Helpless to Aid Someone You Love

The hypothetical game depicted on the left is set in ancient days. You play the warrior. Your true love has been captured by aliens! She's a thousand miles away you don't know where but you can see her image in the magical waters. And you're unable to help her, at least for now. To be able to see someone you care about who's in grave danger, but not be able to help, is emotionally complex.

Consider a related example, illustrated on the following two pages.

This is an emotionally complex scene because the trees watch on, unable to help the forest nymphs, whom they love.

But another technique is used here that also makes the moment emotionally complex: