Skalain examines the map; the name of the continent is Alderian.

Sklain noticed something interesting as his eyes traced the intricate lines and markings that divide the continent into two distinct regions. On one half, labeled the Dark Zone, he sees the names of four imposing cities etched upon the map:

Shadowholm,

Nightshade, Queen City

Citadel,

Darksteel Lord City

Obsidian Keep:

On the other half of the map, labeled the Light Zone, Skalain discovers the names of five cities that evoke images of radiant splendor and mystical luminosity:

Luminaire:

Celestia

Radiant Grove:

Seraph's Haven: A city perched atop a serene mountaintop, controlled by Secret Light."

Solstice Reach:

Skalain sits silently by the campfire.

As the flames flicker and dance, he ponders the vast expanse of the continent beyond the labeled cities.

"Most likely, these unmarked places are where humans or other intelligent races who are not mages live, and I also presume that a dark mage in the zones of the Light Zone will be hunted, and likewise for a light mage."

A sense of intrigue fills his mind as he contemplates the possibility of hidden talents and latent magic.

"Who knows how many things are hidden that I don't know anything about?"

Skalain imagines enclaves where the arcane arts are practiced discreetly, away from prying eyes.

"I always thought that mages were private people who liked to delve into their magic studies."

His eyes were fixated on the mesmerizing flames. "Sometimes simple things, such as watching fire, have meaning on their own."

Skalain observes the map once more, his eyes falling upon a town labeled "Red Copper Town. He notes its proximity to the formidable city of Obsidian Keep, nestled within the Dark Zone.

"Red Copper Town, eh? A place that exists in the shadow of Obsidian Keep, a city steeped in dark magic. It seems fitting that this town stands closest to the heart of the Dark Zone."

The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement.

Skalain commented as he laughed at his thoughts.

His mind conjures images of Red Copper Town, envisioning a settlement forged in resilience, its inhabitants navigating the delicate balance between the influences of the nearby city and the surrounding darkness.

"I wonder what stories lie within the streets of Red Copper Town. How do its residents persevere in the face of such proximity to Obsidian Keep? What secrets are hidden behind the town's copper-colored façade?"

Skalain laughs and comments to himself.

"I already got into the role of a dark mage in a fantasy world. I did not expect myself to stay this calm in a situation like this."

"It is really true that humans are good when it comes to adapting to circumstances."

"Red Copper Town shall be my next destination. From there, I will navigate the delicate balance between light and dark, seeking knowledge and forging my path amidst the shadows cast by Obsidian Keep."

Skalain continues his journey, following the path outlined on the map towards Red Copper Town. The forest envelops him, a lush and vibrant realm teeming with life. Rays of sunlight filter through the dense canopy, casting dappled patterns on the forest floor. The air is thick with the earthy scent of moss and the gentle rustling of leaves.

"The smell of nature here is different than on Earth."

Skalain thought.

As Skalain ventures deeper into the woods, he hears some sort of squawking sound and then looks at the right side of himself.

"What are these monsters?"

Skalain exclaimed.

The creatures he saw are rabbit-wolf hybrids; their forms are a twisted amalgamation of predator and prey.

"These creatures are abominations!"

Skalain smirked as he commented. He expected wild animals such as wolves and bears, but not these at all. Who would have thought rabbits and wolves could mix with each other?

"They have sharp fangs and strong legs; it is clear from their red-colored eyes that they are not friendly."

Seconds later, the two mixed rabbit-wolf creatures lunge and start to attack Skalain.

In a seamless display of coordination, three of Skalain's skeletons step forward, interposing themselves between him and the savage creatures. The skeletons move with an eerie grace, their bones clacking softly as they assume defensive stances.

The rabbit-wolf hybrids, agile and vicious, launch themselves at the skeletons.

Skalain watches with a mixture of fun and confidence, his mind focused on the task at hand.

The skeletons, guided by his mental commands, move as a united front.

Their bony appendages clash with the snapping jaws and slashing claws of the creatures.

The rabbit-wolf hybrids strive to sink their teeth into the skeletal forms, while the skeletons, devoid of fear or pain, retaliate with calculated strikes.

"This is better than reading or watching. A real battle between two monsters."

Skalain's heart quickens as he witnesses the unfolding battle. His thoughts dart between assessing the movements of the creatures and strategizing the commands he will issue to his loyal skeletons.

With each passing moment, the relentless onslaught of the rabbit-wolf hybrids begins to wane.

In a final burst of strength, the skeletons overpower the rabbit-wolf hybrids.

Skalain exhales a breath he didn't realize he was holding, relief flooding through his veins. He approaches the fallen creatures cautiously, his gaze assessing the aftermath of the encounter.

"I should take these; despite their power, they are only two times the size of a normal rabbit when it comes to size."

"From the battle, I understand that skeletons are useful. They are not that strong when it comes to creatures with strong agility. The fact that my skeletons have no weapons changes many things too."

"I need more experience and time, as well as knowledge, to explore what I can do."