I am a Late Bloomer in the Immortal World
Chapter 16: Martial Arts Prodigy

A few days later, Wei Tu’s constant practice and unwavering dedication had become apparent to Shan Wuju. 

Shan Wuju, having observed Wei Tu's efforts, was ready to test his abilities more thoroughly.

Shan Wuju, while sipping on a cup of cool tea, watched Wei Tu with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. The old master had initially doubted Wei Tu’s claims about only practicing the Longevity Skill, suspecting there might be other influences at play. 

However, Wei Tu’s dedication and the impressive results spoke for themselves.

“Most people would have no chance to give me gifts, and even if they did, it wouldn’t be something I lack,” Shan Wuju remarked, dismissing the idea of gifts. 

“If you say you’ve only practiced the Longevity Skill, then show me what you’ve learned.”

Wei Tu took a deep breath and nodded. He retrieved the manual for the Longevity Skill from his clothes and handed it to Shan Wuju.

“I have practiced this skill diligently for over two years. I am confident in my abilities, but if you doubt me, I will demonstrate it,” Wei Tu said calmly.

Shan Wuju took the manual, his eyes scanning the illustrations. He had seen Wei Tu practicing the Longevity Skill at night and had been impressed by the consistency. Yet, seeing it in action was a different matter.

Wei Tu stepped into the courtyard, prepared to demonstrate his skill. He assumed a stance, his posture embodying the essence of the Longevity Skill's thirty-two forms. Each movement was fluid and precise, reflecting years of practice and dedication. His execution was smooth and seamless, betraying no signs of hesitation or clumsiness.

Shan Wuju observed intently, his eyes narrowing as he scrutinized Wei Tu’s technique. The precision and grace of Wei Tu’s movements were reminiscent of a seasoned practitioner.

“To achieve such mastery of the Longevity Skill in just two years.” Shan Wuju thought, astonished. “It’s a testament to both your talent and perseverance.”

He watched as Wei Tu completed his demonstration, his own skepticism gradually fading. Shan Wuju had initially suspected that Wei Tu might have other training or hidden skills. However, the proficiency displayed in the Longevity Skill was undeniable. It was clear that Wei Tu had invested considerable time and effort into perfecting it.

Shan Wuju finally spoke, his tone a mix of admiration and approval. “You have shown exceptional skill and dedication. It is rare to see someone achieve this level of expertise so quickly. From today onwards, you are no longer just a laborer but my disciple.”

Wei Tu’s eyes brightened at the recognition. “Thank you, Master. I am honored and will continue to work hard.”

Shan Wuju nodded. “You will no longer be required to work in the front yard. Instead, you will begin your formal training as my disciple. Your dedication has earned you this opportunity.”

As Wei Tu accepted his new role, he felt a renewed sense of purpose. The path ahead would be challenging, but with Shan Wuju’s guidance, he was determined to excel and prove his worth in the martial world.

"Leave the grain drying and horse feeding to Deng An," Shan Wuju instructed firmly.

Shan Wuju glanced at Shan Gao, who had just emerged from the main hall, and said, "Go prepare the tea for the disciple and make a few dishes. Today, I’m taking on a new disciple."

During his time at the Shan residence, Shan Wuju had observed Wei Tu’s compliance closely and remembered it well. Being a good servant, not offending the master, meant that, even if Wei Tu later gained fame or became an official, he would not make significant mistakes.

Of course, Shan Wuju’s decision to take Wei Tu as a disciple was not solely based on his obedience. More importantly, Wei Tu had the aptitude for martial arts and showed promise as a martial artist officer.

Having a disciple who could inherit his skills and take care of his family was a favorable situation.

"Yes, sir," Shan Gao responded, then called a maid to accompany her to the kitchen.

A short while later, the maid brought the tea for the disciple.

"With this bowl of tea, you become my disciple. I will teach you martial arts, and you must care for me in my old age. Of course, I, Shan Wuju, have children and don't need you to worry about that. However, you must have that intention!"

"Do you understand?"

Shan Wuju sat in a straight-backed chair, looking at Wei Tu, who was kneeling before him, speaking with deliberate emphasis.

"Disciple understands," Wei Tu replied, nodding.

Martial arts skills are akin to a craftsman's craft—mastery of them can sustain a person’s livelihood. 

However, there is an old saying: "A master’s prosperity hinges on the disciple’s success." According to the traditional values and social morals of the time, a disciple must care for their master in their old age, regardless of where they go.

Given Shan Wuju’s wealth, Wei Tu did not expect to provide for him materially, but as the old master said, maintaining this sense of filial duty was crucial.

"Very well, with the tea offered, our master-disciple relationship is officially established," Shan Wuju said with satisfaction after hearing Wei Tu's response.

Wei Tu, not hesitating any longer, took the large porcelain bowl filled with tea from the maid, knelt on the ground, and respectfully presented the tea to Shan Wuju.

Shan Wuju drank the tea in one gulp.

Then, Shan Wuju led Wei Tu into the third courtyard to his living quarters.

In the living quarters, against the wall, there was an altar table with two sets of straight-backed chairs on either side. On the altar table, two incense candles burned, and an ebony tablet was set up, inscribed with the name “Master Shi Ming” in gilded characters.

"In my youth, I studied martial arts under the tutelage of the renowned ‘Golden Swordsman’ Shi Ming."

"Golden Swordsman is my master and your grandmaster."

Shan Wuju lit a stick of incense and placed it in the incense burner. He then spoke with a nostalgic expression, recounting the lineage of his martial arts.

"Golden Swordsman?" Wei Tu silently noted the name 'Golden Swordsman Shi Ming.' Given that he had produced a martial scholar like Shan Wuju, Shi Ming was undoubtedly no ordinary figure.