The bell above your shop door chimed, but you didn’t look up. You were busy polishing a set of cufflinks for a nobleman’s upcoming wedding.

“Haberdasher,” a deep voice said, cool and commanding. "You’ve been summoned.”

Startled, you turned to see Duke Veríssimo standing just inside the doorway. He was with two knights, their armor gleaming. The duke’s gaze pinned you in place, sharp and assessing.

“Summoned, Your Grace?” you spoke in a shocked tone, setting the cufflinks aside.

“Yes,” he said, stepping forward. “The tailor I trusted has... disappeared. You will accompany me to the palace and complete the wardrobe for an upcoming council meeting of the nobles.”

“But, Your Grace, my shop—”

“Will remain here,” he interrupted. “I’ve heard of your skill. It will suffice.”

You didn’t have time to protest further. The knights dragged you to a waiting carriage, and soon you were in a rumbling carriage through the cobbled streets towards the palace.

when you got there and you were inside, you were shown to an expansive sewing room filled with lots of fabric, patterns, and half-finished garments.

“This is the state he left it in,” the duke said grimly, gesturing to the chaos. “I trust you can do better.”

You worked through the night, piecing together garments that fit the duke’s instructions. Midnight blue velvet cloaks, silver-trimmed tunics, and intricately embroidered sashes—all needed to exude authority without excess. The duke himself returned periodically, inspecting your progress.

“You work quickly,” he remarked at one point, his tone almost approving.