The First "Dialectic" with Duobao Daoist

The "Special Invited Researcher" identity token felt warm in his hand, a subtle spiritual energy unique to Biyou Palace contained within its smooth surface. Lin Xuan (Xuanyuanzi) knew this was more than just a title; it was a weighty responsibility and the expectation of Sovereign of the Heavens and the entire Jie Sect leadership. He had to produce tangible results quickly to prove the value of his "Scientific Thinking."

His first priority was to gain the full support of Duobao Daoist, the de facto manager of the Jie Sect. This senior disciple was highly cultivated, capable, and commanded immense prestige within the sect. Gaining his genuine approval would make many things twice as effective with half the effort.

Opportunity arrived swiftly. On the third day after Lin Xuan settled in, Duobao Daoist sent a disciple to invite him, stating he wished to discuss the specific duties of a "Researcher" and the initial direction of his work.

In a side hall of the Shangqing Palace, tea fragrance wafted through the air. Duobao Daoist dismissed his attendants, and he and Lin Xuan sat opposite each other. The atmosphere was less formal than their first meeting, carrying a more pragmatic tone.

"Researcher Xuanyuanzi," Duobao Daoist began, his voice calm yet direct, "your vision is grand and far-reaching, and both my master and I agree with it. However, a blueprint is useless without execution. Sect affairs are complex, and a single move affects the whole. Where do you plan to begin this 'innovation'?" His gaze was clear, scrutinizing yet expectant. This was a test, and an opportunity for Lin Xuan to demonstrate his capabilities.

Lin Xuan was prepared. He calmly took out a blank jade slip and, using his divine sense, sketched out its contents. Moments later, he handed it to Duobao Daoist. "Brother, please take a look. This is my preliminary draft for the 'Jie Sect Affairs Optimization Phase One Pilot Plan'."

Duobao Daoist accepted the jade slip and delved into it with his divine sense. He saw a meticulously organized and clearly laid-out plan:

I. Pilot Objectives: To verify the feasibility of the "Standardization and Modularization" concepts in the refining of low-grade magic treasures and the transmission of basic cultivation methods, thereby increasing efficiency and lowering the barrier to entry.

II. Pilot Scope: Limited to Jin'ao Island, for disciples who have joined the sect for less than a hundred years and whose cultivation is below Refining Essence into Qi (approximately three hundred individuals).

III. Specific Measures:

1. Magic Treasure Refining Pilot: Select the most commonly used low-grade flying sword, the "Qingfeng Sword," as the sample. Deconstruct its refining process into three core modules: "Sword Embryo Casting (Standardized Molds)," "Rune Engraving (Modularized Talisman Arrays)," and "Spiritual Power Infusion (Procedural Guidance)." Design unified, standard sword embryo molds and talisman arrays. Disciples will simply follow the steps and infuse spiritual power to complete basic refining, significantly reducing reliance on individual artifact refining talent.

2. Cultivation Method Transmission Pilot: Select the basic breathing technique, the "Qi Guiding Art." Deconstruct its cultivation essentials into standardized units such as "Posture Guidance," "Breathing Rhythm," and "Mindful Visualization." Create corresponding guiding diagrams, rhythm stones, and visualization charts as auxiliary tools. Disciples can focus on practicing their weaker areas according to their own circumstances, rather than trying to grasp everything at once.

IV. Expected Results: Increase the success rate of magic treasure refining to over eighty percent, and reduce refining time by one-third. Shorten the time required to learn basic cultivation methods by half, and enhance the stability of their foundation.

V. Required Support: Allocate personnel from the Artifact Refining Hall and Merit Transmission Hall to form a project team. Grant Class C Resource Authority for the production of molds and talisman arrays.

The plan was not long, but its structure was clear, its objectives defined, and its measures specific. The application of concepts like "Standardization," "Modularization," and "Proceduralization" particularly impressed Duobao Daoist, a master of management! He keenly perceived that behind these seemingly minor adjustments for low-level disciples lay an entirely new, replicable management philosophy!

However, Duobao Daoist did not immediately agree. Instead, he raised sharp questions, a testament to his pragmatic style: "Researcher, your proposal is excellent in concept. However, I have two concerns: First, wouldn't such 'standardized' refining stifle the disciples' ingenuity in artifact refining? In the long run, it might be difficult to produce artifact refining masters. Second, while basic cultivation methods can be broken down, the profound nature of the Dao lies in enlightenment. Would this 'following the map' approach lead disciples to have stable foundations but lose the opportunity for Dao comprehension?"

This was true "Dialectic"! Not simple agreement or disagreement, but a deep exploration of potential drawbacks.

Lin Xuan had anticipated this. He responded calmly, "Brother's concerns hit the nail on the head. This is precisely the meaning of a 'pilot'! It's not for full implementation. Regarding the first point, standardization is not meant to replace creativity, but to lay a solid foundation. Just as mortal children first learn strokes before wielding a brush. This standardized process aims to enable even those with ordinary talent to grasp the basics of artifact refining, ensuring a minimum standard. At the same time, the plan includes 'custom modules' to encourage talented disciples to explore rune combinations and material ratios on their own after mastering the basics, stimulating their ingenuity. This is 'guaranteeing the floor without capping the ceiling'."

He paused and continued, "As for the second point, enlightenment is indeed important. However, for those just starting on the path, the ethereal concept of 'enlightenment' often leaves them at a loss, leading to frustration. We will first use standardized tools to help them quickly establish Qi Sensation and build a solid foundation. Once they have a foundation, we will gradually guide them to set aside the tools and pursue Divine Intent. This is like learning swimming strokes before diving into the ocean. It's 'establishing rules before seeking to break them'."

Duobao Daoist pondered for a moment, tapping his fingers lightly on the table. He added, "Even if the concept is feasible, the production of these 'standardized molds' and 'modularized talisman arrays' might consume considerable resources. If the results are not satisfactory, wouldn't that be a waste?"

"That's why it's a 'pilot'," Lin Xuan emphasized. "We will verify it on a small scale with low costs. The molds and talisman arrays can be reused. Once proven effective, the cost per disciple will be extremely low, while the overall efficiency gained will be immense. This is 'short-term investment for long-term gain.' Moreover, if successful, these standards can be extended to the refining of other low-grade magic treasures, forming economies of scale, which will further reduce costs."

A glint of admiration flashed in Duobao Daoist's eyes. Lin Xuan's answers were clear and logical. He acknowledged the risks while explaining that they were controllable and that the potential benefits were enormous. This rational approach to weighing risks and rewards suited him well.

"In that case," Duobao Daoist finally nodded, "we will proceed with the pilot according to the Researcher's plan. I will order the Artifact Refining Hall and Merit Transmission Hall to fully cooperate with you in forming the project team. Resource authority will be granted as per the plan." He shifted his tone, his expression serious. "However, during the pilot period, all data must be meticulously recorded, including success rates, time spent, disciple feedback, and any issues encountered. Three months from now, I expect a detailed evaluation report."

"As it should be!" Lin Xuan solemnly agreed. "Data is the sole standard for verifying truth."

"Data... the sole standard..." Duobao Daoist savored the words, his eyes shining brighter. He smiled, "Excellent! Then let us see if the Researcher's 'scientific' methods can take root and flourish in the soil of my Jie Sect!"

The first "Dialectic" concluded in a pragmatic and efficient atmosphere. Although Duobao Daoist was not entirely at ease, he had granted Lin Xuan his full trust and a platform. For Lin Xuan, this was not just the beginning of his work, but also a valuable opportunity to integrate modern project management thinking with the realities of the Primordial Era.

The seeds of theory had been sown. Now, it was time to let them blossom and bear fruit through sweat and wisdom.