Negotiation
The act of a Dominant and submissive discussing aspects of either their lifestyle or a specific scene, and to what degree those aspects will be followed within the confines of their relationship or scene. In any case, negotiating is more often than not, an ongoing process between two partners that often changes and adapts to circumstances.
Lifestyle
The negotiation of limits between partners is most important before entertaining the idea of a contract especially.
Scene Specific
Even with no contract, before a scene takes place, it is commonplace for the Dominant and the submissive to negotiate terms of said scene.
For instance, while negotiating, either party may insist upon the use of a safeword. They may also negotiate the time frame of the scene or the location or whether it will be public or private.
