Solution

On the right path, follow the beach path and ignore the Giant Conch Shell.

Description

The merchant apprised the shimmering waters before him, certain that they contained riches untold.

While I tend to become distracted by grand scenery, even the most stoic soul would be stunned speechless by the beautiful sea we came upon. Beds of seaweed thick as a forest, glittering fish beyond counting, and crabs hoisting their claws up high as if rejoicing─truly, a culinarian would marvel at the ingredients gathered there. I daresay a truly skilled hand could prepare a full-course meal without stepping foot from those verdant shores.

Strangely enough, there was not a single fisher in sight, yet I suppose the sheer number of deadly creatures we encountered is sufficient explanation. Much like the protagonist of The Merchant's Tale, I am no fighter, so I was most grateful for my bodyguard's presence.

And although we met nary a soul, we noticed the plain markings of civilization along the way. Perhaps there was a fishing village we overlooked somehow. Oh, what I would not give for a glimpse into their way of life. Which of the sea's bounties did they favor? And how did they prepare them? I admit, the lack of answers does fill me with some measure of regret.