He's dead. By his own hand, if you can believe it. I'm afraid that means you've lost your bet. But some things are more valuable than money, aren't they?

I'd tell you to have patience, but really, I don't think it's necessary. I doubt his pool will take long to resolve at all.

I understand that serjo Llervas has withdrawn her recommendation of you. I won't be able to assist you with this matter any further.

Who said you did? You're just saying it's what you expect. If you're right, that's disappointing, but at least you've made some money. And if you're wrong, another number walks away with your drakes... but it doesn't feel so bad. I see it all the time. Between you and me, it almost seems like some of us enjoy losing more than winning.

You know where I'll be if you change your mind.

Excellent. I assure you, you'll be pleased with the results.

As I said, if you bet 12000 septims on Rivys' survival until the stock bid, you won't regret it.

First things first. How's your investigation into the love affair going?

Then I hope it won't offend you if I say I want nothing to do with that man.

If that's understood, I'll allow you to join -- provided you complete your initiation. New numbers are generally expected to bring interesting betting material with them, but I'd like you to help resolve a wager instead. Some among the club believe two servants at the Sixth Family Manor, Voldam Duros and Elyn Farenim, are engaged in a love affair. Find out the truth and return to us. You have permission to question them as you please.

Alvynu's word counts for quite a lot around here. But there seems to be a misunderstanding. We're gamblers, not murderers. Now, we do occasionally bet on the survival of certain people. And sometimes those people die, and money changes hands. But I'm sure we can both agree there's a difference.

I've heard of him. Why?

You've been expelled. I cannot discuss this with you.

He's not worth thinking about anymore.

Rivys has been a thorn in my side since he set up his first ebony mine. It's hard to believe I won't have to put up with his pathetic attempts at flattery anymore.

Rivys has been a thorn in my side since he set up his first ebony mine. It's hard to believe I won't have to put up with his pathetic attempts at flattery anymore.

Excellent. Rivys will no longer be a problem for us. And with the Beacon Company having more pressing things to spend their money on, I doubt they'll appear at the auction either. Thank you, %PCRank. Hopefully these greaves will serve as a suitable reward for all your hard work.

Excellent. Rivys will no longer be a problem for us. Once you've taken care of the Beacon Company's ship, House Hlaalu will be the only major player interested in the Hlaalu Council Company shares.

You killed him? Honestly, %PCRank, I find it hard to blame you. But I wanted it done through the Numbers Club for a reason. Maybe you should step away from this situation and let me handle the rest.

Arthiele Janois is dead? Do you have any idea the kind of people you've just antagonized? Get out of here, %PCRank. I don't have any more business for you.

The Numbers Club is situated on the secret second level of the Mesa Exchange, just above the trading floor. Rivys himself is probably also milling around the Exchange, but to prevent suspicion, it might be better if you don't interact with him directly.

It would be better for us all if Rivys was dead. However, in the interest of not appearing fractious, the deed should be done through unofficial channels. A group called the Numbers Club will do. In the Mesa Exchange, in the stairwell connecting the trading floor and dining room, you'll find a tapestry hiding a secret second floor. Go in and tell them I've recommended you as a member. They'll guide you through the rest.

Rivys Salavo is an ebony prospector whose success is owed less to business acumen than incredible luck. He is also, inconveniently, a member of House Hlaalu, although not one highly ranked or respected. His undermining of official House business is a desperate attempt to force himself into relevance among the Councilmen. It will not work.

Yes, he's our competition for an upcoming stock auction.