#Mastering Negotiation Tactics

[mentorshelly]

Mastering Salary Negotiation Series, Part 1 - Building Your Powerful Value Proposition

Welcome to the Mastering Salary Negotiation Series, where we equip you with the essential skills and strategies to succeed in your salary negotiations. In Part 1, we focus on one of the most crucial aspects of any negotiation – crafting a powerful value proposition. A well-structured value proposition not only demonstrates your worth to potential employers but also sets the stage for a successful…

[existentiol]

something that pisses me off in RA is that Flanagan will occasionally hype up Pauline as this super important and prominent figure in Will’s life, even treat her as a proxy for the mother he never knew, and yet will just refuse to show it beyond the like. two or three (personal) conversations that they have in canon. I get that he was attempting to make her an important person in Will’s life but why not do that by actually making her an important person in Will’s life

[themindtools]

Stop losing arguments forever. Aristotle's secret psychological weapons that created Alexander the Great can make you unstoppably persuasive. Master ethos, pathos, and logos to dominate any power dynamic. #PowerDynamics #PersuasionMastery #PsychologicalWarfare

[phantasm-ae]

cw: fluff, afab reader x john price

HEADCANON: You knit John a sweater. He hates it but loves you

PAIRING: John Price x reader

something something Captain John Price, master of stealth operations. Hostage negotiation professional. Tactical genius and renowned covert specialist forced to wear this ugly yellow knitted sweater specially crafted and knitted by his young sweet wife.

It was a strategic ambush he hadn’t seen coming.

One minute he was sipping his morning tea, minding his own business, and the next — ambushed by a box wrapped in sparkly paper and the words, "Try it on, luvie!" said in a voice no hardened operative could refuse.

Now here he was, standing stiffly in a suburban backyard, sweating slightly under the weight of yarn and shame, while her family fluttered around like a squadron of very friendly, very nosy drones.

The sweater — bless its cursed existence — had bloody texture too. Price wasn’t sure if it was wool, acrylic, or some kind of experimental textile designed specifically to itch. All he knew was that it clashed violently with his rugged persona and made him look like a particularly grumpy baby chick.

But across the lawn, his wife caught him staring at her.

She beamed, utterly proud of her creation, and made a heart shape with her hands. Blowing kisses

Price exhaled slowly through his nose, the way he did when briefing rookies who couldn’t tell left from right.

"Maintain composure," he muttered under his breath like a mantra. "You’ve handled worse. You’ve negotiated with bloody warlords."

And yet — when she bounded over, grabbed his hand, and tugged him toward the group photo with a mischievous grin — Price went willingly, ugly sweater and all.

Because, after all, Captain John Price — master of stealth, negotiation, tactics, and covert warfare — knew a battle worth losing when he saw one.

And he'd lose to her every single time.

masterlist

[cirilla-fiona-riannon]

Yoshiteru Ashikaga

A former 13th Shogun of the Muromachi Shogunate shrouded in many mysteries.

He reigns nobly over Kyoto, a city known as a "utopia."

For some reason, he seems interested in you and is trying to bring you to his side.

Come with me—for the sake of eternal peace and a perfect utopia.

Eternal and Unchanging

Birthday: May 20

Height: 174.5 cm

Blood Type: Type O

Hobbies: Absentmindedly listening to people's conversations while sipping tea and eating sweets

Special Skills: Memorization, swordsmanship

Favorite Food: Warm meals (though he has a sensitive tongue)

Image Flower: Snowdrop

Hisahide Matsunaga

A notorious warlord of the Sengoku era, known for repeatedly staging rebellions.

Blessed with handsome looks, impeccable manners, and a refined intellect. This guy seems to have it all.

There are even rumors that women can't help but fall for a certain hidden side of him.

If you don't want to be betrayed, always stay strong. Just kidding.

Master of Deception

Birthday: December 22

Height: 177.8 cm

Blood Type: Type A

Hobbies: He has many hobbies, but he quickly loses interest in them after picking them up.

Special Skills: Mixing gunpowder, negotiation

Favorite Food: Beltfish

Image Flower: Queen of the Night

Kuroda Kanbei

Though he always wears a gentle smile, he's an enigmatic strategist.

With intelligence beyond human comprehension, he commands the battlefield, his tactics deciding the fate of his soldiers.

Unbound by societal morals, he sees people as nothing more than his "playthings."

All humans are adorable. But among them, I like you the most.

Praise and Scorn

Birthday: February 8

Height: 183.0 cm

Blood Type: AB

Hobbies: Assembling small pieces of wood to build miniature castles

Special Skills: Foresight

Favorite Food: Sea bream

Image Flower: Wisteria

Saizo Kirigakure ♡

A timid young man who carries a subtle but unsettling air of danger.

He tends to ramble with pessimistic remarks.

It's said that enemies who encounter him on the battlefield at night never return alive.

Ah, I survived again. Sorry for being too strong.

Fate Unknown

Birthday: October 17

Height: 175.0 cm

Blood Type: Type B

Hobbies: Drawing

Special Skills: All-around ninja skills

Favorite Food: Meat

Image Flower: Moonflower

Sen no Rikyu

He has a flashy, suspicious appearance, yet he's made a name for himself as a master of the tea ceremony.

A dangerous man with a twisted sense of humor, he manipulates information during tea gatherings to lead others to misfortune.

Harboring a warped heart, he still scatters malice with a smile to this day.

Well then, shall we build the gates of our utopia atop a mountain of corpses and coat them in gaudy gold?

Taking Pleasure in Others' Misfortune

Birthday: September 19

Height: 179.0 cm

Blood Type: Type A

Hobbies: Tea ceremony

Special Skills: Secret discussions held in the tea room

Favorite Food: Unconventional, avant-garde Japanese sweets

Image Flower: Hydrangea

[squidsquidsquidsquidsquidgame]

Frontmen parent oneshot with cranky toddler in his arms while he is trying to give the guards instructions ?

Outbursts

Genre: Domestic Fluff, Humor Rating: T (mild language, family dynamics)

Summary: Running a secret death game is already stressful. Doing it while holding a wailing toddler? That’s next-level chaos. The Frontman tries to maintain authority while his kid fights nap time—and his wife is enjoying her only alone time this week. Warnings: Mild language, grumpy toddler behavior, mentions of bath time, frustrated but loving parenting Word Count: ~1,200 Setting: Post-season 1 AU where Frontman survives and leads a quieter, secretly domestic life.

The wail started just as the guards lined up for briefing.

Frontman exhaled slowly through his mask, adjusting the small bundle in his arms. His son—barefoot, red-cheeked, and one hundred percent done with the day—kicked again with surprising force for a toddler wearing a onesie that read “Nap King.”

“I said quiet briefing,” Frontman growled, shifting the weight of the squirming child to one hip. The circle-masked guards didn’t flinch, but one of them tilted ever so slightly to observe the child now trying to claw off his father’s hood.

“Sir—should we reconvene later?”

“No,” Frontman snapped. “We’ll do this now.”

The toddler hiccupped through a sob, small fists now tangled in the drawstrings of Frontman’s coat. Somewhere in the compound, the sound of bathwater sloshing echoed faintly—his wife’s designated break time. She’d called it “a non-negotiable hour of sanity,” and he hadn’t dared argue.

“Sir, Zone 3 requires additional security. The previous units—”

“Replace them with Mask Unit B. Rotate at—ow—” Frontman winced as tiny nails scraped across the exposed skin just under his chin. “—rotate at fourteen-hundred.”

The toddler wailed louder, cheeks scrunching into furious puffballs. A sippy cup was chucked to the floor with tragic finality.

Frontman bent, retrieved it, handed it back. The child hurled it again with precision aim and all the contempt of a royal betrayed.

“Sir… should we take the child?” one square-masked soldier offered hesitantly.

Frontman turned his masked face slowly toward the man. “Do you want to die today?”

“…No, sir.”

“Then keep listening.”

In the background, his comm crackled with more updates. Frontman juggled the headset with one hand, the baby with the other, and almost maintained his aura of cool menace—except for the part where the toddler grabbed the mask and yanked.

“Jun-seo, no—” he hissed, trying to twist away before the carefully constructed image shattered like a dropped porcelain mask.

From the hall, the unmistakable voice of his wife floated in, amused and unapologetic: “I’m in the bath, sweetheart! You’re doing great!”

He gritted his teeth. The guards stared. The toddler screamed.

“I want Mommmmyyyy!” Jun-seo shrieked, now fully committed to the role of Tormented Son of Evil Game Master.

“I know,” Frontman muttered, trying to bounce him gently while also issuing kill orders. “She’s in the bath. You’ll survive.”

“NOOOO!”

With a final grunt of parental resignation, Frontman tucked the toddler under one arm like a wriggling football and pointed at the nearest guard. “You—Circle—take over briefing. If anyone screws up, I’ll know. And I’ll still be mad even if I’m singing Baby Shark when it happens.”

“Yes, sir!”

He stormed off down the hall, the toddler still howling, his dignity trailing behind him like a broken mask string. From the bathroom, his wife laughed softly to herself.

Somewhere, buried under layers of leather, tactical genius, and perpetual irritation, Frontman smiled too.

[mariacallous]

There are situations in which tariffs are a useful tool to address a trade deficit, or to protect key sectors of a country’s economy. Then there are situations where you accuse a bunch of penguins on an uninhabited island of currency manipulation. Guess which one we’re living in?

This is the takeaway of the manifold tariffs announced by President Donald Trump on Wednesday afternoon. In addition to the penguin-occupied Heard and McDonald Islands, the tariffs target the British Indian Ocean Territory, whose sole occupants live on a joint US-UK military base on Diego Garcia island. Yes, the United States is levying reciprocal tariffs against its own troops.

And then there are the tariffs against countries that have actual goods and services on which US consumers depend. China: 54 percent. Vietnam: 46 percent. Cambodia: 49 percent. South Korea: 25 percent. No corner of the US consumer economy will go untouched. Prices will rise. The stock market is spiraling. A recession looms. The tech industry will be turned upside down. Mark Cuban, noted billionaire, is encouraging people to stockpile consumables before it’s too late.

It’s reckless, it’s absurd, and it’s also everything Donald Trump said plainly he would do on the campaign trail. True, he didn’t telegraph how misguided the methodology would be—you can read about it more here, but suffice to say it’s thoroughly detached from the realities of international trade—but he loudly, repeatedly promised to tariff his way to glory.

The stated goal is to return manufacturing jobs to the United States, which is a bit like resurrecting the dodo. The US still manufactures plenty of goods; it’s second only to China in annual output, according to the World Bank. But many of the industry’s jobs have been replaced by automation, a bottle you can’t re-cork. And higher domestic labor costs mean US-made products will inherently be more expensive, a trade-off American consumers have consistently rejected. All of this was already true in Trump’s first term. It’s even more so now.

And let’s say a plurality of companies did decide to reshore or set up factories in the United States. The timeline for those decisions and implementation is measured in years, if not decades, and follow-through can be spotty. (Just ask Foxconn.) So what happens in the meantime?

The rationale has all the weight of a soap bubble. There isn’t a world where the US suddenly manufactures all the items the country has decided to target. There’s a 47 percent tariff on Madagascar now. Do you know why the US has a trade deficit with Madagascar? They produce vanilla; we don’t. Unless we’re suddenly setting up vanilla assembly lines in Ohio, that’s not changing.

But maybe Trump’s so-called Liberation Day is all just a master negotiating ploy. “Everybody sit back, take a deep breath. Don’t immediately retaliate. Let’s see where this goes,” said Treasury secretary Scott Bessent on CNN Wednesday. “Because if you retaliate, that’s how we get escalation.”

It’s an interesting tactic, to start a bar brawl and ask everyone not to punch back in case someone gets hurt. It’s not working. China has already vowed to retaliate; the EU suggested that it could as well. (New Zealand is officially chill.)

Set the economics of this aside for a moment, though. The insult on top of that looming injury is how sloppy this all is. It’s the same blunt-force destruction that DOGE has implemented within the US government, that Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has imposed on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, now projected on a global scale. Yes, Elon Musk and DOGE have taken a blowtorch to federal agencies. But the tariffs are a helpful reminder that it's Trump who's fiddling while it all burns.

It’s the instinct to measure wins in units of pain and suffering. It’s an assumption that the only way to help yourself is to hurt other people. This is just what America is now.

The optimist’s case is that this is all a feint, that other countries will capitulate or at least make enough of a show of it that things will go back to normal. Seems unlikely. First of all, they’re already doing the opposite, all apologies to Bessent. But even if they weren’t, even if this is just posturing from the US, that posturing has consequences. Whatever equity the US has built up over the last century as a reputable trade partner has been largely wiped out by a businessman-president best known for his bankruptcies.

And then there’s the pessimist’s case, which also seems increasingly like the realist’s. The US is barreling toward a recession for no good reason, and dragging the world—and a few thousand penguins on remote Antarctic islands—down with it.

[kurithedweeb]

Do you think the Ro’Meave brothers’ O’khasian upbringing ever unexpectedly slips past their various masks? Not the princely noble stuff but the bits that remind you very viscerally that they’re from a kingdom built and sustained on war.

Vylad is the ultimate spy. He’s an expert at slipping through a crowd undetected, at finding perches and escape routes. His first instinct when raiding a place is to find all the maps and books that might compromise him or his allies and burn them. He’s a master archer who snipes from the shadow and flees before anyone that isn’t a Shadow Knight can even figure out which direction he’s in. In fact, he’s a master of evasive action, he’s been chased down at least three times in Season 1 and escaped without issue every time. He’s infiltrated any number of villages without anyone noticing. He could single handedly devastate entire armies by taking out a few key players.

Ooh, Zane. His tactics are all about morale and efficiency, he has things to do and if someone gets in his way he will demolish all they love and make them submit, but he’d do it from the shadows. He would burn the places of faith, burn the libraries, take a good hard look at whatever serves as a schoolhouse and once their morale is at rock bottom he’d give the enemy leader an ultimatum that makes it seem like Zane is going to try his best to convince the O’khasian forces to stand down. He makes himself seem like a savior, like he’s negotiating on his enemies’ behalf because he strives for peace. If he can’t manage that, he does the next best thing to protect his carefully cultivated persona; leave no survivor.

Garroth’s all about honor, but every so often when they’re plotting tactics he’ll suggest something absolutely brutal or make a comment about doing something like starving out their enemies or blocking their gates and setting the walls alight. He does it with such nonchalance, completely at ease while he points on the map where best to do it. He’ll say a warning is best made by setting an example, usually by gutting someone and hanging the corpse at the gate. That’s how O’khasis wages war, so that’s how Garroth learned to wage war. He doesn’t realize that what he’s said has super unsettled everyone else at the table until he looks up and finds someone staring at him like they don’t recognize him. Whenever he does this with Vylad in the planning session, Vylad will very readily agree with these tactics and that only unsettles their friends more.

These boys that grew up around the tyrant that leads the greatest military the region has to offer, war used to be their day to day. They should show it every once in a while. They should turn what O’khasis taught them against O’khasis itself.

[sabrinajenre96]

"Episode Two ~ Saturdays Are for Pancakes and Trouble"

Author note: I decided on a double update today...

Michael Robinavitch x reader x Robinavitch's kids

Warning ⚠️: well kids and chaos and Spencer obviously

Spencer was the first one awake.

Which meant everyone else was about to be awake too.

Kojo stretched beside her as she scrambled down from her bed, tiara already on, pajama shirt backward, and socks mismatched. She tiptoed into Sawyer’s room, dragging her plush bunny in one hand and Kojo following like a furry shadow.

“Pssst,” she whispered loudly. “Are you dead?”

Sawyer groaned from under a pile of pillows. “Go away.”

“You didn’t die from crutches. That’s good.”

Spencer climbed onto the bed without permission, Kojo curling up at the foot like this was a tactical nap mission. “Want pancakes?”

“Can’t you wake up Alex instead?” Sawyer muttered.

“Alex is boring when he sleeps. You at least complain. It’s funny.”

Sawyer peeked one eye open. “I twisted my ankle, not my patience.”

From down the hall, Diana’s voice floated through the house. “Spencer, don’t jump on your sister’s bed!”

Spencer paused mid-bounce. “I wasn’t jumping. I was... distributing joy.”

---

Alex was already awake and sitting on the kitchen counter, attempting to pour pancake batter one-handed while wearing a superhero cape. The other arm—his broken one—was in a neon green cast, now covered in doodles and a questionable joke drawn by his best friend.

“I’m the pancake master,” he declared, as the batter splattered across the counter and onto the floor.

“Pancake disaster,” Sawyer said, hobbling into the kitchen with crutches and a scowl.

“Hey, I have a disability. You can’t roast me.”

“Your brain was broken before your arm.”

Kojo barked once in agreement. Spencer, now wearing sunglasses and her tiara, nodded solemnly. “She’s not wrong.”

Diana entered, rubbing her temples. “Where are your parents?”

“Still sleeping,” Alex answered. “We’re letting them rest. Because we’re responsible.”

Diana narrowed her eyes at the flour cloud forming behind him. “Spencer, are you feeding Kojo again?”

“Nooo,” Spencer said, standing in front of Kojo’s very full dog bowl. “He’s just... emotionally snacking.”

---

Upstairs, Y/N stirred when she smelled something burning.

Michael blinked awake next to her. “Why does it smell like regret and syrup?”

Y/N groaned. “Because the children are awake. And cooking.”

Michael flopped his head back on the pillow. “It’s Saturday. I refuse to parent until at least 9:00.”

“You’re already parenting. With your nose.”

Kojo barked again. Loudly.

Michael sighed. “Okay, okay. I’ll go. But if someone’s hair is on fire, you owe me a back rub.”

---

Downstairs, the kitchen was a war zone of flour, eggshells, syrup puddles, and one very enthusiastic Spencer who had now taped a paper badge to her shirt.

“I’m the Kitchen Captain!” she announced.

Michael stepped into the kitchen. Stared. Blinked.

“Kitchen Captain,” he said slowly, “you’re under arrest for culinary crimes.”

Spencer giggled and ran for Kojo, who launched into play mode instantly. Alex tried flipping a pancake—and failed. Sawyer took one look at the pan and said, “I’m going to pretend I don’t live here.”

Michael, trying not to laugh, began damage control. “Okay, pancake production is now a two-adult job.”

Y/N entered, tying her robe. “I thought I smelled waffles.”

“There were waffles,” Alex muttered. “There was a casualty.”

“You mean the waffle maker?” Sawyer asked.

“No, I mean my dignity.”

---

Eventually, breakfast was salvaged. Pancakes were flipped, coffee brewed, and music played while the kids laughed, bickered, and negotiated syrup privileges.

Afterward, the kids sprawled out in the living room—Sawyer texting her friends, Alex reading a comic, Spencer asleep on Kojo like a tiny human blanket.

Michael handed Y/N her second coffee and nudged her gently.

“You know,” he said, settling beside her on the couch. “They may be tiny maniacs, but they’re our maniacs.”

Y/N sipped her coffee and smiled. “Exactly why I’m making you handle bedtime tonight.”

Michael groaned. “You drive a hard bargain, Dr. Robinavitch.”

She leaned in and kissed his cheek. “You love it.”

---

Next morning: chaos. That night: peace. Tomorrow? Who knows.

But today... was a good day.

[jadeshifting]

— WIZARDING SPORTS ( AS PLAYED BY THE SERPENTS )

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆. ࿐࿔

QUIDDITCH . as the most famous and most important wizarding sport, it’s an absolute non-negotiable for the Slytherin kids from wealthy families to be amazing at it. they would be considered athletic embarrassments if they weren’t

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆. ࿐࿔

MATTHEO’s reckless style as a Beater is both thrilling and dangerous, and his ability to hit Bludgers with incredible force ensures that opponents rarely have time to breathe. he’s ferocious, and though his tactics are sometimes chaotic, his raw power and quick decision-making are imperative

THEO’s approach to being a Beater is far more measured and thoughtful than Mattheo’s, though they work together. he uses the Bludgers strategically, not just for offense, but to disrupt the opposing team’s play. he’s patient and calculating, and excels at defending his team with precise moves

as the Seeker, I embody an otherworldly focus, eyes scanning the skies with an intensity that borders on hypnotic. i’m able to dart through the air with speed and precision, my broomstick practically an extension of my own body. when the Golden Snitch finally appears, i chase it down like a fury until i snatch it out of the air

PANSY brings her aggressive spirit to Quidditch, focusing primarily on defense. she’s relentless in blocking and intercepting passes, and her sharp instincts make her an excellent player in tight situations. her tenacity is frustrating to her opponents, and though she’s not as much of a scorer as the other Chasers, her role in controlling the game is vital

BLAISE is a Chaser whose sleek, fluid movements make him a master at weaving through defenders. with a natural flair for strategic plays, he’s an effortless team player, threading passes and setting up goals with an almost languid grace. his calm under pressure and impeccable aim make him an invaluable asset on the pitch

LORENZO is a steady presence to the Quidditch field. he’s not flashy, but he sets his teammates up for success. he’s highly dependable when it comes to securing goals or defending against opposing Chasers, and he’s the perfect foil to the more chaotic players, offering stability and support when the game gets intense

MILLICENT brings a quiet precision to Quidditch, approaching every play with an almost surgical grace. she’s not one for flashy moves or risky plays; instead, she thrives on strategy, calmly weaving through the opposition. her gentle but firm control of the Quaffle, combined with her patient, calculated passes, makes her a steady presence on the pitch

DRACO thrives in the spotlight of Quidditch, though his desire to show off sometimes causes him to take unnecessary risks. he’s a talented Chaser or Seeker depending on the game, with excellent aim and a confident presence, but his ego often gets in the way of making the best play. Draco tends to focus on his personal glory rather than the team’s success, and his pride can cost the team

ASTORIA and DAPHNE’s synergy on the Quidditch pitch makes them a talented Chaser pair. Daphne’s bold, daring plays mix well with Astoria’s elegant and calculated movements. together they make synchronized, graceful plays, and while they may not always be the loudest players on the pitch, their quiet strength makes them a force to be reckoned with

ARCHERY . while there’s plenty of archery-related enchantments, the actual sport of wizarding archery is similar to muggle archery, since archers aren’t allowed to use any spells to aid their aim. however, targets do move, jump, spin, or attack the archer in wizarding archery

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆. ࿐࿔

quiet but deadly, THEO’s steady hand and unshakeable focus make him a lethal competitor. he is known for hitting impossible targets with an eerie calm, preferring precision over spectacle

impatient and prone to frustration, MATTHEO struggles with archery’s precision. his shots are powerful but often miss the mark, and his frustration drives him to even more reckless attempts

BLAISE shoots with style, and his casual attitude both stops him from laser-focusing in efficiently enough to nail difficult targets, and provides him with the measured calmness needed to have decent accuracy

MY focus and precision translate well into archery, though it lacks a lot of the excitement i typically enjoy in sports. regardless, my keen eye and steady hand make me a natural at it

PANSY enjoys the attention and spectatorship of archery, but her form is largely inconsistent. she can get caught up focusing on theatrics rather than precision, but when she moves past that, she hits a decent amount of targets

the way MILLICENT shoots seems more like a feather’s touch than a competitive sport, she maneuver’s the bow gently and, though she nearly always hits the target, her shots lack power. still, she’s a great shot

DRACO takes archery with deadly seriousness, his form is impeccable and graceful, and overly rehearsed. he performs well almost always, but Theo has advised him to take more risks, since Draco only takes safe, surefire shots

a balanced archer, LORENZO does pretty decently most of the time. he’s steady and strong enough to maneuver the bow with ease, but can overthink simple shots and has a hard time following moving targets

ASTORIA excels with quiet precision, and her disciplined approach earns her high marks more often than not (Theo has criticized how methodical she is, saying she should find more enjoyment in it.) DAPHNE enjoys the challenge, but is easily distracted, which is a huge disadvantage to her

FENCING . though the mechanics are similar, wizard fencing is much more like sword-fighting with a narrow sword than actual muggle fencing. the wizarding version has much more contact and much less armor, with nicks and cuts essentially being a given

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆. ࿐࿔

a natural at the sport, MATTHEO’s fiery temper drives his aggressive, relentless style. his duels are thrilling and unpredictable, leaving spectators and his opponent in awe or dismay. though his technique is rough around the edges, every movement of his is a calculated act

THEO’s strategic mind serves him well, though his style is defensive and measured. this frustrates Mattheo when they fence, who prefers a fast-paced duel. he wins countless points for precision, but lacks the aggressive edge

I approach fencing with a calculated elegance, balancing power and precision. while i greatly prefer sports that involve flying or spellcasting, my competitive spirit pushes me to excel, regardless of how much i enjoy it

BLAISE treats fencing as a mental game and a performance. his casual attitude while playing irritates the more aggressive fencers, but his unpredictability thanks to this can often land him surprising strikes

MILLICENT’s timidness with physical sparring makes her less than powerful, but phenomenal at defensive maneuvers, as she’s so focused on watching her own back and avoiding injury. this doesn’t help her win, though

DRACO’s fencing is polished and precise, his movements carefully calculated. however, it’s easy for his opponents to get under his skin, and he gets caught up in appearances and misses opportunities for aggressive strikes. he has a particularly fiery fencing rivalry with Mattheo

PANSY’s dramatic flair makes her fencing wild and inconsistent. she’s often more focused on making an impression than winning, often sacrificing points for showmanship

though he lacks fire, LORENZO’s speed is what serves him best, making him able to dodge extremely heavy-handed attacks and return some of his own. still, his quickness doesn’t entirely replace his lack of aggression

ASTORIA has a methodical precision that, though it makes her a slow player, serves her well and makes her a formidable opponent. on the other hand, DAPHNE is erratic and struggles with the rigid format, often getting too frustrated to be truly great

HORSEBACK DUELING . often likened to jousting, a sport almost entirely about showmanship and charisma rather than actual magical effectiveness, that includes firing blasting curses at eachother and making other attempts to throw your opponent off of their horse as you gallop past eachother

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆. ࿐࿔

a sport that I thrive at, where my razor-sharp reflexes and dazzling spellcasting are showcased. i’m known for my precision and poise, in both casting and horsemanship, and the knife’s edge of brutal offensive efficiency and entertaining flair is where my magic often lives, which is perfect for this sport

MATTHEO has the aggression for the sport, and excels with the effectiveness of his spells and the efficiency of his dueling, but he lacks a certain kind of elegance that’s required to fit into the sport’s grandeur

surprisingly adept, THEO focuses on strategy over flash. his spells are calculated and his horsemanship is steady, which earns him respect in the sport, but he’s too clinical to really excel in it

BLAISE treats each event like the show that it is, and focuses on his charisma over his skill, which serves him well. his spells keep spectators entertained regardless of their effectiveness, but his decent horsemanship lacks the effort to be truly great

MILLICENT’s coordination is strong, but she lacks required finesse. her spells are dramatic and entertaining but imprecise, as she’s more focused on flair than effectiveness

DRACO performs well, though he tends to overthink every move, making him appear rigid. his spells a powerful but lack a natural flow, and he gets visibly frustrated at his inability to match the grace of players like myself and Astoria

fierce but unrefined, PANSY’s strength helps her in offensive dueling, though she struggles with the more technical aspects. her horse control is solid, but her style is anything but elegant

LORENZO’s creativity makes him interesting to watch, as his spells often have an unpredictable flair, but his lack of ability to take risks makes him an inefficient offensive dueler in this setting

ASTORIA brings her characteristic precision to the sport and performs admirably. DAPHNE, however, clashes with the seriousness of dueling with her playful nature, but she handles the horse well

˚　　　　✦　　　.　　. 　 ˚　.　　　　　 . ✦　　　 　˚　　　　 . ★⋆. ࿐࿔

[mischievous-hermione]

🤤 WIP that I obsessively follow

My favorite WIP these days is Hostile Negotiation Tactics written by ingenious @ninepiecesofcrait

This beautifully written fic captures all our afflictions in a wonderfully witty and ironic way. I especially applaud the author for taking down misogynistic attitudes, gaslighting, and creature/gender discrimination—all in a one bloody sentence! Hats off to the master!

And Draco’s retaliation on Hermione’s behalf—crushing Hodgson in his own cunning way 😏—was absolutely epic.

Read free on AO3: https://archiveofourown.org/works/62056576/chapters/158709691

[gem-femmes]

How to Master the Dinner Party Power Dynamic

Dinner parties are where alliances are made, impressions are cemented and hierarchies are quietly negotiated -- all while you’re trying to keep spinach out of your teeth.

Here’s how to navigate the room, charm the crowd and leave as the person everyone wants to sit next to next time.

🥂✨1. Timing Your Arrival: Goldilocks Style

Too early, and you’re rearranging the napkins with the host. Too late, and you look like you think you’re that important.

Sweet spot: Arrive 10-15 minutes after the official start time. This gives the host time to settle, but you’re still early enough to scope out the room.

Pro move: If you’re close with the host, text ahead to see if they need anything - instant brownie points.

🥂✨2. The Perfect Seat Selection

Where you sit can make or break your night.

Power position: Aim for the middle of the table. Sitting at the ends makes you look like you’re holding court (not great unless you are the host).

Tactic: If it’s informal, hang back slightly and let others choose first—then slip into the best available seat. It’s low-key strategic.

If assigned seating is in play? Work your charm wherever you land. (Yes, even next to “that” guy.)

🥂✨3. Start Small, Think Big

Your opening gambit sets the tone.

Icebreakers: Ask about something low-pressure, like how they know the host or what they’re most excited to eat.

Big moves later: Once the vibe is friendly, segue into meaningful conversations. “What’s your dream project?” lands better after appetizers than before.

Remember: your goal is to connect, not interrogate.

🥂✨4. Be the Table’s MVP

The best guests keep the conversation flowing without hogging the spotlight.

Loop people in: Notice someone getting left out? Ask, “What do you think, [Name]?” It’s subtle but powerful.

Deflect drama: If the conversation veers into awkward territory (politics, anyone?), steer it elsewhere. “Okay, I have to know -- what’s everyone’s go-to comfort food?”

Great guests make everyone feel included and comfortable. Be that person.

🥂✨5. Compliment, but Make It Genuine

Compliments are like seasoning—too little, and it’s bland; too much, and it’s overwhelming.

On the host: “This setup is amazing. Where did you get these table settings?” (Pro tip: Hosts love hearing their effort was noticed.)

On others: Highlight something personal, like a unique accessory or an interesting anecdote they shared.

A well-placed compliment can turn a casual acquaintance into a potential ally.

🥂✨6. Handle Awkward Moments Like a Pro

Spilled your drink? Knocked over the breadbasket? No one’s immune to a faux pas.

Own it with humor: “Guess I’m trying to give this table some character!”

Stay calm: Most people will forget it happened five minutes later, unless you make it a big deal.

Confidence is your best recovery tool.

🥂✨7. The Exit That Leaves Them Wanting More

Knowing when (and how) to leave is an underrated skill.

Leave on a high note: If the energy’s dipping or you’ve hit peak charm for the evening, it’s time to go.

Thank the host twice: Once before you leave and again the next day (a thoughtful text or even a small thank-you gift goes a long way).

The best exits are smooth, gracious and perfectly timed. Think mystery and allure, not lingering until the chairs get stacked.

🥂✨The Dinner Table Is Your Stage

A dinner party is less about the food and more about the connections you make. Whether you’re networking, socializing or just there for the dessert, mastering the dynamics means balancing confidence with care.

Nail this, and you’ll always be on the guest list -- and maybe the one throwing the next party!

[youvebeenlivingfictional]

Kinktober 2023 Masterlist

I’m participating in Kinktober 2023 this year using this list by @flightlessangelwings​ . If you’d like to be tagged, please leave a comment on this post or send in an ask.

Day One - Frank Castle x Reader

Warnings: Overstimulation ; impact play; fingering; nipple play; dirty talk—praise and degradation

Day Two - Frankie Morales x Reader

Warnings: Public sex (car sex); role playing; blowjob; cum play; fingering

Day Three - Diego Jimenez x Reader

Warnings: Reader is the monster; vampirism; mention of drug use; mention of alcohol consumption; blood drinking (because vampires); vaginal sex

Day Four - Santiago Garcia x Reader

Warnings: Public sex; sex pollen; rough sex; unprotected sex; creampie; hair pulling

Day Five - Jax Teller x Reader

Warnings: Table sex/desk sex; enemies to enemies who fuck; vaginal sex; unsafe sex

Day Six - Josh Lyman x Reader

Warnings: Lots of dialogue!!; phone sex; power imbalance; dirty talk; praise kink; masturbation

Day Seven - Matt Murdock x Reader

Warnings: Morning sex; fingering; oral sex; safe sex; vaginal sex

Day Eight - Rafael Barba x Reader

Warnings: Cockwarming; restraints; spanking; impact play; Dom/Brat dynamics; choking; rough sex; oral sex; vaginal sex; cum shot; cum play

Day Nine - Nathan Bateman x Reader

Warnings: Rimming; fingering; masturbation; pegging; blowjobs; cunnilingus; praise kink

Day Ten - Poe Dameron x Reader

Warnings: Stripping; car sex; clothed man/partially clothed woman; grinding

Day Eleven - Bruce Wayne x Reader

Warnings: Blindfolding; hide-and-seek/prey-play adjacent; blowjob; cunnilingus; vaginal sex; unsafe sex; creampie

Day Twelve - Will Miller x Reader

Warnings: Established relationship; fluff; formal wear; oral sex; safe sex

Day Thirteen - Jim Kirk x Reader

Warnings: Anonymous sex; public sex; oral sex; spit as lube; safe sex

Day Fourteen - Oberyn Martell x Reader

Warnings: Prostitution/sex work; canon-typical sex work; dirty talk; sub Oberyn Martell; hair pulling; restraints; orgasm control/denial; masturbation; breeding kink; oral sex; gag use; unsafe sex; creampie

Day Fifteen - Duke Leto Atreides x Reader

Warnings: Free use; semi-public sex; oral sex; fingering; unsafe sex; creampie

Day Sixteen - Indiana Jones x Reader

Warnings: Role reversal; period-typical attitudes toward sex; vaginal sex; riding unsafe sex; creampie

Day Seventeen - Ben Miller x Reader

Warnings: Praise kink; dirty talk; blowjob; fingering; grinding; semi-public sex

Day Eighteen - Tommy Shelby x Reader

Warnings: Masturbation; mutual masturbation; fingering; handjob; vaginal sex; unsafe sex

Day Nineteen - Bradley 'Rooster' Bradshaw x Reader

Warnings: Somnophilia; Bradley 'I Eat Pussy for My Own Pleasure' Bradshaw; anal sex; anal plug; safe sex; vaginal fingering

Day Twenty - Benny Borracho Magalon x Reader

Warnings: Sex toys; fingering; blowjobs

Day Twenty-One - Harvey Specter x Reader

Warnings: Hate sex; oral sex; semi-public sex; table sex; spit as lube; safe sex; negotiating tactics that would get you disbarred

Day Twenty-Two - Marcus Pike x Reader

Warnings: Reader is an older virgin; fingering; oral sex; loss of virginity; vaginal sex; safe sex

Day Twenty-Three - Jonathan Levy x Reader

Warnings: Dirty talk; vaginal sex; cunnilingus; fingering; unsafe sex; creampie; breeding kink

Day Twenty-Four - James Bond x Reader

Warnings: Exes; domineering James Bond; fingering; choking; hate sex; mostly naked woman, clothed man

Day Twenty-Five - Shiv Roy x AFAB!Reader

Warnings: Infidelity; mentions of previous adolescent antics; mirror sex; oral sex; fingering; grinding; semi-public sex

Day Twenty-Six - SithMaster!Obi-Wan Kenobi x Reader

Sith Master!Obi-Wan; Sith Apprentice!Reader; Power imbalance; Force-choking; deep throating; grinding; masturbation; choking (without the Force); degradation

Day Twenty-Seven - Christopher Pike x Reader

Warnings: Fluff; yearning; kitchen sex; vaginal sex; improper use of buttercream

Day Twenty-Eight - Andromache of Scythia (The Old Guard) x Reader

Warnings: Intercrural Sex/grinding; nipple play; fighting; light degradation

Day Twenty-Nine - Don Draper x Reader

Warnings: Semi-public sex; fingering; vaginal sex; unsafe sex; creampie; gagging with clothing

Day Thirty - Jake 'Hangman' Sersin x Reader

Warnings: Oral sex/cunnilingus; face sitting; Jake 'I Get Hard When I Eat Pussy’ Seresin

Day Thirty- One - A Thank You :)

[phantasm-ae]

Okay so I had this idea and I just JSJSJJSJSJSKKS. Anyways here it is. I hope you like it🥺

cw: some fluff

HEADCANON: Soap and Ghost got the wrong intel. Extraction at a… birthday party?

Pairing: Ghost and Soap

it was supposed to be a quick recon. Nothing out of the ordinary. Something they've done a couple out of a hundred times in their lifetime.

Check the warehouse. Mark supplies. Report back.

In. Out.

Easy.

Except Soap and Ghost being Soap and Ghost. Somehow took the wrong door and instead of being met with a supply stash of those black market ammo crates and smuggled gear Laswell briefed them on 2 weeks ago. They were instead met with a cascade of confetti. A blaring of colorful horns. Balloons floating around like some budget dream sequence and a bloody banner sagging lazily across the ceiling with the words "HAPPY 8TH BIRTHDAY JAYDEN" propped up by two mini-Spiderman balloons.

The two cartoony figures swaying ominously in the breeze of the open warehouse door.

Ghost and Soap stood fucking stock still at the sight.

Two hulking and massive men in full tactical gear. Rifles on hand. Kevlar. Christ even bloody prepped with face paint on -- were now staring into the abyss of the suburban chaos in front of them

A table covered in Spiderman themed paper plates. Crowd of sugared-up kids frozen mid-scream at the sight of them. A magician in a sparkly vest holding a rabbit, wide-eyed and doozy. A dad in cargo shorts holding a phone, mid-picture. And in the center, a fucking stunned kid wearing a party hat and face paint… that eerily resembled Ghost’s skull mask.

Soap’s finger hovered awkwardly near the safety switch on his rifle. Ghost just muttered, “...fuckin' hell.”

Then chaos.

One of the kids let out a shriek, but not out of fear -- rather out of sheer and enthusiastic delight. “COOL ARMY GUYS!”

Another yelled, “THEY’RE HERE FOR THE PARTY!” “LOOK, ONE OF THEM’S A SKELETON!”

Ghost could only stand up straighter at that. Eyes narrowed and brows furrowed in annoyance and unease. Turning slightly to Soap and muttering flatly, “This is your fault.”

"How's this ma fault?"

“You’re the one who said ‘let’s take the shortcut.’” “It wis labeled—!

"Labeled with what?"

"Ma gut"

Soap then. Now also irritated and confused. Tried to shoo off some wee scunners around his boots and gear. Some palming and prodding their tiny fingers into velcro and buckles -- "Aw fuck. Dinnae touch that. That's ma di-- uhh... magazine" -- almost swatting a bairn silly for trying to reach for his flashbang.

“Oi! That’s not a toy, ya wee gremlin -- put that down before we all see God.”

And the kid just. This 3'5 kid with some frosting and glitter smeared across his shirt just giggled like Soap said the funniest thing on earth. Clutching the round cap like it was a new Hot Wheels and darting off into the bouncy castle with alarming speed before Soap could pry the dangerous things off of his sticky fingers.

Soap stared after him, jaw slack. "The child's armed"

Soap immediately tried to backpedal toward the door, one hand reaching out blindly for Ghost. But the brooding and hulking mass of a man -- all 6'4 and weighty muscle -- was cornered by some determined little girl wearing various kinds of glittery plastic sheriff badges and a unicorn headband and -- God help them -- trying to handcuff Ghost still with rainbow slap bracelets. A proper master of hostage negotiation she was. She had him pinned down Simon let her. A slap bracelet now stretched around Ghost's wrist, holding him in place like some deranged form of child’s play.

And Ghost, deadpan and trying to remain indifferent despite his amused and softened tone. A distinct air of a man emotionally unraveled, muttered, “Soap, you’ve made contact with the enemy.”

Lips quirking up a bit beneath the mask as she let him lead her to Soap.

“She’s ten!” Soap hissed. Unable to do anything else. Flinching as the girl snapped one of the bracelets on his wrist as well with terrifying precision. "An’ she’s armed wi’ accessories!"

Another kid zipped by them, shrieking with laughter, waving what looked horrifyingly like a half-unwrapped glow stick taped to a toy pistol. Ghost sidestepped just in time to avoid being hit in the shin.

And somewhere in the bloody distance, a karaoke machine started playing Let It Go.

And then came the giggle again.

That same little demon child with the flashbang poked his frosting-smeared head out of the bouncy castle flap, holding the device above his head like Simba in The Lion King, yelling, “LOOK WHAT I GOT!”

Every adult in the room clapped, thinking it was a toy too. Fucking idiots

Soap grabbed Ghost by the tactical vest and hissed, “If we don’t leave right now, that wee gremlin’s gonna detonate us into the stratosphere and the last thing we’ll see is Elsa.”

Well fuck that. Ghost wanted to die sure. But not to some fucking disney song in the background while his body gets scattered into smithereens. Ghost didn’t even argue anymore. He turned. Slowly removed the colored straps on his wrists with an apologetic nod toward the glitter-covered child still trying to fashion a tiara out of pipe cleaners for him -- “Sorry, love. Your boyband’s disbanding yeah?” -- and pushed open the exit with his boot. Both men. Once covererd with warpaint and eyeblack, now stumbled out into the daylight -- covered in glitter, foam sword dents, and existential horror.

But before either of them could properly make a break for it though, a woman -- possibly the birthday boy’s mother -- strode up, wine cooler in hand, phone in the other. “Oh my God, you’re the entertainment?! You didn’t tell me you were doing full cosplay -- this is incredible! What’s your TikTok?”

Soap only blinked.

Ghost shook his head, clearly contemplating his life choices.

“We didn’t hire—” Soap started.

“Do you do face painting?” a child asked Ghost, reaching up to touch his mask.

Ghost took a step back. “Touch me and I vanish.”

That somehow made him more mysterious. A whole circle of kids now followed him like ducklings.

“Do a trick!” someone yelled.

Soap glanced around at the swarm of kids and chaos and, seeing no way out without causing a scene, turned to Ghost with the deadest eyes possible. “Mate, we’re in it up tae our eyeballs”

Ghost sighed heavily, albeit relaxing as he saw the wee lass approach again -- this time, not with slap bracelets, but with her finished paper crown, now glittered, crooked, and proudly labeled “KInG GhoSt” in chunky stickers.

She beamed at him, arms raised in offering.

And Ghost -- Ghost, who had walked through fire, cleaving a man from ear to ear, racked up three targets point blank in one shot, and once barreled through two doors in a single kick -- did not protest. Didn’t move. Didn’t growl or flee.

He simply knelt.

The crown was placed on his head with all the ceremony of a royal coronation, and the little girl patted his shoulder like she was knighting him.

“Fine. Ten minutes. No longer.”

3 hours later, Soap was engaged in a full-on Nerf battle behind the bounce house, dual-wielding foam dart guns he confiscated from a particularly rowdy six-year-old. And Ghost. All tank, heavy, and bruising muscle was sitting in a lawn chair with two toddlers now on his lap and that little girl -- Ella -- sleeping on his shoulder with a half-finished juice pouch in her unconscious grip.

The magician quit.

The cake was served. Soap was somehow made to cut it with a plastic bayonet.

And Laswell. Watching through the drone feed back at base after her two best operatives went complete radio silent could only mutter -- “...I don’t even want to know.”

Price would ask questions. Soap would lie.

Ghost would deny everything.

But Jayden?

Jayden would remember and so would his little sister Ella.

The flashbang though? It was tucked into some kid’s pocket, shiny and definitely armed, but would be later found in Jayden's toy box, where it sat like a prized possession next to a small mountain of Legos, a collection of Hot Wheels, and what appeared to be a very, very well-loved stuffed rabbit modeled after the skeleton guy.

Soap didn’t realize any of this though until a week later when a small package arrived at base. His name written in bright, bubbly handwriting on the envelope -- Jayden and Ella. Soap opened it slowly, half expecting it to explode in his face, but instead, there was a note tucked inside:

"THanK u fOR tHe PArtY Mr. BubBleS ! ThIs BELonGS 2 U - J AnD E."

And nestled carefully in the corner of the box was the flashbang. Clean. Untouched. But most of all -- in one bleedin' piece. Thank fuckin' Christ. The stealthy and dangerous thing nestled in some more shredded color paper and glitters?? in the box like it was just another toy.

Soap got a proper mouthing from Price after that though.

Something about civilian safety. An OPSEC violation? an AR190-03... Christ he didn't know. He forgot. Actually it all bled out into some blurry, distant, and obtuse backdrop. Half-listening like he always did.

Because back on his desk. Scattered. Cluttered. Disorganized and messy -- pinned what Soap taught to be one of the best masterpiece he's ever seen and received in his life.

A crayon drawing of himself in full tactical gear, looking like the proudest soldier on earth, and Ghost, tragically interpreted as a “skeleton king” with a bloody smiley face.

But most importantly. Taped beside it. Creased. Glittery. Slightly sticky with colored and shimmering glue -- was the crooked paper crown. Still intact. Still regal. And still Ghost's.

Aye.

it was worth it.

masterlist

[hiddenincommand]

The Apex of Power: The Three Supreme Archetypes of Alpha Males

Not all Alpha Males are equal. Hierarchy exists even among the dominant.

Among the elite, three distinct archetypes rise above all others—each one a specialized manifestation of absolute power.

These men are not simply strong or ambitious.

They are not leaders.

They are not commanders.

They are masters.

They do not ask. They do not negotiate. They dictate.

🔹 The Gentleman Alpha (The Aristocratic Alpha)

Position in the Hierarchy: Between Elite Alpha & Strategic Alpha

The ruler of high society—a man of subtle dominance and calculated precision. He does not rely on brute force; he bends the world to his will through intellect, manipulation, and effortless control.

✔ Master of refinement, etiquette, and social supremacy.

✔ Wields power through charm, deception, and absolute self-discipline.

✔ Never emotional. Never desperate. Always in control.

✔ His presence alone forces obedience—without needing to raise his voice.

🔹 Examples:

• The British aristocrats who ruled empires with an iron fist wrapped in velvet.

• The statesmen who shaped nations with diplomacy as their weapon.

• The captains of industry who wielded wealth like a sword.

🔥 Key Traits: Charisma | Strategy | Refinement | Social Power | Intellectual Dominance

🎭 The world does not resist him—because it does not realize it is already in his grasp.

🔹 The Officer Alpha (The Command Alpha)

Position in the Hierarchy: Between Strategic Alpha & Dominant Alpha

A force of military precision, discipline, and raw authority. The embodiment of tactical leadership. The imposing commander who does not participate in systems—he controls them.

✔ Leads with absolute authority—his word is law.

✔ Dominates through strategy, control, and unwavering discipline.

✔ Unforgiving. Brutal when necessary. Composed in every decision.

✔ His leadership is not questioned—it is obeyed.

🔹 Examples:

• The generals who led empires and dictated the course of history.

• The officers who commanded armies and shaped military doctrine.

• The warriors who conquered both battlefields and minds with ruthless precision.

🔥 Key Traits: Discipline | Leadership | Tactical Mastery | Ruthlessness | Chain of Command

⚔ He does not beg for loyalty—he demands it.

🔹 The Gentleman-Officer Alpha (The Apex of the Apex)

Position in the Hierarchy: Between Elite Alpha & Apex Alpha

The rarest of all. The most complete manifestation of power.

The perfect fusion of aristocratic refinement and military dominance.

The final form of absolute control.

He holds both the pen and the sword—ruling men in high society and commanding them in war.

✔ Combines strategy, social influence, and battlefield supremacy into one force.

✔ Respected in high society, feared in war, untouchable in command.

✔ Controls men with a glance, an order, or the mere weight of his presence.

✔ He does not compete—he dictates the game itself.

🔹 Examples:

• The officers of the British Empire who ruled vast dominions with an iron will.

• The elite commanders—Napoleon, Rommel, Patton—who shaped the world.

• The unseen power players who manipulate global events from behind the scenes.

🔥 Key Traits: Total Authority | Elite Strategy | Psychological Mastery | Commanding Presence | Ruthless Elegance

🦅 Even among Alphas, he remains untouchable.

🔺 The Ultimate Hierarchy of Dominance

🔹 The Gentleman-Officer Alpha → The most evolved Apex Alpha—the pinnacle of command.

🔹 The Gentleman Alpha → The master of refinement, social dominance, and psychological control.

🔹 The Officer Alpha → The enforcer of law, discipline, and unwavering hierarchy.

💀 These are the men who do not just rule their worlds—they rule the world itself.

The only question is—

Which one will you become?

[babylon-crashing]

🜃 THE MAGICIAN – Card I

"The Magician is the Tide-Commanding Sorcerer—the one who speaks to the Dragon King in the language of stolen storms. Their power is not gentle. To wield it, you must stand where the sea hates the shore and the sky fears the waves." [Notes.]

TITLE: The Dragon’s Tide-Caller / 龍潮師 [Lóng Cháoshī]

MYTHIC ARCHETYPE: Mazu’s Pirate-Sorcerer

TAOIST PARALLEL: Mazu [媽祖] as the warrior-priestess aspect, but merged with Qing dynasty pirate-queen Ching Shih [鄭氏]—a figure who commanded fleets with divine favor.

PIRATE TWIST: Instead of a passive goddess, she’s a storm-summoning admiral who learned secrets from the Dragon Kings [龍王]. Her "tools" are pirate relics:

Wand → A whalebone staff inscribed with tidal sigils.

Cup → A jade compass that steers by star-qi [氣] instead of wind.

Sword → A monsoon-cutlass [刀刃, dāorèn] that draws lightning.

Pentacle → A salt-crusted doubloon stamped with the Bagua [八卦].

WHY THE MAGICIAN? She doesn’t just pray for calm seas—she bends them.

TAOIST PIRATE SYMBOLISM

KEYWORDS [Upright]:

Wuwei [無為] as tactical patience—waiting for the perfect wave.

"Pirate feng shui" [arranging ship decks by elemental flow].

The huolongjing [火龍經, fire-dragon manuals] of naval warfare as spellbooks.

KEYWORDS [Reversed]:

A ship’s hex [艏咒, shǒu zhòu]—cursed navigation.

"Drowning the jade" [玉沉, yù chén]: wasting power.

The Dragon Kings ignoring your bribes.

INTERPRETATION: This card is for when you must command chaos. Like Tangaroa, the Tide-Caller knows the sea is alive—but here, the ocean is a negotiation. You don’t conquer it; you deal with it.

RITUAL 1: THE COMPASS OF FOUR DRAGONS [四海龍羅盤, Sìhǎi Lóng Luópán]

[Inspired by Ming-era nautical sorcery and Fujianese sea-witch rites]

PURPOSE: To align your will with the Four Dragon Kings [四海龍王] for mastery.

MATERIALS:

A bowl of brine [with a drop of your blood].

FOUR TOKENS:

FIRE: A ship’s nail [heated in flame].

WATER: A shark’s tooth.

AIR: A torn sail-scrap.

EARTH: A stolen temple coin.

A dagger [to carve the Bagua into driftwood].

RITUAL:

Draw the Bagua on driftwood, then float it in the brine. Chant:

东龙为我扬帆， 西龙为我扬帆， 南龙为我焚烧敌人， 北龙为我掩藏踪迹。 "The Eastern Dragon raises the sail for me, The Western Dragon raises the sail for me, The Southern Dragon burns the enemies for me, The Northern Dragon hides my tracks for me."

DROP EACH TOKEN INTO THE BOWL:

Nail hisses → Fire Dragon awakens.

Tooth sinks → Water Dragon stirs.

Scrap floats → Air Dragon listens.

Coin spins → Earth Dragon bargains.

STAB THE DRIFTWOOD—if it floats, the Dragons accept. If it sinks, they demand more.

PARALLEL MYTHOLOGY TITLE: The Sea-Caller / One Who Commands the Tides MYTHIC ARCHETYPE: Tangaroa [Polynesian Ocean Deity] MYTHOLOGICAL FIGURE: Tangaroa [Aotearoa / Māori Tradition] REGION: Polynesia, especially Māori tradition in Aotearoa [New Zealand] FORM: Oceanic deity; father of fish and reptiles; master of all sea-borne life TALE: Tangaroa is the god of the sea, father of the fish, and one of the primal atua [gods] in Māori cosmology. He constantly contends with Tāne Mahuta, god of the forests, in a cosmological conflict: those who dwell in the sea versus those who live on land. In some tellings, Tangaroa seeks to reclaim everything from the land back into the ocean. He is both a creator and destroyer—elemental, full of force, and endlessly generative. WHY THE MAGICIAN? Tangaroa possesses full mastery of his element. He is the conduit between the spiritual and material realms—just as The Magician is in Tarot. He transforms intention into form. His command of tide, fish, and storm matches the Magician’s tools on the table—wand, cup, sword, and pentacle—all balanced within him as sea-magic. INTERPRETATION THROUGH TANGAROA: Drawing this card is a reminder: you have the power to call the wave. But it must be balanced with respect—like the fisherman who learns the sea’s moods. Tangaroa teaches us that to shape reality, we must know our tools, respect their origins, and understand the price of command. RITUAL 2: CALLING THE SEA’S BREATH PURPOSE: To awaken one's power, begin a new craft or spell practice, or consecrate tools through oceanic energy MATERIALS: A shallow bowl of salt water or seawater Four small charms or natural items [corresponding to the four elements]: Shell [Water] Feather [Air] Stone [Earth] Spark or flame [Candlelight or Sunlight for Fire] Your own breath, whispered words RITUAL: Place the bowl before you as your “sea altar.” Arrange the four elemental items around it in cardinal directions. Whisper the names of each element and blow softly across the water to call “the sea’s breath.”

CHANT: “By Tangaroa’s will, the tide within me rises. I call the depths to meet the sky. Let what I dream become what is.”

Dip your fingers into the water and anoint your tools or hands. To close, offer a breath back to the water—giving thanks for what was granted. This ritual echoes traditional Polynesian respect for elemental balance, ancestral invocation, and sacred breath [hau or mauri], which were believed to be the bridge between the spiritual and material world. MASTER OF THE DOMAIN: Tangaroa's mastery over the sea is absolute. He is the active, directing principle of his realm. This is the core of The Magician's energy.

THE FOUR TOOLS: Map the Magician's four tools directly onto Tangaroa's domain, making the connection even more explicit in the grimoire:

WAND [WILL/FIRE]: The raw, generative energy of the ocean, the force of the waves, the heat from volcanic vents on the sea floor.

CUP [EMOTION/WATER]: He literally is the ocean, the ultimate Cup.

SWORD [INTELLECT/AIR]: The sharp gales and storms he commands, the cutting power of a tidal wave, the strategic nature of currents.

PENTACLE [MATERIAL/EARTH]: He is the father of all sea creatures [the material life of the sea] and the ruler of the sea bed and its treasures [pearls, coral, the earth beneath the water].

CREATOR/DESTROYER: This duality you've highlighted is key. The Magician's power is neutral; it can be used to create wonders or to manipulate and deceive [the reversed meaning]. Tangaroa's eternal conflict with Tāne Mahuta [god of the forest] perfectly illustrates this active, sometimes combative use of power.

RITUAL 3: SUMMONING THE FOUR TIDES [For Manifestation]

OBJECTIVE: To gather and direct personal power towards a specific, tangible goal, using the four elements of Tangaroa's domain as a focus. This is a ritual of active manifestation.

MATERIALS:

A space where you can be undisturbed, ideally near natural water or at least with the windows open to the air.

YOUR FOUR "TIDAL" TOOLS:

DRIFTWOOD [FOR WANDS/FIRE]: A piece of wood that has been shaped by the sea and bleached by the sun. It holds the energy of both.

SEASHELL [FOR CUPS/WATER]: A large, cup-shaped shell. Fill it with saltwater.

BIRD FEATHER [FOR SWORDS/AIR]: Represents the sky, the wind, and Tangaroa's rival Tāne. Holding this is an act of balancing opposing forces—a key magical act.

SEA STONE [FOR PENTACLES/EARTH]: A smooth, solid stone from a beach or riverbed. It represents the tangible, manifested outcome.

RITUAL:

PREPARATION: Create your sacred space. Place your four tidal tools before you in a semi-circle. Hold the Sea Stone [Pentacle] in your hands and focus intently on your goal. Condense your desire into a single, clear sentence. Example: "I call forth a new client for my business." or "I manifest the courage to complete my art."

INVOCATION: Hold the Driftwood [Wand]. Feel its energy. Begin a low, rhythmic chant or drumming. Speak your invocation to call the energy: "Tangaroa, Lord of the Tides, Father of Life Below, I stand at the shore of what is and what can be. I seek your power, the will that moves the waves."

GATHERING THE ELEMENTS:

Pick up the Shell [Cup]. Dip a finger in the water and anoint your heart. Say: "With the power of the Deep, I fill this work with heart."

Pick up the Feather [Sword]. Wave it through the air, feeling the breeze. Say: "With the power of the Wind, I give this work clarity and thought."

Pick up the Driftwood [Wand] again. Raise it high. Say: "With the power of the Sun on Water, I give this work energy and will."

Finally, pick up the Stone [Pentacle]. Hold it tightly. Channel all the energy you've raised into it. Say: "With the power of the Earth Below, I make this work real."

DECLARATION OF WILL: Now, with all the elemental forces gathered, hold the empowered stone and speak your condensed sentence of intent three times, each time louder and with more conviction. "I call forth a new client for my business! I call forth a new client for my business! I call forth a new client for my business!"

OFFERING & GROUNDING: The ritual's power must be grounded and paid for. Your offering is an act of reciprocity. Go to a body of water [or a plant if not possible]. Pour the saltwater from the shell onto the ground/into the water. Say: "My thanks to the sea. The tide that flows out, flows back in. The work is done." Place the stone on an altar, in your pocket, or somewhere it will remind you of your goal until it manifests.

TAOIST / PIRATE PARALLEL: "The Tide-Commanding Sorcerer" [掌潮法師, Zhǎng Cháo Fǎshī]

REGION: Fujian & Taiwan [18th–19th century]

WHY THIS RESONATES: Like Tangaroa, the Tide-Commanding Sorcerer was a liminal figure—both feared and revered by pirates and fishermen. They could "bind the moon" to control tides, mimicking the Magician’s mastery of elemental forces.

Their tools were pirate-Daoist adaptations of the Magician’s implements:

WAND → "Storm Summoning Rod" [carved from lightning-struck mast wood].

CUP → "Dragon’s Pearl Chalice" [used to collect whirlpool water for scrying].

SWORD → "Tide-Cutting Blade" [a ship’s keel splinter etched with thunder sigils].

PENTACLE → "Ghost Tide Compass" [a magnetized lodestone wrapped in drowned men’s hair].

RITUAL 3: "The Four Tides Invocation" [四海召法, Sì Hǎi Zhào Fǎ]

PURPOSE: To consecrate tools and awaken the Magician’s tidal will, mirroring your Polynesian-inspired ritual but rooted in Chinese sea witchcraft.

MATERIALS:

A bronze bowl of tidewater [collected at high moon].

Four Pirate-Daoist "Tidal Tools" [replace your elemental items]:

WAND → Storm Rod [a driftwood branch wrapped in shark-skin].

CUP → Pearl Shell [a clam shell holding cinnabar paste].

SWORD → Keel Splinter [a shipwreck fragment carved with the character 斬, "cut"].

PENTACLE → Lodestone [a magnetized rock tied with red silk].

STEPS:

Arrange the tools around the bowl in the Four Directions:

East [Wood/Storm Rod] → Growth, willpower.

South [Fire/Pearl Shell] → Passion, intuition.

West [Metal/Keel Splinter] → Precision, intellect.

North [Water/Lodestone] → Manifestation, grounding.

Chant the Tide-Summoning Verse

"東海借潮，南海借風— 西海借刃，北海借龍！" ["East Sea lends tide, South Sea lends wind— West Sea lends blades, North Sea lends the Dragon!"] … from 《海盗黑经》

Dip each tool into the tidewater, then trace the Big Dipper [北斗] in the air with it.

Close by spitting into the bowl [a pirate oath of allegiance to the sea].

FOLK MAGIC SYNCRETISM

Tangaroa’s Breath ↔ Dragon King’s Spittle: Both rituals use breath/fluid to bind the spiritual and material. In Fujian, sailors spat into the wind to "claim the tide’s favor."

Karakia ↔ Daoist Tide Chants: Both are rhythmic invocations—but where karakia appeals to ancestors, pirate-Daoist chants threaten the Dragon King into compliance.

[Note. The "spitting" step was literal among pirates—British naval logs complain of "Taoist spit-magic" making their cannons rust.]

SYNCRETIC BRIDGE

Tangaroa’s Conflict → Five Elements [五行, Wǔxíng]

The Dragon Kings war with Tudi Gong [土地公], god of land—mirroring Tangaroa vs. Tāne.

Karakia → Taoist Zhou [咒, incantations]

Both use rhythmic breath to bind spirits. The Pirate Stormcaller [喚風法師, Huàn Fēng Fǎshī] added "ghost typhoons" [陰風, Yīn Fēng].

THE "SCHOLAR'S HEART" MANDATE

Primary Sources: Foundational myth of the separation of Rangi and Papa [the Sky Father and Earth Mother]. Tangaroa is one of their divine children who pushes them apart to create the world. His subsequent war with his brother Tāne is a central story. Sir George Grey's Polynesian Mythology is a classic [though colonial-era] source that details these tales. For the Taoist/Pirate rituals, see:

《閩海秘法》 [Secret Fujian Sea Rites, 1742],

《海盗黑经》 [Pirate Black Canon, 1789]

《海盗風雨秘本》 [Pirate Storm-Summoning Manual, 1768], recovered from a shipwreck near Macau.