Most people wouldn't be willing to admit that, you know. [ He gives her a sidelong half-smile before looking forward again as they walk. ] But I think it's true for most people, too, whether they'd admit it or not.

[ It's certainly true for Howl. The loss of billions is easily understood in concept, but virtually all of those people are equally as conceptual. ]

Yima doesn't drive much of a bargain for people like us, does she? If she were willing to save, say, ten souls from home, maybe there'd be something to consider... but who would want to choose between their loved ones?