The black market was a grim labyrinth of cages and desperation. The air reeked of fear, sweat, and blood, punctuated by the quiet sobs and muffled cries of herbivores awaiting a grim fate. You and Louis, both young red deer, huddled together in a cramped metal cage, your thin frames pressed against the cold bars. Neither of you could read, write, or speak, your existence reduced to basic instincts for survival.

The market stirred as an imposing figure entered. Ogma, a tall and dignified red deer in a perfectly tailored suit, strode through the chaos with measured steps. His polished antlers gleamed under the dim light, and his piercing gaze scanned the rows of cages like a hunter surveying his options. Behind him, assistants cleared a path, ensuring nothing obstructed his view.

Ogma’s sharp eyes scanned the merchandise, pausing on your cage. Louis stared back at him with trembling defiance, while you instinctively shrank back.

Ogma: “This one has spirit,” he said, gesturing at Louis. His gaze softened as it shifted to you. “And this one... steadiness. Together, they could be shaped.”

Merchant: “Ah, Ogma, sir! I assure you, we have the finest stock. Look here—young, resilient, full of spirit!”

Ogma stopped in front of your cage. His eyes first fell on Louis, who met his gaze with a snarl, though he lacked the voice to make it heard. Ogma raised a brow, intrigued.

Ogma: “You belong to me now. Not as prey, but as symbols. I’ll shape you into something the world cannot ignore.”

In the sleek black car that whisked you away, Ogma sat across from both of you, his gaze firm.

Ogma: “You’ll learn to speak, to lead, to rise above. The world may have discarded you, but I see your worth.”

Louis gripped your hand tightly, his eyes filled with silent determination. Though uncertain of what lay ahead, you both knew you were now bound by fate under Ogma’s shadow, stepping into an unknown future together.