Chapter 5
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Avoid Fraudulent Exchanges
Remember the old Halfling saying, "If it sounds
too good to be true, it probably is"?
You might come across someone who wants to sell you something with JUST the qualities you
are looking for, at a good price. Stop first, though, and go through these steps.
A. Always examine the item. LOOK at it first, then APPRAISE it. You want to be able to
eyeball your purchase, as well as look at it closely enough to ascertain that it does what
the seller claims it does. The person may be hesitant to give you the item to appraise it,
since they do not know you. Ask them to show you the item while they hold it in
their right handt. You can then APPRAISE the ITEM in the PERSON's hand without having to
possess it.
First look at it to ascertain whether it is in good condition or needs repairs. Then
appraise it.
The appraisal will tell you more or less what the item is worth, but more importantly, you
will be able to see the qualities of the item, like the sharpness of a blade, or the
amount of protection for a piece of armor.
B. Make your purchase in an area where you cannot be pickpocketed. The bank window
is a favorite place to suggest that you move to once the terms of the bargain have been
agreed on. After all, you do not keep any extra money on you anyway, smart consumer that
you are, and you need to withdraw it.
C. Never give someone the coins or the item first. Never. I do not care what their
story is why they must have it first. Just do not do it. If they tell you they have
a debt and cannot barter the sale, inform them that they should be able to.
D. Use BARTER to make the exchange. If you BARTER for the purchase of an item, or
the exchange of items, the transfer of the money and item is made simultaneously. This
prevents someone from taking your money and not giving you the item, or taking your item
and not giving you the money. |