Shadow Academy - Library

Library

Over the years Headmaster Wolf has written many essays on various BDSM topics. His essays, posts, and missives are read and reread the world over. Here you will find an archived collection of some of his favorite pieces. Whether you are a new fan to Headmaster Wolf's writing or a dedicated follower, you won't want to miss a word. Be sure to bookmark this page and visit Headmaster Wolf's blog.

Some Thoughts for the Dominant
The Beast and the Dark Side
Orgasms on Command - Counting Down to Ecstasy
Dungeon Etiquette
Terms and Definitions

What I Like - Headmaster Wolf
Commands and Positions
“I’m registered, now what?” Events and Etiquette
Dungeon First Aid Manual
A Gift?

Some Thoughts for the Dominant

A man once asked Mozart how to write a symphony. Mozart told him to study at the conservatory for six or eight years, then apprentice with a composer for four or five more years, then begin writing a few sonatas, pieces for string quartets, piano concertos, etc. and in another four or five years he would be ready to try a full symphony. The man said, "But, Mozart, didn't your write a symphony at age eight?" Mozart replied, "Yes, but I didn't have to ask how." ::Smile:: Quite a quote and one you may hear from a Dominant, Yes we are born this way, but we all have to start somewhere, learning is the most important skill for a Dominant without it we fail to be a "Good" Dominant.

So what is a Good Dominant?
(What follows is my opinion and in no way states that Mine is the only path to follow, there are many differing opinions out there and I suggest you seek them all. I use the male pronoun as I am MALE though a Dom or Domme is male or female.)

What should a Dominant be?
(The question can only be answered individually, by both submissive and Dominants alike. But here is my rendition of what a Dominant should strive to be.)

The Dominant should be in control of Himself first and foremost, He is confident, caring, and understanding, He does not allow ego to get in the way of learning, both about Himself and his submissive, He knows how to love, and how to cherish the gift given to Him.

When the Dominant meets a new submissive He is kind and guiding without demanding ritual of her, He does not demand respect, He earns it, He explores her mind first, learning her strengths, He does not seek to seduce her , but gets to know her as a person first, building a relationship, slowly discovering if there is to be one.

If He is a good Dominant, He does not do this to gain another submissive, but only because He is able to befriend someone, without the trappings of sexuality, He is not a predator, but a teacher, willing to pass His knowledge with little or no reward, but the pleasure of knowing He can, and the satisfaction of helping someone define their own path.

If the time comes when she offers herself to His service, the Dominant is the first to question her decision, to ask her to look into herself and discover if He is what she really wants. He is the first to mention Safety, to volunteer references, and to tell her to seek more. He supports safe calls and public meetings first, her safety is foremost in His mind at this beginning. If He decides to take the submissive into service, He is the first to mention negotiation, to offer his own personal information. He realizes the danger
she could be in if placed in the wrong hands, and seeks to guide her in protecting herself, He does not dismiss her worries, for He knows her risks are all to real.

He knows His safety also depends on honesty & communication. He is at first only as protective of Himself He needs to need be, but open and honest about His life, His tastes, what He expects. He knows that she will be taking a leap of faith, and is supportive of her.

To possess her He Knows He must first earn her respect, to do this He must prove He is what He says he is, that He cares for her, that He would push her limits only to build her strengths, that He is willing to spend the time to learn her as a person first, then as a submissive. He knows how wonderful this gift is that she offers, and is willing to live up to her trust in Him. To this end, He talks with her, learning her secret needs and desires, and in turn expressing His own, always ready to affirm her worth, to Him, and to herself, increasing her confidence in herself, and in the gift she gives, gently pushing her limits to show her she can be more than she feels she is, that she can go farther than she ever thought possible, Slowly opening the flower of her submission, coaxing her passion for Him into full bloom.

If she lacks self esteem He shows her He respects her and finds her worthy of His time. He shows her she has beauty in His eyes, thus she is beautiful. He focuses on her strengths, to show her of her own power. He softly explains that the gift she gives is the most wonderful gift of all, herself. He takes the time to learn her soul, before thinking of learning her body, as the Dominant learns his new submissive, a connection takes place allowing Him to sense her desires, her needs, her passions. With this new knowledge, the
Dominant is able to take his submissive to new heights of pleasure, to guide her and walk with her as together they seek new levels of love and fulfillment.

In taking a submissive into His service the Dominant takes on many responsibilities. He pledges to help guide her in her path, not only in the bedroom, but in life. He pledges to be there for her when she needs Him, to care for her, ease her pain when she is depressed, comfort her when she is ill, assist her in overcoming her fears and worries, to hold and love her when she needs affection. He does this because He can, for this is His gift to her... Her gift given willingly, His returned with joy, He seeks to understand her mind, to gaze into her soul, because only then can the two become more than each can be as they are as individuals. She is His most precious possession and He strives to prove His love, much the way she will, every day.

The Dominant does not seek to change His submissive into what He wants, but revels in the chance to show her what she can become. He enjoys showing her those strengths she already possesses, and simply guides her, helping her to grow into the person she wishes to be. He coaxes her into finding her own path, but never states outright what that path should be. Once found, He will keep her to her task, gently pushing her to become the woman He knows she can be.

Is there a profile of the perfect Dominant?
I think not -- perfection is something we all strive to obtain, but never reach. It is the struggle to find perfection that makes a good Dominant. There is no one description of a good Dominant; just as beauty is in the eye of the beholder, no viewpoint is wrong, merely different. All that can be said is that a good Dominant should have the good qualities that include strength, ability, confidence, control, the ability to learn and the presence of mind to know that He can always learn more. He should be, loving, encouraging, honorable and chivalrous, He should respect and cherish women and show the respect to others that He himself wishes to be shown.

The Dominant should be sure of Himself, and in that confidence not think that to build himself He must look down at others. He should be sure of His ideals, but not so sure that His way is the only path. He can allow others to follow their own paths, no matter how different, without ridicule. If He witnesses a wrong he seeks to right it, but without pressing the view that His way is the only one, only expressing the danger of another's action or offering His assistance to help guide them out of danger.

He knows the difference between punishment and play, between pain and sensation. He never exerts His power in anger, He never brings anger and hostility into a scene. He does not use this gift to vent His anger, but leaves outside concerns outside. He knows that to control others He must first master Himself.

He can exercise His art to help His submissive become the woman she has always been, deep within her spirit. He takes her gift of submission seriously, knowing that it is not given blindly or lightly. He always remembers how precious the gift is, how rare it is, how beautiful it is. For she has given him something that cannot be taken, but must be given, the gift of herself, her soul, and the Dominant should cherish that gift as the rare jewel it is.

The submissive should be firm in her femininity. She offers herself to the Dominant freely, of her own choosing. She gives the gift of her submission in exchange for His love, care, knowledge and protection. She obeys because she chooses to, not because she is forced to. She comes to Him a woman, but unsure of her role, seeking His guidance, and is quick learn what is expected of her. With this learning, and as He opens Himself to her, she begins to give more of herself, of her soul, her secrets, until all the two can share is learned, building their relationship, sharing their secrets and souls, so they may walk this path together.

There is no power lost, no control wrested from her, she gives willingly, the Dominant giving of Himself until an immense measure of trust is built between the two. The sub must trust her Dominant completely in order to give so much of herself to Him, and, the Dominant must trust the sub in order for Him to accept her and her gift.

"Training" (just another word for teaching) is only the process of learning what the Dominant desires. The sub must learn when to kneel, how to sit to please her Dominant, how to address her Dominant, and so on. She does these things because she wishes to, her wish is to please her Dominant in all ways possible. Even the most "bratty" submissive comes to know just what is expected of her and what her Dominant's limits are.

It is said that the Dominant holds all of the control, and in some ways He does, but this is a consensual relationship. The Dominant holds control, but only as far as the Submissive is willing to go. He may push her limits for the pleasure of both. However, the Submissive can walk away at anytime, hard as that may be, if the Dominant loses sight of her needs. It is said that the submissive has no responsibilities, but a deeper observation shows otherwise. It has been said by many, that the Dominant holds all the responsibilities; however, many of the submissive’s responsibilities are so subtle as to be overlooked. She must please her Dominant, she must act as He would wish, as her every action reflects on her Dominant. She must uphold His honor, as He must uphold hers while protecting her. She must have faith and trust in her Dominant, just as He must prove her trust well founded. She needs the strength of will to know when her Dominant is acting in her best interests, and be willing, without embarrassment, to do as He asks her within her limits. Because that is what her Dominant wants and what she wishes; to please Him she would do that which seems difficult and even embarrassing at the time. She must not follow blindly, but see that what her Dominant asks of her is for the pleasure of them both.

At times the Dominant may understand that the sub can go farther that she thought, and with the use of safe words, He is able to take her there. For the beginning of all relationships it is most important to abide by the perceived limits, it must be taken slowly. If a safe word is used and the Dominant does not heed the submissive's perceived limit, then an important trust is broken. The use of safe words should be stressed in any new relationship so that the trust and understanding are able to grow. With time and understanding, however, the two can reach a point where the Dominant knows how far the submissive can go physically, emotionally, and spiritually and the submissive can come to trust her Dominant's decisions. Even then a safe word is still an important safety net. It can be dropped in session, but a worthy Dominant still holds the value of using safe words in new and uncharted territory, even in a long standing and trusting relationship. The caring Dominant knows He cannot read minds, even if He knows His
submissive extremely well.

The submissive has a wonderful role to live with the right Dominant. With Him, she will grow emotionally and spiritually into what she wishes to become, learn to love freely and unconditionally and find the true power deep within her. The Dominant also becomes the man He feels within his soul, proud to be able to walk the honorable path of Teacher, Poet, Warrior and Protector. Proud of His charge and the pleasure they bring each other. Together the two will embark on a journey that will take them out of the realms and limits of society and into the timeless dimensions of the Universe.

LordWolf00 1997 --This text has been given to many a newcomer wanting information on the BDSM lifestyle and wanting to learn more about how to become better in their roles. Many, many thanks to Headmaster Wolf for writing it and making it available!

What I Like - Headmaster Wolf

A few thoughts on what I like in my BDSM, and the new leather movement:

Training should be structured, challenging, and intense, but not the end all and be all of life.
Significant leather items are earned from another as a sign of advancement and skill level, not purchased for oneself.
Mirth is always welcomed when it's appropriate. If you can't laugh at yourself, you should be laughed at.
Information and skills should be shared between leather folk openly. When asked teach. Don't hoard skills, or knowledge.
Room should be made for those with different views, even if they are very different from yours.
Switches should be welcome as viable members. We all switch to some degree, even if it's just looking up to a fellow top you respect.
Protection of leather folk should be commonplace among its own, with the community caring for those who are hurt. When attacked from the outside community, we should come together as one. Putting aside our differences, without the fear of being outed, ridiculed, or taken advantage of. As members of a "fringe" group we need to band together in this way.
Novices should be respected and encouraged without critique. We were all new once. If people are willing to say "I don't know," we should be willing to say "let me show you".
Participants should reveal their level of expertise up front, and not make claims to knowledge they do not have to "look good".
All parties should be considered equals until negotiated otherwise. We should interact as people first, and as Tops and bottoms second.
Skill is not determined by length of experience, but rather by quality of skill. Some have been doing the wrong thing for a long time.
Aftercare is a prerequisite. Without this, we show no compassion. Aftercare is the most important part of the scene because it is there that the bonding takes place, and we show we are a caring, loving, and humane.
The idea that in D/S the dominant has no care for the desires of the submissive should be killed. These relationships are an exchange. Not only of power, but of the willingness to please each other. Let's admit it.

The Beast and the Dark Side

Yes, I know of the beast, and of the dark side. The dark inhabits my dreams, my fantasies. Rape, non-consensual acts, pain, the total control of a human being, even darker subjects. All dwell in the twisted passages of my mind. I find myself, late into the night running these fantasies over and over, the beast whispering of the excitement they bring. I always whisper back to the beast, knowing in my heart of hearts that the fulfillment of these desires would be the end of me. No, it’s not the idea that I could not actually DO these things to someone, or that if I did I would be caught, brought to justice, jailed, and perhaps killed. Like most any wild rampant "beast" there is no fear of these things. Beasts hunt with wild abandon. It is the knowledge that if I did give in to any of my silent fantasies in reality. It would only cause others pain, destroy others lives and that I cannot do. That I could never do .... I would take my own life first.

Perhaps had I lived in ages past, raised in a different more barbaric world with different views, I suppose I would have sated my dark desires a different way. I may have lived my dark fantasies as many men have throughout the centuries have done. Taking from others thought less then themselves. All with a perfect bliss that they were either sainted or damned but cared not. Even the knights templar whose ideals, or perceived ideals I choose to follow in my own life, were in fact not much more that rapists, murderers and mercenaries. The ideals are sound, if not the men who thought to follow them.

Because I know I could not live with the pain I would cause, I could never allow the beast free reign to do these things. Honor, morals, a personal belief in love and the right of a human being would never allow me to stoop to that level of the pit. So in fact I bargain with the beast. I seek I find a way to do this with love. Am I a sadist? Well perhaps, I enjoy sadistic acts. But to me "sadist" denotes a person who enjoys giving pain, without a care about the person they commit those acts upon. I enjoy giving pleasure, at times in the form of pain, so I came up with my own description of whom and what I am. One that speaks of what is most important to me, "consensual sensation artist". I did this because I, like others, seek to define myself. Artistic because sensation, like lovemaking, is an art that needs to be refined. Consensual because above all else there must not only be consent but pleasure. For my honor, for my soul. The person I create a session with must enjoy what I do. If not, if it really feels as if they are not enjoying themselves or are doing something they hate to please me alone, I stop. The thrill is gone for me. Unless the "hating of it" is what they enjoy ::smile:: I enjoy pleasing people. Artist because this is my art, this is what I seek to excel at.. To paint a picture of desire and release. Am I a sadist, yes and an animal? Because it is the beast I feed, and I know in my soul that the "Human animal" is at its very core, only that, an animal.

Does this mean I do not visit my "dark side"? No not at all this is how I go there, to my darkest fantasies. By tossing my beast scraps I control him. Much like an attack dog on a leash or a loaded gun. Powerful, but harmless, unless you lack the will to control them. Should that day ever come when I feel the control lapse, when I feel My "Dom Space" controls me instead of my controlling the beast inside me, I will walk away and never look back.

I was lucky, in my youth, to stumble onto an outlet for my beast. I received an invitation to a "gathering" from one of my acquaintances. It was held in one of the big, old Victorian style houses in the nicer part of town. I went, met a lot of Interesting people, and wandered about the ordinary house. In time built up the nerve to enter the basement. It was huge and had been converted into a dungeon. The door opened to a large raw red brick hall, containing a two level staircase that descended into the dimly lit interior. Candles tossing light from wrought iron sconces. At the end of the staircase, a large oak door.

Inside that door felt like opening the portal to some raw past. The air very warm, almost humid and containing a charge as if electrified. Haunting music piped in. Cold cement floors and bare brick walls. Painted sheets of plywood and cloth created dark narrow twisting walkways among the red-lit play spaces. It was like a maze with a haunted house atmosphere. To my right a huge bare chested man wore a bright red tag naming him "DM" dungeon master, roamed the dungeon with his flashlight... Monitoring the various spaces. The first space I passed as I walked was empty except for a few couches and daybeds arranged about the small room. When I left a few hours later, it was a pile of bodies and limbs, locked together, impossible to tell how many. But now the night was young, the room empty and the beast was wallowing in the sites, smells and sounds all about me.

A few steps, an immense man was completely hooded and tied to a post. Two women had covered his chest and belly with clamps and were preparing to pull the "zipper" or string that attached them all together. A few steps further a young blond woman in a schoolgirl’s outfit being held over the knee of her stern English sounding “teacher". Just beyond them, a young woman fastened her girlfriend into a suspension sling and began whipping her. To the other side, a man in policeman yellow stripe pants and motorcycle boots was switching between a vampire glove and a violet wand on a woman tied down to a block table. Later, he would do a quite intense flogging that seemed sensual and evil at the same instant.

Emboldened, I proceed a little further, my eyes wide and my heart racing. A man in stocks being paddled... A woman stretched out on a chain rack being whipped... A man ordering his kneeling partner into a cage. Later when he took her out of the cage, he tied her to a cross and was temp-piercing her breasts. Scenes changed in the spaces as the evening progressed and more people showed up I watched all I could and chatted with these amazing people, these people like me. All this was just on my first tour through that one dungeon.

I felt at home. I watched, listened. Entranced in a state of mental wildness and clarity, divorced from reality and time. The beast walking beside me, within me, speaking, observing and mingling with demons and monsters and beasts, with pain and fear and a distortion of lust, and I was at home!!. I wondered who in the hell I was that this could feel natural and comforting. The heat and screams, the sweat and the bright red welts and the eyes...oh the eyes on these people.... It wasn't pretty or clean or light-hearted. It was raw and hot and sometimes ugly and unlike any world I'd ever seen, and I was happy to be there. I was alive, home. Home in this place of sweat and fear, of pain and pleasure, rapture and orgasm. Here was power; here was the open soul of the human animal basking in the light of its own sexuality. Here they were rejoicing in that which is forbidden. Ohh, Yes I let the beast prowl, I let it roam and hunt, I allowed it to slaver and dream, but always tethered, always in my control. I know I can never allow the beast free rein. I can never allow it to follow its own instincts, because the danger is always there. The danger that I would never again be able to tether it to my will, that it would control me.

I do as I have from that night, I guard the beast and until the day that part of me, that particular sweaty demon becomes too much for me to handle. I wield my "art". I seek to excel, I strive to bring those I chose as my partners to new heights of pleasure, new extremes of sensation. I watch their reactions, the sweat as it rolls down their glistening bodies. Listen to their moans. Watch them writhe with pleasure and at times fear. Knowing all the while that they enjoy my art, I ask them repeatedly if they do, rewarded with a sigh, a smile and a breathy "Yeeesssss". For at the heart of my true self I seek to create, not destroy. I seek to become a "master" at what I do, because the beast aside, my pleasure aside, the true meaning of a master, to me, is to excel at something. In this life, this realm of BDSM what you excel in is the giving of ultimate pleasure.

One day I may feel the control slip. I don’t see that day close. In fact I don’t see it at all. But I am ever watchful of the day when the beast is more than I can control. We all have a beast. Those that control it are out here, walking free. Those that do not control that side of themselves are locked away in dark prisons and deserve to be. Its all perspective I guess. Perhaps some of us just have the ability to see what we truly are; to cage that which we know must be caged. But is that the difference? Is this the "essence" of the difference between those who control these desires and those who act with no limits upon these desires? Can the difference between evil and good simply lie in knowing your evil?

Is honor at the core? The will to "do no harm", or is it legality and civilization the influences control? To me the former seems stronger than the later, but these are issues that are not often discussed. Who wants to look their beast in the eyes? Who wishes to risk feeling the fear that lives there? However, it must be discussed. We must not only discuss the desire to do these things, but the reasoning behind rationalizing it. Not only to ourselves but to others, as well.

Look deep into the whys and wherefores of what you do. Make sure you have a tight reign on your "beast" and think. Not only about the why you wish to do so in the first place, but about why you feel you have the right to act upon these dark desires. Not rationalizing it by stating "they wish me to" or someone enjoys it. Myself I seek to do this out of not only love, but to sate the beast. Toss him a crumb and therefore control him, lest he overcome me. I ask you. Please answer the question as well for yourself. Be sure of the whys, and the why not’s of what you wish to do. Once clear in your mind it’s easier to communicate it to others.

I can also speak from the other side of the coin -- that of the person on the receiving end of the "darker" needs and emotions that are channeled through a BDSM matrix. Actually, I should say that I don't believe these are "dark" feelings or desires. I think they are a fact of one's personality, much the same way eye color is a fact of one's physical reality. As fact, they must be dealt with. It is, after all, the hiding that does the damage, not the whip (regardless of whether you wield the whip or receive the lash). It seems to be a quirk of human nature, this desperate need to label and quantify and qualify everything. Modern science and technology have created the illusion that we CAN know everything, but it is just an illusion. Labeling things "light" and "dark" or "good" and "bad" based on one's own personal tastes and conditioning (and it is no more than that) is just a convenience for small minds.

I have found and been told that one of the joys and satisfactions of submission -- and they are many -- regards the ability to be able to provide an outlet through which one can express their "dark" (for lack of a better term) desires. To be fulfilled not only by their happiness, but because the submissive’s own cravings are satisfied this way. It is not a game by any means, not a "kink", and certainly not abuse! It is but a mesh of complementary needs, where people are able to reveal to each other those facets of ourselves that we dare not with others. and a place to accept these qualities in each other as part of the complete and complex human beings we are, not qualifying them as "good" or "bad."

Like many in this life (and many more who find other paths), I have survived my own personal guided tours of hell. But I cannot agree that an abusive past is a factor in my craving for BDSM. These things do not lead to a desire for dominance or submission, nor the SM matrix. I know I had the needs and the desires and the fantasies long before my trip with Charon down the Styx. But in addition to satisfying these darker needs, the style of my relationships at times leads to a healing process. It is, in part, the open and willing exploration of the unspoken (perhaps even unspeakable) side of our natures that draws me to this life. It is a measure of the growing strength and resilience of a submissive’s will to submit and with grace. It is a way to learn to trust and love again. After all that may have been taken away or lost in the vanilla world of no communication. To know that one can offer release and relief to another gives one a sense of self. This life, for me, is not a symptom, but a cure. Perhaps I have been fortunate enough to find it because that is what I went looking for. (And perhaps those who see only despair and degradation here are simply finding what they expect to find.) In what we do, there is respect, and love, and tenderness... even in the exploration of 'non-consensual' consensual scenes. It is also very exciting.

I do not speak for those I have found and pursued these relationships with but I feel fortunate that I and those I have connected with have found each in the other, our complementary opposite, the other half that makes the whole possible. We are even more fortunate to have found in the other a friend. I have often thought of the many things I would change in my past if I were able. But all those things helped shape the person I am now. And the person I am now has been able to find love in unlikely places, forge joy from the fires of hell, come to an understanding with my beast, and even teach him to love.

Commands and Positions

Disclaimer: Now, none of this is needed for fun and safe D/S or SM play but a lot of people like the idea of training and formal positioning. It is an area that most people don't pay a lot of attention to. What follows are the guidelines I use in such training; I want it said though, that BDSM is a buffet, you take what you like and leave the rest. That having been said, these positions and commands are great for those seeking structure in their training. I usually don't use such formal protocol in my household, but it does come in handy when I want to “Show Off" the presence and training of a charge under my care. It also boosts the spirit of the charge to be able to show that they have good knowledge of such commands. In the Leather community putting a charge though such paces is a long standing ritual at gatherings. And it is an ego boost for both the Master and their charge.

Attend: "Attend" it is usually followed by another direction such as, "attend me" or "attend to the needs of so and so". The slave or submissive may be required to bring or fetch items, food, drinks or other services as required and or desired by the Dominant. Should the Dominant direct the slave or submissive to "attend" another Dominant, the slave or submissive will, within limits, be of service to them as if he or she would be serving their own Master or Mistress. Sometimes this task of "attending" is a test of obedience, loyalty and honesty. The slave or submissive is recommended to be obedient, loyal and honest at all times, as it reflects upon the Master or Mistress at all times, as well as to the degree of training the slave or submissive has achieved.

Rest: This is the most frequently used and given command to the slave or submissive. The Dominant will designate a spot for the slave or submissive to rest and relax while at the Dominant's left side. It is taxing for a slave or submissive to remain in a kneeling position so therefore this command is given to assume a comfortable position. To assume the position hearing “rest”, the slave or submissive will immediately go to the proper designated spot and sit comfortably. This however does not mean the slave or submissive is to lie down, slouch or be sloppy. The slave or submissive will be ready to give service upon any command.

Restrict: Immediately, bring his or her arms to the small of the back, placing the wrists together to be bound or cuffed. The slave or submissive may have this command associated with other directions such as kneeling, laying down. Such as "Kneel and restrict"

Gather/Get: When the slave or submissive hears this command, the slave or submissive will focus on the directions or instructions intently, and the description, location and the items specified to be brought back directly to the Dominant. The slave will not detour, mingle, socialize, or delay in going to that item, or to return with that item and immediately present that item to the Dominant.

Silence: Is a clear command for the submissive to lower their eyes and be silent. When a submissive hears this they have made some mistake, or the Dominant just wishes them not to speak until told otherwise.

Come: The slave or submissive will cease activity and immediately and without hesitation or delay, go to the Master or Mistress when the order to "come" is given. This signal can also be a hand gesture as well as the verbal or the combination of both. This requires the slave or submissive to be ever watchful and alert in the area of his or her Master or Mistress. This order is not to be confused with having an orgasm.

Crawl: The slave or submissive when given this command will crawl on hands and knees to the place where pointed or directed to, without delay or hesitation. Once at that spot the slave or submissive will remain on their hands and knees until otherwise directed.

Dismissed: The Dominant will "dismiss" the slave or submissive as a command or discontinued service. If "Dismissed" for the rest of the day, the Dominant will be sure that this is understood, as to permit the slave or submissive to attend to his or her real life personal, social functions and affairs and maintain a place of employment or other important affairs. The slave or submissive is responsible to advise the Dominant ahead of time that a slave or submissive is required at the job at a certain time or any details like doctor's appointments as to allow the Dominant to have the required service as well as keeping the slave or submissive happy and healthy.

Present: At times in public or private arenas a Dominant may wish to "present" his/her charge. At these times a Submissive/slave will stand or kneel as ordered, and cross their wrists behind their back, head level, eyes lowered. This is an oft issued command when a Dominant wants to "show off" His/Her submissive. The charge should have good posture and a proud stance stomach in and back straight.

Display: Display often follows present. When the slave or submissive hears this command of "display," he or she will display the body in a predetermined style as listed below and or selected by the Master or Mistress. Since there are several selections of "Display," the slave and submissive will be familiar with all of them and within physical ability to take those positions. The Display Positions are as follows:

English Classical Display: Kneeling with thighs parted wide, arms raised and hands interlocked behind the neck, buttocks resting on the heels, back is straight, head up and eyes down in respect. The breasts or chest will be displayed openly for view and inspection, with the womanhood or manhood clearly exposed and open as well.
Modern Classical Display: Standing with legs spread apart shoulder width, arms raised and fingers laced behind the neck, with eyes down in respect, back and shoulders straight and elbows back as to expose the breasts or chest.
Informal Display: Standing with legs apart shoulder width, with hands placed into the small of the back and crossed, head up and eyes forward, back straight and shoulders back and square, much like the military's "parade rest".
Gorean Display: Sitting on heels, lean back until your shoulders rest on the ground and keeping legs wide apart, place your hands over your head with wrists crossed.

Formal Inspection Position:

In some settings a Dominant may wish to inspect or have others inspect his charge. The charge is often nude as opposed to present which is often clothed and display which can be clothed or not. The charge in these positions is always nude with the exception of his or her collar, wrist cuffs and ankle cuffs. There are various styles of "Formal Inspection Position," in which the slave or submissive should be familiar, and practice all of them to be able to immediately go into the designated or ordered position. The positions of "Formal Inspection" are listed as follows:

English Classical Formal Inspection: On knees, the thighs parted as wide as possible to display genitals, the breasts naked will be shown with a straight and arched back, shoulders back, hands on the thighs palms upwards, buttocks resting on the heels and the head up and eyes down.
Mouth

Breasts/Chest

Vagina/Penis and Scrotum

Anus and Buttocks
Modern Classical Formal Inspection: Kneeling with thighs open, displaying the sex with a back that is straight the chest lifted and slightly arched, with hands on the thighs palms down, with buttocks resting on the heels, the head down and looking down in respect. The body will be inspected in the following "order".
1. Mouth
2. Breasts/Chest
3. Vagina/Penis and Scrotum
4. Anus and Buttocks
Gorean formal Inspection: Sitting on heels, lean back until your shoulders rest on the ground and keeping legs wide apart, place your hands over your head with wrists crossed. The body will be inspected in the following "order".
1. Mouth
2. Breasts/Chest
3. Vagina/Penis and Scrotum
4. Anus and Buttocks
Informal standing Inspection: Standing with thighs parted widely, the arms behind the back, back straight, shoulders square and chest arched as best to present the breasts-chest. Much like a military's "parade rest," the head will be up and eyes forward.
1. Mouth
2. Breasts/Chest
3. Vagina/Penis and Scrotum
4. Anus and Buttocks
5. Legs and Calves
While being inspected the Slave/Submissive will neither move nor speak. Good form is followed by a rigid stance even if touched or probed. You should try to anticipate what the person inspecting you wishes, i.e. opening your mouth; lifting a foot and so on. On request the slave or submissive will state, in their presentment the following:
"(Owners Name,) slave or submissive, which ever the case may be, presents to the Master or Mistress, their body for his or her inspection. Slave or Submissive offers this at the whim of (Owners name) Sir or Madam as the case may call for". The Master or Mistress may nod for each body part presented or touch, inspect or feel or whatever the Dominant wishes to do with them.
The purpose's of "Presentment and inspection Positions" are as follows:
1. Demonstrates the submissive/ slaves level of training.
2. Reminds the slave or submissive what their status is.
3. Reminds the slave or submissive their body is for the Dominant's use, entertainment, pleasure and not theirs.
4. Allows the Dominant to keep a eye out for body change, discharge, injury, healing, any required cleaning or need to maintain or correct a flaw in that maintenance.
5. For ceremonial purposes of presenting the submissive/slave to a House, Hold or Chateau.
6. For presenting the collar.

Close: Upon hearing this command, the slave or submissive will close off their sexual genitals and their desires immediately. This word can also be used by the slave or submissive to advise the Dominant that an area of the slave's or submissive's body is closed, such as an open sore in the mouth or some other personal hygienic issue. The slave and submissive however, must understand that they are subjected to the whims and desires of the Dominant.

Down: The slave or submissive when hearing this command will drop immediately to the floor face down, from what ever position he or she is in, such as kneeling or standing position. The arms will be positioned crossed on the floor over their head, legs together and place the face cheek to the floor and in the direction of the Master or Mistress and remain on their belly till released from that position.

Down-Back: Hearing this command, the slave or submissive will immediately drop from the kneeling or standing position onto their backs, arms crossed over their head, the legs will be together, the face up and listen for other commands.

Down-Crawl: Upon hearing this command, the slave or submissive will drop onto their belly from the kneeling or standing position and much like a "army crawl," crawl on their belly to where the Master or Mistress directs them to go.

Fetch: Hearing this command, the slave or submissive will listen and follow directions of what to "fetch." Unlike the command of "bring," where the hands are used, the "fetch command," will require the slave or submissive to take into his or her mouth the desired item for the Master or Mistress. The item to be fetched should be within reason and sometimes will challenge the slave or submissive to use creativity in "fetching" the required or desired item. Upon "fetching," the slave or submissive will respond directly back, without hesitation as most likely this is being watched.

Follow: The slave or submissive when given the command to "follow," will take up the position to the left of the Master or Mistress and approximately 2 paces back as the Master or Mistress walks until needed to open the door or to move items out of the way. The slave's or submissive's duty is to be watchful and attentive to potential problems, obstructions or persons which may interfere with the fluid flow of the Dominant about the room or on their way out of one.

Footstool: Often referred to as "ottoman," it has been abandoned commonly in the BDSM community; however the function is the same. Upon hearing this command for "footstool," the slave or submissive will go onto their hands and knees, level their back as to make a table or foot rest for the Dominant. It is common to see a Dominant take a tray and place it upon the slave's or submissive's back then set their glass upon it filled with water. Sometimes sensually teasing the slave or submissive in which the slave or submissive is tormented and works harder to focus on not dropping the liquid or upsetting the glass.

Bind: Upon hearing this command, the slave or submissive will bring forward his or her hands with wrists together, for the purpose of placing restraints on, to bind or to cuff the slave's or submissive's wrists. This command may be associated with other commands such as kneel, lay down, or to stand.

Submit: At this command a Slave or submissive will kneel and cross wrists above and in front of their head, head bowed back straight , eyes downcast. The will then place their crossed hands at the feet of the Master/Mistress/Dominant and bend at the waist until their lips or forehead touch the boot tip. They will remain in said position until released.

Go: The Dominant will send the slave or submissive to do a task or to go back to their spot, etc. The "go" commands means to "go" and "leave" immediately, even stopping if it is in the middle progress of service, or process of sexual service or personal service. The slave or submissive may be directed to go elsewhere. However, if the slave or submissive is told to "go" or "leave" the slave will go back to his or her rest spot or to the other area.

Guard: This command of "guard" means exactly as it intends. The Dominant in which verbally commands the slave or submissive to guard, will be assigned the duty to "guard" either the Master or Mistress, their possessions or their person from unwanted contact with drunks, unwanted attention, to defend and protect the Dominant. This is most commonly used by the female Dominants with male slaves or submissive’s to fend off blows, hits and unwanted attention.

Humble: The position is not to be confused with the "down position". The slave or submissive when given this command will immediately drop to the belly, the head on the floor with hands to the side like a crucifix or above their head as in "surrender," their legs together with eyes down. This position is more for punishment or a forgiveness position, allowing the slave or submissive to reflect on their conduct. This position is also called the "prostrate position".

Humiliation Position: Humiliation position will vary with the individual slave or submissive. The position is for humiliation purposes, such as posing in rabbit attire or in a dress to be displayed for play humiliation. This position is up to the Dominant.

Leave: The slave or submissive, upon hearing this command will immediately and without complaint, without question or hesitation will leave the service, the activities he or she is performing and on or for the Master or Mistress and go back to either the previous task or to a rest position outside the room or back to their room to await further commands This allows the Dominant to stop and reassign tasks, to stop an activity that may be causing anger in the Dominant or submissive, or to defuse a tense situation.This command is much the same as the "go" command except that there may be no set task.

Mingle: Upon receiving this command, the slave or submissive is able to go and associate with guests, fellow slaves and submissive’s as the Dominant has no immediate need or is being occupied or served by another slave or submissive. At this time, the slave or submissive will be alert for a recall to service by the Dominant, but is also allowed to interact with those around him or her.

Obedience: This is a classic position in which the slave or submissive will take the position of "obedience." The position is immediately taken upon the command of their Owner or the Master or Mistress to whom has collared the slave or submissive. The slave or submissive, on their own may take this position to demonstrate their obedience to that Master or Mistress. Unless permission is granted by the Owner or the collaring Master or Mistress, no other Master, Mistress, Dominant or persons shall ask the slave or submissive to take this position. However, should the interested Dominant request from the Owner or collaring Master or Mistress, and there is no misunderstanding to the "demonstration" of the position and not the loyalty or obedience to the Owner or collaring Master or Mistress, the slave or submissive may be allowed to "demonstrate" such position. The positions of "obedience" are described as follows:

English-European Obedience Position: The slave or submissive will kneel, with hands behind their back, then lean over and place their face against the bare floor or at the feet of the Dominant.
Modern Obedience Position: The slave or submissive kneels, with elbows to the floor, the arms on the floor forming a pyramid coming to a point with the hands, the thumbs forming a base of a pyramid, the eyes down, with body much like a fetal position.

Open: On hearing this command of "open," the slave or submissive will make their genitals available to the visual or physical use of the Dominant. The desired effect is for the view and inspection of the sexual genitals or the use of it for torture, sexual stimulation or the use of the genitals by the Master or Mistress for pleasure or entertainment.

Punishment Position: There are several punishment positions in which the Dominant will direct the slave or submissive to use or take. This can be on any of the various bondage equipment pieces or in a form of restraint. The slave or submissive hearing this will have no misunderstanding that there was some displeasing behavior that needs immediate attention. This punishment is also not to be one of pleasure. Punishment is to create the desire for the slave or submissive to amend their behavior and not wish to repeat the conduct or misbehavior. Punishment can range from "ignore" to "heavy caning." Each punishment is different for each slave or submissive.

Slave-Submissive Maintenance: This command "slave/submissive maintenance" is for the slave/submissive will excuse himself or herself to prepare and maintain his or her body, such as shaving, wiping down their body, to clean their genitals. The Dominant will point out to the slave or submissive where they overlooked and needs to be redone. The slave or submissive when coming from work, into the home and needs to clean themselves and put their collar and cuffs on, may request permission to conduct slave-submissive maintenance before presentment. The final word is the Dominant's.

Attend Table: The "attend table" command is for the slave or submissive to go and prepare the dining table and stand by for the service of the food. The slave or submissive in public restaurant situation will go ahead and make reservations or reserve a table for the Master or Mistress and his or her guests. The slave or submissive will then escort the Master or the Mistress quietly to the table. Then properly seat the Mistress and then the ranking ladies present. The men will seat themselves.

Whip Position: This command can be used for punishment, discipline or pleasure and it is the Dominant's responsibility to make sure the slave or submissive knows that such is either for punishment or pleasure. The slave or submissive will take this position, especially when there is no restraints or bondage equipment are available. The position of the slave or submissive when hearing the command of "whip position" is as follows: The slave or submissive will Place themselves either free standing or against a wall or equipment with their hands supporting themselves at a slight incline. Head down, buttocks out a bit, presenting themselves for punishment.

Spank Position: The same as before but slave/submissive will place themselves either over a chair, knee or kneeling on a fetal position hands outstretched as the position of their Master or Mistress allows.

Worship: This command is for the "worshipping" of a particular body part designated by the Dominant, such as the feet, the buttocks or the hand. The "worship" involves only kissing. No licking or sucking the specified area. The slave or submissive will not move off the designated area that is under "worship."

Service: Service command is the area that involves licking and sucking, etc. The Dominant will specify where the slave or submissive will service, be it domestic, personal or maintaining the area. However, in most cases this command of "service" is associated with sexual pleasuring the Dominant in a specific location on the body, and not to be confused with the command to "worship", although service does not include kissing but sucking, licking,and other skills.

Release: Not to be confused with a formal release from a collar. This is the command most submissives love to hear. This command is the one issued to allow an submissive to orgasm.

Common Rules for the Novice and Masterless Slave:

Never be disrespectful to your Master or OTHERS, always treat all with courtesy, though respect is earned courtesy is protecting the honor of your "house".
Never allow yourself to be hit with whip or crop on the tailbone, lower back, head or neck. Never allow yourself to be struck in any way on head, neck, ovaries or kidneys. Always speak up if this happens.
Do not allow permanent injury. Scaring, cutting and burning while in some relationships a consensual act, these practices are not wise and best left alone unless done by experienced people in a committed relationship.
Submission does not mean you can be passed around as a sexual favor between Dom/mes, though to some this too is a consensual act. Always stress "permissions" so as to avoid any misunderstanding when playing with others.
Respect, and ask respect, of the use of a safe word like "crimson" to stop unwanted activity. The safe word should always be an "out of place" word, some in time may come to a point a safe word is not used, but it is best to have one, it is an indispensable safety net when entering new territory.
Always respect a Dominant or Master, show courtesy to all, always address them as Sir, no matter their experience, sexual preference, or style. What you do reflects on your Master/Mistress/Dominant.
Always respect the female Domme, always address her as Ma'am or Madam, show courtesy to all, no matter their experience, sexual preference, or style. What you do reflects on your Master/Mistress/Dominant.
Remember the best way to earn respect, is show respect. In showing respect and courtesy remember that you are not the slave/submissive of any except those who own you or who you have been given to attend or service. You do not have to submit to ANYONE except your Dominant and those He/She has expressly given you to.
Never allow nipple clamps to be left on for more than 15 minutes. Allow blood to circulate, if this is to be addressed respectfully ask for them to be removed.
Always ask for "mercy" or use a preset "safeword" if suspended and limbs become cold or numb, never allow yourself to be left alone in suspension.
Always ask permission to release (orgasm).
Always negotiate a new scene if something is not right; always ask to talk about it. To call a safe word, some use the terms "red", "yellow", "green". Red meaning stop completely, yellow to stop the activity and talk about it, green to start again or go further.

Orgasms On Command; Counting Down to Ecstasy.

You may have heard someone talking about it, or you may have even tried it. Tried it, perhaps without result. Or you may have even faked it. Orgasms, on command, is it possible? Well the answer is for most is yes. Though, it depends greatly on particular factors.

The first and greatest is of course a willingness to have it happen. If you or your subject is dead set against this possibility there is no way you will ever get there. Like any "hypnotic" or conditioned effect, it depends greatly on the willingness of the subject to immerse themselves in the idea. The second factor is patience. You’re not going to teach or learn this in a few hours or even in a few weeks, unless you are very, very susceptible to suggestion. The easiest way to explain what this entails is to talk about Pavlov's experiments, otherwise known as the Pavlovian effect. For those who don't know what I am speaking of Pavlov experimented in learned response. This is essentially what we are striving for, a learned response. With Pavlov it was simple, each time he called the subject, a dog, to eat, he rang a bell, eventually just by ringing the bell caused the dog to salivate in preparation for dinner.

We do the same thing with orgasms. Beginning with conventional sex we know will cause an orgasmic response. Be that intercourse or perhaps working with a favorite toy. We are working with a count, from ten to one with the permission to release at zero, or if wished followed by a phrase such as "cum now", or "cum for me", etc. In case you are wondering I have had this work with both males and females.

The first step is of course sexual excitement, start with a lot of foreplay, and use what you know gets a person hot. No pressure. But be sure the person knows ahead of time they cannot orgasm without permission to do so. That no matter what they must wait until you say they can cum. What follows is a step by step count down with dialogue, you can change the dialog as you wish, but its best to keep to the principals.

As you feel you subject is approaching orgasm start the countdown. Whisper in their ear with a sensual voice. Make sure you have their attention.

"Are you ready to Cum Now? Can you feel it? Don't cum until I tell you too, Are you ready"?

"10: Can you feel it building? That spot of heat in your belly"?

"9: Hold that heat, feel it build but hold it in a tight ball right at the pit of your belly".

"8: You feel it get hotter now, spreading through your center".

"7: Let the ball of fire build hotter, but hold it tightly".

"6: Feel the ball start to grow tendrils, feel them reach out through your chest and arms to your fingers".

"5: Feel your fingers and toes start to tingle, feel the heat start to be pulled into your center".

"4: Concentrate on all this heat of your body drawn into your center, draw it back in and hold it tightly".

"3: Growing hotter, hold the fire tightly, until I tell you to cum ( My Love, My sweet)".

"2: Unbearable now, but hold it for me feel it ready to burst ".

"1: When I say (add your phrase or use zero) cum for me. I want you to feel that heat that fire run through your body and out your fingers and toes, are you ready? Are you ready to cum for me? Say Please".

*At this point pay close attention to their movements, as you may have to draw it out a bit, by counting slowly, or quickening up the pace if you feel they can hold the orgasm no longer.*

"0: Now, cum NOW! (my love) Cum for me, feel that ball of heat explode through you, feel it run out your through your body".

Be sure to keep your voice quiet and melodious, Not sharp, if your not sure how to do this rent a hypnosis tape and listen to the way they speak. It should be husky and sensual, your breath in their ear. Quiet so that they feel that it is all for them, that you two are the only ones there, private, safe, comfortable.

Each time you have sex, or play with a favorite toy, keep the same count, with the same script, with few if any variations. Have them hold their orgasm until the last moment and focus on their pleasure at that time. There will be time for you later. This will do a few things, it will make them feel special, it will give you a sense of accomplishment and it will begin to add a suggestion to their mind to associate your words and the countdown with orgasm.

Eventually, after the first few initial experiences slowly start to get rid of the speaking portions, first every third sentence, then every other one and so on until you are down only to the countdown from ten. This should take a few months or more until eventually the idea is down to knowing when they are ready to orgasm and that they should hold orgasm until you say zero, O, or your phrase.

After a period of time, which differs for most people, just the count will be deeply associated with the orgasmic response. Once the mind is trained, for most, all it takes is a bit of excitement, or a mild turned on feeling to have the count instigate the orgasmic response. For those who are more suggestible the response can be brought on "cold," even in public, like in a restaurant or on a plane, ect. ect.

This does not work for everyone of course, but it is possible with a large portion of the population. An interesting effect is that once a subject has an orgasm the effect is usually very easy to immediately duplicate. My record at this time is 34 orgasms in a 4 hour period, each more powerful than the last.

"What is the Difference Between Professional Domination and Lifestyle"?

Not a subject easily condensed, but there are fundamental differences. The most obvious is connection. A Professional must be many things, not the least of which is a mind reader. A Professional meets a client and in a short time must not only negotiate the scene based upon a client’s wishes, but must also glean enough information to fulfill a clients fantasy, and do it well. Mistakes are not allowed in the short amount of the Master or Mistress's time the client has, otherwise they are not a repeat client.

In some ways its easier because, as a professional , one does not have to deal with the day to day life of the client. They are your responsibility for a short period of their session only and all you need deal with is their submissive/bottom side. A lifestyle relationship involves working with a person both inside and outside of a BDSM mentality. Dealing with them as a person first and a submissive second. Even in what some think of as a 24/7 relationship there are always periods of interacting as a couple. Dealing with the hurts, angers and crankiness any relationship goes through. In a professional setting a client comes to you as a slave and leaves as a slave and the rest of their life leaves with them.

So in conclusion the difference, for me, lies in connection; in life vs in scene. A client has a place in your life for a few hours, has your attention and your focus for that time. A companion has your attention, that connection with you always. It takes a person with great communication skills and a wild imagination to be a good top in any situation. It takes a lot more to do it on command.

“I’m registered, now what?” Events and Etiquette.
A Comfortable Q&A By Daddy Gray and his ed with Lord Wolf

Being in the area and having recently registered to attend their first leather gathering Daddy Grey's ed requested an interview to discuss what they were getting themselves into. Being that there are many people coming out in the leather world that have never gotten closer to a leather event than a Particular HBO program, we felt we should let everyone eaves drop on the conversation.

Wolf: Welcome to Wolfhold.

Ed: Thank you for your time sir.

DG: Shall we begin?

Wolf: Of course.

DG: So how do you find these events?

Wolf: These days It is easier than ever. If online, You can join Internet newsgroups and bulletin boards, frequent chat rooms and IRC, or even visit sites like BDSMevents.com to gain information about these events. This has been quite a boon to education in the leather community, and many events are tuned to outreach and education to the novice. There are many seminars and demonstrations designed to get you started in the skills and Ideas of the BDSM communities. But, if your not computer savvy it is also possible to find such events by subscribing to BDSM and Lifestyle publications. These days There are quite a few local publications like Minnesota alternatives and of course “Strokes” magazine <of which Wolf a contributor and the advertising editor> ::smile:: . There are also national publications like the San Mutopian Guardian, and Taboo. But the best way to keep informed of these events is to become active in your local community.

DG: How do you register?

Ed: And not wind up staying with the quilting bee?

Wolf: Most events are put on by either education groups, like Midwest Fetish, Leather Quest, AHS, leather action groups (activists), or play groups who use the events in a duel role of education and fund raising. These are usually closed events, attendees only, and they like to keep participants together. At weekend events most likely the group will book the entire hotel or most of it. If not, most events will have a block of rooms booked in the club or event name, such as Leatherquest in Chicago, Dreams to Reality in Omaha, etc. When you call for room rates mention that you are with whatever group is sponsoring the event. Remember you may be booked in a very large hotel and not the only group there, so the event management may wish you to keep it “Low Key.” You may also run into situations such as when I booked in for the Leatherquest event “Malicious Masquerade” and the counter girl, smiling, mentioned that she was told she should stay off the third floor. The very floor our rooms were on. She grinned, and said she was told that's “where the perverts were” and giggled. We had a tete a tete as I suggested that she'd probably be safer with us on the third floor than with the Illinois State troopers on the fifth floor.

Ed: Well, they have handcuffs too.

Wolf: As is usually case, the staff was told what would be happening that weekend. At most events planners have helped set up the rules not only for the attendees but for the hotel staff as well. At a well planned event you should feel quite at home and free to act and dress as you wish within the confines of some very lenient rules such as no bare buttocks in the lobby, ::smile::. Quite a few events I have attended have been filled with people in fetish dress for the entire weekend. In fact I remember pizza delivery to the dungeon at the Blackrose event just outside Washington DC.

Ed: So how do we register?

Wolf: Most events will have either a website or a mailing list. Once registration is open, you book the number of people and pay the registration fee, (usually from $75 to $150 dollars for the weekend). Depending on the package and the benefits you want, like dinner reservations and tee shirts/pins. Once paid the event will tell you the hotel location. Then you make your reservations and just wait for the weekend.

DG: Okay, I’m registered, what happens now?

Wolf: After you get your room, and get comfortable. You'll most likely be going down to a registration desk where you will be asked to sign your life away (snicker). No, you will sign a waiver, releasing the club and event from liability should you be hurt, and the assurance that you will be tolerant towards that which you view. That you will behave according to the events rules and behave in a safe sane and consensual manner. You and your party will be given badges and event handouts, lists of seminars, demos, dinners, and hopefully the hours of the Dungeon ::smile:: It will also include the stated rules of the event and whatever etiquette is to be followed, usually presented in a clear and forthright manner.

Ed: What etiquette?

Wolf: The rules of conduct, as well as what can and cannot be done at a particular event. Basic rules are a dress code in the public areas of the hotel, no scene play in the public parts of the hotel, local concerns about nudity and public sex. Basic dungeon etiquette is usually followed such as not interrupting peoples scenes, no loud talking in the dungeon, use of the color code, etc. however, it can go as far as to cover limitation on the length of a whip to be used in the dungeon. They also, at times, cover issues of harassment of other guests and other issues of personal conduct as well as a clear penalty for abusing the privilege of attending the event. This can go as far as revoking a badge and expulsion.

DG: How do I not make an ass of myself?

Ed: and ones boy…

Wolf: Be open, don't be overbearing about ritual. The best way to make friends is to be yourself and if respect is due it will be given. If you are feeling inquisitive ask. A novice to anything should never feel embarrassed to say ‘can you show me that.” I have never been to one of these events where newcomers were not accepted for who they were and treated nicely by others. The only way to learn, which is what these events are for, is to interact. In Chicago, Leatherquest puts on a wonderful seminar in which people could go to various “Sensation Stations” and obtain stamps for trying singletail, floggers, bondage and the like. Of course the easiest way to make an ass of oneself is to say “That's wrong! This way is right, my way is right.” or to claim respect by right because you are a “Master”. Just because someone loves you enough to call you “Blank” does not mean the world see’s you that way. Be yourself and respect will come. That is one commodity that cannot be demanded but must be earned.

DG: What types of seminars are typical?

Wolf: Generally an event organizer will try to present as varied a faire as possible but some staples are; hands on classes or demos involving Singletail, floggers, wax, bondage, and the like but can get as involved as fireplay or permanent piercing, cutting, branding, electricity, CBT, the latter usually a demonstration only.

There usually discussion groups and panels which discuss various aspects of BDSM, such as Dominant, switch or submissive roles. These panels consist of people who are actively involved in BDSM and discuss what it is they do, answer questions, and discuss new ideas and practices. The focus is the exchange of ideas and ideals in an open accepting atmosphere. The topics vary and the list is too long to try to reproduce here but a few are, polyamory, humiliation play, interrogation scenes, equestrian (pony play), role play, all the way to making a 24/7 relationship work and gender and acceptance issues.

Now, not all events you attend will have every conceivable seminar, but most offer enough of a choice that even the most experienced can find something new.

Ed: What if I see something I don’t like/ seems dangerous?

Wolf: Well, If you see something you don't “like,” think of it as their choice, we each ask acceptance of our personal “quirks” and to gain that for ourselves, we must first practice tolerance in our dealings with others. There are a few choices in this lifestyle I chose not to make, but I cannot begrudge others their choices. If I view a safe scene that is just not my taste, I look away. An example of this is public humiliation scenes, it may not be your cup of tea, but to the people “in” that particular scene it is pleasure. It’s “what it is they do.” We, as tolerant people, must try to accept that it is a negotiated scene for the pleasure of both partners. They have the right to explore their world, just as you have the right to do what is you do. If it’s not your taste don't watch and accept that it is their scene.

Dangerous is another story! Most events have a staff and once you’re in the dungeon they will have “Dungeon Monitors“ (The 21st century name for dungeon masters). These are the people who have final say on what scenes are allowed and enforce the particular rules of that event. If you do see something you believe is dangerous you should approach one of these people and inform them of your concern. They will check it out, and if it is deemed dangerous, they will address it. Be sure you don't abuse the privilege by complaining about scenes that “I would never do ” remember to each his own.

DG: I see someone I want to play with, how should I go about asking?

Wolf: This is a bit of a question for me ::smile:: I don’t ask. Those I play with at events have done what humans have done for centuries they said “Hi,” we speak, become friends. Others just want to, well experience something they have seen me do, and at times they have the nerve to ask. Some see public play as a way to see, feel, and experience new things. I have seen many a couple ask for a particular skill from a top that they both wish to learn. I have been approached by both the sides of a relationship to experience say, the singletail. I usually take the time to show them. It is best to be open and honest, express your wishes, ::smile:: within the realm of politeness, and be sure of the dynamics of the relationship, other than that its almost like dating.

Ed: What do I wear?

DG: Not wear?

Wolf: The entire point of these events, to me, is acceptance. I believe people should wear what makes them comfortable, what makes them themselves. Most people define themselves with dress. I have seen everything from latex, street clothes, leather to a friend of mine who wears this adorable Mickey Mouse Baby Jumper. I have seen cats with tails and Nuns in red corsets. It’s a free for all. Enjoy. As for suggestions well you can’t go wrong with leather! Of course keep in mind that the event will have some rules on public nudity be sure to check the rules and ask if they are not clear.

ED: Ok, what if Master Lord High Pooh-Bah (not Daddy) told me “get me a drink girl” what do I do?

Wolf: Well, if your asking what I prefer, ::smile:: the response would be , “You would have to ask my “Master”, “Daddy”, ” Lord”. Of course if they are rude about it, or if they are “overly persistent", an “Excuse me, I did not give you the right to order me about did I? ” Of course if they are a complete jerk the expletive of your choice may be in order. Now these are my rules. :: Smile:: With your Top “mileage may vary.” I have found that there are few who would overstep such boundaries and if they do, they soon learn not to make the mistake again.

Ed: My relationship Is “different”. Will we be accepted?

Wolf: One of my favorite parts of these leather events is the tolerance. Most events are largely pansexual with many varied and exotic couple combinations. I have found that at these events acceptance does not lie in what society may have you labeled, but on your own merits.

DG: How do we make our relationship clear?

Wolf: Well you have the name tags to work with. Many have “Master,” “Mistress” , “slave,” “boy,” or “sub” or “Switch” right on their badge. Many go so far as to claim ownership such as "Master Bobs Susy.” Some may include a taste or skill, such as “Whipmaster Bob.” Over all its pretty clear when someone is a couple, who is top and who is bottom. If you want to be extremely clear its always a good idea to "demonstrate'' your relationship by say, having a submissive kneel by your side or even have them on a leash if that's your thing.

DG: What about play?

Wolf: Most events will sponsor a dungeon, with the groups equipment or donated, rented equipment. They will have Monitors and strict rules, besides that it is a free and open atmosphere. Most enjoy the camaraderie, but public play does not appeal to everyone you have to be careful to know that your partner is comfortable as well as relaxed with the idea. Keep in mind that there are many eyes in a dungeon so if you do a scene it’s a probability that you will be watched.

Ed: Oh God, a Public dungeon! What will I see?

Wolf: In most cases, nudity, a great variety of scenes and skills. At times there will be featured demos or stage presentations. Many are ok with people just watching as long as they don't try to interfere with the scene in progress, talking loud while people are trying to get into a “space” is thought very rude. It is important to remember never to interrupt a scene!

DG: I want to do a scene, now what?

Wolf: Hopefully you have a partner. You would look silly doing a scene alone. If a piece of equipment is free you can just start your scene. It is of course nice to mention to those in the area that you’re going to use the space. This way you can clear a “safe zone.” If the piece you wish to use is not free it is usual to either wait for an opening and mention your wishes to the Top using it, when He/She is not busy, that you would like it next, at times I will set my bag close by and just catch those people in the areas eyes, asking if the piece is open and motioning that I would like to use it when it is available. Of course be sure to clean up your area for the next player, there will usually be cleaning products for this purpose.

Ed: Now he wants to beat me in public what do I do? :::grin:::

Wolf: That of course is up to you. How public will you want it, if you don't want to draw a crowd find a nice spot in the back of the dungeon. If you want to put on a show, :::smile:: there are usually centered pieces. Be sure of how you feel before the restraints go on. There is a particular feeling that comes from public play, you are surrounded by people. Everyone doing what you yourself do. This makes for a particular comfort that, in all honesty, will cause you to do things you may not believe the next day. Be careful it’s not a regret and you will be fine. I usually find that once the scene starts, the crowd "goes away." They are still there, but we usually fail to notice their presence until the scene is over. The focus is very intense for us.

DG: OK I'm beating her should I watch for cops?

Wolf: Actually most times the cops are watching the door. A lot of events hire off duty police for security. What we do is no more illegal than swinger’s conventions that have been going on for years. Quite a few of the events I attend have never had any problem with the police. Well in Chicago some of the state patrolmen were intoxicated and tried to get into the event by flashing badges. ::Smile:: but the off duty policewoman said "ya pretty, I have one too, you still need to register".

Ed: I Switch so, can I use him sexually in public?

Wolf: Most events have strict rules about penetration and fluids in the public spaces. Usually no intercourse is allowed. Though I have seen a fisting or two, but I feel that at most events public penetration is frown upon.

Ed: Ok, we've finished our scene. Now what?

Wolf: Well, again its your choice. A chat in the cool down area, most dungeons have them. The better events have Midnight snacks, sodas and the like. You can sit around and be seen, have a nice discussion, watch others play or you can rush back to the room for ….<wink> sleep. By now you most likely need it.

Dungeon Etiquitte

Dungeons often open and close at a predetermined time with the doors locked during play. Make every effort to arrive on time and within the time frame specified by the host/hostess in the invitation.
Unless told otherwise, show up to leather events dressed in casual clothes or street clothes and change once inside the party location. Bring your toys in a container or gym bag as not to attract attention. The main idea is not to let the neighbors know what is taking place inside.
Be discrete, as most of these events are not usually open to the public.
If it’s a private event bring something for the table. If asked sometimes the host/hostess will ask you to bring items such as sodas, snacks, finger foods, napkins, plates and/or cups or other items.
Cameras are not allowed! If you want to take photographs, get permission from the host/hostess first and get permission form those people to whom you wish to photograph regardless, but most parties or events never allow photos.
It is generally frowned upon to bring a non-scene person/guest to the party or scene events and most importantly the play space. It is never appropriate to bring unsuspecting persons to a play party without telling them what will be seeing and what to expect.
Play should be conducted in a safe, sane and consensual manner.
Treat others with respect and consideration at all times, regardless if Dominant or submissive.
Do not assume the only worthwhile outcome of attending is a sexual encounter. Networking and making friends is valuable.
First names and nicknames are the normal at scene functions. Treat everybody's identify as confidential and avoid using your last name, phone number, work number until you get to know them better.
Avoid using scene names in non-scene environments.
It is seldom required, but always appreciated when people dress in scene attire or fetish attire. If you do not have such attire or cannot afford them, the basic black is always acceptable.
Never interfere with a scene without prior approval of the Dominant/top in charge of the scene. Never talk to the people involved in a session, if you have a question try to casually catch the Dominant/Tops eye.
Never involve yourself in a scene without permission.
It is never OK to touch someone in a sexual way without permission, either Dominant or submissive.
Never touch any equipment or toys that belong to others without their knowledge and consent.
Most public and private dungeons are: No Smoking! There are usually designated smoking areas.
Possession of illegal drugs is forbidden at leather events.
Alcohol is frowned upon, due to its inebriating effect and drunkenness in a scene is a hazard. If you come to a function intoxicated, do not be surprised or offended if you are denied admission or asked to leave.
If you find your missing a few toys or picked up someone else's by accident, notify the host/hostess the next day as to have arrangements to return the ones you have or receive those you have lost. Watch your toys.
Sexual penetration, oral sex or an exchange of body fluids is often behavior which is not allowed during an event. Though the rules vary, if your not sure ask a DM. Private parties are at times very different, but unless it’s approved by the host/hostess assume its a no sex event. If it is allowed and if you do have sex, clean up after yourself and be sure to clean the equipment. Sometimes sexual activities are off limits in the dungeon, if they are allowed, are done in a designated room. Further, there is usually no urine, blood, or scat play at these functions. Usually in public dungeons any masturbation, sexual stimulation, sex, blood, urine and genital torture is forbidden. Each area is different so check the Dungeon rules posted by the management.
If you see things happening in a scene that do not look safe, sane, or consensual do alert the host/hostess or the dungeon monitor or staff in the public dungeon, and then allow them to address it.
Ask about and obey house rules. House rules are defined by the host/hostess. The word of the Host/Hostess is FINAL! House rules vary from place to place.
Use your common sense, watch and observe, learn and listen, seek advice and if you have a question ask, but if you have a question wait until scenes are over to ask your question of the players or ask some person who is not occupied.
If you disagree do not be disagreeable! Remain civil. There will be personalities that conflict with your own, Remember your view is not the only view. Be tolerant.
Keep aware of the play zones around equipment. If you get hit with a whip or other toy, it’s your fault not the person concentrating on what they are doing.
Do not interrupt play or move in on a session unless you are invited by the Dominant/Top. It is OK to watch, but don't get in the way.
Be respectful to all people. You will find all kinds of body shapes, different fetishes, different genders, different races and different styles of play. Your kink may not be their kink. Be tolerant.
Do Not Ask to Borrow Toys! Especially when they are sex toys or toys that penetrate.
Submissive/Bottoms should not hound or interrupt Dominants/Tops. This is especially true when engaged in conversation, or when the Dominant sits down after a scene. If you want to talk, quietly try to catch their eye.
Bring your own toys, unless the person you are playing with has their own set don't expect to use others tools.
If you see a tool you haven't used before you can ask the Dominant to demonstrate how they are used and/or how they can be used. Keep in mind, they may decline. This is not often the norm but it does happen. Be polite.
Should you borrow a toy, it is your responsibility to care for and clean the tool.
Should you break a tool it is the responsibility of the borrower to replace the toy if the toy is damaged regardless of what the degree of the damage is.
Manners are always appreciated. Manners also exclude the use of profanity or vulgar language and/or acts/gestures.
Use common sense. If you are going to do a fire scene/fire play, make sure that all the safety measures are met. If a waxing have a drop cloth. If you need help, have somebody assist.
Always use safety measures. Fire-A blanket should also be available to smother the flames and extinguisher should be in reach. Bondage-Safety scissors, Chains-quick release connections. Etc etc.
When doing Fire/Wax/Blood or any scene that can fall under "edge play" Inform a DM before continuing.
At a private dungeon party ask to assist, start picking up the trash. The Host/Hostess will appreciate any assistance in making the party space clean, neat and attractive. For submissives, this is one of the best ways to make an impression when on their own.
Just because you are invited to a dungeon party, does not mean you are required to play. Some people are not ready to play. Some are shy or will not play in public. However, use the opportunity to get to know folks, chat, get scene ideas, etc.
BDSM is all inclusive. There may be many that are overweight, tall, skinny, attractive, novice, experienced, some are of different color or with different play styles and fetishes. Be tolerant.
Never Gossip, when you gossip it always comes back to the source. Leave what you see in a dungeon in the dungeon.
It is wise to advise the Host/Hostess of any medical problems you may have which may be a problem, such as seizures, diabetic and/or heart, so that the Host and/or Hostess can monitor you and not panic in the middle of a crisis especially when it happens mid-scene.
If you have a medical condition, have a list of what to do and medications and how to apply ready and prepared to permit fast application of what ever is needed. Give one to the host / Hostess and one to the Top/Dominant you are playing with.
Keep your voice low when talking in the dungeon. Loud voices are never appreciated.
When playing with your partner, tune out the rest and focus on each other. After done playing both can sit and watch and pick up new ideas and techniques or use the opportunity to discuss things you like or dislike.
It is most kind of Host/Hostess to open their private home and dungeon to the partygoer. It is highly encouraged to send a written thank you note to the Host/Hostess thanking them for the opportunity to attend. Save complaints for a later time unless it’s too serious to ignore.
Have fun!

Dungeon First Aid Manual

A short description of things to be aware of in a session.
This text is not a substitute for an approved American Heart Association or Red Cross CPR and First Aid class.

Asthma: It is not a good idea to take a chance if asthma symptoms occur if such symptoms do occur stop the scene immediately reassure the subject that this is all right as the sense of failure to complete the scene may increase the symptoms. Asthma sufferers should always have an inhaler on hand. it is best to ask about asthma in negotiation and to place the inhaler in a place where both parties know of its location and have access to it.
Use the inhaler at the earliest sign of a problem. In addition to the respiratory difficulty you may notice a rapid pulse rate due to the body's struggle for oxygen. It may be necessary to call for emergency assistance if relief is not quickly noted from the inhaler.

Anaphylactic Shock: Though usually known to the subject this can result from a severe allergic reaction to almost anything. latex, foods, bee stings, etc. People aware of these allergies may carry an "epinephrine pen", a pre-loaded syringe device to treat the reaction or they may have antihistamine tablets. This is a very real emergency; the swelling associated with the reaction can reduce or prevent breathing. In addition to breathing problems you may notice swelling, itching, watery eyes and elevations in body temperature and pulse. In this situation, treat as you would for shock follow the persons instructions with use of pen or tablets and call emergency assistance immediately.

Bleeding: Even in the most well planned scene with the best players accidents can and do happen. it is best to keep a well stocked professional first aid kit in any dungeon.
If an injury occurs and is planned a small styptic pencil will stop the bleeding and sting also , many actually include this as part of a scene. care must be taken in public though as even the smallest amount of bleeding can attach itself to a tail and fly about . If the bleeding is heavy the first thing to do is to stop the Scene, apply direct pressure, preferably with a sterile compress. if the bleeding stops apply a large Bandage and continue if you wish , avoiding the area.

If bleeding continues and soaks through the compress, add another and use firm pressure over a larger area. If possible elevate the injured area above the heart but NOT in the case of a fall or hard strike accident and you believe there is a possibility of a fracture. Be very careful you do not completely block circulation with the pressure you apply. If the blood appears to form a clot at the injury site and bleeding stops or lessens, do not disturb it in any way, allow the body to heal , it is not recommended you continue with the scene. Butterfly Bandages may help in holding larger cuts closed Unless it is obvious that a visit to an ER for stitches may be needed but depending on the type and severity of wound, calling 911 would not be a necessity.

Bruises: Most of what we do will cause a bruise or two most subjects enjoy their marks Bruises or contusions are generally minor. I personally recommend a Hot shower following a scene to lesson the effect. A cold compress or ice pack can be applied to an area that shows extensive bruising and should not be heated . If it is on a limb ( you missed or they had an accident) it may be elevated to lessen the blood flow to the area. After 24 hours warm moist compresses are recommended. If there is any question as to the severity of damage to underlying areas excessively dark and swelling bruises may be a sign of internal bleeding or if the contusion is to the head or on the chest, seek medical attention promptly.

Burns: Burns can result during fire play or electrical play and include rope burns caused by pulling rope along the skin too fast. burns are measured in degrees and treatment is considered based on this. No burn should be taken lightly as they are painful and prone to infection.

First-degree burns are those that are minor, skin is red but not broken, there may be mild swelling. This is the most common, from things such as waxing or fire play. For this type treatment is basic: cold water or an ice compress and possibly a sterile dressing with maybe an aloe vera gel or burn cream available in any first aid kit. a good triple antibiotic with lidocaine is also very effective Never use butter or a fatty based ointment on a burn.
Second-degree burns These include redness or blotched looking skin coloring, blisters, pain and swelling more pronounced than in first-degree burns. For treatment, apply cold water or compresses but do not use ice for these. Keep the area dry and elevated if possible. Sterile bandage will help to prevent infection which is a common complication. For this purpose as well, do not intentionally break any blisters that do appear. Do not use any salves, ointments or sprays until seen by a medical professional.
Third degree burns are the most serious. In this type of burn pain is usually minimal or non-existent due to the loss of nerve endings. There are full thickness burns involving all layers of skin. Skin may appear a whitish color or may be charred. Again, NO ice, cold compresses only. The best thing here is to cover with a thick clean or sterile dressing (sheets or towels will work if a large area is damaged) and get emergency assistance immediately.
Any second degree burn covering 25% of the body surface area of an adult (20% for a child) or a third degree covering 10% of the body surface (adult or child) is extremely serious and death may occur . Call 911 immediately.

Convulsions: Also called seizures, convulsions can be caused by a condition such as epilepsy, head injury, electrolyte imbalance, alcohol or infection in the body. Some occur without any identifiable cause whatsoever. They may be small (petit mal, also called absence seizures) with only a slight change in the level of consciousness, such as blinking, rolling of the eyes, a blank stare and/or slight mouth movements. They may last only 1 to 10 seconds. About all that can be done in these instances is to loosen clothing, note the length of the seizure and the characteristics of it and keep an eye on the person.
In larger (grand mal) seizures the main thing during the episode is to keep the person as safe as possible. At the beginning there is usually a loud, brief cry as they fall to the floor and lose consciousness. The body will stiffen and then the muscles will alternately spasm and relax for approximately 2-5 minutes. During this time there may be tongue biting, loss of bowel or bladder control, drooling, labored breathing and a bluish tint to the mouth and nail beds. Immediately afterwards, the person may experience headache, tiredness and/or confusion.

During this type of seizure, if possible ease the person to the floor, remove obstacles but do not try to hold them down. Placing something soft under their head is good if you can. Turn their head gently to open an airway if necessary. Never try to force anything into the victim's mouth, but if it is open and you can hold something soft just to keep the teeth apart this is ok ... nothing hard, which could cause mouth injuries. Time the seizure from beginning to end. When it's over, place the victim on their side to facilitate breathing while checking for any injuries. Seek prompt medical attention.

Electrical Shocks: First and foremost, if the person is still in contact with the electrical source, turn it off! Do not try to touch them until you have done so. If you can not turn off the power, use a non-conductive material such as rope to loop around a limb to pull them free or a piece of wood to push the source away. Be sure the material you use is dry and that you are as well. Assess the need for CPR as soon as the person is free. If breathing and pulse are adequate, turn your attention to any injuries received. Cool, moist dressings are ok but no ice. Cover with clean, dry cloth if no sterile dressing is available. Call 911. Even if there is no visible burn or injury and the person appears to be fine, medical treatment as soon as possible is recommended. Death from a strong electrical shock can occur up to 24 hours.

Fainting: This in usually a temporary situation. Ammonia capsules or "smelling salts" can quickly bring the fainting victim around. Observe for any injuries from falling and monitor for complete return to normal. If recovery doesn't seem to have fully occurred after a few minutes call for help or take to the ER. It could be as simple as not eating or loss of proper circulation or ventilation or it could indicate something more serious. Unless the condition that caused it is certain, seeking medical attention is recommended.

Heart Attack: If you suspect a heart attack call 911 immediately! The risk to your "outing" is negligible to a person’s death. if you are unable to reach a phone to call for help Go to one , if someone is near by have them call for you. During a heart attack, heart muscle is dying from a sudden decrease or lack of blood flow to the area. The symptoms include: severe chest pain which is not relieved by rest or nitro tablets (if the person has a known cardiac condition) or antacids (this pain may or may not radiate down an arm or the back), sudden severe jaw pain, difficulty breathing, cold and clammy skin, pulse rate either too fast or too slow, nausea and/or vomiting and severe anxiety. Remember; only some of these signs may be present. If there is any doubt, get emergency assistance. Better to go to the ER for heartburn than to wait it out and be wrong! Treat according to the ABCs of first aid (to follow) until emergency personnel arrive.

Shock: In shock, the body is not getting enough blood flow to the tissues. Shock is always caused by something else: trauma, cardiac situation, and severe shock to the nervous system or due to toxins in the system or severe allergic reactions. Symptoms include: cool and clammy skin, restlessness, sweating, fast but shallow breathing, fast weak pulse, unresponsiveness, nausea and vomiting , blotchy appearing skin, extreme weakness and sudden thirst. Some or all of the above may be present. The person in shock must be kept warm and if conscious, be reassured while the underlying cause is being treated based on the ABCs of first aid. Keep the person lying down; do not attempt to give them anything to drink if they aren't fully awake and alert.

The ABC's of Life Support: The ABCs are the foundation of basic life support. It is an easy to remember term to quickly determine the severity of a medical
emergency. A = airway, B = breathing and C = circulation. A and B may seem to be the same at first but they really aren't. A person cannot breathe without an open airway and without breathing a person won't live longer than 4 - 6 minutes without brain damage or death.

Airway: If there is no breathing, it is crucial to first ensure there is an open airway. Blood, the tongue, dentures or even food may be blocking the airway partially or completely. Place the person on their back on the floor or a hard, flat surface. Look into the mouth for anything, which could be easily removed. If you are certain there is no neck injury, carefully tilt the head back by placing one hand under the neck and lift upwards and the other on the forehead and press downward as the chin is raised.
Another method is to gently lift the chin with two fingers while tilting gently back on the forehead. If there may be neck injury, grasp the angles of the lower jaw and lift with both hands, if unsuccessful tilt head back very slightly. Check to see if
respirations are present.
Breathing: If there are no respiration's at this point, the next step is to restore breathing. Keep the head in the position described above that fits your situation. Using the hand on the forehead, use the thumb and index finger to pinch the nostrils closed. Next take a deep breath and tightly place your mouth over the person's mouth (or nose if mouth is injured too badly) breathe into their mouth. Inflate the lungs twice for about 1 to 1 & 1/2 seconds. Keeping head in the same position, check the carotid pulse (at the side of the throat). If there is a pulse but breathing doesn't resume on it's own continue at a rate of about 12 times a minute for an adult, 15 per minute for children and 20 per minute for an infant. If there is no pulse found, go to step C.
Circulation: Without a pulse you have now moved from rescue breathing to CPR or cardio-pulmonary resuscitation. I can give a brief overview here but it is not the same as taking a class and actually doing it on a practice dummy. I can not show proper hand placement either which is very important. I know everyone has seen it done on TV a million times. Do not believe in Baywatch CPR, they don't just jump up, say thanks and kiss the person who revived them! More often than not ribs are broken and lungs can be punctured! Many times the victim will vomit which are another good reason for those mouth shields for CPR. Basically, if you are alone and are doing CPR you would give 2 breaths as described in