Genshin Impact, I'm Slime

"All right."

Ke Qing closed her notebook, the crisp sound signaling the end of the evaluation process.

"Let's make a simple summary based on what we see now."

"First of all, Qianwei, your insight is truly remarkable. The many strategies proposed in the plan are insightful and often pinpoint the crux of the matter. This insight is invaluable."

Ke Qing's tone shifted slightly, tinged with regret, and her assessment was incisive.

"But he was also like a solitary peak, proud and rugged, and extremely stubborn in his actions."

"More importantly, he seems to be so engrossed in his grand plans that he lacks empathy for the feelings of those around him, which could become a hidden danger in governance."

Ke Qing shook her head slightly, clearly no longer considering the possibility of Qian Wei taking over as Tian Shu Star.

"Next is Mingbo. His planning style is completely different from Qianwei's. It is more comprehensive and thorough, taking a step-by-step approach and emphasizing stability."

"From his words, one can see that he is an extremely meticulous person, especially skilled at refining details, and often has unexpected flashes of brilliance."

"But he went to the other extreme, being too introverted and not good at speaking. In situations where communication or even arguing is required, he appeared too weak and lacked presence."

Ke Qing frowned slightly, clearly not very satisfied with Mingbo either.

"Now that you mention it, it seems to be true... Qianwei is like a sharp-edged stone, while Mingbo is as gentle as water but lacks strength... As expected of Keqing, you see things very clearly!"

Paimon stroked his chin thoughtfully, then nodded excitedly.

Keqing was not distracted by Paimon's praise, but instead turned her gaze to the direction where Zhiyi had left.

Finally, there is Zhiyi.

"His planning document is far more detailed than others. The strategies he proposed are both forward-looking and practical. What is even more remarkable is the breadth of his knowledge, which covers almost every aspect of Liyue's operation."

Ke Qing's tone was clearly approving, and she tapped the notebook in her hand again with her fingertip to emphasize it.

"To achieve this level is not something that can be accomplished by superficial observation or cursory study; it must have required unimaginable hard work and research behind the scenes."

"He is humble and gentle in nature, and his manners in dealing with people are appropriate, with no obvious flaws."

At this point, Ke Qing paused for a moment, a deeper thought flashing in her eyes.

"What really interests me is that many of his core ideas and governance approaches in his plan are in line with, or even coincide with, Uncle Tian's governing philosophy."

"If Zhiyi can successfully take over, it will surely make Uncle Tian feel most gratified and at ease. This is perhaps a rare kind of succession."

A faint smile curved at the corners of Ke Qing's lips.

"That's great! Shall we go back now and tell Uncle Tian the good news?"

Paimon happily twirled in the air.

"Okay, let's go and report the findings to Uncle Tian."

Ke Qing stood up decisively, her clothes fluttering in the breeze.

Li'an, who was in charge of receiving guests, dismissed the three candidates who were still waiting outside, telling them to return and await the selection results. Keqing, the Traveler, and Famas's group went straight back to the terrace of the Tea House on the Rock through the back door. The afterglow of the setting sun bathed Liyue Harbor in a warm golden hue, and a gentle breeze carried the unique, moist scent of the harbor.

Uncle Tian lay on a bamboo chair with his eyes slightly narrowed, looking as if he had been enjoying a leisurely afternoon at the Yanshang Tea House. But Ke Qing knew that, given Uncle Tian's personality, it would be difficult for him to rest.

During their absence, Uncle Tian probably met with many people through his own channels and handed over matters related to his work on Tian Shu Star.

Famas remained indifferent, leaning lazily against the carved railing of the terrace, showing no concern for the results Keqing presented to Uncle Tian.

In his view, Keqing clearly did not have the same ability to observe people as Yelan, and if nothing unexpected happened, it was already a foregone conclusion that Zhiyi would become the next Liyue Tian Shu Star.

"Cough cough... um."

"The result was pretty much what I expected."

Uncle Tian cleared his slightly hoarse throat, and after listening to Ke Qing's well-organized report, a gentle smile appeared on his face as expected.

But Ke Qing stepped forward, her purple eyes fixed on Tian Shu Star, and asked directly:

"Uncle Tian, ​​if I may be so bold, many of the ideas in Zhiyi's planning coincide with your philosophy. Is this just a coincidence, or is there another reason?"

Famas knew that Zhiyi was Tianshu's student, but Keqing and the Traveler did not.

As Yuheng asked the question, the Traveler and Paimon both looked at Uncle Tian.

Faced with Ke Qing's doubts, Uncle Tian slowly picked up the slightly warm teacup on the table, took a sip to moisten his throat, and a hint of relief appeared in his eyes:
"When I gave you the list of candidates, there were some things I couldn't say outright for fear of influencing your independent judgment, but now I can say them."

He put down his teacup and gently swept his gaze over the crowd.

“Those three young men, Qianwei, Mingbo, and Zhiyi, all studied under me for a period of time. Spending so much time together, it’s only natural that their ways of thinking have picked up some of my influence.”

"It's just that Qianwei is focused on the business world and his energy is scattered; Mingbo is rooted in the tedious affairs of the General Affairs Department and it is also difficult for him to devote himself to research. Only Zhiyi, this child... has spent the most time by my side, listened the most, and observed the most carefully."

Uncle Tian's tone was clearly affectionate, indicating that his feelings for Zhiyi were deeper than for the other two.

"Wow! Uncle Tian, ​​how did you meet them?"

Paimon's curiosity was instantly ignited, and he leaned his little head closer.

"Qianwei was introduced by a long-time friend; Mingbo, on the other hand, I discovered by chance while handling official business that he was meticulous and had potential."

"As for Zhiyi... Haha, it's like an unexpected fate. At first, we were just fishing buddies who met by chance at the dock. He was quiet, and I wasn't talkative either. A rod and a pot of tea were enough to while away half a day. As time went on, we gradually started to talk about current affairs and people's livelihoods."

Mentioning Zhiyi, Uncle Tian's weathered face broke into a smile full of memories, his gaze becoming distant, filled with the tenderness of an elder.

"Zhiyi comes from a poor family and lost his parents at a young age. He has suffered a lot, but what is rare is that he is insightful and extremely talented. No matter what he learns, he can grasp it immediately and can apply what he has learned to other situations."

"Looking at him often reminds me of my own student days when I was young, so when I'm not fishing, I can't help but give him a few pointers. He always understands perfectly and makes rapid progress."

Uncle Tian sighed softly, his tone a mixture of relief and emotion.

"It sounds...more like family."

The traveler spoke softly, revealing a warmth that transcended the bond between teacher and student. (End of Chapter)