From the introduction: I first set foot on Freeboot Landing after crossing the narrow isthmus known as the Tidal Causeway. As I trekked through the knee-deep icy salt water, I could not help but notice dozens of raggedy villagers collecting crab shells of all kinds. I considered asking them the purpose of this endeavor, but was eager to be once again on dry land and their response, no doubt, would require enduring tedious accounts of their customs regarding these trinkets.