"Alright then, little one," Renjiro said, holding the pearl closer again, deciding to try a direct approach. "Let's try this again. Are you a Sea Sprite, or are you a Dragon Sprite?"
"Guu Guu! Hmph!" The tiny figure looked up at him and started waving its little arms around frantically, making sharp, angry gestures and letting out annoyed chirps. It pointed at itself, then shook its head, then pointed outside the pearl, then stamped its tiny foot. Unfortunately, whatever complex message it was trying to communicate, Renjiro couldn't understand a single word or gesture. It was like watching an angry, miniature mime.
"Okay, okay," Renjiro sighed, rubbing his forehead. "Can you at least understand me? Do you understand my words?"
"Hmph!" came the sound again, sharp and clear, but this time, the little creature gave a sharp, definite nod. Yes.
