That explanation does help to make Howl understand better. He had no idea the shards could replace existing body parts, but that seems to be the only possibility, considering what he's just heard. He ponders the shard hovering in Emet-Selch's hand for a moment before looking back up to him with a slight nod.

"Forgive me," he says earnestly. "I did not know. I won't make light of it again."

Garlean. That must be what the old mage would call his kind, then. Howl tucks that particular topic away to ask about later — for now, he really does want to learn more about these Shards.

Smiling slightly again in an effort to lighten the mood once more, he raises his hand up beside Emet's, comparing their Shards next to each other. The slight differences in size, shape and color are fascinating. What could they mean, if anything? So curious.

"I'll give you mine, then, if you'll let me hold yours?" That would sufficiently reassure Howl as far as handing over his Shard to someone else goes.