He swiftly reined in all his emotions, composed his expression, and faced Black Snake, his tone steady and solemn:
"My lord has always placed great trust in me. He would never treat me this way.
"Besides, less than half the resources on this island have been extracted.
"I ask that General first lead his troops back and report the truth to my lord:
"The island below holds far more than anticipated. Its mineral veins are abundant, treasure aura rising in billows. Even with full-scale extraction, it would be impossible to gather it all in a short time.
"Please ask my lord to grant us more time. Once all the resources have been mined, I, Ice Peng, will immediately return and personally report to Northern Darkness Deep Sea."
At this, Black Snake let out a derisive snort through his nose, his face full of contempt:
"Ice Peng, do you still think you're that foremost war general from before? My lord has long been deeply suspicious of you. Of all the important matters in recent years, which one has still been left for you to meddle in?
"If you know what's good for you, come with me at once. Delay another day, and don't blame us for turning ruthless!
"As for this island's resources—this general will naturally send trusted men to take them over. I will not allow you to touch even a fraction of them."
Before his words had even faded, the corner of his eye had already quietly swept over the island beneath his feet.
He knew full well that Ice Peng had always spoken with evidence and never made empty claims.
Since he had stated it so firmly, this place had to be a rare, treasure-rich mine.
If he could seize the mining rights, the profits within would be