Cubis the little monkey set out happily in the late afternoon, swinging from branch to branch with a cheerful hum. He had spent the day playing near the riverbank, collecting smooth stones and chasing butterflies. The sky was cloudy, but Cubis didn’t worry. He believed he could reach home before sunset, just like always.
Suddenly, the wind picked up. Dark clouds rolled in quickly, and a loud rumble of thunder echoed through the forest. Before Cubis could react, heavy rain poured down in thick sheets. The trees swayed wildly, and the ground became slippery in seconds. Cubis clutched a branch tightly as rain splashed into his eyes, making it hard to see.
He tried to move forward, but the path he knew so well now looked frightening. Small streams formed across the trail, and fallen leaves hid sharp stones underneath. A flash of lightning lit up the forest, and Cubis’s heart raced. “This is too dangerous,” he thought, his tail trembling. For the first time, Cubis felt truly afraid.
The rain grew heavier, soaking his fur and weighing him down. His hands slipped as he climbed down a tree, and he nearly fell. Breathing fast, Cubis remembered what his mother always told him: When you’re scared, stop and think. He looked around and spotted a large hollow tree nearby. Using the last of his strength, he dashed toward it and squeezed inside.
Safe for the moment, Cubis curled up and waited. He listened to the pounding rain and thunder outside, whispering softly to himself to stay calm. Time passed slowly, but at last the storm began to fade. The rain softened, and the forest grew quiet again.
When Cubis finally stepped out, he saw a familiar figure running toward him—his mother. She had noticed the sudden storm and came searching immediately. She pulled Cubis into a tight hug, her eyes filled with relief. “I was so worried,” she said.
Cubis held onto her, realizing how close he had come to danger. As they walked home together, he learned an important lesson: nature can change in an instant, and being careful is the bravest choice of all.
