The Tequila Council was in session — Big Tequila on the right, Little Tequila on the left, Circle Tequila humming in the middle like a wise old oracle — when James marched in carrying not one but two new recruits.

A pink weighted dino, heavy with authority.
And a red panda, whom James immediately renamed “Red Tiger” because accuracy is optional in this kingdom.

He plopped them down in front of the council like he was unveiling new cabinet members.

The Tequilas stared.
Or… continued staring, because they’re plush.
But in James’s mind, they were scandalized.

James cleared his throat with the seriousness of a man about to announce a merger.

“Tequilas,” he said, “we have new friends.”

Big Tequila remained stoic.
Little Tequila leaned left, which James interpreted as deep suspicion.
Circle Tequila vibrated, which James took as applause.

James placed a hand on the pink dino’s head.
“This is Dino. She is heavy. She keeps order.”

Then he pointed at Red Tiger.
“And this is Red Tiger. He is fast. And sneaky. And he bites bad guys.”

The Tequilas said nothing.
James took this as acceptance.

He climbed onto his pillow throne and continued.

“Dino will sit by me. Red Tiger will sit by Tequila. No fighting. No chewing socks. No falling off the bed. This is a serious meeting.”

The new recruits settled in.
The Tequilas adjusted to their new neighbors.
James looked over his expanded council with pride.