The silhouette of a lone squirrel stood sharp against the pearly morning sky . . .

No, wait—how about this: Two squirrels trudged wearily along. They were already far from home. They were headed even farther. Darkness settled around them and made it hard to move. Still, they kept on.

That is so gloomy. Does it have to be so gloomy

Okay, how about:
"Danger" said the squirrel.
"Ha! I laugh at danger."

You didn't make that up. Someone else made that up.

Okay. You start it, then.

What's the story It depends on who you ask.