“Seduction isn’t making someone do what they don’t want to do; seduction is enticing someone into doing what they secretly want to do already.” – Benjamin T. Russell

Scorpio (October 23-November 22) season is upon us, and few will disagree with me when I say this is the sign that you either love, hate or love to hate!

Either way, we’ve all fallen—or will at some point—prey to the wrath of a Scorpio. This is harsh, hard language to describe this sign, but dammit if it isn’t accurate. Those born under the sign, unless interrupted by a more awkward sign in their astrological chart, are the kings and queens of seduction. Loving a Scorpio doesn’t have to be complicated, but like everything in love, it will certainly take some work.

A house or governing body rules each astrological sign and Scorpio is no exception. Ruled by the House of Sex, this sign tends to focus more on the art of seduction than the act itself. When dating or pursuing a Scorpio, you can never go wrong with the below tips.

Realize that it will NOT be simple.

Scorpios are one of the most challenging—if not thee most challenging—signs of the zodiac. Why? Because they are guarded, mysterious creatures, and for someone who prefers a more open and straightforward partner, that can be a different kind of torture. If a Scorpio has caught your attention, be patient. Understand that while they may have a tough exterior, it exists because they are extremely vulnerable once they let someone in.

Remain mysterious, but not secretive…

In many ways, the Scorpio man or woman is a walking contradiction. They want you to divulge your entire life’s story to them, but they will only disclose information on a “need to know” basis. This contributes to their often sneaky appeal, and while Scorpios do have an aura of slyness, it isn’t without reason. Scorpios pride themselves on figuring people out, especially those who they wish to romantically entertain. If you give them too much too soon, they’ll lose interest. In order to lock a Scorpio down, you have to keep them intrigued. While I will never condone lying or game playing, I will say that a little unavailability never hurt nobody. Just be sure not to stay gone for too long. They’ll chop your absence up to disinterest or worse, deceit.

Allow yourself to be the “victim.”

Rarely does a Scorpio not know what they want to do with you. Before you are even aware of their presence, they’ve often already made up their minds of what role you’ll play in their lives, if any. They are the ultimate seducers so naturally, they plan, execute and conquer. To snag a Scorpio, make sure that you grant them control of the situation, at least in the beginning. Those born under this sign tend to have serious trust issues, hence the mysteriousness and cunning appeal. But once you’re in there, you’re in there and it will be hard for them to let you go.

“Stimulate” them.

Scorpios are ruled by the House of Sex and Seduction, and while deep, meaningful surrender through sex is usually a huge part of a Scorpio’s extra-curricular activities, this is a sign that thrives on intelligent conversation and mental stimulation. Sure, they can lay in bed and have sex with you all day, but at some point they’re going to want to discuss your hopes, dreams and plans for the future. That’s IF you’re not just a booty call. They thrive on regeneration so if you are set in your ways and not very interested in evolving, this may not be the sign for you.

Be willing to be part of a “team.”

Listen. Scorpios always have a “team” persay; that is unless you’ve been on their radar for awhile. Until you are exclusive, you’re going to have to get comfortable with sharing. They will not restrict you from dating others as you figure out how far you’d like to go with them either. If you’re looking for a more exclusive dating arrangement upfront, date a Cancer or a Virgo. They are slightly less apt to playing the field.

Locking down a Scorpio is not for the faint of heart. They are not predictable, and just when you think you have them figured out, they will switch up on you. Unless you’re interested in an emotional commitment, deeper connections and an almost transformational experience beyond the sheets, you might want to say “peace” to this sign.

Shantell E. Jamison is a digital editor for EBONY.com and JETMAG.com. Her book, “Drive Yourself in the Right Direction” is available on Amazon. Follow her on Facebook, Twitter @Shantell_em and Instagram @Shantell_em.