An attack was expected in the early morning. Guards were stationed to call the men to battle, and to tell the women which way to flee with their children.
The warriors all were ready. Their chief went out alone under the stars, and prayed that he might be able to save his people from death.
Suddenly a deer with branching horns stood before him. "I have come to tell you that your prayers are heard," he said.
"We, the animals, invite you to our council. We shall give you the power to save your tribe."
They traveled on together until they came to a cave under a rocky bluff near the river. Here the warrior chief was welcomed and given the seat of honor.
Every animal of field and forest, and every bird of the air, had gathered in the immense cavern. There was silence for a moment. Then a great eagle flapped his wings. He stood on a jutting rock in sight of all.
"Your acts of kindness, oh, warrior, are known to us," said the eagle. "You have hunted only for food, as the animals hunt. Your arrows have not been shot to take life without a reason. No bird nor beast has been left by you to suffer and die.
"Therefore, I, the eagle, king of birds, give you of my courage. You shall fear no warlike band, however many. Alone you shall conquer the enemy."