[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Vellichor on May 1st, 2016, 10:15 am


This is a slightly edited version of the abandoned Seduction Skill


[Skill] Seduction

1. Overview

Definition:
Seduction is the skill of deliberately enticing another person to engage in different levels of intimacy. This is not to be confused with flirting. Although flirting is most often done for simple fun, seduction is different in that it is done with a specific purpose in mind.

Though seduction is commonly thought of as a skill for prostitutes and those of similar professions, it is really a skill that can be used in a multitude of situations. Seduction can be used to get lucky at a bar or to persuade another to marry. It can also be used in more manipulative ways to fulfill the seducer's own agenda. Because seduction is much like persuasion in that it aims to make other people favor you, it can be used to get a promotion or a raise in wages.

2. Related Skills
While there aren't any prerequisites, there are multiple skills that can be learned and used in conjunction with seduction to increase its effectiveness.

[[Flirting]]: Flirting is a social activity that involves suggesting an interest for a deeper relationship with the other person. Some people flirt playfully, for amusement, while others use it as a means of seduction.

Flirting, while separate from seduction, is often a precursor. Most people will flirt when they first meet someone to judge interest, before moving on to the more serious implications of seduction.

[[Observation]]: Observation is the skill of being able to quickly notice details in your surroundings and thereby achieve a higher understanding of people, objects and environments.

Observation is a great asset in the art of seduction because it can provide valuable insight as to the reaction of the target being seduced. Noting a target's body language allows the seducer to gauge interest or discover the method of seducing they respond to the best.

[[Cosmetology]]: Cosmetology is the practice of beautifying the face, hair, and skin.

Cosmetology can be used to apply cosmetics to the seducer, to create a more desirable appearance, and thus increasing the chances of success. This may include cosmetics, hair products, perfume or cologne.

[[Socialization]]: Socialization refers to the process of inheriting and interpreting norms, customs, and ideas, providing an individual with the skills needed for interacting within their own society.

Socialization is important to seduction, because it affects how graceful the seducer is with their words. If the seducer cannot hold a conversation, it can create an awkward atmosphere and decrease the effectiveness of the seduction.
Similarly, if the one seducing is not proficient in socialization, they may accidentally offend the one they are talking to.

[[Persuasion]]: Persuasion is used to influence the mind by presenting arguments and reasons that convince the target.

Persuasions should be logical or at least seem reasonable to the target to have any effect. This can be utilized in seduction by convincing targets of the benefits of intimacy, or by providing factual arguments such as how the place and time are appropriate.

[[Rhetoric]]: Rhetoric involves using language to reach a purpose or persuade. This differs from socialization where the talking is done for the sake of talking. The talking must have a purpose to be considered rhetoric.

Rhetoric is a useful art form when one must persuade the target to accept the speaker's ideals. It may be used when manipulating language in a way that convinces the target to be intimate with the speaker.

[[Hypnotism]]: Hypnotism is a discipline of personal magic centered on the control and manipulation of others.

Hypnotism can be used to subtly encourage an aroused or interested feeling in another individual, as well as place thoughts of attraction in their minds. However, vague thoughts planted in a target's head can be ignored by an individual with will, and will raise suspicion if done in extreme measures. Attempting to cause obsession will definitely alert the target and will damage their mind even if they are able to resist. Therefore, the most effective method is to use it as a means to set the mood and hope it increases the chance of success.

3. Steps to Seduction

Conversation
Conversation is the beginning to most interaction, and therefore it is also the beginning to most attempts at seduction. This is an introductory phase where both the seducer and the target can get familiar with each other. Body language and witty dialogue plays a large part in engaging the target.

Flirting
The conversational step can be skipped for those who are skilled, already familiar with the other person, or simply bold. These brave souls will move directly into flirting. Flirting consists of usually subtle hints or euphemisms indicating one's desire for the other. Flirting may manifest as suggestive gestures or expressions, verbal flirting, physical proximity, or playful body contact.

Intimacies
By the time one reaches the stage of intimacy, most will take their activity to a more private spot. Although sexual intercourse is typically the main goal of seduction, it is not always. If intimacies stop before reaching that point, it is not necessarily considered a failure. Sometimes, intimacies can be a type of seduction themselves, rather than an endgame, as they may leave the partner craving more for the next meeting. Furthermore, the seducer's goal may be of a sexual nature. A seducer may accomplish other things by manipulating the target to favor them and let their guard down.

4. Techniques/Methods

Body Language
Body language is often overlooked in seduction, though it is an essential component. Body language can convey interest or disinterest, intrigue or boredom, and whether or not to move forward onto the next steps. If one does not notice the body language of another, they are setting themselves up for failure. Therefore, observation is a key skill for those utilising this technique.

For example, one who is sitting with their arms crossed, head down, or is leaning away from the seduced is most likely taking a defensive stance. This could mean that they are not interested, or that the method of approach is too strong or forward. On the contrary, one who is leaning towards the seducer, is looking directly at the eyes, lips, or body, or is sitting in a relaxed manner may be comfortable with the situation, and encourages further advances.

This technique can be used to the seducer's advantage since the reversal also holds true. If the seducer can convince someone to lean in, when they do so, they have a higher chance of becoming interested. In this way, the target can be manipulated into being attentive and receptive to the act of seduction.

Physical Contact
Physical closeness can be one of the most influencing features in seduction. Body contact creates a bond between people and is a good way of suggesting a more intimate relationship.

A good area to initiate touching would be the upper arm and back. It makes the encounter personal without being an extreme invasion of privacy. Hands are very sensitive to the touch and can establish a strong bond between subjects while not being overtly sexual. Touches to the lower back, upper leg, or face are more sexual in nature. These send signals of sexual intent to the target and a successful touch will generate similar interest in return.

While not strictly contact, physical proximity such as sitting closely, or the act of leaning in toward the target to converse can have similar effects.

The seducer must take great care to be observant and flexible in their technique of physical contact. They must be able to read the body language of their target and be able to discern their level of comfort. Failure to recognize signs of discomfort in their target can cause seducers to lose their interest completely.

Confidence
If one can take charge and exude confidence, this is an attractive trait to many. It will increase one's desirability and boost the success rate of seduction.

The seducer should take care to use this technique in moderation, as more independent and dominant targets will reject anyone who tries to force control over them.

Cosmetics/Appearance
Improving one's appearance through cosmetics and other beautifications is a common and effective way of assisting any attempts at seduction. This makes the seducer seem more appealing visually, as well as to some other senses such as smell. Unlike the other methods of seduction, this can cause the seducer to attract others without initiating.

There are two downsides to using cosmetics. The first is that makeup is only temporary. When one moves on to intimacies, it is not uncommon for makeup to rub off or be removed entirely. While more experienced cosmetologists can prevent this, the average user is likely to experience accidental makeup removal. This will allow the partner or partners to see what the seducer truly looks like. If they are not already committed, this may be a downfall for the seducer.

The second downside is that beautifying oneself may attract unwanted attention. If a seducer is wearing revealing clothing, or has a particularly eye-catching appearance, they may, in turn, become targets for others attempting to seduce someone.

Gifts and Favors
Good for the shy and crafty, gifts and favors are one of the simplest ways to show affection. It is a slow process, to do favors over a long span of time, or to create and gift a present to someone, but it can be rewarding.

Doing these services for someone increases your reputation in their mind, and opens them up to you. This allows the shy to bypass the initial "conversation" step, and that decreases the chances of making a mistake.

Benefits
If the target sees potential gain in accepting the advances of the seducer, they will be more likely to be won over. Some attractive traits or combinations may be status, fame, wealth, or power.

Alcohol
Alcohol is incredibly useful for a quick and easy seduction, so long as it is only one time. Alcohol, and other substances such as certain types of drugs, can decrease the inhibition of the target, meaning that the seducer does not have to work as hard to achieve their goal. This makes it a good technique for beginners, and an easy technique to combine with other methods and increase their effectiveness.

Alcohol and like substances will not always be effective for long term goals, however. If one is trying to seduce someone so greatly that they fall in love and want to become married, alcohol cannot be constantly relied upon. However, once the initial intimacy has been established, both the target and the seducer are familiar enough that future advances may be more welcome.

Other Skills as Seduction Techniques
Many other skills can be used as seduction techniques, and these can be very effective if they are tailored to the object of affection. They can be personalized and are often unique, which creates the impression of commitment and adoration. Some skills that can be used as seduction techniques include dancing, singing, painting, writing, or even acting, but almost any skill can be applied.


5. Learning and Improving Seduction

Trial and Error
The easiest and most natural method of learning seduction, is the age-old practice of trial and error. It allows the learner to test out which techniques of seduction work best for them, and gets the learner practice in socialization that they could not get otherwise.

Though some practitioners of trial and error may be intimidated by the competition and ashamed at their failure, those who continue on despite their failures usually become some of the best seducers.

Observation
The second-most common technique, learning by observation is a fairly dependable way to learn the seduction skill. It shows the learner what they should and should not say to succeed, how they should portray and hold themselves, and the techniques they need to use to get what they want.

Observation of seduction is typically used by beginners, and for those too shy or insecure to use trial and error, but is useful for a wide range of skill levels and personalities. Experts may learn much watching a master at work. Likewise, a bold and outgoing individual may benefit from taking a step back to realize his mistakes through others.

Teaching
Perhaps the rarest and least effective way to learn seduction, there are those who attempt to learn by being taught- either through a class, master, or book. Because this method frequently lacks proper experience in socialization, it can lead to awkward encounters, which may stunt the seduction process or collapse it altogether.

It can be useful for those who are book-savvy, and enjoy learning through description of the process rather than employment. However effective it may be for some, there are multiple risks to copying someone's technique. There must exist a level of trust in the teacher and their skill, as well as the ability of the student to apply what they have learned.


6. Skill Progression
Novice (1-25):
Novices in the art of seduction are little better than those who are unskilled. They may have a grasp on good conversation and flirtations, but are unskilled when it comes to the intimacies. Many in this skill level falter when it comes to confidence. While it is not impossible to seduce someone at this point in one's pursuit of the art, most require outside assistance from things such as alcohol or other substances that lower the inhibition of others. While lacking overall technique, these individuals find others more attracted to them than if they had no seductive ability at all.

Competent (26-50):
Competent seduction is a highly sought after skill, as those who possess it are quite adept at seduction. They have a knack for engaging in witty conversation and experience much less difficulty reaching the stage of intimacies than the novice. While they still employ things like alcohol in their art, these individuals know how to move, dress and act to loosen up their targets with some amount of grace. Those of the competent level find others more naturally drawn to them, as their skill becomes habit, thus making it easier to begin the seduction process.

Expert (51-75):
Experts in seduction are those who can persuade most anyone they wish to become intimate. They have mastered their method of seduction, and the ability to start, maintain and/or drive conversation to become seductive comes easily to them. These individuals seem to know exactly what to say, how to move, what to wear and how to touch one, so as to take their seduction to the final stage without much difficulty. These are the individuals who give off a seemingly intoxicating aura that draws others to them. They take less time to seduce, and have a high success rate.

Master (76-100):
Masters of seduction can entrap another with but a toss of their head, a flash of their smile or a wave of their hand. They have learned to adopt the correct appearance, movement, and attitude to succeed. They find that seduction becomes instinctive and with little more than a look, they can have the target grovelling at their feet. The master has multiple methods of seduction at their disposal, and it is rare that they find an individual who can resist them.
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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Shimoje on May 8th, 2016, 1:59 am

Experts in seduction are those who can persuade most anyone they wish to become intimate
Following the skills which are related I believe that persuasion and rhetoric (perhaps listing how they specifically differ from each other as to not be confused with?) could contribute to the overall seduction of an individual, also although hypnotism is a skill that could be related I feel that the overall introduction of emotion through the magic could be evaded with those smart enough to elude said hypnotics. Furthermore for such a level of hypnotism I would think that the person would have to be willing.

This should be expanded upon as to not give the wrong ideas of using hypnotism to a point where it could be considered godmoding.

Perhaps some examples between male seduction and female seduction would overall wrap it up to be more complete. I would really like to see differences between the two, but it may not be needed.

Overall- a very good article and I look forward to see how it grows!
Shortly after departure of the Tipsy Wench, a deeply held secret started to show itself as Shimoje's mental stability started to become more clear. His hand will bear the mark of Lykata and glow with a symbol of Lormar.

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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Vellichor on May 8th, 2016, 6:21 am

Thanks for the review.

How persuasion and rhetoric differ
Limits of hypnotism
Difference between male and female seduction

I don't quite understand what you mean by male and female seduction.
Bold vs subtle? Difference in bodily attraction? Different attire?
But wouldn't that be very limiting?
Each character has very different ways of approaching so I probably won't add that unless someone comes up with a really convincing example.
Then again things like attire are basic enough.
Some suggestions would be helpful!
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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Shimoje on May 8th, 2016, 6:50 pm

Techniques of seduction would likely be different. A male might utilize alcohol to seduce or perhaps overwhelming resolve and characteristics closely related to "swooning."

Whereas a female would use her charm, status, or even body to seduce a male.

However - seduction across races is something might be fairly different from just the casual interactions. There is also the point of trying to seduce one of the same gender.

Overall- seduction doesn't always require flirting and persuasion to be successful. There are mysterious factors of simply trying to gain appeal to an individual utilizing other techniques. The status of an individual character might appeal to those in a less fortunate state for example. I just feel some things need expanded upon is all.

I was a bit confused at the mention of prostitutes being the main use of seduction. It is very hard to discern between flirting and seduction I guess. Might I see a few lore related sentences that could discern between the two? I might be able to help out a bit more after that, I guess.
Shortly after departure of the Tipsy Wench, a deeply held secret started to show itself as Shimoje's mental stability started to become more clear. His hand will bear the mark of Lykata and glow with a symbol of Lormar.

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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Dove Brown on May 8th, 2016, 7:07 pm

That's awfully pigeonholing, Shimoje. I think it'd work better to just list the techniques neutrally and let the player decide which ones their character would use.
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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Savacea Jovellana on May 9th, 2016, 2:31 am

I think as far as different techniques based upon gender, is a little limiting. I say this because there is a vast difference in many of the PCs here on Mizahar. Techniques would be based more on personality I think, rather than gender. I find that the way Tarot left Magic a little vague (although extremely detailed) he made it that way so the users could use their imagination when it came to finding their own unique styles. With that said, techniques would vary depending on race and personality. There will be those who are bold, those who are shy, then there will be those who are manipulative in their personalities and thus showing through when they go to seduce another. :)

I find this write up to be very detailed and informative. I will be bookmarking it to use as a reference, as it made points that I have overlooked while seducing with my PC. She uses seduction in her job to seduce another, then poison that individual. I never realized how important body language actually was until now. Thank you Vell for such an amazing write up and putting Seduction in a better perspective! :thumbsup:
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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Vellichor on May 9th, 2016, 7:04 am

I would love to take all this credit, Savacea, but 98% of the work was done by the previous writer, Revali.
You're welcome anyway.

I won't add gender based tactics as many people seem to agree with me that it's too limiting.
I do like the idea about using status as a desireable trait so I'll look into implementing that.
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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Caela Dorin on May 9th, 2016, 8:23 pm

As someone with a PC who uses seduction often enough, I was very interested to read this. From what I can tell, many of the things that Caela uses are here as well as other things that I've seen employed. I would agree that gender-specific examples are not a good idea. After all, there are women who can employ more "masculine" methods and men can employ more "feminine" methods.

While flirting can employ touching, I think it's important to note that touch can be used far less casually/subtly than it would be when used in flirting. It might be important to note that somewhere. It's a bit tame to be included in intimacies but if you can write enough about it (perhaps with some examples) then it could go under techniques.

I know that you have socialization as a related skill but what about rhetoric? There is a difference between the two and rhetoric often has a clear purpose as well.

Other than that, I think it's an exceptionally written article and the grammar seems sound.
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[Peer Review] Seduction [Skill]

Postby Vellichor on May 12th, 2016, 11:14 pm

Ok, I edited according to everyone's suggestion.

- Clarified the limitations of hypnotism
- Added persuasion to related skills
- Added rhetoric to RS
- Differentiated rhetoric, socialization, persuasion
- Further differentiated flirting and seduction
- Added technique section "body contact"
- Added section "benefits" for influence of status, wealth etc

I tried my best to make sure the related skills and such were clearly defined so there would be less confusion. Still, if you think they could be improved, I'd appreciate it if you provided specific examples. I don't think I can do much better on my own.

If there's anything else, or if I forgot something, I'll gladly see to it. If not, I'll look to putting it in founder's review.
Thank you for your time!
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