In order to trade in sheltertown, agrarian merchants must first traverse the tidelands. Safely completing this journey requires specialized knowledge gained through years of experience, so the town subsidizes mercenary guides to facilitate trade. These nomads are paid a nominal sum——on top of whatever fee they charge clients——to escort visitors safely back and forth.

After a spate of guides taking advantage of their clients (e.g. charging double for a return trip) led to a brief economic recession, guides must now adhere to a code of conduct or risk having their permissions and payments revoked.