Blind Beholder
The Blind Beholder sits squarely in the central Ward, near to the Pink Pearl. The establishment often allows traffic between the two, since gamblers are happy with a pretty partner to cheer them on. Afterwards, they can head over to the bordello to celebrate their winnings or find a shoulder to cry on. The gambling hall is in what was once two buildings built for housing along the row, but the adjoining walls were broken out and turned into the establishment as it now stands.
Defenses
Defenses: Esteban is quick with a blade, and has several hired bouncers to make sure that his funds and his dealers are protected. In addition, he has bought some magical protections in the way of a trapped lockbox with an alarm that alerts him as well as an acid mephit that is summoned should the command word not be spoken when the lockbox is opened.
History
The Gambling Hall is newer, having been opened up within the last five years. Esteban prefers that rowdiness stays outside, and makes sure the patrons are here for serious gambling.
Owner: Esteban the Honest. Esteban prides himself on his name and that his tables are clean from some of the cheating that happens at other establishments. He is quick to take offense at someone besmirching the Blind Beholder, at least as far as the house dealers. If others cheat, then he confiscates their winnings and splits 50% of them to the players at the table. The orc likes to talk with passersby and is a wicked dragonchess player.
Owning Organization: The Syndicate. The syndicate was not originally involved in the Blind Beholder, but has slowly begun investing its time and energy into the Hall. Esteban is willing to work with them, so long as they do not undermine his reputation. He ‘helps’ those down on their luck to get loans from his backers, which usually puts them into even deeper debt. The Syndicate seem happy with this arrangement and keep their distance, slowly investing in the ‘favors’ people will owe them down the road.
Tourism
There is plenty of local draw, as it is considered a good safe place to gamble. Esteban does not charge an outrageous cut from the top of winnings, and his Hall is filled with many willing to chance their earnings on instant wealth.