Howl gazes at Hythlodaeus with an air of purpose. When he answers, he ignores the question about himself — this conversation ain't about him at this point.

"You should, of course, tell him when you are ready," Howl says slowly, "but the more I think on it, the more surprised I am that the two of you have not already had that talk. In those 'involuntary episodes' I mentioned, where I've got small glimpses into the past that Emet-Selch so desperately avoids talking about, I've... well. Let's say that I met've met you before this world, long before I met you you."