"I simply cannot believe I was roped into this," Sophie grumbled. Howl guffawed.

"This party is for you," Howl stated as if it wasn't already obvious, "I simply cannot have you not interested." Sophie pursed her lips as she walked to the marketplace, arms linked with Howl.

"Why do you need my help?" Sophie asked, keeping casual. She was genuinely curious, but Sophie also knew the answer: Howl's extravagance needed limitations, else he would spiral out of control, and Sophie was not able to deal with the repercussions just yet.

"Because you've got a flair for decoration," Howl said simply.