<span class="bbc_size" style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Norman Black</strong></span>, Nosferatu<br/><br/>Norman took half a step backward to admit the newcomer to their small conversational circle. She was stunning, and based on the way she approached she wasn't unaware of the fact. In the society of the Kindred beauty was a devalued currency, the laws of supply and demand being inviolate even within their kind. Even within this rarefied crowd Ingrid drew the eye. Norman noted with a glance over her shoulder that several others were following her approach to him with interest.<br/><br/>Prior to his change it would be rare for him to speak to one such beauty, much less the two he was engaged with now. Given his present circumstance he imagined the visible effect must be similar to hanging a pair of Monets on the wall of an outhouse. Yet in the present hierarchy he knew that all three of them, despite disparate appearances, shared a place near the bottom of the heap. Of such tenuous connections alliances could be forged. The room, indeed the city was full of sharks. It made sense for the smaller fish to swim together.<br/><br/>He smiled, parting his lips only slightly to reveal a glimpse of eversharp, inhuman teeth. "It is no intrusion at all. Altagracia and I were just becoming acquainted. There are many I know only by names, numbers, reputations and digital images. It is good to make more direct contact from time to time."<br/><br/>Turn to face the two women equally he continued, "And please call me Norman. For one thing, it avoids the misperception of connection with those who share my surname." He gestured toward the table where the Harpies sat conversing. "It is important for us to keep our place, after all. Somehow I suspect the two of you might know that as well as any of us."<br/><br/>"I am always happy to discuss business. What did you have in mind?" Though he had grown used to his appearance he found himself wishing that the lights in the room were not quite so revealing.