Hogfather - Wooden

THEN WE HAVE A CONTRACT.

The Hogfather reached into his sack and produced -a very large model castle with, as correctly interpreted, pointy blue cone roofs on turrets suitable for princesses to be locked in -a box of several hundred assorted knights and warriors -and a sword. It was four feet long and glinted along the blade.

The mother took a deep breath. 'You can't give her that!' she screamed. 'It's not safe!'

IT'S A SWORD, said the Hogfather. THEY'RE NOT MEANT TO BE SAFE.

'She's a child!' shouted Crumley.

IT'S EDUCATIONAL.

'What if she cuts herself?'

THAT WILL BE AN IMPORTANT LESSON.

Uncle Heavy whispered urgently.

REALLY? OH, WELL. IT'S NOT FOR ME TO ARGUE, I SUPPOSE.

The blade went wooden.

***

Hogfather - p116-117