Betting and Bookies: The Aether-Sphere Underworld

While the "Truce of the Sphere" keeps the peace between armies, the betting pits of Aether-Sphere are a different story. Gambling is the lifeblood of the league's economy, and for many, a single match can mean the difference between a life of luxury and the debtor's mines.

Finding a Bookie

Bookies can be found in almost every tavern, but the most reputable (and dangerous) operate in the Grand Conduit or the backrooms of the Gilded Vein Syndicate.

The "Street" Bookie: Small bets (max 50 gp), pays out 1:1.
The "Syndicate" Bookie: High stakes (up to 5,000 gp), variable odds.
The "Whisperer": Sells "insider info" (Advantage on Insight checks regarding the match) for a steep price.

Generating Odds

Before a match, the DM determines the "Spread." Roll 1d20 for each team and add their "Team Power Modifier":

Ironclads/Arcanists: +5
Terrors/Fangs: +3
Gilded Corsairs: +4
Underdogs: +0

The team with the higher total is the Favorite. The difference between the totals is the Spread.

Payouts: Betting on the Favorite pays 1:1 (plus the original bet). Betting on the Underdog pays 2:1 or higher if they win by more than the spread.

Fixing the Match (Cheating)

Players may attempt to influence the outcome of a match through several means:

Bribery: A Charisma (Persuasion) or (Deception) check vs. the referee's Insight. Success grants a +2 modifier to the favored team's "Power" roll.
Sabotage: A Dexterity (Stealth) or (Sleight of Hand) check to tamper with a star player's gear or the stadium's gravity rings.
Mental Influence: Using Suggestion or Message on a player during a critical moment (requires a successful Stealth check to avoid detection by Peace-Wards).

Consequences of Debt

If a player cannot pay a lost bet, the bookie will send "Debt-Collectors."

Tier 1: A group of thugs (CR 1/2) roughs up the player.
Tier 2: The player's gear is "repossessed" (stolen) during a long rest.
Tier 3: A bounty is placed on the player by the Gilded Vein Syndicate or the Sea Wolves.