Mmright. So he'll start with general questions, quickly shifting to practical and down to earth kind of approach so as to not alienate her. About what are the demands placed on them, what they get in return, what they need. He will offer the information exchange if he meets resistance on a specific topic, or if she becomes hostile about any of those.

(Sorry, the merchants being sour on Alem is a bit broad to give more specific direction off the bat...)