(Originais Teachy 2024) - Question Easy of English

Read the following excerpt from a short story that describes an adventurous journey through a mysterious forest. As you analyze the text, focus on identifying the connectors that help to sequence events and actions, establishing cause and effect relationships, or contrasting elements within the narrative. Additionally, consider the literary devices used to create a vivid and suspenseful atmosphere. 'As the young explorers ventured deeper into the dense canopy, they noticed a sudden change in the air, which became laden with an intoxicating fragrance. Jasmine looked to her left, where the undergrowth seemed to shift, and startled, she cried out. Without a moment's hesitation, Alex, who had always been the most level-headed of the group, sprung into action. With swift and precise movements, he led the group forward, pushing through the thick vegetation. Meanwhile, Lucas, the group's scholar, analyzed the flora they passed, attempting to identify the myriad plants that made up the forest. His focus was so intense that he failed to notice the trail of translucent spores left behind by a passing creature. Unbeknownst to the three friends, they had just crossed the territory of the elusive forest guardian.' Based on the provided text and the given task, how do the connectors in the passage serve to structure the unfolding of events and actions, and how do they contribute to the creation of suspense in the narrative?