In "Rainbow Valley" by L.M. Montgomery, Walter experiences a moment of shock after enduring a painful blow. Initially, he is overwhelmed by the sharp sensation that courses through his body, highlighting his sensitivity. This moment of distress is intense, causing him to momentarily reel from the impact.

However, as the initial shock subsides, Walter finds that the pain begins to dissipate, replaced by an unfamiliar feeling that he has never encountered before. This transition from acute pain to a sense of numbness suggests a deeper emotional or psychological shift, indicating that Walter is moving beyond his physical discomfort.