Teng Ma's words, the baited hook hidden beneath a veneer of goodwill, did not escape Jin's keen perception.
This was a dance of Chinese etiquette, an interplay of subtlety and hidden intentions. Unlike the straightforwardness of the Western approach, this was a delicate dance of words designed to disorient and disarm.
Jin, holding the upper hand, possessed the power to dismantle any hidden schemes. Meanwhile, the weaker party sought to manipulate and maneuver, attempting to weaken Jin's resolve or divert his attention, all while gradually establishing a binding obligation.
In this intricate dance, Jin found himself perplexed by the motivation behind Teng Ma's seemingly generous offer.
The puzzle pieces didn't quite fit together – Teng Ma had already lost his men and now appeared to be relinquishing his leverage.
Your gift is the motivation for my creation. Give me more motivation!