With his mind set upon so many things, the weather had slipped on through the cracks; Njal had forgotten about the impending winter, and as soon as Malachi reminded him, the wind went out of his proverbial sails. The boy was right, of course. Njal couldn't leave - with or without Maera - with winter on its way. This moment served to harden his heart, though. He had made his decision and now was forced to wait, to give pause before action, which was something Njal was not very good at. Winter was no time to be traveling, especially at Maera's young age, but at the same time.. How safe was this glacier? It was harsh even without the added threat of heavy snow and limited resources.
More thoughts to add to the pile. His face set in a grimace, a very brief moment of pain and frustration, before that fell away and Njal was left staring blankly towards the trees again. But he had been dissuaded - Malachi had achieved at least that much. With a huff, the man turned and began a slow walk - but paused, long enough to glance towards the boy and mutter, Thank you. I appreciate the counsel, Malachi.
He needed to see his daughter now. He needed to go to her and be with her, even if his mind was wandering. When the spring comes, we will be leaving.
Although the ex-leader had no idea where they would go... He wouldn't let that stop him. There was a safe haven out there for his tiny family and he would find it.
As silence dwarfed the conversation, Njal turned and began hiking away.