The Dark Is Rising Fate vs. Free Will Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #10

"But it's for the future, Will, don't you see? That is what the Signs are for. They are the second of the four Things of Power, that have slept these many centuries, and they are a great part of our strength. Each of the Things of Power was made at a different point in Time by a different craftsman of the Light, to await the day when it would be needed." (13.51)

In the end, the Lady tells Will that the Signs will help them defeat the Dark again. Even though we've just been told that everyone has free will, we can't help but notice that what she's saying is only possible if fate rules the universe. So which is it? Over to you, Shmoopers.