A New Beginning
Jiang Chen wasn't a man of empty words.
The very next day, a delivery of rare materials arrived at my workshop.... silks that shimmered under the light, threads woven with reinforced qi, and dyes that were usually reserved for sect elders.
Along with them came a message.
"Your first client awaits."
I exhaled slowly.
This wasn't just a job.
It was a statement.
A chance to prove my worth to the Inner Court, or crash and burn.
....
The Client
The meeting was set in a secluded courtyard near the Inner Court.
I expected a disciple.
Instead, I met Madam Lin, a woman in her early forties, dressed in elegant robes with a faint silver embroidery.... a mark of a sect elder's household.
Her eyes studied me carefully.
"You are Lu Tian?" she asked.
I gave a respectful bow. "Yes, Madam Lin."
She nodded slightly.
"My husband, Elder Lin Bao, is to attend a grand sect gathering in two weeks," she said. "I require a robe that reflects his status... but not one that is gaudy or excessive. Subtle power."
I understood immediately.
She didn't want flashy wealth.
She wanted unquestionable authority.
This wasn't just about design.
It was about power dynamics.
.....
The Challenge
"I accept the commission," I said. "Do you have any preferences for fabric or design?"
Madam Lin raised an eyebrow. "You're the designer. Impress me."
A test.
A small smile tugged at my lips.
I liked challenges.
......
Crafting Authority
Back at my workshop, I ran my fingers over the rare silks Jiang Chen had sent me.
Most designers would go for obvious displays, heavy golden embroidery, dragon motifs, bright colors.
Too predictable.
I went the opposite way.
Dark blue silk, deep as the night sky, threaded with faint silver accents... invisible unless caught in the right light.
A design that commanded attention without demanding it.
A robe that whispered, I do not need to prove myself. You already know my worth.
It took days of precise stitching, careful layering, and adjusting the weight just enough so that every movement would flow with natural grace.
When it was finally done…
I knew.
This was my best work yet.
...
The Presentation
I arrived at Madam Lin's courtyard at sunset, the robe carefully wrapped.
She unfolded it slowly.
For a long moment, she said nothing.
Then—a slow nod.
"You understand power," she said.
A servant stepped forward, handing me a small pouch.
I peeked inside.... spirit stones.
Not just a payment.
A gift of recognition.
Before I left, Madam Lin spoke again.
"This will not be our last transaction, Lu Tian."
I bowed. "I look forward to it, Madam Lin."
As I walked away, I could feel it.
I had taken another step.
The Inner Court wasn't just noticing me anymore.
It was beginning to respect me.