"And they will bear the consequences and the scars of that stupidity," he remarked softly. He had seen a few new hunters like that, graduating out from under their mentor and getting themselves maimed or killed on the first few missions. It was common, and yet another reason Jack didn't attach himself to anyone. Not caring meant no need to be hurt by the losses.

He knew how to dodge Guild scrutiny. He had done it before, and he would do so again. And really, for one as rare as Gabriel, he had already convinced himself it was worth the risk. This was a creature with whom he wanted to be able to have contact with, even fleeting here and there.

His fingers slowly stroked along Gabriel's arm and shoulder, letting himself lean a little in return towards the gorgon. Those coils of body prevented him from getting real close and personal, but this was enough. This was more than either of them clearly were used to.

"Well... considering how many snakes come and visit me these days, I expect I know what to look for," he said with a faint smile. "Any special requests for supplies from town?"