Published: March 3, 2025
Chapter 707: Just Around the Corner
Tian Xiaoyu was very worried, as Liu Yu's impression of her had greatly diminished due to this operation.
So she maintained an outward calm, but internally, she was filled with uncertainty and anxiety.
Liu Yu leisurely sipped his spiritual tea, glanced at her upon hearing her voice, but did not respond immediately.
He had observed Tian Xiaoyu's performance during this operation. As a manager, she had qualified, and could even be considered outstanding.
However, regardless of how well she performed in the preliminary work, if she couldn't persuade the ancestor of the Feng family, the ultimate result would still be a failure.
Although her performance was commendable, he couldn't let her off without punishment.
There should be rewards for well-executed tasks, and punishments for poorly executed ones; only with clear rewards and punishments can one manage their subordinate cultivators effectively.
Managing a small team might allow for a casual smile and a pass.
But when it comes to managing a force of hundreds or thousands of cultivators, if there are no penalties for poor performance and no rewards for effective work, how can one ensure that subordinates will diligently carry out their tasks in the future?
Thus, even if it were merely symbolic, punishments and warnings were necessary.
In an organization of hundreds or thousands, clear rewards and punishments are fundamental for efficient operation.
Perhaps out of respect for their leader, subordinates might refrain from speaking up, but the seeds of hidden resentments would still be planted in their hearts.
Liu Yu had many experiences leading teams; he began with little understanding, but over time, he gradually became familiar with the process.
"Your performance has been noted. The preliminary preparations were indeed done well," he stated.
"You cannot place the blame for the failure of this operation solely on yourself."
He said this affirmatively, first acknowledging Tian Xiaoyu's performance.
However, shifting his tone, he continued:
"As the supervisor of this operation, you must bear responsibility for its ultimate failure, which is an inescapable duty."
"Given your performance, I will deduct three years’ salary as a form of punishment."
"Are you satisfied with this?"
His flat tone and words held a weight of authority that made Tian Xiaoyu's heart tremble involuntarily.
"I accept the punishment willingly!"
"I will ensure that future operations will be better."
Hearing that the punishment was not too severe and that she had not been completely abandoned, Tian Xiaoyu let out a sigh of relief.
She bent to accept her guilt and did not dare to rise, her attitude reflecting solemnity, but internally, she felt bitter.
Three years' salary was a significant amount for her, an ordinary loose cultivator who lacked expertise in easily earning spiritual stones. Most of her income came from the organization.
This punishment would severely reduce her earnings over the next three years, which was undoubtedly a heavy blow for someone preparing to overcome the core formation bottleneck.
"Well, for the summary of this operation, write a report and submit it to me tomorrow."
"Dismissed."
Liu Yu waved his hand.
Regardless of the outcome of the operation, as the helmsman, he bore no responsibility.
If the operation succeeded, it would surely reflect his capable leadership.
If it failed, then it was obviously the fault of his subordinates.
No matter the facts, the authority of the higher-ups must not be challenged.
Subordinates who admitted their mistakes without attempting to shirk responsibility were something Liu Yu appreciated.
Such behavior and acknowledgment of fault prevented him from completely dismissing her due to a single failure.
"Understood, I take my leave!"
After bowing, Tian Xiaoyu turned and walked slowly out of the pavilion.
Once outside, her true feelings emerged on her face as she let out a soft sigh, her expression downcast.
She had originally hoped to successfully win over a Golden Core Family and gain the captain’s favor through this achievement, but instead, it had ended poorly.