A polite, political meeting

"You're here for a polite, if informal, discussion about me assisting you in taking back your city." Josh said, and Shen slowly settled back down into the chair, sitting for a moment in silence as the fireplace crackled in the background before he leaned forward, pouring himself a cup of tea and speaking as he did so. "So, what exactly was it you had to offer me?"

This time, it was Josh's turn to pause and think as the peacock watched him warily through the steam rising from the cup. "...Political support. I could keep the lords of the east from intervening." He eventually answered, and Shen nodded.

"That would be... useful." The peacock began. "While I am sure that I could handle their attempts at pushing me back from my birthright, I would prefer to keep distractions to a minimum. Which would mean that your keeping the lords away would be, appreciated."

"I'll need more than just appreciation, Lord Shen." Josh countered. "I'll need both a solid promise, in writing, of what you will offer me when you retake Gongmen City, and something offered upfront to guarantee you won't change your mind."

Shen sighed softly, a ripple spreading across the surface of his tea. "Of course someone in your position would not be easily deceived... very well. Would an ongoing cut of the city's taxes be acceptable?"

Josh simply gave a short nod as he poured himself some tea, and Shen continued. "What do you think would make the ideal token of my guarantee, then?"