Animating the Aura
There is a way to animate the aura without having 84 (eep!) joints Darksun.
Divide the aura into 'disc' segments that will rotate upwards, or downwards when flying etc.
I realise that by grouping the aura together in 'discs' the radii of the aura cannot be changed, so therefore you make about 12 individual segments, about 6 designed to be 'small' segments, and about 6 for the larger (mid-section) segment.
By manipulating the overall motion of the model it can be made to look like one continuous aura, when its really just lots of identical pieces moving only slightly.
I made an 'electric' aura a while ago, and had the idea about doing this, but i've since had the chore of finishing school.
As of tomorrow 12 noon I will be finished schooling forever, and will make my return to the esf forums
Anyway, If you dont understand what I mean, i'll create a mock up this week and send it to you. Its easy!