Promises and Consequences

The book repeatedly explores the importance of keeping one's word, as seen in Lucilla's pact with the windfairies, where breaking her promise would lead to severe punishment, and in the potter's tale, where a magical cup's spell depends on a single draught.

Lucilla promises the windfairies to keep their secret, and the story explores the consequences of that promise and its eventual fulfillment.

Nanina promises her master to care for the flock and avoid the palace, but her disobedience results in the loss of all her sheep and lasting physical pain.

The compact between the ploughman and the gnome drives the plot, with each broken promise bringing severe repercussions.