The Great Tree towered over Lunar. Its height was so grand that it almost seemed to touch the roof of the cave. The occasional leaf or two would flutter down from the tree slowly, but the tree had no signs of decay.

In awe, her paws guided her closer to the Great tree. She settled down at what she believed was a respectable distance and awaited further instructions.

…………….

…………………………..

The crystal fruit fell in front of Lunar, briefly breaking the silence as it made contact with the soft grass. She jumped up, surprised by the sudden gift. But any interaction was better than none, and her little wagging tail couldn't agree more. “Um, thank you!” she said before picking up the fruit.

*Crunch* *Nom nom nom*

The small lynx demolished it within a few bites.

Gratitude. Felt.

As she started to doze off a single leaf landed on her head. Blinking the sleep away, she rose her head to let the leaf continue its descent.

"Lunar," the Great Tree boomed.

"Yes?" she quickly sat up.

"You must leave."

"Huhh?" she tilted her head at the sudden request. "Why?"

"Do you not wish to know what the outside world looks like?"

"It's not that I don't… It's just that you'll be left all alone…" her ears drooped.

The flower interjected. "We have each other, Lunar! And it's not like we're asking for you to leave and never come back. We'll always be here for you if you need a break."

"...Or miss us," it mumbled.

'Wah- of course I'll miss you guys!!!" Lunar started to tear up.

"Don't cry. It'll be hard enough trying to have your eyes adjust to the sun."

She sniffled. "Alright!"

"Follow the source of wind, it will lead you to a gap in the cave's walls." the Great Tree instructed.

Lunar nodded and began her journey to the outside world.