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Diary  Updated 01.04.06

7th Sea is a roleplaying game of swashbuckling and sorcery, piracy and adventure, diplomacy and intrigue, archeology and exploration. It's a world of musketeers, pirates and privateers, ancient sorcery and lost civilizations, horrors that hide in the shadows and horrors that hide in plain sight.

Théah is an exciting and dangerous world of sharp blades and sharp wits where a cutting retort can be as deadly as the tip of an assassin’s dagger.

It is a world in which the nobility controls the most powerful force of all: sorcery. Strange magic pulses in their hearts, power given to them in an occult Bargain made long ago. Some sorcerers control the weather. Others weave fabulous and deadly illusions. Some rip through the fabric of reality while others toy with the forces of Fate itself. The hard edge of steel coupled with the shadowy substance of sorcery: this is your first step into the world of 7th Sea.

The waters of 7th Sea are populated with the deadly pirate bands of the Brotherhood of the Coast who are united under the banner of freedom -- freedom from the tyranny of sorcerer and merchant prince, freedom from the shackles of the Church of the Prophets, freedom from greedy landowners and moneylenders. Pirates live the high life envied by landlubbers; they sail where they want and take what they please, leaving behind a trail of broken hearts and empty treasure chests. While the Vaticine Church is preoccupied with spiritual matters on the land, things have become pretty good for pirates as the leaders of Théah hire daredevil adventurers to explore the unknown and bring back the booty they discover. Of course, if said adventurers lower their guard for even a moment, the odds are fairly good that they will see the black flag -- just a moment too late.

The lands of Théah are in a state of flux: some kingdoms are on the verge of becoming countries while elsewhere a swelling tide of nationalism is beginning to blossom and a new kind of war is finding its way into the world. In the courts of kings and queens, diplomats dressed in powdered wigs, lace and silk try to resolve the disputes of nations. Of course, if such diplomacy fails, there is always the cold steel of the dueling sword hiding just under the painted facade.

A new kind of espionage is making its way into the world as well. Men and women trained in the arts of deception are living perilous lives of illusion and artifice as they pillage enemy secrets with only their beauty, cunning and wits and a willingness to do anything for crown, country or wealth.

Buried beneath thousands of years of dust and the waves are vast ancient ruins – the cities of the long-dead Syrne. Who knows what ancient treasures are here for the taking, unseen by human eyes, untouched by human hands? Men and women calling themselves "archeologists" are hired by Théan nobles and rulers to unearth these artifacts. Praised by some as heroes and reviled by others as scavengers, they risk their lives in hopes of discovering the secrets of the Syrneth.

As you traverse the world of 7th Sea, you will find much that is familiar – and much that is totally strange and wondrous. More like a distant cousin than a twin sister, Théah is a whole new world ready to be explorde. So, fling back your cape, oil up that buckler and sharpen your sword!

Prepare to enter a world where a man’s word is defended with steel and a woman’s smile hides a deadly secret.

This is the world of 7th Sea.

Diary [top]

Over the course of the campaign a number of players will give their characters Point of View of what "really" happened in the form of diaries.  So far we have Sigismund's (Tim's character) and The Lady Anastasia (Gabe's Character) take on what's happened so far.  More to follow in the coming weeks (I hope?).

Diary of Sigismund Ostrow: Part 1 (Tim) [top]
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7 New

Apparently they all seem to think I am some sort of thug. Odd really. I am a mercenary. I am from Eisen. The two go hand in hand, really. Wonder why that is? Might it be something to do with Vodacce and Castille? I hate them. Just so we get that clear.

I have no real interest in religion. Live and let live. The old Imperator had the right idea. I don't like the Vaticine Inquisition at all; my family are more Objectionist I suppose. They hail from the east originally, near Ussura. In fact, during the War of the Cross, we thought we might get help from our neighbours. It never happened. I think you should honour your word, and stand by your friends. Not a lot of that happening in Eisen, really. So, anyway, you will excuse me if I don't have a lot of time for anyone claiming to be religious. Particularly the Vaticine, though.

Everyone tells me that the Eisen are all dracheneisen and nobility. They must have an odd view of us. Never mind that the Iron Princes nearly broke the country through their feuding and failure. No, I'm a peasant. Well, actually I'm from a family of respected soldiers. I'll probably hit you if you call me a peasant. My mother is a very respected soldier, still working somewhere in occupied Castille last time I heard, as a sergeant in some private wars still going on there. My father retired, took an axe to the knee, and set up an inn in Freiburg. There wasn't anything left in our previous home. My older sister is also a mercenary, apparently taken up with some political group too. My brother was also a mercenary, but died. He was working for some Vodacce prince in one of their wars. I heard that they got sold out, and if it's true I'll kill the bastards. I hate the Vodacce. Did I mention that?

I am one of the ordinary guys in the world. I have seen what happens when one gets caught up in politics and religion; Eisen is pretty much all mud now. And everyone else got rich. So, I don't have a lot of time for organisations of any sort. I want Eisen to recover, but I reckon the Iron Princes and Imperator have all proven worthless. I'm looking out for number one, really. Don't get me wrong. I know what is right and what is wrong. And I'll do the right thing. But I know that the right thing isn't what some guy in an expensive robe tells me, it is. No. I reckon that I'm fair and honest. I suppose we all do. But I have had my fill of liars, incompetents, wastrels and the self-interested. Maybe the time has come that someone like me did something about it? Eisen needs a few heroes, something to believe in. I know they laugh at me. Good job I have good self-control. Mind you, that won't stop me hitting them.

I reckon you have to respect yourself. I know that I do a decent job. I know I'm a good guy. Just look at what happened during my current job to guard a bunch of merchants here in Kirk. Happened across a damsel in distress, being attacked by a load, and I mean a load, of seamen. I was with a bunch of delegates and guards from the Mission that I'm guarding. I charge to her defence. The rest don't bother or amble along. See what I mean? I suppose I save the damsel. Anyway, turns out she's on the run from the Inquisition, or at least her family is. And she's to meet them here. I have saved her a few times now, though I did get badly out of my depth that one time. Maybe this playing the hero lark is a bit dangerous. Still, I think I make the point. I'm helping out a damsel in distress, hiding her from the Inquisition, fighting seriously powerful assassins and hordes of brutish seamen, and trying to find her father and brother. And not getting paid. Not bad for a dumb peasant, eh?

The lady's name is Ennes Aquilla. She is from a middle class family. Maybe it's all a bit too obvious to be true? Still, there have been a number of attempts on her life. Or at least to try and capture her. Maybe the letter from her father to meet in Kirk was a fake? Her stuff was stolen from her hotel, most notably a notebook. We are left with a locket (and odd scratches) and maps. I don't really know where to go from here. But nor do the rest of the group.

Not too sure what to make of that lot. Eduardo is plain evil, and that's excluding that he's a Vodacce. Looks a bit useful, though. Hector Alonso is Castillian, and I caught him mumbling about the Inquisition. He seems to be guarding a merchant, Sigrid. She's Vendel. Best of the bunch. Seems efficient and equally suspicious of most of this lot. Might try and see what happens with her. Unlike Lady Anastasia de la Tour, who can only be a Vodacce witch. The latter doesn't override the former. Vladimir is from Ussura, big guy, doesn't speak anything else.

Diary of Sigismund Ostrow: Part 2 (Tim)  [top]

You would think no-one had seen a headless corpse before, what with all the whining. I really don't see what the fuss is about. The guy we killed in Ennes' room, I removed his head. Just to be sure. Then threw it down the stairs into the inn. I suspected that he might have had compatriots, and I wanted them to know that they really didn't want to mess with us. I was badly banged up as well, whilst that Vodacce Eduardo just played around. Vladimir was pretty useful, though.

Anyway, rather than be recognised for a damned good fight, everyone was screaming and running for the door, and the rest of the group were clutching their stomachs and moaning about my being a nutcase. Looks like the fighters probably went to those effete fighting schools where no-one really gets hurt. I must admit that I thought I might impress the ladies too, but Sigrid looked dumbfounded and Ennes fainted. Strange world some people must live in.

The Watch were pretty understanding, though. Accepted that I was doing my job, and did it pretty well. In fact, they were more interested in Ennes, and who she was. I must admit that I played the dumb soldier "just following orders" routine, though I suppose I don't want to get Sigrid into trouble. She doesn't seem a bad sort. There was a translator there, Fernando Cruz, who turned out to be a minor trade attaché at the Castillian embassy. He invited us all for a meal afterwards.

Turned out Eduardo had been doing what Vodacce do best: loot the dead. He'd found a medallion of an inverted cross. This Fernando said that it was from a "Black Cross" society, a breakaway from the "Rose and Cross" secret society. This group are anti-church, and that seems fair enough to me. Still, he offered me 100 Guilders per month and us all a 1,000 Guilder fund for expenses with a promise of more to come if we'd help Ennes find her father. His group had hired him to work for them, but he'd gone missing. His last location was in Eisen. Basically, he wanted to prevent the Black Cross from whatever they were trying to do. For that much, I'm happy to help. Mind you, it seems rather a lot of money. Still, I think I'd help Ennes anyway. I know what it's like to lose family and be on the end of the interests of one of these religious groups. I think I mentioned that in my first entry; however, it's not something to forget.

Lady Anastasie had a few words with me. Seems she is at least claiming to be a witch or something, and certainly not a friend of the church. She's still Vodacce, but perhaps I should cut her some slack. I really don't trust many of this lot, especially her bodyguard. She does seem to have a cute maid, though. That might be useful to know.

I suggested that we try and buy back Ennes' father's notebook on the black market. If it was stolen by any ordinary group, then it should be possible to buy it back. Money talks. We had a run in with the inn keeper of the place the theft took place. He got uppity, so I slapped him down. He then accused me of being a dumb barbarian. Vladimir interposed, but I won't forget that. Damned civilians squeal for protection, but then they quickly forget who was there defending them.

I have been buying equipment. Ennes has been stuck in a room poring over maps with the Lady Anastasie, so I haven't had much time to see her. I think that she is also avoiding me. I wonder if it's about the head?

Diary of Sigismund Ostrow: Part 3 (Tim)   [top]

Nothing much seems to have come from attempts to retrieve the notebook. This stinks of some truth to the suggestion that a secret society was behind it. Otherwise, I'd have expected someone to take the money and talk. We have left cash with the Merchants Guild, if the notebook should show, and I used a forwarding address in Freiburg at a place I know. I didn't use the inn as I don't trust this lot, but with ex-Sergeant Alicia Wende. She's a friend of the family and deals in various less than legal items. I also had a word with a few mates, and last night a certain inn was wrecked. That will teach the bastard. I made very sure that I was seen aboard ship and very visible - just in case. Some of the group thought that this attack was very suspicious and linked to our attempts to achieve the notebook. I found that very amusing.

I'm far from sure about the rest of this group, and I have learned never to campaign with people that you can't trust. Still, the money is good. I decided to try and get at Natalia Tagliapietra, Lady Anastasie's maid and a Vodacce. Might be good to see what I can find out through her. She must know quite a bit about the Lady and her bodyguard. She is pretty damned good looking to, which doesn't do any harm. I offered her a hand with some of her heavier chores, chatted to her in normal situations and even managed a few hours alone. I was rather surprised; she's actually quite pleasant and seems genuinely pleased to see me, when she stops blushing. I must admit I feel a bit sorry for her. Not only has she a lousy job, she's also stuck out here in the wilderness and without any friends. None of the others ever talk to her; you'd think she was invisible. Still, this is not at all what I was expecting from a Voddacce. Mind you, I need to be careful. I have been very heedful that the others do not know that I speak Voddacce; however, I think Natalia must know this by know because of our conversations. Her Vendel is really rather poor, so I had little choice. Maybe I can teach her Eisen.

I also took Ennes out to dinner, as she seemed utterly fed up with being with Lady Anastasie, and failing to unravel the code that some of the group feel is there. Ennes still seemed a little reticent, but was good company. All this polite society stuff seems really strange; I mean it was only a head, and off the guy that had tried to kill her too. Sheesh! She's really very intelligent, and I feel rather stupid in her presence. I suppose I am really; we could never afford any education. However, she isn't as stuck up or self-involved as most of the others. And she pulls her own weight. Unlike some. Before we left, I also bought a young wolfhound, and have called him Komtur. Hopefully, he'll be a useful companion to have around, and an extra set of eyes and ears. Vladimir was trying to get a bit too friendly with him, and seemed to be trying out some sort of witchery. I warned him off, but I'll keep a close eye on him and keep him well away from Komtur.

Oh yes, we have a boat at our service. After some discussion we decided to sail to Freiburg, and then continue overland. I am really very far from sure about this wild goose chase, but I suppose there aren't any better ideas. The fact that Ennes' father was last seen in Eisen, years ago, is hardly what I'd call a lead. Still, I'm being paid by the day, so what do I care? Sigrid has managed to obtain some cargo for us. It will be good cover as well as make us some extra cash. The boat looks well maintained, and both Captain Aeyende and First Mate Bryn seem very competent.

Once we set off, I got my sea-legs pretty well. Apparently, there's a guy called Olav on board who is a Foul Weather Jack. He's needed because he can tell the time or some rubbish. I didn't understand it, but it helps us navigate. Quite a few of the group were unwell, and both Natalia and Sigrid accepted my offers to help them. I didn't do too badly either; that old tale I recalled seemed to have some truth to it. Unsurprisingly, one or two of the others started up on some innuendo about where I was putting my hands. Sigrid is a bit out of my league, and I reckon she has delusions of importance. She certainly hasn't said much to me. Still, I'm more than happy to support her as the boss. She's sensible, seems pragmatic and is as honest as a merchant can be - and is definitely the best of the alternatives. I tried to get Natalia to come on deck as the sailors say that it helps get your sea-legs, but she was too ill. Damned "Lady" Anastasie still made her do her work, so I helped out a bit, and brought her some food. Must be getting soft or something.

It wasn't long before we fell foul of some sea creature that mistook the boat for prey. We lost some crew, before I managed to shoot the thing in the head. It dived away and fled. The ship was damaged, and I helped pump water all that night. The captain found a cove with a small village and put in for repairs. He thinks it will be okay, but we'll have to see. There was some issue with Hector and Lady Anastasie over her clothing getting torn during the fight. I must admit for a Castillian, he seems to treat her rather disrespectfully; I thought they were into all that nobility stuff. I'd also be more worried than he seems to be. I mean, it's safe enough writing my views on nobility here. No-one else is likely to read them, and I don't say them to Lady Anastasie to her face or in a language that she understands. However, these thoughts would get me into serious trouble if they got out; one thing that nobles do, is they stick together, and hang uppity low-borns. Worse, she is a witch, and so can hex him. I can only assume that she is planning something special for him. Hector's behaviour just reinforces the fact that I really don't understand any of my associates.

Once we were anchored, I took the opportunity to take Natalia ashore, so that she could recover a bit and get some air. I also offered to escort Ennes too. Both agreed. Unfortunately, most of the rest of the group announced that they would join us. I don't know if they are deliberately stupid, or deliberately difficult. I'm also not happy about leaving the ship without any of us onboard; for that reason I had to cart all my equipment with me. Still, I did manage a few moments with Natalia and gave her a small gold crucifix and necklace that I had bought in Kirk. I really think that it's pretty selfish of Lady Anastasie to bring her on this trip, but I shouldn't expect anything else from nobles.

Diary of Sigismund Ostrow: Part 4 (Tim) [top]

I have started to notice a theme in this party. I do all the fighting; others get the glory. There isn't much glory in the army, of course. But this is different.

The trip on the island went well, except for the gaggle that followed us. Mind you, I ended up with all the female members of the group, and only Eduardo otherwise. He left quite quickly too; which I thought odd for a bodyguard, since he left the Lady Anastasia with me. We passed a rough palisade, which was also odd - though we found out why it was there soon enough. The picnic was fine, and everything was relaxed until Eduardo noticed something in the sea. Some bipedal creature came up out and hollered. Eduardo threw some food at it, and then it attacked us. We killed it, and I got a minor flesh would. I played it down as Natalia was watching. Sigrid held up her end quite well, and put in the killing blow. She seemed to think that this meant that she alone had killed it. I am really getting fed up with this. I do all the hard work, and then some swank from some sword school twiddles their prong, and claims the kill. I think I will let them do it all next time, if they are so sure of themselves. Still, she let me take the credit in the village for the price of a bottle of wine. Everyone feted me, although I did hear Eduardo muttering about how I wasn't worth it. Still, seems the village is now to be called Sigismund and the island is Ostrow. I did consider obtaining certain other rewards, but I was more worried about what Natalia might think. I also discovered that Sigrid seems to think that I have designs on Ennes, and has set herself up as the woman's protector. I don't see what it has to do with Sigrid, and I don't see why Ennes needs protecting from me. Sure, I might be interested, but I'm certainly not going to do anything that isn't reciprocated. I'm beginning to wonder what sort of person this group thinks I am. Maybe it was that head thing?

The ship was repaired, and we arrived safely in Freiburg. It was nice to be in my home country, and I saw my father for a couple of days. I did not tell the rest of the group that I had family here; I am still not sure about them. Since I had contacts I arranged to supply the expedition for the journey south. Lady Anastasia wanted a carriage, and since Natalia would be travelling with her I was keen to push for this too. I could not hire one, so she had to buy it. This suggests that she has rather a lot of money! She also wanted a driver, and I hired Franz. He is an ex-sergeant in my old regiment, although I never found out why he had been kicked out. I heard some stories, especially about his drinking. Still he is a good man, and an excellent fighter, even if he was never particularly good at commanding. I arranged superior wages too at 30g, but the Lady can afford it. Hector was quibbling about the expenses of the carriage when he thought that party expenses might have to pay for it. He was moaning about Natalia too, so I told him to shut up. He took umbrage at this, but didn't push it when I told him not to call Natalia names. Unfortunately, this means that he is likely to try and use this against me in the future, and make sarcastic or suggestive remarks. He’s like that. I also bought a cart and horse, with two spare draft horses, and food for us and the horses for two weeks, all this for the group from party funds. I made a small percentage for myself as a fee, but they still got reduced rates. I also bought three pistols, since I think I might just need them.

Lady Anastasia requested to see me. She demanded to know whether my intentions to Natalia were honourable. I was rather put aback, as I don't think anyone has ever been quite so formal before. I could not admit that I had been intending to have some fun and use the maid to try and get some information on her and Eduardo. This is especially true as I do actually like Natalia, and feel both sorry for and more generally interested in her. Lady Anastasia also rather put me at a disadvantage by stating that she believed me to be honourable, and accepted my word. From a noble, a Voddacce and a witch this was all a lot to take in. I later approach Natalia with a view to seeing if she wanted to escape Lady Anastasia. After all, I know people who could help her here, but she said that she was well paid, and fairly happy. Lady Anastasia told me that she regards Natalia as her companion as much as a maid. She doesn't treat her like that, and Natalia seems not to feel the same way. Things are so much simpler in the army!

When we set off, Lady Anastasia allowed Ennes to travel with her inside, which I was somewhat surprised at. That was rather a gracious act for a noble. There were stories of banditry on the road, and sure enough three days into the journey we were attacked. Along the route, I made sure that Lady Anastasia was treated according to her station. I suppose I'm playing up for Natalia, but neither of these two is as I expected of the Voddacce. And she has accorded me more respect than the others in the group have, perhaps with the exception of Vladimir. Even Sigrid is turning into a pain. Eduardo, of course, is exactly what I expected of a Voddacce. Still, it doesn't do any harm to have a witch on your side. The first village we entered, there was an allegedly haunted church. However, as we wanted to get on with our mission, we ignored it. The second night we stopped in a town with an Objectionist church, and which Hector visited. I must admit this rather stymied my view on him as a Vaticcine extremist.

There were about a dozen of the bandits and their leader, and they attacked us on the third day. Hector got stuck straight in, to be fair, and took a pasting. He seemed loath to accept help, and when both Franz and I hacked in, and the leader was eventually killed, Hector claimed this as his own. Eduardo - having done nothing in the fight - then stole his rather fine sword, it appearing that Hector had bought an excellent one in Freiburg. The dead leader's face did not correspond with the wanted poster that we had been shown (and he has a 30g price on his head). We bagged 12 horses, 6 longbows, and 12 other swords as loot from our attackers, and made the next village by nightfall.

Diary of Sigismund Ostrow: Part 5 (Tim) [top]

I still don’t quite understand what I’m doing here. Outside a "haunted" church. I also don’t seem to have obtained my share of the loot from the bandits. I’ll have to follow that up.

We’re here to stop some “great evil” being dug up in an old church after being warned by the ghost of a priest. The local landowner has also come along. But, why we’re doing this I don’t know. Sounds naff, and unpaid to me.

And what a great start. The whole plan seemed to consist of the Vodacce bastard, Eduardo, wandering off on his own and getting into trouble. First, he managed to stir up a horde of rats. I steamed in to get him out of trouble, only because I thought it would make me look good. Then he steps out and lets me take the full brunt. I am sorely pressed - and by rats! Killed a lot of them, though. Then Hector wants his wounds tending to. And Lord Hoity-Toity Wolfgang then remarks that Eduardo must be the best fighter as he isn’t marked. Nobles! I told him where I’d put his head if he made such a remark in the future.

This masterful strategy continued. Eduardo stumbled upon four shambling bodies, dead that appeared to have been animated. I chopped one into bits. Meanwhile, our fighting school heroes were discussing the nuances of beheading them as a superior tactic, and missing. Apparently simply hitting them isn’t enough for our great technicians.

The worst was yet to come. The next room had about 60 of these creatures, apparently digging for something, under the control of four live people - a Castillian, two Avalonians (one female) and ... a Voddacce. There was discussion as to what to do. I pointed out that this was "Lord" Wolfgang’s land, and this was his problem. Still, I couldn’t really go back or risk being seen as a coward and so I continued with this ludicrous venture. We opened up with missile weapons. I had six loaded muskets and three pistols primed and ready for use. Our "school" theorists were trying to kill "the wizard". Me? I went for the Vodacce. Did I mention that I hate the Vodacce?

Anyway, I hit the Vodacce, and he entered combat with Wolfgang, by-passing Eduardo. Very strange that. Well, actually it isn’t at all. They are a duplicitous lot. Hector was taken down by the Castillian, and I shot the Vodacce at short range with my pistol. Sigrid held her own. Our superior numbers and skill eventually told, and these two broke - just as their shambling allies arrived. I shot the wizard dead, and then charged after the fleeing Castillian who managed to pick up the mortally wounded "wizard". I had to evade mobs of shambling undead, but caught him just as he climbed out. Yes, climbed out. To waiting horses. Through a different entry. One that these idiots hadn’t bothered to look for or scout out. No, our theorists and intellectuals from these great fighting schools had simply walked into the front door and through all of the prepared defences. Brilliant!

Eduardo followed me, seeing that I had cleared the way. I fought the Castillian, mounted and attempting to evade. Eduardo decided to fight the horse. Typical! I badly wounded the Castillian three times, before Eduardo finished him off. Cock-a-hoop, he offered me his hand. I took it, though not without a little pause. I have to admit that the Castillian had been trying to kill Eduardo, and he did well in the end. I wonder if this is linked to what went on before when the other Vodacce had ignored him?

I set to looting the bodies, quickly followed by Eduardo. He wanted to go around the front with the horses, but I went back to loot the other bodies. And make sure that damned Vodacce was truly dead. Did I mention that I hate Vodacce? I’ll record my findings in my next entry.

Diary of Sigismund Ostrow: Part 6 (Tim)  [top]

 We completed tidying up at the church. Lord Hoity-Toity agreed to sort out the remains grudgingly, as if it was our job.

Continuing on our way, we passed some scouts for one of the many private armies. Hector seemed to want to deal with them. I kept the carriage going. Better to mind our own business.

We arrived at the city of Seeufer, safely, and took up residence. Eduardo tried to find an armourer that would provide him with a drachen weapon. I deliberately didn’t help. All the same, he managed to come up with a mission to find some lost child for the local Fulk. I’m not interested in helping him, though a kidnapped child is a different matter. We’ll have to see what develops.

I was trying to find out some local rumours about this place, something about a monster in the adjacent lake. I suggested to Ennes that we go boating as a means of hearing about this story. She just looked at me and said that I was an idiot.

Lady Anastasia has departed, taking Natalia with her. Damn.

** New  Diary of Sigismund Ostrow: Part 7 (Tim)  New **  [top]

 I arranged to have a high quality weapon made for me, but I’ll have to wait a week. Since I have to wait for my sword, I might as well help the others out on their 'search and rescue' job. The idiots have signally failed to find any sign of Hans, ward to Prince Heimsal, who has been kidnapped. I’ll have to help out, or we’ll never get on. They have managed to discover that he was kidnapped by four swordsmen working for Luca Villanova, but found no trace of these Vodacce scum in town. There are plenty to choose from. Did I ever mention that I hate the Vodacce? At least we’re being well paid, although Eduardo seems to think he’s getting a cut. He wanted the right to use dracheneisen metal, and that’s what he’ll get.

I found out that Volker Roth acts as the local agent for Villanova, and placed the workshop and residence under observation. I noted that someone else was watching it. They were very good, and set someone to tail me. Fortunately, I spotted him and made him take me to those who hired him. It was these same people. They might be good; I’m better. They stated that they had interests in the Villanova family, and that they were working towards similar ends to us. They agreed to supply me with the address of a Villanova safehouse in return for a favour in the future. Anyone notice who does all the work in this group?

Luca Villanova seems to be the head of the family here, along with a witch, Lady Claudia. Worryingly, they seem to be aware of our interest - but then my colleagues are not exactly subtle. We were invited to dinner by Luca. I suggested that this would be a perfect time to attack the safehouse, since we would be expected at dinner. My plan was agreed upon.

Hector and I charged the front. Eduardo was supposed to attack through the rear; note the “suppose” there. We weren’t sure where the boy was being held, so I took the ground floor and Hector took the upper. Unfortunately, Hector found all the bad guys, whilst I found none - though I did kick open the back door for Eduardo. By the time I got back to help Hector, he was in a bad way but he’d fought well. I killed a couple of brutes, and then slew the henchman that had really hurt Hector. Hearing glass breaking and fearing for the child, I charged off into another room - to be confronted by another henchman and over a dozen brutes. I charged them, wounding the henchman. They’d been waiting for me, and seemed to move rather fast. (I really don’t like the delayed move mechanism!). Eduardo appeared, finally, at this point, noisily promising to follow me up. But he was actually nowhere to be seen. Indeed, I could have sworn that I heard the door close behind me. Taking a pounding, and realising that the child was unmoving, I risked everything and lunged at the henchman, taking us both through a large glass window and onto the ground two floors below. I was stunned in the fall. Hector later told me that Eduardo let the bastard escape; he just let him stroll off, the Yellow-streaked, spineless coward. Never leave your enemies alive. That’s the second time that he’s acted peculiarly when we fought other Vodacce. Hector claims that he did it to ensure the survival of the child, but the guy was badly wounded. Eduardo had earlier claimed to be the best fighter in the group. Yellow, more like. I reckon he was chicken, especially when he then left the two of us in order to collect the rest of the group, who were en route to the dinner as part of our cover. So, the child he didn’t fight to protect, he then left with two of us who were so very badly wounded that we nearly died (in fact, I was out cold).

I recovered some time later. The child was safe. Later, when I saw that Ennes was in the room, I heroically whispered hoarsely "Did I save the child?". Vladimir, also in the room, spoilt the effect by quibbling with my version of events, obviously to spitefully interfere with any chance that I might have had. This was most interesting as he claims not to be able to speak anything other than Ussuran. I have uncovered another liar within the party. Even worse, Eduardo has been given his warrant and seems to think that he’s some sort of Eisen noble. If there’s one thing that I hate more than a Vodacce, it’s a noble. Actually, a Vodacce noble. If I wasn’t flat on my back - due to Eduardo’s cowardice - I’d have them all.

Journal of Lady Anastasia De La Torre: Act One (Gabe) [top]
Act Two 
Act Three
Act Four 

The trade negotiations are a bit tedious, and I am still trying to get to grips with the nuances of the Vendel language, but my gifts as a fate witch, even though I am only an apprentice, are proving helpful. They say the Vodacce are a race of shopkeepers, but trade does not interest me, neither does power or influence. Even so, as one of the sorte strega I was asked to attend as a member of the trade delegation by one of the Nonna Atropos, who felt that my gifts would be of use during the negotiations.

Quite an honour for one of my rank in the sisterhood, and a good opportunity to increase the status of my family. Having said that, I was not the only witch attending, and I have no doubt that the reason I got this opportunity was that some of my higher-ranking sisters wanted to see how I would cope in an official role. Not that this was my first official role, official engagements are not a new phenomenon to me, but this is the first time that I have represented my nation abroad.

Before I left Vodacce my family hired a bodyguard for me, a swordsman and fellow countryman called Edwardo Callibria. I am still unsure what to make of the man. I have to respect his diligence where my safety is concerned, clearly he takes his duty seriously, and he has never been rude to me, but he seems to have a, for want of a better word, an attitude. Edwardo is very much a mercenary; he does what he does because he is paid to do it, and has no desire to do any more than he has to. So there are times when I have to remind him of his place.

I have not had a chance to see Kirk, my days have been spent observing the delegates at the trade negations, and my evenings have been spent either at the residence set aside for foreign emissaries (at least hose who were not directly involved in the talks), or at the official balls, which were as much an opportunity to talk business (for hose who wanted it), as they were to provide a chance to relax. In the evenings, when returning to my apartments, it had become my habit where possible to leave at the same time as those of my fellow representatives who shared the residence. This was not done by official agreement, as we had never spoken to each other, but rather this was due to an unstated understanding that in a strange city the larger group the safer we would be. Even so we had always stayed in our separate groups, within the larger one.

On an aside, one the people sharing the property, a woman was in fact part of the Vendel delegation, I presume a very minor one as her bodyguard was from Castille, and she was not given rooms with the local merchants.

Today began like the previous days, talks, lunch, more talks, with a break in the early evening as tempers where getting strained. I delayed long enough to ensure my fellow representatives were with me when I left. On the way back we heard a woman’s scream, and shouts in Castillian. All of the others ran to her aid immediately, all that is except Edwardo, who wanted us to return quickly to the residence and leave the woman and the others to their fates. I hesitated for a moment, not sure how to react, then gathered my wits and ordered Edwardo to assist the others to save the woman. Edwardo refused to leave my side least I was attacked, although the assailants, if they had wanted to reach me, would have had to get the others first, so I demanded he assist.

Between them they defeated the thugs, only to be faced with another twelve assailants, who came running round the corner, followed up by a giant of a man. My companions engaged the new group of attackers. During this fight the giant reached the woman, who feinted when she saw him. I had no idea whether or not the giant was working with the villains, and I could do nothing until the fight was over, so we were very concerned when we picked her up. As it turned out he was trying to protect her

Conversation was very awkward as, as a group, we do not all have a single language in common. The Eisenian representative wanted to take the victim back to his rooms, which concerned me, as, although I would not accuse the man of being dishonourable, he was clearly acting inappropriately. None-the-less, as we were quartered in the same building, and it was better than arguing on the street, I did not disagree.

When we reached his apartment we questioned the woman, that is, I and the other female delegate, as she and I can speak Castllian. The woman’s name we learned is Inness Aquilla. She came to Kirk to find both her father, an inventor named Jorge Aquilla, and her brother, Enrico, who disappeared 15-to-16 years ago after being persecuted by the Inquisition. Inness had until recently been living with her grandmother. She received a letter six months ago, claiming to be from her father, and explaining what had happened him. In the letter Inness was instructed to come to Kirk, the capital of Vendel, where she would be met by her father. Inness boarded the ship, the Fair Wind, and arrived yesterday.

I am concerned that the group that attacked her may well be members of the Inquisition, hoping to get at her father through her. It is also possible that the letter could be a clever forgery, designed to lure her into a trap. If so, she is in considerable danger. On clue we may have is her locket, which the brigands tried to steal, which had on the inside the pictures of what we believe to be her parents (I wonder what has happened to her mother?) and some strange markings on the outside, which the Castillian bodyguard wrote down.

I expressed my suspicions that the group that was hunting Inness was the Inquisition, at which point the Eisenian mercenary, who I learned was called Sigismund Ostrow, walked over to the Vendelian delegate and whispered something into her ear. I confronted him on this and he informed me that he suggested that the two of them, along with her manservant walk back to the Senorita Aquilla’s rooms and collect her belongings. I think he was lying as if that were the case whispering would not have been necessary, but I chose to say nothing. As no one else objected to the idea, even though I considered it foolhardy as the three of them could be easily overwhelmed, I ceased my protests and let them leave. They returned within a minute to inform us that we had been followed and our building was being watched. Inevitably it was agreed that she should stay with us, and the other woman, who I discovered was called Sigrid, suggested Inness should stay in her room, which I thought was a good idea.

On a personal note, having seen so many women in Vodacce disenfranchised because of their gender, I will not stand by and see this innocent suffer because of a group of men. I do not know these people well enough to be able to judge whether they will be willing to help, but if I have to help her by myself I will.

Journal of Lady Anastasia de La Torre: Act Two (Gabe)  [top]

Before I continue my journal I would like to make a few notes on my first impressions about the other people who have been drawn into this adventure. The obvious exception being Edwardo Callibria, as, obviously, I knew him before my arrival in Vendel, and have already commented on him several times in my journal.

Firstly, there is the Ussuran giant, Vladimir Tolstoy, who the others have taken to calling, “the bear.” Although Vladimir is physically intimidating, I would describe his personality as open, cheerful, and friendly. I would go as far as to say that the man is naïve. Even though I cannot understand a word he is saying, I find that I have warmed to his rustic charm, and I am concerned that the others may try to take advantage of his child-like nature. Even so, he is not to be underestimated. It is my understanding that he is a sorcerer of some sort, presumably a pyeryem, or shapeshifter, as that is the heritage native to Ussura. I am not completely sure of the details, but apparently he climbed out of a first floor window, too small for him to fit through by any normal means, Sigrid found out he was missing, told a few people, and it has been a talking point amongst the group for a while. I feel that I should point out here that, even though the blood royal of his nation may run through his veins, as it does for all sorcerers in respect to their national heritages, he seems in my mind too unsophisticated to be a noble himself. I could be wrong, it may be that he is of a line fallen on hard times, or descended from the bastard offspring of a Ussuran noble. Whatever the case, it is yet to be seen whether or not his gift has bred true

Sigismund Ostrow, the Eisenian, is an uncouth brute. It is blatantly obvious that he does not like me, or my bodyguard. He is not overtly rude, but there is a terseness in the way he speaks to us, and from time to time right in front of me he will slip into Vendellian or Ussurian to covertly mutter something derogatory in the belief that I won’t realise what he is doing because I do not speak Ussuran, or without realising that I I know some words of Vendel because I have been studying the language. In fact, while I am thinking about it he seems to be using those languages to force me out of the conversations. I do not trust him. I do not like him. Moreover, inappropriately, he keeps trying to spend undue time alone with the Castillian woman. His behaviour is un-gentlemanly in the extreme

Sigrid, she has not yet told me her surname, as I have already mentioned is a merchant from Vendel, and the only native to be given an apartment in our residence. It is my impression that Sigrid is an extremely minor merchant, whose attendance at the trade negotiations was a last minute arrangement, probably thanks to a friend, patron, or other contact. Which would explain why she was not quartered with the Vendel delegation. Of course, as I have remarked in previous notes, she could have been clumsily sent to gather intelligence on us. Having said that, Sigrid, like myself, wants to help Inness. I would describe Sigrid as down to earth, I rather like her, and I consider her someone I can work with.

Hector Olonzo is a Castilllian, and for some reason, the bodyguard to the Vendel merchant woman, Sigrid. Olanzo seems pragmatic and direct. During the fight, Hector was supporting Sigrid, although she seems to be quite proficient with a sword. He also seems to want to help Inness, although that may simply be because the woman is also a Castillian, or perhaps because that was what Sigrid wanted to do. He is another person I can really on, at least in the matter at hand.

Those are my first impressions of my acquaintances; time will tell how right I am.

I had problems getting to sleep last night, as I could not stop thinking about what had happened. The fact that I was also annoyed with Edwardo, because I had to make him take a turn guarding Inness, did not help. It is obvious to me that he begrudges doing anything to help the Castillian woman, and would rather I drop the matter and leave her to whatever fate has in store for here. Edwardo is very much a Vedacce male. I cannot say why the man accepted the commission as my bodyguard, perhaps it was the thrill of being in dangerously close proximity to a sorceress, perhaps it was simply the money. I do not care so long as he remembers his duty to me.

After I had refreshed and breakfasted, I was informed that the others had left early in the morning to get Inness’ belongings and to make enquiries about her assailants. So I decided to spend the remainder of the morning at the talks and take the afternoon off. Luckily for me, with negotiations drawing to a close, my presence at the discussions is not as important as it used to be. In real terms, all that is left is for the negotiators to ‘cross the T’s, and dot the I’s.’ When I arrived back the others had still not returned, so I had a bath and waited for them.

When they finally returned they were carrying a reasonably sized chest, which they placed in the room that has become our meeting point. Their enquiries had also borne fruit, as they had learned that the uniforms that Inness’ attackers had been wearing were Vodacce, as was the ship, which was called the Riglieto. While examining the chest Sigrid discovered that it had a false a false bottom, designed to conceal a secret draw, which she managed to open. In the draw we found an old map with coded markings on it that, from its layout had been drawn prior to the invasion of Castille by Montaigne, and a family tree, which also has coded markings.

Because of these new findings I decided to arrange a meeting with someone high up in my delegation to find out if anyone knew about this ship. It was a bit surprised at how quickly the meeting was scheduled, as I expected it to take a day or so. I was able to speak to the head of the delegation, along with the most senior witch at the negotiations, and ask them about the Riglieto, who its Captain was, and where was it sailing from and too. They agreed to look into it. However I had the very strong impression that the head of the delegation already knew something about the Riglieto, and had no intention of revealing what he knew. I can only hope that none of the Vodacce ruling families are involved in this. Whether that is something to be concerned about is yet to be seen.

I took the risk of being honest with the others about what I observed when I sought assistance from my delegation. Most everyone seemed concerned about this revelation, and Sigismund scowled and muttered one of his veiled comments. I know that the others are not comfortable with me, in part because I am a noble, and in part because I am a witch. I can only hope that my honesty does not backfire on me.

Sigrid also sought out some information about the ship from her trade delegation. As a native of Vendel she was also in a position to make discreet enquiries about Inness Aquilla’s father, who may be working as an alchemist under an assumed name.

We then spent some time going over what few clues we had, to no avail. It was while doing this that we heard someone breaking in above us. The men went to investigate, while we women stayed safely downstairs. Shortly after the men left there was the sound of fighting and raised voices, followed by the sound of something bouncing down the stairs.

Journal of Lady Anastasia de La Torre: Act Three (Gabe)  [top]

We waited for the men to return; when they did they were grim. When we asked what had happened the men responded with guarded comments and dark glances at Sigismund. I turned to Edwardo, and insisted he tell me the full story. I had to push because his answer was piecemeal, but I got the full story in the end. They had found a single assailant breaking into Sigrid’s bedroom. They fought and slew him, after which, in an act of barbarity, Sigismund beheaded the corpse and threw the head down the stairs.

The Watch was called, and when they saw the condition of the corpse and the bloody mess that was Sigrid’s bedroom, they asked us to attend the guardhouse in the morning, where we were to give a full report of the night’s events. The Watch made it clear that we would be interviewed separately, but they promised we would be provided with interpreters if needed.

Meanwhile we took the opportunity to discuss the recent events, and our options. One of my associates had found a badge with a black rose and upside down cross on the dead assailant. It looks like some sort of heraldic symbol, but no one knows what. Our discussion went round in circles for a good while, during which Edwardo lost interest and returned to our apartments. Shortly after he left the room it was decided by the others to set up another watch for tonight to protect Inness. At which point there was a lot of anger around the table at Edwardo’s absence. I found myself on the defensive, as I was so busy with the discussion that I did not fully register when Edwardo had left. I felt a lot of embarrassment at the fact that the others, even Sigismund, were taking their responsibility to Inness very seriously, and Edwardo was not there to help. I also felt a sense of vulnerability, as my bodyguard had presumed that I was safe amongst these people that we do not really know.

I intend to speak to Edwardo about it, but not immediately as I want time to consider what I am going to say.

When I returned to my rooms I had Natalia, my maidservant, set aside one of my more gothic dresses and veils. I wanted to dress to make an impact, to ensure that my status as a noble and a member of the sorte strega was in no doubt, to be certain that the Watch Captain treated me with appropriate respect, and took me seriously. I had problems sleeping again last night, this time because I spent a lot of time thinking about what the Eisenian did, and trying to decide whether or not to report what Edwardo has told me to the Watch Captain. Killing the attacker was self-defence, beheaded the corpse was an act of desecration that proves that the Eisens have a reputation for barbarity with good reason in the civilised world.

The name of the Captain of the Watch is Henning, and his office was very much as I expected it to be, as was the man. Captain Hennings strongest characteristic was fidelity, to who or what I am not sure, maybe Fernando Cruz, the other man in the room. I could not make up my mind whether or not to check at the time, but now wish I had. Fernando Cruz, the man who translated on my behalf was not a member of the Watch, or even s Vendellian, he introduced himself as a minor trade attaché from the Castillian Embassy. Cruz struck me as a very ambitious man, and I found myself wandering why a low level attaché was translating on behalf of the local Watch, as in a city dominated by trade I would have expected many members of the Watch to be multilingual. Having said that, I can understand why the Watch Captain would want a member of the Castillian Embassy present, knowing a Castillian woman is at the centre of recent events.

My dress and manner had the desired effect, both men were differential to my status, and I was not questioned as hard as they might otherwise have done. I did not lie to them, but I left out what Edwardo had told me, and deflected their questions by emphasised that I was not a witness to the events the Captain was investigating. In truth, I had not made up my mind as to whether or not I was going to recount my bodyguard’s revelation to both men and push for whatever justice the Captain deemed appropriate. At the back of my mind is the hope that with a firm encouragement the Eisenian will curb his brutish nature and so not endanger our mission further. It would be a shame, considering the dangers we could be facing, if Sigismund were to become a liability, and we were to loose a capable swordsman. There were two related events of note. The first, Edwardo during his interview revealed the existence of the badge, which Cruz took away. The second was that during Hector’s interview, Fernando Cruz arranged a meeting with us over dinner at the Golden Coin Pub, an inn next door to the Castillian Embassy. Clearly Cruz has some knowledge of or interest in the matter. I am now fairly confident that Cruz and Henning are connected in some way, and his presence at the guardhouse was not a coincidence.

As soon as I got the chance to do so, I took Sigismund to one side and spoke to him about what he had done. I expressed my disapproval and pointed out that, had I wanted to, I could have revealed the full story of what had happened to the Captain of the Watch. I tried to get the man to acknowledge that what he did was wrong, and to agree to curb his brutal nature, although I was a lot more diplomatic than my notes would imply. Sigismund was unrepentant, and went as far as to try to justify his action, claiming that the beheading of the corpse was in fact necessary, and the reason I did not understand this was because I was not a warrior. I will ignore the revulsion that was clear on the faces of the others after he had committed his atrocity. Clearly he misjudges me; perhaps for a moment he thought that he was talking to an ignorant peasant girl, and not an educated noble of the blood royal, familiar with court intrigue and chivalry. Or maybe the women of Eisen are as bloodthirsty as their menfolk, and to him all other women are soft. Of course, judging by his anger at my words and relish in defying me, it could simply have been the fact that I am Vodacce. What ever his reason, I reminded him of my status as a noble and a fate witch, and that as such I am no fool.

One good thing came out of our conversation. Sigismund is an objectionist, perhaps even an atheist, who hates the Vaticine Church and the Inquisition more than he hates Vodacce. The Eisenian admitted his dislike for Vodacce, and explained his reasons, he hols the Vodacce nation responsible for the destruction of Eisen during the War of the Cross, and more personally for the death of his brother. But, was prepared to put his prejudices behind him in my case because as a fate witch he considers me to be diametrically opposed to the Vaticine Church and the Inquisition. He is right as far as the Inquisition is concerned, but like most Vodacce I grew up as a member of the Vaticine, and am not inclined to turn my back on that, at least not without good reason. As an act of good faith Sigismund warned me that Hector might be an agent working for the Inquisition, though it is a little unclear why he believes this.

After some debate we decided to attend the meeting, which proved to be quite revealing, assuming that Fernando Cruz is telling the truth. Cruz revealed that the badge we found with a black rose and upside down cross is the symbol of the Black Rose, a splinter group of the Rosicrucian’s, set up to oppose that secret society. He also informed us that Inness’ father, Jorge Aquilla, had been working for him and his associates up until five years ago, when her father disappeared. Jorge Aquilla had been in Eisen searching a Syrne ruins for artefacts. It would seem he had found several such Syrne sites, which he has marked on the map using a numeric code of his own design. After updating us on Jorge Aquilla’s activities, Fernando Cruz offered to fund us if we were prepared to continue to investigate his mysterious disappearance.

We agreed to consider his proposal and returned to our accommodation, where we spent some time discussing it. I was the only one who voiced a reservation, as we cannot be sure whether or not Cruz is telling the truth, keeping in mind we do not know who he is working for. In the end we decided unanimously to take him up on his offer and arranged to meet him at our residence for diner the next evening. I recommended Sigrid negotiate the reparation as she is a merchant and thus the best suited to such matters. When we informed him of our decision and Sigrid asked him about the nature of our payment, he informed us that it depended on our level of involvement, which would range from a few local enquiries to a full search of Theah, for which we would have access to a ship, the Canary. After some thought we agreed to fully investigate the disappearance of Inness’s father, and to travel to Eisen, and where ever else the investigation took us. For which he offered us 100 Guilders, with a three-month advance, and 1000 Guilders for expenses.

I have finally got to grips with the nuances of the Vendellian language thanks to Sigrid, who has been helping me for the last few days. In return for her assistance I blessed her twice, to assist her with her combat and trade. I have no intention of revealing to her the problems the blessings have caused me.

Journal of Lady Anastasia de La Torre: Act Four (Gabe)  [top]

So much was going on yesterday that I overlooked a surprise event. As soon as the trade talks ended Hector declared that he had ceased to be Sigrid’s bodyguard. I am not sure if that was their original plan or if it was as much a surprise to her as it was to me. Whatever the case, Hector has accepted Fernando Cruz’s commission, so he is committed to the search for Jorge Aquilla.

Also, because I spent much of yesterday trying to decode the notes on the map we found in the chest, I overlooked the fact that the others had hired a fence yesterday to find and retrieve the missing diary. It just goes to show how difficult this code is to crack.

I spoke to Natalia, about our journey, explaining where I was going and that I might have to rough it, and she has began purchasing appropriate provisions.

Everyone except Edwardo has gone to the Canary to check the ship over. They were gone much longer than I expected, and in fact did not return until well into the evening. As it turned out, after visiting the ship, the went to the merchants guild were they gathered information about pirate activity, the best possible trade route to Eisen, and organised some goods to trade. Sigrid is a very capable merchant and I am sure will go far.

Sigismund stayed on the ship overnight, and Vladimir might have as well but I am not sure, the code is taking up so much of my time and energy that I am not paying as much attention to others as I usually do. I believe they returned to the ship and went to sort out other odds and ends. I did learn from Sigrid that they paid a visit to the fence, but as the Watch raided the residence Inness had originally been staying at after there was some sort of major disturbance there, the fence has put his investigation on hold.

Sigismund and Vladimir spent another night on the ship; perhaps they would otherwise have to pay for their accommodation.

Early the next morning the others began to ready themselves to board the ship. My maidservant had already prepared my belongings. We all went down to the ship as soon after breakfast as we could. It is a nice ship, not as big as the Albatross, but I was warned that space was limited, and we were going to be cramped.

The Captain, a Vendellian named Victor Ayendi, introduced himself to us as we were boarding the ship and showed us around the vessel. The only other person he introduced us to, and only to point him out, was his First Mate Brin, a large, well built, tattooed Vestenmannavnjar man standing at the front of the ship, and staring out to sea. After showing us to our quarters the Captain excused himself but not before inviting us to dine with him. The women have been quartered on one side of the ship, and the men have been quartered on the opposite end of the ship.

One thing of note, Sigismund has bought a hunting dog, which Vladimir spent some time talking too. I had no idea pyeryem sorcerers could talk to animals.

The first couple of days have been difficult for some us, myself included due to seasickness. I have made various excuses and tried to keep my illness a secret, claiming I need space to continue my work on the code. The last few days have confirmed that the others dislike me, perhaps because they think I am a liability, or are afraid of me. Whatever the reason, I do not want to show any weakness in front of them, even the Eisenian, who has been using his medical training to assist the others.

Once I, as the sailors would say, “got my sea legs,” I began spending more time on deck to stretch my legs and get some air, but I was careful not to get in the way of the sailors. While walking around the deck I overheard a number of worrying conversations about a sailor named Olaf, who the other sailors call, “fair weather Jack,” and who is always buy himself. I mentioned the conversations to Sigrid, who had noticed the same thing herself and made enquiries. Olaf is the Canary’s navigator, but has gained a reputation as a beacon for misfortune. Surprisingly though, he is such a good navigator that both the Captain and First Mate are prepared to overlook that fact.

The next couple of days went by very quickly. There has been little to say. From the beginning of the journey Vladimir has been sleeping on the floor outside our quarters. There are no bunks large enough for a man of his huge size, but he could have easily chosen to sleep on the deck. I really appreciate the gesture. Although I cannot be certain, Sigismund seems to be turning his attention to Natalia. Admittedly I could be wrong, as it may be because she was particularly ill, but considering how he feels about all Vodacce, I do not want Sigismund to hurt her. I intend to keep an eye on things.

Ever since I asked Sigrid to negotiate with Fernando Cruz on our behalf there has been a shift in the group, which was confirmed recently when I overheard Sigismund differing her as the leader more than once. Hector also, even though he is no longer her bodyguard. In fact, when I turned round and said I should be leader as the person with the highest status, Hector was directly rude to me. I have had to suffer discourtesy from various members of the group before, including the meetings with Cruz where no one offered me a seat, but even Sigismund has never been directly rude to me, and I know he hates Vodacce.

Anyway, it is interesting how I have become a kingmaker for this group, so far from my home country. My sisters would say that is the natural role for a sorte strega.

On the forth night out from Kirk we got attacked. I was awoken by something big striking the Canary, which I would later discover was a large fish of some sort. I could hear a lot of shouting from the deck, at least one sailor had fallen over board. Vladimir was banging on the door and shouting at us, even though I had no idea what he was saying, the tone of his voice was urgent. I threw on a warm coat and gloves, and headed up the stairs with Vladimir following behind me. Sigrid had already gone up, both Inness and Natalia chose to stay behind.

The ship lurched again, followed by more shouts from the deck, and the sound of gunfire. I fell backwards, to be caught by Vladimir. At this point I began to have second thoughts about going on deck, and started gripping whatever was in reach to secure myself. I managed to reach the nearest mast before the ship was struck again, but when the ship lurched I lost my grip and was thrown partially over the edge. Luckily, Vladimir was close enough to grab me, but because the ship was now leaning permanently to one side eve he was having problems. I then felt a hook tear through my clothing and I was pulled further on board. When I looked up I saw that Hector had hooked me with some sort of poll-arm. Hector may not like me, but I was right about him.

I may have lost my dignity, but I did not loose my life, Theus be praised. I am not sure whether the animal was killed or fled, but it stopped attacking the ship and I was able to get to my feet, and return to my quarters. I told Natalia and Inness what happened, and Sigismund, who came down to our cabin, was able to inform us of what I did not know. The remainder of the night was rough, no one slept, the sailors were working hard to bail out the ship. After day break the Captain sailed the Canary into a nearby cove on a nearby island. Even then sleep was impossible because the repairs had begun.

Sigismund came up with the idea of going for a walk and invited everyone. It was a very good idea so I took him up on his offer, along with some of the others. Near the cove was a quaint little village, surrounded by picturesque hills and fields.

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