Master Pokémon in a Cultivation World

Adrian woke up with a start, as though something had violently pulled him out of a deep sleep. He was lying on the ground, covered by what seemed to be a blanket of dry leaves and grass. His body still felt heavy, as though he had slept like a log. Around him, the air was fresh, and the only sound he could hear was the wind brushing against the leaves, but something felt off.

A small sigh escaped his lips as he tried to move, but a sharp pain made him stop. He didn't feel injured, but something about him felt... wrong. Looking around, he saw a completely unfamiliar landscape: gigantic trees with leaves that shimmered in iridescent tones, and the sky, while recognizable, seemed closer and more vibrant than he remembered.

"What…?" he murmured, raising a hand to his head and rubbing his eyes.

Instantly, something strange happened. An interface appeared in front of his eyes, glowing with an uncomfortable sense of familiarity. The screen filled with words blinking intensely.

[Welcome to the Pokémon System, Adrian Vieri. You are about to begin your journey as a Pokémon Creator.]

"What the hell?" Adrian blinked several times, trying to make sense of what he was seeing.

Before he could process the information, a new window appeared, this time showing a recognizable figure. It was an avatar that could easily pass as a flawless hologram. The voice that emanated from the screen was clear and calm, not sounding like a recording—it felt as though the person were speaking to him directly.

[I am the AI of the Pokémon System, created using information based on Professor Oak. You are currently in the world of Polaris, on the continent of Etherea Magna, more specifically, in the region of Vinterra. As a Pokémon Creator, your task is to navigate this world and create Pokémon to improve and protect the environment.]

Adrian blinked again. The last time he checked, he wasn't in any sort of alternate world, let alone involved in creating magical creatures. And did it just say this was his job?

"Polaris? Etherea Magna? Vinterra? Pokémon Creator? Pokémon System?" he muttered to himself. Was this some sort of cruel joke? It was hard to shake the feeling. Maybe it was all a hallucination brought on by exhaustion. Perhaps he was still dreaming.

How much was this job going to pay?

Suddenly, a vague memory hit him: he had been so tired from studying for his final exams that he fell asleep at his computer after taking a well-deserved break playing Devil May Cry 3. He clearly remembered the overwhelming exhaustion, how he had struggled to stay awake, and how at some point, the coffee mug near his keyboard had slipped. The hot liquid spilled, and then… darkness.

"Did I die?" he whispered, his thoughts drifting to the question that terrified him the most.

The system seemed to notice his confusion, and a new line of text appeared on the interface:

[Don't worry, Adrian. You're in a new world, and although your previous life has ended, you now have a fresh opportunity here as the Pokémon Creator. The path you choose will be yours.]

Adrian stood up, trying to take in the situation. His mind was clouded with confusion, but the environment felt real—too real.

He brought his hands to his head, attempting to organize his thoughts while walking slowly, taking his time to process everything.

The ground beneath his feet was covered in soft grass, and beyond it, he could see enormous trees, the kind that might make incredible treehouses… if he didn't have to worry about predators and other dangers. Their silver trunks shimmered as if reflecting the light of a nonexistent moon. The leaves swayed with a soft whisper, but there was something strange in the air: a palpable energy humming throughout the landscape.

This wasn't just a forest. There was something… more.

Suddenly, a flash in the sky caught his attention. He looked up and saw a series of dancing lights that seemed to move with their own intent, as if they were living creatures.

Upon closer inspection, he could see a bird similar to a falcon but much larger and more colorful, its body crackling with electricity as it fought another bird-like creature.

"Is this real?" he murmured to himself.

His mind was still struggling to grasp how he had ended up here.

Was this world the product of a mix between his wildest dreams and extreme exhaustion? Or had he truly transmigrated?

"Argh! Why does it have to be so damn troublesome?!" he exclaimed, clutching his head. Moments ago, he had been an average student just trying to make it through his last year of high school, and now, out of nowhere, he was in a dangerous world filled with people as stupid as they were perverse.

It was like that trip to Mexico with his parents—only much worse!

He let himself fall onto a nearby rock, tired of trying to find immediate answers. He needed time to think. The problem was that he didn't know whether he could trust what the system was telling him.

Wasn't it a common trope for the system to eventually betray its user, fulfilling some macabre purpose like turning them into cultivation material for some ancient being older than recorded history?

The worst part was thinking about how many damn clichés he would encounter from now on. Reflecting on this, he couldn't help but clasp his hands together in prayer.

'God, give me patience, because if you give me strength, I swear I'll kill them.'

The screen lit up again with a new notification:

[Would you like to receive additional information about this world and your abilities as a Pokémon Creator?]

Adrian didn't have to think too much. As any generic protagonist would say, beggars couldn't be choosers. After all, he had no choice but to trust the system until he had a better option for survival.

"Yes," he replied, and instantly, the screen displayed a detailed list of Pokémon, reminiscent of a Pokédex, along with instructions on how to create and train them using internal energy.

Adrian closed his eyes, trying with all his might to suppress the curse that wanted to escape his mouth.

"This cannot be real…" he whispered.

Adrian rubbed his eyes, attempting to process all the new information. His role wasn't just to be a Pokémon "creator"; he also had to cultivate his internal energy through a unique method: the Path of the Arcane Tamer. This cultivation system wasn't focused on him as the cultivator but rather on his Pokémon, whom he would have to guide, connect with, and strengthen through their bond.

There were special benefits. Apparently, he could achieve things similar to the cultivators in that Chinese novel Tales of Demons and Gods—if he remembered the name correctly. Of course, this would happen only after crossing a certain threshold with his abilities (he would never, ever call it "cultivation"; he felt like he'd lose something if he did) or obtaining it naturally through a close bond with his Pokémon.

The most curious thing about the Path of the Arcane Tamer was that it wasn't the typical fantasy cultivation method. It wasn't about accumulating power to enhance his own abilities but about strengthening the connection with the creatures Adrian created and the powerful bonds he would forge with them. Each Pokémon would be an extension of himself, and their potential would grow alongside his.

The system continued its explanation, ensuring Adrian fully understood his new "mission."

[Your internal energy—Qi, Aura, or however you prefer to call it—will not only be used to enhance your abilities but also to strengthen and connect with your Pokémon. As you progress through the stages of the Path of the Arcane Tamer, you will synchronize with them, sharing skills and powers in a unique symbiosis.]

Adrian, with a somewhat bewildered expression, looked at the six Pokéballs the system had given him, along with a special attribute that allowed him to infuse internal energy into common animals, transforming them into Pokémon through mutation and evolution. However, there was one clear rule: while he could create and enhance these Pokémon, he couldn't change their type or influence their evolution beyond trying to provide an environment that could deeply affect them. The creatures would take their own path, depending on their innate characteristics and the external conditions surrounding them.

Although there were certain exceptions, such as Pokémon whose evolutions were somewhat unique—those requiring affection, evolutionary stones, specific moves, or particular items.

And to top it off, he had also been given a very stylish backpack with nearly infinite space.

"I guess that sounds... reasonable," he said with a hint of sarcasm in his voice.

[Oh yes, I forgot to mention something.]

A sudden notification caught his attention.

[You are currently quite close to the nest of a venomous snake in the mid-stage of the Body Forging realm. Oh~ it seems to have recently had offspring, meaning it will be especially irritable and violent toward anyone approaching its territory. I strongly recommend fleeing as far away as possible.]

"F*ck." Without a second thought, Adrian ran as fast as he could to the edge of the forest. He didn't yet understand all the local cultivation levels or stages, but wasn't Body Forging usually considered a high level? And it was already at the mid-stage!

To make matters worse, it was a female with offspring. If he didn't flee immediately, he was sure he'd end up as its lunch.

....

After fleeing and finally reaching the outskirts of the forest, Adrian took a moment to rest and receive the system's starter package, which included materials and Pokéballs. Deciding to take a walk through the nearby plains, he hoped to find something useful.

After a few minutes of exploration, he came across what appeared to be a small injured rabbit, its leg damaged and its breathing weak.

[Species: Wild Rabbit]

[Status: Injured, vulnerable]

[Detected Affinities: Fire (primary), Fairy (secondary)]

[Evolutionary Potential: Extremely high. With the right energy, this rabbit can evolve into a Cinderace with dual Fire-Fairy affinities.]

"Hey, I don't know what to do... how do I help this little rabbit?"

[Adrian, remember that Pokémon, like any other living creature, need your care.]

"Even though it's not technically a Pokémon yet? And why did that sound so strangely unsettling? I'm not a furry, you know!"

[Recommendation: Use Fire-type energy to stabilize its base lineage and Fairy-type energy to create the foundation for a unique transformation.]

[According to the system's data, a dose of Fairy-type energy can help heal it. Don't forget to always keep a Ziu Berry handy, just in case.]

"A Ziu Berry? I'm... not sure what that is. And why would you recommend giving Fairy energy to a Fire-type Pokémon?"

[Ah, of course! According to system records, Fire and Fairy types have excellent synergy. This combination enhances their abilities, though it's not recommended in every case. Give it a try and let me know if it works!]

'Great. The system has a peculiar approach… but I guess it's better than nothing.'

Without overthinking it, he crouched down next to the animal, recalling the System's instructions on using energy to heal injuries.

Carefully, Adrian channeled his Fairy energy into the rabbit's wound. A soft glow enveloped the broken leg, and within moments, the injury began to heal as if it had never existed. The rabbit lifted its head with a surprised expression and shook its legs, seemingly fully healed.

The System, as always, seized the moment to send a notification.

[Congratulations! You have formed your first bond with a creature. This rabbit has great potential. If raised properly, it could evolve into something truly special.]

Adrian looked at the rabbit with a mixture of surprise and skepticism. If the System claimed it had "potential," it had to mean something significant. Although he didn't know exactly what that meant, it was clear something extraordinary was happening with this small creature.

"A rabbit that could become something special?" he murmured, almost incredulous. "Just how special could it be?"

At that moment, the System displayed more information about the newly created Pokémon.

[Scorbunny: Fire-type Pokémon]

[This Pokémon has shown an exceptional response to Fairy-type energy, which could influence its evolution. If cultivated properly, it could undergo a unique evolution, becoming a rare and powerful Cinderace variant.]

Adrian smiled with a hint of exhaustion, feeling like the situation was becoming more surreal by the minute.

"So, I have a Scorbunny that, apparently, could turn into some kind of special Cinderace? This is definitely getting interesting."

After that revelation, Adrian decided to try out one of the Pokéballs provided by the System. With a mix of anticipation and curiosity, he tossed the sphere toward the small rabbit. Instantly, the creature was absorbed into the Pokéball, disappearing inside.

Adrian watched the Pokéball sway gently, waiting for a sign. Finally, it emitted a bright flash, and when it opened, the rabbit reappeared before him. Adrian crouched down and extended his hand toward it.

"I guess you're officially my first Pokémon. Let's see how far we can go together, alright?"

The rabbit looked at him curiously and stepped closer, gently touching his hand with its tiny paw. Adrian, still amazed by what had just happened, felt a bond beginning to form between him and the creature. It wasn't just about energy; it was a genuine connection. The rabbit was accepting Adrian as its trainer.

This feeling… wasn't so bad, actually.

[Pokémon Creation Potential: The Pokémon creation process is not solely based on your abilities, but also on the environment, the animal, and its innate characteristics. The type and evolution of each creature depend on its potential, and the conversion process can influence its development. In the case of this Scorbunny, its ability to resonate with Fairy-type energy makes it an exceptional candidate for a Fire-Fairy variant of Cinderace. However, it's a complex process that will depend on its environment, care, and other factors.]

"This sounds like I'm raising something that could save my butt from a furious dragon or a possible crazy ice cultivator in the future," Adrian said, looking at the rabbit with newfound appreciation.

Anyone who had ever read a cultivation novel knew perfectly well how annoying dragons could be (not to mention they were a royal pain). With a potential Fairy type on his team, at least he had a countermeasure until he could find a stronger Fairy Pokémon.

.....

Days passed, and Adrian had managed to settle into a small, ramshackle cabin he had found on the outskirts of the forest.

It wasn't luxurious, but at least it offered shelter from the elements. There were a few rudimentary pieces of furniture, including a chair he had found near a village and a couple of rugs he had made from pelts collected from fallen or abandoned animals. A crude bed made of straw was also there; it wasn't the most comfortable, but it was enough to rest after a day of "training."

With Oak's help, he had identified which berries were edible and which were not, so neither he nor Scorbunny went too hungry.

"What kind of life is this?" he muttered, rubbing his temples as he looked at the empty cabin. It wasn't the life he had expected after transmigrating, but at least it wasn't a battlefield where he risked dying at every corner, which seemed to be the norm for protagonists in these stories.

His first Pokémon was resting by a small improvised campfire outside, enjoying the warmth. Since arriving in this world, Adrian had to learn quickly: the common animals he encountered weren't just animals. In this world, everything could become a magical creature with the right touch.

The System had been very clear about this: he could convert ordinary animals into Pokémon, but doing it properly required time and, most importantly, a great deal of care. Somehow, his method of internal energy cultivation—the Path of the Arcane Tamer—seemed to adapt to this new ability.

A notification from the System appeared before him.

[Congratulations, kid. You have begun the first stage of the Path of the Arcane Tamer: The Nascent Bond.]

"Yeah, sure. 'Nascent Bond.' Perfect. First, I'm just an ordinary guy, and now I'm an 'arcane tamer' of magical creatures," Adrian said sarcastically. "...Why does the name of my first stage sound like the title of a bad teen movie?" he muttered, covering his face with his hands.

[To progress, you must strengthen your bond with your Pokémon. The first step is to interact with it and understand its needs. The bond is not created overnight. Take good care of it, and you will see the fruits of your efforts.]

Adrian looked at Scorbunny, who seemed half-asleep, half-alert—a strange mix of unconsciousness and potential energy. It wasn't like the common animals he had known in his previous world. This was something different, something that felt... more.

"So, this is the beginning of my new life, huh? Having to make friends so they'll help me fight. Or maybe just so I don't starve to death," he joked as he approached his companion. A smile emerged on his face as he gently touched the rabbit's cheek.

It was soft and warm.

....

Days passed without much change. Adrian didn't dare venture far beyond the vicinity of the forest for now. Though he knew the outside world was dangerous, the bigger issue was his lack of knowledge about the surroundings and what he might encounter there. Moreover, he didn't have the resources or energy to go far from his makeshift cabin. He was a novice in this world, and that kept him grounded.

Unfortunately, the tranquility didn't last long. The next day, while Adrian was out looking for food, he stumbled upon a small group of creatures that didn't exactly scream "friendly."

In the distance, he saw a small flock of strange birds with plumage shimmering in shades of purple and blue—something he had never seen before. Instinctively, Adrian crouched down, hiding behind a fallen tree. The animals didn't seem like an immediate threat, but he wasn't an expert on magical creatures, and in a cultivation world of all things, one could never be too cautious.

His Scorbunny, however, didn't share his concerns. It leapt over the makeshift barricade and began approaching the birds without hesitation.

"Hey! Don't get too close!" Adrian shouted, worried.

The Pokémon ignored him, but Adrian soon understood why. The birds didn't look as intimidating as he had initially thought. They seemed more curious than aggressive. With a quick movement, Scorbunny released a small Ember attack to scare them off. The birds, startled, immediately took flight, but they weren't much of a challenge.

"Was that an attack?" Adrian asked, genuinely impressed. Honestly, he hadn't expected his Pokémon to adapt so quickly to its new characteristics after spending most of its life as an ordinary rabbit. Watching his Pokémon bounce around energetically with a satisfied smile, Adrian couldn't help but return the grin.

...

After that small confrontation, Adrian spent more time interacting with Scorbunny. In fact, the hours he spent outdoors near his cabin were not as dangerous as he had initially imagined. What surprised him the most, however, was his companion's ability to adapt so quickly.

The System instructed him to continue cultivating his internal energy, but instead of immediately venturing out into the dangerous world, Adrian chose to study and practice his connection with Scorbunny in a safe environment.

Three more days passed, and Adrian continued strengthening his bond with Scorbunny. He knew the journey would be long, but at least he now understood that he had more than just a "pet companion."

[Your bond with Scorbunny has strengthened!]

[You have successfully reached the intermediate sub-stage of the Nascent Bond.]

"Are you ready for what's next, Scorbunny? Because I..." Adrian paused, gazing at the horizon. "I'm sure this is only going to get crazier."

.....

Three days after bonding with Scorbunny, Adrian ventured further beyond the limits of his cabin. Although he knew the forest was dangerous, his lack of supplies and curiosity pushed him to search for new resources and possibly some information about this strange world.

Not far away, he found what seemed to be a small settlement. From his position, he caught fragments of conversations among the locals. Their tones varied: some were clearly scared, while others seemed more frustrated than concerned.

"They say that damned thieving fox has appeared again. Last night, it tricked an entire patrol into falling into a mud pit!" said a merchant.

"That blasted fox again! It stole all my food!" shouted a man wearing a straw hat, slamming an improvised table.

"They say it's a Kitsune incarnate, toying with us before unleashing its true power," said another, in a more superstitious tone.

"Bah, it's just a lucky animal. If I get my hands on it, I'll turn it into a pair of gloves," commented another man, laughing darkly.

Adrian, who had been considering heading back, felt his interest pique when he overheard talk of a "mischievous fox." It wasn't the first time he'd heard about magical creatures in this world, and something about the description reminded him of a certain Pokémon known for its pranks.

'A fox? It could be a good candidate' he thought, glancing at Scorbunny, who was calmly but cautiously following him.

Scorbunny seemed uncomfortable under the heated stares of the small children in the area.

Hmm, it seemed to be true what they said: having a charming companion attracted a lot of envious looks... especially from annoyed parents who tried to negotiate acquiring his Scorbunny through barter or payment.

Of course, he refused, though he did feign a little interest. He couldn't deny it was rather amusing to see Scorbunny's face make an expression that seemed to scream, "I thought we were friends!"

Putting that aside.

Rumors indicated that the fox often appeared near an abandoned shrine in the hills, a place everyone avoided due to superstition. Adrian, of course, decided it was an opportunity too good to pass up.

.....

The shrine was shrouded in an eerie atmosphere. The trees around it seemed taller and more twisted, and the mist covering the ground did nothing to calm Adrian's nerves.

"Why do I always end up in places that look like they're straight out of a horror movie?" he muttered, adjusting his backpack as Scorbunny stared at him with an expression that almost seemed to say, "This is your fault."

The moment he stepped into the shrine, Adrian felt something was off. The air seemed heavy, as though he was being watched from every angle. Then he saw it: a swift, dark figure moving among the shadows.

"Is that you, little fox?" Adrian asked, trying to sound more confident than he actually felt.

The figure reappeared, this time closer. It was a fox with reddish-black fur and golden eyes that gleamed with an unusual intelligence. But the most striking feature was the mocking expression on its face, as if it was sizing Adrian up and finding him... lacking.

Before Adrian could say anything else, the scenery around him changed. Where there were once ruins, there was now a field covered in golden flowers.

"What the hell?" Adrian stepped back, but the illusion was startlingly convincing.

Scorbunny reacted immediately, launching a small ember at the ground, disrupting part of the illusion. The fox clicked its tongue, clearly annoyed by the interruption.

"So, you're not as dumb as you look, huh?" the fox said, its feminine voice resonating directly in Adrian's mind. It sounded roughly his age.

"Are you... talking?" Adrian asked, incredulous.

The fox huffed, flashing a sly grin.

"No, it's your imagination. Of course, I'm talking. But I doubt you understand what it means to encounter someone like me."

"A fox that plays with illusions? Let me guess, you're a Kitsune in training or something," Adrian retorted, crossing his arms. It was a pretty standard cliché in both Chinese and Japanese novels.

The fox tilted its head as if considering its response.

"Something like that. But I don't need to explain my story to you. Just know this is my territory, and you're not welcome here."

With a snap of its teeth, the illusion shifted again, and Adrian found himself surrounded by trees that seemed to move on their own. Scorbunny, however, wasn't intimidated. It jumped forward, launching another ember that dispelled part of the illusion.

The fox stepped back, more surprised than irritated.

"Hmm... Not bad for a mere human and his dumb bunny pet. But that doesn't mean you can beat me," it said, baring a defiant grin.

What followed were some of the most boring hours of Adrian's life, almost comparable to that one time he was forced to accompany his cousin to watch Batman v Superman.

...

Adrian, tired of the back-and-forth, decided to take the initiative.

"Listen, fox,"—he never thought he'd say those words without immediately getting slapped by a woman afterward—"I didn't come here to fight you. In fact, I think we could help each other."

The fox eyed him suspiciously.

"Help me? You? A talentless human?"

"Look, I might not seem like much, but I have something no one else in this world does," Adrian said, showing a small spark of internal energy in his palm.

The fox observed with interest, tilting its head.

"This... isn't common Qi," it murmured, cautiously stepping closer.

Adrian took the opportunity to explain his ability to transform animals into Pokémon and how, with her Kitsune lineage, she could reach a new level of power. Though initially skeptical, curiosity eventually won out.

"Fine. Let's see if you're as good as you say. But if this is a trap, I swear I'll turn your mind into a labyrinth you'll never escape, and even if you do, your brain will definitely be mush," she threatened, though her tone had a playful edge.

Adrian focused his internal energy, carefully infusing it into the fox. The process was more complex than with Scorbunny, likely due to the animal's unique lineage. However, after a few tense moments, a bluish light enveloped the fox.

When the light faded, a shiny black Zorua stood before him, its expression a mix of curiosity and amusement.

"Well, human, it seems you really do have something special. I suppose I can tolerate you... for now."

Adrian let out a sigh of relief, looking at his second Pokémon.

'Great, now I have a companion who will probably get me into even more trouble than I'm already in' he thought with a wry smile. 'At least she'll make up for it by using her illusions to disguise my appearance and clothing, making it harder for me to draw attention.'

.....

Back at his makeshift cabin, Adrian was already starting to regret adding Zorua to his team. The little fox had spent the entire way back creating illusions to confuse Scorbunny, who wasn't exactly thrilled about her new companion.

"For Arceus's sake, Zorua, stop it!" Adrian shouted after the fourth consecutive illusion turned his straw bed into a pile of snakes.

Zorua burst into laughter as she lounged in a corner, clearly enjoying the chaos she had caused.

"What? I'm just testing my abilities. Isn't that what Pokémon are supposed to do?" she said with a sly grin.

"Technically, yes, but maybe you could tone it down a bit," Adrian explained, pointing at Scorbunny, who was visibly irritated, her ears perked and small sparks of fire flicking off her feet.

"Oh, relax, carrot breath," Zorua said, rolling her eyes.

Scorbunny responded by launching a small Ember attack toward Zorua, who dodged it gracefully.

'Great! Now I have two companions trying to destroy each other. This is just like when I had to share a room with my cousins—they really took the family prank war on New Year's way too seriously' Adrian thought with a sigh, collapsing onto his makeshift bed as he tried to come up with a way to keep peace in his increasingly peculiar team.

At that moment, the System decided to intervene, displaying a new notification in front of Adrian:

[New Mission: Strengthen teamwork between your Pokémon. Complete a training activity that encourages cooperation. Reward: Hidden ability unlocked for one of your Pokémon.]

Adrian blinked as he read the message.

"Teamwork? Sure, that should be easy... if I didn't have an explosive bunny and a deceitful fox in the same place," he muttered sarcastically.

Scorbunny and Zorua, as if they'd understood his thoughts, both looked at him at the same time—one with pride, the other with mischief.

.....

Determined to complete the mission (and avoid his companions destroying each other), Adrian improvised a small training course near the cabin. Using rocks, branches, and ropes, he set up a basic circuit that required Scorbunny and Zorua to work together to complete the challenges.

"Alright, here's what we're going to do," Adrian said, gesturing enthusiastically at the course.

Scorbunny seemed intrigued, though not entirely convinced, while Zorua yawned dramatically.

"Do you seriously expect me to do this?" Zorua asked, sitting with an air of indifference.

"Yes, because if you don't, you won't get any more food," Adrian replied with a bright smile.

Zorua scoffed but eventually stood up, ready to participate.

.....

As expected, the training was a disaster from the start.

In the first challenge, which involved moving a large rock using a log as a lever, Scorbunny tried to do it alone while Zorua pretended to help but actually did nothing.

"Zorua, at least pretend you're helping!" Adrian shouted as the fox created an illusion of herself moving the rock while the real one lounged on a branch watching the scene.

In the second challenge, which required crossing a small stream using a log as a bridge, Zorua decided to prank Scorbunny by creating an illusion of the log breaking under her paws. Furious, Scorbunny launched an Ember attack at Zorua, who escaped laughing.

"This isn't training—it's a circus!" Adrian exclaimed, clutching his head in frustration.

However, in the final challenge, something changed. Adrian had tied a rope high up in a tree and asked Scorbunny and Zorua to bring it down together. The task seemed simple but required coordination.

Scorbunny jumped first, trying to reach the rope, but it was too high. Zorua, on the other hand, used an illusion to create what looked like a long log connecting the ground to the rope.

"That's cheating," Adrian muttered, though he couldn't help but be impressed by Zorua's creativity.

Surprisingly, Scorbunny accepted the help of the illusion and, using the "log" as support, managed to reach the rope and pull it down successfully. The two Pokémon shared a brief but meaningful glance before returning to the ground together.

"See? That's teamwork!" Adrian said, throwing his arms up in victory.

Scorbunny and Zorua simply gave him disdainful looks, but it seemed they had found a small point of understanding.

When the training ended, the System displayed a new notification:

[Mission Complete. Reward Unlocked: Zorua has gained the hidden ability "Amplified Illusion."]

Adrian smiled, satisfied with the result.

"Well, at least something went right today," he murmured as he looked at his two companions.

....

What seemed like a peaceful day…

Adrian, Scorbunny, and Zorua had managed to establish a sort of truce after their chaotic training session. The makeshift cabin was slightly more tolerable now that the two Pokémon seemed less hostile toward each other. Or so Adrian thought, until Zorua decided it would be fun to steal Scorbunny's food and hide it behind an illusion of a giant tree.

"Zorua! Are you pulling this nonsense again?" Adrian shouted as he tried to calm Scorbunny, who was already launching small Ember attacks into the air in protest.

Why did his poor, innocent hands have to pay the price for their conflict?

Zorua, as always, simply laughed and gave him an innocent look.

"This isn't going to last long if things keep up like this…" Adrian muttered as he tried to restore order to the small chaos his daily life had become.

However, before Adrian could refocus on his tasks, something changed in the atmosphere. The air grew heavier, and a strange roar echoed in the distance.

Scorbunny was the first to react, standing up and facing the forest with her ears perked. Even Zorua, who always seemed laid-back, wore a serious expression.

"That doesn't sound like something I'd want to invite for tea," Adrian quipped, trying to lighten the mood as he grabbed a Pokéball from his backpack just in case.

The roar grew louder, and from the trees emerged a creature Adrian had never seen before: a massive wolf with glowing eyes and dark gray fur that seemed to absorb the surrounding light. Its body was scarred all over, and its size was nearly twice that of a normal wolf.

"Well, this just got interesting," Adrian said, though inwardly he was thinking, 'How the hell do I get out of this?'

The wolf wasted no time attacking. With a quick motion, it lunged at Adrian, but Scorbunny jumped in front of him, launching a burst of flames to deflect the attack. Zorua, on the other hand, created an illusion that made it appear as though multiple Adrians were running in different directions, momentarily confusing the beast.

"Nice work!" Adrian shouted, surprised by how quickly his companions reacted. It seemed yesterday's training wasn't a total waste.

However, the wolf was more resilient than he had anticipated. Even after taking several hits, it continued its assault with relentless ferocity.

"This isn't going to work if we stay on the defensive…" Adrian muttered, trying to come up with a plan.

That's when he remembered what the System had mentioned about his Pokémon's unique abilities.

"Zorua, use your Amplified Illusion to create a distraction! Scorbunny, get ready for a direct attack!"

Zorua nodded, and within seconds, the wolf was surrounded by a dozen illusory copies of itself, all growling in unison. Confused, the wolf began attacking the air, trying to locate the real enemy.

Taking advantage of the chaos, Scorbunny leapt into the air and unleashed a powerful burst of flames directly at the wolf, striking its side and forcing it to stagger back with a growl.

Although injured, the wolf showed no signs of giving up. Adrian could tell his Pokémon were starting to tire, and he himself had no combat abilities to help directly.

Then he noticed something strange in the creature's eyes. They didn't show rage but fear.

"Wait a second… You're protecting something, aren't you?" Adrian murmured, more to himself than to his companions.

Cautiously, he raised his hands in a gesture of surrender and stepped forward.

"Listen, we don't want to hurt you any more than this. If you're protecting something, we won't touch it. We just want to pass through," he said.

The wolf growled but didn't attack immediately. Adrian seized the moment and channeled a small amount of his fairy-type energy, projecting it toward the wolf as a minor healing gesture of peace. The creature watched the light warily but eventually backed away, disappearing into the trees.

"That was… way too close," Adrian said, collapsing to the ground as Scorbunny and Zorua gave him looks that seemed to say, "Did you seriously just do that?"

Back at the cabin, Adrian tried to process what had just happened.

"Well, that was officially my first encounter with a magical beast… and I think I'd prefer to avoid them in the future," he said, tending to Scorbunny and Zorua's minor injuries.

The System displayed a notification:

[Reward: Additional exp for your Pokémon and a new level unlocked in the Path of the Arcane Tamer.]

"Well, at least something good came out of this," Adrian said with a small smile to his companions.

This experience taught him a valuable lesson: he couldn't rely solely on his Pokémon's strength. He would also need to learn to read situations and come up with creative solutions if he wanted to survive in this world.

---

The next day, while Adrian was attempting to improve the cabin (mainly to ensure it didn't collapse), he was interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching from the forest. Though his first instinct was to hide, he soon realized it wasn't a magical beast but an elderly man carrying a wooden basket on his back.

"Young man!" the old man called out, his voice surprisingly strong for his age.

Adrian, wary, stayed silent for a moment before emerging from his makeshift hiding spot.

"What do you want?" he asked, trying not to sound too curt.

The old man smiled, revealing a few remaining teeth, but his eyes gleamed with cunning.

"I saw your little performance in the forest yesterday. That wolf isn't easy to scare off, but you and your… creatures? You handled it pretty well."

A cold sweat ran down Adrian's back. 'Had he been watching? Oh, great. How could he not attract attention while traveling with two strange and impressive-looking creatures?'

"I don't know what you're talking about," Adrian said, attempting to sound casual.

The old man chuckled.

"Relax, boy. I'm not here to accuse you of anything. On the contrary, I think you've got talent, and it would be a shame to waste it. You should come to the Whispering Market. There are things there you might find interesting."

Adrian raised an eyebrow.

'The Whispering Market? Doesn't that sound like something out of a third-rate mafia movie?' he thought, watching the old man walk away. 'This kind of thing would definitely be up my dad's alley.'

The old man didn't say anything else directly but dropped a small wooden amulet into Adrian's hand before departing.

Adrian spent the rest of the day debating whether he should go. He knew interactions with people in this world could be dangerous, especially for someone like him who was hiding his true power.

"What do you two think?" he asked Scorbunny and Zorua, who stared back at him with equally puzzled expressions.

Finally, curiosity won out. That night, using the amulet as a guide, Adrian followed a path illuminated by paper lanterns to a clearing in the forest. There, he found a sight that left him speechless.

The Whispering Market was organized chaos: makeshift stalls made of wood, fabric, and bones displayed all sorts of goods, from weapons to strange herbs that glowed in the dark. The vendors were just as varied: humans, hooded figures, and even what appeared to be magical beasts speaking the common tongue.

"Is this… legal?" Adrian muttered as Scorbunny and Zorua walked beside him, equally fascinated.

As he explored, he was drawn to a stall run by a silver-haired woman wearing a dark dress embroidered with strange symbols. At the center of the stall was a cage containing a strange bird with iridescent feathers.

"Ah, young outsider. I see you have an interesting aura," said the woman, looking at Adrian with an enigmatic smile.

"Aura? I don't know what you're talking about. I'm just… exploring," Adrian replied, trying to sound indifferent.

The woman laughed softly.

"Of course, of course. But let me warn you about something: in this market, the most valuable currency isn't always gold. Here, we trade in secrets, promises, and sometimes even wishes."

A shiver ran down Adrian's spine.

'Great, now I'm in a magical market that's basically Las Vegas with extra steps. Mom would kill me if she knew.'

Scorbunny and Zorua, who had been silently observing until now, began sniffing at a small chest on the stall.

"What's that?" Adrian asked, pointing to the chest.

The woman opened it, revealing a gem that glowed with a golden light.

"This is a Fragment of Golden Light. It's a rare catalyst that can amplify the internal energy of magical creatures, helping them evolve in unexpected ways."

Adrian couldn't help but think of Scorbunny and Zorua and how this could help unlock more of their potential… not to mention the pleading eyes Scorbunny was giving him.

"How much is it?" he asked cautiously.

The woman smiled but didn't name a price.

"I don't want your gold, young man. What I want is… a promise."

Adrian frowned.

"What kind of promise?"

"Promise me that when you discover the true power behind your creatures, you'll return here and share what you've learned with me."

Adrian hesitated. He didn't like the idea of making promises in this world, but the chance to obtain something so valuable was tempting. Finally, he nodded.

"Alright. You have my word."

The woman handed him the gem, and Adrian quickly left, already feeling like he'd made a deal he would regret later.

"Damn it, I got carried away!" he yelled, unsure whether to laugh or cry.

How could I fall for something so stupid?

....

Back at his cabin, Adrian examined the gem while Scorbunny and Zorua watched it with fascination.

"Well, girls, it looks like we have a new toy," he said, letting the gem's golden light illuminate the room.

Though he wasn't entirely sure how to use it, he felt confident that as an Arcane Tamer, he could figure out a purpose for an object meant to aid in evolutions, right?

"I guess going to the market wasn't such a bad idea… for now," he muttered, though part of him couldn't shake the feeling that the price of that promise would be higher than he expected.

Ugh, I seriously want to punch my past self for getting swept up in the market's atmosphere.

....

Adrian stared at the golden gem with a mix of fascination and concern. Its glow was hypnotic, but he had no idea how to use it or what effects it might have on his Pokémon. Although the System hadn't mentioned anything about it, it seemed logical that something so rare must have some practical use.

"Alright, who wants to go first?" he asked nervously, holding up the gem.

Scorbunny stepped forward, her eyes gleaming with interest. Zorua, on the other hand, let out an exaggerated yawn and curled up in a corner, clearly more interested in her own affairs.

"Perfect. One volunteer and one spectator. This is how all great experiments begin."

Following his instincts (and perhaps a bit of his improvised skill as an Arcane Tamer), Adrian allowed his energy to flow into the gem. The object began to shine more intensely, releasing small sparks of light from its surface.

The light enveloped Scorbunny, who closed her eyes as a warm aura surrounded her. Adrian watched, wide-eyed, unsure whether to stop or let the process continue. The gem seemed to react to both Adrian's internal energy and Scorbunny's natural potential, creating a unique connection.

Suddenly, the light disappeared, and Scorbunny opened her eyes. There were noticeable changes: the edges of her white fur had taken on a slight pinkish hue, and golden highlights adorned her ears. Adrian could also sense that something about her felt different.

"You feeling okay?" he asked, kneeling to examine her.

Scorbunny nodded energetically, bouncing around before launching a stronger-than-usual Ember into the air.

"That's… new," Adrian said, impressed by the intensity of the attack. "Wait! Stop! You'll burn down the cabin!"

The System displayed a notification:

[Scorbunny has unlocked the hidden ability "Fairy Flames." This ability combines its fire energy with a faint fairy resonance, allowing for more versatile attacks.]

"See, Zorua? You could have something like this if you showed a little more interest in participating!" Adrian teased, turning his attention to the fox.

Zorua gave him a disdainful look before rolling her eyes.

"Yeah, sure. And what if it turns me into a walking torch? No thanks. Besides, gold isn't my color."

...

Adrian spent the rest of the day testing Scorbunny's new ability. While the combination of fire and fairy-type energy was powerful, it required a level of control that neither of them had mastered yet. The first time they tried using it on a small log, the result was a minor explosion that left Adrian covered in soot.

"Perfect! Now I can officially add 'test dummy' to my résumé," he said, coughing while wiping his face.

Despite the setbacks, he couldn't help but feel excited. This was the first real indication that his Pokémon could reach a level of power and specialization that would make them much stronger and better than their canonical counterparts.

However, not everything was so simple. That night, as Adrian tried to sleep, he couldn't stop thinking about the deal he had made at the Whispering Market. The woman at the stall had been kind, sure, but something about her smile had unsettled him.

'What did she mean by "the true power of your creatures"?' he wondered, staring at the ceiling.

He knew this world was full of secrets and dangers—and especially crazy people. While his abilities as an Arcane Tamer were unique, blending similarities and differences with the beast tamers native to this world, they weren't all advantages. They also made him a potential target for those in power who might want to exploit his skills if they discovered the extent of what he could do.

'All I can do is keep moving forward. For now, I just need to focus on strengthening these two lunatics,' he thought, glancing at Scorbunny and Zorua, who were sleeping peacefully near the rustic fireplace he had managed to build.

....

The next morning, while gathering firewood near his cabin, Adrian heard a strange sound, like the distant echo of something metallic. Intrigued, he followed the noise until he found a small crack in the ground, barely visible among the roots of a tree.

"What's this?" he asked, kneeling to inspect the crevice.

Carefully, he began clearing away dirt and roots, revealing what seemed to be the entrance to an underground structure. A stone staircase descended into darkness, and the air wafting from it was cold and damp.

"Great. Because exploring ancient ruins always ends well," he muttered, sighing as he looked at his companions.

Scorbunny seemed excited, hopping around the entrance, while Zorua approached cautiously, sniffing the air. Even a fool could tell she was intrigued by the exploration.

"Alright. This might be dangerous, but if we stick together, maybe we'll find something useful—or at least something that doesn't try to kill us," he joked, though his tone betrayed some nervousness.

With one last look at the outside world, Adrian lit a makeshift torch and began descending, followed closely by his Pokémon.

As they went down the stairs, the air grew heavier, and a faint hum reverberated through the walls. Though he didn't know what he would find in the depths, Adrian was certain this was just the beginning of a new chapter in his adventure.

'Well, at least it's not another giant wolf… I think,' he thought, moving cautiously into the darkness with Scorbunny and Zorua by his side.

.....

They descended the stairs carefully, Adrian lighting the way with his improvised torch. Scorbunny bounced beside him enthusiastically, while Zorua trailed behind, inspecting every corner with interest.

"Why is there always a mysterious cave in these stories whenever the protagonist settles far away from civilization?" Adrian murmured, trying to break the oppressive silence. "Couldn't it be a castle full of free food or a magical spa? No, it has to be a stupid damp cave that smells like mold."

Zorua huffed, seemingly amused.

"Maybe you'll find a magic ring that makes you less annoying," she quipped.

Adrian sighed.

"Yeah, sure. And I bet there's also a dragon guarding treasure down here, because that's never been done before."

After a few minutes of walking, the group arrived at a large chamber illuminated by glowing crystals embedded in the walls. At the center of the room was a pedestal holding what appeared to be an ancient medallion.

"Oh, yeah. This screams 'death trap,'" Adrian commented, cautiously approaching the pedestal. "Let me guess: If I touch it, the ceiling collapses, or a giant golem appears out of nowhere. Or maybe a giant rolling boulder comes to crush us."

Scorbunny hopped onto the pedestal, sniffing the medallion, while Zorua observed from a safe distance, her tail twitching as if expecting the worst.

"Thanks for your bravery, Zorua. You're a real pillar of support," Adrian joked, rolling his eyes.

"I'd rather be a living pillar than a squashed one," Zorua retorted, her tone dripping with sarcasm.

Finally, Adrian carefully picked up the medallion. To his surprise, nothing happened. No golems, no traps, no magical explosions.

"Well, that was anticlimactic," he said, examining the object more closely.

The medallion bore inscriptions he couldn't read, but the System quickly displayed a notification:

[Resonant Energy Medallion: An ancient artifact that amplifies the synchronization between a Tamer and their magical creatures.]

Adrian raised an eyebrow.

"Synchronization? Is this another cliché? Am I about to summon a special power using cheesy lines?" he asked aloud.

Scorbunny ignored him entirely, leaping off the pedestal, while Zorua finally approached to inspect the medallion.

"Is it safe?" the fox asked, eyeing the object warily.

"As safe as walking barefoot in this place or slapping a spoiled rich kid named something like Longhuang," Adrian replied, stuffing it into his backpack.

Just as Adrian turned to head back the way they came, a roar echoed through the chamber. The opposite wall began to tremble, and a fissure slowly opened, revealing a massive creature that looked like a cross between a lizard and a ram, with twisted horns and eyes glowing like embers.

"Of course. It wouldn't be a magical cave without a giant guardian," Adrian said, backing away as he grabbed a sharpened branch he had improvised as a spear days before.

Scorbunny and Zorua quickly positioned themselves in front of him, ready for battle.

"Alright, time to prove we're not just low-level noobs," Adrian said, trying to sound more confident than he felt.

The creature charged at them with surprising speed, forcing Adrian and his companions to scatter.

"Zorua, use an illusion to distract it!" Adrian shouted as he narrowly dodged an attack.

Zorua created a series of illusionary clones surrounding the beast, momentarily confusing it. Scorbunny seized the opportunity to launch a burst of "Fairy Flames" directly at the guardian's eyes, causing it to recoil with a pained roar.

"That's it! Keep it up!" Adrian said, feeling a flicker of hope.

But the creature seemed more enraged than injured. With an unexpected leap, it shattered Zorua's illusions and unleashed a massive attack that left Adrian and his Pokémon separated.

"This is worse than a raid boss on hard mode!" Adrian yelled, tossing aside the remains of his improvised spear as he struggled to regain control of the situation.

Adrian remembered the medallion in his backpack. He had no idea how it worked, but if it amplified synchronization, maybe it could help him coordinate Scorbunny and Zorua better.

"I hope I don't regret this…" he muttered, holding the medallion and channeling his energy into it.

The object began to glow, and both Scorbunny and Zorua seemed to react instantly. Their movements became more fluid, almost as if they could anticipate each other's actions.

Scorbunny leaped into the air, launching a burst of flames at the creature, while Zorua used her illusions to guide the enemy directly into the attack. The guardian, unable to keep up, finally collapsed with a final roar.

"Yes! We did it!" Adrian shouted, raising his arms in victory.

Scorbunny and Zorua returned to his side, clearly exhausted but satisfied.

"That was… impressive. But if we can avoid another encounter like this, I'd appreciate it," Adrian said, collapsing onto the floor.

As they recovered, he couldn't help but laugh to himself.

"You know, this fighting thing could actually be fun if I weren't constantly on the brink of death doing it."

Zorua rolled her eyes while Scorbunny gave him a playful nudge, as if agreeing.

"Well, let's get out of here before something else decides to show up," Adrian said, getting up and heading toward the exit.

.....

Adrian exited the cavern/treasure room/abandoned dungeon feeling like he had just run a marathon on a scorching day. Scorbunny and Zorua followed behind him, visibly exhausted but proud of their teamwork.

"Well, we did it. See? We're an amazing team!" Adrian declared, though his triumphant smile faltered as he remembered how close they'd come to being crushed by the guardian.

Zorua let out an exaggerated yawn.

"If this is what being 'amazing' looks like, I'd rather not imagine what happens when we're mediocre," she remarked, while Scorbunny simply nodded with drooping ears, clearly ready for a break.

Adrian sighed, dropping his backpack to the ground as he gazed at the night sky.

"I won't lie. That was horrible. But at least we got something useful, right?" he said, pulling the synchronization medallion from his bag.

The object still glowed faintly, as if holding onto some of the energy they had generated during the battle. Adrian held it up, admiring its intricate design.

"I hope you're worth it, because we almost died for you," he said before tucking it back into his bag.

...

That night, back in his cabin, Adrian lit the fire in the makeshift fireplace as Scorbunny and Zorua rested nearby. The flames cast dancing shadows across the wooden walls, creating a warm and cozy atmosphere.

"This is just the beginning, isn't it?" he asked quietly, glancing at his companions.

Scorbunny lifted her head, looking directly into his eyes as if trying to convey something words couldn't. Zorua, meanwhile, simply rolled onto her back, letting out a soft, contented growl.

'Yeah, I get it. I'm stuck in a world that feels like it came straight out of a cultivation novel, with a system that throws dumb missions at me and zero instruction manual,' he thought, letting out a bitter laugh. 'Why couldn't I have transmigrated to a more peaceful slice-of-life story?'

The System, as if hearing him, emitted a notification.

[Mission Completed: First Challenge of the Arcane Tamer's Path]

[Reward: Increased affinity with your Pokémon and access to new System functions]

Adrian raised an eyebrow.

"'New functions'? Please tell me that includes a map, because I'm sure we're going to get lost sooner or later."

The System screen filled with text, displaying a list of unlocked tools:

[Basic Map: Displays the surrounding area with limited information]

[Creature Registry: Details the characteristics and abilities of encountered beasts]

[Material Guide: Helps identify useful resources in the environment]

"Well, this... isn't so bad," Adrian admitted, though his tone was still laced with skepticism.

...

While his companions slept, Adrian stood by the cabin window, gazing at the stars. He knew this world was dangerous, but it also held potential. If he could survive and learn to control his abilities, maybe he could do more than just fight for his life.

'Maybe I can create something different here. A place where everything isn't just about power and greed,' he thought, recalling the Pokémon Leagues and gym challenges he had loved in his previous world.

The thought made him smile. It was just a dream for now, but perhaps it could become a reality in the future once he was strong enough.

'Alright, Polaris. Get ready, because Adrian Vieri doesn't plan on staying a mere spectator.'

.....

When the sun began to rise, Adrian woke up with renewed determination. His cabin, though modest, now felt like a worthy refuge. His Pokémon, though still somewhat inexperienced, were showing impressive progress.

"Alright. Time to plan our next move," he said, waking up Scorbunny and Zorua, who gave him tired, slightly annoyed looks.

The System emitted another notification, this time with a title that made him frown.

[Mission: Investigate the appearance of an unknown creature nearby]

"Of course, I can't have a peaceful day, can I?" Adrian said, sighing as he got to his feet.

Scorbunny hopped excitedly, while Zorua simply stared at him with a mix of exasperation and curiosity.

"Alright. Let's see what new madness awaits us. But this time, can you try not to scare me to death?"

With a mix of enthusiasm and resignation, Adrian and his team ventured into the forest, ready to face whatever awaited them.

*******************************************************************************

I'll be honest, I don't even know why I wrote this. Well, beyond the fact that it was something I discussed with some friends a few months ago while talking about ideas for potential stories.

Anyway, for this story, I'm basically aiming for something like Epic of the Idiots in terms of being more of a parody than anything else, but poking fun at cultivation novels and Chinese Pokémon fanfics that include common elements from cultivation stories.

It's not bad, right?

Current regions (maybe I'll add more in the future, who knows):

Longhuang:

Based on Chinese culture.

Tenryu:

Japanese-inspired.

Taeguksa:

Inspired by South Korea.

Aurelion:

A region heavily influenced by medieval and Greco-Roman culture.

Vinterra:

A hybrid region blending elements from all the aforementioned cultures, located in the center of the continent.

Mirzakh:

Inspired by elements of Persia and desert lands.