Book 5, Chapter 5 Summary

The story returns to the day before the armies of Mordor attack Minas Tirith. Merry continues to ride with the Rohirrim though the leader of Dernhelm's éored, Elfhelm, pretends not to notice him.

While the men of Rohan are travelling through the Woods approaching the Pelennor, Théoden meets with Ghân-buri-Ghân, the Chief of the Wild Men of the Wood. The Chief tells Théoden that the Wild Men -- or Woses -- hate orcs too, and they will be happy to guide the Rohirrim along an unguarded, secret road to Minas Tirith. The Rohirrim accept the offer and, in exchange, Théoden promises him that the men of Rohan and Gondor will leave the woods to the Wild Men.

The Rohirrim travel through the Forest led by the Chief of the Woses. Then, as they near the end...