Chapter Twelve, Reading 4

It was not long before Flindra joined her in the cave. "I missed you at breakfast. Have you been awake long?"
"Not that long. I needed to fetch some things before we started today's discussion."
"What things?"
"Some tools you will need for your quest. It is time when you need to start preparing yourself to leave."
Flindra looked a little surprised at these words, surprised and sad. "So soon?"
"I'm afraid so, child." Kewero reached over and took Flindra's hand.
"I suppose it had to happen sometime," Flindra remarked sadly. "I've learned to feel at home with you, Kewero. It's going to be hard leaving you."
"Thank you for saying so, Flindra. I will miss you, too, but it's time for you to follow your destiny. It was hard for me to leave my beloved King and Queen to search out these caves, but I did what I had to."
Flindra nodded her head slowly. "I know what must be done, Kewero, and will do what is required. I will miss you, dear mother."
Kewero smiled. "We have a few more days together, my child, so let's not get too sentimental quite yet. There are a few more things I need to show you."
"What?"
"Look. I'll show you." Kewero pointed to the old leather satchel. "These are the tokens of your heritage. They will serve as the proof of your birth and as a dowry." She removed the relics of King Meldh from the bag and spread them out for Flindra's inspection. "I've kept these safe from harm since the time His Majesty entrusted them to my care. They are yours."
Flindra picked up the crown and looked at it carefully. "It's beautiful," she murmured. "What shall I do with it?"
"You need to give these treasures to the king who has properly discovered your identity, but only after the choice is made. Your King must determine your nature on his own - without this proof. Never forget, my Princess, that you are the Heir of King Meldh! Don't cheapen yourself by helping the wrong man win your hand. Keep your identity a secret."
"The memories of my forebears are with me, Kewero. I will respect my heritage and I will remember your words," stated Flindra in the tone of an oath.