Get real guys. They'd as for a wage rise. Levelling up would follow unless you're a Scrooge.
"My Lord, I'm sorry to bother you, but I find myself in dire straights. I can no longer afford to send any money home to support my crippled mother and widowed sister."
"Captain, you promised to pay me my worth, but my experience in battle has outgrown my income."
"Chief, I've followed you loyally and protected your back in battle. Isn't it time you paid me enough to visit harlots free from the pox?"
"My Lord, I've tried to make you proud of my service, but find myself in debt, meeting your expectations of my station."