Every year after the newcomer test, the Sword Firmament Pavilion would hold a grand event called the Nine Star Contest. As the name implied, it was a competition for newcomers with nine stars. Those who couldn’t obtain nine stars were qualified to compete. They could only be spectators, watching those with nine stars shine brightly on the stage.

This was a personal honor and had implications for potential resources that one could enjoy. An outstanding performance could even attract ...