Chapter 240: Worth The Wait?
We spent about twenty more minutes with the chief. They treated us with their traditional meals and delicacies.
I especially liked Khool milk, its taste was one of a kind, slightly bitter, but a great taste.
Then, we bid farewell to the chief, as a messenger arrived saying the Khools were ready and waiting for us at the gate. Thankfully, the chief didn’t insist on our staying that much. Instead, he gave us four large containers filled with fresh Khool milk.
"For the people of the Eclipse Keep," he explained, his expression growing serious. "I heard about what happened there recently. That was why were were happy to see you too."
I raised an eyebrow, surprised. "You know what happened?"
The chief nodded grimly. "After I recovered, I sent a few people after you to deliver proper rewards to you and your companions for helping our clan. But the blizzard had already surrounded the mountains by then, and my men had to return empty-handed." His withered face showed genuine concern. "They reported the unusualness of the blizzard and distress lights in the keep’s direction. But since you are here, it must mean the blizzard had ended."
"Yes, the Keep survived the ordeal," I assured him. "Though it wasn’t without a cost. Many got injured, and that’s why I had to visit the city."
"I’m glad to hear that." The chief placed his heavy hand on my shoulder. "The Eclipse Keep has stood as a guardian of these mountains and valleys for generations. Their people have been close friends with us." He then gestured the milk containers. "This is not much, but Khool milk has restorative properties. It will help those who suffered in the incident."
"They’ll be grateful for your kindness," I replied, genuinely touched by the gesture. "Thel, Keth’mar!"
The chief smiled and, after a few pats, retracted his hand. "It’s the least I can do, benefactor. Now go, and may the winds carry you safely to your destination."
"Thank you, and till we meet again."
We bid our farewells and made our way back through the village toward the gate. I had already stored the milk in the inventory. And while walking, I asked the accompanying guard to tell us about the village.