Cassimir frowned at the question. It was going to be one of those days. He was asked that frequently and he supposed it was a difficult position even by their standards. If class was a measure of wealth then he was merely a mercenary, but if it was by influence he could be more perhaps. At least kings and dukes would listen if he had something to say. He supposed he could go with that.

"Think of me as an artisan, though I am here for more than trading some woven tapestry. I am here by the order of a duke. He had no one to send here before, and now . . ." He motioned to himself briefly, "here I am." He glanced over to gauge the bodyguard's appraisal of him. He was probably fairing ill under her watch. "I am merely here to compete, nothing more."