The Sunspire snake eater

"You were younger than me?" Veteran asked incredulously. Was he already behind in his career? 

"I have my mercenary trade," he recalled out loud, partially as a boast and partially to reassure himself that he was, in fact, on track. Although he had his trade, it still felt like Ensio was doing better than him in every sense. Ensio was more serious and mature, and he was more productive when he hunted and scouted. Veteran didn't want to give up on playing and aimless exploration and other kid things, but he wondered if that would be necessary in order to regain the competitive edge.. not to mention Issorartuyok's favor.