Beyond the Script: The Extra Who Stole the Mangakyo

Chapter 15: Chapter 15

Chapter 15: A Day of Rest and Small Indulgences

Descending the mountain felt like stepping back into reality. After days of grueling training, a near-death battle, and acquiring an overpowered weapon, the mundane sight of civilization was almost jarring.

The moment I reached the base, I hailed a taxi, sinking into the backseat with a relieved sigh. My muscles were sore, but not unbearably so, thanks to the Purification Potion cleansing my body of impurities. Still, the exhaustion of constantly pushing my limits weighed on me.

I needed a break.

"Where to?" the driver asked, glancing at me through the mirror.

I hesitated for a moment before deciding. "The city center. A decent hotel, preferably."

The driver nodded, and we set off.

---

A New Look for a New Self

As the taxi weaved through the city streets, I caught glimpses of my reflection in the window. My physique had changed.

Thanks to my increased stats, my body had undergone slight but noticeable improvements. My previously lean frame had filled out with more defined muscle, giving me a balanced, athletic build. My face had subtly sharpened, making me look more refined, almost noble-like.

Most importantly, my eyes were different.

Even when my Sharingan was inactive, they held an unnatural depth. A subtle red tint shimmered whenever light hit them at certain angles.

I needed a solution.

When we arrived at the shopping district, I got out and made my first purchase—a pair of sunglasses. Sliding them on, I checked my reflection in a nearby storefront.

"Better. Now I don't look like a possessed demon."

---

I booked a hotel suite, splurging on a high-rise room with a breathtaking view of the city skyline. The sheer comfort of the plush bed was enough to make me groan in relief.

Dropping my bags, I collapsed onto the mattress. "Finally... a real bed."

I lay there for a few minutes, staring at the ceiling. It felt surreal to just... relax. No training, no battles, no urgent need to survive. Just a normal day in the city.

Then, an amused voice echoed in my mind.

"Getting too comfortable already?"

I groaned, rolling onto my side. "Kurenai, do you ever shut up?"

"As your partner, it's my duty to remind you that laziness leads to weakness."

"Let me enjoy one damn day."

"Tch. Fine. Just don't get too soft."

I glanced at my wrist, where my katana had transformed into a simple black bracelet. A useful feature—allowing me to carry my weapon discreetly.

Kurenai chuckled. "Surprised? You think a legendary sword would make its wielder lug it around all day?"

I smirked. "Convenient. If only you had an off-switch."

---

With my gear sorted, I decided to spend the day like a normal person.

First stop: A movie theater.

I grabbed some popcorn and watched a blockbuster fantasy film. Seeing over-the-top sword fights was oddly amusing now that I had actual combat experience.

Next stop: Shopping.

I updated my wardrobe, buying comfortable clothes and a few formal outfits—just in case. I also got some gloves to help conceal my calloused hands from constant training.

Last stop: A gaming café.

Despite my new reality, my old habits lingered. I logged into an online game on my phone, enjoying the mindless fun of PvP battles. @@novelbin@@

As I relaxed, I thought about my past self—stuck in a hospital bed, playing games to escape. Now, I was in a world that once existed only as pixels.

"Crazy how life works."

---

By the time night fell, I returned to my hotel, feeling more refreshed than I had in weeks.

Kurenai's voice hummed in my mind. "So, what's next?"

I stared out at the city lights.

"Training. Planning. And then... power."

For the first time in a long while, I felt ready.