Questions: The following text is from Srimati Svarna Kumari Devi's 1894 novel The Fatal Garland (translated by A. Christina Albers in 1910). Shakti is walking near a riverbank that she visited frequently during her childhood. She crossed the woods she knew so well. The trees seemed to extend their branches like welcoming arms. They greeted her as an old friend. Soon she reached the river-side. Which choice best describes the function of the underlined portion in the text as a whole? A. It suggests that Shakti feels uncomfortable near the river. B. It indicates that Shakti has lost her sense of direction in the woods. C. It emphasizes Shakti's sense of belonging in the landscape. D. It conveys Shakti's appreciation for her long-term friendships.

Transcript text: The following text is from Srimati Svarna Kumari Devi's 1894 novel The Fatal Garland (translated by A. Christina Albers in 1910). Shakti is walking near a riverbank that she visited frequently during her childhood. She crossed the woods she knew so well. The trees seemed to extend their branches like welcoming arms. They greeted her as an old friend. Soon she reached the river-side. Which choice best describes the function of the underlined portion in the text as a whole? A. It suggests that Shakti feels uncomfortable near the river. B. It indicates that Shakti has lost her sense of direction in the woods. C. It emphasizes Shakti's sense of belonging in the landscape. D. It conveys Shakti's appreciation for her long-term friendships.