"I want to know."

"In ancient times, when the earth was young and grand, a few holy men
are reputed to have walked and spoken with God, but those days are
past."

"Our world is still young," said Joiwind. "Shaping goes among us and
converses with us. He is real and active--a friend and lover.
Shaping made us, and he loves his work."

"Have you met him?" demanded Maskull, hardly believing his ears.

"No. I have done nothing to deserve it yet. Some day I may have an
opportunity to sacrifice myself, and then I may be rewarded by
meeting and talking with Shaping."

"I have certainly come to another world. But why do you say he is
the same as Surtur?"

"Yes, he is the same. We women call him Shaping, and so do most men,
but a few name him Surtur."

Maskull bit his nail. "Have you ever heard of Crystalman?"

"That is Shaping once again. You see, he has many names--which
shows how much he occupies our minds. Crystalman is a name of
affection."

"It's odd," said Maskull. "I came here with quite different ideas