Maskull hesitated. “Ask nothing difficult, for I hardly know my powers yet.”
“It is not hard, and I wish it. Promise this—never to raise your hand against a living creature, either to strike, pluck, or eat, without first recollecting its mother, who suffered for it.”
“Perhaps I won’t promise that,” said Maskull slowly, “but I’ll undertake something more tangible. I will never lift my hand against a living creature without first recollecting you, Joiwind.”
She turned a little pale. “Now if Panawe knew that Panawe existed, he might be jealous.”
Panawe put his hand on her gently. “You would not talk like that in Shaping’s presence,” he said.
“No. Forgive me! I’m not quite myself. Perhaps it is Maskull’s blood in my veins.... Now let us bid him adieu. Let us pray that he will do only honourable deeds, wherever he may be.”
“I’ll set Maskull on his way,” said Panawe.
“There’s no need,” replied Maskull. “The way is plain.”
“But talking shortens the road.”
Maskull turned to go.