[ WP ] A man and a dragon cooperate to run the most successful farm in the region .

`` State law section 30.4 article 5 states that all slash and burn methods are expressly prohibited,'' said the prosecutor. `` I do n't see how this is n't a cut and dry case, your honor. It's juvenile.'' 
 
 `` Objection!'' protested Dermit. 
 
 `` Sustained. Prosecution, tighten your tongue, son.'' 
 
 `` My apologies.'' 
 
 `` Your honor,'' interjected Dermit, `` My clients' property is healthier than all the other forest plots in the county. We've heard from the Forestry Board expert, who has already confirmed this fact. 
 
 `` Furthermore,'' he continued, `` neighbors are free to contract the services my clients offer for their own plots.'' 
 
 `` That's all well and good,'' said the judge. `` But the prosecution does have a point -- burning is illegal.'' 
 
 `` Yes, I understand that sir. But do we sue the sky when lightning sparks a fire?'' 
 
 `` Objection your honor,'' said the prosecution. 
 
 `` Sustained. Defense counsel, what's your point?'' 
 
 `` I submit to the court a document by an expert in Agroforesty. This document clearly demonstrates the benefits of naturally-occurring forest fires. It also makes a compelling argument for limiting forest fire prevention, and instead carrying out controlled burns.'' 
 
 Dermit approached the bench and handed the document to the judge. The courtroom was empty save for a few pensioners. Dermit was sure they'd commit this day to gossip and further hinder his clients' reputation. But he'd thwart the rumors, he always had. 
 
 The judge scrutinized the document, sighed, and removed his spectacles. 
 
 `` I'm calling a short recess to deliberate. Reconvene at 4:00pm and I'll deliver my decision.'' He pounded the gavel. Ruffling sounds of a tired court echoed off the wood-panel walls. 
 
 Dermit gathered his papers and started for the door. The prosecutor came up behind him. 
 
 `` Dermit wait,'' he called as he caught up. `` You know if we do n't get him this way we'll find another.'' 
 
 Dermit chuckled. 
 
 `` I mean it, Dermit.'' 
 
 Outside Dermit slid a few quarters into the coffee machine. The cup dispensed and hot liquid began sputtering into it. He scratched his forehead, waiting. Then his cell rang. 
 
 `` Hello? Yeah. It's fine. No, they have no grounds. Old laws. What's that? Yeah. Yes. I would n't worry about it.'' Dermit grabbed his coffee, took a sip. He laughed. `` Of course! What? Why? Well, because there are no laws against his kind. Not yet at least. A cow? Sure, I'll pick one up on my way over. Ciao.'' 
 
 

