I love fluid power dynamics.
Imagine a sickly little lordling, cared for by the same doctor since he was young. Isolated and lonely, he becomes desperately dependent on his physician for kindness, for companionship, for touch. The way he leans into the man, so sheltered and naive. The way he gasps and blushes under the professional, exploring hands. So shy. So powerless to this older man with his life in his hands.
And the doctor would never act on it. He's too responsible for that. Dedicated. He took an oath. "No more of that," he says, curtly, when his young patient whimpers beneath his examination. There is no argument. He is not one to be disobeyed.
Until, one day, the little lord, frustrated and desperate, finally remembers who he is. The power he wields.
All it takes is one reminder. One well placed threat. One little hint about the things he could do. Have done.
And suddenly, his doctor, always so stern and commanding... is obedient as a puppy. "Yes, my lord," and "as you wish, my lord," as he falls to his knees.
Almost like he wanted it all along.
I love nebulous power dynamics!