He seems awfully offended at the comment for what it is, Howl thinks to himself. Howl is also assuming that the "thing" on his forehead is as new to him as the Shard on Howl's chest is to Howl. The young Wizard tips his head curiously, wondering what that was about, but seeing as how quickly Emet-Selch moves on, he chalks it up to the old man's usual crankiness.

"...What do you mean?" Howl says slowly. Considering the rumors say these are their souls, he's not sure he wants to hand his over to someone else. Emet is no longer a stranger at this point, and it's not like Howl suspects him of having ill intent, but... what could he possibly do with Howl's shard that he couldn't do with his own? If they're going to have something akin to a working relationship, it's important for him not to acquiesce to a demand like that so easily. He might be curious about Emet as a powerful mage, but he won't let that curiosity turn him into a pushover.

"Take yours out first," Howl continues. "It is that thing on your forehead, isn't it? Are you afraid?"