Fable (on hiatsu)

7. How Disaster is Brewed

"I sincerely hope this isn't another one of your pranks, Mr. Free." the principal told us (mostly Toby, though).

I think this situation is already pretty clear, but I'll add some background. This was the day after Grandma had been over for supper and we were at school. In the Principal's office. I know that isn't a really nice way to start the day, but what can you expect from my friends?

Anyways, his office was a large, airy room flooded in light. There were a bunch of knickknacks on shelves against one wall, a printer against the other and a large collection of school 'cheer' photographs. Then, near the far wall was his big heavy wood desk. And in front of that desk were three chairs. Toby was sitting in the center, on the edge of his seat with an absolutely joyful grin that didn't go well with our situation. On his left perched Jo, who was also on the edge of his seat, but rather than eagerness his face expressed a deep desire to flee. Then there was me. I slouched on Toby's left. I was staring at the ceiling blankly.

You know those mornings that no matter what anyone does, you're just out of it?

Yeah, this was one of them.

Toby had started the morning by announcing that we were going to formally create our club. So we headed to the secretary's office. She was pretty flustered (knowing our... um 'history') and called for the director to set things straight. We were then ushered into His office.

Now, you've gotta know, Principal Clay is actually a really nice guy. He's friends with my dad and always used to play cards with me when I was in grade school. We were friends. Well, for all I know, we still are. My dad and him grew apart slowly so I only see him once every few months at my house now.

Either way, he trusted me.

"I swear this isn't for a large-scale prank," Toby said religiously. Mr. Clay stared at my friend for a while. Nervously, Toby continued "Or any small prank too."

Clay sighed, sinking into his plush, leather chair. The kind that's on wheels that you spin and spin and spin around on before getting really dizzy. He passed a dejected hand over his face then suddenly looked at me.

"Do you believe him, Mr. Cataclysm?" I wriggled in my seat. And yes, that is my name. Craft Cataclysm. Sounds fun doesn't it?

"I- um... Well..." I felt unsure whether I would help my friends (and probably have my Secret Revealed) or lose their trust forever. Then the choice was made clear. "I don't know for sure if he will uphold his, erm, oath," Toby's face fell "But if you catch him doing a single prank in the upcoming month, then we will disband the club. Is that okay?"

They all gave me an odd look. Then Clay smiled.

"That's a great idea!"