[Koa Leilani]

Before he began his gym challenge journey, Koa decided it was best to first investigate some leads on the Aura. It's been years since he awakened to the ability, but he's only ever been able to manifest it under situations of extreme stress and almost always left him exhausted afterwards. He needed to learn more about it so he could better control it. Maybe even figure out other applications for it.

After asking around Birch for a while, he heard rumors that there was a pack of Aura using Pokemon wandering Route 7. That was enough of a reason to immediately head out. He had Toki out with him, his other Pokemon resting comfortably in their Pokeballs. Toki had displayed Aura skills before, so he figured this would be an excellent opportunity for him as well. First on the agenda was finding this group of Pokemon, and he certainly wouldn't find them on a well-traveled road. He would have to go off track and walk along the nearby cliffs. Maybe they were training in a cave or open plateau somewhere.

Thankfully the path wasn't too treacherous. The training he did to pass the ranger exam definitely paid off here as he traveled along the safest path. He was admittedly nervous. What would he learn? Would they even teach him? He had to keep going if he wanted to find out. He took a moment to admire the scenery. Birch City looked amazing from up here, as did the other routes in the distance. It really made him appreciate the scale of everything and how far he travels every day. Toki was also admiring the sights. He stayed in one place for so long, that actually traveling around the world was an enlightening experience. Together with Koa, he felt that he could do anything. He pat at Koa's leg and happily gestured for them to keep moving "Okay, let's get going, Toki. Someone's excited for an adventure." He said with a smile at the Mienfoo.

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-----

Koa is searching for Aura using Pokemon alongside his Mienfoo, Toki.

Toki (Mienfoo), Level 15, 5/5

Word Count: 334

[Jenesis]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

You hear some rustling in the tall grass as you pass by. Perhaps it's the Pokemon you're looking for?

[Koa Leilani]

Upon hearing the rustling, Koa looked around for the source of the sound. He saw some movement in the tall grass nearby and went to investigate, pushing through the grass and watching his step as not to accidentally step on anything. He heard Toki call up to him, so he reached down to hoist Toki onto his shoulders so he could get a better look too.

If these Pokemon really did travel in packs, they shouldn't be that difficult to spot. In theory, anyway. They could be hidden away anywhere or constantly on the move so he couldn't be completely certain. It seemed like he was making some decent progress in his search at least, so that was a glimmer of hope during this investigation.

Together, he and Toki kept an eye out for more movement while making sure to stick to a relatively safe path. They were officially off the main route now, so anything goes now. He would have to be extra careful otherwise he and Toki could get into trouble with the slightest misstep. This was still exciting, however. He could be just moments away from understanding just what this ability of his was and how he could best use it to help others. Plus, it felt like a real adventure to search for a band of supposed Aura using Pokemon.

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----

Toki (Mienfoo), Level 15, 5/5

Word Count: 224
Total: 558

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

On the rugged terrain, you are quick to get turned around. A couple of trees actually look nearly identical to one another, and the rustling now sounds like it's coming from multiple places. Maybe take a moment to center yourself before continuing to search. 

[Koa Leilani]

It was too easy to get turned around in a place like this. Everything started to blend together. A rock looked like any other rock and a tree looked like any other tree. Koa looked around in confusion, as did Toki, clearly lost on how to proceed. It was a little frustrating, but he remained vigilant in his search. He set Toki down and sat down on a nearby rock as he began to think. Where could they be? An open clearly? A secluded cliff side? A cave? He closed his eyes and tried to listen for anything out of the ordinary.

He started to think about the subtle differences around him. The markings or different branch shapes of each tree. The rock formations. The patches of grass. He had to keep all of these in mind "I've seen that tree over there a few times already, so if I go this way..." He muttered as he walked along a different path. Sure enough it definitely looked like a different place.

He saw several Pokemon, but they were the usual that were always spotted around these parts and were simply foraging. He was making progress, he just had to keep looking around for significant clues and signs. He would find them eventually. He was quite excited to so he could finally test himself in this new way.

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Toki (Mienfoo), Level 15, 5/5

Word Count: 227
Roll Total: 134

[Jenesis]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

You have found the pack!

A half-dozen Riolu sit in a circle around a Lucario, watched over by a pair of Mienshao, a Hitmonlee, and a Hitmonchan. The Lucario appears to be the leader. She eyes you warily as you approach.

[Koa Leilani]

In a nearby clearing off the main path, Koa had found what he was looking for. He was taken aback by the sheer number of them. He stopped for a moment and tried to assess the situation. He didn't want to antagonize any of them. Toki, meanwhile, looked slightly unnerved by the presence of the two Mienshao. He had set out on his own journey away from his own pack. While his parents were supportive of the venture, some of his siblings and others of the pack were not. As a result, he tends to be wary around others of his kind, irrational as that might be.

Koa noticed the wary gaze of the Lucario. He found a comfortable patch of grass to kneel. He bowed his head politely as he knelt in a respectful fashion, like a student to a master. His aura swirled around him like the ocean waves. Vivid blues and bright whites mixed together in his aura as he simply observed from a distance. If that's all they would allow, he would not judge or force the issue. He was here to learn, not make enemies or make Pokemon uncomfortable. Toki followed suit and knelt next to him and mimicked his bow.

Such a fascinating gathering of Pokemon. The Riolu looked bright-eyed and curious, some of them not even acknowledging his presence right now. The Mienshao were elegant and beautiful. The Lucario looked stern and protective. The Hitmonlee and Hitmonchan were watching from afar as well. This had to be the rumored pack that was spotted. All he had to do was be patient.

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

The Lucario seems to ease a bit once you sit down, but her gaze remains stern. She closes her eyes, and the sensors on the side of her head raise and glow. The Riolu group immediately copy the motion trying their best to keep their tiny sensor organs open. Perhaps not as clear to a human: the order was said more in Pokemon: center yourself and focus. 

[Koa Leilani]

He tried to make sense of what he was looking at. It looked like a meditation session of some kind, but they were trying to attune to something. Something unseen through normal means. He looked down at Toki, who had already begun the process as if it was familiar to him. Koa took a deep breath and crossed his legs before he closed his eyes. Everything became still and silent, with only the sound of the wind echoing across the field.

His thoughts were clouded with insecurities and fears. He couldn't bring himself to relax completely. He opened his eyes and sighed, feeling like he wasn't making any progress. What was he even supposed to get from this? He didn't feel any different or felt any of his own aura surface.

Toki, despite knowing how to use Aura Sight, also found himself struggling a bit. The Mienshao nearby made him feel inadequate and inexperienced. Their presence made him feel that no matter how hard he tried, he would never be at that level. It was frustrating, absolutely frustrating.

The two of them just sat back and watched for the time being. Koa ran a hand through his hair in frustration. Once again when push came to shove, he couldn't focus enough to make a difference or improve himself. This was his chance to understand Aura more, but he was already under performing. He needed to get better at this. When someone's life was in danger, would he be able to make a difference next time? He grit his teeth and was on the verge of tears as he remembered what happened to Azura's mother. If he was only better at controlling his aura, she might have survived.

He reached over and pet the top of Toki's head gently "Let's...give it another try, okay?" He said, still unsure. But he had to keep trying. Though a strange thought occurred to him. Why was he so obsessed with understanding this? Was it some kind of atonement for what was an enormous failing on his part? That grief and guilt, while it gave him a direction, shouldn't keep controlling his life. He wanted to learn this to help people first and foremost. The past was the past. If he kept focusing on it and his own perceived failures, how would he ever better himself?

He closed his eyes once again and breathed deeply. He thought about Azura's recovery. How she went from devastated and sad to the brightest and most cheerful Pokemon ever. He helped her reach that point, didn't he? There are things one just can't control. Trying to control everything or make everything go your way wasn't what this power was about. It was about being focused and disciplined. Doing what you can, not doing everything. He kept his breathing focused and his mind calmer. Toki noticed this and tried his best to focus as well.

-----

Word Count: 486

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

The Lucario waits for a bit saying nothing immediately. As you both settle down again, she seems to smile a bit to herself. A little time passes, and as you listen to the world around you, your senses become a little more attune to everyone's breathing... and you notice that they have all synched up... as if they were all one organism for a moment in time. 

[Koa Leilani]

There was a complete serenity for this moment in time. The next few seconds felt much longer than that as Koa felt perfectly in sync with everyone else. At this time there were no differences between him and the surrounding Pokemon. They were all here together in the name of self-improvement and mastery. It was completely tranquil. Slowly but surely, Koa began to feel a certain connection with the world around him.

Toki had made excellent progress as well, as he had moved past his fears and insecurities. The world started to seem clearer. Alongside Koa, he felt stronger. He helped him believe that he really could reach that legendary skill he once thought unattainable. However, it would take time, and accepting that fact and focusing on the present felt like a true step forward.

It was a time for Koa to reflect and think on things with a clear head. Here he was, still barely starting this new lifestyle and career. Being a ranger gave him a significant amount of freedom to explore and take cases and jobs at his leisure. While he may have had a late start to everything, he was here now and that was something to be proud of. Every day he would learn something new. Every day he would form new precious memories with the Pokemon and friends he was making. Tragic things happened in the past and in all likelihood would happen in the future. However, that made to good moments and what he has decided to do with his life all the more important. He would be someone who helps those that he can and share in their happiness and sadness. That was the responsibility he shouldered when he decided to become a ranger. To save lives and bring about hope and justice no matter how difficult it might be sometimes. There was comfort in that thought. Life may be difficult, but also beautiful.

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Word Count: 322

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

And then... in a sudden flicker of light, you see it for a moment! The beautiful blue hue of a flame in your mind's eye becomes apparent... only for a moment before flickering away again. 

[Koa Leilani]

The suddenness of it was a bit of a shock to Koa. He opened his eyes and saw the Lucario where the flame appeared in his vision. He blinked a few times and shook his head for a moment. Was that what was supposed to happen? It was a brief spark. Something that he hadn't experienced with Aura before. Was that the Lucario's own Aura? He took in a few more deep breaths as he closed his eyes.

Everything was connected. Humans and Pokemon. Past, present, and future. All were inexorably linked to one another and always will be. The past is to be reflected on to make a better present, which in turn benefits the future. All of that must be done alongside one another. Peace of mind and a disciplined soul lead to a harmony between oneself and the world around them, and in that harmony blooms hope. There are going to be undoubtedly difficult things to deal with in the future, but that is why one must prepare now while appreciating the peace of the present moment.

He opened his eyes, understanding a little more about himself. He looked at Toki as for a brief second, vague shapes began to take form around him but they were gone as soon as they appeared. There was still practice to be done. Toki opened his eyes and had much of the same experience. Was there more to this training? Was this only the first step?

-----

Word Count: 246

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

The Lucario senses the change in your power and pauses for a moment to stand and walk over to you. She looks down at your sitting form and then makes a small gesture with her paws to help you up. You have taken the first step, but there his much to learn. It is the Hitmonlee and Hitmonchan that also rise and seem to both take on a stance and glow with energy, a bit of aura atop a basic Fighting energy. The order was simple enough: try that. 

[Koa Leilani]

He was a little surprised that the Lucario had approached him. He reached up to take her hand and stood up. Toki stood up as well as he looked between Koa and the Lucario. The two of them seem to have passed this first test. Their confidence rose slightly, but they took care not to let it get to their heads. The both of them bowed to the Lucario, but then their next teachers arrived. Hitmonlee and Hitmonchan.

Toki took to this rather easily as he squared his stance and focused his energy and aura. Koa saw flickers of Toki's aura rise up for a brief moment, but he soon tried to focus on doing this himself. He took on a stance similar to Toki's and breathed deeply. He tensed his muscles and focused, but it was difficult to find his center. It was about focusing power, but there was more to it than brute forcing it. He relaxed his muscles and kept focusing and slowly felt the aura around his body flow. Too relaxed and it just dispersed, but too tense and it wouldn't flow properly. There was a balance, like before.

Still, Koa was slowly getting the hang of it. An energy emanated from his body. It wasn't much, but it was there, and he hoped that was what mattered. He would hold this energy as long as he could, or until his new instructors felt it was enough.

----

Word Count: 241

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

As you stand focused, you would start to see the flickers of aura around you more clearly than ever before. They sort of snap into focus for a moment, and more details become apparent. Once wisps can now be seen more like fields of color. 

[Koa Leilani]

Each flicker came as somewhat of a surprise, especially after they began to take on more apparent shapes and colors. At this point he was positive this was real. It rose off his body, the shapes swirling and the colors taking on a brighter shine than before. Slowly but surely he was even beginning to see the the auras around the Pokemon. There was still the question of how he consciously uses this sight. Would it be this taxing every time? Would it become second nature after a while?

Even if this would require much more training, Koa had to admit this was a very enlightening experience. Pokemon gathering together to meditate and practice like this gave them a culture that was all their own. Clearly this started somewhere and was passed down in some way that couldn't just be explained by instinct alone. It was fascinating.

After focusing for a little while longer, Koa relaxed his stance and bowed to the duo, as did Toki. He wiped his brow, but was still willing to learn more if they would continue teaching him. He felt there was still a little more to learn about this sight he was beginning to attune to. If any of the Pokemon here had anymore advice for him and Toki, he would wait to hear it.

----

Word Count: 221

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

The Hitmons sit down again, and this time it is the Mineshao that seem to rise. The first struck a pose while the second remained standing calmly. The first focused geatly, and Koa would begin to see his aura shining in a particular way before condensing in his very paws. The second one remained standing calmly, put her paws together, and also seemed to form that energy.... and soon it became present even to the naked eye: aura sphere. That was... probably not something you could replicate just yet, but you could certainly see it! 

[Koa Leilani]

Koa watched with wide-eyed curiosity as the Mienshao approached and focused their auras to a singular point. It moved and shifted towards their paws and started to condense into a singular form. It was the signature move of many aura wielding Pokemon. Aura Sphere. Were they showing him this because one day it's something he'll be able to do himself? He's never heard of humans being able to use something like that before. He looked at his own hands and decided this sort of thing was currently beyond him right now. He would have to dedicate himself to practicing what he currently knew. Use his channeling to partially commune with Pokemon and learning how to best make use of this new sight.

Still, he would observe the Mienshao and even attempt to focus his own aura to a similar point to see how far he had to go. It was a struggle and he could barely shape his aura in any meaningful way without exhausting himself. His aura flickered and waved about, but to no avail. He sighed heavily and bowed to the Mienshao. He wasn't really sure what else there was to learn today, but he was grateful to them all for showing what they could. He only wished there was some way to properly thank them all for this training.

All of a sudden he felt a little emotional. "Thank you..." He muttered out. "Thank you all for helping me understand what this power is and for nurturing it." He bowed once more. Tears fell to the ground as he remembered the day he awoke to this ability. "I will use it to the best of my abilities...and train it every day. And above all I promise to use it for the good and safety of others..."

----

Word Count: 300

[Jae]

A random event has occurred!

What will you do?

Koa Leilani

The Mienshao step back as the Lucario comes forward again. She extends her paw and takes yours a simple shake that humans would understand. He was welcome. All students of aura whose hearts were aligned were welcome here. She is pleased by your steady progress, but after moments like this, it was best to rest. 

Congrats!