A White Oak Grows

I've been planting trees for a while, but never thought to write about them until now. I've been hunting and trapping for many years. Life after leaving the caves was terrifying at first. I had never seen the sky before, and I was afraid it would swallow me up, or that if I stared too long I'd fall into it. Sky sickness, I've heard it called. The sun pierced my eyes and burned me, so I hid in the shade of large trees during the day. In the cool of the night, I'd wander into openings and look at the sky. The bright blue replaced by so many stars. Every night I looked up, and the stars were different. Always moving, but never absent. I grew to appreciate them and learned how to follow them without getting lost. The trees gave me shelter, gave me food, and shared their bounties with every creature who needed them.
 
I'm not a religious pony, but my kin always mentioned the Moon Princess and how She watches over Her children who live in dark places. Her nights were created for us, and She loves it when we enjoy them. The forest gave me what I needed to thrive, so now I give back. I give back to the animals whom I've hunted, and enrich the soil from which the life here grows. While I may not worship the Moon Princess faithfully, I take every opportunity to tell Her, "Thank you." I plant trees under Her full moon to honor Her so that nature may continue to thrive, and feed those like me who venture out of the caves for the first time.
 
Tonight, I planted a White Oak Tree by the Alverton Fort. White Oaks are magnificent trees. Though not as hardy as Black Oak, a White Oak matures quickly and grows very tall. In 30 years time, this tree will have tall branches and provide enough acorns for thousands of animals. Both predators and prey will find a safe haven here, and should it be needed for lumber it will be crafted into fine wood works. I pray that the Moon Princess blesses this soil in moon light, and that the seasons be fair to this young sapling as it grows. Let it be so.
 
I chose a familiar tree to sleep in that overlooks where I planted my White Oak. The cool breeze sways me to sleep, and I rest easy tonight.