Meanwhile

February 25, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Parth Galen, under Amon Hen: The Company passes the Argonath and lands at Parth Galen; Frodo must choose between Minas Tirith and Mordor by morning. II.9 The Great River
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Parth Galen, under Amon Hen: Aragorn steers the boats between the Argonath and camps the Company at Parth Galen beneath Amon Hen. II.9 The Great River
• Merry & Pippin Parth Galen, under Amon Hen: Merry and Pippin camp with the Company at Parth Galen. II.9 The Great River
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Fords of Isen: First Battle of the Fords of Isen: Théodred, the King's son, is slain holding the fords; Grimbold and Elfhelm keep the crossing. App. B; App. A; UT The Battles of the Fords of Isen
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Osgiliath / Minas Tirith: Denethor rules in Minas Tirith; Faramir commands the Rangers and the Osgiliath front on Anduin. IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Fords of Isen: Saruman's forces attack the Fords of Isen; Théodred is killed, the stroke Saruman aimed at the King's heir. App. A; UT The Battles of the Fords of Isen

The sky: Afternoon on Nen Hithoel: 'the sun, already long fallen from the noon, was shining in a windy sky', the lake pale between steep grey hills; a thin waxing crescent follows the sun down soon after dusk (II.9).

February 26, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam eastern Emyn Muil: Frodo flees Boromir, sees the Eye from Amon Hen, and crosses Anduin with Sam; they enter the eastern Emyn Muil. II.10 The Breaking of the Fellowship
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Parth Galen, under Amon Hen: Boromir falls defending the hobbits; Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli send his boat over Rauros and at evening set out after the Orcs. III.1 The Departure of Boromir
• Merry & Pippin western Emyn Muil, carried by the Orcs: Uruk-hai of Isengard seize Merry and Pippin and carry them at a run westward over the Emyn Muil through the night. III.3 The Uruk-hai
• Gandalf the White unstated 'high place' (Fangorn region?): From 'a high place' Gandalf strives with the Dark Tower as Frodo sits on Amon Hen; where he sat is not stated. III.5 The White Rider
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Eastfold (Aldburg); Théoden at Edoras: Éomer, in the Eastfold, hears that an Orc-band has come down from the Emyn Muil; Théoden sits at Edoras under Wormtongue's counsel. App. B; III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: Boromir's horn is heard blowing dim on the northern marches; Denethor will reckon it thirteen days before Gandalf's coming. App. B; V.1 Minas Tirith
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Parth Galen, under Amon Hen: Saruman's Uruk-hai with Orcs of Mordor and Moria attack at Parth Galen; the Eye, stirred by the Ring on Amon Hen, searches westward. II.10 The Breaking of the Fellowship

Meanwhile: Boromir's horn, blown at Parth Galen, is heard in Minas Tirith (App. B; V.1); as Frodo wears the Ring on Amon Hen, Gandalf strives with the Dark Tower from afar (III.5).

The sky: A clear night over Amon Hen and the shore: 'the waxing moon was riding in the West, and the shadows of the rocks were black' as the Three Hunters set out, while ahead the Orcs run on with the hobbits under 'the last rays of the sickle moon' (III.2; III.3).

February 27, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam eastern Emyn Muil: Frodo and Sam wander the barren ridges of the eastern Emyn Muil seeking a way down; Gollum trails them. IV.1 The Taming of Sméagol
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli the Wold: At sunrise Aragorn reaches the west-cliff; below it the Three Hunters find Pippin's brooch and run all day across the Wold. App. B; III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• Merry & Pippin the Wold: Pippin drops his elven brooch as the Orcs come down onto the plain; the hobbits are driven at a run across the Wold. III.3 The Uruk-hai
• Gandalf the White Fangorn Forest: Gandalf sees Treebeard striding among the trees; neither speaks ('four days ago', counted back from 1 Mar). III.5 The White Rider
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Eastfold: Against Théoden's orders Éomer rides out of the Eastfold about midnight with his éored to hunt the Orcs. App. B; III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman the Wold: Uglúk's Uruks, Grishnákh's Mordor Orcs and the Northerners quarrel over the prisoners but run on toward Isengard. III.3 The Uruk-hai

The sky: The chase's first sunrise, from the west-cliff: 'the chill wind of dawn', then 'the red rim of the sun rose over the shoulders of the dark land' on green Rohan, white mists in the watervales and the White Mountains 'flushed with the rose of morning'. By evening the moon is shrouded, and it 'sets early and is yet young and pale' (III.2).

February 28, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam eastern Emyn Muil: Still on the ridges of the eastern Emyn Muil, working south toward a descent. IV.1 The Taming of Sméagol
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli the Wold: Second day of the pursuit across the Wold; at nightfall the Three Hunters halt, still far behind the Orcs. III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• Merry & Pippin eaves of Fangorn: At nightfall the Orcs reach the eaves of Fangorn; Éomer's Riders ring them with watch-fires. In the dark Grishnákh drags the hobbits out. III.3 The Uruk-hai
• Gandalf the White Fangorn Forest: Gandalf remains in Fangorn Forest. III.5 The White Rider
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim eaves of Fangorn: Éomer's éored overtakes the Orcs just outside Fangorn and surrounds them at nightfall. App. B; III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman eaves of Fangorn: Grishnákh, seeking the Ring, creeps out of the Orc-ring with the hobbits and is killed by a Rider's spear. III.3 The Uruk-hai

The sky: 'All its long hours of cloud and fitful sun' over the Emnet; at dusk 'the young moon was glimmering in a misty sky, but it gave small light, and the stars were veiled' - the same misted moon the hobbits watch from the ringed Orc-camp under Fangorn's eaves (III.2; III.3).

February 29, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam foot of the eastern Emyn Muil: In a storm Frodo and Sam climb down the cliff by the elven rope; that night they catch Gollum, who swears by the Precious. App. B; IV.1 The Taming of Sméagol
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli East Emnet: Third day of running; the Three Hunters cross the East Emnet toward the Entwash and rest at night. III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• Merry & Pippin Wellinghall: Escaping at dawn as the Rohirrim attack, the hobbits enter Fangorn, meet Treebeard, and sleep at Wellinghall. App. B; III.3 The Uruk-hai; III.4 Treebeard
• Gandalf the White Fangorn Forest: Gandalf in Fangorn. III.5 The White Rider
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim eaves of Fangorn: At sunrise the Rohirrim destroy the Orc-band and burn the carcases; Éomer turns for Edoras. App. B; III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• Treebeard & the Ents Wellinghall: Treebeard finds Merry and Pippin on his hill, carries them to Wellinghall, and hears of Saruman's treachery. III.4 Treebeard
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Osgiliath: By night at Osgiliath Faramir sees Boromir's funeral boat float by, the cloven horn in his lap. App. B; IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman eaves of Fangorn: Saruman's Uruk-hai are wiped out under Fangorn's eaves; no Orc returns to Isengard. III.2 The Riders of Rohan

Meanwhile: Boromir's funeral boat, sent over Rauros on 26 Feb, passes Osgiliath by night; Faramir watches it go by (III.1; IV.5).

The sky: A storm over the Emyn Muil, lifting at evening: 'the deep blue sky of evening opened once more, and a few pallid stars appeared, like small white holes in the canopy above the crescent moon'. Westward the day ends clear and hard on the downs - 'the wind is north from the snows' - and the night grows ever colder (IV.1; III.2).

February 30, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam gully below the eastern Emyn Muil: Gollum leads them by night down the gully toward the Marshes; they hide by day. IV.2 The Passage of the Marshes
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli eaves of Fangorn: Éomer's éored meets the Three Hunters on the plain; given horses, they reach the Orc-pyre at Fangorn's eaves by nightfall. An old man appears; the horses bolt. App. B; III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• Merry & Pippin Derndingle: Entmoot begins; Bregalad (Quickbeam) takes the hobbits to his house while the Ents debate. App. B; III.4 Treebeard
• Gandalf the White Fangorn Forest: Gandalf in Fangorn. III.5 The White Rider
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim East Emnet: Riding home, Éomer meets Aragorn, lends him horses against the King's law, and continues to Edoras. App. B; III.2 The Riders of Rohan
• Treebeard & the Ents Derndingle: Entmoot begins in Derndingle; the Ents debate Saruman. App. B; III.4 Treebeard
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: Faramir returns to Minas Tirith before his errand of 1 Mar. App. B
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman eaves of Fangorn: An old man appears at the Three Hunters' camp; Gandalf will guess it was Saruman. III.2 The Riders of Rohan; III.5 The White Rider

Meanwhile: Gimli sees an old man at the edge of the Three Hunters' camp; on 1 Mar Gandalf guesses it was Saruman (III.2; III.5).

The sky: 'Bare and cloudless … the sunrise came. It was pale and clear. The wind was in the East and all the mists had rolled away; wide lands lay bleak about them in the bitter light.' By afternoon it is overcast, low grey cloud over the Wold and a mist shrouding the sun; at the camp under Fangorn 'the moon had set and the night was very dark' (III.2).

March 1, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Dead Marshes: Frodo begins the passage of the Dead Marshes at dawn; by night they see the corpse-candles and the faces of the dead. App. B; IV.2 The Passage of the Marshes
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Fangorn Forest: Aragorn, Legolas and Gimli find the hobbits' tracks and meet Gandalf the White; Shadowfax comes; they ride for Edoras through the night. App. B; III.5 The White Rider
• Merry & Pippin Derndingle: Entmoot continues; the hobbits wait with Quickbeam. App. B; III.4 Treebeard
• Gandalf the White Fangorn Forest: Gandalf reveals himself to the Three Hunters, tells of his return, and rides for Edoras on Shadowfax. App. B; III.5 The White Rider
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Edoras: Éomer reaches Edoras and is put in ward for threatening Wormtongue; Théoden sits bowed in Meduseld. III.6 The King of the Golden Hall
• Treebeard & the Ents Derndingle: Entmoot continues. App. B
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Ithilien: Faramir leaves Minas Tirith on an errand to Ithilien. App. B
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Isengard: Saruman readies his full strength in Isengard for the stroke against Rohan. III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam

The sky: Cold and clear over Rohan - 'under the cold moon they went on once more, as swift as by the light of day' - until 'the waxing moon sank into the cloudy West' (III.5). In the Marshes 'cold clammy winter still held sway': mists smoking off the pools, 'the reek of them … stifling in the still air', and after dark the corpse-candles (IV.2).

March 2, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam end of the Dead Marshes: Frodo comes to the end of the Marshes; a winged Nazgûl passes over by night - 'Wraiths on wings!' - and Gollum cowers. App. B; IV.2 The Passage of the Marshes
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Edoras: Riding into Edoras with Gandalf, Aragorn sees Théoden healed; he rides west with the King's host toward the Fords. App. B; III.6 The King of the Golden Hall
• Merry & Pippin Isengard (Nan Curunír), at night: Entmoot ends in the afternoon; the Ents march; Merry and Pippin ride on Treebeard and reach Nan Curunír at night. App. B; III.4 Treebeard
• Gandalf the White Edoras: Gandalf heals Théoden, frees Éomer, expels Wormtongue; rides west with the host, then leaves it at evening on Shadowfax. App. B; III.6; III.7 Helm's Deep
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Fords of Isen; Théoden on the West Road: Théoden leads the host west from Edoras; at the Fords Erkenbrand's Westfold force is broken in the Second Battle of the Fords of Isen. App. B; III.7 Helm's Deep; UT The Battles of the Fords of Isen
• Treebeard & the Ents Isengard: Entmoot ends; the Ents march down to Nan Curunír and reach Isengard at night, watching Saruman's army go out. App. B; III.4 Treebeard; III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Ithilien: Faramir and his Rangers in Ithilien. IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Fords of Isen: Saruman's full strength issues from Isengard: Erkenbrand is routed at the Fords; the army marches on Helm's Deep. App. B; III.7 Helm's Deep; III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam

The sky: At Edoras a storm out of the East - 'the sunlight was blotted out from the eastern windows; the whole hall became suddenly dark as night' - then slanting rain, and the storm 'rolling away southward to the sea' with a shaft of sun through the cloud. By night the Riders camp 'under the starry sky and the waxing moon' (III.6; III.7).

March 3, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Noman-lands, toward the Desolation: Frodo crosses the dead lands beyond the Marshes by night, hiding by day, toward the Morannon. IV.2 The Passage of the Marshes
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Helm's Deep / the Hornburg: The host turns for Helm's Deep; Saruman's army comes in the night; Aragorn holds the Deeping Wall with Éomer; Gimli and Legolas count kills. App. B; III.7 Helm's Deep
• Merry & Pippin Isengard: At Isengard the Ents tear down the walls; Merry and Pippin watch from the ring of stone. III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam
• Gandalf the White Nan Curunír: Gandalf rides to Isengard and confers with Treebeard; Huorns set out for Helm's Deep; he then gathers Erkenbrand's scattered men. III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam; III.7 Helm's Deep
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Helm's Deep / the Hornburg: Théoden retreats to Helm's Deep; the Battle of the Hornburg begins in the night amid storm. App. B; III.7 Helm's Deep
• Treebeard & the Ents Isengard: The Ents complete the destruction of Isengard, breaking the walls and turning the Isen to flood the ring. App. B; III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Ithilien: Faramir and his Rangers in Ithilien. IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Helm's Deep / the Hornburg: Saruman's Uruks and Dunlendings assault the Hornburg through the night; behind them Isengard is broken and Saruman shut in Orthanc. III.7 Helm's Deep; III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam

The sky: Night storm over Helm's Deep: thunder, lightning and rain as the assault begins (III.7).

March 4, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam edge of the Desolation of the Morannon: Frodo reaches the slag-mounds on the edge of the Desolation of the Morannon. App. B; IV.2 The Passage of the Marshes
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Fords of Isen: Dawn: Gandalf and Erkenbrand arrive; the Huorn-wood swallows the Orcs. Aragorn rides with Théoden toward Isengard, camping near the Fords of Isen. III.7 Helm's Deep; III.8 The Road to Isengard
• Merry & Pippin Isengard: Isengard lies flooded; the hobbits keep watch at the gates on Treebeard's orders, feasting on Saruman's stores. III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam
• Gandalf the White Fords of Isen: At dawn Gandalf brings Erkenbrand to the Hornburg; the enemy is destroyed. He and Théoden set out for Isengard, halting by the Fords at night. App. B; III.7 Helm's Deep; III.8 The Road to Isengard
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Fords of Isen: Victory at the Hornburg at dawn; Théoden buries the dead, then rides for Isengard with Gandalf, camping near the Fords. App. B; III.8 The Road to Isengard
• Treebeard & the Ents Isengard: The Ents drain the flood from Isengard; the Huorns return from Helm's Deep and pass Théoden's camp by night. III.8 The Road to Isengard; III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Ithilien: Faramir and his Rangers in Ithilien. IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Isengard: Saruman's army is destroyed; the Dunlendings surrender; Saruman and Wormtongue are besieged in Orthanc. III.7 Helm's Deep; III.9 Flotsam and Jetsam

The sky: The storm-wrack clears and the sun comes up on the victory at the Hornburg; that night, riding for Isengard, 'the slow moon mounted, now waxing towards the full, and in its cold silver light the swelling grass-lands rose and fell like a wide grey sea' (III.7; III.8).

March 5, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Morannon: Frodo hides in sight of the Morannon, chooses Gollum's secret way, and leaves southward at dusk. App. B; IV.3 The Black Gate is Closed
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Dol Baran: Théoden's company reaches Isengard at noon; after the parley with Saruman, Aragorn camps at Dol Baran. App. B; III.8; III.10; III.11 The Palantír
• Merry & Pippin Isengard, then Dol Baran: Merry and Pippin greet Théoden and Gandalf at Isengard's gate, feast with Aragorn; that night at Dol Baran Pippin takes the palantír. III.8 The Road to Isengard; III.11 The Palantír
• Pippin Dol Baran: At Dol Baran Pippin looks into the palantír and is questioned by Sauron; Gandalf rides off with him for Minas Tirith. App. B; III.11 The Palantír
• Gandalf the White Isengard, then Dol Baran: Gandalf parleys with Saruman, breaks his staff, receives the palantír; after Pippin's folly rides with him for Minas Tirith. App. B; III.10 The Voice of Saruman; III.11 The Palantír
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Isengard, then Dol Baran: Théoden reaches Isengard at noon, rejects Saruman's voice, and camps at Dol Baran; a winged Nazgûl passes over the camp. App. B; III.10 The Voice of Saruman; III.11 The Palantír
• Treebeard & the Ents Isengard: Treebeard receives Théoden and Gandalf and undertakes to keep Saruman in Orthanc. III.8 The Road to Isengard; III.10 The Voice of Saruman
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Ithilien: Faramir and his Rangers in Ithilien. IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Orthanc; Barad-dûr: Saruman refuses Gandalf and is cast from the Order; Wormtongue throws down the palantír; Sauron sees Pippin in the Stone and sends a Nazgûl. III.10 The Voice of Saruman; III.11 The Palantír

Meanwhile: The Nazgûl that Sauron sends toward Isengard passes over Dol Baran soon after Pippin looks in the Stone; Gandalf takes it for a messenger to Saruman (III.11).

The sky: Grey pale light and a reek over the Wizard's Vale; at the Morannon 'day came, and the fallow sun blinked over the lifeless ridges of Ered Lithui'. At evening, riding south, 'all the mists were gone, a chill wind blew', and the moon 'now waxing round, filled the eastern sky with a pale cold sheen' (III.8; IV.3; III.11).

March 6, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam northern Ithilien: Travelling by night southward along the western feet of the Ephel Dúath, Frodo enters Ithilien; rests by day. IV.4 Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Helm's Deep / the Hornburg: Overtaken in the early hours by Halbarad's Dúnedain and Elrond's sons; at the Hornburg Aragorn dares the Orthanc-stone, then sets out for Dunharrow. App. B; V.2 The Passing of the Grey Company
• Merry Helm's Deep / the Hornburg: At the Hornburg Merry offers his sword to Théoden and is made his esquire; rides with the King toward Harrowdale. V.2 The Passing of the Grey Company
• Pippin the plains of Rohan: Riding on Shadowfax across Rohan with Gandalf; they rest hidden by day and ride by night. V.1 Minas Tirith
• Gandalf the White the plains of Rohan: Gandalf rides east across Rohan with Pippin. V.1 Minas Tirith
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Helm's Deep / the Hornburg: Théoden sets out from the Hornburg for Harrowdale by the mountain roads; Erkenbrand is left to guard the Westfold. App. B; V.2 The Passing of the Grey Company
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Ithilien: Faramir and his Rangers in Ithilien. IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Barad-dûr: Sauron sees Aragorn in the Orthanc-stone and, fearing the heir of Elendil, hastens his stroke. V.2 The Passing of the Grey Company; V.9 The Last Debate

Meanwhile: At the Hornburg Aragorn wrenches the Orthanc-stone to his will and shows Sauron the sword of Elendil; Sauron hastens his stroke (V.2; V.9).

The sky: Before dawn over Rohan 'the sinking moon was obscured by a great sailing cloud'; by evening it is clear again, and in Ithilien 'the night became fine under star and round moon' (V.2; IV.4).

March 7, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Henneth Annûn: In Ithilien Sam stews rabbit; Faramir's Rangers ambush the Southrons; Frodo is taken blindfold to Henneth Annûn by evening. App. B; IV.4 Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit; IV.5 The Window on the West
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Dunharrow: The Grey Company rides through Rohan and comes to Dunharrow at nightfall; Éowyn receives them. App. B; V.2 The Passing of the Grey Company
• Merry mountain roads of the Westfold: Merry rides with Théoden's company by the mountain roads toward Harrowdale. V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Pippin the plains of Rohan: Riding east across Rohan with Gandalf. V.1 Minas Tirith
• Gandalf the White the plains of Rohan: Gandalf rides east across Rohan with Pippin. V.1 Minas Tirith
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim mountain roads of the Westfold: Théoden's company rides by hidden mountain paths toward Harrowdale; the muster gathers at Edoras and Dunharrow. V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Henneth Annûn: Faramir ambushes the Haradrim on the road north; an oliphaunt breaks loose; he questions Frodo at Henneth Annûn. IV.4 Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit; IV.5 The Window on the West
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Ithilien: A Southron host marching north through Ithilien to swell Sauron's strength is ambushed by Faramir's Rangers. IV.4 Of Herbs and Stewed Rabbit

The sky: Fair in Ithilien; at Henneth Annûn 'the level shafts of the setting sun behind beat upon' the falling water, 'and the red light was broken into many flickering beams of ever-changing colour'. Eastward over Rohan, Pippin sees 'the moon rising above the eastern shadows, now almost at the full' (IV.5; V.1).

March 8, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Ithilien, south of Henneth Annûn: Faramir releases Frodo with provisions; guided to the edge of the wood, they travel south with Gollum. App. B; IV.6 The Forbidden Pool; IV.7 Journey to the Cross-roads
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli the Stone of Erech: At daybreak Aragorn enters the Paths of the Dead; at midnight at the Stone of Erech he summons the Dead to follow. App. B; V.2 The Passing of the Grey Company
• Merry mountain roads of the Westfold: Merry rides with Théoden toward Harrowdale. V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Pippin Anórien: Pippin wakes on Shadowfax to see the beacons of Gondor blazing on the hills of Anórien. V.1 Minas Tirith
• Gandalf the White Anórien: Gandalf rides through Anórien under the lit beacons. V.1 Minas Tirith
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim mountain roads of the Westfold: Théoden's company continues toward Harrowdale. V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Henneth Annûn; Minas Tirith: Faramir lets Frodo go; Denethor lights the beacons and sends the Red Arrow to Rohan. IV.6 The Forbidden Pool; V.1 Minas Tirith; V.3 The Muster of Rohan

The sky: Full moon: at dawn from Henneth Annûn 'in the West the full moon was sinking, round and white'; that night the beacon-fires of Anórien burn red along the hilltops under a clear sky (IV.6; V.1).

March 9, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam under the Ephel Dúath, near the Morgul-road: Marching south, Frodo sees the darkness begin to flow out of Mordor; at dusk he reaches the Morgul-road. App. B; IV.7 Journey to the Cross-roads
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Calembel on Ciril: Aragorn sets out from Erech with the Dead behind him, rides through Lamedon and comes to Calembel on Ciril at sunset. App. B; V.2 The Passing of the Grey Company
• Merry Dunharrow: Merry rides with Théoden into Harrowdale and up to Dunharrow, where Éowyn waits; Hirgon brings the Red Arrow at night. V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Pippin Minas Tirith: At dawn Gandalf and Pippin reach Minas Tirith; Pippin swears service to Denethor and meets Beregond. App. B; V.1 Minas Tirith
• Gandalf the White Minas Tirith: Gandalf reaches Minas Tirith and warns Denethor; he foretells that there will be no dawn. App. B; V.1 Minas Tirith
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Dunharrow: Théoden comes to Dunharrow; the Red Arrow arrives; he resolves to ride for Gondor with the full muster. App. B; V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith; Faramir leaving Henneth Annûn: Faramir leaves Henneth Annûn; in the City, Forlong, Imrahil and the captains of the Outlands arrive with fewer men than hoped. App. B; V.1 Minas Tirith
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Barad-dûr: Darkness begins to flow out of Mordor over Gondor. App. B

Meanwhile: The Darkness is seen by Frodo under the Ephel Dúath (IV.7), by Gandalf and Pippin riding to the City (V.1), and at Dunharrow next morning (V.3).

The sky: By night a darkness flows west out of Mordor (App. B); Gandalf, back in Pippin's lodgings: 'The Darkness has begun. There will be no dawn' (V.1).

March 10, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Cross-roads, then Morgul Vale: Frodo passes the Cross-roads at sunset and sees the fallen king's crowned head; from Morgul Vale he watches the Witch-king's host set forth. App. B; IV.7 Journey to the Cross-roads; IV.8 The Stairs of Cirith Ungol
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Lamedon (the Ringló): Aragorn crosses the Ringló; word of the Grey King's coming empties the land before him. App. B; V.9 The Last Debate
• Merry Harrowdale, then Edoras: The Muster rides out of Harrowdale; at Edoras Théoden bids Merry stay; Dernhelm takes him up secretly. App. B; V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Dawnless Day. Pippin sees Faramir's company rescued by Gandalf beneath the walls, harried by Nazgûl. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Gandalf the White the Pelennor Fields: Gandalf rides out to save Faramir and his men from the Nazgûl on the Pelennor. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Harrowdale, then Edoras: The Dawnless Day. The Rohirrim ride from Harrowdale; at Edoras Théoden takes leave and the host rides east. App. B; V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Pelennor Fields: Faramir, retreating from Ithilien, is rescued outside the gates by Gandalf; that night he tells Denethor of Frodo. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Minas Morgul; also Cair Andros: An army from the Morannon takes Cair Andros and passes into Anórien; the Morgul-host issues under the Witch-king toward Osgiliath. App. B; IV.8 The Stairs of Cirith Ungol

Meanwhile: The Dawnless Day is lived through by every thread from Harrowdale to the Morgul Vale.

The sky: The Dawnless Day: no sunrise over Gondor, Rohan or Ithilien (App. B; IV.7; V.3; V.4).

March 11, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Cirith Ungol: Frodo, Sam and Gollum climb the Stairs of Cirith Ungol; Gollum visits Shelob, returns to find them asleep, and nearly repents. App. B; IV.8 The Stairs of Cirith Ungol
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Linhir on Gilrain: Aragorn reaches Linhir on the Gilrain, where Angbor of Lamedon holds the fords against Umbar and Harad; crosses into Lebennin. App. B; V.9 The Last Debate
• Merry the Folde and Fenmarch: The Rohirrim ride east through the Folde and the Fenmarch under the darkness; Merry rides before Dernhelm. V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Pippin watches Denethor send Faramir to hold Osgiliath. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Gandalf the White Minas Tirith: Gandalf counsels Denethor against sending Faramir to Osgiliath, in vain. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Folde and Fenmarch: Théoden's host rides east through the Folde and Fenmarch toward the Firienwood; Eastern Rohan is invaded from the north. App. B; V.3 The Muster of Rohan
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Osgiliath: Denethor sends Faramir to hold Osgiliath; he rides out with a small force. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman eastern Rohan (the Wold), from the north: Orcs of Dol Guldur invade eastern Rohan from the north; Sauron's forces make the first assault on Lórien. App. B

The sky: 'The next day came with a morning like a brown dusk' - the second day with no sunrise, the cloud out of Mordor standing over Ithilien, Gondor and Rohan; at night neither moon nor stars (App. B; V.3; V.4).

March 12, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Cirith Ungol: Gollum leads Frodo and Sam into Shelob's lair; in the tunnel Frodo holds up the Phial and they flee toward the cleft. App. B; IV.9 Shelob's Lair
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Lebennin: Aragorn drives the enemy across Lebennin toward Pelargir, the Dead sweeping all before them. App. B; V.9 The Last Debate
• Merry under Min-Rimmon: The Rohirrim camp under Min-Rimmon in Anórien. App. B
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Pippin in the Citadel in Denethor's service. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Gandalf the White the Causeway Forts: Gandalf rides out to the Causeway Forts to hearten the defenders and returns at nightfall with wounded: the Black Captain leads the assault. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim under Min-Rimmon: Théoden camps under Min-Rimmon; the beacon-hills stand dark under the gloom. App. B; V.5 The Ride of the Rohirrim
• Treebeard & the Ents eastern Rohan (the Wold / Limlight): The Ents defeat the invaders of eastern Rohan. App. B; VI.6 Many Partings
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Causeway Forts: The enemy crosses the River; Faramir falls back to the Causeway Forts on the Rammas. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Osgiliath: The Morgul-host under the Witch-king forces the crossing at Osgiliath and drives Faramir back to the Rammas. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor

The sky: The Darkness holds - day no lighter than night over Mordor's marches, Gondor, and the Rohirrim's road east; the beacon-hills about Min-Rimmon stand dark, and how far north and west the cloud reaches is not said (App. B; V.4; V.5).

March 13, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Tower of Cirith Ungol: Shelob stings Frodo; Sam drives her off, takes the Ring, then follows the Orcs who carry Frodo into the Tower. App. B; IV.10 The Choices of Master Samwise
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Pelargir: Aragorn reaches Pelargir and captures the fleet of Umbar; the Dead are released; men of Lebennin and Lamedon man the ships. App. B; V.9 The Last Debate
• Merry Drúadan Forest: The Rohirrim halt in Drúadan Forest; Ghân-buri-Ghân offers to guide them by the Stonewain Valley. App. B; V.5 The Ride of the Rohirrim
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Pippin watches Faramir borne in wounded; Denethor's despair begins. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Gandalf the White the Pelennor Fields: Gandalf and Imrahil ride out to cover the retreat from the Causeway; the wounded Faramir is carried in; the Pelennor is overrun. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Drúadan Forest: Théoden in Drúadan Forest; the Wild Men report the enemy holds the West Road. App. B; V.5 The Ride of the Rohirrim
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Pelennor Fields: The Rammas is breached; the Pelennor is overrun; Faramir, wounded by a Southron dart, is carried to the City; the siege begins. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman the Pelennor Fields: The Morgul-host overruns the Pelennor; Nazgûl swoop on the retreating men; siege lines are dug before the City. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor

The sky: Still no sun. Over the overrun Pelennor the only light is burning - fired steadings and siege-fires - with the red of Mordor low in the east; in Drúadan Forest the Wild Men move through a lightless day (V.4; V.5).

March 14, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Tower of Cirith Ungol: Sam finds Frodo in the Tower, returns the Ring, and the two escape past the Watchers with the Phial as a Nazgûl cries above. App. B; VI.1 The Tower of Cirith Ungol
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Anduin, between Pelargir and the Harlond: The captured fleet rows up Anduin against the stream; near midnight a wind from the Sea fills the sails. V.9 The Last Debate
• Merry the Grey Wood under Amon Dîn: Led by the Wild Men through the Stonewain Valley, the Rohirrim come by night to the Grey Wood under Amon Dîn. App. B; V.5 The Ride of the Rohirrim
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Pippin waits on Denethor as fire falls on the first circle; Denethor sits by Faramir. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Gandalf the White Minas Tirith: With Denethor withdrawn, Gandalf takes command of the defence and stands at the Gate. V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Grey Wood under Amon Dîn: The Rohirrim, led by the Wild Men, reach the Grey Wood; Elfhelm's scouts find the Rammas breached and the road open. App. B; V.5 The Ride of the Rohirrim
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: Minas Tirith is besieged; the first circle burns; Denethor abandons command; Grond is drawn up in the night. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman the Pelennor Fields: The Witch-king's host besieges the City; siege-engines hurl fire; Grond comes to the Gate before dawn. V.4 The Siege of Gondor

The sky: The heaviest day of the Darkness: fire falls into the first circle of Minas Tirith and its smoke lies red-lit over the Pelennor; the Rohirrim ride the Stonewain Valley by night with no star to steer by (V.4; V.5).

March 15, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Morgai (inner ridge of the Ephel Dúath): Frodo and Sam escape into Mordor and begin north along the Morgai; at morning a wind from the West breaks the darkness. App. B; VI.2 The Land of Shadow
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli the Pelennor Fields: At the Harlond Aragorn lands and unfurls Arwen's standard; the Pelennor is won; that night he heals Faramir, Éowyn and Merry. App. B; V.6 The Battle of the Pelennor Fields; V.8 The Houses of Healing
• Merry the Pelennor Fields: Merry stabs the Witch-king behind the knee as Éowyn slays him; Théoden dies; Merry wanders into the City and Pippin finds him. V.6 The Battle of the Pelennor Fields; V.8 The Houses of Healing
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Pippin runs for Gandalf and with Beregond saves Faramir from Denethor's pyre in Rath Dínen; at night he finds Merry. V.7 The Pyre of Denethor; V.8 The Houses of Healing
• Gandalf the White Minas Tirith: Gandalf faces the Witch-king in the broken Gate; the horns sound; he turns to save Faramir from the pyre; Denethor burns. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor; V.7 The Pyre of Denethor
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Pelennor Fields: At cockcrow the horns sound: Théoden charges and is slain under Snowmane; Éowyn kills the Witch-king; Éomer takes the kingship and fights on. App. B; V.5 The Ride of the Rohirrim; V.6 The Battle of the Pelennor Fields
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: In the early hours the Witch-king breaks the Gate; Denethor burns himself on a pyre; Imrahil takes command of the City. App. B; V.4 The Siege of Gondor; V.7 The Pyre of Denethor
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman the Pelennor Fields: The Witch-king breaks the Gate, then is slain on the field; Gothmog takes command; the host is destroyed between Rohan and the ships. App. B; V.6 The Battle of the Pelennor Fields

Meanwhile: “It was the morning of the fifteenth of March, and over the Vale of Anduin the Sun was rising above the eastern shadow, and the south-west wind was blowing. Théoden lay dying on the Pelennor Fields.” — Tolkien’s own cut between threads (VI.2), while the fleet on Anduin (V.9) and the Riders on the field (V.5) feel the same wind.

The sky: Before dawn the wind turns; a wind from the Sea drives back the Darkness and the sun rises over Gondor (V.5; V.6).

March 16, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Morgai (inner ridge of the Ephel Dúath): From the Morgai Frodo and Sam look out over the enemy's camps on Gorgoroth to Mount Doom and the Barad-dûr. App. B; VI.2 The Land of Shadow
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Aragorn's tents before the Gate: Debate of the commanders in Aragorn's tent: they resolve to march on the Morannon to draw Sauron's Eye from Frodo. App. B; V.9 The Last Debate
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry lies healed in the Houses of Healing; Pippin sits with him. V.8 The Houses of Healing; V.9 The Last Debate
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Pippin sits with Merry in the Houses of Healing; Legolas and Gimli come up into the City. V.9 The Last Debate
• Gandalf the White Aragorn's tents before the Gate: At the Last Debate Gandalf sets the strategy: the Ring-bearer's chance is the only hope; the Host must be Sauron's bait. V.9 The Last Debate
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Pelennor Fields: Éomer sits in the Debate; Théoden lies in state in the Citadel; Éowyn in the Houses of Healing. V.8 The Houses of Healing; V.9 The Last Debate
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: Faramir wakes healed and learns his father's fate; Imrahil sits in the Debate. V.8 The Houses of Healing; V.9 The Last Debate

The sky: The first clear morning: sun on Anduin and on 'the windy circles of the City', the air over the Pelennor still smoke-fouled. Eastward, from the Morgai, 'a great burning glow' under 'the billowing canopy that roofed in all the accursed land' (V.9; VI.2).

March 17, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Morgai (inner ridge of the Ephel Dúath): Frodo and Sam trudge north along the Morgai valley toward the Isenmouthe. VI.2 The Land of Shadow
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli the Pelennor Fields: The Host of the West gathers on the Pelennor. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry in the Houses of Healing. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin Minas Tirith: Pippin in the City, to march with the Guard of the Citadel. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White Minas Tirith: Gandalf in the City preparing the march. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Pelennor Fields: Éomer musters the Riders; Elfhelm's force is to ride into Anórien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: Faramir in the Houses of Healing; Imrahil musters Gondor's men. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Barad-dûr: Shagrat brings Frodo's cloak, mail-shirt and sword to the Barad-dûr. App. B

The sky: Over Gondor 'the weather of the world remained fair and the wind held in the west'; but eastward 'nothing could waft away the glooms and the sad mists that clung about the Mountains of Shadow', and the Morgai valley lies in the dull red-brown half-light that passes for day in Mordor (V.10; VI.2).

March 18, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam road from Durthang to the Isenmouthe: Frodo comes in sight of the Isenmouthe; on the road from Durthang an Orc-company overtakes them and drives them along in its ranks. App. B; VI.2 The Land of Shadow
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Osgiliath: The Host of the West, some seven thousand, marches from Minas Tirith and crosses at Osgiliath into Ithilien. App. B; V.9 The Last Debate; V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry Minas Tirith: Merry, still weak, stays in the City and watches the Host go. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin Osgiliath: Pippin marches with the Guard of the Citadel beside Beregond. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White Osgiliath: Gandalf rides with the Host from the City. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Osgiliath: Éomer rides with the Host; Elfhelm's Riders go into Anórien against the enemy there. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: Imrahil marches with the Host; Faramir remains as Steward in the Houses of Healing, Éowyn with him. V.10 The Black Gate Opens; VI.5 The Steward and the King
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman road from Durthang to the Isenmouthe: Orcs from Durthang under a slave-driver march to Udûn, sweeping the disguised hobbits along. VI.2 The Land of Shadow

The sky: Fair still, the wind holding in the west, as the Host marches out of Minas Tirith; ahead the glooms cling unmoved about the Mountains of Shadow, and on the road down from Durthang there is reek and no true daylight (V.10; VI.2).

March 19, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the Isenmouthe: In the crush where roads meet near the Isenmouthe, Frodo and Sam slip from the column and begin along the road toward the Barad-dûr. App. B; VI.2 The Land of Shadow
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Morgul Vale: The Host comes to the Cross-roads and the Morgul Vale; the bridge and fields are burned; the march turns north. App. B; V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry in the Houses of Healing. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin Morgul Vale: Pippin with the Host at the Morgul Vale. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White Morgul Vale: Gandalf with the Host at the Morgul Vale. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Morgul Vale: Éomer with the Host at the Morgul Vale. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Houses of Healing: Faramir and Éowyn in the Houses of Healing. VI.5 The Steward and the King
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Morgul Vale: Nazgûl shadow the Host from high above; Sauron makes no move at the Vale. V.10 The Black Gate Opens

The sky: Fair overhead, but the Morgul Vale lies under the mountains' own gloom; the Host burns the Morgul-fields and their smoke drifts down the valley past the Cross-roads (V.10).

March 20, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Plateau of Gorgoroth: Along the road toward the Barad-dûr across Gorgoroth, moving by night. VI.3 Mount Doom
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli North Ithilien road: Marching north through Ithilien; an ambush of Orcs and Easterlings is driven off. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry in the Houses of Healing. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin North Ithilien road: Pippin with the Host in North Ithilien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White North Ithilien road: Gandalf with the Host in North Ithilien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim North Ithilien road: Éomer with the Host in North Ithilien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Houses of Healing: Faramir and Éowyn in the Houses of Healing. VI.5 The Steward and the King

The sky: Fair weather and a west wind over North Ithilien, the mountains ahead still hooded in Mordor's mists; the old moon is spent and the nights give no light (V.10).

March 21, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Plateau of Gorgoroth: Along the road across Gorgoroth, moving by night. VI.3 Mount Doom
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli North Ithilien road: Marching north through Ithilien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry in the Houses of Healing. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin North Ithilien road: Pippin with the Host. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White North Ithilien road: Gandalf with the Host. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim North Ithilien road: Éomer with the Host. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Houses of Healing: Faramir and Éowyn in the Houses of Healing. VI.5 The Steward and the King

The sky: The same - clear world, clouded border - the gloom deepening ahead as the Host goes north, and the moon dark (V.10).

March 22, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Plateau of Gorgoroth: The dreadful nightfall: Frodo and Sam leave the road and turn south across Gorgoroth toward Mount Doom. App. B; VI.3 Mount Doom
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli North Ithilien, near the end of the living lands: The Host draws near the end of the living lands; Nazgûl hang high above; the gloom deepens. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry in the Houses of Healing. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin North Ithilien: Pippin with the Host. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White North Ithilien: Gandalf with the Host. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim North Ithilien: Éomer with the Host. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Houses of Healing: Faramir and Éowyn in the Houses of Healing. VI.5 The Steward and the King

Meanwhile: 'Then came at last a dreadful nightfall; and even as the Captains of the West drew near to the end of the living lands, the two wanderers came to an hour of blank despair' (VI.3).

The sky: 'Then came at last a dreadful nightfall': the gloom closes over the Host at the end of the living lands and over the two on Gorgoroth alike, and the new moon gives nothing (App. B; VI.3).

March 23, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Plateau of Gorgoroth: Frodo and Sam cast away their arms and gear; Frodo will bear no weapon; Sam keeps only Sting and the Phial. App. B; VI.3 Mount Doom
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli north end of Ithilien: The Host passes out of Ithilien; Aragorn dismisses the faint-hearted, sending them to retake Cair Andros. App. B; V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry in the Houses of Healing. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin north end of Ithilien: Pippin with the Host as it leaves Ithilien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White north end of Ithilien: Gandalf with the Host as it leaves Ithilien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim north end of Ithilien: Éomer with the Host as it leaves Ithilien. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Houses of Healing: Faramir and Éowyn in the Houses of Healing. VI.5 The Steward and the King
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman the Morannon: Sauron withdraws his forces behind the Morannon; the land before the Host lies empty. V.10 The Black Gate Opens

The sky: Out of green Ithilien into the barren dark: fair sky behind, and ahead an unbroken lid of cloud over the Ephel Dúath and the Morannon, reddened underneath by Orodruin (V.10; VI.3).

March 24, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam the feet of Mount Doom: Their last journey: crawling, then Sam carrying Frodo, they reach the feet of Mount Doom. App. B; VI.3 Mount Doom
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli Desolation of the Morannon: The Host camps in the Desolation of the Morannon within sight of the Black Gate. App. B; V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Merry the Houses of Healing: Merry in the Houses of Healing. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Pippin Desolation of the Morannon: Pippin with the Host in the Desolation of the Morannon. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White Desolation of the Morannon: Gandalf with the Host in the Desolation of the Morannon. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim Desolation of the Morannon: Éomer with the Host in the Desolation of the Morannon. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil the Houses of Healing: Faramir and Éowyn in the Houses of Healing. VI.5 The Steward and the King
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman the Morannon: Sauron's host waits hidden behind the Morannon; the Nazgûl watch the Captains from above. V.10 The Black Gate Opens

The sky: In the Desolation of the Morannon 'the waxing moon was four nights old, there were smokes and fumes that rose out of the earth and the white crescent was shrouded in the mists of Mordor' (V.10).

March 25, T.A. 3019

• Frodo & Sam Mount Doom: Frodo and Sam reach the Sammath Naur; Frodo claims the Ring; Gollum bites it off and falls into the Fire; the Ring is destroyed. App. B; VI.3 Mount Doom
• Aragorn, Legolas & Gimli the Slag-hills before the Morannon: The Host is surrounded on the Slag-hills; the Mouth of Sauron parleys; battle is joined; the Eagles come; Barad-dûr falls and Sauron passes. App. B; V.10 The Black Gate Opens; VI.4 The Field of Cormallen
• Merry Minas Tirith: Merry in the City when the Shadow departs. VI.5 The Steward and the King
• Pippin the Slag-hills before the Morannon: Pippin kills a hill-troll and is crushed beneath it, hearing 'The Eagles are coming!' as he loses consciousness. V.10 The Black Gate Opens
• Gandalf the White the Slag-hills, then Mount Doom: Gandalf refuses the Mouth of Sauron's terms; after the Downfall Gwaihir bears him to Mount Doom to rescue Frodo and Sam. V.10 The Black Gate Opens; VI.4 The Field of Cormallen
• Théoden, Éomer & the Rohirrim the Slag-hills before the Morannon: Éomer stands with the Host on the Slag-hills through the battle and the Downfall of Barad-dûr. V.10 The Black Gate Opens; VI.4 The Field of Cormallen
• Gondor: Denethor, Faramir, Imrahil Minas Tirith: On the walls Faramir and Éowyn feel the earth tremble and see the Shadow rise and blow away; the Eagle brings the tidings. VI.5 The Steward and the King
• The Enemy: Sauron, the Nazgûl, Saruman Barad-dûr: The Downfall of Barad-dûr; Sauron's spirit rises as a shadow and is blown away; the Nazgûl perish in the fire of Orodruin. App. B; VI.4 The Field of Cormallen

Meanwhile: The towers of the Morannon fall before the Host (V.10; VI.4) as the Ring goes into the Fire (VI.3); in Minas Tirith Faramir and Éowyn feel the tremor and see the Shadow rise and blow away (VI.5).

The sky: As Barad-dûr falls, a great wind out of the West tears the Shadow apart and the sun shines (VI.4; VI.5).