The protagonist experiences a profound sense of disquiet as he observes a woman recounting her dream without displaying any emotion, particularly tears. This absence of grief confounds him, contrasting with his understanding of women who typically express sorrow openly. His typical role as a hero, which involves confronting and overcoming chaos, leaves him unsteady in the face of her calm fear.

Her composed demeanor under emotional distress shatters his previously held notion of dignity and strength. He becomes increasingly vulnerable, feeling a sense of inadequacy as he tries to connect with her. His response, marked by youth and hesitation, reveals the depth of his internal conflict as he grapples with the complexity of her anguish.