This story had to grow on me a bit, but after a while, I really liked what it was doing. This is a historical story, but in comparison to the other stories, it takes a more grim tone, which I can really appreciate.

Ian is the clear main focus of the story here. He has a (at times ridiculous) love for the tales of Sir Francis Drake during the Spanish inquisition. The true nature of history disappoints him, however, as he gets locked up for doing the right thing and helping an innocent bystander. This takes up the first part of the story, as the party tries to get him out. The doctor even dons clothes to fool the Spanish king, but, as a contrast to the Reign of Terror, fails miserably. This is the moment I realized the tone shift the story makes.

After the eventual freeing of Ian, the story sort of splits. We move on completely to a new story with Ian wanting to meet SFD. The shift is kinda rough and feels unnatural. Ian is finally freed, but without even seeing the party immediately moves on. It felt out of character.

The second part stands on its own as a version of “The Aztecs”, but for Ian. He meets his hero, but is thoroughly disappointed by his character and attitude. Combine that with the burning and killing of Cadiz, and you get quite a harrowing tale for the era.

If it had pushed its tone a little harder, or, in reverse, lead more into it, I think this could’ve been something truly special. For now it is still good, but noticeably clunky, which detracts from what it was going for.