What do you think about Zoruas?
Thanks for the ask! Zorua and its evolved form are quite unique Pokémon, with an even more unique history. We'll be covering Zorua, Zoroark, and their ancient counterparts!
Zoura is a small, black and red, fox-like, Dark type Pokémon. They are often shy and cowardly in nature, and have below-average offensive and defensive capabilities.
Due to their timid disposition, middling battle prowess, and rarity of females, Zorua are often outcompeted and are therefore very rare Pokémon in most regions. To date, they are only found in large numbers in the Isle of Armor in Galar, and Tagtree Thicket and the grasslands surrounding Medali in Paldea.
Apparently due to these difficulties, Zorua has developed an entirely unique ability. This is referred to as Zorua's signature Ability, Illusion.
Illusion allows a Zorua to project an image onto itself, with the primary aim of fooling opposing Pokémon into fleeing from a potential threat. To this end, the Illusion is extremely convincing, and almost impossible to see through. If the Zorua is damaged, the illusion falters and loses its effectiveness. Pokémon Trainers use this Ability to fool their opponent into a disadvantageous type matchup.
Zoura are documented as occasionally disguising as a human child. This form is used to search for food without irritating non-territorial Pokémon. It may also attempt to garner sympathy from humans to be given food.
Zorua are capable of using their Illusion ability from birth, but may need to learn to refine it; there's at least one record of a Zorua's disguise featuring its distinct tail!
Zoroark, the evolved form of Zorua, is a bipedal Pokémon, standing at 1.6 meters. Zoroark is still a fairly cautious creature, but has become quite adept in both physical and special attacks. Zoroark live in groups, sometimes caring for several Zorua at a time. They can use their offensive aptitude to defend themselves and their group with great ferocity, gladly putting their own life on the line if they believe it necessary.
Zoroark has also perfected the Illusion technique. Its disguise is indistinguishable from reality, and it can even extend the effect to its surroundings and project illusory attacks.
Hisuian Form: Ghosts of the Past
There is some evidence that Zorua used to be a more widespread species. Due to their deceptive nature, especially in disguising as children, Zorua were largely driven out of regions by humans. While they found some safe havens in Galar and Paldea, the lands of Hisui (modern-day Sinnoh) were not so kind.
Driven away from more hospitable lands by competitors, Zorua found themselves in the cold north, near the future site of Snowpoint City (referred to by settlers as the Alabaster Icelands). According to legend, these Zorua were unable to survive in this climate and perished, only to return as vengeful spirits.
According to contemporary sources, Hisuian Zorua were highly resentful of humans and Pokémon alike, and were extremely distrusting. They retained the ability to project illusions but did so using their spite and hatred. Now more adapted to their environment, Hisuian Zorua used their abilities to torment others. These Zorua were also apparently able to derive sustenance from the fear it inflicted.
A Hisuian Zorua was able to evolve into a Hisuian Zoroark. This form had a frightening appearance and was even connected to a legend of death. It also had even further mastery over its Illusions, such as being able to mimic human speech while disguised as a human or casting Illusions which could actually cause physical harm to a target. Much like modern Zoroark, they were fiercely protective of their group. They were even more distrusting of outsiders than Hisuian Zorua, but could apparently become an invaluable ally to their Trainer if taken care of properly and with great patience.
To more directly answer your question... I think Zorua are adorable! I feel like we'd be a decent match. Not that I'm looking for one, mind; they're tough to get your hands on where I am, and I'm looking after enough Pokémon already.
