The gentle elephant king — slow to anger, quick to share mangoes.

The big-hearted bear grandpa — hugs first, questions later.

The owl who has read every book in the tree — twice.

The tortoise judge of the oasis — every dispute ends with tea.

Arrives late to everything except conclusions.

Looks down on everyone — architecturally, not personally.

Wisest at midnight, unavailable before noon.

Won the race once; has coasted magnificently ever since.

Sees everything from the minaret; comments on most of it.

The goose who honks at clouds, mailmen, and injustice.