I got the inspiration for this story from reading a few other stories in which Merry and Pippin are being held captive at Isengard. I really hope you like it. Anyway, on with the story!

Chapter 1: Painful Reunitement

It was cold and dark inside Orthanc. Pippin was in Saruman's dark, gloomy chamber, chained to the wall by shackles above his head. His feet were still touching the floor so he could at least stand normally. He and Merry had been brought to Orthanc about five days ago by a band of Saruman's Uruk-Hai.

Pippin shifted, trying to get into a more comfortable position. He whinced and jumped as he wounds came into contact with the cold stone wall. He was covered in bloody whiplashes, bruises, and deep cuts. Suddenly, the large door across the room opened and a bright, white light poured in. Pippin whinced and squinted his eyes. As the light went away, Pippin saw the tall figure of Saruman standing there. As he stepped in, the door slammed shut and the room was dimly lit again. Saruman glided across the room in long strides.

"I have tried to be patient with you, Halfling, but now, my patience is wearing thin. Now, tell me, where is the Ring?!" Saruman said.

"I'll never tell you." Pippin said.

"Oh, I think you will." Saruman said as he held out his staff.

He chanted a dark enchantment and Pippin screamed in pain. It felt as if fire was running through his veins instead of blood. Just as the pain started, it stopped, leaving Pippin breathless and gasping.

"Krashnakh!" Saruman called.

A large Orc and two huge Uruk-Hai stepped inside.

"Unchain him." Saruman ordered.

They unchained him and Pippin fell to the ground, not having the strength enough to stand.

"Bring in the other prisoner." Saruman ordered.

One of the Uruks left and returned within a few minutes with another prisoner. He threw the form onto the ground and the person groaned in pain.

"Merry!" Pippin gasped as he ran to Merry.

Before he could reach him, an Orc held him back. Saruman gestured with his head and the Orcs knew what to do. They grabbed Merry up and began beating him. They kicked and punched him many times. Pippin screamed for them to stop, but they didn't listen. One of them put its deformed fingers on the side of Merry's head and ran them down the side of his head and face, leaving deep, bloody scratches behind. Merry screamed and writhed.

"Stop! You're hurting him! Stop it!" Pippin screamed...pleaded.

One of the Orcs delivered a sharp blow to Merry's head and he fell to the ground unconscious. The Orc that was holding Pippin let him go and he fell on his knees beside Merry. He took him into his arms, tears spilling down his dirtied cheeks.

"Merry? Oh, Merry, can you hear me?" Pippin asked through tears.

Merry made no response.

"Take them to the dungeon!" Saruman ordered.