Rurina, known as Nessa, balances dual roles as the Hulbury Stadium Gym Leader specializing in Water-types and a model. She awards the Water Badge to victorious challengers. Her deep affinity for Water-types stems from a defining childhood encounter with a Feebas. Years later, she recognizes this same Feebas, now a Milotic, during a pivotal moment.

Following a Champions Cup defeat by Milo, she confronts professional uncertainty about her future path. While modeling aboard a ship, she dives to interact with approaching Water-type Pokémon and reunites with her childhood Milotic. This profound experience solidifies her resolve to pursue both careers.

Her battle team features a Drednaw, evolved from Chewtle and known to use Crunch. She also owns an Inteleon, seen during modeling work. The Milotic remains a significant companion, though its specific moves are undocumented.

She makes minor appearances in other episodes: a brief scene in "Letter," appearing alongside a Qwilfish in the water during "Buddy," and featuring in the special "The Gathering of Stars" without a detailed role. Her uniform bears the number "049," referencing the Japanese word "oyogu" (泳ぐ), meaning "to swim."