The problem is that there is no viable alternative to crx.
I hate being fashion Hitlers private Gestapo as much as the next guy but there is simply nothing else.
Gu Tai involves a marriage Ling Qi doesnt want. She didnt even want the interview. Otherwise, exploring ancient ruins for loot and knowledge, part Tomb Raider part Magos Explarator part Monster Hunter sounds awesome. If they had offered to adopt us or even better simply offered a normal vassal pledge, I believe this option would lead.
The Bai option is straight out. If not for our sake than at the very least for the sake of Meizhen.
And the sect/empire hasnt offered anything beyond being a debtslave until our student loan is picked up. No wonder they havent produced anything worthwhile in a while, the greatest Clans seem to have first pick of talented minor / non-nobles disciples, approaching the most talented early when their loyalty is fairely cheap.
Waiting till green or till after getting into the inner sect, meaning till a disciple is proven, is a low risk approach that ensures that the sect wont waste any ressources on a failure, however, as CRXs tactic shows, risks other factions calling dibs. When we turn green and we are offered a position we will be talking to a total rando, who never cared for us before and is now pitted against the offer from a girl for whom we fought and bled ((and stole) a lot) and who invested in us for month, both in ressources and personal time.
Tldr,
We are most likely become Crxs vassel, not because we like the job so much but because we are dont have any other viable alternative.
Conclusion, the empire needs a fucking HR department.
In real world terms:
CRX invests in vocational training, recruitment scholarships, therefore investing in her own future with people like Gan and us.
The sect and empire waits for their unicorn. The extremely dedicated and efficient guy with a masters degree and 8 years of relevant work experience who desires nothing, absolutely nothing, more than to fill an entry level position in your company. (people like fu and medic su)
(crafting su is likely going to go hermit)