Most Thieves' Guild (Blacksand) members are recruited young as pickpockets and petty thieves and are let loose into the city. Tithing 10% of their "takings" to the guild. Those that are succesful, and survive, are officially recruited as full apprentices to the guild. After which they are made to swear a blood oath, binding them to the guild for the rest of their lives. After some years as an apprentice, each thief must undergo a series of gruelling tests and examinations. Succes allows the thief in question to become a full member and will be assigned to a Master Thief.