Krugger studied Pedro carefully before asking, his voice measured.
"Do all the families support keeping the country united?"
Pedro shrugged, irritation flickering across his face. "Of course not. Many believe that if this land fractures into several countries, they'll have more chances to reach the center of power. More capitals, more courts, more opportunities to monopolize resources." He spat onto the dirt road. "Blind fools. They don't understand that only large nations are treated as equals in commerce. Small states are prey."
Krugger nodded slowly. "And the fanatics won't leave trade in civilian hands anyway. Most of the wealth will flow straight into the Church—into bishops' coffers. No theocracy allows merchants to grow powerful."
Pedro snapped his fingers in agreement. "Exactly. I understand why families backed by the Church support them—they'll be rewarded. But ordinary merchants? They truly believe they'll have a chance." He scoffed. "Naïve."
