"Guess that's the only difference between upstanding folk and cold-blooded killers. Upstanding folk know the weight of a human life. Murderers and the like don't care. It's just another nonentity t'them." Jake had quite specifically chosen that word over all the others, with his nonchalant tone and expression. Heavy implication was the only way he seemed to be able to get under Gant's skin, if at all. One thing Gant was good at was a poker face. Jake was just going to have to tie him at his own game.

"Sweat and tears means a lot more to some folk than it does to others. That don't mean you should devalue it so quick by callin' it measly. You had to take the test at one point. Ain't sure you remember, it was a long time ago since you were an honest man, but they put a lot more into it than a multiple choice an' a pat on the back." He kept his gaze focused, unwavering, his face relaxed but somehow still deadly serious. "This place is dangerous, they gotta know you can defend yerself and other folks 'round here."

His gaze narrowed just a bit as he continued. "I just want you to know 'zactly what it is you're gettin' into, old timer. This ain't L.A., much as you might want it to be."