Beast Realms: Trapped in the Game

"How is it? Is it to your liking?" Alfa asked, watching Wein closely as he inspected the sword.

The longsword rested in Wein's hands—simple, but flawless. The blade had no elaborate engravings, and the hilt was a plain black, matte and solid. Yet everything about it felt right. It was a sword made for function, not for show.

Wein swung it experimentally.

Whoosh.

The blade sliced through the air with a crisp sound.

It was sharp. Balanced. Comfortable in his grip.

Each motion came naturally—fluid, unforced, like his hand and the weapon were made for each other.

Perfect.

The craftsmanship was clear. Though unadorned, the blade was expertly forged. It was an ideal weapon for beginners, but good enough to be used in serious combat.

"It's perfect. Thank you so much," Wein said, bowing slightly. His voice was sincere, his eyes gleaming with gratitude.

He had only met Alfa a week ago. His background was still a mystery, yet Alfa had helped him without question.

Maybe it was because they believed he was a descendant of one of the Elite Families. Or perhaps it was something else entirely. Regardless, Wein was grateful.

In this unfamiliar world, the kindness he'd received gave him a rare sense of security.

"Don't worry about it," Alfa replied with a shrug. "You two are going hunting, right? Perfect time to break it in."

"Yes, Uncle," Terr responded, stepping forward. His own new sword hung at his waist, slightly longer and much heavier than Wein's. "After this, I'll accompany him on his first hunt. This sword came just in time."

Alfa nodded, arms crossed over his chest, his eyes drifting back to Wein.

Indeed, his actions were a deliberate approach because he wanted to form a connection with Wein, thinking that he was a descendant of the Elite Family. After all, being a friend of their family was an honor for them.

Wein, however, didn't fully grasp the significance of the Elite Families. To him, they were just high-ranking individuals, similar to royalty or politicians back on Earth. But in this world, the Elite Families represented far more than status or power.

To the people here, the Elite Families were a symbol of humanity's superiority over the beasts. As long as there were those blessed by the god, it meant that the gods had chosen humanity—raising them above the monsters that lurked in the other realms.

In a world perpetually intertwined with the threat of beast realms, that belief was a source of comfort. It was faith. Proof that the gods were watching over them.

And in the hearts of the people, the Elite Families were seen as humanity's protectors—champions chosen by divine will.

That was why he was furious with Terr when he first brought Wein to his shop. If the boy had offended Wein, it would've been the same as offending an Elite Family.

"So, when do you plan to head to the Beast Tower?" 

"Right after the hunt," Terr replied, his voice steady with purpose. "If everything goes well, Wein will challenge the second level. As for me, I'm heading straight for the tenth."

Alfa raised a brow, narrowing his eyes slightly as he studied Wein.

"You're already planning to climb the tower? Are you sure?" Alfa asked, his voice low and tinged with concern.

Seeing the serious look on his face, Wein shrugged.

"That depends on how I perform during our hunt," he replied honestly. "Since I can't remember how to fight or hunt, there's a good chance I'll make mistakes. So we'll decide afterward."

"Don't worry, Uncle," Terr chimed in with a confident grin. "Honestly, I think Wein will do just fine. He was already impressive in our training. Even though he's forgotten how to fight, his body is naturally sharp and quick to adjust. After just a week, he's already able to spar with me properly."

There was a note of pride in Terr's voice, and it wasn't just flattery—it was the truth.

Wein had no explanation for it himself.

His body reacted to movements before his thoughts could catch up—like an instinct buried deep within his muscles. Every day of training had made him faster, stronger, more precise. It felt as if his body had been sculpted for combat.

Even his stamina and awareness were improving at a rate that surprised him.

It was like… he was blessed with a high-grade talent and body.

He had never touched a sword before. And yet, within one week, he had gone from clumsy swings to trading blows with Terr, a trained fighter. It was both exciting and terrifying.

But Wein wasn't complaining. He didn't need years of training to catch up. As long as he stayed focused, he was confident he could master swordsmanship—and more.

Alfa didn't look surprised by Terr's statement. Instead, he nodded, his face unreadable.

He's probably even more convinced now that I'm from an Elite Family, Wein thought.

"So, are you confident you'll pass the tenth floor this time?" Alfa asked, shifting his gaze back to Terr.

Terr's expression turned serious. His fingers curled around the hilt of his sword.

"Last time, I was just short of a proper weapon. That beast's hide was too tough. But with this new blade… I'm sure I'll break through."

Wein listened quietly as they spoke about Terr's past attempt. The level ten beast was known for its thick, nearly impenetrable hide. Terr had been close to victory, but his sword had shattered in the heat of battle. 

That's why he especially came to District 1—to Alfa.

Alfa's forge wasn't glamorous. His blades weren't adorned with fancy gems or golden hilts, but they were reliable and durable. 

"It's good to be confident," Alfa said at last, rubbing his beard. "But don't be too cocky. Else you'll embarrass yourself again."

"Uncle, have some faith in me, alright?" Terr shot him a grin, clearly used to the blunt tone.

Wein chuckled at the familiar exchange between them. 

He turned toward Alfa.

"We'll head straight to the Beast tower after the hunt, so we will not be able to stop by. But we'll visit once we finish our business."

"That's right, Uncle. Don't miss me too much," Terr added with a wink.

"Hmph. I won't miss you," Alfa grumbled, though the corner of his mouth twitched.

Just then, his tone shifted—gruff and low.

"One more thing. After your trip to the Beast Tower… you might need to head home."

Terr blinked, caught off guard.

 "Huh? Why?"

"Something's going on with your family. I got a letter last night asking for you."

Wein already knew that Alfa had a history with Terr's family, so it wasn't surprising that they were reaching out to Terr through him.

Terr's brows knit together as he processed the news. A moment passed before his gaze sharpened.

"It must be about the upcoming competition," he muttered.

Alfa's expression didn't shift.

"I don't know. But they want you back soon."

Terr's hand rested on his sword as his jaw tightened.

Whatever it was, it sounded serious.