How does this passage contribute to the overall meaning of the story

In this example, what does the author use to describe laurie

Which statement contains an opinion? the ants serve to protect the acacia from other plants and herbivores. the acacia depends on pollinators for the exchange of genetic material. the acacia has no chemical defenses to discourage herbivores. the ants provide the acacia with the best protection from other plants and herbivores.

The triumph of night, toward the end if the story , starting on page 5 faxon encounters a man in furs whta function does fcxons interaction with this character serve?