There was nothing that could be said to alleviate the sorrow he felt. It was something that weighed on him unlike anything he had ever felt before, but most importantly, he was wallowing in it. Letting it seep in to his very bones. A penance, maybe, for his own errors; his constant roaming in the early days of their relationship, the choice to uproot their family, losing Larus... And other things. Little things. Everything.
I can help you look after Maera,
Bazi abruptly offered. Njal had a mixed reaction, although very little of it was exposed to her. He felt an immediate defensive anger, fierce, protective, as if to ward away the very idea of Maera being taken from him; and then an easing of his mind, like it took a breath of its own and began to relax. She was only trying to help. The hurt was still so raw, though, that Njal couldn't even concoct a response.
I.. I had an accident, coming here. Swiftcurrent Creek probably thinks I'm dead, or a traitor. A half moon's turn won't make any difference.
Your leg.
Njal finally rumbled, with a brief and trailing gaze across her uneven standing. She would need time to heal physically, and he would need time to heal in every other imaginable way - but most importantly, Maera needed someone with her, someone to protect and care for her. It wouldn't be permanent. I would be very grateful if you stayed.
He looked to her now and plastered a smile upon his face, which probably only made him look worse, but he was trying. And I'm sure Maera would love to see you.