"Flares." He repeats it somewhat blankly, both due to his current condition and because the answer doesn't really mean anything to him. But the rest of what Prior says gives him enough to get the gist of it, and his gaze flickers toward the door as he contemplates the option.

"The wolves are still an obstacle, as is the cold." And Prior's health, though James doesn't say that, wanting to spare the other man's pride a little if possible. Besides, he's sparing his own as well, by not mentioning that he's not entirely sure he'd be able to walk very far anyway.

But although James is fine with the idea of spending the night here on the floor of this church, he's well aware Prior may not be, and although he thinks it would be a bad idea for him to go out, he is also a grown man who can make his own decisions. If he truly thinks he can make it and would prefer not to stay here, James is not going to be the reason he doesn't. "But you needn't be keeping watch over me." He's been far worse than this, and will be able to return to town after a little rest.