- Matar Akari, a well-known and respected merchant specializing in the import and export of food was recently found dead, impaled upon one of the lower spires. He was last seen alive in the Hideaway. Matar’s grieving widow believes that he was murdered there, and that his body was tossed over the edge of the nearby skybridge. Some suspect that he was murdered by his competitor, another mildmannered food merchant, while others believe that he simply fell victim to a random act of violence. Alternatively, Matar may have been involved in some illicit dealings of which nobody else was aware.
- Beora Galidden, a half-elf widow somewhat past her prime, has recently taken up with Matthius Osleu, a young human courtesan. Beora’s husband was a longtime friend of Guillome Boromar, and the latter has been watching over the widow and her children and ensuring that their needs are met ever since Galidden’s untimely death. The courtesan strikes Guillome as the type of fop who would toy with Beora’s affections in order to acquire her wealth. Others agree with him, but Beora believes that Matthius has good intentions. Guillome is currently looking for someone willing to investigate the courtesan’s background and dealings and dispose of him discreetly if he is found to be duplicitous.
This establishment can best be described as a high-class
watering hole. The Hideaway makes most of its money
from travelers staying in the tower, but the city’s residents frequent it as well. It has a convenient location—on
the same floor as a skybridge and only about 100 feet
from it—and is a favorite destination for those wishing
to get away from their usual routines.
The Hideaway’s entire floor is covered with a thick, gray rug. The dark-stained wooden tables are sturdy yet elegant and built to seat either three or eight. The chairs have high backs and cushioned seats upholstered with a cream-colored fabric.
Many regulars consider imbibing alcohol to be the best entertainment available here, but the customers enjoy socializing as well. Because people are encouraged to mingle, boasting about adventures, genealogy, or businesses is common. Embellishment of the truth also occurs frequently, and many of the rumors floating around Sharn get their starts here. Occasionally patrons engage in drinking games or other activities that lead to later embarrassment.
Music and dancing are available for those who seek greater diversions than their comrades can provide. Sizable bands play here twice a week and during holidays, as well as on certain special occasions. When musicians are present, the tables that normally fill the front room are moved to the side to provide space for dancing.
The Hideaway is truer to its name than many would imagine. It is owned by Guillome Boromar, one of Sharn’s most successful crime lords. Guillome normally maintains a subdued presence here, content to sip wine and watch others entertain themselves, although he occasionally calls attention to famous guests or good friends. On occasion, however, he arranges meetings here with fences, assassins, and other criminal associates. These rogues hold conversations in the open, but out of earshot of the other patrons.
The Hideaway also provides a convenient way for Guillome to launder his money. Though it is true that his clan keeps the city guard paid off, Guillome still has enemies, some of whom would do anything bring him down. Guillome knows that if the flow of money into his coffers could be traced back to some illicit enterprise, he would have a difficult time avoiding justice, so he uses the Hideaway to account for the money he brings in. In fact, despite the popularity of this place, Guillome actually loses a small amount of money on it each month due to the rent he pays, the expensive drinks he imports, and the other costs that he must absorb. Even so, however, it is worth the investment because it shields him from the liabilities he would otherwise face.
Guillome Boromar is a stout, muscular man. He stands 5 feet tall and has a square jaw and jet black hair that he wears to collar length. He was born into money and, true to his family’s skills, has collected more through a number of criminal methods. Although Guillome surrounds himself with an entourage of very capable fighters, he is an intimidating foe all by himself—particularly since his countenance suggests that it might be hazardous to cause him any trouble.
Source: Web Supplement