Morry finally made up his mind.
"Respected Lord Roman, I do not want any rewards, please allow me to make a request."
"I wish to gain your friendship."
This request prompted Roman to reassess Morry.
"Why would you choose me?"
The status of merchants was relatively high, on par with that of lawyers, judges, senior blacksmiths, veteran carpenters, and other such professionals.
A key characteristic of this stratum was the lack of self-protection.
Only governors from Free City-states and members of the Commercial Guild could engage in dialogue with the Nobles as equals.
Nobles couldn't even afford armies, let alone the merchant class.
Mercenaries were unreliable, so the Conquest Knights under the nobles' banners became the preferred option for merchants.
Thus, merchants would seek the friendship of certain Nobles, looking for support and protection.
