His confidence was evident, but Michael remained vigilant.
"Good. Were there any losses among the livestock?" Michael asked.
The merchant brightened.
"Some of the animals did die along the way, but we had an equal number of births. The numbers have actually increased, so there's no change in value."
Michael nodded in satisfaction.
"That's excellent news. And the herders—are they here as well?"
The merchant gestured toward a group of men standing a short distance away, dressed in vests and rugged clothing.
"Yes, my lord. They are shepherds and cattle herders."
"Are they all hired by your caravan?"
"I employed them to accompany us on this journey. Do you need them for your estate?" the merchant asked, his shrewdness evident.
Michael smiled. "Indeed. While we do have some shepherds among the villagers, their numbers are insufficient for the increased livestock. We'll need more workers."