The Tiger and the Warning Snake

One sunny afternoon, a big, striped tiger named Ror was padding softly through the tall green jungle. He was enjoying his walk when he heard a tiny, strange noise.

"Hsss," went the sound, very close to the ground.

Ror stopped and looked around, his big paws freezing mid-step. Peeking out from under a bright green fern, the tiger saw a long, bright yellow snake slowly slithering along.

"Hey there! Did you just call out to me?" Ror asked, his voice a deep rumble.

The snake stopped moving and looked up with dark, shiny eyes.

"Yes, I did!" the snake replied, its voice a soft whisper. "My name is Slink. I wanted to make sure you knew I was here, so that you won't accidentally step on me! If you did, I might get scared and give you a little ouchie with my fangs."

Ror tilted his head. He was a mighty tiger, but he was also smart and didn't want any trouble.

"Thank you, Slink," said Ror, taking a careful step to the side. "That was very kind of you to give me a warning. You're a small creature, and I'm a big one. I didn't see you at all!"

Slink flicked its tongue. "We all have to look out for each other in the jungle, big or small! Now that you know I'm here, you can walk around safely."

Ror smiled, showing his big white teeth, but it was a friendly smile. "You are absolutely right. I will watch my steps very carefully from now on. Have a wonderful day, Slink, and keep being a great lookout!"

With a gentle nod of his head, Ror stepped carefully past the little yellow snake, continuing his walk through the jungle with a newfound respect for all the creatures, no matter their size. And Slink happily continued on his way, proud that he had looked out for the big, rumbling tiger.

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