What does a Trainer do?     A Trainer trains a sub (or on occasion a Dom/me) in a particular area or set of skills agreed upon.   A Master or Protector may feel that a sub requires training in an area of expertise of a specific Trainer.   The Master then makes the appropriate arrangements.     A masterless sub may seek a Trainer if that sub feels a need for aid and direction beyond what can be learned from reading and study.     There are those who hold that a sub should never be Trained by anyone other than that sub's Master or Mistress.   If we were speaking only of skills in intimate D/s relationships I would agree, but subs need to learn other things to thrive in the VP D/s society.   Kind words from former trainees assure me that the role of Trainer can be a valuable one.

What are the duties and rights of Trainer and sub?     This is something the parties should discuss in advance.   They may even wish to have a contract.   In the case of an unattached sub, matters that should be agreed upon include: Subject areas in which the sub is to be Trained. The expected duration of the relationship -- when and how it is to be terminated. Authority:   Does the Trainer have the authority to command the sub, and to penalize or punish? What responsibilities does the Trainer undertake, beyond those of Training and Teaching?   A Trainer of a new sub might take on many of the duties of a Protector. The last two items give the Trainer considerable authority, so it is important that the parties have a clear understanding, and that the sub's consent be free and informed.   This may be a new sub's first D/s experience.

Kyla, what do you do as a Trainer? I Train new subs in three main areas: Basic sub rights and self-defense; Customs, manners, and ways of the VP D/s world; What subs, Masters, and Protectors are, and relations between them. Most of my trainees are new to D/s, and have neither Masters nor Protectors, so I also take on functions of a Protector during their first weeks.   This commonly includes temporary rules and limitations for the sub's safety.