Eye In The Sky

Chapter Three

It was quickly realized that Salem needed a change of clothes. The fancy clothing was certainly appealing to the eye but was far too noticeable and noble-like. His height was also a big problem as being taller than any ogre was certainly concerning.

 "That's an easy fix," Salem grinned, and he appeared to shrink although his clothes still fit perfectly. He touched his ears gently, rubbing his pointer finger over the very tip. "One thing I cannot change sadly"

"Why not?" I inquired. It appeared to be a pretty simple task after he got rid of his horns and tail. 

"No idea," He shrugged, lowering his hand, brushing his hair over them, "It's a way of identifying other gods, I suppose. Pointier than a human's yet smaller than an elf's."

"People don't pay much attention, you'll be fine," I assured him, proceeding to walk on the path, "Just say you're half-elf."

"And people will believe that?"

 "It's not uncommon." I looked up at the sky where the moon was perfectly in the middle of the sky, "I suggest we hurry back though, my sister will worry."

With Salem by my side, the walk felt quicker and less creepy. His presence was somehow comforting despite barely knowing him. He felt like an old friend, someone I had known my whole life. I pondered whether this was the work of his natural powers or simply coincidence. 

"This is the place?"

I looked to my right, staring at the tavern door, "Yeah..." I hadn't even noticed we were already here.

I walked in with Salem right behind. Irene was behind the bar, washing glasses with a wet cloth. She scrubbed them with such vigor that it was obvious how displeased she was with my tardiness.

She looked up, locking eyes with Salem, "Who is this?"

Salem smirked, stepping forward with a slight bow, "You must know me, I'm quite famous in this town."

"Are you a councilman, if so, you have no place here." She set the glass down with a loud thud. I was surprised it didn't crack under pressure."

Well, I'm not human so you're wrong on that guess. Try again!" Salem was having too much fun with this. I swear, if his tail were still here, it's be wagging delightfully."

"Stop joking around, who the hell are you?" Irene glared, a gust of wind blowing around her, " and what are you doing in my bar?"

I sighed, finally stepping in, "His name is Salem."

Irene frowned, looking Salem up and down, "Your mother named you after our god? A little arrogant, don't you think?"

"Not when it's true."

Irene pales, "You're kidding... There's no way."

"Fret not, dear Irene. You're not being punished," He smirked, placing his hand on my shoulder, "Your brother was the first person to visit me in so long and I struck up a deal with him!"

Irene turned to me with an exasperated expression, "You made a deal with a god?"

I rubbed my arm, "He said he would help with the famine."

"We have a pact and everything!" Salem chimed in, not helping my case at all.

"You made a pact with him too?"

"He needs my help and a pact was the best way to ensure that it would be completed in the end." I explained simply, "I don't see what's so wrong with it."

"Why does a literal god need your help?" She turned to Salem with a frown, "Aren't you all-seeing or whatever?"

"Usually yes." Salem pouted, producing a cloud of vapor that was completely black, "However, it appears that your wonderous king is delving into some pretty dark magic and its been clouding my vision quite a bit of time."