Primarily used this project as a guide, also based on the linked pattern:
https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Bucketfox/dragon-egg-dic...
https://www.ravelry.com/projects/Bucketfox/dragon-egg-dic...

I’m considering this finished for now and will figure out how to put in a liner at a later date.

I followed the attached pattern with one major change - I did 6 dc around each post, so each scale was 6dc, ch1, 6dc. Not sure I’d recommend it but I thought I liked the look better.

I also deviated for the final row of shells at the top and cord, which I got from the above links. I did not do the increase they described in the older version. I’ve copied the parts I used below for completeness sake.

I didn’t really understand what they meant regarding the white cincher-thingy around the cord, but I liked the idea so I made something up. Magic circle, made enough stitches to be tight around the cords (sc or dc, can’t remember), inserted the cords through the center of the mc and slst closed. I think I did a round or two, then ch a couple times and sc across the center between the two cords.

From the linked project:

I changed the top of the bag! Typically you finish off the top with a row of SC and call it a day; NO LONGER. Start as you would normally to SC the top, but when you reach the top of your scale V-stitches, chain 2 and skip 2, lining up with the opening on your previous scale, then continue in this fashion until you finish your round. If you follow the pattern as written you should sc3, ch2, sk2, then repeat (trust your eyes, I’m not great at writing patterns yet). After you slip stitch the round together, ch3 then work a double crochet into your open ch2 space. Work in 5dc, ch1, then another 5dc, so that you have a similar shape to your scale. Continue this 5dc, ch1, 5dc in the round, then slip stitch into the 3rd chain of your first “scale”.

While I normally use a dual drawstring top out of smooth ribbon, I’ve decided to go with a single loop of chain stitch cord. Since you have to work the cord a little harder to open or close it, it makes sure that the bag won’t lose any of your dice while closed and stay rigidly open. I wove the string into the open holes from my changed top ‘scale’.

I forgot to weigh the skeins before I started, so the yardage may not be exact as it seems like they weighed a little more than 170.1g.