There was the wolf's blood, beating in his chest and bubbling in his heart. He let out another growl and looked away from Tao and down at the ground, his hands clenched into fists. He remained silent for a moment, fighting to compose himself. Even so, when he looked up at Tao, his eyes were still large and yellow. When he spoke, his words were slow and carefully chosen, "Let's negotiate, then." He said evenly, "I want tribute removed from the contract. Name what you want in return."