Considering Emet-Selch's words in earnest, Howl looks down and opens his fist. The Shard lays flat in his palm now, its eastward facets sparkling in the morning sunlight. It looks like little more than cut glass. To think this thing is his soul...

"This is extremely powerful magic," he says gravely. "Removing a man's limbs, organs, or even head from his body, or mixing up parts willy-nilly, all while keeping him alive or making sure he can be put back together again... dangerous and difficult magic in my world, but not impossible. But to have removed our very souls from our bodies..."

The only beings in Ingary capable of that are demons. Many wizards have given up their souls to demons for the immense power in return, even while fully knowing what it would eventually do to them. Howl is ever grateful for his fortune in meeting Calcifer, so mild and kind-hearted compared to some other demons.

Frowning, he presses his Shard against his chest and it sinks back into place. Then he aims a curious look at Emet.

"...You sound quite familiar with this topic, sir."