This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Neya observes how Doozey responds to such a question in the guise of a challenge. There have been times in the past in which questions of a similar nature have asked of her, sometimes from herself.
She then mentally reminds herself that now is not the time for such meditation.
The creature nods in recognition that the halfling had the help of his capable companions in reaching this far. "Doozey Redfoot. I shall remember that name." Turning to sniff the air around everyone else in turn, the dragon adds: "And what are each of you called, brave rescuers of little girls in danger?"
Doozey's fleeing tear does not go unnoticed, though it goes unmentioned. After listening to the halfling's next arguments, the creature adds: "Even if what you say is true and you intend not to lead her back to that despicable isle, I shall not release her. She is to remain under my watch for a while longer. On the day after her birthday, if you so wish, you may come back to collect the girl. Not before."
Doozey:
If your suspicions are right and this creature is indeed a dragon, you judge that it cannot be a fully grown one yet. You heard these legendary creatures can become gargantuan in size, but this strange specimen in front of you cannot be larger than a couple long carriages put together. This is not to say this unique beast is not dangerous. You sense it being quite confident in its battle prowess.
Utar:
If Doozey's guess is right and this creature is indeed a dragon, then you know from previous studies that dragons are generally classified into two categories. Chromatic dragons are fearsome treasure hoarders who do not hesitate in enacting carnage. Metallic dragons are usually subjects of Bahamut, the deity known as the Platinum Dragon. Though they enjoy their treasures just as much as their more evil brethren, they usually initially favor a diplomatic approach to their interactions with other species. The shiny scales on this creature in front of you, though quite colorful, do have a metal-like appearance to them, much like those of some fish.
Neya:
You try to get a hint of what this creature is getting at but you feel you need more information before arriving at a conclusion. If the group can keep it talking, you might just be able to get a read on it.
Graxx:
This creature is more talkative than you expected but you have a feeling it might lunge at the party at any moment. Your sword seems to agree.
Doozey frowned; not in any apparent disbelief, but more so out of some lingering dissatisfaction at the answer. Even confident though he was now about the nature of the draconic creature, one thing -- two things continued to nag at the back of his mind. So without a missing beat, he said,"Your request be a fair and generous one; especially given the invasion of your home. But be that as it may, there are lot -- a few, at least questions we would like answered, if only for a peace of mind. And if not that, perhaps we even be of aid. As those crones on the islands have already made it clear their intent to 'pray' for her return."
His frown deepens for a moment, as he thought back to the almost shapeless masses the group fought beside. "... And thrice over now, we've seen and felt their peculiar brand of magic at work. So know its not something to be taken lightly. So, if you could tell us more about what's going on exactly? Why is lil' Eli's birthday is of import? And when would it be?"
"I am Neya of the People of the Silent Wood." Neya introduces herself to the metallic being before her.
She then turns to Doozey.
"I do not believe that exact date of Eli's birthday is what's important. Instead, it is more the length of time between now and then.Time enough for us consider what would be best for her, perhaps?"
"That also brings up a question. While I wasn't there for part of your conversation with the crones, did they bring up any sort of specific time limit?"
Waiting for the stoutling to finish his words, Utar can't help but feel, well, out of place next to their fine word hoards.
Clearing his throat, he nods his head in deference to the dragon.
"Apologies for my, uh transgression earlier. My name is Utar Hammerhand. The last part is... It's not important. Um, could we see the girl before we leave? I think we'd like to say goodbye to her. I'm not sure there are many on the island that would say the same."
Doozey makes a show raising and lowering his hands before himself like parts of a counter weight scale to Neya, then a cups a hand by his mouth. "They were insistent upon her swift retrieval, and even going so far as to pray. Which given the sorta lengths they need to go for some of their magics, it seemed rather Sus, to say the least, Miss Neya." He curtly stage whispered to her, prior to turning back to the draconic creature with an apologetic bow.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx steps up and places a fist to his chest. He proudly states...
"I am Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe from the Spine of the World." says Graxx.
As Graxx says Sky Pony his mind flashes back to the earlier battle and the battle yet to come. He does not want to anger this creature. He steps back and keeps his grip on his sword.
"Doozey of the Redfoot Clan, Neya of the People of the Silent Wood, Utar Hammerhand, and Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe," the creature says slowly and measurably as it takes the time to sniff the air around each CRAPer. "I shall remember each of those names."
Recoiling its long neck, it then makes a proposition: "If information is what you need, and a chance to speak to the girl perhaps, then we shall negotiate. Are you in the position to bargain for the two recent shipwrecks out at sea. I could claim them and whatever is to be found inside as my own but I much rather have the certainty of a well struck agreement. If the answer is a negative, then what alternative offer can you bring to the negotiation table? What say you, Doozey of the Redfoot Clan, Neya of the People of the Silent Wood, Utar Hammerhand, and Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe?"
Edit for Doozey:
The matching set of statuettes you found in the Audacity are well carved and clearly hold some value. One depicts a well-fed lady holding an upside-down scythe, while the other depicts this same lady holding a basket of apples and grain. They seem to have a minor enchantment that helps avoid the effects of time (meaning the statuettes themselves don't decay or crack or break due to being old). However, even this little magical trick feels quite weak and faint now. They are each set with semi-precious stones and you gather some specialized collectors may be willing to pay close to 100gp for each of them.
Doozey couldn't help but look at the others as each are named one by one. Seeing Graxx so tense still however, he started to open his mouth to speak, only to slam in shut out of desire to not be rude. "More cunning 'alflings than me would agree to this deal whole-heartedly, despite knowing those things to be of the sort any could claim with the mind for it." He confesses, wishing to keep things honest.
"As it stands however, we have no claim on them, or whatever still be on board. Consider it a gift if you wish, considering by most right of conquest, they be ours on some level at least... More than that... eto... hm... I do have this flask of holy water, and the stories of my travels, if'n those be fair trade in this sorta of thinig. More than that... I cannot say."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Utar rubs a hand over the back of his neck, hoping his question isn't taken the wrong way. Benign or not, diminutive or not, he is still stood before a dragon.
"I'm afraid you have us at a disadvantage. You know our names. We would like to know yours, if you would give it?"
Aware that his manners might be doubted, Utar shows interest in knowing the creature's name. It responds: "You gave me your full names, so I shall give you mine. A fair trade." The creature stands taller and prouder: "I am Derannos, the Bronzen Wave Crest of the Stormy Bay."
Satisfied with its own introduction, the creature jumps back into negotiations. It addresses Doozey at first, but it makes sure to then exchange eye contact with Graxx, Neya, and Utar in turn as it speaks: "Right of conquest... an interesting proposition;" the creature looks pensive. "I respect that concept. However, since none of you seem too convinced of its credibility to begin with, I'll have to ask your offer be increased somewhat. I promise you the information I hold and a chance to see the girl before you leave. In return, you give me your word that whatever claim the four of you have on the shipwrecks by right of conquest is passed on to me. You'll also improve your offer further... and no, petty items and bonfire stories are not acceptable." The creature would smile at this point if it could. "We almost have a deal. What else can you offer to bring the scale's plates even?"
Doozey:
These statuettes are very old and certainly were first sculpted in some distant-in-time civilization. If you had to guess, you'd say maybe Turmish in make, but you can't be sure. You are no expert in such matters. You wish you knew a bit more so that you could try to use that knowledge come bargaining time.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Doozey raised a brow at the counter demand. But after a moment of thinking, he had to nod at least somewhat reluctantly in agreement. "Fair enough, Mr. Derannos, fair enough. Now let me think...." The stoutling stroked his chin in deep thought, nodding his head every once in a while. Eventually, the head goes up with a gasp, before tiny fingers probed pockets with all the grace of a bull handling fine china. In time he realizes he needed to stop probing the same ones, and finally check a back pouch.
Though a bolt or two eventually clatters to the ground in the process alongside a halfling swear made underbreathe, Doozey eventually produces the small statues scooped up from 'The Audacity' and presents them. Before addressing the dragon, at any odd or disapproving looks he promptly says, "Din't mean to be hold'n out on ya. Only got a chance last night to even look them over, and plum forgot about'em fer a good while there."
Then he looks back to the creature and said, "I be figuring if anyone can appreciate these old things, it'd be a Dragon -- No, a being like yourself. And by old, I mean really hold by halfling standards at least, Turmish make, and with an enchantment on them to keep the wear and tear down. Perfect for a home like this.... So, will these even the scales?"
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Utar is content to let Doozey do the talking again, but uses the time to try to recall anything he can about Derannos, Bronzen Wave Crest of the Stormy Bay. Though, given the fresh, dull pain the developing at back of his skull, he doesn't hold out much hope.
"This is capable of allowing the user to understand all tongues and text as if they were their own. Something that a previous owner and I know from experience."
She holds it out, "I know the value of knowing what is happening around me. I'm certain this can aid you know the goings on in your realm all the more."
Graxx keeps one hand on his favorite Greatsword and he struggles a bit as it's meant to be two handed but reaches behind him and pulls out his Moon-Touched Sword, Greatsword and holds it in front of him.
"This is Lightbreaker. It has lit my path through the darkness and cut down many enemies. May it serve you now." says Graxx.
Though not too convinced that the halfling would have conveniently forgotten about his treasure up until now, Derannos nods and brings its tail out of the water. "Turmish, you say?" The tail deftly wraps itself around the statuettes without ever touching Doozey's hands. It brings the pieces of art close to its shiny green eyes and spends the next few seconds admiring them. "Yes, enchanted to last. A perfect magical enhancement for a dragon's hoard." It turns back to the party: "However, their value is not in any way astounding. Do not stop now, fellow traders. The scales are almost even."
Already expecting such response, Neya holds up her Helm of Comprehending Languages. Following the monk's explanation, Derannos looks very interested: "Now this is the sort of enchanted item fools risk their lives for. It will be a while before I can wear it myself, but I shall look forward to that day."
Before Derannos has a chance to express whether it is satisfied with the trade at this point, Graxx makes an additional offer in order to make sure a deal is struck promptly. "You spoil me, Sky Pony." Looking intently at the barbarian's other sword, Derannos then adds: "Now, is it you offering this sharp piece of treasure, or is it your other blade?" The dragon (now confirmed) gives Graxx a knowing look before turning to address the entire party: "Very well. Your final offer is accepted. Excuse me for a moment"
Derannos collects all gifts with its tail and dives into the lagoon. A few minutes pass, during which the party is left alone.
(OOC: Feel free to interact while Derannos is gone).
Eventually, Derannos returns. It appears at a distance, swimming swiftly with its adorned head above water. Elisande lays atop it, and the creature gently puts her down on top of a rock formation a bit ways away from the group. You can all see that she is alive but unconscious. A second limp but alive body is also deposited next to Elisande's. It would seem the girl managed to bring a companion with her during her escape. The resourceful little rascal surely had to risk her life in order to bring along the scrawny blind goat with her this far. Derannos speaks: "As you can see, the girl is well, as is her pet. She is unaware of her surroundings for now, and I prefer her condition remains unchanged. I consider this visitation to suffice in terms of half of my side of the trade. If you agree, I shall return her to her abode before delivering on the rest of my promise."
Utar:
While most of this is happening, you chiefly observe and poke your memory. You have never heard of the name Derannos, the Bronzen Wave Crest of the Stormy Bay. You reckon a grandiose name like this would be easy to remember, and the fact that it isn't could mean many things. Among them, and your leading theory at the moment, is that this creature is simply not that well-know just yet. All other hints point out to Derannos being on the younger side (for a dragon, you'd imagine), and perhaps the proud announcement of its own name was partially intended as a way to make itself more notorious and memorable. Another idea you think of is that Derannos could have something to do with some old stories of giant sea serpents you heard at one or two points in the past, though you can't remember if those were specifically connected to the Stormy Bay. Wait, was't there a painting in the cave back in the isle with the villagers offering gold to a giant five-headed sea serpent? Hmm...
Neya observes how Doozey responds to such a question in the guise of a challenge. There have been times in the past in which questions of a similar nature have asked of her, sometimes from herself.
She then mentally reminds herself that now is not the time for such meditation.
Edit: Insight: 7
Extended Signature
History 10
Suitably chastised, Utar lifts his amulet from his neck for the second time today. Placing it in his pack, he clasps his hands in front of him.
Graxx winces and closes his eyes as the tears escape Doozey. He pains for his friend.
Graxx remains silent and focuses on not drawing the anger of this creature.
Insight: 11
The creature nods in recognition that the halfling had the help of his capable companions in reaching this far. "Doozey Redfoot. I shall remember that name." Turning to sniff the air around everyone else in turn, the dragon adds: "And what are each of you called, brave rescuers of little girls in danger?"
Doozey's fleeing tear does not go unnoticed, though it goes unmentioned. After listening to the halfling's next arguments, the creature adds: "Even if what you say is true and you intend not to lead her back to that despicable isle, I shall not release her. She is to remain under my watch for a while longer. On the day after her birthday, if you so wish, you may come back to collect the girl. Not before."
Doozey:
If your suspicions are right and this creature is indeed a dragon, you judge that it cannot be a fully grown one yet. You heard these legendary creatures can become gargantuan in size, but this strange specimen in front of you cannot be larger than a couple long carriages put together. This is not to say this unique beast is not dangerous. You sense it being quite confident in its battle prowess.
Utar:
If Doozey's guess is right and this creature is indeed a dragon, then you know from previous studies that dragons are generally classified into two categories. Chromatic dragons are fearsome treasure hoarders who do not hesitate in enacting carnage. Metallic dragons are usually subjects of Bahamut, the deity known as the Platinum Dragon. Though they enjoy their treasures just as much as their more evil brethren, they usually initially favor a diplomatic approach to their interactions with other species. The shiny scales on this creature in front of you, though quite colorful, do have a metal-like appearance to them, much like those of some fish.
Neya:
You try to get a hint of what this creature is getting at but you feel you need more information before arriving at a conclusion. If the group can keep it talking, you might just be able to get a read on it.
Graxx:
This creature is more talkative than you expected but you have a feeling it might lunge at the party at any moment. Your sword seems to agree.
Doozey frowned; not in any apparent disbelief, but more so out of some lingering dissatisfaction at the answer. Even confident though he was now about the nature of the draconic creature, one thing -- two things continued to nag at the back of his mind. So without a missing beat, he said,"Your request be a fair and generous one; especially given the invasion of your home. But be that as it may, there are lot -- a few, at least questions we would like answered, if only for a peace of mind. And if not that, perhaps we even be of aid. As those crones on the islands have already made it clear their intent to 'pray' for her return."
His frown deepens for a moment, as he thought back to the almost shapeless masses the group fought beside. "... And thrice over now, we've seen and felt their peculiar brand of magic at work. So know its not something to be taken lightly. So, if you could tell us more about what's going on exactly? Why is lil' Eli's birthday is of import? And when would it be?"
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
"I am Neya of the People of the Silent Wood." Neya introduces herself to the metallic being before her.
She then turns to Doozey.
"I do not believe that exact date of Eli's birthday is what's important. Instead, it is more the length of time between now and then.Time enough for us consider what would be best for her, perhaps?"
"That also brings up a question. While I wasn't there for part of your conversation with the crones, did they bring up any sort of specific time limit?"
Extended Signature
Waiting for the stoutling to finish his words, Utar can't help but feel, well, out of place next to their fine word hoards.
Clearing his throat, he nods his head in deference to the dragon.
"Apologies for my, uh transgression earlier. My name is Utar Hammerhand. The last part is... It's not important. Um, could we see the girl before we leave? I think we'd like to say goodbye to her. I'm not sure there are many on the island that would say the same."
Doozey makes a show raising and lowering his hands before himself like parts of a counter weight scale to Neya, then a cups a hand by his mouth. "They were insistent upon her swift retrieval, and even going so far as to pray. Which given the sorta lengths they need to go for some of their magics, it seemed rather Sus, to say the least, Miss Neya." He curtly stage whispered to her, prior to turning back to the draconic creature with an apologetic bow.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx steps up and places a fist to his chest. He proudly states...
"I am Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe from the Spine of the World." says Graxx.
As Graxx says Sky Pony his mind flashes back to the earlier battle and the battle yet to come. He does not want to anger this creature. He steps back and keeps his grip on his sword.
"Doozey of the Redfoot Clan, Neya of the People of the Silent Wood, Utar Hammerhand, and Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe," the creature says slowly and measurably as it takes the time to sniff the air around each CRAPer. "I shall remember each of those names."
Recoiling its long neck, it then makes a proposition: "If information is what you need, and a chance to speak to the girl perhaps, then we shall negotiate. Are you in the position to bargain for the two recent shipwrecks out at sea. I could claim them and whatever is to be found inside as my own but I much rather have the certainty of a well struck agreement. If the answer is a negative, then what alternative offer can you bring to the negotiation table? What say you, Doozey of the Redfoot Clan, Neya of the People of the Silent Wood, Utar Hammerhand, and Graxx of the Sky Pony Tribe?"
Edit for Doozey:
The matching set of statuettes you found in the Audacity are well carved and clearly hold some value. One depicts a well-fed lady holding an upside-down scythe, while the other depicts this same lady holding a basket of apples and grain. They seem to have a minor enchantment that helps avoid the effects of time (meaning the statuettes themselves don't decay or crack or break due to being old). However, even this little magical trick feels quite weak and faint now. They are each set with semi-precious stones and you gather some specialized collectors may be willing to pay close to 100gp for each of them.
Doozey couldn't help but look at the others as each are named one by one. Seeing Graxx so tense still however, he started to open his mouth to speak, only to slam in shut out of desire to not be rude. "More cunning 'alflings than me would agree to this deal whole-heartedly, despite knowing those things to be of the sort any could claim with the mind for it." He confesses, wishing to keep things honest.
"As it stands however, we have no claim on them, or whatever still be on board. Consider it a gift if you wish, considering by most right of conquest, they be ours on some level at least... More than that... eto... hm... I do have this flask of holy water, and the stories of my travels, if'n those be fair trade in this sorta of thinig. More than that... I cannot say."
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Utar rubs a hand over the back of his neck, hoping his question isn't taken the wrong way. Benign or not, diminutive or not, he is still stood before a dragon.
"I'm afraid you have us at a disadvantage. You know our names. We would like to know yours, if you would give it?"
Belated History Check(as discussed in PM): 11.
Persuasion: 10.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Graxx shakes his head.
"I care not for the ships. They are yours." says Graxx.
Aware that his manners might be doubted, Utar shows interest in knowing the creature's name. It responds: "You gave me your full names, so I shall give you mine. A fair trade." The creature stands taller and prouder: "I am Derannos, the Bronzen Wave Crest of the Stormy Bay."
Satisfied with its own introduction, the creature jumps back into negotiations. It addresses Doozey at first, but it makes sure to then exchange eye contact with Graxx, Neya, and Utar in turn as it speaks: "Right of conquest... an interesting proposition;" the creature looks pensive. "I respect that concept. However, since none of you seem too convinced of its credibility to begin with, I'll have to ask your offer be increased somewhat. I promise you the information I hold and a chance to see the girl before you leave. In return, you give me your word that whatever claim the four of you have on the shipwrecks by right of conquest is passed on to me. You'll also improve your offer further... and no, petty items and bonfire stories are not acceptable." The creature would smile at this point if it could. "We almost have a deal. What else can you offer to bring the scale's plates even?"
Doozey:
These statuettes are very old and certainly were first sculpted in some distant-in-time civilization. If you had to guess, you'd say maybe Turmish in make, but you can't be sure. You are no expert in such matters. You wish you knew a bit more so that you could try to use that knowledge come bargaining time.
Doozey raised a brow at the counter demand. But after a moment of thinking, he had to nod at least somewhat reluctantly in agreement. "Fair enough, Mr. Derannos, fair enough. Now let me think...." The stoutling stroked his chin in deep thought, nodding his head every once in a while. Eventually, the head goes up with a gasp, before tiny fingers probed pockets with all the grace of a bull handling fine china. In time he realizes he needed to stop probing the same ones, and finally check a back pouch.
Though a bolt or two eventually clatters to the ground in the process alongside a halfling swear made underbreathe, Doozey eventually produces the small statues scooped up from 'The Audacity' and presents them. Before addressing the dragon, at any odd or disapproving looks he promptly says, "Din't mean to be hold'n out on ya. Only got a chance last night to even look them over, and plum forgot about'em fer a good while there."
Then he looks back to the creature and said, "I be figuring if anyone can appreciate these old things, it'd be a Dragon -- No, a being like yourself. And by old, I mean really hold by halfling standards at least, Turmish make, and with an enchantment on them to keep the wear and tear down. Perfect for a home like this.... So, will these even the scales?"
Persuasion: 9.
When you realize you're doing too much: Signature.
Utar is content to let Doozey do the talking again, but uses the time to try to recall anything he can about Derannos, Bronzen Wave Crest of the Stormy Bay. Though, given the fresh, dull pain the developing at back of his skull, he doesn't hold out much hope.
History 11
Neya goes into her bag and takes out the Helm of Comprehending Languages.
"This is capable of allowing the user to understand all tongues and text as if they were their own. Something that a previous owner and I know from experience."
She holds it out, "I know the value of knowing what is happening around me. I'm certain this can aid you know the goings on in your realm all the more."
Extended Signature
Graxx keeps one hand on his favorite Greatsword and he struggles a bit as it's meant to be two handed but reaches behind him and pulls out his Moon-Touched Sword, Greatsword and holds it in front of him.
"This is Lightbreaker. It has lit my path through the darkness and cut down many enemies. May it serve you now." says Graxx.
Though not too convinced that the halfling would have conveniently forgotten about his treasure up until now, Derannos nods and brings its tail out of the water. "Turmish, you say?" The tail deftly wraps itself around the statuettes without ever touching Doozey's hands. It brings the pieces of art close to its shiny green eyes and spends the next few seconds admiring them. "Yes, enchanted to last. A perfect magical enhancement for a dragon's hoard." It turns back to the party: "However, their value is not in any way astounding. Do not stop now, fellow traders. The scales are almost even."
Already expecting such response, Neya holds up her Helm of Comprehending Languages. Following the monk's explanation, Derannos looks very interested: "Now this is the sort of enchanted item fools risk their lives for. It will be a while before I can wear it myself, but I shall look forward to that day."
Before Derannos has a chance to express whether it is satisfied with the trade at this point, Graxx makes an additional offer in order to make sure a deal is struck promptly. "You spoil me, Sky Pony." Looking intently at the barbarian's other sword, Derannos then adds: "Now, is it you offering this sharp piece of treasure, or is it your other blade?" The dragon (now confirmed) gives Graxx a knowing look before turning to address the entire party: "Very well. Your final offer is accepted. Excuse me for a moment"
Derannos collects all gifts with its tail and dives into the lagoon. A few minutes pass, during which the party is left alone.
(OOC: Feel free to interact while Derannos is gone).
Eventually, Derannos returns. It appears at a distance, swimming swiftly with its adorned head above water. Elisande lays atop it, and the creature gently puts her down on top of a rock formation a bit ways away from the group. You can all see that she is alive but unconscious. A second limp but alive body is also deposited next to Elisande's. It would seem the girl managed to bring a companion with her during her escape. The resourceful little rascal surely had to risk her life in order to bring along the scrawny blind goat with her this far. Derannos speaks: "As you can see, the girl is well, as is her pet. She is unaware of her surroundings for now, and I prefer her condition remains unchanged. I consider this visitation to suffice in terms of half of my side of the trade. If you agree, I shall return her to her abode before delivering on the rest of my promise."
Utar:
While most of this is happening, you chiefly observe and poke your memory. You have never heard of the name Derannos, the Bronzen Wave Crest of the Stormy Bay. You reckon a grandiose name like this would be easy to remember, and the fact that it isn't could mean many things. Among them, and your leading theory at the moment, is that this creature is simply not that well-know just yet. All other hints point out to Derannos being on the younger side (for a dragon, you'd imagine), and perhaps the proud announcement of its own name was partially intended as a way to make itself more notorious and memorable. Another idea you think of is that Derannos could have something to do with some old stories of giant sea serpents you heard at one or two points in the past, though you can't remember if those were specifically connected to the Stormy Bay. Wait, was't there a painting in the cave back in the isle with the villagers offering gold to a giant five-headed sea serpent? Hmm...