Often, the easiest way to get someone’s cooperation is by giving him exactly what he wants. The art of Negotiation deals with determining exactly how much of what a subject wants must be surrendered in order to get a particular good or service in return. A master negotiator might need to make only the most minimal of sacrifices in exchange for a vital service, while a novice could be forced to dramatically overpay— particularly if he lets his desperation show. This skill is essential for anyone who regularly acquires new equipment, and it is vital to characters who must mediate between warring parties.