Stay in control, avoid looking weak, and get the best deal that keeps his people safe.

Show that your terms solve his real problem: safety, money, and face in front of his people.

• Offer a better split or cleaner payout.
• Name the rival crew and explain the cost of trusting them.
• Promise protection for his shop, dock, or workers.
• Give him a way to look in control when he says yes.
• Trade on a shared enemy or common threat.

• Make the case with hard numbers.
• Appeal to loyalty to his own people.
• Offer a concession without giving away the whole deal.
• Call out the rival’s lie or weakness.
• Use a proof item, letter, or witness to back up your claim.

• He folds his arms and makes the party wait.
• He laughs at weak offers and asks who else is bidding.
• He nods once when he hears a real solution.
• He bristles if anyone threatens him or his crew.
• He softens if the party shows respect for his position.