In many fables and stories, the animals of the forest often speak to the lion with a mixture of respect, fear, and sometimes cleverness. Here are some common themes and examples of what they might say:

• Appeals for Mercy: When caught or threatened, animals might plead for their lives, promising good behavior or offering a deal.
• Requests for Justice: If the lion is seen as a ruler, animals might bring grievances or ask for fair judgment in disputes.
• Warnings and Advice: Sometimes, smaller, wiser animals might offer the lion advice or warnings about dangers they foresee.
• Challenges to Authority: In stories with a rebellious theme, animals might question the lion's authority or challenge his dominance.

Here are a few examples of what the animals might say:

• "Oh, mighty Lion, spare my life, and I shall be your loyal servant!"
• "Your Majesty, the jackals are stealing our food, we beg you to intervene!"
• "Great Lion, I sense a trap ahead, be wary of the hunter's snares!"
• "Lion, you rule by fear, but true strength lies in wisdom and compassion!"

The exact words would depend on the specific story and the relationship between the lion and the other animals.