As Skalain kept thinking, he was not aware of the fact that he was not the only one with a mission in mind.

The two figures donned their black mage robes, their identities hidden from prying eyes, as they discussed their mission on behalf of the organization known as Secret Light.

The man named Alvin, a seasoned light mage, glanced at his friend Alice as he started to speak.

"The time has come to retrieve the gemstone staff."

Alvin then looked out the window and saw that nobody was paying attention to their house. He continued to talk.

"It is said to be one of the original magic staffs that were created by Lightbringer Eldar. We have received enough information to know that it is not a high-level item, but it contains simple runes that are lost in time."

"So, it is a valuable artifact."

Alice nodded as her gaze fixed on the map spread out before her.

"We know that the staff itself is hidden in the Kavrial Noble House."

Alice replied, tracing a finger along the faded ink lines denoting the Kavrial Manor location.

"I believe we can expect at least two mid-level dark mage apprentices."

"We must be careful." Not that apprentices are dangerous, but because of our identity." Alvin warned, his tone infused with both caution and excitement.

"I believe those dark mages are not strong."

"But we always have to keep in mind that we are within the borders of dark mages."

"If the battle breaks out, all the dark mages in the city will be awakened and start to look for us to take a piece from us."

"Indeed, we should try to not draw any attention to ourselves."

Alvin smiled and nodded.

He reached out to grasp Alice's arm and kissed her deeply as he looked deep into her eyes.

"Together, we will complete our mission." Alvin declared.

Alice blushed as she added

"We are the light bearers, tasked with bringing illumination to the realms."

Alice uttered the words that signify their connection to the Secret Light. The mission officially started.

With a final nod of agreement, Alice and Alvin prepared to embark on their mission in the shadows of the stone house.

-

This narrative has been purloined without the author's approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.

Skalain's mind buzzed with excitement as he poured over the pages of the tome, his eyes fixated on the description of the Dark Burst spell. His fingers traced the intricate diagrams and symbols, absorbing the essence of the spell into his consciousness.

"Dark Burst," Skalain whispered.

"Concentrate magical energy, unleash explosive dark energy, and be intriguing."

Skalain closed his eyes and commented.

"A simple dark magic for close combat, using concentrated dark energy to cause dark magic explosions from the palm that turn the target to smithereens."

"A spell like this would be useful for me right now."

He recalled the lessons of control in the tomes, the importance of balance, and the risks associated with the darker arts.

As he visualized the process described in the tome, Skalain could feel that controlling and using magic was not that simple.

With a steady breath, he began to channel his magical energy, allowing it to dance within his palms.

A tingling sensation spread through Skalain's hands.

"This is it,"

"I must strike the delicate balance between power and restraint. The release must be controlled and channeled with precision."

Tomorrow morning, Skalain wakes up and goes down to eat some breakfast.

Luckily for him, a complete breakfast with cheese, meat, and everything else only costs one copper coin.

The monetary system of the whole continent was simple and dependent on silver, copper, and gold coins.

10 copper coins and 1 silver coin

10 silver coins and one gold coin

Skalain also asked where he could buy some clothes for the waitress and heard that there was a place called Fanel Fabric that sold good-quality clothes for a good price. After finishing his breakfast, he left the inn and went to the Fanel Fabric.

Skalain stepped into Fanel Fabric,

Rows of colorful textiles adorned the shelves, inviting Skalain to explore the vast array of options.

"Of course, I am just here to have some basic-quality robes and clothes."

A friendly shopkeeper man with gray eyes and a well-tailored suit greeted Skalain with a warm smile. "Welcome, mister mage! How can I help you today?"

Skalain returned the smile, his eyes scanning the assortment of fabrics. "I am in need of some new clothes. Something practical yet comfortable."

The shopkeeper nodded understandingly. "Certainly, we have a wide selection for you to choose from. Are you looking for anything specific?"

Skalain pondered for a moment, his mind contemplating the different styles and materials available. "I seek garments that can withstand hard journeys and provide comfort."

The shopkeeper gestured towards a section of the shop, beckoning Skalain to follow. "Of course! Allow me to show you our collection of sturdy fabrics."

As Skalain perused the assortment of fabrics, his fingers brushed against the sturdy weaves, gauging their texture and strength.

"These are quality clothes that even I can tell."

After careful consideration, Skalain made his selection. "I believe these four sets of clothes will serve me well. How much do they cost?"

The shopkeeper tallied the total, calculating the value of the chosen garments. "For these four sets of clothes, it will be one silver coin."

Skalain nodded, reaching into his pouch and retrieving the agreed-upon payment.

"Thank you for your help. These clothes are exactly what I was looking for," Skalain expressed, his voice filled with genuine appreciation.

The shopkeeper smiled warmly. "I'm glad I could assist you. May these garments accompany you on many great adventures."

Skalain left the Fanel Fabric with a sense of satisfaction.

Having good clothes was an important thing in this world and in his past world. Skalain knew that good clothes not only provided some sort of comforting sense but also increased one's standing and social status.

Skalain remembers the times when he was on Earth.

As he did not have good clothes. Most of the time, people would look at him like a monster and not even glance at his side at all. These kinds of experiences are always there and never will be left until the time for changes comes. In these times, as much as I don't want to abide by the social rules,

Skalain knows for a simple fact that people judge a book by its cover.

With his purchase secured, Skalain took a deep breath and closed his eyes for a second as he thought.

"I should start preparing to collect the needed materials for myself."