I just wanted to update what happened. I calmed down and found a lawyer -- a wonderful, experienced, COMPETENT no-nonsense lawyer. She was very straighforward about what had to happen. She cost a pretty penny but I figured it was worth it for peace of mind and for having competent representation.

It turns out that everything that he was telling me was ********.. All the things that his agents were telling him were "normal" were just things to get him to make outrageous demands so I can give in so they could get their cut. I fell for it for a previous contract where I overpaid him. Now I find out that what was considered "normal" was not "normal" at all. My instincts were right.

I even told this lawyer that I all I wanted was to be fair, not to be ripped off and to offer something fair and she still said that that the stuff that I felt uncomfortable was not kosher.

So she is doing the negotiating. She knows the agency and she will protect my interests. I am relieved and happy that I stood up for myself AND LUCKY that I found such a competent and experienced lawyer.

Thank you all for your words of encouragement and support. It made a difference.