Beyond the Script: The Extra Who Stole the Mangakyo

Chapter 8: Chapter 8

Chapter 8: The First Step Toward Power

The academy library was massive.

Three floors of endless bookshelves, ancient tomes, and knowledge collected from all the different races over the years. Students came here to study magic theory, history, or combat techniques.

I came here for one reason only: to find a proper sword style.

A combat manual had been hidden here in the game. It wasn't a legendary technique, but it was more than enough for a beginner like me.

Now, I just had to find it.

The Hidden Manual

I walked past rows of books, scanning each shelf. The place was nearly empty—most students were either in class or training.

The book I was looking for wasn't in the official records. It was placed in the wrong section on purpose, hidden among useless theory books that no one cared about.

I moved toward the Advanced Magic Theory section and ran my fingers along the dusty spines of old books.

Then, I spotted it.

A thin, brown book wedged between two thick tomes. No title. No markings. Just an unassuming, worn-out cover.

I pulled it out and flipped through the pages.

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[Phantom Edge Sword Style – Beginner Manual]

A sword technique focused on speed, unpredictability, and precise strikes. Designed for fighters who rely on deception and agility rather than brute force.

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A grin formed on my lips. Found it.

This technique was perfect for me.

I was still physically weak, so I couldn't rely on raw power.

I had the Mangekyō Sharingan, which meant my perception was leagues ahead of others—a speed-based style would work well.

The technique specialized in quick counters and misleading movements, which fit my need to stay hidden while secretly getting stronger.

In the game, this manual was only discovered much later by the protagonist. But now? It was mine.

I carefully hid the book inside my jacket and left the library.

Time to put this to use.

Training Begins

Back in the training yard, I opened the manual and read the first section.

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Basic Principles of Phantom Edge:

1. Flow Like Water – No rigid stances. Every movement should be fluid and unpredictable.

2. Strike Without Warning – Attack from unexpected angles to disrupt the opponent's defense.

3. Speed Over Power – A fast, well-placed strike can be deadlier than a strong but slow one.

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I took a deep breath and got into position.

Unlike the Basic Swordsmanship stance, which was rigid and structured, Phantom Edge was about staying loose and reactive.

I took a step forward—but instead of moving directly, I twisted slightly to the side, adding an unpredictable motion to my approach.

Then, I slashed the wooden sword in a smooth arc, making the attack seem slower before snapping forward at the last moment.

The difference was immediate.

If I had used a normal attack, the enemy could have easily blocked or dodged. But with this feint, my attack would land before they even realized it.

I repeated the movements again and again, refining them.

Step. Twist. Slash.

Step. Fake. Lunge.

Retreat. Counter. Pivot.

Soon, I was sweating, my breath coming in short bursts. My body struggled to keep up with the advanced footwork, but I forced myself to adapt.

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[New Art Acquired!]

Phantom Edge Sword Style (Beginner) [2 star]

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A new notification appeared in my vision.

A C-rank style—way better than the D-rank Basic Swordsmanship I had before.

I grinned. This was real progress.

An Unexpected Visitor

Just as I was about to take a break, I heard footsteps approaching.

I quickly turned—only to see a girl standing near the entrance of the training yard.

Long crimson hair, sharp golden eyes, and a gaze that screamed noble pride. She wore the academy's high-class uniform, her posture flawless.

Alicia von Rosenheim.

One of the main heroines of the game.

A prodigy swordswoman, heir to the powerful Rosenheim family, and one of the strongest students in the academy.

...And someone I really didn't want to deal with right now.

She stared at me with mild curiosity. "You. What are you doing here?"

I wiped sweat from my brow and answered casually, "Training. Same as you, I assume?"

Her eyes narrowed slightly. "I don't recall seeing you here before."

Ah, right. The real Alden Blackwood had never trained seriously before. He was the disgraced noble who barely scraped into the academy—not someone expected to put in extra effort.

I needed to act in character.

I shrugged. "Got tired of being weak. Figured I should do something about it."

Alicia raised an eyebrow, then crossed her arms. "At least you understand your own weakness."

I forced a polite smile. "Nice of you to notice."

Her gaze flickered to the wooden sword in my hand. "Your movements just now... They weren't basic strikes."

Crap. She was too sharp.

I had been too absorbed in training and forgot that a prodigy like her could easily recognize advanced techniques. @@novelbin@@

She took a step closer. "Where did you learn that?"

I needed an excuse—fast.

"I saw some seniors practicing and copied what I could."

She frowned slightly but didn't push further. "Copying others won't take you far. If you're serious about improving, you need proper instruction."

She then turned and walked toward the training dummies, drawing her sword.

I let out a silent breath of relief. That was close.

Final Thoughts

Today had been another huge success.

I found a real sword style.

I started adapting to it.

I managed to avoid suspicion from a major character—barely.

But this was just the beginning.

Now that I had a proper foundation, it was time to push myself even further.

Because if I wanted to survive in this world?

I needed to get stronger—fast.