Auspices [aus·pi·ces] n.pl. 1. With the protection or support of someone or something, especially an organization: "Financial aid is being provided under the auspices of NATO."
Assiduous [as·sid·u·ous] adj. 1. Constant in application or attention; diligent: "An assiduous worker who strove for perfection." 2. Unceasing; persistent: "Assiduous cancer research."
Guile [guile] n. 1. Treacherous cunning; skillful deceit. Particular skill and cleverness in tricking or deceiving people.
Mercurial [mer·cu·ri·al] adj. 1. Quick and changeable in temperament; volatile: "A mercurial temperament."
Obtuse [ob·tuse] adj. 1. Lacking quickness of perception or intellect. 2. Characterized by a lack of intelligence or sensitivity: "An obtuse remark." 3. Not distinctly felt: "An obtuse pain."
Intrepid [in·trep·id] adj. 1. Resolutely courageous; fearless. Persistent in the pursuit of something. "A team of intrepid explorers."
Homogeneous [ho·mo·ge·ne·ous] adj. 1. Uniform in structure or composition. 2. Of the same or similar nature or kind: "The corporation maintains tight-knit, homogeneous board members."
Acrimonious [ac·ri·mo·ni·ous] adj. 1. Bitter and sharp in language or tone; rancorous: "An acrimonious debate between the two candidates."