4
Discretion is the better part of valour. You retreat from the traps and head off in search of the promised caravan, stalking the mangrove swamps near Igrylligus. After two days of searching, you spot it about half a day's journey (at the caravan's rate, anyhow) from Igrylligus. Following your previous intent, you present yourself openly.
5
You leap and use your wings to glide gracefully into a landing before the caravan, to give the impression of having flown here. You spread your silvery wings so that they catch the morning sunlight and rest back on your haunches, raising your head and giving them a small, regal nod.
"Greetings, human travellers," you say, displaying a number of shimmering teeth in a grin. "Welcome to the Bitter Swamps. I understand you are traders, correct?"
'Human' is not entirely accurate, your memories inform you. While what appear to be the two merchants leading the caravan of four heavily laden horses are human, as are most of the guards, a pair of the caravan guards are shorter and far hairier than the rest, both sporting bushy beards. Your memories fill in the name 'dwarves' for this pair.
In any case, the traders and their guard seem startled and shocked by your arrival (as well they should), but they seem neither entirely surprised nor are they bending their knees in supplication. After gaping for a few seconds, one of the humans speaks up.
"Ah, uh, greetings, o mighty dragon! We thank you for your welcome to these lands, having heard of your glory!"
You overhear one of the guards muttering to another: "Wait, isn't the dragon supposed to be dead? That's what those villagers said."
"We are indeed traders," the trader continues, "I am Jenassa of Drei, and this is my wife and partner Vela and our guard. We hope that we offer no disrespect by passing through your territory unannounced, we knew not where to properly announce ourselves."
"I prefer my privacy," you demur, pleased by the mild flattery. "But you have done well to announce yourself now. It is on the matter of trade I wish to speak with you."
Indeed, what do you wish to discuss? (Select one or more topics.)
A) "I require salves or ointments to heal injuries, as well as a tonic to restore lost vigour."
B) "What are you trading here, and what do you seek to gain?"
C) "I seek a more permanent trade arrangement; the regular supply of certain wares, especially food, in exchange for certain valuables."
D) "Let us discuss the matter of your toll. After all, these are my lands you pass through."
E) "Tell me of your lands. Where is Drei? From where do you hail? Where do you travel next?"
F) "Do you trade in slaves or prisoners as well? I could do with some minions."
G) Any other questions or topics you might wish to raise.