It was my initiation night, at last I could be accepted. I was nervous, but I was ready. I had come as instructed: clothed in a the long black robe they provided, only panties underneath. It was a chilly evening and I walked quickly.
I couldn't be sure of exactly what to expect; they are a secretive group and until I was initiated I was still an outsider. But they had gained my trust and were clearly eager to include me; Dana said she knew I would love it. Excitement mounted as I neared the hall, and I swallowed as my trembling hand opened the door.
The greeting was warm but rushed; friendly congratulations could wait until this was over with. I was glad to see several faces I knew among the crowd, before it was time and they were covered in identical masks. And suddenly I was alone, the sole exposed face in the hall, rows of indistinguishable figures staring expectantly. It had begun.
I knew the hands that grabbed me to march me up the aisle belonged to Dana and John, which made me feel safe even as they moved me a little more roughly than I expected up to the front of the hall. They presented me to the small group of senior members standing there, and stood back to observe as I was handed over. It was really happening. My heart pounded in my chest and I saw no comfort in the unmoving gaze of the masked face before me. His voice boomed in the hall, I didn't recognise it.
"You have been presented before us tonight to make your commitment to this group and be initiated. It will not be easy for you, but we know that each stage of the ceremony will bring its own fulfilment to your soul, and you will come to see the purpose of our ways. You are free to leave at any time and your initiation will be terminated. But if you wish to see it through tonight, you must obey all instructions, exactly and immediately.
"The first stage of the ritual tonight is the Oath. First you must be introduced to our members congregated here tonight. Turn around and face the audience."
I obeyed.
"Speak your name."
I obeyed.
"Now we must be convinced of your true nature. Remove your robe."
It fell to the ground and I stood in only my pants before the masked crowd, feeling their eye on my bare skin even though I could not see them.
Why was I doing this?
I asked myself yet again, and yet again knowing the answer. They were right about me, they knew this was what I needed. Even as I trembled and felt ashamed, this felt so very right...
"Listen carefully, new one," said the voice behind me. "Each of the Seven must be shown that you truly want to join us, and each will have a test to give you the opportunity to prove yourself. I am Number One, and as is tradition, I am satisfied with simply the recitation of the Oath. Begin when you are ready."
I had, of course, familiarised myself with the Oath, but was grateful that the words were placed into my hand by Dana, who then stepped back to her place at the side and watched as I stuttered out the lines to the congregation.
"I... present myself before you to demonstrate my need for your acceptance, training and discipline. I solemnly swear to obey unquestioningly, to endure in stillness, to rid myself of notions of pride and dignity, and to serve the needs of my masters. I will find fulfilment in being used for your pleasure and amusement, and I accept my position as the lowest among you."
I would be the newest and therefore the lowest ranking in the group, until another member joins. Then I would take part in their training, just as I will be trained by the members above me.
I knew what I had to do next. I turned back to face Number One and knelt before him, lowering my gaze as I could not bear to face the mask.
"Master, please may I be accepted?" was the simple question I was to ask of each of the Seven. He spoke so all the hall could hear: "I welcome you, child."
He stepped back and Number Two took his place, towering above my trembling form. Her voice was loud and had none of the gentle sympathy of One's; I was suddenly gripped with fear of her and what she might do.
"Do you truly wish to join us?"
"Yes, Master."
"To earn my approval you must endure a beating. Do you want me to beat you?"
"Y-es..."