A Guild of Wizard Pupils?

[Inziladun]

I've wondered if Saruman had 'lab assistants' that he taught some basic explosives techniques to. Not magic per se, but things that would have been viewed as magic by the Rohirrim etc.

This is because the 'blasting fires of Orthanc' were used at Helm's Deep when Saruman was absent.

I'm hoping they were all called Igor and given to saying 'yeth marthter'

Beorn seems to use his 'magic' as a natural ability, not learned in any way.

I've always believed the "Devilry of Saruman" used at Helm's Deep was indeed an explosive unknown to the Rohirrim or the Company of the Ring (save perhaps Gandalf). Gunpowder, maybe?

As for Beorn, I'm sure you're right, though he is apparently one of those "intentional enigmas" The Professor was seemingly so fond of.