Really appreciate the C+C, thank you all very much.
Took into consideration what Rydin said. It's not really executed well but the idea is there. It'll improve as I keep picking at it and playing with references.
Yellowed the leaves a little, they could probably use it a bit more. Ripped off a bunch of leaves.
EYECRAFT! Means a lot knowing someone saw a level of urgency in the tree's actions. Wish I read your comment earlier, the dead tree idea sounds good. Definitely worth trying. Rocks were erased, dunes might move in soon. I'll try to sprinkle in signs of former life. It'll make his search for water that much more against the odds. Right?

Thank you for the C+C, hope I'm headed in the right direction.
EPDITE!

Small changes with the colors and playing with layering things in the background.
Are the dunes too patterny? Clouds are too sparse I think but I like them more than the previous ones.
I'll probably play with the leaves later tonight.
I'm thinking of adding a bright red bird on his outstretched arm. Might scribble that into existence soon.
Thanks to everyone who has helped me so far.