In Paragraph Five, as Rolf arrives and sees Azucena and situation, why would he need protection ‘from how own emotions’?

Rolf needed protection from his own emotions because he did not want to break down and fall apart in front of Azucena. He was trying to be calm, trying to keep her calm.... he was trying to save her life and keep his wits about him. He knew if there was any chance to save her, he would need to have himself in check.