“If he were Joel, would he run away? Daniel wondered suddenly. Suppose his father and mother waited, with the lamps lighted and a good supper laid out? Suppose he had a sister who could run to the top of the mountain with him and be scarcely winded?” 

In one of the first instances of his internal conflict, Daniel starts to wonder if his desire and hatred for the Romans is unconditional. If the Romans hadn’t murdered his parents and if his sister were normal, then perhaps he wouldn’t be on the mountain.

“Joel’s eyes met his in a brief salute, and between the boys something flashed, a wordless exchange that was both a farewell and a beginning.” 

Daniel has never before had a person whom he could call a friend. The shared hatred for Rome and idolization of Rosh help create a bond between Daniel and Joel. Their brief salute foreshadows the further development of their bond.

“Everything he cared about and worked for was threatened by that small helpless figure.”

Daniel cares for nothing except his hatred and desire for vengeance. Ironically, Daniel sees the love he feels for the helpless Leah as a threat to his purpose when his stubborn hatred is the actual threat.