Cooper Russell Presents

A Fan Fiction Based On 'Fable:'

Prophecy

Chapter 2: Leaving Home

Despite the lack of sleep Arlet had, he still felt rather refreshed. The dream he had still lingered in the back of his mind. He lay in his bed listening to the sounds of a fresh Saturday morning. The noises of sticks banging together, and laughter bellowed from outside and the gentle vocals of a group of chickens could be heard as they waddling about. Today Arlet and Terry would be leaving Bowerstone to go attend the Heroes Guild in hopes to become part of the great tales that folk liked to share. Well, there were more reasons behind it, but that was definitely a perk the two of them discussed on a regular basis; they always liked the idea of it.

For their final day, they would gather their things and make their rounds in the village, saying goodbye to dear friends. Arlet did not know how long he would be gone without coming back to Bowerstone, but he did not like the thought. He remembered a fellow would come into town from time to time and gather up a few of the locals and show them tours of the Guild. Arlet's mother would never let him go, she feared what went on in there; said it would change his heart for the worse. But deep down she knew that wouldn't stop him, and he would eventually make his mark there.

'Arlet! Hey Arlet! You awake?' that was the voice of the ever so chipper, Terry.

Arlet bounced out of bed and looked out through the window to see Terry standing, looking up at him with his hand blocking the sun from his eyes. 'I'll be right down!' Arlet yelled back.

He put on some clothes, which weren't anything special; a lot of the same things that everybody else wore. A lot of tan, and browns could be found in his wardrobe. He ran his hand through his messy dark hair and let out a deep breathe. He was ready to face the day that he had been waiting for, for many years. He had a small bag tied to the thick strap of his belt. Inside he kept a few sentiments, like a necklace that belonged to Tegan, and the journal his father gave him and a few coins in case he needed to buy anything. Hestrapped his sword over his shoulder, that had been slid snuggly in its sheathe which also belonged to his father. Though he did not own a bow to call his own, he hoped he would be given one at the Guild.

Once downstairs, a cold tension could be felt in the room. It was a tad awkward as his family of 3 were all just standing by the door, looking at him as Arlet made his way down the steps. He stood in front of his family, as they all waited for someone to speak.

'...well, I guess this is it.' Arlet said softly. He looked at each of them in the eye, but no response was given. 'Look everyone, I do not know how long I shall be without your faces, and I should hope that my last memory of them would not be of sadness.'

Tethilia broke from the line and ran toward Arlet giving him a hug as her quiet voice squeaked out, 'I don't want you to go!'

'I will return, I promise. Don't you worry 'ilia.' Arlet tightened his grip on her, andbent down onto hisknees as they hugged. He pulled her back to look her good in the eye, 'and when I'm back, maybe you'll be old and tall enough that I can teach you a few things, okay?'

She nodded, and swallowed her emotions back to stop herself from crying. Arlet looked up at his mother, to see a single tear form in her eye and roll off her face. Trying to lighten the mood, Arlet said, 'You will all come to see me and Terry off wont you?'

'Of course,' Arlet's mother said. 'We'll all be at the gate waiting for you when you've finished your goodbyes...'

'Good, and bring what's left over of the tarts. I fancy I should have but one more before I leave.' Arlet said with a kind smile. This also brought a smile to his mother's face.

'Go Chris! Go prepare the tarts for your brother.' she commanded

'Ah, mom do I have to? Why can 'ilia do it?' Christopher replied.

'Christopher, you'll do it this instant! And put a few in a sac for Terry as well!'

Christopher dragged his feet off as if it was the end of the world that he had this task, as Arlet looked back at Tethilia saying, 'don't you let him boss you around while I'm gone.'

'I won't,' she said with a grin that could make even the angriest man melt inside.

A yell from outside could be heard, 'C'mon Arlet, what's the hold up? We've got people to see before we leave!'

'Okay, I must go. I will see you all at the gate at 2:00.' Arlet explained as he stood up and walked for the door. His mother was hesitant to move away from the door, but with a soft look from Arlet, she stood to the side. 'Don't forget the tarts,' Arlet said again opening the door. And with that he left stepping outside.

Today seemed much more crisp, the air cleaner, and the birds happier, and Terry more anxious.

'Where's Keller at?' Arlet asked.

'I think he's a bit saddened by the whole thing, he won't even come out,' explained Terry. 'Maybe a tad bitter too. I tried to get him to come with us as we said goodbye but he seemed a bit angry too.'

'Really? Angry?'

'I understand though, he feels left out.' Terry said as he dodged a man carrying a large box. 'They oughta' be more careful! They'll run somebody over one of these days.' The man heard this and just muttered to himself.

Laughing, Arlet said, 'I think I should go visit Keller. I must see my good friend before I leave.'

'We can do that right after I say my goodbye to Alexia,' Terry said with pleasure. 'You think if I make it emotional enough she'll give me a farewell kiss?'

'Why don't you just tell her how you feel? How about that?'

'Are you kidding, Arlet? She would probably laugh in my face.'

Arlet shook his head with a grin on his face. 'Well good luck in any case. But I have someone I want to see while you're off doing that. Come to the docks when you're done.' Arlet said. He looked around for Tegan but there was no sign of her yet, she must have been sleeping still he thought.

Birds crowing could always be heard in this part of Bowerstone, along with the crash of the waves against the sides of anchored boats. It was very calming. Arlet had made his way to the docks, where he would visit an old friend who always seemed to be here whenever he needed somebody to talk to. Even if all they talked about was his daughter, and how Arlet's current look wasn't up to her standards. Arlet soon approached the man, giving a friendly wave hello.

'Good 'ay to ya' boy,' the man said as he stood from his usual bench.

'Hello Mr. Bartley and how are you on this fine day?' Arlet asked cheerfully.

'As good as any man can be.' Mr. Bartley said. He had a certain gruff to his voice; it made everything he voiced seem inspired, or important. 'I hear you're leaving me already?'

Arlet laughed, 'I'm going to be training at the Heroes Guild!'

'Oh, my lad! Good for you. You've wanted to go now for years.' He signaled for Arlet to join him and sit down on the bench. They did, and nothing more was said for a few moments. 'You know Arlet, your father would be proud of you; he started with emotion. Edward Bartley used to work with Arlet's father many years ago, helping people around town with chores. 'He always talked about getting you in that damn Guild; he said you would grow up to be a legend.'

'I'm sure he was just proud, like all fathers.'

'Well, he seemed to think he saw something in you, but maybe you're right. But either way my boy, you do your best ya' here? I don't think we've ever had anybody from Bowerstone ever leave to do much of any good. You'll be representing us all'

'I will do my best.' Arlet said with confidence as he looked around up at the great blue sky filled with fluffy white clouds, the sun still beating down strong.

Just then Terry came running around the corner and into the docks, yelling something that neither Arlet nor Mr. Bartley could make out. 'What is this racket? Is that Terry Crowbucket?' Edward Bartley said with a hint of shame.

'Arlet! She kissed me! She really did!' Terry was still yelling in a loud voice even though he was just a few steps away now.

'Yes, it is, and it seems he's quite happy,' Arlet told Edward.

'Oh, good mornin' to ya' Mr. Bartley, Terry said.

'What has gotten you so riled up? Who kissed what?' Bartley seemed confused.

'Nothing, Terry's just excited about us leaving.' Arlet said changing the subject.

'You're going too?' Bartley asked.

'Why yes sir! You don't think I could let poor Arlet do this alone do you? Plus he'll need somebody to compete with at the Guild.'

'Well good riddance to you,' Bartley said. 'At least the village will be rid of your noisy nonsense!' he added.

'And I will miss you too Edward,' Terry said as he dipped the rim of his flat-top hat. 'I'll especially miss your fables.'

Bartley grumbled at the remark. Arlet put his hand on Bartley's shoulder, giving him a quick wink, 'Yes, I will definitely miss your, fables.' Arlet said with truth.

And with that Arlet and Terry made there way back into the center of Bowerstone.

'I don't know why you poke fun at old Edwards and his stories.' Arlet exclaimed.

'Oh c'mon Arlet, evil fairies? Giant beasts with razor-sharp fangs? Dragons? You can't possibly believe-

Before Terry could finish thesentence he stumbled into the path of a guard, causing Terry to drop his bow which he'd been carrying, along with other things he was planning on bringing to the Guild.

'And what do we have here? A bow?' the guard said, picking it up.

'Hey, gimme that back!' Terry snapped.

'And your friend, please tell me that isn't a sword? You two know better than to be carrying weapons inside the city. How did you even get these in here?'

'That's none of your business, give me back my bow!' Terry said again, in a pushy manner.

The guard stood firm, starring down Terry. Taking control of the matter, Arlet said, 'please excuse my friend; he's just a little excited. We're off to the Heroes Guild today-

'You don't need to excuse me to a guard!' Terry butted in.

The guard took offense, and he grabbed a hold of Terry's collar, pulling him in close. Arlet stepped back as the guard began, 'listen to me...boy. You have the mouth of a fool and I would sooner knock your teeth out before being insulted by a pesky little-

'Let him go, Boris.' a commanding voice boomed from behind the guard. Boris turned to reveal the Mayor of Bowerstone.

'I'm sorry my lady, they had weapons.' Boris said as he unclenched his gauntlet from Terry's collar.

'It's okay; they are permitted to have those here. They will be leaving soon,' Lady Grey explained in a soft voice. Arlet and Terry looked at each other with confusion and also amazement, for Lady Grey didn't make her appearance amidst the town very often. Arlet always resented her for that. 'Now run along Boris, I'll handle them from here,' she added.

Boris bowed his head slightly, then turned and let out a 'humph' at Terry and then walked away.

Lady Grey then turned her gaze from Boris to the two boys. Neither of them spoke, they seemed to be a little startled. Everyone around them had stopped what they were doing, but with a quick glance from Lady Grey, they all snapped back to their duties. She then motioned her finger for Arlet and Terry to step closer to her.

'Now boys, it has been brought to my attention that you both plan on attending the Heroes Guild,' she said with interest. 'Is this true?'

'Yes, my name is Arlet and this is Terry.'

'And what makes you think you are prepared for such a task?' she questioned.

'We have been training for years and we think we are ready.' Arlet replied.

Butting in, 'really we have! Day and night!' Terry said.

'Well that is wonderful news isn't it? It is rare we see bravery in such youth to come out of Bowerstone.' This made Arlet stand tall with his chin up, he nodded. 'Won't you two join me for a quick brunch before you go? I ought to get to know the real side of you two before you go off and become famous!' she laughed.

They weren't about to turn down an offer from the Mayor, so they chuckled at her attempt of a joke even though the sarcastic toneoffended Terry.

'So? How about it?' she asked again.

Before Arlet or Terry knew it, they were sitting down in the main dining room of Mayor Lady Grey. The conversation was small between the three of them, Terry and Arlet were nervous, and Lady Grey really didn't know how to sustain a conversation of any length. They would talk back and forth in between sipping a lovely chicken stew. Already they had eaten freshly baked buns, with butter melted on them, as well as two whole trays of tiny little crackers that had a type of fish spread on them. Neither Arlet nor Terry knew what it was, but they enjoyed it. Not to mention the chicken soup and they hadn't even been served their main course yet. Terry had been starring at a peculiar looking flower which was set in a vase that seemed worth more than his whole being.

Terry cleared his throat to yell to the end of the giant table they were all sitting at. You really had to yell, it was that big. 'That's a strange flower you have!'

'Sorry?' she replied.

'That rose! It's all black... are you sure it's necessarily the best choice for a centerpiece?'

'Oh good heavens yes,' she laughed. 'Why that is a gift from the great hero, I dare not throw it away.'

This perked Arlet's interest, 'really? He really gave that to you?'

'Yes, you should not doubt me so. He even went out of his way to retrieve my precious necklace.' Around her neck hung a sparkly necklace, they didn't think much at first as she pointed at it, but they guessed a lot of girls would have understood the significance more than they would.

'When was this?' Arlet asked, taking his last spoonful of chicken soup.

'Well it was about a week ago... didn't you see him?'

Terry piped in, 'me and Arlet here have been practicing almost 24/7 as of late out in the picnic area. We must have been busy with that.' A look of great disappointment befell Arlet's face.

'Oh well, what a sight it was! He's getting quite the name for himself you know. He looks a lot stronger than the first time I saw him. Apparently he had just been involved in some sort of arena...?' She looked at them as if it was something they should know about.

'Arena?' Arlet asked while a servant of Lady Grey's walked to each of them plopping down a huge chunk of meat. It had spices all over it, and smelled absolutely amazing. Arlet hadn't seen anything that looked this good his whole life.

'Yes, he mentioned something about an arena. To be honest I wasn't really paying attention, it's so hard to listen to the words of somebody who looks as fair as him.'

'Oh... yeah.' Arlet replied as he cut a piece of his meat, or at least tried to. He had never really used a knife and fork before. Usually just ate with his hands. Lady Grey found this amusing.

'This meat is really good, do you mind if I ask what it is?' Terryinquired as he shoved a large piece of it in his mouth.

'To tell you the truth I'm not all too certain, but it is one of my favorites.' She paused. 'I always have my cook's make it for me whenever I have guests though, but I don't bother getting involved in their business, I'm no cook. I just eat the food' she laughed again.

Arlet didn't like her laugh; it always seemed so fake, or ignorant. But considering she was the Mayor, he played nice and would laugh whenever she did just to humor her. Right after the cackling of Lady Grey ended, two loud chimes echoed through the room, Terry almost choked on his food.

'What was that?' Terry asked.

'Don't worry Mr. Crowbucket, it is just my clock.' Lady Grey looked at him as an unusual look fell upon her face. 'You have heard a clock before haven't you?'

Bruising his ego, he tried to recover, 'I've heard of them yes, but never actually this... close up before...' Terry stuttered.

'Wait, two chimes... does that mean it's 2:00 already?' Arlet asked.

'Why yes it does, thanks for pointing that out Arlet, Lady Grey said pleased as she snapped her fingers. 'Time for my famous punch! You'll love it. It's a mixture of Albion's finest berries.'

'Oh... no I meant... well me and Terry have to get going actually.' Arlet said nervously.

'But I want to try some of this punch!' Terry pleaded.

'Good heaven's yes, you have to try it.' Lady Grey starred at Arlet, 'you will try some before you leave won't you?'

'Quickly, we have to be on our way. People will be waiting for us soon.' Arlet explained.

With full bellies, Arlet and Terry bid a farewell to Lady Grey, and despite her shady behavior they were thankful for the meal. They found their way amongst familiar faces at the town gate, and this was it. Arlet had dreamt of this day for far too long and it was all finally happening. They were amidst a small crowd, and some of them were even cheering them on, it felt nice to Arlet. Terry was enjoying it even more, egging on for cheers and parading around like a big-shot. Even some of the girls they had grown up who never gave them the light of day had stopped what they were doing to see them off. But there was only one Arlet was thinking about, and almost at that instant he saw Tegan weaving in between the small crowd as she made her way toward him.

'I was worried you wouldn't show, I thought you would sleep through the whole thing' Arlet said, hugging her.

'Sleep through this? This is about the most rowdy I've ever seen this town, and to think it's all about you.' She smiled.

Ruining their moment, Arlet got a tap on the shoulder and saw his brother Christopher standing beside him, holding two bags of tarts. 'Here ya' go, I have you know mother made me bake a brand new batch just for you two.'

'Thanks Chris,' Arlet said taking the bags, handing one to Terry who was still enjoying the excitement of the moment.

'And you know Arlet, Chris began. 'I know this is a little backwards, me being your big brother and all. But I look up to you for what you're doing. I hope you do something great'

This was the first time Arlet had heard such kind words from his brother; he gave him a departing hug. He watched him walk back to Tethilia who was glued to their mother's side. Then something caught his eye, standing further back under the shade of a vegetable stand, stood Keller.

'I'll be right back,' Arlet said to Tegan with a concerned look on his face. He couldn't believe amongst all the excitement of the day that he had forgotten all about Keller.Terry didn't even notice as he was too busy flirting with the girls who despite there interest in the situation, still had no interest in Terry himself.

Arlet parted his way through the crowd, and walked up to Keller whose face seemed blank and his eyes red and moist as if he was crying earlier. Starting nervously, Arlet said, 'Keller, I know this is-

'You don't know anything Arlet!' he said. 'Why must you leave me here, all alone?'

Arlet knew this talk would not go his way, but patiently he heard what Keller at to say. 'We three have been friends since I can remember. What am I to do without you both at my side?'

'The Heroes Guild is a walk away Kel, you can visit when you want. And Terry and I will be back before you know it.'

'No... I'm sure they've all said that. That place...the Heroes Guild trains warriors... warriors that are never seen again except through the words of town folk. Why do you think everyone is making such a big deal for your leaving, we all fear we will never see you both again.' Keller started to grow frustrated, and teary eyed. 'What am I to do Arlet? What am I to do... ?'

'Come with us Keller...' suggested Arlet.

'Nonsense...'

'They can train you, you can learn from the best!' Arlet tried to raise his friend's spirit. Then as if telling a fairy-tale he continued. 'Think of it, us three warriors; legends even! Traveling all over Albion, fighting to rid this land of any evil-

'Stop, Arlet! ...stop. You know this is foolish talk. You know I am not a fighter, it's a lost cause and you know it!'

'There is no need for anger and remorse,' Arlet pleaded. 'This is a good opportunity for both Terry and me. Please take satisfaction in this.'

'Take satisfaction in my two best friends leaving? You must be mad,' he said, clenching the side of the vegetable stand.

'This is not of madness! I've worked hard for this day and this is not how I had imagined it would be.'

Keller was speechless, he didn't seem like he was really listening to what Arlet was saying. He just kept looking around, as if searching for words. 'I just don't know why you are doing this, aren't you happy here in Bowerstone?'

'Of course I am, Bowerstone is a lovely town. All my memories are of this place.'

'Then why leave? Why now? Keller pleaded.

'There is a world out there I haven't seen, waiting for me. And I want to be there if evil should ever strike, so that another child will ever have to grow up like I did.' He paused. 'Without a father. You must understand they're more reason behind my leaving then what appears on the surface.'

'But are these reasons of good? You are leaving friends and family behind... what, in the name of vengeance?' Keller returned.

'You are a good friend of mine Keller, and always will be. But I can't help but think this is a waste of time convincing you that my reasons are of good nature. If you cannot see this I have nothing more to say to you.' Arlet said sternly. 'I am sorry my friend, my mind has been made.'

'I am sorry too Arlet. I never rightfully prepared myself for this day as I should have.' he said calmly. 'I will leave you to your... fame.' he snapped and stormed off just as Terry decided to run up and join the conversation.

'Keller! Farewell' he yelled. Keller continued walking off, not looking back or acknowledging his friends parting words. Terry's face fell with curiosity and dis. 'What was that about? Is he still angry? He didn't even turn back.'

'I had feared this would happen...' Terry continued.

'Come friend, let us go. For this is a day of celebration.' Arlet said with vigor, turning to Terry.

Once again Arlet found himself in the arms of Tegan, they whispered to each other as Terry waited behind them at the gate eating a tart.

'I thought I would be sad today,' Tegan said. 'But I am so proud of you, I am happy and I will be happy in whatever you accomplish.'

'I will come back for you, and when I do I vow to make us one. You have my word on that.' Arlet said as he brushed the hair from her face, and tucked it neatly behind her ear. With one last long hug, and goodbyes for all, Terry and Arlet left their home of Bowerstone.

With the city gate now closed behind them, they had now nothing left to do but begin whatever lay before them at the Heroes Guild. Terry and Arlet exchanged enthused talk on how the world felt so open to them now that they had left, and what they thought the Guild would be like. Once they reached Lookout Point however, there excited banter stopped when they heard a commotion of sorts, which drew there attention forwards. They saw a wounded animal just down the road which headed to Greatwood.

'Look, Arlet... what is it?' Terry asked with great intrigue.

Both of them walked down the path where trees towered on both sides; closer to the dark lump which was laying in a small pool of bloodied leaves.

'It's a dog...' Arlet said quietly to himself.

Terry ran over and kneeled beside the wounded animal, to reveal a large axe sized slice had been dug into its side. Terry gently rubbed its fur, 'it's still a live...' he said horrified.

'Not with a wound that big it's not,' Arlet replied in disbelief.

'It must have occurred recently.' Terry noted. 'But who would do such a thing?'

Arlet took notice at this tender side of Terry, a side of his that he has only seen once before, at the death of Terry's first dog. Arlet knew that this find must have been bringing back old memories; so he stood quietly.

Starring into the dogs eyes Terry asked quietly, as if to mask what he was saying because the dog would understand his words, 'Do you think there's any chance we can save it?' Terry then looked to Arlet for an answer, only for Arlet to notice Terry's face change from one of sadness, to one of horror. 'Behind you!' Terry screamed. What followed is nothing but a hazy memory, as Arlet felt something strike his head from behind, and everything turned to darkness.