In Minas Tirith, Faramir sees a shadow rise above Mordor. ‘It reminds me of Númenor…of the great dark wave climbing over the green lands and above the hills, and coming on, darkness unescapable. I often dream of it.’
But the Shadow departs. He kisses Éowyn upon the high wall.
The horsemen ride past the three hunters without seeing them, but Aragorn calls out, ‘What news from the North, Riders of Rohan?’
The riders surround them. Éomer dismounts. ‘Who are you, and what are you doing in this land?’
‘I am called Strider…I am hunting Orcs.’
Midyear’s Day, Shire Year 1419:
Aragorn son of Arathorn—the crowned King of Gondor and sceptred King of Arnor—weds Lady Arwen Undómiel in Minas Tirith. It’s 39 years since they plighted troth in Lórien; 88 since he was born; and 2,778 years since her own birth in Rivendell.
Elladan and Elrohir ride out from Edoras into the green fields to greet their father Elrond, their sister Arwen, and the Elves riding with them — all of whom are welcomed to Edoras for two nights of rest before continuing their journey to Minas Tirith.