This world is not mine, and neither are the friends who inhabit it. Just the flights of imagination they have inspired. The first of a series of drabbles, hope you enjoy them.

Blame

"Where is my son?!!" Paladin's voice thundered through Brandy Hall.
Saradoc looked up and sighed.
"Where has that wastrel son of yours dragged him off to now?"
The Master of Buckland ignored the undeserved insult to Merry's character and stood to face the Thain.
"I've heard rumors of the Old Forest, of riders in black. It cannot be true."
"It is true," Saradoc replied, voice low.
"You have cost me my son," Paladin hissed, face hard. "My only son."

Silence followed the slam of the door.
"Come back safe, lads, though he'll never forgive me," Saradoc whispered. "Just come back safe."