One of the others--Master Jacob--led the club's newest addition out. Tall and muscular, with ebony hair to his waist and dark gold eyes, the slave scanned the crowd slowly, as if taking stock of the clientele--Masters and their slaves, and even some unaccompanied Masters. Not by a single flutter of an eyelash did any semblance of nervousness show on his part. There was a glimmer of respect within those eyes, but anything else had to be won.

"My friends," Master Jacob announced after stopping in the center of the room, "I present our newest member to you: Nathaniel. I have known him for many years and he has always expressed an interest in our lifestyle. I hope he finds what he is looking for here."

Within the group, more than one pair of interested eyes turned to look at Nathaniel. With a casual glance over the newest addition, Raphael noted the unusual coloring of golden eyes. As he stepped forward, he said quietly, "Welcome, Nathaniel."

A quiet murmur of welcome followed his words from the others. The comfortable atmosphere of the club was by deliberate design. Several of the subs moved silently among the others serving drinks, while others remained by their respective masters. None, however, approached Raphael, except to offer him a drink. He took one of the glasses of champagne and raised it towards Nathaniel in toast.

Nathaniel smiled, taking care to hide the canines well. Aside from Jacob, no one knew of his true nature, and despite his race's tendencies, he preferred not to terrify anyone.

"Thank you, Master Raphael," he said in a quiet, respectful voice. His gaze lifted, meeting briefly with Raphael's before lowering once more.

Jacob stepped up beside Nathaniel and handed him a glass. Nathaniel thanked him, then sipped slowly, forcing the nervousness back inside, where it could not be seen. Heavens above; if any of his kind saw him now, he would be hunted, seen as weak.

Deliberately, Raphael maintained no more than a mild expression as he watched Nathaniel. "We hope you find what you are looking for here as Master Jacob said. You are free to make your own decisions, no matter how long that may take."

With a chuckle, Jacob said, "You'll find no pressure here, Nathaniel. Master Raphael tends to be extremely strict about the club rules. And if you have any questions, you can always ask either of us."

"Thank you both," Nathaniel said with a nod. Jacob directed him to one of the tables and Nathaniel sat down, grateful to be out of the limelight as the others began milling about once more. He sipped slowly on his champagne, simply watching.