18. The Spoiling of Isengard
[Saruman is in the Chamber of the Palantír at Isengard. His hand is suspended
over the Stone, and a fiery light is in its depths. The eye of Sauron appears
within the Palantir. Saruman, eyes closed, appears to be communicating with
Sauron by pure thought.]
Saruman: "The power of Isengard is at your command, Sauron, Lord of the
Earth."
Sauron: "Build me an army worthy of Mordor!"
[Saruman is sitting on a chair in one of his chambers, his arms wound about
him. He looks haunted. Three puny Orcs file into the room.]
First Orc: "What orders from Mordor my Lord? What does the Eye command?"
Saruman: "We have work to do."
[Huge trees are being felled, their creaks and groans like cries of pain as
they are brought crashing down by Orcs.]
[On the pinnacle of Orthanc, Gandalf, dishevelled and scarred, wakes. He
slowly pushes himself up and moves to the edge and peers down at the activity
surrounding the tower.]
Orcs: "The trees are strong, my Lord. Their roots go deep."
Saruman: "Rip them all down!"
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