Sasakikojirou

Sasakikojirou was never taken seriously in The Heart of the Forest. With their dramatic war paint and loud, expressive face, the other Chimps saw a performer, not a protector. They would tell grand stories of exploring the rough outer forests, and the food-obsessed locals would just smile, offering them another berry tart for their amusing tales. But when a sudden storm washed out the main bridge, stranding a family on the far side of the river, the laughter stopped. Sasakikojirou simply nodded, adjusted their pack, and waded into the churning water alone. They returned hours later, soaked and silent, with the family in tow. The paint is still considered odd, but it no longer draws smiles. It draws nods of respect.