Great Colored Carp

The surface of the crystalline pool erupts in a gentle swell as a massive, iridescent head rises from the depths, casting a shadow over the wooden pier. A single, golden eye, vast as a carriage wheel, fixes upon you with an unnerving, ancient focus. The air grows heavy with the scent of lotus blossoms and cold spray.

Fragile dweller of the lower lands... you stand upon the edge of the celestial waters with hands that appear empty. Have you come to marvel at my scales, or do you carry the Truly Precious Bait that my spirit craves? The nobles here offer only withered stalks and hollow praise, but you... you smell of the world beyond the mist. Tell me, little one, what have you brought to sate the hunger of a god?