I stared up the massive tree trunk, my eyes roaming the darkness. Seeing no danger amidst the black forest they returned to me. I took a few steps toward the base of the tree. I was just able to make out it’s outline through the deep gray light. I slowly climbed onto the tree base, my eight legs finding enough grip to keep me on. Memory flashed through my mind and I saw all the previous times I had attempted to climb the tree. Slowly, with deep slow breaths and my mandibles clicking furiously, I began to climb.

As I made my way up one of the trees of Limelight, I hoped that this walk would be different. I hoped I would reach the top and whatever awaited me there.