Lena had always been curious about the old forest that bordered her small town. From the time she was little, she had heard stories about the mysterious woods—how they were filled with strange sounds, hidden creatures, and secrets that no one dared to uncover. Her grandmother would often tell her tales about the forest’s magic, but Lena had always been cautious. She knew the stories were just stories… or so she thought. One bright Saturday morning, feeling adventurous and eager to discover the truth, Lena decided to explore the forest herself. She packed a small bag with water, a notebook, and her favorite pen, then set out just as the sun peeked over the horizon. As she entered the woods, the sunlight filtered through the thick canopy of leaves, casting dancing shadows on the ground. The air was cool and filled with the scent of pine and earth. Lena walked along a narrow trail, listening to the rustling leaves and chirping birds. Every step she took brought a new wonder—bright mushrooms growing on fallen logs, strange markings carved into tree bark, and the distant sound of a bubbling brook. She felt a thrill of excitement and a little fear, knowing that she was venturing into the unknown. After about twenty minutes, Lena reached a small clearing. In the middle stood an ancient tree with roots that twisted and curled like a giant’s fingers. Its trunk was wide and gnarled, and on its bark, Lena noticed strange symbols carved deep into the wood. She hesitated for a moment, then pulled out her notebook and began to sketch the symbols. Suddenly, she heard a soft whispering sound, like the wind but somehow different. Her heart pounded. To her astonishment, a small, glowing creature appeared at the base of the tree. It looked like a tiny fairy, with shimmering wings that sparkled like stained glass. The fairy’s eyes twinkled with kindness, and it spoke in a gentle voice, “You are brave to come here, Lena.” Frozen in awe, Lena stammered, “Who are you? What is this place?” The fairy fluttered closer. “This forest is special—it holds the magic of nature, and it’s protected by those who believe in its wonders. The symbols on this tree are ancient signs of harmony and respect. Only those with a true heart can see and understand them.” Lena listened carefully, feeling a warmth spread inside her. She realized that her curiosity had led her to something extraordinary—a secret world alive with magic that she had only heard about in stories. The fairy explained that she was a guardian of the forest, and she asked Lena if she would promise to protect its secrets and respect its magic. Lena nodded eagerly. She knew that her adventure had changed her. From that day on, she visited the forest often, always mindful of its magic and mysteries. She kept her promise to the fairy, sharing her experience only with those who would honor the woods as she did. Though she never saw the fairy again, Lena could feel her presence whenever she stepped into the forest, a gentle reminder that some stories are real, waiting quietly to be discovered by the brave and kind-hearted.

Answer the following questions based on the passage above.