Marquis would appeal to dark, quiet fantasies, those who preferred to lurk in the shadows and were willing to pay the money to do so. Unlike Stronghold, voyeurs to the stage would be able to close the curtains on their own activities; each alcove had two sets—a translucent black curtain which would allow them to see out to the well-lit circular stage in the center of the room, and a thick, red velvet curtain which would completely block sight and muffle sound. There would still be Dungeon Monitors, of course, but it made the entire experience seem more clandestine, more illicit than the in-your-face exhibitionism and voyeurism of Stronghold. Also the DMs of Marquis would be wearing suits, unlike those at Stronghold who could pretty much wear what they liked as long as they also had their DM badge on.

The contrast would serve both clubs well.

It would also serve his new partnership well.

The fees for a membership to Marquis were very high. Originally they’d wanted those with Stronghold memberships to be able to come fairly regularly, but when Luke had thrown his money into the pot they’d realized how expensive everything was going to be. Ultimately, they’d decided Stronghold members would able to visit Marquis once a month using their regular membership; Marquis memberships, on the other hand, allowed unlimited visits to both clubs. Stronghold members could still come to Marquis more than once a month if they wanted, but they’d have to pay an extra fee.

Many of the members of the new club were paying the hefty prices for the higher security and discretion Marquis provided, as well as its luxurious atmosphere, theatrical demonstrations, and overnight capabilities. Business owners, politicians, actors and actresses—people with something to lose—were the clientele. They wanted to know they were in private and able to be themselves, without having to worry about being recognized, photographed, or gossiped about.

Anyone entering the back stairs of Marquis would have to sign a nondisclosure. Anyone breaking it would be black listed, not just from Stronghold and Marquis, but from any clubs Patrick knew the owners or managers of—so basically the person would need to move about three states away. Patrick was thorough in his protection.

“It looks good.” Michael’s voice made Luke turn to see the other man entering the room, his girlfriend and submissive Ellie by his side, her small hand tucked into his larger one as it often was. Luke smiled at them in welcome. Michael was tall and lean and Ellie was petite and curvy. They both had dark hair, but Ellie’s was nearly black and her creamy pale skin was much lighter than Michael’s, who managed to look at least a little tan no matter what time of year it was. “The finishes are amazing. I’m glad we went with the darker metal for the cuffs and chains, it blends in a lot better.”