Chapter Seven, Reading 4

"It is not hopeless," Kewero corrected sternly. "We can win because the Spirit wants us to win and will give us assistance when necessary." She smiled to soften her rebuke. "I am here, in this place as a tool of the Spirit. I have been allowed to learn much about our Enemy so don't think the Spirit is distant in this fight. Our Beloved Spirit will help us, but it is our battle. It won't be easy, that I do know. We will be marching through the shadow of death, but that will make our victory so much more rewarding. Never give up hope, child. The Spirit is with us."
Flindra sighed. "It is a big responsibility."
"It is," Kewero responded with compassion in her voice. "We must prepare for the coming battle. That’s why I am here and why you are here."
"Why me?" Flindra asked. "I don't mean to sound like I'm avoiding my responsibilities, but why me? Why didn't the Spirit choose some great and stalwart warrior to lead this fight? I'm nothing special and I don't know the first thing about war. Surely, the Spirit could find someone better than me." She frowned. "When I dreamt of King Meldh, I asked him that same question. He answered that there are advantages to the fact that I'm a woman and can join with the existing power structure, but that seems like a hollow answer. I can't imagine I really have that much to bring to the fight."
"Don't underestimate yourself, Princess Flindra. You have strengths and talents not even you are aware of. Yet. I accept the Spirit's Wisdom. You will be equal to your destiny."
Flindra looked troubled and very unsure.
Kewero reached over and took her hand. "You will be the catalyst who will coalesce our resistance. I understand you had no choice in this, but you are not alone. There are other men and women whose talents and experience will aid your fight. You will draw many to you. Others you will have to seek. You also have been given some valuable tools to use in your fight. The memories of all your ancestors are with you. When there is need, their knowledge, their experience will become yours. And everything I have learned through the years is yours."
"How many years, Kewero?" Flindra finally grew bold enough to ask. "You serve the Spirit, but how do you know all this? How does the Spirit speak to you?"