I tend to ramble on so I am going to try very hard to keep this brief.
A Dominant and a submissive are both "real" when they have the true craving to be Dominant or submissive in their hearts and minds and souls , no matter what part of this lifestyle they chose to,or are able to embrace. Once a part of a D/s union of any kind, they are then honest, sincere, loving and respectfful of each other, as well as being understanding and tolerant of each others concerns, weaknesses, limits and fears. I know of many very loving and "real" online D/s realtionship where there is a very close and intense bond even though they may never meet, and I know some real life D/s unions that are nothing more than a cover for an abusive personality taking advantage of a weaker one under the guise of Dominant and submissive. In my humble opinion, a true Dominant AND a true submissive can be summed up in three words; one who is willing to treat the other with trust, honor and respect. "peace" ~blizz~