The word “blench” is used to evoke a swift physical or emotional recoil in literature—a sudden act of drawing back when challenged, whether by danger or moral dilemma. In some works, it signals a pivotal moment of hesitation where a leader’s slight retreat can determine the course of fate [1], while in others it underscores unyielding resolve, as when characters refuse to show fear or wavering commitment even under severe pressure [2, 3]. At times, the term connotes not only the physical act of recoiling but also a deeper, even if momentary, faltering in spirit—a gesture that may reveal inner vulnerability or defiance [4, 5]. Thus, “blench” enriches narrative tension by blending both the literal and figurative, highlighting the complex interplay between fear and steadfastness.