Chapter 3: THE MUSTER OF ROHAN

Théoden leads the Riders down to Harrowdale at dusk and ascends the ancient road to the Hold of Dunharrow. Merry, weary and anxious for his scattered friends, observes the eerie Púkel-men and the ominous Dwimorberg. Éowyn greets the king and reveals that Aragorn arrived by night and departed at dawn toward the Paths of the Dead.

In council, Théoden, Éomer, Éowyn, and Merry discuss the forbidden Door under Dwimorberg. Théoden recounts the old tale of Baldor and the prophecy, concluding that perhaps the foretold time has come, though none know Aragorn’s purpose. A Gondor errand-rider, Hirgon, arrives bearing the Red Arrow, begging for all Rohan’s strength to relieve Minas Tirith against hosts from East and South.

Théoden vows aid despite losses from war with Saruman, estimating fewer than ten thousand but at least six thousand Riders, and sets the muster for the morrow. Before dawn, Mordor’s great cloud overspreads the sky, confirming war has begun. Théoden accelerates departure, orders a light ride, and releases Merry from service, bidding him remain to serve Éowyn since he cannot keep pace on Stybba.

Éowyn arms Merry at Aragorn’s prior request, foreseeing he will need gear. The host forms—about fifty-five hundreds of Riders with additional horsemen—and departs solemnly through Underharrow and Upbourn toward Edoras and beyond. At Edoras, Théoden adds latecomers and again refuses Merry’s plea to ride to battle.

A young Rider approaches Merry in secret, naming himself Dernhelm, and offers to bear him hidden under his cloak. Merry accepts, and they slip away as the king rides out. The Rohirrim press east under deepening shadow, passing the quenched beacons and hearing rumors of foes on their borders, as Éomer urges speed toward beleaguered Minas Tirith.