How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Kuda, said the Praise Singer, spoke as clearly as a child twice his age. Nor did he have childish fears. Kuda was brave, a little elephant whose tusks were itching for battle, like the great General himself. Kuda scowled fearsomely, as though enemies were present right in the room. (1.57)
Right away, we're told that having no fears is a good thing. It's something that Kuda is praised for because it's unusual in a kid his age, and Tendai is jealous of his younger brother's bravery. He wishes he didn't think so much.
Quote #2
Few people were allowed into the library. Perhaps, Tendai realized now, because it was one of the only places Father felt safe. It was at the very center of the house. (2.21)
We know we're supposed to think of the General as a big, tough military dude who doesn't scare easily—and we do—but then there's this description of the library, and we realize that he's afraid of stuff, too. It might be real life enemies that make him shiver, but it freaks him out all the same.
Quote #3
The children stood respectfully to one side as the visitors walked down the trail. Tendai was struck by their good manners. In Mazoe, a stranger would have been greeted with suspicion, if not fear. (14.34)
Tendai likes the idea of not automatically being afraid of strangers, though the book generally shows us good reason why we should be afraid of new people. After all, it's random people who kidnap Tendai, Rita, and Kuda.