Juilin, she asked hesitantly, what were you going to do with the salt and cooking oil? Not exactly, she added more quickly. Just a general idea. He looked at her for a moment. I do not know. But they did not, either. That is the trick of it; their minds made up worse then I ever could. I have seen a tough man break when I sent for a basket of figs and some mice.
In a moment of curiosity, a character named Juilin is questioned about his intentions regarding salt and cooking oil, though the inquiry is posed gently. The responder is cautious, seeking only to understand his plans in general terms. Juilin's reply reflects a sense of uncertainty, acknowledging that he himself is unsure about their potential uses. This exchange reveals a deeper truth about their situation: the unpredictability of human reactions and the power of suggestion in challenging circumstances.
Juilin further elaborates on this theme by recalling an experience where he witnessed a seemingly strong individual succumb to fear over something as simple as fruit and rodents. This anecdote illustrates the fragility of the human psyche, emphasizing how even the toughest individuals can be unexpectedly vulnerable. It highlights the idea that the mind can conjure fear and anxiety far more potent than any reality, underscoring a central theme of unpredictability in their world.
