"Che Qingtian, was it? You wish to challenge for the position of city lord?" Elder Wuming looked at Che Qingtian with a dark expression and asked in a low voice.
"This is not something you can decide. We can discuss it once your city lord comes out of seclusion," Che Qingtian said unhurriedly.
"If you want to challenge our city lord, first pass the Heavenly Mechanism Three Trials," Elder Fu snapped.
"The Heavenly Mechanism Three Trials?" Che Qingtian raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued.
"Heavenly Mechanism City will set three trials, each guarded by an elder. You will likewise send three people to attempt them. Win two of the trials, and you will be considered to have passed," Elder Fu said.
"Fine, but what are the rewards and penalties after winning the three trials? Surely you don't expect us to fight for nothing." Che Qingtian glanced to either side and spread his hands.
"If you win... you may join Heavenly Mechanism City's Council of Elders and take part in its decisions," Elder Wuming said after a pause.
"Heh, the Council of Elders? What use is that council? What I want is the position of Heavenly Mechanism City's lord!" Che Qingtian said with a laugh.
"Once you join the Council of Elders and become a presiding elder, you will be qualified to challenge the city lord. If you don't dare, then leave as you please. We won't see you out," Elder Wuming said slowly.
"Very well. I agree," Che Qingtian said after a moment's consideration.
"You dare agree without even asking what the contests involve?" Elder Wuming asked with a frown.
"You cannot beat us in Puppetcraft." There was no arrogance in Che Qingtian's expression. He spoke calmly, as though stating something perfectly self-evident.
"Hmph. A band of barbarians wandering abroad, yet