His ear twitched at this, hearing the accusation and allowing his brow to furrow once again. Njal even felt tempted to step along the path towards her, but he stopped himself before getting too close. She was no fool, what made her think so lowly of herself? Further comments only made the Russian further confused. He had known plenty of strong, capable women. From his old leader's wife, Skydancer, to the territorial and bestial woman, Siku of Tartok; they had met briefly, but in this moment Njal was able to reflect upon his past encounters. And then there was the indomitable Proudheart, who made his own heart heavy like stone. Something he needed to ignore - so he sought the golden woman as a distraction, and burst forth with his own verbose response.
"I have known many women, and you are no different. You are strong. Capable. Only a little slow." The man's shoulder rolled in a small shrug at this, not wanting to insult but not afraid to voice his concern over her burdensome movement upon the plains. However, if she wasn't interested in learning, he would not cajole her. "I see a strong warrior in you. Training is needed, of course, training is always needed. But I offer." A small nod of his head, and Njal fell silent. His voice fell away amongst the stones and he began to plot a course along the path. He was careful with his steps, regardless of how safe and secure the ridge may have been - keeping his eyes upon the woman while he moved by her, and then a bit beyond. When he turned again to regard her, it was to offer one last suggestion.
"If you change your mind, come to the river pack and ask for Njal."
He blinked, and then turned as if to leave, but waited in place for any response from the mountain woman.