[He's just saying, the terminology doesn't exactly match up.]

I don't know about that.

[To be fair, he doesn't have any evidence one way or the other, yet, besides the semantics. But theoretically.]

I don't think I'd call a bunch of people who got dropped into my lap until they earn their way out "recruits," either.

[More like crossdimensional indentured servitude, if you tilt your head.]

Doesn't sound like they mind the free labor much. It'd be some racket if we weren't here by accident.

[They're certainly in no rush to get rid of them. And who are they to know when they've served "enough" time?]