Good D/s relationships manifest signs of the medieval romantic ideal of chivalry of honor, loyalty, bravery, courtesy and devotion. It's obvious that there is an expectation for the submissive to be loyal, courteous and devoted to the dominant. But the relationship is also based upon the loyalty, courtesy and devotion of the dominant for the submissive. The dominant must give the sub due respect, which means fundamental courtesy of a human being. He/She must be loyal to the relationship and committed to the care and protection of their submissive. This is a form of devotion to the union. It is also vital that the dominant honors the gift of surrender from the submissive. A submissive of quality would not be so foolish as to trust, much less surrender, to a so-called dominant who would not respect and honor their gift. Both people must honor the boundaries and vulnerabilities of the other. D/s has built into it a sense of mutual protectiveness and trust that flows both directions. D/s relationships are built upon respect and trust.
a quote from Midori in Wild Side Sex: The Book of Kink
