Chapter 4: Mining
The Iron Dragon Mother glanced at the two foolish whelps staring blankly at each other. From Garoth's words and gaze, she understood his intentions clearly. However, the Iron Dragon Mother had no intention of intervening. Among her offspring, unless matters escalated to life-or-death situations, she wouldn't interfere with ordinary bullying or oppression.
Moreover, these two whelps spent their days eating her food and lazing around her territory without contributing anything useful. It was high time they did something productive. As for forcing whelps or young dragons to mine for her, the Iron Dragon Mother couldn't bring herself to do it. Despite her cruel nature, she adhered strictly to her own code of conduct. But if Garoth wanted to do it, that was perfectly reasonable.
"The problem is, your 'mining slaves' also live under my protection," the Iron Dragon Mother said, her eyes gleaming as she gently swayed her tail.
Under her piercing gaze, the red-iron hybrid young dragon immediately responded, "I'll provide you with an additional ten-pound lump of precious metal ore every month."
"Agreed." After a few seconds of silent consideration, the Iron Dragon Mother nodded in approval.
"Thank you, Mother. If there's nothing else, I'll take my leave now."
"Go. Attend to your business."
Garoth turned and approached the two whelps, stopping abruptly before them. "Samantha, Gordon," he called out, narrowing his eyes at the Red Dragon Sister and Iron Dragon Brother. "Come with me."
Both dragons eyed him warily, refusing to move. "What do you want?" they demanded.