She tells them she was playing with fairies who guided her to the cave and showed her the secrets of the forest.

The town is in awe of her story and they can’t believe what they are hearing. They try to bring her home, but she refuses and wants to stay there. She insists she can no longer see in that forest, and she believes the fairies will continue to help and protect her.

Realizing that it’s her wish, her parents let her stay. They leave her with a lantern to light her way and told her they will visit regularly. The town eventually came to accept the girl, understanding that the fairies had taken a special liking to her and were watching over her.

The girl was never seen again, but when the autumn leaves changed each year, people said the fairies of the forest glowed even brighter. It was their way of saying hello to the special girl who once lived in their magical place.