through the other, dispersing it. The true Ivan lunged at them with claws outstretched. However the Lucario caught each of his arms with their paws, their grip like a Sandaconda's.

"Kudos for summoning the focus to use Double Team. But Illusions don't have auras, so I know which one's you," Pneuma said before driving their foot into Ivan's stomach. The Grovyle winced and began to lose his footing, allowing them to pull him back with a grunt.

Ivan yelped as he began to fall again, the world around him a swirl of colors. But his wings shot out and fanned downward, offering him stability for him to regain his balance.

The Grovyle slowly crept back, keeping his distance. Pneuma grinned and clasped their paws together, a confident look in their eye.

"One more test, Ivan. Think fast if you want to pass!" they shouted before moving their paws apart. An orb of surging aura amassed between them. Pneuma pivoted their arms and hips before unwinding and hurling the sphere.

'Aura sphere… Can't take a hit from that!' Ivan's thoughts yelled. A wave of heat washed over him, provoking his instincts as the orb flew closer. Without another thought he squatted and planted his feet. His wings flicked and twitched, and his eyes, the helixes within them pulsing, watched expectantly.

A second before the orb was to collide with Ivan, he let out a primal screech and sprang into the air. Instantly the Grovyle found himself almost ten feet in the air, wind blustering past him.

The Aura Sphere hit the ground and exploded, scattering dirt and dead grass. But the debris was nowhere close to striking the airborne Grovyle.

Panic and uncertainty flooded Ivan's mind. He was about to plummet when his eyes found Pneuma, the Lucario staring up with their mouth agape.

'Now is my chance!' he thought before swooping down, his snout pointed at the Lucario and claws reaching for them.

Wind rushed underneath his wings as Ivan descended, rapidly homing in on Pneuma. He pushed with all his might, his palms smashing into their shoulders.

The Lucario gasped as they toppled onto their back. Ivan kicked out his legs to prevent himself from falling too. Blinking away their surprise, Pneuma growled and moved their arms in preparation to attack. But the Grovyle quickly snatched their arms, pinning them to the ground by the wrists.

Pneuma exhaled, staring into Ivan's eyes. "Well done, you've pinned me down… Unfortunately, your torso is wide open!"

Suddenly the Lucario's foot ignited, and they repeatedly kicked Ivan's stomach. Tears streamed down Ivan's face as he struggled to keep his hold, his grip loosening before he let go of one arm to block another kick.

Pneuma's fist immediately became enveloped in ice. Then they threw a brutal, frigid punch into the bruised area of Ivan's chest, causing him to shout and release his hold.

The Grovyle clutched his chest before falling flat on his back. Pneuma scrambled to their feet and stood over him. Ivan attempted to push himself up, but he was met with an ephemeral Bone Club, which had suddenly appeared in their paws and was pointed at his face.

"Checkmate, student," Pneuma said, pressing their foot against Ivan's stomach for good measure. Their chest rose and fell as they siphoned air back into their lungs.

Ivan nodded silently. He held out his hand, which Pneuma grabbed and shook. They took their foot off of him before pulling the Grovyle to his feet.

"Thank… thank you," Ivan uttered. He studied his battered body, which was beginning to tremble again.

The Lucario frowned as their club disappeared. "Alright, time to change back. Remember, breathe and focus. It's the same process, just in reverse."

"G-Got it," the Grovyle said, gritting his fangs. He could still feel his heart pounding, though less rapidly. He took a single long, deep breath, bringing in as much air as his lungs could handle.

As Ivan's heartbeat began to steady, he watched Pneuma become encompassed in light again. Their form shortened and their features shifted back into their proper place. Finally, the Lucario emerged from the veil of light, their old self once again.

'I need to do that. Just breathe, Ivan. Just breathe and… Oh?'

Suddenly the Grovyle was again blinded. He instinctively closed his eyes and felt a bizarre sensation, a tingling mixed with numbness and a crawling discomfort, throughout his body as it changed back.

When Ivan opened his eyes, he stared down at his claws, which were their normal length. He craned his neck to see his wings missing, along with any trace of red or blue coloration.

"Looks like I'm back to normal," he remarked before wincing. He looked down at his chest, the bruises and burns remaining along with a dull stinging. His stomach ached from having been brutally kicked.

"And I'm okay too. I'll just need a little more burn salve than expected," he added before crossing his arms. "You know, I thought I had you at the end there. Guess you were right when you said you wouldn't go easy on me."

"Sorry about that. I could have stopped when you pinned me down, but you know my whole undefeated champ thing. Had to steal the win in the end," Pneuma confessed, scratching the back of their head. "But! If you had pinned my legs too, I would've been beat. Your mega-evolved form is intriguing, what a difference! Never thought I'd see a flying Grovyle. You channeled your power well, but your mistake was leaving vital weak points open. You can't rely on power alone. You have to stay on guard."

Ivan sighed and rubbed his chest before smiling. "I'll keep that in mind. At least I can say I almost defeated you, even if it was a training exercise."

He then turned to see Galena, Lady, and Inti slowly approaching, studying them.

"That was AMAZING!" Lady squealed. "You both looked great, I've never seen anything like it! And I'm proud of you for keeping control, Ivan! You'll be a mega evolution master in no time!"

Inti nodded. "I don't know about that, but it was impressive. You handled yourself quite well."

"Yeah, that was intense. Keep duking it out like that and I'll sit through the meditation stuff any day," Galena remarked, pumping a fist.

"It was pretty exciting. Hopefully with more training, it'll feel more natural," Ivan agreed.

Pneuma lightly jabbed his shoulder. "Of course it will, mister I can mega evolve early. You have the best teacher this side of Noverra. If I do say so myself."

"The training is going well, I take it!?" someone called.

The group turned and looked up to see Hyacinth on the porch, holding a tray of lemonade like a few days prior.

Pneuma gave her a paws-up. "Very well, babe! I guess it's time for another break. Come down here and grace us with your sweetness. And bring the lemonade too!"

"Oh, you! I'll be right there!" the Garbodor called back, her cheeks teal as she carefully lumbered down a couple of steps and into the road. She took her nozzle arm out from under the tray and beckoned the group toward her.

Pneuma and Brightscale walked over eagerly. Once they reached Hyacinth, she lowered the tray so everyone could grab their drinks, with Inti taking Lady's glass for her.

"Thanks, girlfriend. Your lemonade's pretty good! Nice to have after a hard day of training," Galena remarked.

Ivan took a sip from his drink, then rolled his eyes at the Goodra. "You're not the one getting kicked around…"

"Didn't say I was the one training. It's technically true," she rebutted before beginning to gulp down her lemonade.

"It's kind of you to keep treating us!" Lady said before perching on Inti's head. She extended her proboscis into one of the glasses in his hands.

"Yeah, thanks Hyacinth! You really didn't need to go through the trouble," Ivan said.

She blushed again. "It's no trouble at all! Besides, I added some Oran juice to help with any injuries from the training."

Once all of Brightscale were enjoying their lemonade, Hyacinth moved the tray toward Pneuma.

"And for all your hard work, Pnu Pnu, I got you an extra treat from the fridge. Enjoy!" she said cheerfully.

The Lucario looked at the tray. In its center was a lone brown bottle, with a lime-colored label displaying the words Budew Brew.

"Oh, a beer? Didn't think you'd bring me one," Pneuma said sheepishly, their ears falling.

She nudged the bottle to the edge of the tray with her free arm, offering it. "You deserve it! After all the work you've poured into the tournament and this training, you should be able to relax."

"Well… Thank you, Cynthie. I don't know what to say," they said in pleasant surprise. "I suppose one couldn't hurt. Especially if you of all Pokémon are offering—"

Pneuma began to reach for it when their paw suddenly froze. Their eyes darted to the bottle, then into Hyacinth's adoring eyes.

The Lucario remained still, an uncertain look appearing on their face. They withdrew their paw and smiled. "I appreciate the gesture, babe. But I think I'll pass for today. Your lemonade's more than enough to keep me refreshed!"

"Okay, Pneuma! I'll put it in the fridge if you want it later," she replied before gazing into their eyes. "...I love you."

Pneuma put their paws on their chest and walked up to Hyacinth. "Love you too, Cynthie. Thanks for always being in my corner."

With that, the Lucario poked their snout up and closed their eyes. The Garbodor's eyes lit up before she sunk down and leaned over, flattening her lips. Her partner stood on their tiptoes, and their mouths pressed against each other.

The pair kept their lips together before withdrawing. They both blushed before Pneuma turned toward Brightscale.

"I think we've done enough training for one day. You're welcome to stay and finish your drinks, but I'd like to wrap up so I can spend some time with Cynthie."

"Absolutely. We wouldn't want to overstay the welcome," Ivan said before sipping the last of his lemonade.

Galena smirked and gestured with her empty glass. "Damn, good going, Pneuma. Looks like you know how to keep your girl happy."

"I certainly hope so. She's worth all the effort, and then some," they remarked.

"You're going to make me cry!" the Garbodor said with a laugh, waving her nozzle arm.

Ivan held up his glass, prompting Hyacinth to lower the try again. One by one, Brightscale returned their glasses.

The Grovyle looked up at Pneuma eagerly. "So… when can we train again? I can't wait to battle again and work on mega evolving again!"

"My schedule's a mess right now, but I'll write to you about it," they assured before their eyes swept over the group. "It was great to have you all again, and thanks for letting me ramble. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a big beautiful Garbodor to make out with!"

"See you Pneuma! Thanks again for today! Maybe next time I'll beat you!" the Grovyle said with a laugh.

Galena grinned and playfully elbowed him. "Or they'll kick your butt again. Which would also be fun to see."

"Goooodbyyyeee! I can't wait to see you two fight again!" Lady said, waving too.

"Yes, and thank you yet again for your hospitality," Inti added.

Brightscale turned around and began to walk down the dirt road toward Lithiore. The sun hung high in the sky, promising that they would return home with plenty of sunlight left in the day.

"So, feeling good about your first day of training?" Galena asked Ivan.

"Oh, definitely!" Ivan uttered happily. "I'm happy you guys came to watch."

Lady flew over to float next to him. "I wouldn't miss it for the world, Ivy! It's amazing how you're learning so quickly!

"Yeah, good job not going crazy back there," the Goodra seconded.

"It's a lot easier when you have people who have your back. That goes for anything, really. That's what Pneuma's story told me, I think," he explained.

"I'm glad that we could be there. It is a big weight off my chest to see you improve," Inti said with a nod. "Most importantly, I am happy you're becoming safer."

Ivan donned a big smile. "Thanks, guys. It means a lot! Couldn't have done it without you."

He looked up at the sun, then clutched his amulet, wincing slightly as its leftover energy met the singed nerves on his palms, though they had already begun to heal.

He quickly shook the sensation away, his self-satisfied look solidifying on his face. 'Today was great! I had better control over my mega evolution, and I got to know Pneuma a little better. And best of all, my team is proud. I feel proud.'

"I'll bet all that training worked up your appetite, Ivan. What do you say we go into town and stuff our faces with some spice cake?" Galena asked with a look of anticipation.

He chuckled. "Sure! I could eat. Though if we're going right into town, better take off my amulet. Don't want to forget my oath already, heh."

He then took the amulet from around his neck, studied it, and stuffed it into his bag. He then looked around at his team, his content expression remaining. "You know, with you guys by my side, I think I'll get a grasp on mega evolution in no time. I promise to make you proud!"

Lady floated higher. "I know you will! You always make us proud, Ivy!"

"I don't know about all the time," the Goodra sighed before smiling and shaking her head. "But, we know you're doing your best. And that's what counts. I'm sure your dad didn't know the first thing about this mega evolution stuff, but I think he'd be pretty stoked to see you succeed at it."

Ivan blinked, then grinned. "I would hope so. And who knows? Maybe this training will help me be a better rescuer, too. The better I become, the more I honor his name."

'If you can see me now, Dad, I hope this makes you happy. And even if not… I'll continue to work hard for Pneuma and my team. There is so much trust placed in me—as a friend, as a leader, as a student—and I'll do my best to make everyone proud.'

---

Hope you enjoyed the chapter, and learning even more about Pneuma! It was a lot of exposition, but I felt it necessary as I'd like to say we're halfway through the fic, but this means I had to catch you all up on their story. But aside from that, I was happy to finally have more opportunities for mega evolution battles. If you like this direction for the story, stay tuned for more!