An ancient bell suddenly rang out across the land.
Its peal seemed to come from the distant past, carrying the weight and age of bygone eras as it swept far and wide.
Sound waves rippled across the vast plaza, and everyone they reached felt their hearts and minds tremble.
"The time has come. Let the ceremony begin..."
As the solemn announcement rang out, the entire plaza fell silent, and every gaze converged on its center.
The ceremony officially began. It was presided over by Elder Tong Xuan of the Gu Clan.
He wore a simple, ancient robe whose sleeves fluttered in the breeze. With his air of transcendent grace, he radiated an aura that inspired awe.
When Xun Er heard the announcement, determination appeared on her face.
She turned to bid farewell to Xiao Yan and Yao Chen first. Her eyes were full of reluctance, but even more so with anticipation and resolve for the test ahead.
"Brother Xiao Yan, Teacher, wait for me to come back."
Xun Er spoke softly, then moved with light, graceful steps toward the testing area.
Her graceful figure looked especially captivating in the sunlight, and every step she took was elegant and composed.
Before Xun Er, several Gu Clan members took their turns stepping forward to prepare for the test.
Some looked nervous, some confident, while others feigned composure, but all of their eyes betrayed their anticipation for the results.
The first clan member drew a deep breath and slowly placed his hand on the Star Disk at the center.
In an instant, the entire plaza fell utterly silent. Everyone stared fixedly at the Star Disk.
The Star Disk gave a faint tremor. A few glimmers of light flickered, then turned into scattered points of brightness.
There were not many, however. On closer count,