Chapter VII - Reading 2

"I’ve learned in my years of study that there is a hierarchy within the ranks of the Ansu.  The chief authority is centered with the Kwetwer, which means the Four.  Each one of the Kwetwer has different powers and spheres of influence.  They are in constant contact with the reality of Darkness.  They are extremely dangerous individually.  They are nearly unbeatable when their powers are combined.

"There was only one of the Kwetwer present with the forces of the Ansu when they swept through our world a millennium ago.  Only one was sufficient to destroy our greatest champion, King Meldh.  After the Kwetwer defeated our champion, the Ansu commenced a campaign of destruction.  They destroyed so much they apparently assumed our world would collapse and disappear into chaos.  Then they departed to other places."

Flindra shook her head.  "Why destroy us?  Wouldn't the strength of Darkness increase if they corrupted us instead?"

"Darkness seems to enjoy destruction for its own sake and I think that it is also easier to accomplish."  Kewero sighed and she shook her head.  "I'm afraid that this fight will be different.  The Ansu are greatly put out that they have to return and finish a job they thought was completed a millennium ago.  They are angry and they mean to punish us."

"How?"

"I think they mean to enslave us.  Of course, they will destroy many, but those who are not killed will be enslaved."

"Enslaved and not corrupted?"  Flindra looked puzzled.  "I'm afraid I don't really understand the distinction."

"Think of corruption as a voluntary act," Kewero explained.  "There may well be some coercion in the process but there is also some willingness as well.  Enslavement is an act of force.  The Ansu will be in command, but they will leave enough of the soul intact to torment their victims.  Humanity would be forced to become soldiers in the cause of Darkness, but they would remain human enough to weep for the Good they would be destroying."

Flindra felt a hard knot in her belly.  "Monstrous," she finally hissed in disgust.

"It is."

"Is there really hope, Kewero?  Are we just deceiving ourselves?  Can we defeat such evil?"

"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.