Chapter 6: Agent of Darkness
High in the tower of Orthanc, Saruman poured over some ancient scrolls and books. The dimly lit circular room stretched high above, creating a seemingly endless abyss that reached into the night sky.
"In all my years, I've never seen such power..." Saruman said to a figure obscured by deep shadow. "You have converged the many dimensions that exist in this plane into one another, then divided them into separate dimensions again, essentially creating all new worlds, each with a mix of different elements from other worlds. This is the most remarkable event in the history of sorcery."
The figure remained motionless. "You seem to understand, Saruman the White. Have I not proven myself beyond all doubt?"
Saruman looked outside a window of Orthanc, seeing a mish-mash of land and buildings from other worlds. Fangorn had completely disappeared and was replaced with a green field that was far too bright for this area. The mountains in the distance were visibly altered, some peaks being taller than they were, some shorter. Even some of Isengard was missing.
"You have proven yourself beyond comprehension, master," Saruman bowed. "I have no choice but to obey your commands."
"Very good, Saruman. Now, it is time to put my plan into action. Begin assembling the greatest army you can muster. I will rejoin you in a week's time, after I have completed some tasks in the other dimensions."
"Tasks?" Saruman asked.
"Yes, I've some matters to take care of. Firstly, I will see how the dispersion has affected the other worlds, in a manner of speaking. To be precise, I want to see who and what was sent where."
The figure moved forward and handed Saruman a spherical object.
"If you must contact me, use this. Do not let it leave your person."
Saruman understood. He pocketed the object.
"Master, do you know what world we are in currently? Do we exist in the same dimension as the ones we aim to defeat?"
"The figure turned and walked to the door.
"Yes, I made sure we are in the correct world. They are here, and surely weakened by the dispersion. In fact, all of Middle-Earth will be weakened immensely. Do not worry yourself, Saruman. Tend to your duty, as I will to mine, and you will find yourself in a position of great power."
The figure exited the door. He turned and looked directly at Saruman.
"In one week, we will march on Barad-Dur."