The majestic male deer stepped out of the autumnal foliage into the woodland glade, his antlers reaching toward the sky like a crown. "I am the king of this sacred wood," he declared, his voice echoing through the ancient trees.

A small rabbit, who had been nibbling on a fern, looked up in surprise. "You?" she squeaked. "But I've never seen you around here before!"

The deer puffed out his chest proudly. "That's because I only emerge in times of great need. The forest is in danger, and I've come to protect it."

The rabbit's eyes grew wide. "In danger? From what?"

The deer lowered his voice to a secret whisper. "The humans are coming, armed with their machines and their destruction. I must rally the animals of the wood to defend their home." He turned to the rabbit. "Will you join my cause, little one?"