Sacred Tree and Healing Spring!

"Elder."

Jing He called the little ones to a stop and bowed slightly.

No matter what, one should show at least some respect toward elders and seniors.

Moreover, it was not hard to tell from the Zarude's reactions that this elder held no low status among this group of Zarude—one could even say it was very high.

For Zarude, who preferred to let their fists do the talking, a "wise man" with even a little wisdom was quite rare.

If he could get what he wanted peacefully, Jing He was not someone who enjoyed resorting to blades and guns.

Aura spread outward.

It carried his goodwill with it.

"Zarude?"

Sensing Jing He's Aura and the kindness within it, the elder paused.

It looked at Jing He.

This fine-featured young man looked like a "good person" at first glance.

Then why had he gotten into a fight with the Zarude of its tribe?

Oh~

The elder suddenly understood.

It knew its own Zarude's temperaments better than anyone. They must have provoked him first, started fighting, discovered they could not beat him, then ganged up on him—only to find they still could not beat him.

But that was simply how Zarude did things, so it understood.

It was just that...

That approach was fine against people or Pokémon they could "bully," but if they kicked an iron plate...

Supported by several young Zarude, the elder approached.

The other Zarude quickly gathered around, glaring at Jing He warily.

Papa Zarude wanted to do the same, but after considering that he had already left the Zarude tribe, he ultimately refrained.

Besides...

It had spotted Koko, who had followed them all the way here.

A flicker of helplessness crossed its eyes as it immediately ran over and shielded Koko behind it.

"Zarude!"

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