Book 5, Chapter 3 Summary

Merry rides with Théoden to Dunharrow, where the men of Rohan are mustering. With all his former companions gone, he feels like he has been left behind by everyone. Once they reach Dunharrow, Théoden, Merry, and Éowyn sit down to eat and confer on their next move. However, they are interrupted when an errand-rider from Gondor arrives, bringing Théoden the Red Arrow -- a signal that Gondor is in dire need of Rohan's help. Seeing this, Théoden's decision is made: he will lead all of his available men to Minas Tirith.

The next morning, Merry wakes to see that the sun is covered by a dark cloud coming out of Mordor. Merry quickly runs to Théoden's side, where Merry is told that he that he will ride with them to Edoras, but no further. However, Éowyn...