This Human Immortal Is Too Serious-Chapter 482 - 480: Appear, the River of 30 Years…

Chapter 482: Chapter 480: Appear, the River of 30 Years...

"Wow, this is truly a wealthy household!"

When there were no outsiders around, Jin Wei’s eyes shone as she exclaimed, excitement mixed with a tinge of worry on her small face.

Qiu Li chuckled, but her expression still carried a trace of melancholy.

Dong Gao heaved a long sigh of relief and walked wearily to a nearby chair, his entire body exuding fatigue, yet his face showed a sense of release.

Just looking at the bedrooms assigned to Qiu Li and Dong Gao—their sheer size and lavish furnishings—they could undoubtedly be described as ’luxurious.’

Wu Wang smiled and asked, "Senior Brother, Senior Sister, what’s wrong?"

"It’s uncomfortable," muttered Qiu Li. "There are just too many formalities here."

"The pressure is quite considerable," Dong Gao sighed softly. "I’m just my uncle’s nephew. Although I’m living here comfortably enough, I still have to always be mindful of what others think."

Wu Wang said, "It’s my fault for burdening you, Senior Brother and Senior Sister."

"Pah! What are you talking about?"

Qiu Li beckoned Jin Wei over, wrapped an arm around her, and took a deep sniff of the fragrance in Jin Wei’s long hair, laughing as she said, "We just don’t like the atmosphere here; Uncle’s family is actually very nice."

"And you really shouldn’t worry about it, Junior Brother," Dong Gao said, his gaze flickering slightly. "Did you truly understand what I told you on the way here about the factional struggles?"

Wu Wang strolled to the chair beside Dong Gao and calmly sank into its soft cushions, finding them quite comfortable.

He chuckled and said, "Although I hadn’t heard about it before, after thinking it over, I more or less understand now.

The Shrine Institute is composed of multiple factions. The Hall of Priests serves as the eyes and ears of the gods, while real power rests in the hands of the Generals and City Lords. It’s more like a... system with fixed seats on a council.

What’s most important in the Luili Realm?

Surrounded on three sides by other Martial God Worlds and with barren land beyond the fourth, it’s clear that the most critical event for the Luili Realm is the Twelve Realms Tournament, held once every fifty years.

Previously, participants for the tournament were recommended by various martial academies and then trained collectively by the Shrine Institute in Liuli City. Those who participated in the tournament and returned alive were likely given important positions, climbing the ladder to the Luili Realm’s center of power.

This time, Lord Liuli God personally establishing a class has evidently made the higher-ups in the Shrine Institute a bit panicked."

Dong Gao asked, confused, "Panicked?"

"When an overwhelmingly superior force suddenly disrupts the norm, it tends to make those who benefit from a stable environment feel anxious," Wu Wang explained. "When we entered that room, we smelled a strong incense. The adjacent study was also filled with smoke, yet the doors and windows were tightly shut. Clearly, Uncle Wang was deep in thought and feeling anxious."

Qiu Li and Jin Wei, listening nearby, both chuckled.

"Uncle Wang?" Qiu Li chided. "The man is a high-ranking General, and the way you say it, he’s reduced to an old fellow basking in the sun by the roadside?"

"Is there any essential difference between them?" Wu Wang countered with a smile, leaving Qiu Li momentarily speechless.

Dong Gao asked, "What else? Little Junior Brother, how do you understand these things?"

Wu Wang pointed to his head and laughed, saying, "Just some thoughts I pieced together.

At this moment, the more than three hundred young people participating in Lord Liuli God’s examination have become a special kind of resource. No one can be sure who Lord Liuli God will choose, so every friendly young person becomes a form of capital for these influential figures.

If twenty young people like myself attend Senior Brother’s uncle’s banquet tonight, it would indicate that Senior Brother’s uncle holds a considerably high position within the Shrine Institute.

If thirty or even more attend, then Senior Brother’s uncle’s influence in the Luili Realm must be very significant.

This special period is very short. In a few days, after the examination ends, power will be redistributed. The positions in the Sky Class are almost always given to the strongest individuals, those around eighty years old, while the Earth Class represents the hope for the future.

Right now, whichever major figure in Liuli City can attract more of the young people destined for the future Earth Class, the stronger their influence in the city will become.

That’s what I meant by ’riding the favorable wind.’"

"Now that you put it that way..." Dong Gao shifted slightly and smiled. "By coming to my uncle’s place, are we the ones taking advantage, or is my uncle benefiting more from us being here?"

"It’s mutually beneficial," Wu Wang said. He casually picked up an untouched cup of tea from the side and gulped down two mouthfuls.

He continued, "I have no intention of getting involved in the politics of the Luili Realm, but I won’t refuse their kindness either. What they value is simply the relationship between those in the Earth Class and Lord Liuli God.

Ultimately, the true value of a spot in the Earth Class will depend on Lord Liuli God’s attitude."

"Is there anything we need to pay special attention to?" Qiu Li asked.

"Jin Wei’s initial cultivation," Wu Wang said, his gaze softening whenever he looked at Jin Wei. "If she is successfully chosen by Lord Liuli God, I might be busy for some time. Then, I’ll have to entrust her training to you, Senior Brother and Senior Sister."

Qiu Li said softly, "Well, that’s naturally our responsibility."

Dong Gao also chimed in, "Junior Brother, you can go without worry. Being at my uncle’s place has its advantages; no one will dare to bully Little Wei here."

Jin Wei giggled, ran up to Wu Wang, and chirped, "Brother, I’ll be good! You go ahead and focus on your cultivation!"

Wu Wang laughed and gently pinched her cheek, saying warmly, "Listen to your Senior Sister. I’ll come back whenever I get the chance."

"Ah, ah," Dong Gao interjected from the side, "There’s still a major examination. Even if you’re fully confident, Junior Brother, you shouldn’t speak so definitively. After all, this is a gathering of all the prodigies of the Luili Realm..."

Dong Gao suddenly seemed to recall something and looked at Wu Wang with a complex expression.

Third Stage of the Martial Soul Realm, sixteen years old... Unless Lord Liuli God is blind, he wouldn’t leave such a young man out.

Dong Gao said gently, "Come back to visit often."

Senior Sister Qiu Li couldn’t help tilting her head slightly, her eyes filled with immense doubt.

Wu Wang and Jin Wei were each assigned lodgings adjacent to Senior Sister Qiu Li.

They were even provided with Maidens, but Wu Wang sent them all to attend to Jin Wei instead.

It had been a tiring journey by boat and carriage since leaving the small town; Little Wei had truly endured a lot. He wondered if Aunt Qing and Uncle Shan were missing them back home. Communication in the Luili Realm was always inconvenient. To even think of visiting home would mean waiting at least three to five years.

Wu Wang took a bath, changed into a clean set of short clothes, and picked up some books from the guest room, reading by the window with relish.

From Jin Wei’s room came bursts of light laughter. She had quickly befriended the Maidens and had started running around, playing games.

Playful little thing, Wu Wang mused with a smile. He wondered if, after this experience, when Jin Wei returned to her usual ’piquant’ self, she might blush for years, so shy she wouldn’t even want to leave her room.

At nightfall, objects resembling lanterns were hung outside, casting a soft glow over the rear garden and corridors.

A Maiden knocked and entered, bringing a bit of light. Then a guard in Battle Armor stepped in with precise movements, saying meticulously, "Sir, it is time for you to attend the banquet."

"I’m coming."

Wu Wang put down his book and glanced at Jin Wei with concern. He saw that she was sound asleep. With Senior Sister Qiu Li and Senior Brother Dong Gao next door, and a small Zhong hidden to protect her, he didn’t need to worry too much.

But Wu Wang still made a point of going to his Senior Brother and Senior Sister’s room. He knocked on the door, made sure there were no strange noises inside, and said, "Senior Brother, Senior Sister, I’m off to the banquet."

"Yeah, go ahead and relax. Don’t be too formal in front of Uncle," Dong Gao replied, yawning widely. 𝚏𝕣𝐞𝗲𝐰𝕖𝐛𝐧𝕠𝕧𝚎𝚕.𝐜𝚘𝗺

"Senior Brother, Senior Sister, please rest well."

Wu Wang chuckled softly and followed the guard away.

Inside their room, Dong Gao stretched his neck to peek outside, then pulled up the thin blanket, ready to begin a beautiful and romantic evening.

Clearly, the couple had little interest in banquets or participating in the Wang family’s grand ambitions.

After several turns, just as Wu Wang was marveling at the extravagance of these worldly nobles, the path ahead suddenly widened. A large, hall-like stone building appeared before him, its interior brightly lit, with the sounds of music drifting out.

The guard led Wu Wang to a red carpet laid on the ground, then bowed and invited him to enter.

Wu Wang glanced at his attire—just his usual practice clothes. The soft linen material was comfortable and breathable, though it looked rather plain.

The Heavenly Emperor, of course, wouldn’t deem it necessary to prepare special attire for such a gathering. So, he entered quite composedly.

Inside the stone building, the spacious hall contained several rows of tables and chairs, reminiscent of the auditoriums Wu Wang remembered from his school days. Young people were seated one by one, while a few elegantly dressed masters sat behind a long table at the front.

As soon as Wu Wang entered, Wang Mianjin, on the main seat, visibly brightened. He nodded to Wu Wang with a smile and turned to whisper something to the elder beside him, seemingly saying, "That’s Old Qiu’s chief Disciple."

The chatter in the hall suddenly ceased, and all eyes turned towards Wu Wang.

Over thirty young faces showed a hint of curiosity, half of them belonging to exceptionally beautiful girls—such is the favoritism of the creator, often bestowing both talent and beauty upon the same individual.

Wu Wang, however, spotted two familiar faces. Before he could speak, they had already sprung to their feet.

"Junior Martial Uncle! What are you doing here?"

The young man was tall and slender, with bright eyes. His slightly sunken eye sockets and high-bridged nose, set against an almost perfect jawline, gave him a distinct kind of handsome.

It was Mo Feng.

Wu Wang raised an eyebrow at Mo Feng. Heedless of the surrounding gazes, he opened his arms to embrace Mo Feng in a hearty hug as Mo Feng rushed forward.

"Didn’t Senior Martial Sister tell you? She recommended me as well."

"I knew about that, and I also heard you were nearly ambushed. I thought you were still at the Shrine Institute and was trying to figure out how to visit you."

Mo Feng said joyfully, "It’s great that you’re alright! Junior Martial Uncle, look, I’m now at the second rank of the Martial Soul Realm! I broke through last month!"

Wu Wang patted Mo Feng’s shoulder and said warmly, "Pretty good."

"Uncle Qing Shan."

A gentle voice called out from the side. Fu Er stepped forward and curtsied, showing more etiquette than she had a few years ago.

Wu Wang sized up Fu Er. Her slightly bewitching, radiant face was paired with a somewhat bold choice of attire: a light yellow, sheer skirt that barely concealed her long, shapely legs. Her exposed, slender waist had a near-perfect curve, and her well-developed feminine features were boldly displayed, creating an alluring cleavage that could easily captivate the young men present.

Yet, Fu Er’s eyes remained remarkably clear and innocent.

Perhaps time had changed her figure and curves, transforming her into a seductive and beautiful Martial Artist, but what hadn’t changed was the way she looked at Mo Feng, and the unabashed confidence in her eyes that screamed, ’This man is mine.’

"Hmm," Wu Wang said with a smile. "Years have passed, and Martial Niece Fu Er has grown ever more beautiful."

Fu Er blinked.

Only then did Wu Wang realize he was the same age as them, though he had habitually assumed an air of seniority.

Ah, it’s just a habit from being the Heavenly Emperor.

"Mo Feng, Qing Shan," Wang Mianjin said with a smile from the head table. "Don’t just stand there chatting. Please, come and take your seats."

Mo Feng replied hurriedly, "Thank you, General! We were a bit impolite."

Mo Feng and Fu Er had originally been seated at the far left of the front row. The empty seats beside them were intended for Wu Wang. However, thanks to Mo Feng’s arrangement, Wu Wang inexplicably found himself seated between his martial nephew and martial niece.

Fu Er nearly rolled her eyes into the back of her head.

Wu Wang whispered, "Junior Brother, let’s switch seats."

"Uh, I want to talk with Junior Martial Uncle."

"Can’t we still talk if we switch?"

"That’s true." Mo Feng suddenly understood, stood up, and swapped places with Wu Wang.

As soon as Wu Wang sat down, Fu Er gave him a thumbs-up from the side, her hands clasped in delight.

Such a simple girlish crush.

At the head table, Wang Mianjin cleared his throat and raised his cup, inviting the young people to drink with him, saying, "I’ll just say a few words."

He then proceeded to offer some words of encouragement, along with a few prods for the youngsters.

Most of the young people attending the banquet—or their parents and teachers—understood the purpose of General Wang’s feast; from this night on, they would be considered part of the ’Royal Faction.’

Wu Wang felt several gazes directed at him and thought to himself.

Is it beginning? The classic provocation plot?

Youthful lads from all directions, brimming with fighting spirit.

I unexpectedly made a name for myself on the way here, and it seems I’ve set the tone for tonight. These young people, gathered from all around the Luili Realm, their spirits high, are eager to prove themselves in front of the opposite sex, and they can’t see through the second layer of my disguise...

Interesting.

Wu Wang was unconcerned about this. He decided to let his martial nephew Mo Feng show off a bit later and, at the same time, see how prepared Mo Feng was.

Finally, after Wang Mianjin had briefly spoken for an hour, the banquet officially began.

Wang Mianjin and several high-profile figures from Liuli City chatted and laughed at the main table, no longer paying much attention to the youths. Below, the young people began to chat animatedly with those seated beside them.

"Little Martial Uncle, how is your cultivation now?" Mo Feng asked gravely. "You’re at a disadvantage because of your age; you’re the youngest one here. If only it were a few years later. If I get chosen, I’ll definitely recommend you to Lord Liuli God."

"Ah, just take care of yourself." Wu Wang sipped the lead-containing fruit wine from his silver goblet and laughed. "What, you still don’t have confidence in me? I’m your elder, after all."

"The competition this time is sure to be intense," Mo Feng lowered his voice. "From what I’ve gathered, the Earth Class’s grand examination is divided into three stages, all conducted under the watchful eye of Lord Liuli God.

The first stage is self-demonstration, which means standing on a platform and performing a set of fist techniques."

A show-off contest?

Wu Wang’s mouth twitched slightly.

"It’s actually about assessing one’s cultivation level," Mo Feng added. "Then, those who receive tokens move on to the second stage. I’ve heard the second stage involves fighting on a platform, but it’s unclear if it’s by drawing lots or if participants volunteer.

The third stage is said to be undecided; Lord Liuli God will make the selections then. If you can get through the first two stages and perhaps catch Lord Liuli God’s eye, you’ll be in the class."

Wu Wang was speechless.

"What about the Sky Class?"

"The Sky Class has already been decided," Mo Feng smiled. "Unlike us, those who will represent the Luili Realm in the Twelve Realms Tournament are set to be this batch."

"COUGH, COUGH."

Fu Er coughed softly from the side. Wu Wang and Mo Feng simultaneously turned their gazes, only to see two young men with tense expressions striding over.

Here they come, Wu Wang thought, smiling calmly to himself, a hint of anticipation in his eyes.

He truly wanted to experience the thrill... the passion... of that saying: ’Thirty years east of the river, thirty years west; never scorn a young man for his poverty.’

"Are you Martial Artist Qing Shan?" one of them asked quite politely.

Wu Wang nodded and stood up. Mo Feng instinctively moved in front of Wu Wang, frowning at the newcomers as he slightly tilted his chin up.

Wu Wang patted Mo Feng’s arm. "Gentlemen, what can I do for you?"

"You’ve been through so much!" The young man took a step forward, grasping Wu Wang’s palm and shaking it vigorously. "To encounter such a hardship on the way here, you must be exhausted!"

"Yes, nearly attacked by Martial Spirit Realm masters from another realm. It really did almost make us break into a sweat." Mo Feng nodded with composure, deliberately lowering his voice. "My little martial uncle received divine protection and sensed the trouble in advance."

More people gathered around, murmuring:

"Qing Shan, don’t be afraid. Once you’re in Liuli City, you’re really home."

"Right, you’re young, and all of us here are your big brothers in Liuli City. My dad commands troops; three sections of the city are under his control. Come hang out at my place tomorrow!"

"At just sixteen to be at Martial Master Realm grade eight, two grades above me! You really are a cultivation monster. You might truly be selected by Lord Liuli God!"

"Please look out for me in the future. My family doesn’t have much clout, just quite a bit of money."

"We all heard Mo Feng singing your praises to the skies."

For a moment, Wu Wang was a bit overwhelmed.

Don’t these guys see me as competition?

Then again, it’s not like young people participating in the grand examination must harbor deep-seated enmities...

Upon reflection, representing the Luili Realm in the Tournament seems to be an exceedingly dangerous affair. These talented young people with strong backgrounds don’t need this path to pave their futures.

Power structures in Liuli City are already firmly established.

Suddenly, Wu Wang revealed a warm smile and engaged in cordial exchanges with these mostly affluent and noble youths, transforming into a veritable social butterfly.

Mo Feng, standing to the side, looked somewhat indignant.

Whether it was being a martial nephew or receiving guidance on Martial Techniques, he was clearly the first one...