1. The Baudelaires are sent to live with their Aunt Josephine, a woman terrified of everything. The children are immediately suspicious of their aunt, especially when she refuses to leave her house despite a storm approaching.
2. Josephine's fear escalates. As the storm grows, Josephine becomes increasingly paranoid, believing the storm will bring a variety of dangers, including a man-eating fish and a "dastardly" villain.
3. The Baudelaires discover clues about their parents. Violet discovers a hidden message from their parents, hinting at a secret organization and a plan to reunite. This motivates them to investigate further.
4. The Baudelaires encounter Count Olaf in disguise. Count Olaf, disguised as a "seaman" named "Captain Sham," arrives at Josephine's house, pretending to be a rescuer during the storm.
5. Josephine's death. Olaf manipulates Josephine into fleeing her house during the storm, leading her to her death by falling into the ocean.
6. The Baudelaires escape. The children realize Olaf's true intentions and escape from his clutches, leaving behind a note for their parents revealing their location.
The rising action culminates in Josephine's tragic death, leaving the Baudelaires orphaned again and raising the stakes for their continued escape from Count Olaf's grasp.