Valley of Power

Descending the Cliffs of Compassion into the Valley of Power, I am made aware of my own weakness and need of the Spirit-of-Might, whom I will meet in the river basin below. The jagged rock walls of the mountains loom over me. I feel small and insignificant. Soon I must join a raid team that will enter the dangerous Dragon Lands, risking my life for the great OverLord of Many Names.

I am also entering the beautiful valley below, resplendent with its legendary orchards, because my raid team will need me to have a full realization of the Spirit's power when we go together on our first DragonRaid. Each of us will need to be strong in TwiceBorn character - each must learn how to live in the Mighty Spirit's power!

I travel this narrow path that winds down the cliffs, trusting in the powerful promise of the Sacred Scrolls:

But the fruit of the Spirit is love,

joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,

faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.

Against such things there is no law.

Galatians 5:22,23

Having resolved my mind and overcome my desire to self-direct my life, I walk down the narrow path (Matthew 7:14) into the valley, seeking spiritual power for warfare against the evil dragons of the planet called Eden Again.

As I leave the enormous cliffs to enter the valley, I begin to smell a fragrance I greatly desire! It is a pure aroma - one one so strong and immaculate that it must be deadly to wickedness. It is the smell of the TwiceBorn perfume spoken of in the Sacred Scrolls:

But thanks be to God, who always leads us in

triumphal procession in Christ and through us spreads

everywhere the fragrance of the knowledge of Him.

For we are to God the aroma of Christ among those who

are being saved and those who are perishing. To the

one we are the smell of death; to the other, the fragrance of life.

2 Corinthians 2:14-16

I cannot yet see the nine orchards ahead, each with its own special type of fruit. Those who have gone before me have spoken of a strong fragrance, the perfumes of the nine fruits drifting on the winds that blend them into a blissful aroma.

The path winds through a dense grove of aspen trees, their quivering leaves fluttering in the gentle breeze that carries the lovely aroma. Suddenly, the trail leads right up to a huge granite cliff wall that blocks my way. On the massive rock is written these words:

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with

the Spirit.

Galatians 5:25

Trying to understand the meaning of these words, my mind goes back to something I learned from the Sacred Scrolls at the LightRaider Academy:

Those who live according to the sinful nature have

their minds set on what that nature desires; but

those who live in accordance with the Spirit have

their minds set on what the Spirit desires.

Romans 8:5

The path seems to lead right into the rock wall. It is a well-traveled trail, and a heel mark lies in the dust - as if the toe of someone's boot disappeared into the stone! Gently, I place my foot against the rock to see if I too can walk through the wall. But my toe only rests up against it. I will have to figure out what the saying on the stone barrier means.

Again, I look at the inscription:

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with

the Spirit.

(This is what I come up with as an explanation of those words written on the

cliff that blocks my way.)

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Compare your answer with the ANSWERS section, [A].

When I say aloud my understanding of the words on the gigantic boulder, a narrow path through the rock opens up. I can just barely squeeze through. All that I can see on the other side is sky. But I really want the TwiceBorn Fragrance! And so I walk ahead, right through the boulder cliff.

When I come out of the other side of the boulder wall, I find myself overlooking a beautiful orchard, still some distance ahead and about a thousand feet below. A trail leads down, and I hurry forward with much excitement. At first, the rabbits in my path scurry away; but then, as I round a bend moments later, I find at least a hundred blocking my path. Out front is a smaller, brown and white rabbit, who apparently wants to say something to me. I gently sit down in front of them and wait.

"It is written in the Sacred Scrolls," begins the smaller rabbit, "that you will fight evil with uncommon weapons, powers that only the TwiceBorn have. So it says in the Scrolls: 'For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.' If you can find the reference to this verse, we can proceed with our conversation."

I find the reference to the verse quoted is ___________________.

Compare your answer with the ANSWERS section, [B].

"You will travel through nine orchards," continues the rabbit leader. "Each orchard yields one fruit which, when eaten, will give you one new character strength. After eating all of the fruits, you will be sent into the Dragon Lands for a brief encounter that will test that new strength of character and show you your new power from the Spirit-of-Might.

"But before we can let you pass, we must know that you can name by memory the nine fruits of the Spirit-of-Might. They are named in Galatians 5:22-23. Can you name them without looking in the Sacred Scrolls?"

1._______________ 2._______________ 3._______________

4._______________ 5._______________ 6._______________

7._______________ 8._______________ 9._______________

Compare your answer with the ANSWERS section, [C].

[When you can name the nine fruits of the spirit, go to Section Sect. 7]

[Sect. 2] The castle gates open and out rides the most handsome man I have ever seen. His features take my breath away - and he appears to be about my age! Seeing me, he brings his horse to an abrupt stop.

He invites me into the castle, and I accept. Over the following days, he shows me about his halls and we explore the countryside together. We are never far apart, and within a week he falls deeply in love with me. As he is the prince of this hold, it is assumed that we will wed. His family is highly favored by the local dragons.

[Go to section Sect. 11]

[Sect. 3] The trees wait until they are satisfied I understand their meaning, that to have the power of Love means to do what the Almighty One desires, even if it risks my own well-being. Having overcome the world, the TwiceBorn see beyond its comforts to its hurts, as well as seeing beyond its pleasures to the far better life in the Land Beyond the Darkness. The Spirit of Might gives us power to live only for the OverLord of Many Names.

Then a golden fruit drops into my hands. "Good aim," I say to myself. Examining the fruit, whatever it is called, I notice that it is perfect. There are no bruises, blemishes or deformities. "The Love Fruit - that's its name," I say aloud. And with that discovery, I eat the Spirit's fruit.

(What do you remember about what the bible says about ‘Love’? Research verses about 'Love' in your bible's concordance, and write the references down here.)

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Suddenly a path materializes in front of me. It leads deeper into the trees. Do I follow it?

[If YES, go to Sect. 4]

[If NO, go to Sect. 6]

[Sect. 4] As I walk into the orchard, the Song gets louder until I stand before a small, very deep pool of crystal clear water. I drink a little. It is so refreshing!

Then across the small water hole, I see footprints appear, sinking into the turf one after another, and traveling toward the tiny pond. As each invisible foot makes its impression into the grass surrounding the pool, pure fire briefly flares and goes out before scorching the grass. It is as though invisible fire is walking towards the pool.

As the footprints draw near to the edge of the pool, the water hole suddenly turns into a very deep whirlpool. The water below the swooshing funnel seems bottomless.

The footprints of fire walk into the water funnel and disappear. I stand before the whirlpool in awe.

(What will you do?)

[I don't know what to do, go to Sect. 12]

[I walk into the whirlpool, go to Sect. 9]

[I leave the orchard, go to Sect. 5]

[Sect. 5] The moment you step out of the miraculously enchanted orchard you find yourself back home. The whole marvelous scene has vanished, because you did not want to keep in step with the Spirit of Might and enter the whirlpool.

The power of Love could have helped you risk your life in the service of the OverLord.

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Galatians 5:25

Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.

John 15:13

[If you change your mind about leaving the orchard, go back to Sect. 4]

[Sect. 6] Why not? Everything that has happened to you in this grove is good. There is no evil in the orchard.

[If you change your mind and follow the path, go to Sect. 4]

[Sect. 7] A most beautiful orchard lies before me, one of nine that I will travel to gain and test new strengths. As I draw nearer I hear music and song - it is coming from the orchard itself! The trees are singing to the OverLord of Many Names! Bright golden fruit, narrow at both ends and bulging in the middle, hangs gracefully from slender branches.

The Song of the Trees is a hint to what Character Strength is to be gained in their midst. The melody is a mixture of the rustle of leaves and the sweetness of new fruit. I listen to the words:

Grant us great power to but selfless be,

Wanting to serve not ourselves, only Thee.

Purge us from aimless and needless desires,

Let us join the battle of holy fires!

Trying to remember my training at the LightRaider Academy and pulling out my LightRaider Handbook to study the definitions of the nine Character Strengths, I try to decide which of the nine I will gain in this marvelous orchard. I know that the Song of the Trees is all the hint I will need.

I conclude that the fruit I will gain here is _______________.

(List the reasons you have decided this.)

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(Look up in your own copy of the Sacred Scrolls - the Bible - the following verses:)

Nehemiah 5:10-15 Galatians 4:11-20

Matthew 5:41-48 Revelation 2:1-6

Mark 12:29-33 Luke 6:31-35

(What do these verses teach about Love?)

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[After you have filled in the blanks, go to section Sect. 13]

[Sect. 8] In the morning I ride out with the words of the Too Good To Be True WordRune on my lips. The castle guards, who always insist on accompanying me when I am apart from my betrothed, follow behind me. I wonder if there is any chance of escape.

I cry out to the OverLord for help. A large part of my heart still lies with those wonderful dreams of marriage and castle life. I ask Him that I not turn back. And I ask for a way of escape.

The Holy and True One sends help. There before my horse's hooves are footprints running and indenting the soil, the faintest flicker of flame visible from each footprint. The Spirit of Might has come!

But the footprints are speeding so far ahead of me that I am fearful I will not be able to follow. Just as I am about to lose track of them, the footprints disappear into a tree....a Hollow Tree!

Jumping off my horse and dodging arrows from my pursuers, I dash into the breach in the tree....and in the next instant I find myself climbing out of the tiny but deep water hole. A path leads from the pool out of the Love orchard.

My new Love Character Strength held. I passed the test!

[Go to Sect. 15]

[Sect. 9] The water funnel pulls me down so quickly that I almost don't have time to begin holding my breath. I go so far down that it seems I can never get back up, and I will surely drown. I have never been without air this long before. I can't do it! Finally, unable to endure, I gasp for air, knowing that water instead will rush in. But, to my surprise, it is air that greets my lungs. And I am completely dry! In fact, I am actually standing before the closed gates of the most marvelous castle I have ever seen.

[If you are a male LightRaider, go to Sect. 14]

[If you are a female LightRaider, go to Sect. 2]

[Sect. 10] I am given time to make my decision, but as the weeks [months?] pass, the comeliness of my betrothed and the pleasures of the castle luxury turn dull as I eventually remember the OverLord's love for me and my vows to Him.

[If you decide not to wed, you must recite the Too Good to be True WordRune, then go to Sect. 8]

Too Good to be True WordRune

2 Timothy 2:22

Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and

peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

[Sect. 11] If I wed and become royalty in this wonderful castle, I would have it all! My days would be spent doing just as I please. I would never have to do any boring work. The palace physician would take care of all my health needs, and cooks and squires would wait on me hand and foot - and not only me, but my family as well!

What should I do?

[If you decide to wed, go to Sect. 10]

[If you decide to flee, you must recite the Too Good To Be True WordRune

and then go to Sect. 8]

Too Good to be True WordRune

2 Timothy 2:22

Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and

peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

[Sect. 12] You remember the verse that opened the Guardian Stone:

Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Galatians 5:25

[If you still don't know what to do, think about it for a while.]

[If you walk into the whirlpool, go to Sect. 9]

[If you leave the orchard, go to Sect. 5]

[Sect. 13] I realize that it is the Love Character Strength that I will gain from eating the fruit of this orchard. Love gives the TwiceBorn power to turn from serving themselves. It is not a feeling, but a conscious decision. It is the ability to deny self and follow the OverLord, doing good all the time. It is the ability to wait for the Glorious Land Beyond Death rather than spend useless effort on gaining security and comfort on EdenAgain during the Short Sojourn.

As this truth sinks into my very soul, an extraordinarily large leaf floats down to me on a gentle breeze. On it is written a verse from the Sacred Scrolls:

This is love for God: to obey his commands.

And his commands are not burdensome,

for everyone born of God overcomes the world.

1 John 5:3-4a

(Do you know what this verse teaches? Write down your thoughts.)

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[After writing what this verse means to you, go to Sect. 3]

[Sect. 14] The castle gates open and out rides the most gorgeous woman I have ever seen. Her beauty takes my breath away - and she appears to be about my age! Seeing me, she brings her horse to an abrupt stop.

She invites me into the castle, and I accept. Over the following days, she shows me about her halls and we explore the countryside together. We are never far apart, and within a week she falls deeply in love with me. As she is the princess of this hold, it is assumed that we will wed. Her family is highly favored by the local dragons.

[Go to Sect. 11]

[Sect. 15] I leave the Love Orchard newly empowered with the ability to deny my own safety, comfort and pleasure. I am now able to wholeheartedly embrace the work of the OverLord of Many Names and be truly useful to others.

But I find an iron gate blocking my path! From beyond the gate comes a pleasant smell, an intensification of one of the nine fruity aromas that make up the wonderful TwiceBorn fragrance.

The gate that bars my way is delicately ornate and joins huge boulders on both sides. Its rusty latch is locked tightly and the gate is quite strong. I try the Gate Opening WordRune.

Gate Opening WordRune

Psalm 118:20

This is the gate of the LORD through which the righteous may enter.

[When you can say the Gate Opening WordRune

from memory, go to Sect. 24]

[Sect. 16] I stand there pondering the evil that these greedoes are perpetrating. In many ways, these dark creatures use the same strategy as did the Great Red Dragon while in the Garden of Eden. The dragon talked the woman Eve into desiring more than what was good for her. These greedoes in front of me are selling dragon slaves into bondage to things that keep them from having time for relationships with people. They are selling a false happiness, one that will blow away and disappear overnight.

I wander down the market way, listening to the babble of its many merchants. The market is centered around a crossroads, the main road leading to the village of Dragon's Hoard in one direction and Funhaven in the other. The crossroad is a smaller path, leading to Vainglory one way and Goodbegone the other.

Then I spot it, there in the middle of the Crossroads: the Hollow Tree escape. A group of children, not realizing what it is, run in and out of it while they play. But through the open crack in the tree, I can see the pool through which I came.

An ugly greedo hails me from his booth. I approach cautiously. Up close, this creature is repulsive.

The greedo tries to sell me a very pleasurable package. He is selling a combination easy chair and large-screen crystal ball. With it comes a complete schedule of events and their times so that I can peek in whenever I want. He says to me, "There is no more important thing in life than watching others having fun! He who dies with the most toys, wins!"

(Write your reply here.)

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[After you have written your reply, go to Sect. 26]

[Sect. 17] Why do neither of the choices sound acceptable to you?

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[When you have written your answer, go to Sect. 28]

[Sect. 18] I soon realize that it is the power of Faithfulness that has blossomed within me. The potential to be unshakably enduring in loyalty to the OverLord of Many Names is beginning to grow inside me. I will be able to be trustworthy and dependable in His service. The Spirit of Might is helping me let the Highest One have my affection and my heart.

(Look up in your own copy of the Sacred Scrolls - the Bible - the following verses:)

2 Chronicles 13: 4-20 Hebrews 3:1-11

Esther 14 Mark 5: 25-34

(What do these verses teach about Faithfulness?)

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I sit in the Lavender Grove and ponder how such faithfulness can be useful in my life on this war-torn planet.

(Write down a few ways such power can be helpful

in relating to friends, family, and employer.)

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[When finished, go to Sect. 27.]

[Sect. 19] I ponder the situation, and after a while a verse from the Sacred Scrolls comes into my thoughts. It is Isaiah 29:13:

The Lord says:

'These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me

with their lips, but their hearts are far from me.

Their worship of me is made up only of rules taught by men.'

(Write out your interpretation of this verse and how it

applies to the wares that the greedo is selling.)

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[Go to Sect. 30]

[Sect. 20] Then I hear a particularly persuasive greedo speaking loudly. I turn and see a mob of dragon slaves surrounding him and listening intently. I walk over to see what this dark creature is selling that no one needs.

Why, he is selling copies of the Sacred Scrolls! I hear him say, "These Sacred Scrolls will help you better serve the dragons and receive all of the good that they have to give you."

I yell out to refute the blasphemies the greedoe is saying.

(What do you yell?)

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[Go to Sect. 23]

[Sect. 21] I purchase as many books as I can carry and head for the Hollow Tree to return to the Liberated Land. I walk into the tree and nothing happens. Some playing children push me out the other side.

What is wrong ?

(Write what you think is wrong.)

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[Go to Sect. 19]

[Sect. 22] Of course, they cannot follow me back into the Liberated Land. I look around me and find that I am on the edge of the lavender Faithfulness Orchard. Once more my new character strength has held! I was faithful to the OverLord. Great satisfaction flows through my heart, suffusing me down to my very being.

[Go to Sect. 33]

[Sect. 23] The greedo gets angry when I tell the people that what he is selling is not the Sacred Scrolls. The people begin to drift away, beyond the reach of his greedy grasp.

Then the dark creature yells at the top of his ugly voice, "TWICEBORN! BE ON YOUR GUARD!" Suddenly there is an eruption of noisy confusion, and before I know it I am surrounded by all of the greedoes. Some have weapons, others bring rope, ready to tie me up - or hang me, I realize with a shudder.

Then I spot my escape: the Hollow Tree is within their circle! Cautiously, I begin to edge toward it. The greedoes aren't concerned; they're convinced they have me trapped, and that one tree can hardly protect me from all of them.

[Go to Sect. 31]

[Sect. 24] The mighty words of the Sacred Scrolls show their power once more as the Gate Opening WordRune unlatches the lock. I walk excitedly into this second orchard of the Valley of Power and wonder what gift of strength will be provided here.

The dainty trees of this grove grow purple, and their leaves are a somewhat lighter shade than the wood. Bright red fruits hang in clusters. Awed by the beauty of the trees, I sit down on the springy turf to pray and ask for whatever the OverLord has for me in His Lavender Grove.

Then a cluster of fruit drops into my resting hands, its red fruit staining my palms as with blood. I choose to eat the juice-filled berries.

Whether from the fruit or the serenity about me, I doze. The next thing I know, I am fighting my way uphill through vicious orcs. Their numbers press on every side, and their stink causes my stomach to cramp. Were it not for the Great Cause in which I fight, I would quit and run. But I feel the Power in me as I lash out at the evil around me.

My sword carves a wide berth of judgment through the thronging evil, but one orc strikes true and gashes my left arm. My shield immediately falls to the ground. I try to ignore the injury, for I must fight or die from many more wounds. If this injury finishes my life, so it must be.

Excruciating pain flows throughout my body from that one large gash and I almost faint. But in the brief moment of darkness, I see a marvelous light!

It is my Master, the OverLord of Many Names. And He is at the front of the charge. That brief sight of the Righteous One revives me, and I rush at the orcs above me on the hill with renewed hatred of evil and eyes only for my BattleLord.

I break the vicious orc ranks and reach the top of the hill. Immediately I search to see if I can spot my OverLord. I am aware of no other wish than to stick by Him.

But instead, I awake from the dream. I feel stronger, as though filled with some kind of new strength. In the quiet contemplation that sometimes accompanies waking, I ponder the meaning of the vision.

(Can you decide which one of the nine Fruits of the Spirit has taken root in you?

Write it down.)

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[Go to Sect. 18]

[Sect. 25] I reject the greedoe's offer to buy either the books of rules or the wishing wells. He stands there perplexed. So many other "LightRaiders" have taken him up on his offer before. But I just walk off, leaving him to wonder.

[Go to Sect. 20]

[Sect. 26] My reply takes the greedo by surprise, and I leave him scratching his head in bewilderment. I guess most of the dragon slaves succumb to that philosophy. I walk away before the lustful creature has time to mount an argument.

I survey the many booths and their wares. Soon I have seen enough of the whole affair. Compassion for the unsuspecting people urges me to ask the Eternal One to protect the dragon slaves from the hollow life of living to own things. I also ask to clearly see my assignment here at the Greedo Market.

No sooner have I finished asking for help than I notice a particularly aggressive greedo calling to me. Maybe this is the place of battle. I walk over.

In a hushed voice this greedo says, "Do not be alarmed. I am secretly looking for someone interested in the OverLord of Many Names. I have some merchandise that may interest them. Might you be one of those who roam the nearby forests and call themselves LightRaiders?"

I have heard about these false "LightRaiders" in my training at the Academy! They are dragon slaves, still Once Born, who have heard and believed the story of the Great Rescue, but in a distorted way. They believe that, though the OverLord died for their sins, they cannot reap the eternal benefits of His death unless they live good lives.

We know this to be a sinister lie of the dragons. No one can become a member of the TwiceBorn through his own efforts. The Great Rescue is all done by the One-Who-Died-and-Rose-Again. Good works are not a way to salvation from the Horrible Fire; good works gain nothing with the Holy One before acceptance of the Great Rescue. But once a person has become TwiceBorn through belief, then good actions are acceptable as signs of thankfulness for having been rescued from eternal punishment.

I conclude that this greedo thinks I am one of these counterfeit LightRaiders. I decide that I will act interested and see if I can discover his scheme. So I say that I am indeed a LightRaider, a true but potentially dangerous admission. As I do so, I sense a need for the power of Faithfulness, the new strength I have been given for this assignment.

Hearing that I am a LightRaider, and assuming that I belong to a whole band of outlaws with whom I live, the greedo smiles and rubs his hands together as he prepares to speak. "Then you will be very interested in what I have to offer you!" he says. "You will be able to help your fellow LightRaiders and at the same time make a great deal of money."

He reaches into a large bag and pulls something from the bottom, something he has obviously hidden for this occasion. "You know," he continues, "that those who follow the OverLord of Many Names love to read books. They want all the help they can get to live right. Well, I have here a Book of Rules for LightRaider Living. You can make much wealth by selling these."

"And I will give you a special price for buying from me in bulk," he continues. "They will really sell! Once a few LightRaiders begin to live by these rules, they will feel and act superior. This will cause intimidation and fear in the rest, who will rush to you to buy a book for themselves. They will want to learn the rules and be safe from criticism."

The greedo then rushes back to his bag and pulls out another item. It is a small, miniature wishing well. "Wishing for good things by placing a coin in the well will bring good things to pass," he says. "It will not answer bad requests. Which of these two things would you like to sell to your LightRaider friends?"

I begin to think about his offer. But my head is kind of fuzzy. I feel a little enchanted by what the greedo is saying. It might be good to have rules set down in stone for the TwiceBorn, I think to myself. The Sacred Scrolls do not answer all questions that arise. It would be helpful to take these books back to the Liberated Land. And I could also make a lot of money....but then with the wishing wells, we TwiceBorn could do so much more good!

Then the greedo asks again his question, "Which of these two things do you want to take back to your LightRaider friends?"

[If you decide to take the Rules for LightRaider Living

books back to the Liberated Land, go to Sect. 21]

[If you decide to take the miniature wishing wells, go to Sect. 29]

[If you decide to take neither, go to Sect. 17]

[Sect. 27] Near the center of this orchard is yet another small pond, though its lavender surroundings give it a much different appearance than the pool in the Love Orchard. Again the fresh water beckons, and I approach to drink. I pause to sense for evil - of course, there is none. So I am surprised a moment later to see a reflection of another place appearing on the pool's surface - an evil place where lust lurks in ever-present shadow.

An Inner Voice - not my own - gently instructs, "Go and test your new strength. You are needed."

I step forward into the pond - though, recalling my adventure in the last pool, it takes a great deal of courage supplied by the Spirit of Might. (I now realize He is near me all the time. Actually, He is right inside me, as taught in my classes in the Liberated Land.) As I enter the waters, I look down at the pond's evil scene.

All of a sudden the pond disappears, and, looking up, I find that I am standing right in the midst of the evil place. It appears to be a marketplace of some sort.

Hideous dark creatures are operating stalls and selling all sorts of unnecessary items. They hawk their wares with silver tongues and lying promises. Dragon slaves are milling about, setting their hearts on much more than they need, much more than is good for them.

I try to remember all that I can about these dark creatures who are the market's entrepreneurs. They are called greedoes. This is what I remember about them and the evil effects of their sin specialty:

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[After writing what you remember about greedoes, go to Sect. 16]

[Sect. 28] I think that neither of these choices is what the OverLord would want. The Sacred Scrolls warn against both of them.

As for the books spelling out rules for LightRaider behavior, the OverLord said in the Sacred Scrolls that the law is clear. In fact, Revelation 22:18 and 19 warn specifically against adding to or subtracting from the scrolls. The OverLord also said, "For I tell you that unless your righteousness surpasses that of the Pharisees and the teachers of the law, you will certainly not enter the kingdom of heaven." On another occasion, He said, "Be on your guard against the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees.

Regarding the wishing wells, the Sacred Scrolls warn to avoid magic. But even more important is the responsibility to go to the Most High in the OverLord's Name for the things that we want. Wishing is not bad, but it should be converted to prayer. For the Sacred Scrolls say:

Every good and perfect gift is from above,

coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights,

who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

[If you did not take either books or small wishing wells back to the Liberated Land,

Go to Sect. 25]

[Otherwise, go to Sect. 30]

[Sect. 29] I purchase as many miniature wishing wells as I can carry and head for the Hollow Tree to return to the Liberated Land. However, when I walk into it, nothing happens. In fact, some playing children push me out the other side.

What is wrong?

(Write what you think is wrong.)

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[Go to Sect. 32]

[Sect. 30] Suddenly, I come to my senses. I had fallen under the greedo's Unearned Wealth Sin Enchantment, and had almost betrayed my OverLord. Yet, He was merciful and delivered me from the dark creature's sin enchantment. The strength of Faithfulness in me was not yet strong enough to resist the greedo's offer. If I had done what he suggested, I would be serving money rather than my Master.

I take the evil items back to the greedo. Of course, he will not refund my money. I walk off, confessing my wrong to the invisible but ever-present OverLord.

[Go to Sect. 20]

[Sect. 31] I walk into the Hollow Tree and disappear, but not before I see the surprised look of the greedoes and glimpse them beginning to rush towards the tree. They think they can follow me.

[Go to Sect. 22]

[Sect. 32] I ponder the situation, and after a while a verse from the Sacred Scrolls comes into my thoughts. It is James 4:2c:

You do not have, because you do not ask God.

(Write down your interpretation of this verse and how it applies to the greedo’s wares.)

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[Go to Sect. 30]

[Sect. 33] Exiting the Faithfulness Orchard through a breach in the hedge, I am taken aback by the immense tranquility of the vast orchard before me. Towering trees with broad spreading branches are spaced generously over a rolling carpet of bright green clover. Patches of splendid yellow flowers dot the sunlit areas between the trees.

Again the trees bear fruit that I do not recognize. High up among the stretching branches are clusters of round, yellow balls, not unlike grapes, but thrice as large and perfectly round. They grow three to a cluster. Deciding to wait for a cluster to drop into my eager hands, I lie down on the clover carpet; the sun massages my body and soon I am asleep.

My nap is broken by a chill. I open my eyes to evening sky. It is so calm in this orchard that I have taken quite a long nap. I have been in the Valley of Power a full day. I did not expect to be here so long. I wonder what to do. Should I retrace my steps, leaving the Valley, to return tomorrow?

At that very moment a cluster of yellow fruit falls at my feet. Well, I guess I'm staying! Whatever they are, they look like kumquats, a fruit I have once eaten. The skin is really smooth but breaks easily when I bite into it. Juice spills over my chin. I eat several and eventually feel nourished. After I walk among the trees to exercise my stiffened legs, I again lie down to sleep under the bright stars of EdenAgain. I am not chilly, for the fruit sent a warming sensation through my body, a warmth not unlike being close to and hugged by someone. Overwhelmed by comfort, the passage from wakefulness to sleep is not clearly defined.

[Go to Sect. 53]

[Sect. 34] I pick up the scroll and robe, shove them into my backpack, and run out into the night in the direction of the deep chasm, filled with concern that I might be too late. I cannot believe I'm not trembling! Into my mind comes a deep truth:

And the peace of God, which

transcends all understanding, will

guard your hearts and your minds in

Christ Jesus.

Phillipians 4:7

(What does this truth teach about the unusual fruit of Peace that is in me, a gift from the

Spirit of Might that allows me to run calmly toward what might be my death?)

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[After writing your answer, go to Sect. 44]

[Sect. 35] Yes, I step right into the brook's broad pool, now knowing that such action will take me into the dangerous Dragon Lands - and could cost me my life. It will be no dream this time. But I also know that my OverLord has work for me to do.

I am beginning to rather enjoy the rush of wet water all about me and the exhiliration of my swift descent. Within a few moments I am somewhere in the Dragon Lands. It is the middle of night. I light a candle to overcome the pitch darkness.

I am standing inside a gigantic redwood tree. The hollow interior of this tree is immense. Inscribed on the inside of the tree's wall are two WordRunes:

Rescuer's WordRune

Jude 22-23

Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save

them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear - hating even

the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.

Nature Power WordRune

Psalm 104:4

He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants.

Then something stirs my hair. I look up to see vampire bats everywhere. They hang upside down and all over the low ceiling of the hollow tree. But I am not in danger. They have just eaten, and are licking the blood off their fur.

"Welcome, future LightRaider."

Who is talking to me? Looking around, I see no one!

"It is good to see that you are still peaceful, even in our presence."

One of the bats is talking to me! It is a talking creature - empowered by the OverLord. He - or she - continues. "You are near the Sacrificial Table of the Crimson Castle," remarks the winged mammal, "home of many sorcerers, witches and warlocks, all dragon slaves who worship the Great Red Dragon. It is one of the most dangerous places in all the Dragon Lands. It is a dreadful place, where more humans are always needed to be sacrifices on their blood-stained altar. Recently they have captured a young homeless boy who unwittingly wandered onto their grounds. They have taken him into the castle and imprisoned him in a cage, which is heavily guarded by vicious goblins. The OverLord has dispatched a pack of Wolves to aid you in rescuing the boy. You will meet them at the appropriate time."

"By the OverLord's command, some beavers have felled a tree that now lies across a narrow fire-chasm not far from here, in that direction." The bat points his long leathery wing to the east. "Only a LightRaider with the Peace of the Spirit of Might would even think about attempting to cross the tree-bridge. Absolute calm and confidence are needed to cross the fiery chasm safely. Together, you and the Wolves should be able to rescue the boy and escape over the tree-bridge."

What is your plan to carry out this daring rescue? Remember, you have the OverLord's Peace to carry out His perfect will.

(So, what do you think? Write it down your plan here, future LightRaider.)

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[Go to Sect. 48]

[Sect. 36] A little further down the fissure I hear something crashing. I run toward the sound and see that another tree has just fallen across the chasm. Beavers scamper out onto it to trim and level a walkway. I run over to the tree and am almost blown into the fiery death by a blast of cold wind from behind me.

A beaver on the log struggles against the gale to return to my side. At once she says, "Remember the WordRune! This log is being readied for your return. Go back to the other tree-bridge and say the WordRune! Hurry!"

(Say the appropriate WordRune from the Hollow Tree. Logic will tell you which one it is. REMEMBER, You must say it from memory. Look back to Section 35 if you can't think of them.)

[After saying the WordRune, go to Sect. 47]

[Sect. 37] As I realize that it is the OverLord of Many Names who stands there holding me in His protective embrace, I feel a great calm come over me. Even though the frightening footsteps are much nearer now, I am no longer shaking. I have a sense of calm and confidence growing inside because of the OverLord's hugging presence.

I am tempted to close my eyes as the ugly creatures begin to pass by me in the shadows. But I feel composed enough to look upon the passing nightmare. There is a long line of them. So far, they do not see me. These dark creatures are carrying scimitars - long curved swords, each as sharp as a razor. Their yellow, almond-shaped eyes dart back and forth, warily watching each other and their surroundings. In the dim light, I can just make out their pointed ears.

My mind drifts back to my training at the LightRaider Academy, and I think to myself, What are these hideous, dangerous creatures?

(What is it that you see? Search your LightRaider Handbook in the section on Dark Creatures and write down what they are.)

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[Go to Sect. 42]

[Sect. 38] I regain my composure by reassuring myself that the OverLord of Many Names is present with me as in the Peace Orchard dreams. I think of other promises and passages from the Sacred Scrolls.

(What do you remember about the dream you just had? The one about the OverLord standing next to you and the mound orc attacking you with his scimitar? What was the OverLord telling you about Peace in that dream message?)

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Then, against the darkness, I see it - the fallen tree. I run to it, feeling the searing blast of hot air arising from the deep chasm of no return. Then I stop and stare - the log the beavers have prepared is a mere six inches wide! What's more, the makeshift bridge is burning, having caught fire from the intense heat rising from the inferno below. I know that if I go out on that log, I too will burn! But if I don't hurry, the log will burn through and break. I realize I must cross soon, before the wicked knives spill the boy's blood!

I know that I do not possess the courage to cross the burning bridge! What do I do?

(Write down what you will do.)

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[Once you have written down an action, go to Sect. 47]

[If you have no idea what to do, go to Sect. 36]

[Sect. 39] Not pleased with my answer, and now recognizing me as an infiltrator - and a possible human sacrifice for their rituals - they try to grab me. However, the Peace lies very strong upon me, and I remark, "In the High name of the OverLord of Many Names, go and forget this meeting." They stop in mid-attack and look at each other, blinking. Then they turn and walk away laughing. One of them elbows the other, saying, "That was a good one!" The notice posted, I now turn my attention to other things.

(What do you do?)

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[Go to Sect. 54]

[Sect. 40] Then I figure out who it is that stands next to me in the dark castle corridor with terrible things coming toward me. It is:

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[Once you have written in the name, go to Sect. 37]

[Sect. 41] Of course, how else could they have gotten in? I quickly join the second group surrounding the cage, and see that a small candle lights the interior. The boy inside is about ten years old, and looks very frightened. As the Wolves gnaw at the ropes with their teeth, I try to think of something comforting to say to the boy.

(What do you say to the boy? Write it here.)

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[Go to Sect. 45]

[Sect. 42] Just as the last mound orc passes, he drops his shield - right at my feet. Looking up, he grins a toothy smile and raises his curved sword. With a sinister laugh and a blast of fetid breath, the begrimed creature delivers his blow. The instant pain awakens me. I am sticky with sweat.

I doze off and on, dreaming the same dream over and over again. Time and again I am held protectively by my Captain, the OverLord of Many Names. And just as often, the same scimitar splits open my head - except in the last nightmare of the night. In that dream I am completely confident, with full knowledge of the One who stands with me. This time, after the sword falls, I find myself in the EverLasting Kingdom at a great banquet. And when I awake I am not sweaty. It is still night in the orchard.

While in the other orchards, each dream gave me a new Character Strength; and so I think about the new power that I now have for battle.

(Write down what new power you have gained from the night's dreaming.)

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[Once you have written down your decision, go to Sect. 46]

[Sect. 43] I say the Nature Power WordRune - and to my astonishment, I burst into flames! And yet I do not feel pain, nor am I burning up. Actually, I am fire.

(What do you do now? Decide what you would do and write it down.)

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[Go to Sect. 52]

[Sect. 44] Finally I reach it - the precipice of hell. A fissure opens from the bowels of the earth and falls hundreds of feet, widening as it descends. Because of the dark of night, I see fire at the bottom of the deep shaft. Intense heat rises out of the depths.

I begin to doubt the Peace. I must regain my composure. I pray. Then I try to reassure myself with some thoughts to steady my peace. These thoughts come to my mind with the help of the Spirit of Might and my knowledge of the Sacred Scrolls:

(What do you tell yourself? Research verses about 'Peace' in your bible's concordance, and write the references down here.)

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[Go to Sect. 38]

[Sect. 45] I share the words of comfort, and also tell the boy to go with the wolves. I tell him I will be his decoy, to ensure the dragon worshippers will not catch him again.

Then suddenly, as the wolves chew through the ropes and open the door, the candle falls into the hay on the cage floor. The cage is booby-trapped! Instantly, flames burst forth and surround the boy. The startled wolves jump back, too afraid to do anything.

There is no time for me to do anything but say the Rescuer's WordRune.

[Go ahead. Don't just stand there. Say it quickly! Then go to Sect. 56]

[Sect. 46] Yes, it is Peace that has grown in me as I have yielded to the Spirit of Might in His Valley of Power. Surrendering my fears, I can allow Him fill me with Peace whenever I wish. Then I will be able to have calm confidence that He is near me. I now have the power to let Him take care of me and provide calmness, confidence and competence for whatever the OverLord wants me to do.

As I am thinking this, I notice a small brook that runs through this Peace orchard. Stars twinkle in a shallow pool not far from me. By now, I know what to do. Experiencing a tranquil assurance I've never known before now, I do what I must.

(What is it you do? Write it down.)

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[Go to Sect. 35]

[Sect. 47] Did you say the Nature Power WordRune?

[If so, go to Sect. 43]

[If not, say it perfectly, from memory, then go to Sect. 43]

[Sect. 48] I am getting tired of looking at an upside-down bat, especially since his every word seems to add danger to my assignment. Nevertheless, he continues. "Also, the OverLord wants you to post both an invitation and a warning in the castle's central courtyard. The sorcerers, witches and warlocks are dragon slave victims, deceived by the lies of the Great Red Dragon. The OverLord wants them to know of His great love for them. He is ready to receive them if they will but switch their allegiance to Him. But He also wants to warn them of His responsibility to judge. The scroll you post will offer salvation through the Great Rescue, but it will also warn of the Everlasting Lake of Fire. The scroll and a black robe for disguise are over there in the far corner of this hollow tree. There is also a list of warnings from the Sacred Scrolls for you to study first. This is a very dangerous assignment. May the Peace be with you.

(Look up in your own copy of the Sacred Scrolls - the Bible - the following verses:)

Leviticus 19:26, 31 Leviticus 20:6

Deuteronomy 18: 9-13 1 Chronicles 10:13-14

2 Chronicles 33:6 Zechariah 10:2

Acts 19:19 Revelation 21:8

(What do these verses teach about the activities that go on inside

the Crimson Castle to which you are headed?)

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[Go to Sect. 34]

[Sect. 49] I run to intercept the party of evildoers! I will be the decoy, and draw the attention of the witches away from the boy. This is the will of the OverLord, who holds me in His presence always.

As I run toward those who could take my life, I feel a familiar sensation - like I'm being hugged. It feels just like it did in the dream. I am not alone!

So together we run toward the armed goblin guards, the invisible OverLord and I. Then, impulsively, I yell, "Praise the OverLord!"

They see me! I change direction and look back to see if they are following me. They are. In the darkness, they cannot tell if I am the boy or the infiltrator. Who cares? As long as I draw them away from the lad....and clearly I am doing so, for arrows begin to fall around me.

As I reach the gatehouse, I see that three wolves have stayed back to pin the guard until I have escaped. The boy is far ahead and out of sight. The goblins continue to chase me instead.

Once I am across the drawbridge, the wolves who were holding the guards rush past me to catch up with their companions and the boy. I dodge the other way, the goblins right at my heels.

I begin to see the glow of the hellish fissure. As I run, I repeat the Nature Power WordRune.

[Do it. Say the Nature Power WordRune perfectly. Then go to Sect. 55]

[Sect. 50] I must get to the boy! Others reading the OverLord's message of warning and invitation will soon sound the alarm. I tear off my black robe disguise and run to the rear of the barracks, where I discover five rough-hewn wooden cages crudely tied together with rope. But the area is swarming with wolves! Some of the wolves have pinned the goblin guards to the floor, while others are gnawing at the ropes. I realize they are the wolves the bat told me about and they are here to help me. Then I wonder, How did the wolves get into the castle undetected?

(Creative Writing Time! Come up with an inventive reason for how the

OverLord's wolves entered the castle without being discovered, and write it below.)

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[After you have helped the story, go to Sect. 41]

[Sect. 51] While I am traveling back the way I came, I see wolves running toward the barracks. I forgot! I must get the boy!

[Go to Sect. 50]

[Sect. 52] I know will not perish now that I am covered by the OverLord's flame. Normal fire cannot consume spiritual fire. Reinvigorated by the Peace, I run confidently across the narrow log. Once on the other side, the flames go out and I am back to my normal self. I praise the OverLord for providing for my every need!

Running away from the fissure, I reach a path leading left and right. From its condition, it appears to be seldom traveled. Uncertain which way to go, I listen intently. I hear a faint sound to the right, the distant sound of many voices, but I am unable to determine what they are saying. I decide to investigate.

I do not need to travel far when I see it - the wicked spires of the Crimson Castle. I don my black robe, the disguise that will help me save the boy and post the message.

Peering quietly but unafraid from some bushes, I survey the nefarious Crimson Castle. Fires flicker at various spots around its perimeter, making it loom larger in the darkness than it actually is. Blasphemous singing rides the air to my disgusted ears. My Hatred of Evil wells up within me as I hear the Evil One worshipped.

A small moat surrounds this evil place. Who knows what terrors lurk below its calm surface? A narrow wooden drawbridge leads to the main door. I cross the drawbridge with bold determination, pulling my cloak tight around me. A sleepy guard nods my way, allowing me to enter the castle. As I pass under the portcullis, I look up and spot dried blood on many of the large, sharp spikes which form the bottom of the grating.

Upon entering the outer courtyard of the Crimson Castle, I stop to look around. There to the left are the barracks, sitting below the parapet and towers looming above. The armory is right next to the sleeping quarters. And there in the middle of all, of course, is the open courtyard.

A few people are wandering about the castle aimlessly. They move slowly, as though drugged. To blend in, I take my time getting to my first destination. As I meander, I overhear many conversations. One gives me a flash of fear, though is quickly overturned by the Spirit of Might and His Peace. I hear a lowered voice say, "We are desperately in need of more humans to sacrifice on the Blood Altar." Briefly I wonder if the Peace Orchard dreams will prove true after all, and I will die.

"The boy is not enough. All the rest of the cages in the back of the barracks are empty!" a second voice agrees.

Soon I reach the central courtyard, where a few dark figures mingle around tall columns carved with blasphemous figures [symbols]. In the center of the columns is an altar, in the middle of which stands a statue of a terrifying red dragon. Most frightening is the evil statue's sleek beauty. Fire surrounds the idol, worshipful fires to the Great Red Dragon, our archenemy. I draw close and spit upon the statue; at the moment, it is the best way I can think to oppose this sacrilege. The evil lizard has vowed to rob the Glorious Almighty of His due praise. I belong to the Son of the Almighty, the OverLord of Many Names, and I am angered beyond description at the sight of this spiritual profanity.

I pull out the notice that I am to post here in the middle of this great evil. Two messages appear on the parchment:

WARNING AND

INVITATION

All that the Red Dragon has

promised you is a lie.

He is, of all creatures in EdenAgain,

the most to be pitied. He gives you nothing

that is ultimately good. His end is

certain eternal punishment.

But there is still time to turn away

from the disaster you will face along with

him in the ever-burning Lake of

Sulfur. My Love is still available

to you now, because you are on this side of

the Everlasting Darkness toward

which you are headed.

Come to me, all you who are weary

and burdened, and I will give you

rest. Take my yoke upon you and

learn from me, for I am gentle, and

humble in heart, and you will find

rest for your souls. For my yoke is

easy and my burden is light.

From my Heart to yours,

The OverLord of

Many Names

Just as I am posting the OverLord's message, two dragon worshippers approach and begin reading the announcement by the flickering light of the ceremonial fires. From the pulsating medallions they wear, I take them to be sorcerers.

"What garbage is this? How dare you desecrate the holiness of this spot?" one says to me. The fires behind me conceal my face in shadow, and they cannot see that I am someone they do not know. Within me, The Peace remains unshaken. I answer their challenge.

(What would you say in this situation? Remember that you are not afraid, because you have been given the power of Peace from the Spirit of Might. What do you say to them?)

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[After you have answered the sorcerers, go to Sect. 39]

[Sect. 53]

I am tiptoeing down a dimly-lit castle corridor. Torches cast a flickering, dark yellow half-light, creating eerie shadows on the uneven stone walls. Footsteps!

My heart races as fear sweeps over me. What is coming towards me? It sounds like many feet shuffling along dingy hallways. Then I hear heavy breathing.

I shove myself upright against a door, its frame hiding my flattened body from the searching fingers of torchlight. Afraid to risk moving my head, I stretch my eyes to the right as far as they will go to see what is approaching.

Instead, what I see is someone standing next to me! In the dim light, it only looks like a gray, hazy form. Involuntarily, I turn my head to the right -- and the person disappears! It seems I can only see him out of the corner of my eyes. I cannot see his features, but I am sure whoever this is wants my safety. He is protectively hugging me.

I glance over again to my right. This time, the person turns his face towards me and smiles. A twinkle in his eye brings some words to mind:

"And surely I will be with you always..."

I wonder where it is I have heard those words before. Then I remember -- they are words from the Sacred Scrolls. But who spoke those words, I wonder?

(You will need to find the reference to this verse very quickly! In such frightening moments, you must be very familiar with the promises of the Sacred Scrolls. Find the reference and write it down.)

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[Then go to Sect. 40]

[Sect. 54]

[If you decide to go rescue the boy, go to Sect. 50]

[If you do not decide to go rescue the boy, why not? Go to Sect. 51]

[Sect. 55]

Once again, I am aflame with the power of the OverLord!

The grass at my heels catches fire. Avoiding the spreading flames, the goblins detour around me, running hard to pass me by. There ahead is the second log bridge. From here, I can see that the beavers have just finished trimming it. Against my face I feel the first currents of the OverLord's cool breeze that has protected them as they worked. Then, just as the last beaver jumps off the far end of the log, the wind stops. I feel the hot blast from the inferno below. The goblins pause ahead of me though still some distance from the edge of the precipice. They are trying to block my route to the bridge.

I have no choice other than to run past the goblins and across the log. As I reach the log, I hear an indignant cry from the goblins as they begin to chase me again. I cross the log as fast as I am able. I turn back just in time to see some of the goblins falling off the log and into the flames, others bursting into flames before they can reach the near side, and still others who hesitate too close to the edge, only to be driven back by the heat.

The protecting flames fade away, but in its place, an exulting flame of praise and gratitude burns within me. Hooray! I have served the OverLord well. He provided the Peace, I the obedience.

In the distance I see a glowing tree. As I approach, I see the boy and the wolves are gathered around it. They crossed the chasm on a third log some distance away. We greet one another and catch our breath. After talking at length with the boy, he accepts the OverLord as his Savior and Lord. We enter the Hollow Tree together, and once again I find myself in the middle of the Peace Orchard. The rigors of my flight and the minor burns I sustained seem to have been left behind, and I am feeling very good.

[Go to Sect. 57]

[Sect. 56] I say the Rescuer's WordRune, knowing there is no time to say the Nature Power WordRune for my own safety.

The Rescuer's WordRune extinguishes the flames surrounding the boy. I rush in, grab the boy, and toss him over the fire still writhing about the bars of the cage. All the while, flames nip at my clothes and body. And then I am on fire. Quickly, I say the Nature Power WordRune.

(Go ahead and say it - FAST!)

Instantly, the blistering heat seems to vanish. The fire can no longer harm me. I rush out of the growing inferno. However, no sooner do I step out of the conflagration than the protective flames are gone. A few painful burns linger from the moment before I said the Nature Power WordRune, but they are a small price to pay. The boy is safe and the OverLord's will is being served. That is all that matters.

The whole area is now the center of attention as the rest of the cages, as well as the barracks, catch fire. A large black wolf approaches me. Just as I had expected, he speaks to me. "May the grace, the unmerited favor, of the OverLord of us both guide you to safety. You will surely make a faithful LightRaider! The boy is free now and the pack must guard his escape and guide him to safety. Peace!"

The band of wolves lope off with the boy running in the middle of them. Then I see an aroused group of goblin guards following a small cluster of witches and warlocks. I realize with dismay that if they hold to their course, they will encounter the wolves and the boy. They see the barracks are on fire, but they are intent on tracking down the boy for their own awful sacrifice.

It is decision time again!

(What do you do now? Write it out.)

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[Go to Sect. 49]

[Sect. 57] A faint trail leaves the Peace Orchard. It is midmorning. The boy is no longer with me; I assume that the OverLord took him to one of the Passage Lakes elsewhere in the Liberated Land, the usual destination when one passes through a Hollow Tree. The OverLord must have more to teach me here in the orchard. I am still eagerly expectant! Without further hesitation, I follow the path.

I follow a small creek that trickles near my feet. Its quiet gurgling reminds me of the great Peace I have within my soul from the Spirit of Might. The trail winds down around huge boulders and through dense underbrush. Suddenly, as I travel around one of the rocky embankments, I enter a vineyard. Bushes hanging with succulent fruit are everywhere. Choosing one, I approach to inspect my breakfast.

The fruit bushes are without thorns. I'm glad for that. The berries are deep purple, almost black, but they do not resemble the blackberries we have back in the Liberated Lands. Instead, each berry is made up of three marble-sized round lobes, joined in a triangle.

Since I am very hungry, I eat many. I am quite thankful for the OverLord's great care for me to provide food at the proper time. My mind remembers a verse from the Sacred Scrolls I learned at LightRaider Academy.

Full Contentment WordRune

1 Timothy 6:6-8

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world,

and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing,

we will be content with that.

(What action would you guess this WordRune performs?)

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[Go to Sect. 89]

[Sect. 58] I know what it is! We did not spend much time on it at the Academy, but I remember that we all snickered when we were told about fluster beasts. The professor admonished us to take it more seriously, because these dark creatures spread a particularly evil enchantment.

(Do you know what that enchantment is? What is it called and what does it do?)

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[Go to Sect. 71]

[Sect. 59] As I am talking to the lady, I see one of the children steal something that belongs to another. My thoughts shock me: Don't pay any attention to that. It will spoil the loveliness of this situation. I notice that the woman also saw the infraction and, like me, is paying no attention to the plight of her children. Instead, she hurriedly pours herself another cup of tea. Something inside of me says that something is wrong!

(Something is wrong! Know what it is?)

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[Go to Sect. 82]

[Sect. 60] In order to get to Sunchusis Cove, I must say the Right Heart - Right Desires WordRune, the one I saw written on the hawk's egg. It is clearly not my will but the OverLord's that will carry me in that dangerous direction.

(Go ahead and say the Right Heart - Right Desires WordRune. Then write it out here.

You might want to memorize it, in case you need to use it again.)

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[Go to Sect. 86]

[Sect. 61] I ask the Rock of Ages for protection. I request that He guard me from whatever darkness is coming down that path. Then I try to figure out what sort of creature may be coming my way.

(Do you know what's coming your way? There have been two clues that would give it away. Write down what you think is coming towards you.)

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[Go to Sect. 92]

[Sect. 62] I explain that I am needed by the OverLord elsewhere, and regrettably I must leave her lovely home. She looks sad as we walk to the front gate to say our final goodbyes. But her sadness is lifted when a small sparrow alights on her shoulder, pleasantly startling her, and whispers in her ear, "You will not be alone from the OverLord's followers. In the absence of the TwiceBorn, I will visit you often." (From that time on, the lady was known to all of Pleasanton as the "Lady of the Sparrow".)

I wave one last time as I disappear from her sight. I now will make my move, and carry out my plan to rescue the jailed SaltWarriors.

(You made the plan - now you must write how its execution went.

Go ahead and stretch you literary wings.)

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[Go to Sect. 88]

[Sect. 63] I stretch out after my nap and fruitful dream. I know from past experience here in the Valley of Power that now is the time for a real, life-threatening adventure that will test my new Self-Control strength. And I know how that adventure begins.

(What do you do next? Hint: what do you look for?)

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[Go to Sect. 94]

[Sect. 64] Now I'm able to turn my attention back to the glowing egg. Picking it up and looking very closely, a message begins to write itself across the surface. It reads:

Dear LightRaider:

This is an egg of a talking hawk. Please be very careful with it. Gently replace it when I am through speaking with you.

It is very important to keep foremost in your mind your calling to serve me and whatever specific task I have set before you. Follow me. Do not follow your own desires. Instead, follow me and the desires that I place in you.

Remember the Right Heart - Right Desires WordRune: "Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart." That is from the Sacred Scrolls - Psalm 37:4 - and it gives power over things that entice you. Allow only me to draw you to things.

This day, you will be in great danger. That is my will for you today. I love the dragon slaves of this world. Therefore, I send my LightRaiders on dangerous missions of love.

You will come to three forks in this trail. Take always the trail that is consistent with my assignment for you today. Think not of yesterday's assignment, nor of tomorrow's.

The egg stops glowing; there is no more message. I gently replace the egg in the nest and climb down out of the tree.

[Go to Sect. 93]

[Sect. 65] As we talk, it is obvious that this very nice lady has never considered that it might not be wise to depend on drugs for her happiness, and the happiness of her family. How sad is the way of the Once Born.

I explain to the woman that real life must be faced; that life has many problems, and trying to hide from them is fruitless; and that problems do not go away just because we are unaware of them. I tell her that her children are addicted to happiness, and that one of them just took what belonged to another because he took his own happiness too seriously. He was so addicted to pleasure that he felt he had to have what belonged to another.

She doesn't hear me. She starts singing softly again, and turns to clear the table. I instinctively help her take away the dishes, because I am a servant of the OverLord. She looks at me in surprise, then goes on to sing. I wonder how I am going to get through to her.

(Any ideas? Write them down.)

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[Go to Sect. 95]

[Sect. 66] The path to Loveville gets wider and wider until it is a fair-sized road. Many tributary trails join it from either side. Eventually, the road makes a sharp right turn...right into a berry patch. The road has completely disappeared! I recognize this place - it's where I began my adventure today. I find myself repeating events that have already taken place.

[Go to Sect. 102]

[Sect. 67] Sounds coming from the left and from behind tell us that orcs and goblins have rediscovered our trail. We do not break from prayer, but ask for help.

(What do you ask for?)

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[Go to Sect. 84]

[Sect. 68] I continue toward Sunchusis Cove and the horrible sea dragons. A heavy mist rolls in from the nearby sea. Gloomy is too bright a word for what the forest has become. The path ahead is difficult to see.

I barely see the signs before walking off the trail at a junction of two paths. The path that forks to the left goes to Sunchusis Cove. The way to the right goes to the Sunshine Coast. Signs for the Sunshine Coast resorts (once I am able to decipher them in the dismal dark) beckon the traveler away from the foul weather and danger of Sunchusis Cove.

"Why be a sacrifice when you can surf instead?"

Then by a stray, dingy gleam from the obscured sun, I catch the glimmer of sharpened spears down the path to the cove.

[If you take the path to the Sunshine Coast, go to Sect. 96]

[If you draw your battle-axe and proceed to Sunchusis Cove - and possible death -

Go to Sect. 78]

[Sect. 69] I awake to the wonderful smells of a country breakfast. The family's children can be heard laughing and playing outside, and the wife is softly singing as she works. The man I met last evening is nowhere to be seen; he has gone off to work for the local miller, as I am informed by the gracious mistress of this most remarkable house.

I am shortly called to breakfast. As we sit down to eat, there is no expression of recognition that all this happiness comes from the blessings of the Almighty One and His OverLord of Many Names. Instead, there is a great deal of talk....about tea! The whole breakfast looks and smells delicious, but the family's emphasis is on the tea!

Even as I puzzle this out, I am poured a cup of the most wonderful-smelling tea I have ever experienced (it is the same we drank by the fireplace last night). The hostess raises her teacup to propose a toast. We all raise ours in answer (LightRaiders can freely accept customs that differ from their own, as long as they do not run counter to the words of the Sacred Scrolls). She says, "To our guest, who dropped out of nowhere! And may the day's happiness go on forever!"

We drink, with complimentary comments from all about the quality of the tea. Then we devour the pancakes, eggs, bacon, potatoes and fruit. Just as I am about to say my great thanks and take my leave of this wonderful house, I become aware of a growing desire to stay! I feel no cares here, no worries or troubles. Isn't this worth having?

(What is your response to all that has gone on here in this pleasant home?)

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(What do you think of the hostess's toast to you?)

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[Go to Sect. 91]

[Sect. 70] I lead straight ahead - and then stop us just in time to avoid tumbling over a deep cliff! (Whew! That was close!)

However, looking behind us, we find another kind of danger and death closing fast. Four orcs and eight goblins have slowed down to a walk, stalking us, smiling from ear to ugly ear because they know they have us trapped. We ready our weapons for a final stand.

But then, from out of nowhere pounce three more mountain lions, running past us! This time, we follow them!

[Go to Sect. 105]

[Sect. 71] I remember that a spell of confusion, the Double-Minded sin enchantment, is spread by listening to the fluster beast's own confused talk. In fact, this dark creature is arguing with itself right below me.

(Make up an argument that the fluster beast is having between its two heads. This is not required for the story; just do it for fun.)

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Knowing that I do not want to listen to the fluster beast's argument too closely or I might become enchanted, I focus on keeping hidden and repeat some WordRunes over and over in my head. Soon, the monster is gone and out of sight.

(What do you do now?)

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[Go to Sect. 100]

[Sect. 72] "The townspeople did not mind the three TwiceBorn who lived among them," the prairie dog continues. "In fact, a great many of the town's residents were just beginning to get interested in hearing about the Fantastic Invitation. But all the excited murmuring was overheard by a selfoe, and unfortunately it informed the dragon patrol.

"The jail is guarded by ferocious goblins. But your sword looks like it can spoil their victory. We have a burrow that comes up inside the jail. Tell us your plan, and we will take your instructions to the SaltWarriors."

(Write out your strategy -- decide how you will free the captive SaltWarriors.

That's right - you have got to figure out how to get them out, and then

write it down here. It's time to show some courage!)

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[Once you have your plan, go to Sect. 87]

[Sect. 73] As I recite each verse, a new awareness awakens within her, until finally...Praise to the Great One, the Holy One, the Almighty! My hostess accepts the Great Love and completely trusts in the OverLord of Many Names for her deliverance from the Forever Death. She has made the Great Escape. She will now avoid the eternal separation, arising from sin's contamination, from the Holy One and all that is good. She is a dragon slave no more; she is now TwiceBorn!

The woman asks to take my leave. I excuse her, and she immediately goes to correct her child who had stolen his brother's possession. I have a moment to consider what to do next.

The lady returns. I fear this new TwiceBorn is too young in the faith to completely trust her loyalties, so I do not tell her of my plan to rescue the SaltWarriors. I do tell her that there is much she will need to learn about her New Life in the OverLord, and that she should wait patiently for the OverLord of Many Names to supply her with that information. I say, "There are animals that can talk, you know! Be prepared for their instruction. And," I add, "your whole family needs to hear the Truth you have heard today!"

[Go to Sect. 62]

[Sect. 74] I know that my purpose for all life is to serve and glorify The High One and the OverLord of Many Names. That is my purpose for being on this path. That is my purpose for everything!

But of my specific assignment, my goal, I know nothing. Therefore, right here and out loud, I ask the OverLord. Because He is everywhere at the same time (that is called omnipresence), I can talk to Him whenever I want.

(What do you actually ask the OverLord? How do you say it?)

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[Go to Sect. 97]

[Sect. 75] I emerge in the Self-Control berry patch. I do not know the final destination of the three SaltWarriors, but I trust the OverLord has safely brought them, too, to the Liberated Lands.

I've tested my new strength from the Spirit of Might. My new Self-Control kept me on track in my work for the great OverLord of Many Names. As I rest in the fresh grass I wonder what lessons and adventures the OverLord will guide me through next. I pray that I will be both faithful and fruitful in His work.

The End

[Sect. 76] It is Self-Control that I have gained in my dream, where I kept myself in check and continued toward Sunchusis Cove. With the help of the Spirit of Might I have strength over myself. I have been given supernatural power to keep going toward the goal set before me by the OverLord of Many Names.

(How good are you in real life in moving consistently

toward the things that God wants you to do?)

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(Look up in your own copy of the Sacred Scrolls - the Bible - the following verses:)

1 Samuel 26:1-20 Matthew 4:1-11

Matthew 26:62-68 Titus 2:1-8

(What do these verses teach about Self-Control?)

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[Go to Sect. 63]

[Sect. 77] For a moment my hostess looks confused. Then her eyes clear a little.

(What is it you want to do now that you have the woman's attention?

What is her biggest need? What does she need more than happiness?)

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[Go to Sect. 90]

[Sect. 78] With the words of the Right Heart - Right Desires WordRune on my lips once again, I turn toward Sunchusis Cove. A stray waft of putrid stench invades my nostrils - an odor I recognize instantly. Mound orcs! Hefting my axe for battle, I make myself ready to obey the OverLord, even to my own destruction.

No sooner does my foot touch the path than I am immediately surrounded by orcs, their dirty, contaminated, blood-stained spears aimed at me. I charge them, battle axe swinging...

[Go to Sect. 99]

[Sect. 79] Just as I am about to inspect the glowing egg, I hear ugly, angry voices arguing below, heading toward me on the path. Whatever horror approaches me, it travels in the same direction I was going.

I hold my breath, hugging the tree for concealment. This seems an appropriate time to ask the OverLord for something.

(What seems like an appropriate thing to ask for right now?)

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[Go to Sect. 61]

[Sect. 80] On the trail to Fun Camp, I come upon some huge boulders. Working my way between two of them, I step around one...right into a berry patch. I recognize this place - it's where I began my adventure today. I find myself repeating events that have already taken place.

[Go to Sect. 102]

[Sect. 81] I decide from the Malachi passage that it is a very great love the Almighty One has given us in His name. The Most High loves those whom He blesses, and we are loved when we could be hated. This is clearly proven by the fact that we are now TwiceBorn instead of dragon slaves.

I see a faint trail that winds down the hillside and decide to follow it. The trail leads up to a small cottage about a mile from the village. It is a pretty place, with lovely flowers bordering a white picket fence. As I pass, a gentleman about my father's age hails me. Being polite, I stop and chat. Soon his whole family joins the conversation by the trail; a very pleasant and comfortable family indeed!

I am invited to take dinner with them, and soon I am enjoying myself so much that I wish I did not have to save the SaltWarriors. Pleasant conversation leads to the telling of the funniest jokes and stories I have ever heard. A fire is lit, another pot of tea is brewed, and the flickering of the flames reflects off the roof of the living room and kitchen. When I doze on the floor, I am gently covered with a soft lambswool blanket.

[Go to Sect. 69]

[Sect. 82] Of course! I conclude that the tea is drugged with some sort of pleasure potion! I may have contracted the False Happiness Sin Enchantment!

I feel myself slipping fast into deeper euphoria. I must do something quick, before it is too late to take action on my own behalf.

(What must you do?)

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[Go to Sect. 103]

[Sect. 83] I climb down the tree. Once on the ground, I find myself confused. It would seem I have contracted the Double-Minded Sin Enchantment from the fluster beast. I stand there, not knowing what to do. Should I go the way I was going, the way the dark creature was traveling? Or should I go back the way I came?

Then, all of a sudden, a leopard stands before me! Now I'm not confused. I turn to run! But in that direction another leopard leaps to the path from a tree overhead. My confusion returns!

Then, all at once, both leopards speak in harmony, each saying the same thing at the same time:

"The Sacred Scrolls speak to your situation when they say,

'Come near to God and he will come near to you.

Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.

Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your

joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.'

"That is James 4:8-10. 1 Peter 1:13 also speaks to you:

'Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled;

set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when

Jesus Christ is revealed.'"

At once, the evil confusion spell is broken, because the leopards were not confused. They were in agreement with one another. My thoughts are clear again. Is that a smile I see on one leopard's face? Now that I am no longer confused by the Double-Minded Enchantment, I can freely decide what to do.

(What should you do? What did you forget when you decided to come down the tree?)

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[Go to Sect. 98]

[Sect. 84] Right! We made our request specific. We asked for a hidden passage through a Hollow Tree.

Then we take off running. I am in the lead. We run for a long time, but the orcs and goblins are catching up with us.

Now they are in sight! Spears and arrows whistle past us. Suddenly, three pumas leap down from high rocks close at hand! The mountain lions race ahead of us - not that we have time to be any more afraid than we already are! The pumas take a sharp turn to the right.

(As leader of the four TwiceBorn, What do you do?

Do you follow the pumas or do you run straight ahead?)

[If you go straight ahead, go to Sect. 70]

[If you follow the mountain lions, go to Sect. 105]

[Sect. 85] My head is clear now. I say to the very nice lady who has been my hostess, "I was drugged!"

"Yes," she replies, "we are all drugged from the wonderful tea. It helps things remain pleasant!"

(What do you say in response?)

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[Go to Sect. 65]

[Sect. 86] Traveling toward Sunchusis Cove, I come again to a fork, this time breaking into three paths. Three signs tell me where each trail leads, and what I am likely to find there.

The trail to the left goes to Fun Camp, a plush vacation resort. The advertisement boasts all sorts of sporting activities, along with fancy dining and sleeping facilities.

The middle path goes to Loveville, where a romance enchantment is said to find each visitor his or her own true love.

The final path, bending to the right, leads to Sunchusis Cove. A sign placed next to the path welcomes all to an annual feast and human sacrifice - scheduled for tomorrow!

(Which of the three paths do you take? Why?)

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[If you take the path to the left - to Fun Camp - go to Sect. 80]

[If you take the center path - to Loveville - go to Sect. 66]

[If you take the right path - to Sunchusis Cove - go to Sect. 101]

[Sect. 87] The prairie dogs give courteous little bows and disappear, scurrying away to fulfill their part in your plan, and tell the SaltWarriors to be ready for your brave rescue!

Then, just as your mind begins to wander away from considering the little creatures so you can go over the details of your plan, another prairie dog pops out of the dirt and speaks. "Oh, we almost forgot to tell you! The three SaltWarriors have been asking the Almighty how He has loved them. They are very discouraged. We were told that the answer lies in Malachi 1:2-3, but we cannot figure it out ourselves. Can you see the Truth of this passage and give the SaltWarriors an answer?

(How about it? Can you see the answer in the passage?

What are you going to tell the disheartened SaltWarriors when you get them out of jail?)

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[Go to Sect. 81]

[Sect. 88] Escaping Pleasanton, the three SaltWarriors and I speedily head for the nearby forest. We shake our pursuers, helped in part by a diversion created by some local deer. We suspect the OverLord was behind it all.

We stop and rest. Once we catch our breath, we decide it is time for thanksgiving. We participate in prayer.

(For what do you give thanks?)

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[Go to Sect. 67]

[Sect. 89] I remember from my studies at the Academy the power of the WordRune is to reduce the attractiveness of a temptation.

(What would be the advantage of such power to reduce a temptation's attractiveness?)

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(What temptations do you face for which you would like to have the power to reduce their attractiveness?)

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Actually, you do have this power! That is, you have such power available to you if you have put your trust in Jesus Christ to pay the deserved penalty for your sin. Christians who believe that Christ died to pay the total penalty for their sin are born again as different creatures than before. They can never be the same again. Belonging to Jesus Christ, they have the Holy Spirit living inside of them. One of the purposes of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit is to be the spiritual power that you need. But the Christian must depend on the Holy Spirit's power.

So, when you face a temptation, pray and ask the Lord to take away the attractiveness of that temptation. God will give you help from the Holy Spirit, who is in you. The Holy Spirit will help you to find God's wisdom about life, as well as the thing that tempts you. The Spirit will lead you into the pages of the Bible, which contain the very words of God. God loves you and me enough to write down His view of our world and the things in it. It is also likely that the Holy Spirit will want you to memorize certain scriptures. Maybe you should memorize 1 Timothy 6:6-8 for real life as well as this DragonRaid solo adventure.

[Go to Sect. 102]

[Sect. 90] I think to myself that I should tell her again why drugs are wrong. But then I remember that she is a dragon slave and will not have the power on her own to understand evil. I must share with her the Fantastic Invitation WordRunes.

Without thinking, she reflexively reaches for her teacup. "No!" I shout, and grab it before she can reach it. She is shocked by my seeming rudeness.

I quickly respond, "I am sorry, m'lady. I have the most wonderful news to tell you, and the tea will take your mind off of what I must say. Trust me, you'll want to hear this." I proceed to explain the Almighty's Great Love for dragon slaves.

[If you are an experienced LightRaider, having played DragonRaid often,

then write out the Fantastic Invitation WordRunes.]

[If you are not a DragonRaid player, then refer to the Fantastic Invitation WordRunes on page 74 of the LightRaider Handbook in your DragonRaid game, and write them out.]

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[Go to Sect. 73]

[Sect. 91] That's odd....my head feels a little light and euphoric. The sense of pleasantness all around me has heightened. I wonder how I could ever leave a place like this. I ask myself, "Isn't peace like this the reason for living? Why not?" Then I struggle with how to answer myself.

(How do you answer your questions?)

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[Go to Sect. 59]

[Sect. 92] Then I see them - or, more correctly, "it"! It is just one animal. But it is not a normal animal. It is definitely a dark creature of some sort.

In the darkness of the forest floor beneath me, I see it has a body like a bear, but two heads. Each head is somewhat like that of an ostrich. What a crazy sight!

(Know what it is now?)

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[Go to Sect. 58]

[Sect. 93] As I travel the path, I can clearly see the ugly footprints of the fluster beast going before me.

I come to the junction of two paths. A sign indicates that in one direction lies Sunchusis Cove. In the other is Gold Valley. The first sign indicates that it goes to the coast - the area where a major seat of power for sea dragons is located. The other sign has a notice attached, which reads:

"NEEDED!

Laborers for the Gold Mines.

4 Xoch a day guaranteed,

Plus Luxurious Lodging and Excellent Meals."

I recognize that 4 Xoch a day is a very great amount of money in the dragon lands. I could buy a lot of nice things!

(Which trail do you take? Why?)

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[If you take the trail to Sunchusis Cove, go to Sect. 60]

[If you take the trail to Gold Valley, go to Sect. 104]

[Sect. 94] Right! Recalling how I have entered the dragon lands from the orchards in the past, I start looking for a pool of water to step into. However, there is merely a small stream trickling nearby; no pool large enough to hold me. Perplexed, I take off my shoes and sit down next to the tiny creek.

After a moment, I decide to dangle my feet in the inviting cool, clear water. In an instant, I am suddenly whisked away from the Valley of Power and find myself on a hill overlooking a small village, just a short distance away. I guess that I am somewhere in the Dragon Lands, perhaps somewhere near the western edge of the Tarlan Plains (if I remember my geography lessons properly).

Surprisingly, my shoes are sitting beside me. As I put them on, prairie dogs pop one by one out of holes all around me. For several seconds, they gaze expectantly at me. I wait to see if one will speak.

Standing up on two legs, a nearby prairie dog addresses me. "We have been watching for you, LightRaider. We are very glad you have come." His voice is much lower than I would expect from such a small body. He seems very somber, and I listen closely as he continues. "We have been asking the OverLord to send someone. Things in the village below us have gotten quite out of hand."

"The village you see down there is called Pleasanton. This is a nice little village that has paid little attention to spiritual things. The OverLord, however, has been sending SaltWarriors to live there for the past few years. Right now, however, they are in the town jail. This is why we have been asking the OverLord to send someone."

I am appalled! I know that SaltWarriors are a special kind of LightRaider, who go on a unique missions in the dragon lands. They actually go to live among the dragon slaves. The risk of capture and even death at the hands of dragons is very high! But they love the OverLord so much that all they want is for others to meet Him, too.

The little friends of the OverLord give me a map of Pleasanton.

[Go to Sect. 72]

[Sect. 95] I decide to try the Full Contentment WordRune. I say it aloud to her.

(Go ahead. Say it aloud, and write it down.)

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[Go to Sect. 77]

[Sect. 96] Traveling the path to the Sunshine Coast allows me to not only escape ambush and probable death, but in a few moments the oily fog lifts! Certain now that this is truly the path that the OverLord has chosen for me, I continue in confidence. I walk just a few sun-soaked minutes before encountering a boulder in the middle of the path. Stepping around it, I can see the path continuing before me, when unexpectedly my foot comes down...right in the middle of a berry patch! The road has completely disappeared! I recognize this place - it's where I began my adventure today. I find myself repeating events that have already taken place.

[Go to Sect. 102]

[Sect. 97] "What am I to do for You here in this dark place, Lord?" is what I decide to ask.

Soon the canopy of leaves above me grows more solid. Now the darkness is almost as deep as night. Ahead of me, I see a light. As I draw closer, I can see that the glow is coming from a nest about 30 feet up in one of the giant trees that line the path. Of course I want to investigate! Unfortunately, there are no branches available on which to climb; the lowest is 10 or 12 feet above my head. I take out my rope.

(So, how would you get up to the nest?)

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Once up here, eye to eye with the nest, I see that one of the four eggs in its woven frame is glowing. I wonder why?

(Why do you think the egg is glowing?)

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[Go to Sect. 79]

[Sect. 98] I go back to the tree and climb it to examine the glowing egg.

[Go to Sect. 64]

[Sect. 99] With a start, I awake! I'm still in the berry patch where I started my dream. Though relived, I want to see who would have won, me or the horde of ugly, smelly orcs....

As soon as my mind clears from the excitement of the dream, I wonder what new power I have gained from this dream training.

(What Fruit of the Spirit do you think you just gained?)

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Below is a list of the nine fruit ...

Fruit of the Spirit

Love is the ability to be selfless and to live for God despite the risk to your own well-being.

Joy is the ability to be content in all situations because God is at work in them.

Peace is the ability to be calm, feel secure, and have confidence because of the Lord's presence

Patience is the ability to keep from sinning under difficult temptations and circumstances, to tolerate evil in mankind and yet not react sinfully.

Kindness is the ability to be useful in service with a friendly, generous, helpful, merciful and compassionate attitude.

Goodness is the ability to do what is right, to act righteously, be holy, and behave in a godly manner; the ability to do those good works assigned by God.

Faithfulness is the ability to be unshakably enduring in loyalty to Jesus Christ as evidenced by trustworthy and dependable behavior.

Gentleness is the ability to know your own frailty and depend on God, thereby responding to others with mercy, grace, forgiveness, humility and tenderness.

Self-Control is the ability to keep on course in the Christian life, to discipline oneself, to work toward righteous goals and accomplish God's assignments.

(Do you wish to change you decision? If so, what power do you now believe you have gained?)

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[Go to Sect. 76]

[Sect. 100]

[If you decide to climb down the tree, go to Sect. 83]

[If you decide to examine the glowing egg, go to Sect. 64]

[Sect. 101]

(To be able to make this choice, you need the Right Heart - Right Desires WordRune again. Did you memorize it? If so, say it perfectly. If not, write it out correctly here - and try to memorize it!)

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[Go to Sect. 68]

[Sect. 102] I am also tired, so I take a nap. As usual, I dream. In my dream, I am traveling a path through very dense forest. The undergrowth is so thick that I couldn't leave the path even if my life depended on it. Enough light filters down through the trees that I am able see to keep from stumbling. The path is well worn, and I can see footprints that look like they were made by a bear.

What my goal on this path might be, I do not know. Nor do I know where it leads, or what I will face. But I do know my purpose.

(What is it? What is your purpose - not only on this path, but in all things?)

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[Go to Sect. 74]

[Sect. 103] I must say the Full Contentment WordRune!

(Say it aloud. You must say it slowly, since you are under the dragons' spell. Then you must write it down here.)

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(If you were not able to say the Full Contentment WordRune correctly without error, you must do so before continuing. Go study the passage 1 Timothy 6:6-8 some more, memorize it, and try again)

[If you were (or once you are) able to say the Full Contentment WordRune correctly, Go to Sect. 85]

[Sect. 104] I take the trail to Gold Valley to make a small fortune before I go on with my service for the OverLord. The path winds around two large boulders...right into a berry patch! I recognize this place - it's where I began my adventure today. I find myself repeating events that have already taken place.

[Go to Sect. 102]

[Sect. 105] The mountain lions zig and zag. We zig and zag right behind them - with the dark creatures mere steps behind us! Then, just ahead of the us, is a HollowTree! Hooray!

The pumas run right past it. We run into it! As we pass through, we can hear the orcs and goblins crash into the tree that, just an instant before, was hollow (dark creatures can't make use of the things of the OverLord). I suppose they are knocked out of the action...!

[Go to Sect. 75]

Answers:

[A]: The International Children's Version reads: "We get our new life from the Spirit. So we should follow the Spirit." The New Berkeley Bible reads "If we live by the Spirit, let us also be directed by the Spirit."

True Christians (not those who trust in their own weak goodness to be reconciled to God) are given new life by the Holy Spirit (the Spirit of Might). [Read John 3:5 & 6:63.] With the new birth from God's own power, a Christian is given a new heart to love God [Rom. 5:5; Gal 4:61], a new mind to be able to think His thoughts [Rom 8:6], and a new will that he might choose as God would [Rom 12:1-2; Eph. 6:6; Phil 2:13; Heb. 13:20-21].

So Christians follow Jesus Christ by the urging of the Holy Spirit. As the Holy Spirit walks behind Jesus in service, so too are we to keep in step, and keep up with, the Holy Spirit. We are to let the Holy Spirit direct the course of our life.

[B]: 2 Corinthians 10:4-5

[C]: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness, Self-control.

WordRunes

Section 8

Too Good to be True WordRune

2 Timothy 2:22

Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart.

Section 15

Gate Opening WordRune

Psalm 118:20

This is the gate of the LORD through which the righteous may enter.

Section 35

Nature Power WordRune

Psalm 104:4

He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants.

Rescuer's WordRune

Jude 22-23

Be merciful to those who doubt; snatch others from the fire and save them; to others show mercy, mixed with fear--hating even the clothing stained by corrupted flesh.

Section 57

Full Contentment WordRune

1 Timothy 6: 6-8

But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

Section 64

Right Heart - Right Choices WordRune

Psalm 37:4

Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.

Fruit of the Spirit