Aside from a short-lived card game, Fable has been asleep for years, but a trademark update suggests that Microsoft may have plans for it in the not-too-distant future. Don't get your hopes up too high, though.

The application, discovered by IGN, was filed on June 26 and is still awaiting review. As one might expect, a trademark renewal means that the company is trying to retain the trademark, but this renewal comes amidst renewed speculation of Fable, and perhaps more importantly, Microsoft has also filed an Intent to Use application.

Intent to Use trademarks may be filed for items not currently in commercial use. Microsoft does not have to do anything other than make a good faith agreement that it intends to use the Fable trademark in the future, but there is a deadline.

After six months, Microsoft must file a statement of use or seek an extension. However, to receive an extension, they must show good cause and make a sworn statement that they still have a "bona fide intent to use the trademark in commerce." Up to five extensions may be requested, and they may be deferred for a period of three years.

Fable appeared earlier in the week after a placeholder Twitter account was discovered registered to a Microsoft email; Xbox Games marketing GM Aaron Greenberg said the account had been inactive for years, but the join date March 2020, and he dismissed the rumors, stating that it was March 2020.

Microsoft has not confirmed that a "Fable"-related game will be released, but Playground Games is involved in a sequel that has been rumored for years.

We will have another confirmation in six months.