Turnoi is spot on here Luke.

If they have already acquired your rp that is the real pickle. If they don't want to give you a release letter you may run into problems. As he said, nothing is really predictable.

You mentioned working in HK, but unless you got a higher managers salary, HK is not a cheap place at all, you won't get what your rmb will get you in China, for example.

Don't be afraid to midnight/twilight runs, if all reasonable negotiations fail, don't be afraid to vote with your feet. It is a native english speakers market, after all, and many more schools WILL hire you!

Regards
SM