As Totodile and Vulpix sat in the training room, Totodile couldn’t help but feel a mix of frustration and anger. His bond mate trainer, Kyo, had sent him to train with Vulpix, the reason for his frustration? Vulpix here is older than she looks. She is an experienced Pokemon that refuses to evolve due to some archaic reasons.

. Vulpix being Momo’s Pokemon was already trained in using Aura with the bond they share as the daughter of the Hagane clan. She was a natural. No, the reason why it is so frustrating because this devious vulpine ridicule at everything he does.

Vulpix doesn’t think that way. On the contrary, she took the mantle of senior quite seriously.

Teaching Totodile to do so will be a challenge, Vulpix still couldn’t teach the young Pokemon how to tap into the power, it seems like drastic measures needed to be taken if the young Pokemon is to be of use to the young heir of Shimizu. At least Vulpix understood this. This is why Vulpix has started to change her strategy and berated the young Pokemon to motivate him..so fair it has worked.

“Do it again!“

the Vulpix roared at the young gator Pokemon, who still couldn’t wield an ounce of aura yet even after two whole days of meditating.

Totodile on the other hand..didn’t understand why he was being forced to do this. Totodile knew it would make him stronger, but Totodile was tired of being treated like a novice. The power of bond had always fascinated him seeing Momo speaking to Momo almost telepathically. He wishes he could do so with that little human of his.

Was it jealousy? Perhaps.

He won’t give up. He was determined to become as skilled in its use as his young human Kyo. And he was sick of Vulpix’s haughty attitude and constant belittling every single day. And he treated her like a friend! They had noodles together! The utter betrayal! Fire types arent nice at all.

To him, Vulpix is a self-important and arrogant Pokemon and seem to derive pleasure from watching Totodile fidgeted nervously on the training mat.

“Come here little Totodile,” Vulpix said with a condescending smile. “You’re going to have to try harder if you want to become as skilled as I am. You’re still a long way from mastering those techniques. With that level of determination, you couldn’t possibly help out that little human of yours”

Totodile gritted his teeth and tried to ignore Vulpix’s snide comments. He knew that he would have to work hard to become proficient in using water type energy, but he didn’t need Vulpix’s constant belittling to motivate him. It’s been two whole days and none of his provocations ever catch Vulpix’s attention. he even did the two-thumb things the little human taught him with the two middle fingers..it only made the fire Pokemon sneer at him.

“You’re a meanie!” roared Totodile

“Such Peasantry” scoffs the Vulpix as she huffed around boringly, Totodile can’t help but glare at the vulpine red fox. The young fox motioned the young Pokemon to try again as the Totodile coiled and reeled from annoyance, trying to summon the various energies he needed to master.

“ Come, little Totodile, again. Until you master these clan techniques. It would deign me to think that thou art our young master’s first”

The training began with basic exercises to help Totodile focus and control his energy. Vulpix demonstrated the proper techniques, and the meditation needed to control his water energy and focus it, but Totodile couldn’t help feeling that she was showing off and trying to make him look incompetent. That and Totodile didn’t wanna admit that he couldn’t understand how water aura works at all or how his water energy should work.

“This is boring!! You’re a fire type! what do you know about water moves!”

Vulpix just shakes her head and said, “More than you think, Fire types like me make use of steam as our moveset. Fog and mist are some of the techniques employed when done right”

"Totodile dint understand any of that and just take it as face value that the fox is probably trying to confuse him. “ Fiiineee! I’ll do this stupid practice!”

Vulpix can’t help but sneer at the petulant youngling “ Childish antics won’t get you my sympathy. Focus, please”

They kept doing so every day for several hours. Totodile wasn’t able to meet his little human at all since then.

As the weeks passed, Totodile’s skills began to improve, despite Vulpix’s constant criticism. He became more confident and controlled in his use of the Aura tapping into his bondmate’s vast pool of Water energy, and he was able to perform more complex techniques with ease.

But despite his progress, Totodile still struggled with one aspect of training the use of Steel-type moves. Steel Claw. These powerful attacks were difficult for him to master, and Vulpix was quick to point out every mistake he made, further fueling his frustration and resentment. Steel moves were especially the hardest to grasp for the water type to grasp.

The scroll given by his human does allow some understanding, but it’s not enough. A skill scroll can only do so much. Vulpix said his bloodline would have grasped this skill easily since he is a “Royal” or whatever that is.

Totodile began to wonder why Kyo had sent him to train with Vulpix in the first place. He couldn’t understand why his little human would subject him to such haughty and arrogant treatment from this arrogant little red tyrant.

He missed the little human. He haven’t had a Pecha berries in weeks.

But no matter how much he wanted to give up and go back to Kyo, Totodile refused to let Vulpix’s negativity get the best of him. He pushed himself harder and refused to give up, determined to prove Vulpix wrong and show her that he was more than capable of mastering the skills on the scroll and Steel-type moves.

He could hear his little human training nearby, the constant blasting and loud noises coming from the courtyard next to him is where his little human trained. Even if Totodile haven’t seen him for a while, he knew his little human was also trying his best.

No Pecha berry? it’s fine. He can endure.

On the third day, Totodile made some sort of progress. He knew that he still had much to learn, but he was proud of the progress he had made and excited to continue his journey with Kyo by his side. And he couldn’t wait to put Vulpix’s haughty attitude in its place. What adventures would they embark on next? Fishing? Maybe going to those human stalls with those wondrous foods. Or that old man noodle place. He only been there once but it was the best food he’s ever eaten before.

Only place that taste better than Pecha berries.

As Totodile and Vulpix sat in the training room, the tension between them was palpable.Even after weeks of training Totodile couldn’t understand in his little tiny head why Kyo had sent him to train with Vulpix, who seemed more interested in belittling him than actually helping him improve.

Vulpix, sensing Totodile’s frustration, let out a condescending sigh.

 “Honestly, Totodile, I don’t know why the young heir thought you were ready for this level of training. You’re just so weak and inexperienced. I can’t believe he thought you could master the Water and Steel-type moves in just a few days. It’s been weeks. And this is all you can do? Steel Claw isn’t very hard”

Vulpix turned her arms into Steel and slashes at the stone dummy as it crumble to dust, Just to show off more what she could do she turned her tail into steel and smash the rest of the boulder into smithereens while showing that condescending sneer of hers.

“Why can’t you do this simple move? Your human is a fool if he thinks you have any potential. Perhaps he’s weaker than he looks. A weak pokemon for a weak master, how fitting.”

Just like that every single day, she’s doing this on purpose, isn’t she? This Totodile is not stupid! But it’s still so infuriating!

Totodile’s temper flared at Vulpix’s insults.

“Don’t talk about my little human that way! He’s a great little human! Take that back! He’s stronger than any little human I’ve known! All the other humans are meanies! All they do is throw stones at me!“

Vulpix chuckled, clearly enjoying Totodile’s anger.

“Oh, I do not doubt that Kyo is a nice little human. But he’s also naïve and overly trusting. Why would he ever see any merit to a wild Pokemon like you is something I couldn’t comprehend, being heir..he could have any of the Shimizu clan-sanctioned Pokemon, and any one of them is capable of understanding aura better than you, Learn our ways better than you, Royalty or not, the fact is..you’re very weak.”

Totodile couldn’t believe what he was hearing. How dare Vulpix talk about the little human like that! He knew that Kyo was one of the most talented and nicest humans he had ever met, and he would not stand by and let Vulpix slander him. He couldnt care about being Royalty or whatever nonsense she’s spouting.

“Don’t talk to the little human that way, meanie!” Totodile said through gritted teeth. “I’ll be strong, mighty and powerful! Like Alpha!. And when I do, I’ll make sure you know it.”

Vulpix sneered at Totodile, clearly unconcerned by his threats. “Whatever you say little baby, we’ll see about that, Totodile. Until then, I suggest you focus on your training and try to keep up with me. You have a long way to go before you’re ready to stand on your own.”

Totodile knew that Vulpix was trying to get under his skin, but he refused to let her succeed. He would not let her negativity and arrogance get the best of him. He would continue to work hard and improve, no matter what she said or did. And one day, he would prove her wrong and show her that he was more than capable of mastering the Aura and Steel-type moves.

With a summon of his power in a momentary slip, he hardened his claws and tried to swipe them towards Vulpix, the aura manifested around his claws as they glittered with power and energy, The young pokemon had finally used “Steel Claw” and struck at her.

Vulpix could only grind and say, “Finally..you get it. That’s two weeks? peasantry skills.”  

“Grr! No thanks to you!!”

the little gator snarled as he worked himself up for the next attack, keeping up with the momentum,

Vulpix, however, was turning mad with her flames rising to full power as a wisp of fire blasted towards the young Totodile and a battle ensued. The two finally began their real training.

But across the yard, two people are diligently watching the two Pokemon training. Master Natto and Momo were at the side watching the two fights and Momo could only sigh and said,

“Was that necessary Dad? egging the young master’s bondmate like that? Vulpix can be quite rude when she wants to be.”

Master Natto sat with his daughter Momo, sipping on a cup of tea as they watched the young Vulpix playfully nipping at the heels of a small Totodile looking calm while still observing the fight.

“You know Momo, young Pokémon like Totodile need to understand the value of hard work and determination, especially if that one is determined to find a place here in the Shimizu clan. Master or no young master, as his first bondmate, it is simply its duty.” Master Natto said thoughtfully.

“Not to mention, I heard the young heir of Shimizu found this one accidentally by the river, a wild Pokémon, not just any wild Pokémon. But a calamity class Pokémon that was untrained...the Feraligatr line are known to be Destroyers of cities, untamed, wild and dangerous. This one happens to be the offspring of an Alpha as well. Extra precautions need to be taken for his safety and that colouring is unique, Definitely one of those rare Royalty types too, there’s a too much variable for the young master to harbor such a thing as his first bond mate as we still do not have sufficient findings and research regarding this bloodline and their habitat.”

Momo nodded. “I agree, Dad. But I don’t want Vulpix to be too hard on Totodile.”

Momo couldn’t help but sulk as she saw her little vulpine taunting the little one like it was the most natural thing to do. Lowkey bullying is what it is.

“She can be rather mean when it comes to clan matters and prestige. It is what Mothers Ninetails thought her, bless her soul.”

Master Natto smiled. “I understand your concern, dear. But sometimes a little tough love can be just the motivation a Pokémon needs to rise stronger. Totodile needs to learn that challenges are a part of life, and it’s how we overcome them that defines us. Especially for clan Pokemon. They have a role in this.”

Momo sighed.

“I suppose you’re right, Dad. It’s just hard to watch Totodile struggle sometimes. Kinda reminds me what Vulpix was like almost a year ago”

Master Natto patted her daughter’s hand reassuringly.

“I know it is, dear. But remember, Totodile is a wild Pokemon, and there isn’t any data from the Shimizu clan to collaborate with any proper data in training with this type of Pokemon. Concerning its past predecessor, we are training a wild Feraligtr bloodline on uncharted waters”

Momo just nodded. “I’ve heard the story. A bunch of their species destroyed several villages nearby. A hostile warlike Pokemon like that can be hard to train”

Master Natto just sips his tea and continues with his lecture.

“With the right guidance and support, it will become even stronger. And who knows, perhaps one day it will even surpass Vulpix in strength and skill.”

Momo grinned. “Dad, you’re giving the young heir too much credit. I bet if I knew how to evolve Vulpix to Ninetales she could show those Nensho clans about raising Fire-type Pokemon”

Master Natto chuckled. “I agree, dear. Now let’s give our young Pokémon a little space to grow and learn on their own. They have a bright future ahead of them.”

Master Natto’s face then turned grim “Regarding the Nensho clan, even if they know how to evolve a Vulpix into a Ninetails, even if they beg and pleaded your hand for marriage, there is no way I would agree to their demands, We will find another way to do so...The Hagane Clan is not so weak to rely on the Main clan for something trivial such as this”

Momo could only sigh and said, “I know Dad, and umm...thanks for not agreeing”

Master Natto just smiled and said, “And give them my baby girl? Over my dead body, the gall of the Nensho heir. Not only did he ask for your hand, but the mistress Mai as well? That foolish Scion will someday meet his match and pay for his folly .My Apprentice Kazuki is a far better candidate. I’ve made my choice. Your sister wouldn’t approve, anyway. The Hagane clan will certainly revolt if I do so.”

Momo started blushing when he heard Kazuki being mentioned

“He’s umm...still struggling with your teaching because of his clan upbringing. Is he improving Dad?”

Master Natto nodded solemnly and said,

“It’s not something I am capable of teaching him, it is something he needs to master by himself, one can only guide him so far in our arts just like you...who bore the flames of Origin within you when we belonged to Mountain and Steel, it is why young Vulpix took quite a liking to you, some things are just beyond clan inheritance and its bloodline, there’s more to this world than meets the eyes, so many mysteries we have yet to uncover, Being able to speak and bond with all fire types is a gift but there’s still so little we know about the power of Origin.”

Momo nodded with a strange calmness as she listened to her father’s narration. “ Sister too, having two Origin wielders in the clan tend to attract the wrong kind of influence”

Master Natto just turned his head grimly and nodded

“Mistress Mai knew what the consequences was when she took our clan under the Shimizu banner, as the strongest wielder of the True Origin, she can afford to take the blunt of the criticism from the other two main clans”

Momo look distantly towards the two pokemon bickering and dueling with Steel Claw, seeing the antics of the two little pokemon destroying the Courtyard and roaring at each other cutely makes her smile.

“One can only hope, Father, that things will turn out alright for the future,” said Momo as she calmly grabbed her father’s hand, noticing the wrinkles on his fingers and hand that showed how much her father aged over the years.

Master Natto nodded slowly and clasped his hands gently on her daughter’s touch, feeling her love and affection gently like the breeze that carries the wind here in this intrepid training ground.

“I Miss your mother…she usually knows what to do.” 

Natto nodded with a loneliness that can’t be filled even when the void is left empty from the passing of time. It never gets better. 

“I miss Mother too. She would probably say…things will be better”

 

…………………………………………………………………………….

The week was over!

Kyo and Totodile had one day to rest. It was the only day at the end of the week when Kyo could go see Totodile and explore the city. Kyo went to the clan’s nearby pond to go and meet his Pokemon. It’s been a whole week since he last saw him. He finally saw his little guy sitting at the pond’s edge, looking all sulky and dejected, feeling the blues for some reason.

Kyo wondered if something happened to the little guy? Was he training too hard? Kyo sat down next to Totodile, who was looking dejected and sulky. “Hey there buddy, what’s going on?” Kyo asked gently.

Totodile let out a small sigh. “to.. too” he said, his eyes drooping.

Kyo frowned sympathetically. He could see that the Totodile was eyeing Momo’s Vulpix with an angry stare and gave the Pokemon two thumbs of the middle finger when she was not looking. It seemed like something did happen during training, probably something bad.

“Too bad, little buddy, but at least you did your best, yeah?”

Totodile looked unconvinced. “Toto...dile dile ..todile toto..”

The little Pokemon seems dejected as he fails to see how he could get any better or something like that from the body language. Kyo still couldn’t understand Pokemon talking like his mother or Momo or even Master Natto or Lady Sudo. They say that with time, his bonded one will be able to talk naturally someday. Kyo could roughly understand what the little Pokemon says tho..somehow, just roughly.

Kyo chuckled. “Oh Totodile, you always underestimate yourself. You’re an amazing Pokémon with so much potential. And besides, it’s not about being better than anyone else. It’s about being the best you can be.”

Totodile perked up a little at that. “Toto? toto Dile!!” the little one seems far more cheerful now and excited.

Kyo patted Totodile on the head. “That’s the spirit! Now let’s go fishing and cheer you up. I heard they have a few Magikarp around here we can catch, maybe even a Goldeen..”

Totodile’s eyes lit up. “Toto? dile dile dile!” the little tyke is excited and his mouth seems to water with slivers. Pokemon sushi. Totodiles love to fish. Or..they could just fish for ordinary fish. That exists here too.

As they headed off to a nearby lake, Kyo knew that Totodile was feeling much better and ready to take on whatever challenges came his way. He was grateful to have such a loyal and determined Pokémon by his side.

Totodile was a playful and energetic water-type Pokémon, and Kyo knew that he would have a lot of fun exploring the river with his friend. Apparently..he asked around. There isn’t any lake available. Hopefully, the river would suffice.

As the sun rose high in the sky, Kyo and Totodile set out for the river. They packed a picnic lunch of sandwiches and apples made by Aina when he told her about their small excursion, and Kyo made sure to bring along his fishing rod and tackle box.

When they arrived at the river, Kyo and Totodile found a quiet spot by the bank and set up their gear. Totodile splashed happily in the water, chasing after minnows and crayfish as Kyo cast his line. No, Pokemon yet. The target? Is a juicy plump Magicarp. Magicarp sushi is surprisingly good. Tasted better than salmon.

As the hours passed, Kyo and Totodile enjoyed the peaceful sound of the river and the warm sunshine. They talked and laughed as they waited for a bite, both of them lay down lazily waiting for the hook.

“This is the life...” The young little man relaxed as his little Totodile nodded sleepily as well “Toto...” Both of them enjoy a lazy day by the river.

“Look at all these fish, Totodile! I bet we’ll catch something big today, No Magicarp or Goldeen yet, but I can feel it. We might catch something great today!” Kyo said with a smile.

Totodile nodded eagerly, his big eyes sparkling with excitement. “Toto, toto!” he chirped.

As the hours passed, Kyo and Totodile enjoyed the peaceful sound of the river and the warm sunshine. They talked and laughed as they waited for a bite, and when Kyo finally felt a tug on his line, Totodile cheered him on as he reeled in his catch.

“I’ve got something! Keep your eyes peeled, Totodile,” Kyo called out as he expertly brought in the line.

Totodile watched with amazement as Kyo pulled in a plump Magicarp, its shimmering scales glinting in the sunlight.

“Ma-magi!” the fish Pokemon flaps miserably

“Wow, that’s a big one!” Totodile exclaimed, clapping his little paws together in excitement. “totototo!”

Kyo beamed with pride as he carefully released the Magicarp into the box. No Goldeen but it was still a good catch. “That was a great catch, wasn’t it Totodile?” he said.

Totodile nodded eagerly. “Toto, toto! “They both make a great team today.

Kyo turned towards the Magicarp he caught and find those inteligent eyes staring back at him. Sentient pokemon is staring back at him pleadingly through the eyes. The eyes are the window to the soul, or so they say. Perhaps there are some truths to that. Somehow, he doesn’t find sushi that appetizing anymore.

“Let’s release the guy. I don’t think I’m ready to eat Magicarp sushi that I caught myself just yet..”

Totodile was disappointed. However, his little human is releasing free food into the river! What a waste! But that’s why he likes his little human. Compassionate, but still a bummer.

“Toto....” The little Pokémon slumped his hands in disappointment, Kyo couldn’t help but laugh at his antics" Don’t worry, we can catch plenty of fish around here, I’ll make some grilled fish for you, it will taste great!"

That immediately cheers the little gator Pokémon up “ da-dile! Toto!” The young Pokémon started jumping and waddling happily as he immediately jumped into the river to catch more fish.

By the end of the day, Kyo had caught several fish, and Totodile had had a great time splashing in the water and playing with the other water Pokemon around while having grilled fish that day, It was a great evening, just the two of them. Tomorrow? it will be back to the usual training.

Tomorrow? Kyo will learn how to use Aegis. Kyo went back to the Clan Hagane’s hall where he stayed for the remainder of his training. It was getting dark. Before then, he will recall what he learned for the whole week. To write it all in his tiny journal, hopefully finding something to ponder about, to be fair..there’s much to ponder about for the whole week.

The training was fair...he could see himself getting much stronger. Even now he still wonders if such strength he wielded was really just the beginner level. It’s hard to wrap things around in this Pokemon world. The standards of power level in this world are just too imbalanced.

More things to ponder forward. He should probably write down his thoughts.

“Thank...you..little human”

Kyo was startled by that. That was probably the first time he could understand Totodile through their bond. He smiles brightly and pats the little guy on the head as the Totodile trills happily and waddles away side by side along with him.

“You’re welcome mate, let’s do this again next week”

 Later that night-

Dear Diary,

Is that what they say each time they pen a title when writing a diary? Whatever. The first week of training with the Hagane Clan Patriarch is...tough, to say the least. Lady Sudo Hagane is a fair teacher. My wounds healed almost instantly the next day with that magic ointment she gave me on the second day I came here. Aina complained a lot, but it was fair. I suppose that some of the methods implemented in this training could be seen as brutal. There isn’t a goal for how much I ran every day, only that I ran till I dropped. I could cheat my way and stop running, but that would be lying to myself.

 

Personally? I wanted to give up, to cry and bawl just like any other five to six-year-old in this predicament. I would like to go back home and play with my Pokemon and enjoy the idyllic slice-of-life story since I’m in a Pokemon world, instead. I was sent away for training after six months of living in this world. Personally, I wanted to give up yes..but my pride wouldn’t let me. Pride wouldn’t let me hah! If you could see some of the stuff, this Sudo lady could do with Aura, you would wanna stay too.

She bends reality, literally bends it. Shape metal into any form, shape metal swords into a sandstorm of death, and back into a sword again. break stone with bare hands, strike the ground, and split it apart with her bare hands! Levitate within a sandstorm!

Unbelievable... I live in a Pokemon wuxia fantasy world. What else do I need to say? much things. Observation within this world is just the tip of the scale. For example, Aura. or in this case? Metal Aura? What do you call a phenomenon where aura and type energy intersect? Yeah I havent got a name for it yet.

And strange things have happened before, Lugia appearing in the Main clan house at the shrine cave behind the waterfall underground, me learning how to...crush rock with my hands using just aura? Breathing underwater for ten minutes? Manipulating water and bending it to your will, sharpening water like swords and steel...this is all I can attest to. This is the power that I wield myself, and this is just the start of the beginner level.

I couldn’t believe it even though I’d already seen it, experienced it. My modern sensibilities won’t allow me to process it. How could I?

This world is abnormal. Perhaps the Alternative Universe Theory does hold some measure of sense when it comes to explaining some stuff here. I will try to observe this phenomenon more as to why is the balance of power or simply... superhuman.

The power balance favours so much for those who learn Aura and mastered it.

Back to...Miss Sudo. The current subject of my hypothesis and various other thought processes that simply boggles the mind.

After one week of being here, I have concluded that the silvery Aura she exudes is a Steel Aura, and the red Aura that occasionally comes with bloodlust is probably a Fire Aura??. Need more citations for this, Fire and metal go well together, fire forges sword and in turn, makes metal malleable. Her clan is the Steel clan Afterall, Knowing what I think I might know from the current past and future, she’s probably Gym Leader Jasmine great great great Ancestor or something.

For now, I still could not emulate this silvery aura. It seems one needs to have an affinity with the elements in order to wield them. Instead, Lady Sudo teaches me to have better control of my Aura which is blue...perhaps water? Mother seems to wield the same hue and so is Grandpa, although My mother’s Aura seems to be much purer stronger too.

Perhaps it signifies my ties with the Water attribute?

To reiterate what she said to me earlier, she mentioned that the Hagane style is the easiest style to learn because it can be easily recreated with other forms of aura. Hagane Style is very malleable. Hence, one can use Water aura to imitate the first move he’s seen from the Steel type aura arts of Hagane Style - Tempest. That isn’t the case yet...Since I’ll be learning the first style, Aegis. 

What is Aegis?

Aegis is a hypothetical move that could potentially be used in the world of Pokemon to protect and shield those within a protection aura using Steel-type energy as I assume it would do so...No it is not similar to the Pokémon move Protect, apparently Protect isn’t a very effective shielding technique in this world since battles tend to go...at a faster and more chaotic pace.

A constant reliable shield or a dome protection field better suited to this world’s combat. To put it in theory, since steel energy is malleable, I could imitate the way liquid metal works, and for a water Aegis instead. 

All elements have an Aegis according to the original Hagane style developed over the centuries of the Old Kantonian Sakura era and the Johtonian Feudal arts. More history I am not aware of.

Anyway,

Steel-type moves are known for their durability and resistance to damage, which makes them ideal for defensive purposes. A move like Aegis could potentially harness the power of Steel-type energy to create a protective aura around the user and any allies within a certain radius.

This aura could serve as a shield, absorbing or deflecting incoming attacks and protecting those within from harm as long as the aura is generated and fed into the technical matrix that made up the technique. A water shield with the same density as a hardened substance could technically act as a shield too, in theory. 

Will have to make my own hypothesis once my own Aegis is formed.

Right, a technical matrix. It’s something I used to explain complex skills that combine one aspect of a technique with another to form a skill. in essence, I suppose anyone can create their own skill with the foundation and basics of how a skill works.

Human aura technicals are quite different to Pokemon moves, I suppose, but it still makes you wonder why they go through the same process of creation when experimenting and fine-tuning a technique to be used.

I can only think of one example made canon. This is a form of strong and agile style combat for Pokémon moves. Except...done by human aura techniques. Then again, it was Zisu of Hisui if I’m not mistaken...that’s her name, isn’t it? My memories are a little fuzzy about all the various games in the series. It’s hard to keep track of it all, anyway...this Zisu person in the Hisui region is able to teach Pokémon how to use these agile and strong styles methods, styles akin to aura techniques in Aisho aka the Indigo Region.

A correlation? One can only assume it is similar. Anyway, I’m getting sidetracked again...too many things to ponder without any proper answers and just pure speculation of my own thoughts...right, back to Steel Aura and the first matrix move Aegis.

To use this move effectively, the user would need to have a strong understanding of Steel-type energy and how to manipulate it for defensive purposes. They would also need to maintain the aura for a sustained period, as well as adjust their size and strength to adapt to different situations.

It is worth noting that Aegis is a purely hypothetical move and is not currently available in any Pokemon Universe, not that I knew of any However, it is possible that a move with similar effects could be developed in this world, perhaps through the use of advanced Aura technique in this world that seems to be leaps and bound in any alternate Universe.

One could say that the people in this world had a clearer vision of what Aura really could do, I have an inclination to suggest, you might think it’s rather stupid but...Reminds me of the Protect spell. Any correlation? Oh wait. There’s one more similarity.

It’s similar to the concept of chi, isn’t it? Chi, qigong. Famous esoteric energy in wuxia novels.

Am I rambling again even in my own diary? Eh, it does not matter.

This is my observation of the world of Pokemon. In a world where Pokemon could utilize Aura like Chi a concept found in various Eastern philosophies and belief systems, including traditional Chinese medicine, martial arts, and acupuncture. It is often describe as a vital energy or life force that flows through the body and is believed to be responsible for maintaining health and well-being.

In traditional Chinese medicine, chi is believed to flow through pathways called meridians in the body, and imbalances or blockages in the flow of chi are thought to be responsible for various health problems. Acupuncture, a form of traditional Chinese medicine, is based on the idea of manipulating the flow of chi through the insertion of needles at specific points...In theory, does it mean I can also heal someone using aura? Do aura affect these meridian points? More to ponder and research in the future. I am still currently learning more about this Aura phenomenon.

I wonder when did Pokemon decide to become a Wuxia novel? One could argue why Arceus even sent me to this world as a trial just to monitor some kid called the heir of the Samurai. Another conundrum. Why here? Well, something to ponder for another time. Focus on the Chi stuff.

In martial arts, chi is often associated with the concept of internal power, and practitioners may seek to cultivate and harness their chi to enhance their physical and mental abilities. That makes me wonder...

Is Clan’s style similar to martial arts technique? Custom TM chi moves, perhaps? cringe…real cringe Lord Ilama. Oh, this young master is truly not ready for this world.

It is worth noting that the concept of chi is not widely accepted by mainstream Western medicine and science, and there is limited scientific evidence to support the idea that chi exists or plays a role in human health and well-being. However, the concept of chi remains an important part of various Eastern philosophies and practices, and it continues to be studied and debated by scholars and practitioners.

Perhaps this sort of technique only exist here in Aisho?

The Japanese made the Pokemon world, at least my memories seem to agree that some Asian Eastern philosophies definitely bleed into the Pokemon world, Although I can’t say that the existence of Chi in this world is the same as Aura. Like ...Dragonball? What’s with all the pop culture references these days?

“At least I haven’t seen anyone saying cringe words like ..You’re courting death!”

Kyo stopped writing and slapped himself for a while before continuing to write in his journal as he shook his head, clearly embarrassed that he even thought that way. Kyo hoped that no one had heard that in his room. What If Aina finds out? She would probably think him strange.He shook his head and continue writing away at his diary.

If a human can wield an aura in a Pokemon world, would be able to create Pokemon moves and replicate them as well? We’ve already seen several Pokémon wielding aura techniques like that occurring from Grandpa. There is a connection here. That Ursaring did not use any moves from the established Pokemon moves.'

If a human were able to wield Aura in the Pokemon world, it is possible that they might be able to create and use Pokemon moves that utilize aura energy.

 Even in the Canon world, Aura users are able to manifest a shield just like Aaron and Ash, and in this world, some of the techniques of these clans resemble actual Pokemon moves with a human touch. Some use tools like their Katana to wield said moves, some can manifest it on their own or use the environment like the Hagane Style- Tempest summoning actual rain. Manipulation of weather.

Ridiculous? maybe. But it’s true.

Rocks were flying around, levitating and moving as Lady Sudo willed them. Everything here feels almost supernatural in nature. Her personality changes. She refers to herself as the god of war, for Christ’s sake. or Arceus’s sake? fine whatever.

The more I try to understand these styles, the more I get confused as to what is actually happening. Probably the tip of the iceberg theory here. What’s on the surface you see is only 5% of what’s really happening. Sandstorm comes to mind from a Pokémon move set when it comes to the tempest. Human emulating Pokémon moves? And creating their own custom moves using limited type energy manipulation?

Ugh...this is getting nowhere.

Not to mention the anchor to these powers.... those Katana and my wakizashi. How are they even doing that stuff? They act like wands to Harry Potter’s magic. A conduit for the aura of sorts. A foci for aura?

And who created them?  Somehow, this world civilization is able to forge such an item that probably exacerbated this whole aura of society as well as its culture and clan structure. Essentially, it is as powerful a tool towards Pokeball development and its future impact on history. Yet you never see such tools in the Canon timeline.

The Hagane clan seems to hold the knowledge of the creation of these fantasy items, especially the Katana that works as a conduit to aura. I must find out what sort of metal they use in forging these blades of war.

That reminds me…

There was a game made by Dena called Pokémon, ex master. Sync stones seem to inhibit similar trait with these weapons. Able to create custom moves from Pokémon called sync moves.

Any correlation there?

 Let’s put a note on that one. I would like to know where my weapon came from, how it was made, and perhaps try to replicate it. And perhaps even tinker with it. I like tinkering with stuff.

There’s much more I would like to write, but for now. It’s time to sleep. Less pondering, more sleeping. Tomorrow, training starts again.

At the end of the week, I went fishing with Totodile, Still haven’t thought of a name yet for the little guy, didn’t think he needed one yet, probably. Not too sure.

He seemed rather depressed with the training; it appears that both of us have separate curriculums regarding this Aura thing. The guy seems rather angry at Momo’s Vulpix. Probably had something to do with the training they did. Master Natto told me that it was simply basic Moves training for clan Pokemon.

From what I could guess, she’s probably training the little tyke to wield different movesets. How is that even possible? I wouldn’t have a clue. Must be one of the laws that differs here in this world. The little tyke showed me a steel move!

How is that possible? A Totodile wielding a Steel Claw? Oh wait, a Croconaw can wield Steel Claw but a Totodile? maybe its like Ash’s Pikachu. Maybe?

There is no TM, but there is a scroll substitute to imbue knowledge of said Pokemon. But the scrolls only serve as guidance. It isn’t a guaranteed success, but from what I’ve been told, it kinda works like a manual TM. A discrepancy...

Another discrepancy I’ve noticed in this world... Almost any Pokemon can wield Aura as a Lucario can. They can be taught to wield Aura as a force around them, this reiterates my theory about Aura being the universal energy Chi is probably correct in my assumption although I have no scientific proof or any inference that I can garner from any hypothesis in this theory without any measuring device to see if Aura even exists. I see it and feel it, but it still feels rather...illogical.

Will probably need to rewire my brain to accept that part. Modern sensibilities be damn. That one theory has gone down the drain.

There’s also this other theory of mine that probably states that in this world? Physics and anything like that doesn’t apply to the law of the universe. Perhaps Aura is similar in that way. Lightning isn’t lightning, Fire isn’t really fire. I really don’t know what to believe...It’s not like I could discuss such thoughts with anyone else.

Or could I? For now, it shall only remain in my journal. Being a five-year-old? Or six in body but not in mind is hard for me. It’s only now that I can truly see how difficult it is to be young and rather ...useless. Having to struggle with my adult mind and memories trapped in a child’s body can be rather..stifling, to say the least. 

Something I needed to get used to, not that I will ever get used to mind you. Finding things to do and keeping me occupied for one.

I miss Netflix and music. Didn’t think I would miss those things but I do. I miss watching YouTube on a Sunday afternoon, watching theory videos and stupid cat videos. Perhaps if I lived in a modern society of Pokemon, I wonder if the trial is over. I could maybe...persuade Arceus to send me somewhere with a little more...civilization? but I kinda like the people here. Damn it.

The musing of one six-year-old in this world with all the wisdom of future technology. How remorseful. I don’t think I could ever replicate those even If I wanted to. The culture and upbringing of this world are far too different, and war is still very active in these parts atleast from what the servants say around the court.

Wars huh? regional wars?

Something to find out more about in the future. Wars. I could hear whispers and talks about wars here in Aisho. Something about a neighbouring land...

If Aisho is Johto, then the neighbouring land is the Kanto region? or perhaps another region like Hoenn?. How bad is the war? There’s also the status of the Shogun in this world, something I’ve learned about by keeping my ears open when the maids and some of the clan members talk about it. Having an aura increases your senses..some clan members are not privy to the matters of Aura but they are aware of it.

Warriors mostly..kept some form of aura training within them. Warriors or trainers..something they called Kenshi.

All these new particular terms are probably temporary for me. A regional application to the term that only applies here. It’s still a pain in the ass to remember these terms but it is what it is.

Today’s dinner is extra special. Magicarp sushi. Let’s just leave it at that. Fishing was something we sorely needed. Totodile and I had a fun time. Surprisingly? letting that Magicarp go was probably the right thing. I don’t mind eating one If I don’t have to stare at a living Magicarp. Funny how that works, huh? Ending this entry here. Ill write more in a few more days.

Tomorrow? I do not look forward to tomorrow...

Perhaps things will improve? Who knows?

Hmm? is that sleep powder? I’m getting sleepier...

............................................................

Several hours later- 

Sudo Hagane stood there silently watching over her young charge, a task given by Clan Lord Mai Shimizu from the dominant clan, one of the four defenders of Aisho. Many things seem to go through her mind right now, specifically the little conundrum that was given to her recently

“to train the young heir”

Sudo did not have any students of her own. Not really. There isn’t a need to teach the Hagane style to anyone except family members or direct disciples. The only one that exists under tutorship is currently Kazuki Matsuba, her father’s direct disciple and the current mystic seer for clan Matsuba.

Clan Hagane is a clan of blacksmiths and crafters. Creating the elusive weapons that could channel Aura, which was her clan’s legacy and heritage. Not even the shogun dares to demand anything from Clan Hagane unless Clan Hagane wills it, and yet a long time ago, they swore an oath to follow the Daimyo of Water.

This is why Most Clan Hagane are generalists and not specialists. Although they tend to focus much on steel and fire, knowledge of other auras is needed to imbue said energy into the weapons as well, hence they say the best generalists are the ones who master the Hagane style, even if the traditionalists from the Hagane clan tend to defer towards their ancestors origin.

Fire and steel to honour their martial arts heritage.

Thus, for centuries, they have followed and remained as retainers of Clan Shimizu till this day. Clan Shimizu was always at the forefront of war, the vanguard of the Navy and Land Military Battle and tactics. The best strategist of war came from this illustrious family. The Shogun has given the privilege of War General to the Shimizu clan for centuries.

It has been a joyful event for her. Sudo Hagane found a kindred spirit with Mai Shimizu the heir apparent of one of the four great guardians. They grew up together. She was there when Mai bonded with her Cloyster all those years at the beach here. The both of them share many histories, went on with their journey together, and became the protectors of these lands.

Mai became stronger and sealed herself as part of the four guardians, continuing with her family’s legacy. Clan Shimizu had many retainers and minor clans under their leadership among the southern Aisho administration clan Hagane, as the wielder of the True Origin of Water. Such is her birthright.

Clan Matsuba, and even the sister clan to the illustrious Clan Wataru, the Dragon clan of Ibuki, and finally Clan Yanagi. Mysterious Clan Yanagi kept to themselves, but they have been the first, their strongest ally. The Yanagi clan is a clan of ninjas abandoned by the Shogun that favoured the Iga and Koga clan these days.

Some say that the ancient land of Yanagi was the birthplace of the art of Ninjutsu. Clan Koga and Iga deny it but Clan Hagane knows the whole truth. Iron and Ice, forged with stealth and stillness created the magnificent Sword Moromachi Tsukihime, a Tsuchigatana of peerless perfection, this weapon was the first Aura-enhanced weapon created by the Hagane clan several hundred years ago, till this day, this sword remains with the Patriarch of Clan Yanagi.

The strongest Aura sword in existence, the Mythic majinn Killer, something that spurred all Blacksmith of Hagane to surpass! a goal to one day create an equally strong or perhaps exceed it. One day she too will create a sword worthy of such a title. That day is not today. Although perhaps that day would come sooner than later, perhaps.

Back to the matter at hand, such a thing would come sooner due to one such existence. 

Kyogure Shimizu, son of Mai Shimizu. Where did this sudden boy come from? She didn’t know. Mai certainly hides him well for these past few years. Who is the father? Nobody knows. Everyone can see that the boy belongs to the Shimizu clan. Eyes that shine blue like pearls of the Ocean that brim with the raging waves of swirling tides of the Raging Isle, That huge torrential Whirpool of an Aura that he keeps hidden within him at such a young age makes her blood boil.

If Mai’s Shimizu Aura is calm and deep as a lake, tranquil but deadly. This boy’s aura is like a storm at sea, turbulent, violent, and chaotic but also very vast. In a way, the boy’s aura reminds her of the previous Patriarch Goro Shimizu, but even Goro Shimizu didn’t have a vast pool of depth compared to this boy. For Goro Shimizu, is no origin user.The boy? He inherits his mother’s gift. Lugias sama very own power.

Untrained, untapped, and Mysterious just like the Deep Ocean.

That was her first instinct when she bore her fangs and steel towards the boy, an unrelenting mountain against a dominant sea just like her Mother all those years ago, and yet the boy didn’t disappoint her. Unflinching despite that untrained nature of him, the boy is certainly not ready to wield his talents. Thankfully, this only pertains to the power of water. The young boy probably didn’t realise how much aura pressure he committed that day. An unconscious effort on his part.

The boy has zero talent in anything other than water. Two weeks and still not a single ounce of steel energy nor does fusing aura technique help. Perhaps she might be a little harsh but, even the heirs of the other clan could have more talent in understanding Type Energy.

His Water aura is too dominating. Instinctively he could wield water almost as naturally as breathing, She could understand why Mai sent him here to train, he is just too adept at Water, and teaching him anymore would spell danger for him and everyone around him if he couldn’t manage his Aura.

On the other hand, is his ability to comprehend and wield another type of aura? There has been some progress, but fundamentally, His water heritage is so domineering, that it somehow softens and stops any other type of aura affinity from being taught or absorbed baffles Sudo directly.

His water heritage is a detriment to his growth at this rate... Too tyrannical that it pushes out any other energy, including my vast amount of steel energy deposit within the underground mines underneath our dojo. Nothing seems to affect him even in this rich landscape. It is as I fear. He won’t be a generalist.

He’s a pure specialist. Probably the best Water Genius in recent history. But becoming a specialist has its flaws as well. The lack of diversity in understanding various aura techniques. It limits him.

After all, being good at only one thing is not something you take kindly to, even if that one single thing is exceptionally good unless you’re Mai Shimizu, even so...with Aura. Balance in everything, like zen and Bushido, there are many aspects of the virtues of Bushido and yet not a single one of them overpowers each code, every code is important, it’s just that some value certain codes above all else, but as long one has the understanding and patience and discipline to honour all eight virtues.

One could be said to fully embody the will of the Samurai. The elements to find a balance in all things, just like the different elements within Pokemon around us. Sudo Hagane could only shake her head and massage her dilemma away as she struggled to teach this boy.

 She might be able to teach him her techniques, but without the necessary element, even if he could perceive it and willed it to exist, He won’t be able to call upon that technique without the right Aura. It would be an entirely different technique.something he would have to brute force or changed organically.

And the boy currently lacks everything else other than the attributes of water.

 “I should confer this matter with Mai. Speak of the Devil, She’s here.”

Mai Shimizu appears during the shadow of the night, appearing using the teleportation skills of her Cloyster at her side. The Leader of the Shimizu clan sauntered on with a confident gait as she gathered herself and came walking towards my throne.

“ I came as soon as you call. Something happened to my son?”

Her face seems to portray a mother’s edge, eye sharp like a Fearow looking for its next meal, her stance sharp as a Skarmory, waiting to take off and strike at a moment’s notice, someone who had mowed down thousands of lives in order to get here. Perhaps that is true for someone like Mai Shimizu. The stuff she heard among the other Daimyo and the other three guardians indicated that Mai Shimizu was the most dangerous guardian of them all.

“How do I tell her that her son cannot master my arts? Will she get offended? Will my clan suffer her wrath? On the other hand...”

They were childhood friends. Only one way to do this, Sudo Hagane could only face it head-on and say it straight to her face and tell her honestly.

“ Your son ... won’t be able to master my technique”

Silence ...

They both kept that state for a few seconds, Sudo Hagane was sitting on her chair languidly but inside she was very cautious, while she knew Mai since she was a little girl, that was before she was the next Patriarch of a guardian clan, and She knew the burdens of becoming the leader of the clan, people change after all.

and yet there was only silence...

It seemed like she was contemplating something.

Mai Shimizu simply nodded and said, “I knew it, so that’s the reason? “

Sudo could not help but raise an eye to that as she wondered what she meant. “ You knew about this? About his...elemental issues?”

Mai Shimizu nodded and shifted her weight around. She’s nervous. A hand comes towards her Katana, gripping it as if to borrow its strength before she shakes her head and focuses on the conversation again and says.

“The same thing happened to me when I was little. All I could do was focus on water energy until ... I had Aoi”

It suddenly hit her. Sudo suddenly remembered a Pokemon called Aoi in the past, but that Pokemon had passed away. It’s no wonder she felt uncomfortable speaking about it. 

“I remember ... Aoi was... A great friend, that Pokemon saved our lives too when we were just kids. What does a Slowpoke have anything to do with this matter? “

Sudo Hagane wondered for a moment if there was any correlation between the Pokemon and mastering different types of energy.

Mai just stood there with a blank face as if contemplating something. She gruffs a rough sound smiled, and said,

“Aoi is a psychic Pokemon, since bonding with him, I was able to sense some psychic energy, not too much, just enough to know how it works and how Pokemon wield it, it’s how I’m able to teach my Cloyster Koko to teleport”

“Cloyster! “

That sinister Cloyster. Sudo could never understand how a shelter could evolve into such a horror show. That Cloyster is probably one of the strongest Pokemon in this region and is one of the scariest underwater battler she’s ever known. The Fortress of Shimizu Koko. Able to bombard any enemies from a thousand yards.

To think that Mai had five others with similar power levels makes her wonder what sort of training they did in order to get that strong. Not even her Steelix is capable of what these beasts of war could do, even so... To think that Mai could navigate psychic energy, it seems that the Origin Water isn’t overpowering the other type of energy. 

There’s still much the Kenshi does not know about True Origins. Blessing of true elements from the gods. The rarest gift of them all and yet all too limited for those who are able to master them. Even ordinary Origin users, while few and rare, did not have this peculiar trait of only wielding a single element.

There’s still much we do not know about the different interactions of Pokemon energy and how it affects aura even among the best-kept secret technique that each clan has kept, even to a seasoned master blacksmith and warrior like her. There are still things out there that she is not privy to.

“ So...since you had a different type of Pokémon, you were able to learn that Pokemon energy type? Being an origin user seems harder than it seems”

Mai just shook her head and said

“It’s the same with my father even if he doesn’t have the Origin of water within him, but he found difficulty in mastering other types of Aura until he had Teddiursa, Since then he has been able to channel the earth and dark-type energy, which allows him to wield that energy as long as his bonded Pokemon is able to perceive it, Origin users just have a deeper connection to their Energy type and perhaps the energy of those type of Pokemon perhaps, albeit a little limiting in certain aspects but...”

Sudo understood what she meant, it just meant that little Kyo needed to have a steel-type Pokémon and bond with that Pokémon in order to feel and generate steel-type energy.

“I see ...but the problem with Pure Origin users like you...”

Mai could only shrug her shoulders

“ All other Pokémon types other than the origin energy are incompatible with a bond, and thus make a poor effort to create a genuine relationship with said Pokémon “

Sudo nodded and understood a little more now. “Does this mean that in order to learn another type of energy, Kyo would need a Water-type with another attribute?”

Mai could only nod and smile helplessly. " Yes, and while it was a long shot, I really thought he could do it and break the origin myth. I never had this problem. Is it because of the purity of One’s Origin energy?"

Mai simply shook her head and said “Scholars from the Shimizu clan have studied much upon this matter and found the Hagane arts tend to skirt around certain rules when it comes to accommodating other elements...such as Fire and Steel or simply replacing an element from tempest to..”

“Wind tempest, or something we call cyclone, the fire tempest. I called that technique Firewhirl and water...I get what you mean. Hagane style is adaptable “

Sudo could only shake her head helplessly. She knew that Mai was doting on the boy too much, but to think she would hold such expectations of him was a tad bit unrealistic, setting up impossible goals for her son.

“And you thought I could teach your little one how to wield another type by utilizing my family arts? insanity.”

Mai didn’t deny the accusation, but this only made Sudo scowl at her friend. She wasn’t angry, nor was she remorseful at how she treated her little boy. He’s only six years old. Sudo knew that the boy needed to uphold his family traditions and expectation as one of the four great heir’s but this is just too much.

 “ Mai, you’re putting him on a pedestal. He’s your son. You shouldn’t force these unrealistic expectations for him to succeed, it’s unhealthy for the both of you, and he’s only six years old.”

 Mai simply shook her head and said, “Every mother wants what is best for her child. He can do it, learning tempest and Aegis where I couldn’t. Him finding a way to wield it in the future, perhaps? I’m investing in his future. “

Sudo can’t help but frown and grumble. She didn’t even know her friend had a kid. Hid him for five years, she did. Almost turned six this year. Who was the father? Why wasn’t he here? She would like to give him a piece of her mind, turning the six-blade arts of Hagane and shove it up his arse, perhaps.

This is not the way of an honourable man, especially someone who sires the son of the Four Great Clans and claims the Ocean’s mistress’ love. Life is certainly not fair.

“I do not know any water and steel type Pokemon. How is he supposed to master it, then?”

Mai then said,

“Empolean retains the Steel typing and water. Our clan does nurture piplups, and perhaps the Ancient Feraligator of the Aishonian Sakura era. One exists, the other a myth. Both have the necessary typing, but to evolve one bondmate to that degree will take time”

“Isn’t that a dragon type?”

Mai simply grumbled and said, “No one knows what happened to it over time. Some say it was a steel type, some say it was a dragon. Either way..it’s a myth”

“So why teach him now? I’ve seen the little one practice with my sister’s Vulpix. The young one is not ready for battle and doesn’t have the necessary drive to get stronger. Doesn’t need to since his young master provides everything. That Totodile is no warrior and certainly no Aishonian Myth. Again, why are you even suggesting to Mai? that your son could train up that pathetic bondmate of his into a legendary myth?”

“Because...I’ve found out that his bonded-“

Bam*

A Kenin came in, Aina. One of her entourage arranged to guard his son. Why is she here? Mai wondered and started worrying for the worse after seeing the panicked face of her retainer.

“T-the young master disappeared!!”

 Author note - hello,  im cloww. Im still learning how to write, please forgive any mistakes ive made.