Question

why does the family cower in a cave

Answer 1

<<Since the question does not talk about any family in particular, I am giving a generic answer.>>

The family was returning to their village after attending a function in the nearby town. On the way, they had to pass through a forest area. It was getting dark and they were afraid that wild animals would be on the prowl and find them. They were sure that they would get attacked by wild beasts. Not knowing what to do, they looked around them. It was then that they found a cave in a deserted corner. They decided that the best way to escape from the wild beasts would be to take shelter in the cave at night and resume their journey in the morning. So, the family cowered in the cave.