Chapter 27: Uncle Ivan, Part 2
"Eden? Eden!? It's Uncle Ivan! If you can hear me, yell back!" the Grovyle desperately shouted, his hands cupped around his mouth as he walked along the road. His eyes darted in all directions, checking every inch of the street.
Galena was not far behind, presenting a quickly scribbled paper portrait of the Snivy to an airborne Ledian.
"Seen this girl? Two feet tall, pink ribbon on her tail, possibly talking about her lucrative business opportunity?" the Goodra asked.
The ladybug shook his head before silently floating away. Galena sighed and looked up to spot Lady surveying above.
"Man, wings would come in handy right now," the Goodra mumbled. She held the picture up to a Golurk, the ghost stopping his heavy stride to give the paper a deadpan gaze.
"Seen this Snivy? I'm sure you can see lots of things from up there," Galena remarked.
The hulking specter stood completely still. "I have… in fact…"
"Oh, really? Great man," she uttered. "Where did she go? Can you point me toward—"
"...Not. Seen…. a Snivy. I…. apologize," he finished, his words drawn out and whispery like a gust of chilling air.
Galena frowned. "Guess I got ahead of myself there. Sorry to bother you, man. Have a good one… and be careful not to bump your head on any doors. I know that struggle all too well."
The Golurk said nothing in response, merely opting to walk past. His steps were heavy enough to scatter dust and dirt from the road.
"That was helpful … Feels weird not being the tall one there. Actually kinda made me feel small," the Goodra said to herself. She looked down. "Like a little Sliggoo…"
She kept her eyes on the ground for a moment before soft wingbeats broke her trance. Galena turned to find that Lady had returned from her scouting.
"I didn't have any luck in the air. Did anyone you spoke with see Eden?" the Beautifly inquired.
The Goodra shrugged. "No. It's like the girl just up and disappeared. Hope she's alright. When you're small like that, people can take advantage of you."
"I'm sure she'll be fine! This would happen all the time with my swarm. It's hard to keep track of twelve Wurmple! But my siblings turned out okay!" she assured.
"I guess," Galena muttered. "But this isn't the wilds. Civil Pokémon can be scary. You never want to leave it to chance." She forced herself to stand tall. "Oh, whoops. Can't think too hard about that right now. Let's go see if Uncle Carrot has any leads."
She looked over at Ivan, who was conversing with a Braixen in a blue kamishimo.
"Nf, Ife hvn'kt sheen hrrmph," the fox mumbled, slurping ramen from a paper container. She had a scabbard with a sheathed katana on her back. Once the Braixen swallowed her mouthful, she smiled. "Is that your daughter? You seem awfully young to be a dad."
Ivan wrung his claws. "I'm her cousin, actually. I was watching her for the afternoon. But look how that turned out…"
"There there, it's gonna be okay," she said before hopping closer to him. She gently lifted his chin. "We hired blades have a saying. ' Protect best you can and leave the rest to fate.' So don't worry. The girl will turn up. Don't let stress overwhelm that handsome face! If I see you around, I'll ask how it turned out!"
The Braixen stuck out her tongue, winked, and walked away. Ivan blushed and looked back at her. "Oh, uh, thank you! I hope you're right!"
He shook away the redness of his cheeks. "Note to self, I might like Braixen now. But that's for another time. Now I've got to find—"
"I… Ivan!? Uncle Ivan!? Anyone!?" a young voice called from the side.
The Grovyle whirled around. "E-Eden!? Where are you? Are you in trouble? Are you hurt!?"
"Heeeeeeeelp!"
His eyes followed the Snivy's voice toward a shadowy alley between two brick shops up ahead. He gasped, planted his feet, and took off, cutting off a Seismitoad and a Wobuffet trying to pass by.
"Don't worry Eden, Uncle Ivan's coming!" the Grovyle shouted as he slipped into the alley.
The shaded space was surprisingly wide, allowing enough room for a dumpster toward the end and thick patches of grass along both walls.
Ivan skidded to a halt, his eyes shooting toward the alley's center.
Eden had her back against the wall, causing her tail to sprawl to the side in an unnatural manner. An Inkay child floated before her, having wrapped his tendril around her and pressed the Snivy against the wall. The squid's other arm was held up threateningly.
"I said, give me all the money you've got!" the Inkay demanded.
Eden struggled and seethed. "I told you I don't have anything!"
"Of course my first time hypnotizing someone, they don't even have money," he groaned. "If you don't have any cash, I'll just take that scarf!"
Tears formed at the corners of her eyes. "My uncle gave me this! You aren't getting anything, you futureless delinquent!"
"Futureless!? I'm going into the family business with my pops! How dare you!" the Inkay said before winding back his free tendril, preparing to strike.
Ivan gasped, then dashed ahead. He slid just in front of them, causing both children to look up.
"Don't you lay a finger—tentacle—whatever, on her!" he commanded, pointing a claw at him.
"Great, I'm busted!" the Inkay uttered. "Pops said I was getting good at hypnotizing too. It should have lasted way longer than that."
Eden huffed. "Maybe it's because my brain isn't pea-sized like yours."
"I resent that! And I hate peas!" the squid shot back.
"What in the name of pumpernickel is going on here?" someone pressed.
All three turned their attention to the alley's entrance. Galena trudged in with Lady atop her head. She crossed her arms and glared down at the Inkay.
"I'm being bullied by this smooth-brained squid!" the Snivy cried. "My mommy and I are going to file criminal AND civil lawsuits!"
Lady shook her head. "I'm sure if we stop fighting and talk about it, nobody will get in trouble!"
"Pops says never give in to anyone!" the Inkay growled. He grimaced at Eden. "And you shut up, you worthless, dumb girl! You're pathetic and weak if you need someone to bail you out!"
"Whoa, whoa, that kind of talk is… uncalled for," Galena began, but she deflated as the words came out. Her head drooped, and her gaze fell to the ground.
Ivan took notice, frowning. "Don't worry, Galena. We're about to put a stop to this." He stared down at the boy again. "Let my cousin go. That's your last warning."
"C-C-Crud! Alright fine. Pops is gonna yell his beak off for this one," the boy uttered in concession. He released his grip, retracting his tentacle.
Ivan exhaled. "That's much better. Now, it's not in the rescuer's code of conduct to detain children. So, you better run off to your father."
"Picking on other Pokémon is not okay! You need to go home and think about what you've done. I hope you grow up into a nicer, more mature young man!" Lady added.
The Inkay huffed. Eden backed up and stuck out her tongue at him.
"Whatever. You're a bunch of stuffy old people. Pops raised me perfectly fine!" he rebutted before beginning to float back toward the end of the alley.
"But it seems you haven't learned from his discretion," a male voice called from behind him.
The children and rescuers looked toward the alley's end. A Malamar floated in with a deep scowl and a twitching eye. He used his tendrils to push himself along the walls, slithering through the air. His course twisted and snaked as he loomed over the group, yellow eyes piercing the shade.
"P-P-Pops! Thank Arceus you came!" the Inkay uttered. "These mean adults were attacking me and—"
"I won't hear your fabrications, Turvey," he spat, his voice dry and humorless. "I thought I taught you to be more cunning. Perhaps I was wrong."
Eden huffed. "I thought getting bailed out was 'weak and pathetic.'"
Ivan stepped forward. "This is your son? Do you know what he's been up to? He hypnotized my cousin and was about to—!"
"I know what he did. I taught him how to do that, Grovyle," the Malamar scoffed. "I'm just here to pick him up and get out of here."
Galena stood tall and summoned back a look of confidence. "You think we're just gonna let your kid kidnap someone and get away? You're dead wrong."
"How disappointing! You should set a better example for your child!" Lady agreed.
"Oh, I will. I'll place special emphasis on subtlety and preparation," he said, rolling his eyes. "But you aren't going to simply watch as we leave, are you? Don't bother answering that. Let it be known I would rather have avoided this."
Before the rescuers could process the Malamar's words, he opened his beak wide. He let out a shrill screech before a sparkling white beam flew from his mouth, yellow and pink rings of energy shooting down through it.
"Look out!" Ivan shouted as he darted to the side. His companions threw themselves to the walls. The beam exploded on the ground by the street and dissipated.
Galena grimaced as she resumed a defensive stance. "So much for setting an example!"
"Eden! Run out to safety and get Inti!" the Grovyle shouted back at the Snivy.
She began to dash away. However Turvey noticed and flew after her. Within seconds he was upon her, slamming into her and knocking her to the ground.
"Gruh! Leave me alone you dummy!" Eden yelped as she tried to push herself up.
The Inkay extended his tendrils, grabbing Eden's arms. "I'm not a dummy, you're the dummy!"
Ivan turned to assist the Snivy, but his attention was diverted by the Malamar soaring at him and whipping his tentacle. The Grovyle jolted out of the way but the tendril grazed his arm, sending searing pain through it and making him wince.
Lady flew up and swooped down on the Malamar. She flapped her wings, silver powder scattering and quickly falling down on him.
His eyes widened. He smacked the wall with his tentacles, launching himself out of the way. The Malamar whirled around to look up and spat another Psybeam. The Beautifly swerved out of the way, the attack missing and flying into the sky.
Galena looked up at them before shouts from behind her drew her attention. Eden was still constricted by Turvey's tendrils, the pair tugging each other back and forth. Vines sprouted from her back and began slapping Turvey in the face. The Inkay growled and tightened his grip.
The Goodra spun around, bringing her head back in preparation to spit an attack. But suddenly she stopped, observing the fighting more closely.
Eden cried out, baring her teeth in pain. Turvey lurched to the side, pushing her against the brick wall.
"Your vines are pathetic! Give up, stupid girl! There's nothing you can do!" he yelled, a twisted grin forming on his beak.
The sight made Galena flinch and her horns droop.
"No… not again. It can't be happening again," she muttered, frozen in place.
Turvey pulled his tentacles back, reeling Eden closer before shoving her against the wall again.
The Snivy yelped, a tear running down her cheek. "Someone… urk! Help!"
The Goodra snapped out of her trance. She inhaled and lurched forward before spitting purple energy. The beam exploded into the wall to Turvey's right, knocking down both children but freeing Eden.
"Owwwww! That was loud! Pops, heeeeeeelp!" the Inkay shrieked. He picked himself up and shot toward his father.
"I'm a little busy, son!" the Malamar shouted from above. He looked down to see Eden rise to her feet and turn toward the alley entrance. Then he looked back up at Lady. The Beautifly bolted around, firing sharp gusts of wind.
The Malamar veered to each side, dodging each gust before clicking his tongue. "It seems I have two problems—a swift adversary and a witness about to flee. Let's take care of both Pidgey with one stone, shall we?"
His eyes glowed a deep purple. Eden tried to escape, only for a creeping mist of the same dark purple to block the entrance. She gasped as it spread around her, enveloping the walls, ground and even the sky. It snuffed out the daylight and the colors pouring in from the street.
Lady, Ivan, and Galena scanned around as the alley was replaced by a bizarre purple room, glimmering white lines creating rectangular patterns in the mist.
"What the?" Ivan uttered. He began to move forward, but paused.
The Grovyle's footsteps were heavier. He pushed out with a hand, but the effort took twice as long. As the hand moved it blurred, a phantasm of the limb following it like a shadow.
Ivan looked up to see Lady having the same trouble, her flight slowed down and shadowed.
"Oh? What is this?" the Beautifly uttered, attempting to float up but was weighed down by the room's twisted gravity.
She studied the Malamar only for him to bolt to the side, his form flickering in and out of view.
"Eek! I'm having trouble… moving!" the Beautifly shouted, flapping her wings. Silver dust shot out from them but descended slowly it became almost suspended.
The Malamar reappeared to the side, subverting the dust. He rapidly flung a tentacle and dropped it onto Lady, the end striking the top of her head.
The Beautifly yelped before beginning to plummet. Gravity seemed to shift on her, pulling her more quickly to the ground.
Just as she was about to hit the dirt, she desperately fanned her wings, managing to keep herself in the air. She had a dazed look, her eyes half-shut as pain pulsed through her head.
"Ow… what an awful headache," she whimpered.
"What's the matter? Having trouble keeping the advantage in my Trick Room?" the Malamar taunted.
Ivan fought the bizarre gravity, moving past Lady and below the squid. "You're only delaying the inevitable! Besides, you're not the only one who can play tricks!"
The Grovyle concentrated, and to each side of him appeared a duplicate. The triplets took a deep breath, preparing to retaliate.
The Malamar laughed. "Trying to out-trick me? Amusing, but ultimately useless."
As the three Grovyle opened their mouths to attack, the squid disappeared again. The triplets looked around, their gazes landing to the right.
The Malamar manifested again before lashing with extended tendrils.
The Grovyle flinched as the limbs crashed down, breaking the illusions and smacking Ivan's sides. He shouted and stumbled back, stopping next to Lady.
"This is all the rescue organization has to offer?" the Malamar asked. He twisted and phased through the air, vanishing and reappearing again. "You would think for all their grandeur and heroics, even their most average rescuers could squeeze out of a tight spot."
Ivan gritted his teeth. "We weren't exactly expecting an ambush in the middle of town!"
"That is your fault for not being prepared," he retorted, waggling his tendril. "But it likely never mattered. I can see into your very souls. You're all pathetic pretenders. Weak AND worthless. I'll deal with you and be off with my reckless child. And there is nothing you can do."
The Grovyle growled, but then his eyes lit up knowingly. "Maybe not the fastest of us… but if Trick Room how I remember…!"
He craned his head back toward his Goodra teammate. "Galena! You should have an advantage! Let him have it!"
The Goodra held out her hands. Her arms moved faster than she commanded them to, blurring like the Malamar. She stepped forward, though the strange gravity caused her to lurch.
When she stabilized she inspected the scene. The squid floated with tendrils extended like whips, all while shifting in and out of reality. Lady flew weakly, stunned and injured. Eden pushed desperately against the purple wall, trying to escape.
Though Galena had the chance to make a move…
She froze.
The Goodra's face went pale, meeting the Malamar's cold eyes. He smiled wickedly at her. Her chest began to heave up and down, her breaths panicked and heavy. The room seemed to close in on her, choking her.
"Galy?" Lady called, looking back at her with concern.
Galena took a step back, stumbling as the room sped up her motions. "No… no no no no…"
The Malamar cackled. "Who would have thought? A weak, spineless Goodra? Pity. She's just as worthless as the lot of you."
"Worthless," she repeated under her breath. Tears streamed from her eyes as she started to tremble. "Weak. Stupid. Useless…"
Ivan's gaze softened. "Galena…"
'Is this like what she endured in school? Being attacked, berated, trapped…? This has to stop. Now.'
"Galena! I know this is hard. But you can push through it! We're counting on you!"
The comment only made the Goodra quiver more vigorously. She couldn't meet Ivan's eyes. "Stupid, pathetic pile of goo…"
"Galena! I could use girlboss's help right about now!" Eden cried out as Turvey spread his tentacles and floated up to her, cornering her.
Still, the Goodra remained petrified, beginning to sob and shrink. "I-I'm sorry. I can't…"
Ivan swore under his breath. 'This is bad. What can we do? While this Trick Room is up, the rest of us are too slow. Unless…' He wiggled his claws to test the room's effects. There was no blurring or delay. His body suddenly moved as normal on command.
'Trick Room doesn't slow fast Pokémon down, it just inverts the order!' he realized. 'We can move as soon as he does! We just hadn't tried following up before!'
Ivan cupped his mouth with his hands. "Hey, 'Pops!' If you're so smart, come teach me a lesson or two!"
The Malamar moved his gaze onto Ivan. He raised his brow before melting into the room's surreal fabric.
The Grovyle watched for his impending return. 'Alright, I've got your attention. Now where are you going to pop up?'
After a moment, the Malamar manifested right in front of him.
"It would be. My. Pleasure," the Malamar said sadistically.
An aura exuding raw power emanated around him. He wound back a tentacle, its muscles growing and surging before he threw it with savage force.
As the end of the tendril flew closer, Ivan stayed in place. He smiled.
THUD! CRACK!
The arm connected full force—but not with the Grovyle, who suddenly vanished. The tentacle struck the ground, creating deep cracks in the dirt. The Malamar's tentacle went limp on the ground, bruised and red.
"ARRRGH! What? How? How did you—? Where did you—!?" the squid screeched as he reeled it in.
But as he tried to recover, Ivan reemerged to the side. He opened his mouth wide and sprayed dragon fire into the Malamar's face.
"Graaaaahaaaaarck!" he uttered, lurching back in the air as he swatted away the flames.
Ivan donned a proud look. "Trick Room allows you to attack first, so you made it seem like we had no way to hit you. But it was our turn after, we just didn't retaliate. We made that mistake, but luckily you didn't think we'd figure it out! That was YOUR mistake!"
"A mistake, you say…? You're right, Grovyle," the Malamar spat before raising his uninjured tendril. "I won't make that mistake ag—GAH!"
A gust of wind blasted into him, knocking him back and causing him to hover lower. Lady swooped down with a fierce expression.
"You've made many mistakes! Like being cruel and aggressive! And hurting my friends and Eden!" the Beautifly declared.
The Malamar groaned, rubbing the cuts and bruises the attack left all over his head. "You fools. Do you not understand my victory is assured? Now that you two have attacked, I have the upper hand once more. And your Goodra friend is still petrified. I have free reign of this battlefield." His pained expression twisted into one of malicious satisfaction. "And there's no one left to stop—"
"Pops! POPS! HELP!" Turvey shrieked. "Arck! Let me goooo!"
Inti, Lady and the Malamar turned. The Inkay was struggling and flailing his tentacles. Eden's vines were wrapped tightly around him, constricting him. The Snivy walked confidently up to the Malamar, presenting the wriggling child to him.
"Oh, Turvey. What have we discussed about letting your guard down?" the larger squid sighed.
She huffed and pointed at the Malamar. "Listen up! No more fighting, it's time to make a deal! If you don't let us out of this place, Topsey, Turvey, whatever his stupid name is, is going to get it! I'll pop his dumb face like a pimple!"
"Good going, Eden!" Lady cheered.
The Inkay sobbed as the Snivy tightened the vines even more. "Pops! Tell her to stooooooop! My brains are gonna squeeze out like toothpaaaaaaaste!"
"Arceus damn it, Turvey…. Urgh. Very well. Release my imbecile child and I will release you from this Trick Room," the Malamar conceded.
"Sounds like a deal," Eden said, glaring daggers at the struggling Inkay. "But you hold up your end of the bargain first. I'll keep squeezing the stupid from his head until then. That's just good business sense."
The larger squid groaned, and his eyes glowed purple again. The bizarre mist began to dissipate, after a moment revealing the alley once more.
Lady flittered side to side, testing her mobility. She flew at her usual speed. "Ooh, much better! I'm glad to be out of there!"
"Huh. Didn't think that'd work. Guess I'm good at business stuff after all," the Snivy remarked.
"Yes, yes. You're very persuasive, young one. Now let him go!" the Malamar snapped.
As Turvey whimpered and squirmed, Eden grinned. "Ooooor I could keep him like this. I'm getting used to his face. It's dumb but in a cute way. From an angle."
Adeep scowl appeared on his father's face. He wound back his good tendril, ready to lash at the Snivy. "WHAT!? Why, you little brat, I shall—!"
"Whoa, whoa! Okay! That's enough!" Ivan uttered before rushing in between them. "She'll give back your son. This fight is over."
Eden groaned. "But Uncle Ivaaaaaaan! If you give him back, they're just gonna run! The little jerk deserves this!"
"No I—Owwwww! Don't!" Turvey protested, red marks forming on his head from the vines.
Ivan looked at Eden and sighed. "My responsibility is to protect you. I don't care if they run. Escaping the consequences will be their problem. We'll talk to the enforcers. My problem is you potentially getting hurt. Trust me, okay? Let the boy go."
Eden gazed at her 'uncle,' then into Turvey's anguished black eyes. She hissed and released her vines. "There, now go away before I change my mind. I'm still curious how much squeezing it takes to pop that big head."
Once free, the Inkay sniffled, whirled around, and flew to his father. He clamped onto the Malamar, burying his face in his murky, spotted abdomen. "Po-o-o-ops! I wanna go hooooome! That girl is meeeeean!"
"Enough blabbering, Turvey. It's time we cut our losses and lay low. Home might not be the wisest place to stay. But we'll discuss that on the run," the Malamar muttered, offering a half-hearted pat on the Inkay's back. He scooped up his son into his tendrils, glared back at Ivan, then rushed to the alley's end. The pair turned the corner and disappeared, Turvey's whimpers fading.
Ivan let out a big sigh of relief. He turned toward the others, looking them over. "Is everyone alright? That was… certainly something."
"I have a little headache, but I'll be okay!" Lady assured.
"I'd be better if you really pummeled those meanies," Eden hissed, turning up her nose. "I'm okay, though."
The Beautifly fluttered up to her. "You were so brave, Eden! You took charge just like a real rescuer, like your uncle!"
"Really!?" she gasped, stars in her eyes. "That's so awesome! I could be a rescuer one day!"
"Yeah, girl, that was impressive," Galena said, waddling up slowly. She had a weary look and her posture was still deflated, but she managed a small smile. "You did more than I expected. More than a lot of kids in your position would be able to do…"
Lady's antennae fell. "Are you okay, Galy? I've never seen you freeze up like that before. You looked pretty scared."
She shook her head. "Uh, y-yeah. I'm fine, girlfriend. Just… got caught off guard, that's all."
Ivan gave the Goodra a knowing glance. Her eyes fell to the ground.
The Grovyle cleared his throat and turned to the Beautifly. "Lady, we should regroup. Inti's probably worried. Take Eden to him, and I'll stay here with Galena and call the enforcers."
She nodded vigorously. "No problem, Ivy! I'll make sure we get Eden her much-deserved ice cream, and that my hubby knows everything is okay!"
Lady began to float away toward the street. Eden shrugged and waved to her 'uncle.'
"Don't stay too long! Then you won't be able to buy me ice cream!" she called before following the Beautifly.
Once the two had left, Ivan and Galena locked eyes. The Goodra looked away, sheepishly rubbing her arm.
Ivan clacked his claws together. 'Do I talk to her, or do I leave it be? No. Lady's right, I've never seen that happen with her before. We shouldn't sweep it under the rug."
"So… back there during the fight, you froze up. That wasn't like you," he remarked, his voice full of concern. "Is there something you'd want to talk about?
Galena grabbed her head, still avoiding eye contact. "No, don't worry. Really. It's nothing."
"It doesn't sound like nothing," he remarked. "I'm going to guess this is about your bullying back in school. I won't make you talk about it, but I want to make sure you're okay."
She finally met his gaze. She had a look of great pain, tears forming in her eyes.
"Eden getting bullied like that, and that asshole Malamar trapping us… I don't know, it brought back bad memories. But I promise you, It's fine," she explained, though her tone was uncertain.
Ivan frowned. "I normally trust you at your word, but I can tell something's wrong. You know you can talk to me"
"My mind just holds on to those memories, sometimes. I guess deep down I still… believe the things that Zoroark bitch said," the Goodra admitted, wiping away a tear. A new one appeared in its place, glistening. "Just drop it, alright…? I'll get over it."
The Grovyle shook his head. "No, this isn't fine! It pains me to see you like this."
He began to walk toward Galena, a hand tenderly outstretched.
"I told you it's FINE! " she suddenly yelled, tears beginning to stream down her face. "This happens… I just don't do it in front of others. Because if they saw me like this, they'd know that I'm a disgusting, pathetic excuse of a Pokémon. Just look at me. Maybe that bitch was right. I am worthless."
Ivan gritted his teeth. He felt his chest tighten, the idea grasping at his heart. "That's not true! You're an amazing friend and teammate, you're so brave and strong and—"
He paused. The Goodra began to sob, sitting down and letting her tears fall to the dirt.
"Ugly… stupid… worthless pile of slime," she muttered between gasps.
The Grovyle winced. 'I guess that bully hurt her even more than I thought. What do I do?'
After biting his claws in thought, Ivan moved beside her and sat down. The Grovyle looked up at her as she continued to cry.
Not knowing what else to say, Ivan pulled a tissue out of his bag. He held it up to Galena, who after a moment looked at it, her eyes puffy and red.
The Goodra took it and dried her face. She sniffled before blowing her nose. Her sobbing stopped, though her head still hung.
Ivan scratched his head. "Are you… feeling better?"
"Dunno," she murmured, slouching. "But thanks for being here anyway. Even though right now, I feel like I don't deserve it. I froze up and almost let those freaks bat you guys around. What's the point of being a big Goodra if I can't stop a single damn Malamar? Maybe I really don't deserve any of this. You, Inti, Lady, everything…"
"Do you really mean that? Do you think so little of yourself?" Ivan asked.
Galena sighed. "Yes? No? I don't know. I try not to think about it, but sometimes I just get these episodes. It's bad enough to remember all those years I was picked on, but the worst part is that I can't control them. This happens when I feel… powerless, I guess. Having to endure something and having no way to stop it, questioning yourself the whole… it's the worst feeling in the world."
"Powerless. I think I get what you mean," Ivan said with a nod. "I felt like that when my dad died. And when I was working for Umbrich. It felt like my life wasn't in my control for a while."
The Goodra tilted her head. "Really? How… how did you deal with it? I trained my ass off and evolved, only still to feel this way. How are you so happy-go-lucky? No offense."
He tapped his chin, then offered a smile. "Well, I'm not always so chipper. Remember Lustershine Caverns? The first time, I mean. I was a mess, I felt like my life was about to crumble on me. What helped was having people in my corner. People who offered a hand and reminded me I could pull through."
The Grovyle stood up and held out a hand. "You're a fantastic friend, Galena. You're passionate, intelligent, and strong. Brightscale wouldn't be what it is without you. You definitely deserve us. And you deserve our support as we have yours. So let us give you a hand, okay? We'll have your back no matter what. And with how strong you are, I know those scars will heal in time."
The Goodra looked at his hand before finally smiling. "Thanks man. I needed that." Galena took his hand and began to stand, though the Grovyle could only help so much as she pushed her larger body up to its full height.
"Is there anything else I can do to make you feel better?" Ivan asked.
She rubbed her chin, then smirked. "Well, it's a little cliche for a Goodra, but a hug doesn't sound half bad right now. If you want to."
Ivan laughed, then held out his arms. "I don't have a problem with that!"
The Goodra waddled up and did the same. The Grovyle met her halfway, wrapping his arms around her sides.
A pleasant warmth enveloped him as he sunk slightly into her pillowy torso, his head resting at the base of her neck.
The smooth, soft feel of the embrace was soothing enough that Ivan did not feel the instinct to withdraw even after a few moments. But he eventually relented, stepping back.
"That was nice! I guess Goodra are rightfully pretty famous for their hugs," he remarked with a chuckle.
Galena grinned. "You're not so bad a hugger yourself. For a carrot."
"Are you ever going to run out of vegetables to call me?" Ivan asked.
"Nope. And even if I do, I'll get creative," the Goodra said with a wink.
Ivan scratched the back of his head. "So… if we're all good here, we should probably get back to Inti, Lady, and Eden. Don't want them getting out of line just to look for us."
"Yeah. Only thing is, it's gonna be awkward to explain what happened again," she murmured.
Ivan wrung his claws. "We'll explain when there's a good opportunity. And whenever you're ready of course." He stood tall and patted his stomach. "Now, that fight took a lot out of us. I'll bet some ice cream would put a spring back in our steps."
"For sure," Galena remarked, perking back up. "Nothing like dessert to take your mind off of stuff."
He chuckled again. "And it'll be a nice reward for Eden too. Though I don't know what I'll tell my mom…"
'Maybe I'll bring some back for her. It might calm her down when I tell her about us getting attacked.'
"Then the enforcers came and took our statements. That's why we're late. And why we might have spoiled Eden's dinner," Ivan said bashfully.
Brightscale had returned to their base and gathered around the table again with Eden and Vivian. This time, however, an awkward tension hung in the air.
The Sceptile bit her lip. Her brow was lowered in frustration, but her eyes were big with worry. " Well, I'm not happy to hear about how out of hand things became—buying her snacks before dinner? Talking about rescuing when that was the one thing I asked you not to do? And most concerningly, failing to notice her being taken by a strange child? I expected far more responsibility from you, Ivan Luka Drakonov."
'Middle name… that's not good,' her son thought with a gulp. "I-I really didn't want to break our promise, but things got away from me. I was just trying to be a good uncle, cousin, or whatever. I just wanted to—"
"Uncle Ivan gave me the. Best. Day. Ever!" Eden interrupted, proudly throwing a hand in the air. All eyes fell on her. Once she had the spotlight, she proudly displayed her scarf.
The Sceptile frowned. "You told me that that awful boy pushed you against a brick wall."
"Yeah, but I got him back! Heheh. It was funny when it looked like his brains were turning to goop. But in the end, Uncle Ivan and his amazing team stopped those bad guys! And I helped! It was super awesomely cool!"
Lady giggled. "You did well, Eden! We meant it when we said you could be a rescuer one day!"
"Yeah, you stood up to those jerks like a true girlboss," Galena added.
"Did you all really say that?" Vivian asked, eyeing her son. "I should be cross… but I suppose you did protect Eden when it mattered. And while you went against my wishes, the girl is happy and no one is hurt. I'll let this go, but next time I expect you to be more careful."
Ivan smiled. "Next time, huh? I'm just glad you're letting there be a next time."
"Yeah! How else would I spend time with my super cool Uncle?" Eden remarked sweetly, batting her eyes at him.
Vivian looked down at her. "That's enough, missy. When we get home, I'm talking to your mother about that Baby-Doll Eyes act."
"Noooooooo, that's part of my charm!" the Snivy whined.
Galena chuckled. "Don't worry, Eden. Once a girlboss, always a girlboss. Even if you don't get to make Ivan run around for you, as fun as that is to see."
"Fiiiiiine," she conceded, her lower lip protruding.
Vivian cleared her throat, then stood up. "Regardless of what happened today, thank you for watching Eden. We should get going so we don't keep Ivan's uncles waiting."
"Okay, mom, thanks for bringing her! And sorry for all the stress," Ivan said as he rose as well.
Galena waved. "It was nice to see you ladies. Next time, we'll keep a closer eye out for chaos."
"Yes, I'd be ashamed to allow such a thing to happen again," Inti remarked. "If you entrust us again with her safety, we will be more careful."
"That is reassuring. Thank you, all," the Sceptile acknowledged.
Lady fanned her wings. "Of course! Eden is just too precious, we want the best for her too!"
"Now all that's left is to figure out how to explain this to her mother," Vivian sighed. "But that's for me to worry about. Now, we'll be heading out."
Eden hopped off her chair and walked up to Ivan. She gave him an enthusiastic hug. "Thanks, Uncle Ivan! I can't wait to see you again!"
He patted the Snivy on the head, her head leaves rustling. "Neither can I, Eden. Until next time."
She grinned, adjusted her scarf, then moved back to Vivian. The Sceptile walked to the door, Eden and Ivan following.
The Grovyle opened the door, allowing the Snivy to hop out and onto the dirt road. Vivian was also about to exit before she paused and turned to her son.
"Ivan… before I leave, I'd like to apologize," she whispered.
He raised a brow. "I don't see what you have to apologize for. I broke our agreement."
"Not about that, dear. I'm sorry about what I said earlier. About how worried I've been," Vivian explained. " I'm always going to worry. Because you're my only son. You're what I have left of your father." A tear began to form in the Sceptile's eye, which she quickly wiped away. Her smile then returned. "But you protected Eden and she came out of this with a big smile. Not unlike how you smiled when your father would come home and talk about his missions. It made me realize how much you've grown since you started rescuing."
Ivan's eyes widened in surprise. He sheepishly clacked his claws. "Oh. Well, thanks, mom! I didn't expect to hear that from you. I know you worry, and I love you for it. Though I'll admit I have gone overboard sometimes when it comes to my job."
"You can't help it, dear," Vivian remarked, gently putting a hand on his arm. "Your heart is big and brave, like your father's. That fact has worried me endlessly. But I should see it differently. That same heart protects you as well. It does a lot of good… your father would be proud."
She leaned in and kissed him on the forehead. "I'll be sure to write soon. Don't forget to write back too. Okay, sweetheart?"
"Absolutely. I wouldn't want to make my mother pull out more scales than I already have," Ivan said with a nod, his cheeks slightly red.
The Sceptile reached toward his scarf. She tidied it up so that it hung more proudly from his neck. Finally, she turned and stepped out the door.
Ivan exhaled softly before shutting it. He faced his team, who seemed to share his relief.
"Thanks for today, guys. Glad things turned out alright," the Grovyle said.
Inti shrugged. "I wish I had known what was going on. I would have certainly helped."
"It's okay, honey! You made it so Eden could relax with some tasty ice cream!" his wife assured. She then glanced at Galena, her eyes glistening worriedly. "Speaking of relaxing, are you okay now Galy? Did something happen earlier?"
The Goodra clenched her teeth and gazed at Ivan. The Grovyle bobbed his head at her before clearing his throat.
"I made sure Galena was alright. She'll explain what happened some other time," he remarked.
She exhaled, nodding back. 'Thanks, Ivan,' she mouthed.
"If you say so," the Druddigon murmured with a slight frown, though his expression quickly changed back to normal.
"Anyway… I was thinking about going to the library after dinner, but maybe a short evening training session would be in order," Ivan suggested, particularly glancing at Galena. " We could work on our most powerful moves! To let off some steam… and to feel a little stronger too."
"That's a lovely idea!" Lady agreed.
The Goodra smiled. "Yeah. That'd be nice, after today. Thanks, mister 'Uncle.'"
"No problem. After all, we all have things we need to work out. But as long as we've got each other's backs, we'll get through anything that's thrown at us," he assured, pumping his fist.
Galena copied the motion before letting out a small laugh. Lady beamed and raised an arm. Her husband, though tilting his head in confusion, eventually raised a fist too.
"Guess that Malamar was wrong. I see at least three reasons to stand strong here," the Goodra remarked confidently.
"A team gives each other strength! But be sure not to discount yourself!" Ivan reminded her.
'Just like how those that care about me give me strength.'
Special thanks to youngmanymca on PMDFF, FFN, and Ao3 for beta reading as always!
Aaaand shoutout to Solaris on PMDFF/Agent4Sol on Ao3, whose character Sol I referenced through the Braixen in the beginning. I've done a couple fic references like that, but since theirs is a relatively new fic and they're a good friend I thought I'd do one here. "The Sun Rises Once More" has only one chapter so far but I'd recommend it. Tis fun. /story/pokemon-mystery-dungeon-the-sun-rises-once-more/
But speaking of fun, hope you enjoyed! I bet you didn't expect a chapter called "Uncle Ivan" to focus partly on Galena! That's right, we're getting character arcs! Bet you didn't expect that either. In any case, stay tuned for more! Super excited about the next stretch of chapters.