Series & First Appearance
Ling Wang is a prominent character from the anime and webcomic series "The Daily Life of the Immortal King" (Chinese: "不死者的日常生活", Pinyin: Bùsǐ zhě de Rìcháng Shēnghuó), created by Kuxuan. The character first appears in Chapter 1 of the web novel, which laid the groundwork for the subsequent manga and anime adaptations. Produced by Bilibili, the anime adaptation premiered in 2020.
Profile at a Glance
Ling Wang is a 16-year-old high school student who serves as the series’ protagonist. Despite his nonchalant demeanor, he is extraordinarily powerful and has the ability to save the world while striving to remain inconspicuous. He is affiliated with Tianmei High School and is known for his love of crispy noodles, which serves as both a personal quirk and motivation.
Personality & Motivations
Ling Wang exhibits a non-talkative and laid-back personality, often characterized by his desire to blend in and avoid unnecessary trouble. His goal is to maintain an average life, contrasting sharply with his hidden capabilities. He is often seen with dead fish eyes, a reflection of his desire for mediocrity, and his speech is frequently punctuated by ellipses ("…"). This quirk encapsulates his indifferent attitude while hinting at a depth of emotion and untold experiences beneath the surface.
Ling’s motivations stem from a desire for normalcy in a world where he inherently possesses extraordinary abilities. This conflict between his wish to be average and his reality as a powerful individual creates a recurring tension throughout the series.
Abilities / Powers
Ling Wang’s abilities are extensive and multi-faceted:
- Immense Power: He possesses a power level that surpasses even the legendary figure Wukong, earning him the nickname "King in Lurking."
- Combat Skills: Ling is proficient in various martial arts, which he employs skillfully in battles, often without revealing his full potential.
- Diverse Techniques: He has access to a range of supernatural techniques, allowing him to manipulate energy and perform feats that seem impossible.
- Hiding His Powers: A key aspect of his character is the deliberate suppression of his abilities in order to appear more average. This leads to his involvement in numerous life-threatening situations while attempting to avoid recognition.
Despite these talents, Ling’s wish to avoid attention can sometimes lead to limitations in utilizing his full strength, creating a juxtaposition between his potential and his choices.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Throughout the series, Ling Wang experiences significant character development that is catalyzed by various story arcs:
- Early Conflicts at Tianmei High School: His attempts to remain low-key are frequently thwarted by his encounters with other powerful students, forcing him to confront his nature as a hero even while trying to lead an average life.
- Confronting Threats: Ling is often drawn into crises that threaten the world or those he cares about, leading to moments of reluctant heroism. These arcs showcase his internal struggle between desire for anonymity and responsibility.
- Friendship and Alliances: Ling gradually learns the value of forming connections, as his relationships with classmates and allies deepen, expanding his understanding of what it means to be both an ordinary student and an extraordinary warrior.
Notable Relationships
- Father Wang: Ling’s father has beautiful phoenix eyes, a stark contrast to Ling’s dead fish eyes. This serves as a comedic plot line, raising questions about Ling’s lineage and identity.
- Mother Wang: As a supportive figure, she contrasts with Ling’s need for normalcy, ultimately representing the warmth of familial ties in his life.
- Rivals and Friends: Ling interacts with various powerful characters who challenge his perspectives on life, friendship, and responsibility. Notable figures include Wukong and other elite students at Tianmei High School.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Ling Wang’s most memorable lines is during a confrontation where he states, "I just want to eat my crispy noodles in peace…" (Chapter 5). This line encapsulates his overarching desire for simplicity amidst chaos, resonating with fans who appreciate his relatable motivations.
Another notable scene occurs when Ling reluctantly engages in battle to protect his friends, showcasing the internal conflict between his wish to be ordinary and the hero he inadvertently becomes.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Voice Actor: Ling Wang is voiced by Yuki Kaji in the Japanese adaptation, bringing depth to his character through a performance that emphasizes both his indifference and latent power. In the English dub, he is voiced by Michael Sinterniklaas.
- Popularity: Ling Wang has garnered a significant fanbase, frequently ranking in polls as one of the most likable characters in the series due to his relatable struggles and humorous quirks.
- Cultural References: His love for crispy noodles serves as a humorous cultural touchstone, appealing to food lovers and fans of slice-of-life elements in anime.
This character bio provides a comprehensive look at Ling Wang, blending his unique traits, abilities, and the intricate narrative surrounding him.
