What Daud knows is that this boy ought to be a Whaler. That he has talent and nowhere else to take it. That whether or not a new recruit is necessary, he'll be a sign that Daud's still planning for the future of the gang. That everything isn't falling to pieces.

He also knows - is finding out all too well - that this boy's audacious, challenge after challenge written clearly in his voice. He appears to have no qualms against questioning the man who's offering work, the man whose name is known throughout the city, the man who could cut the boy's throat in an instant.

There's something admirable in that brazenness. (Something worrisome, as well. But Daud's gathered recruits with similar attitudes. But Oscar isn't the first to pose questions. And Daud would rather gather assassins-to-be who bear a mind of their own, who can think - but not act without need - beyond the bare instructions.)

"You assume correctly." There's a hint of a sneer, though his gaze remains unmoved. "And you're no unique case. We could use your talent, but we can also do without it.

"Your options are more limited." His voice is back to its level tone, the final statement more an observation than anything else.