Page 84 of A Master's Destiny
However, the course hasn’t only been concentrating on techniques and tools. Every step of the way, they have emphasized the dynamic of D/s and the necessity of maintaining a healthy relationship. The trainers expect us to leave this course knowledgeable and confident, as well as preparing us to become contributing members of the BDSM community outside of these walls.
It is with a mixture of sadness and nostalgia that I listen to Alana teach her final class.
Looking at us fondly, she begins, “Six weeks ago, you joined the Training Center to become an exceptional Dominant. Some of you came with little knowledge or experience, while others…” She glances at me. “…came with some knowledge but only limited experience.”
Her smile widens. “Today, I stand here looking at a group of Dominants I am honored to know. I have full confidence in your ability to lead and care for the submissives under your charge. As you move on from here, you will face challenges, but you have the resources and knowledge to navigate them. As with all of our graduates, you will become a respected part of our community here at the Center.”
She leans against her desk. “I feel it is appropriate on this last day to go over the fundamentals as you get ready to enter the community as a representative of the Dominant Training Center.”
She laughs lightly. “D/s is an interesting dynamic, isn’t it? Submissives hunger to please, and Dominants long to be pleased. It seems like a simple exchange, but as you have learned in class and experienced in the practicums over the last six weeks, it is far more complicated. As a Dominant, you must be comfortable with putting your needs and preference ahead of your submissive’s, while still making sure their needs are met.”
Pushing off the desk, she walks to the whiteboard. “These are some things I want you to remember as you set out on your journey.”
She writes on the board,Be honest about your limits.
“You need to acknowledge your hard limits. Some of you may be unaware of them until you are in the midst of a scene. That’s okay. Call your safeword. It’s important not to cross lines that you will regret later. The strength of a Dom isn’t determined by how far you are willing to go, but by how well you know your own limits.”
Alana then writes,Understand your motives.
“To be an effective Dominant, it’s important to dive into your darker side. Recognize any selfish hunger for power and control you carry inside. It’s normal to have darker urges. However, it is wrong to allow them to control you. Acknowledging they are there will help prevent you from crossing that line. When consciously explored, your darker needs can be integrated into a scene in a healthy and powerful way.”
She then writes,Be bold in your role as Master.
“It is important to be a strong leader as a Dominant. You must not only be good at communicating your desires and rules, but consistent in enforcing and correcting your submissive whenever necessary. If you show weak leadership, your submissive may feel the need to test you and they may lose interest.
“I cannot stress how vital this next one is.” Alana looks over her shoulder before writing it on the whiteboard,Be diligent when choosing a submissive.
“On the first day, we went over questions that are important to ask before your initial scene with a submissive. But, you also need to be aware that some people who engage in BDSM play are not emotionally or mentally fit for it. If you find they are unclear about their boundaries, if they do not communicate well, or seem emotionally unstable, find a more compatible partner. Your submissive should not only meet your physical needs but your emotional needs as well.”
She smiles at me when she writes the final one.It’s okay not to be perfect.
“When you make a mistake—and you will—be forthright and honest. By exploring BDSM with your submissive, you both accept an element of risk. When a mistake occurs, be quick to make corrections and repair any damage done. Due to the intense nature of the power exchange, and the fact that we are human, you are bound to experience uncomfortable or unpleasant moments. As a Dominant, you must own and accept responsibility, but not condemn yourself for it. Think of it as a path to greater growth.”
I smirk, knowing her last comment is meant for me. I’ll admit it—being a perfectionist at heart, the thought of failure is still like kryptonite to me. However, through taking this course, I’ve learned how to navigate a scene that’s gone badly, and the necessary steps to take afterward.
I have Ashford to thank for that…
Before leaving class, I walk up to Alana to shake her hand. “Thank you for setting the strong foundation I needed.”
She shakes my hand firmly. “It has been a pleasure having you in class, Mr. Davis. I’ve enjoyed your insightful questions.” She smiles, adding, “That insight will serve you well in the years to come.”
I nod, honored by the compliment. “I hate that class must end, but I will utilize everything you have taught me.”
Her eyes sparkle when she replies, “I am certain you will.”
For the final practicum, we enter the auditorium for the last time, and I sit down near the front of the stage with my fellow classmates. We are all curious who the final expert will be.
The trainers wait with us in silence.
When the auditorium doors open, we all turn to see Marquis Gray. “I apologize for being late,” he states in a formal tone.
As he walks down to the stage, I realize that Marquis radiates an inner confidence similar to what I felt when looking at the portrait of Little Wolf.
Marquis Gray snaps his fingers before reaching the stage. Immediately, a staff member walks up, placing a small silver chest in the center of the stage before bowing his head in respect to Marquis Gray and exiting.
The trainer mounts the stairs and turns to face us with his feet spread shoulder width apart and his hands behind his back.
Maestro Leo stands up and announces, “It is my pleasure to introduce Marquis Gray, a man renowned for his skill with the flogger, as well as being one of the trainers for the Center’s Submissive Training Program.”
