[ She's far from a disappointment — Howl finds himself more intrigued by her than ever. There are some very quaint villages in Wales, but he can't say he's ever been to one quite like what she's describing. ]

And you said your name is Gray? [ She's so young. Or at least, she looks young. Far too young to be away from home, fighting in some strange cosmic war. Just like that, the thought begins to rustle Howl's big brother instincts. ] How long have you been in this world, Miss Gray? Have they treated you well?